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If the words “old man take a look at my life, I’m a lot like you” define the early days of Neil Young’s solo career, the words “it’s better to burn out, than to fade away” would define the rest of his career going forward. These words would be released to the public in 1979 on his landmark record “Rust Never Sleeps,” and would be featured on the opening and closing tracks of the album, the mirrored “My My, Hey Hey (Out of the Blue)” and “Hey Hey, My My (Into the Black).”

Going into 1979, Young was beginning to grow anxious over the fading relevance of his career. Music was drastically changing, becoming a more electronically dominated space with sleek, digital production. He was still the folk rock guy, and hadn’t really been able to shake the label 1972’s “Harvest” had stamped on him. As often happens though, the times changed and the rapid digitization of everything gave Young the perfect opportunity to strike true with “Rust Never Sleeps,” an album that utterly revived Young’s career, and made him a massive influence on an unlikely new genre that would be coming ten years later: grunge.

From both a songwriting and musicianship standpoint Neil Young is frequently attributed as the “godfather of grunge,” with the sensitive songwriting of the first half of the album combining with the massive, sludgy, overdriven guitars of the second half laying the ground work for what would become the dominant rock movement of the ’90s. Maybe the most central part of that mythology is the pair of tracks that bookend the record, as Nirvana front man Kurt Cobain would go on to quote the lyric “it’s better to burn out than to fade away” in his suicide note.

The influence these two tracks had on grunge has always tied Young to the genre, and upon learning that Cobain quoted his song in that fateful note, he dedicated his 1994 album “Sleeps With Angels” to Cobain.

This level of influence on a fledgling genre, as well as a signature sound that heavily contrasted the trends of the era completely resurrected Young’s career, and gave him a wealth of new influence that would help carry his career through the coming decades. “Rust Never Sleeps” will forever be the record that saved Neil Young, and birthed grunge music.

Related: 1972 Folk Classic, Written as a Tribute to Jimi Hendrix, Is One of Music’s Most Tragic Songs

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Howard Kaylan was just 18 years old when he and the rest of the Turtles decided to take on one of Bob Dylan’s songs. After seeing what the Byrds did with “Mr. Tambourine Man,” the young band figured they could have their own Dylan hit. 

Kaylan told HNGN that “It Ain’t Me Babe” clicked with him because he picked up on something in the 1964 folk song that other people seemed to miss. 

“I said, ‘If The Byrds could have a Dylan hit, why wouldn’t we be able to have a Dylan hit?’ That one spoke to me louder than any of the other (Dylan songs) stylistically,” he recalled. “The difference was interpretation. We didn’t hear ‘It Ain’t Me Babe’ like everybody else. I heard the song from a teenager’s point of view, and it wasn’t a plaintive song, it was an angry song, you know, ‘How dare you?’

Kaylan already had a specific sound in mind for the Turtles’ version. He wanted to take some cues from The Zombies.

“I was so in love with Colin Blunstone‘s voice and Rod Argent‘s arrangements, and I loved the idea of taking, like, ‘She’s Not There,’ a very mystical verse, and tying the song together with a 4-4 (time signature), major resolution chorus, because there was a little musical release. We did the exact same thing with ‘It Ain’t Me Babe.’ Stole their idea totally.”

Their approach clearly worked. The Turtles’ 1965 version of “It Ain’t Me Babe” shot up to No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100, turning the young Los Angeles group into a rising name.

The song became the lead single from the Turtles’ debut studio album, also titled It Ain’t Me Babe. Released in October 1965 through White Whale Records, the album mixed covers of songs by other artists with material the band had worked on back when they were still in high school. 

The album itself reached No. 98 on the Billboard 200, with the follow-up single “Let Me Be” climbing to No. 29. And while Dylan’s own recording of “It Ain’t Me Babe” appeared on his 1964 album Another Side of Bob Dylan, it was not released as a U.S. single.

The success also gave Kaylan an unexpected opportunity to meet the songwriter himself. At the time, the Turtles were the house band at L.A.’s Whisky A Go Go, and the Young Rascals had their own regular spot at The Phone Booth in New York. The two groups switched gigs for a week, giving the Turtles their New York debut with “It Ain’t Me Babe” fresh off its release. 

Dylan was among the notable guests at the band’s first show at The Phone Booth. The Turtles closed their set with “It Ain’t Me Babe,” and Kaylan said Dylan appeared to be less than impressed during much of the performance.

“Everything changed. We had to show this guy that we could really deliver his song and there was a reason we had a hit record. . . .,” he recalled. “We noticed, however, that during the course of the show that Bob was seething and not really paying much attention to the band or his food or anything. By the time we left the stage, he had pretty much passed out at the table.” 

Kaylan said the band members eventually filed past Dylan, with him being the last to greet the singer-songwriter. 

“He was not lucid at the time at all. He was really out of it. He said, ‘That was a great song you did at the end there, that was really, really good, that’s the stuff you should be recording. I don’t know what that was, but it was really, really good, man.’”

Kaylan recalled that Dylan shook his hand before passing out into his plate of pasta, staying there until someone eventually “lifted up his head and wiped his face off.”

That memorable night was just the beginning for the Turtles. The band went on to score several more Top 40 hits, including “You Baby,” “Happy Together,” “She’d Rather Be With Me,” “Elenore,” and “You Showed Me.” “Happy Together” became their biggest hit, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Related: 1964 Folk Song, Written by Bob Dylan, Launched a 19-Year-Old Singer’s Solo Career

If childhood had an official drink, it would be Starbucks’ Unicorn Frappuccino, a blend that looks like My Little Pony meets a Jem and the Holograms doll. And now, the famously colorful drink is coming back.

Starbucks announced that the Unicorn Frappuccino will return to coffeehouses around the world beginning Aug. 15 but only for one weekend.

Even better for fans who remember the original, Starbucks is bringing back the 2017 recipe, meaning the sweet-and-tart drink will be just as colorful (and transformative) as you remember.

The frozen beverage features creamy mango flavors, tangy blue drizzle, whipped cream and pink-and-blue topping. And there’s still a little magic involved: Swirling the drink reveals its color-changing effect and transforms its flavors.

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The internet-breaking beverage first went viral back in 2017, sparking long lines and social media frenzy nationwide, and it’s continued to pop up in unexpected places since, including a surprise appearance at Coachella earlier this year. This time around, Starbucks is leaning fully into nostalgia, encouraging fans to embrace the fantasy too. *Customers are invited to show up in their brightest colors, sparkles, and most whimsical unicorn-inspired looks to celebrate the drink’s comeback.

The drink will be available in one size, grande (16 ounces), with limited customization options to help Starbucks keep up with the expected demand.

And this isn’t just a U.S. comeback. The Unicorn Frappuccino will return to Starbucks locations across the United States, Canada, Mexico, Asia Pacific, Europe, and the Middle East and North Africa.

So if you’ve been waiting years to relive your 2017 Unicorn Frappuccino era, mark your calendar: the magical drink returns Aug. 15 for one weekend only.

On the latest episode of The Challenge season 42, the teams were given a fun challenge that was both physical and also kind of a puzzle.

The elimination decision was a little surprising and it was followed up by an absolute beat-down in the arena. Plus, there was some weird romantic drama.

Related: Who Wins ‘The Challenge: Cutthroat’? Season 42 Spoilers, Eliminations, Disqualifications and Finalists

SPOILER ALERT: There are spoilers ahead for the first two episodes of The Challenge: Cutthroat, so don’t keep reading if you don’t want to be spoiled.

Who Went Home on ‘The Challenge’ Season 42 Last Night? Brad Fiorenza

Jonne Roriz/Paramount+

Brad Fiorenza, 45 (veteran)

Related: How Old Are Johnny Bananas, CT Tamburello, Cara Maria and Brad Fiorenza From ‘The Challenge’?

Advancing Contestants on ‘The Challenge: Cutthroat’ Adrienne Naylor, 29 (veteran)
Alexis “Lete,” 29 (rookie)
Anna Leigh Wilson, 30 (rookie)
Cara Maria Sorbello, 40 (veteran)
Cassidy Clark, 30 (veteran)
Chris “CT” Tamburello, 45 (veteran)
Chris Underwood, 33 (veteran)
Cory Wharton, 34 (veteran)
Deb Chubb, 29 (rookie)
Isabella “Izzy” Fairthorne, 26 (veteran)
Johnny “Bananas” Devenanzio, 44 (veteran)
Josh Goldstein, 29 (rookie)
Justin Hinsley, 26 (veteran)
Keanu Soto, 33 (rookie)
Leonardo “Leo” Dionicio, 24 (veteran)
Michele Fitzgerald, 35 (veteran)
Nelson Thomas, 37 (veteran)
Nurys Mateo, 31 (veteran)
Sydney Segal, 30 (veteran)
Victoria “Tori” Deal, 32 (veteran)
Will Gagnon, 29 (veteran)

Related: Where Was ‘The Challenge’ Season 42 Filmed? Here’s Every Location Featured in ‘Cutthroat’

What Were the Challenges on ‘Cutthroat’ Episode 3?

The team challenge this week tasked the teams with getting six players across a waterway, swapping three on one side and three on the other to each other’s starting positions. It was tricky in that they had to be strategic in using the one cut-out area where a boat could get out of the way, plus the boats they were paddling were basically giant saucers that were fairly unstable.

The Orange Team won and they didn’t even have to cheat this time! The Gray Team came in second and the Blue Team lost (again).

When it came time to vote for the two options for the arena, the Gray Team put up Keanu (captain’s choice) and Leo (team vote, which came down to a tie and Nurys had to break the tie). The Orange Team chose to put Keanu into the arena, which he was totally fine with because he’s a rookie and he understood that’s how it goes. Weirdly, the Orange Team then also decided to put Brad Fiorenza into the arena from the Blue Team, which did not seem like a great choice if the vets were trying to protect each other.

Related: ‘The Challenge’ Season 42: Cast, Premiere Date, Trailer and More

They were definitely not going to pick Nelson, but they certainly could have picked Josh, who is also a rookie. But it turns out that Bananas knows Josh from outside the show, so they threw Brad to the wolf that is Keanu and Keanu absolutely smoked him in the wall-climbing challenge Winning Numbers. It was actually pretty painful to watch, even knowing that Brad, who is 13 years older than Keanu and did not play college football, was probably going to have a hard time on this one.

So, that’s two male veteran players gone and one female rookie. The new captains are:

Blue Team: Cara Marie and Nelson
Gray Team: Cassidy and Leo
Orange Team: Izzy and Will

Related: How to Watch ‘The Challenge: Cutthroat’ Season 42: Streaming, Premiere Date and Time

Meanwhile, this just in from the Stupid Romance Drama department. Adrienne and Josh make out, fine. But then the next night, after Adrienne gets up from sitting by Josh, Nurys sits down and they start talking. Apparently, Nurys and Josh know each other from outside the show. It looked completely innocuous—like two friends having a “Hey, how’s it going?” conversation. Josh had his arm around the back of the chair, but not like around Nurys’ shoulders.

Anyway, from the way Adrienne reacted, you would’ve thought Josh and Nurys had sex right there on the pool deck. She lost her ever-loving mind over something so stupid that Nurys and Josh were both caught completely flat-footed. It was insane. Completely bonkers.

Related: ‘The Challenge’ Star Reilly Smedley Reveals the Misunderstood Rule That Sent Her Home (Exclusive)

But now Adrienne is out for blood regarding them both? It’s unclear how this will manifest itself moving forward, but let’s be clear—Adrienne really showed her butt in this situation. It was absolutely baffling. I even watched it back in case I missed something. But I did not. This was the very definition of making a mountain out of a mole hill.

The Challenge: Cutthroat season 42 premieres Wednesday, August 5 at 3 a.m. ET/12 a.m. PT on Paramount+ with two back-to-back episodes. Subsequent new episodes drop every Wednesday at the same time.

Related: ‘The Challenge’ Star Cedric Hodges Reveals the Unseen Argument That Helped Send Him Home (Exclusive)

Fans of classic Southern rock have another chance to see one of the genre’s most recognizable bands onstage this year.

38 Special, the band behind enduring hits including “Hold On Loosely” and “Caught Up in You,” has added more dates to its 2026 touring schedule, extending its run into November.

Current listings show the band scheduled to perform across the U.S. through at least Nov. 7, with newly listed stops including Reno, Nevada; Duluth, Minnesota; Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin; and Kansas City, Missouri.

The ongoing run is part of 38 Special’s 50 Year Legacy Tour, celebrating a remarkable five decades of music.

38 Special Is Still Bringing Its Hits on the Road

The band’s current schedule is packed with opportunities to hear the songs that made 38 Special a staple of classic-rock radio.

Among the group’s best-known songs are “Hold On Loosely,” “Caught Up in You,” “Rockin’ Into the Night,” “If I’d Been the One,” “Back Where You Belong” and “Second Chance.” The band has sold more than 20 million records and continues to perform regularly.

And “Hold On Loosely” remains one of the group’s signature songs. The 1981 hit has become so closely associated with 38 Special that it remains a regular part of the band’s live set, the song currently appears as the closing number of its encore on recent setlists.

For fans who haven’t seen the band in years (or who have discovered its music more recently) the extended schedule offers plenty of opportunities to catch the group live.

The 2026 Tour Runs Into November

The newly expanded schedule includes a series of fall shows after the band’s summer dates. Among the currently listed performances are:

• Sept. 4: Nashville, Indiana
• Sept. 5: Waukee, Iowa
• Sept. 18: Loveland, Colorado, with Lynyrd Skynyrd
• Sept. 19: Colorado Springs, Colorado, with Lynyrd Skynyrd
• Oct. 2: Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania
• Oct. 9: Biloxi, Mississippi
• Oct. 23: Rancho Mirage, California
• Oct. 29: Napa, California
• Oct. 30: Lincoln, California, with Foreigner
• Oct. 31: Fresno, California
• Nov. 1: Reno, Nevada
• Nov. 5: Duluth, Minnesota
• Nov. 6: Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin
• Nov. 7: Kansas City, Missouri

The band is also scheduled to appear at the Illinois State Fair in Springfield on Aug. 17 for a free grandstand concert. Dates and venues can change, so fans should check the latest listings before making plans.

38 Special Has Been Touring for 50 Years

38 Special was formed in 1974 in Jacksonville, Florida, by Don Barnes and Donnie Van Zant. Over the following decades, the band developed a sound that blended Southern rock with the polished hooks of arena rock.

The group has remained remarkably active. Current concert listings note that 38 Special continues to play around 100 shows a year, even as the band celebrates its 50th anniversary.

The band’s 2026 touring year also follows the release of Milestone, its first studio album in more than 20 years. The album arrived as part of the group’s 50th-anniversary celebration and features collaborations with musicians including Pat Monahan of Train, Randy Bachman and Jim Peterik.

RELATED: 1988 Journey Album Has Spent More Than 900 Weeks on the Billboard 200

Audrey Hepburn’s famously tiny frame became one of her defining features, but her son says the reason behind her size has less to do with an eating disorder than with the trauma and starvation she endured as a teenager during World War II.

For decades, Hepburn’s slender figure prompted speculation that she suffered from an eating disorder. But in his biography of his mother, Intimate Audrey, Sean Hepburn Ferrer pushes back against those rumors, saying she ate what she liked, carefully managed her portions and remained highly active. Her relationship with food, however, had been forever altered years earlier, when the future actress nearly starved to death during the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands.

“Despite decades of gossip that she had an eating disorder because she was so slim, she cooked and baked and ate what she liked but was careful with portions. She started most days with a boiled egg, toast, and jam. She walked every day, setting a punishing pace for those of us trailing behind,” Ferrer wrote, via People.

He continued, “For lunch, she’d have a salad or a soup, a sandwich, and a scoop of her favorite vanilla ice cream with maple syrup. She drank the occasional beer, and after her daily nap, she’d have a square of dark chocolate — her ‘cure for the blues’ —followed by a ‘finger’ of whisky when the sun set. Supper would be a single plate of pasta pomodoro and a salad.”

Hepburn’s extreme thinness had roots in the deprivation she experienced during the 1944-45 “Hunger Winter” in Nazi-occupied Netherlands. As her younger son, Luca Dotti, wrote in Dutch Girl: Audrey Hepburn and World War II, she came dangerously close to death as food became increasingly scarce and people around her died from hunger. Her family was also forced to shelter for days or weeks at a time as bombing intensified, making an already desperate shortage of food even worse.

“By the end of the war, she was very close to death… She was almost 5’ 6” and weighed 88 lbs,” Dotti told People. “She had jaundice and edema. She suffered from anemia the rest of her life, possibly as a consequence.”

The experience left Hepburn severely malnourished at a critical stage of her development, and the effects followed her into adulthood. Her son Sean has previously explained that the lack of nutrition and training during the war also ended Hepburn’s dream of becoming a prima ballerina.

The concept of a “power ballad” really took shape in the ’80s and has remained a staple in rock and roll ever since. Loudwire cited several sources that regard Styx‘s 1973 hit “Lady” as the first true power ballad, but it was bands with hits like Whitesnake‘s “Is This Love” and Guns N’ Roses‘ “November Rain” that really defined the genre.

One undeniably strong and pioneering power ballad is Journey‘s “Open Arms,” written by Jonathan Cain. However, Cain began working on the song in 1979 while he was still with The Babys.

Related: 1955 Pioneer Rock Hit, Loved by David Bowie, Was Written in a Greyhound Bus Kitchen

The Backstory of How “Open Arms” Became Journey’s Top Single

The story goes that he presented it to the group and the band’s frontman, none other than John Waite, was not impressed. In fact, he called it “sentimental rubbish” and saw no future for the song. Fast forward to 1980: when Cain joined Journey, he presented it to frontman Steve Perry, who loved it. The pair had trouble convincing the rest of the band at first because it was so far off from their typical sound.

Cain and Perry’s perseverance paid off—“Open Arms” became their highest-charting single, peaking at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and spending 18 weeks on the charts.

Band member Neal Schon thinks Waite was still resentful of the fact that Cain left his band for Journey.

“John Waite was really pissed off that I grabbed Jonathan for Journey after The Babys opened for us in 1980,” Schon said, according to MusicRadar. “I became good friends with Jonathan on that tour. I’d watched him from afar and I admired him as a band player.”

“I saw that he was really like glue to The Babys. The way he played, he glued everything together in that band. He played keyboards and he played guitar – he was just a solid person in the band,” Schon continued. “So when Gregg Rolie decided that he’d had enough of the road and wanted to bow out and go have a family life, Jonathan was my first pick to replace Gregg. And I think John Waite, for whatever reason, has always resented Jonathan for leaving The Babys to join us.”

Waite himself later succumbed to the allure of the power ballad. In 1984, his own solo track called “Missing You” topped the charts and propelled his career forward.

Rock and roll’s biggest lesson? Always keep an open mind—you never know what kind of massive success it could bring.

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Spending most of your time at the beach this summer? We are too, which is why we like to keep the calming oceanside vibes alive at home with coastal-inspired pieces. The coastal-chic trend is currently trending on Amazon, with an entire collection dedicated to charming beach-inspired decor. One of our favorite styles from the collection is the Linfye Starfish Ceramic Jewelry Dish Tray, which is on sale now.

The tray costs just $10, and is marked as Amazon’s Choice. Over 700 customers have already shopped for the piece in the past month, which means it’s in high demand — so you’ll want to add it to your cart sooner rather than later! The tray is 5.5 inches long, 5.5 inches wide, and 1.38 inches tall, so it’s perfect for small areas. 

Linfye Starfish Ceramic Jewelry Dish Tray, From $10 (was $11) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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The starfish trinket tray is being sold in four other coastal shapes, including three types of shells and another starfish with smaller dimensions and a lid. The maximum price is just $16, so you can even purchase a few different shapes to create a small collection. The ceramic piece has a smooth-glazed surface that’s intended to safeguard your jewelry from scratches. 

The material also makes the piece easy to clean, you just have to wipe it down and dust it every now and then. What we love about the design is how realistic it looks, as the outer portion is textured to resemble the starfish in a white hue, while the pale blue hue painted on the inside mimics the ocean’s coloring. It has so many uses aside from holding accessories, as you can place it in your entryway to hold your keys, and on your coffee table for spare matchboxes. 

Reviewers described the “darling” style as “absolutely adorable,” “very roomy,” “beautiful,” and “unique.” Another customer said that they are “well-made, very cute, and a classy way to bring the coastal vibe indoors.” Due to the affordable price and sleek design, it also makes for a great gift for loved ones. 

Shop More Deals 

• Collective Home Ceramic Jewelry Tray, $10 (was $12) at Amazon
• Pokini 12-Piece Ceramic Plates and Bowls Set, $56 (was $70) at Amazon
• Lifestylo Ceramic Vintage Vase Set, $16 (was $30) at Amazon

Shoppers are running to shop this gorgeous starfish trinket tray, and you should too. It’ll bring your coastal-chic decor to completion at an unbeatable cost. Take advantage of the $10 sale now at Amazon! 

Related: Amazon Has Podiatrist-Approved $33 Slide Sandals That Feel ‘Like a Cloud’ With ‘Great Arch Support’

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When Brian Wilson went into the studio in early 1966, he wasn’t trying to write an epic rock anthem.

Instead, he crafted a track that clocks in at just about three minutes flat, a brief window of sound that somehow managed to redefine modern pop music. The Pet Sounds song packs groundbreaking French horn arrangements, harpsichords, and what many music historians consider the single greatest vocal melody ever recorded.

U Discover Music recently highlighted “God Only Knows” as one of the finest pop songs under three minutes long. The iconic 1966 track was ranked alongside 50 of the industry’s most essential classics.

“God Only Knows” clocks in at exactly two minutes 53 seconds. Although the list is not ranked numerically, the Brian Wilson and Tony Asher classic is listed at No. 2 behind Martha Reeves & The Vandellas‘ “Dancing In The Street” and ahead of Queen‘s “Crazy Little Thing Called Love.”

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When The Beach Boys released “God Only Knows” in July 1966, it actually came out as the B-side to “Wouldn’t It Be Nice.” The A-side quickly became a smash, peaking at No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100, while “God Only Knows” stalled at No. 39.

Of course, chart position rarely tells the whole story, and the B-side went on to become a classic. Decades later, music critics, fellow artists, and historians widely consider the tune to be Wilson’s ultimate masterpiece.

“God Only Knows” debuted on the Billboard Hot 100, 60 years ago, on August 13, 2026. It spent eight weeks on the chart and reached a peak position of No. 39.

Even though the song never topped the charts hasn’t diminished its impact on the industry. It continues to rank as one of the best in modern music.

CBS News listed “God Only Knows” on its list of tunes which comprise an Essential American Songbook. Rolling Stone ranked the tune at No. 11 in its Greatest Songs of All Time list.

In an interview posted to his official Facebook page, Wilson discussed the backstory of creating the modern pop music masterpiece. He knew when it was done that the song was something special.

“‘God Only Knows’ took me and Tony an hour to write,” Wilson explained. He continued, “It came very fast. It came just like that.”

The Beach Boys leader added, “We were astonished by it. We have a classic song on our hands. I almost got tears. It was a beautiful tune we had written together.”

Musicians from across generations praised Wilson’s artistry. Paul McCartney, Bono, Barry Gibb, Pete Townsend, and John Lennon have all expressed admiration for the track.

Six decades later, “God Only Knows” stands as proof that true musical brilliance doesn’t need high chart numbers or long runtimes. It just takes three perfect minutes.

Related: The Beach Boys Most Romantic Song Was Written in Less Than 1 Hour

Which kind of pet matches your personality best, according to your birth date? Numerology and astrology may reveal the answer. Having a pet is one of the most fulfilling experiences you can have, largely due to the special bond that develops between you. Owning a pet shows us the value of routine and the kind of unconditional love that lasts, no matter how much time passes. And while we can find resonance with a variety of different animals, there’s most likely a kind of pet you’re able to bond deeply with, based on your cosmic personality traits.

Which Pet Should You Have, According to Your Birth Date?

Find your birth date; disregard birth months. 

Born on the 1st, 10th, 19th, 28th – Your Perfect Pet: Golden Retriever

Warm, sociable, and highly trainable, the popular Golden Retriever is the ideal companion for those born on dates ruled by the Sun. You’ll enjoy walking around with this friendly dog, known for easily making friends. You’ll also love this dog’s intelligence—and let’s dare to say, cleaning up after its heavy shedding. 

Born on the 2nd, 11th, 20th, 29th – Your Perfect Pet: African Pygmy Hedgehog 

Solitary, nocturnal, and exotic, the hedgehog may not be cuddly, but it is one of the quietest animals that can be domesticated. While they are a great fit for those looking for an independent companion, they do require maintenance and specialized attention. With your birth date ruled by the nurturing Moon, you’re sure to form a sweet bond with this extraordinary mammal. 

NEXT: These 4 Birth Dates Are the Most Honest, Reliable People You’ll Meet

Born on the 3rd, 12th, 21st, 30th – Your Perfect Pet: Horse 

If you were born on a date ruled by Jupiter, you like everything big, including your pets! If you happen to have the luxury of space, you may enjoy spending time in nature riding your horse. Besides all the riding and exploratory fun, you may enjoy the challenge and long-term emotional commitment it requires to get close to these special animals. 

Born on the 4th, 13th, 22nd, 31st – Your Perfect Pet: The Birman Cat

If you were born on a date ruled by Uranus, you may prefer somewhat rare pets. With deep blue eyes and signature white paws, the Birman cat is the royalty of cats. At times, you’ll want to play and have fun. But at other times, you’ll love to cuddle with this stocky-built furry bestie, which requires easier care to stay pretty due to its silky, low-shedding texture. 

Born on the 5th, 14th, 23rd – Your Perfect Pet: Rabbit

Initially chill but highly social once it feels comfortable, the rabbit is the ideal companion for those born on dates ruled by the swift planet Mercury. This furry ball loves to eat continuously, especially fresh vegetables from the garden. Once the rabbit is well-established in their new home, they are bound to show the fun and quirky side of their personality. 

Born on the 6th, 15th, 24th – Your Perfect Pet – Guinea Pig

Sweet and cuddly, but high-maintenance, the Guinea Pig requires an owner with a lot of energy and devotion to spare. Those born on a date ruled by the loving planet Venus have what it takes to sustain their furry bestie’s constant cleaning and grooming needs. In return, the Guinea Pig gives back endless amounts of cuteness to their owners once trust has been built.

RELATE?: 4 Birth Months That Love the Hardest

Born on the 7th, 16th, 25th – Your Perfect Pet: Betta Fish or Goldfish

If you are born on a date ruled by watery Neptune, you need a pet that is both low maintenance and still a little magical. The initial setup requires work, but once it’s done, you can count on this sweet pet’s company when coming home after a long day. Either one, the Betta Fish or the Goldfish, is bound to add color and happiness to your life. 

Born on the 8th, 17th, 26th – Your Perfect Pet: Red-Eared Slider Turtle

Slow-moving on land, but a super-fast watery swimmer, the turtle is the perfect pet for the masterful souls born on dates ruled by Saturn. You will enjoy building the ideal ecosystem for this loving companion to thrive. While they aren’t necessarily affectionate by touch, they tend to live for many years. 

Born on the 9th, 18th, 27th – Your Perfect Pet: Reptile

Not everyone is apt for having reptiles as pets, except for the bold souls born on dates ruled by Mars. You may love how low-maintenance these animals can be. Once they are settled in the correct environment, it’s easy to enjoy watching these fascinating beings eat insects. 

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On August 12, 1991, Metallica released their self-titled Black album, introducing fans to a more mainstream sound after four previous thrash metal albums.

The 1991 album featured some of the band’s  biggest hits, including “Enter Sandman” and “Nothing Else Matters.” But “The Unforgiven” was another notable classic from the album, and its powerful message still resonates with fans 35 years later.

Written by James Hetfield, Lars Ulrich, and Kirk Hammett, “The Unforgiven” features a country-western-infused acoustic opener that builds into a haunting and atmospheric melody,  leading to Hammett’s legendary “finger pick” guitar solo and brooding lyrics about being scarred by others’ expectations. The power ballad became a mainstream rock and Billboard Hot 100 hit.

Of the acoustic opening, Hetfield once said, “’The Unforgiven’ has got a little Spanish classical, which is nothing new, we’ve used that before. It’s real shimmery for acoustic. The other guys hate me for it, but I really like some country-western stuff, and I really wanted to put it in somewhere, and I did. They like it.”

Hammett’s guitar solo was trickier.

“That was probably the most challenging solo on the album,” he told Guitar World in an interview. “I had something worked out before I got into the studio, but [producer] Bob [Rock] felt it wasn’t quite appropriate. He asked if I could try something dirtier and more sustaining — something more in the vein of Jeff Beck. At first I was kind of hurt, but then I realized he was right. I started fingerpicking a chordal thing, and Bob liked the way it sounded. He said, ‘Why don’t you play that entire guitar solo with your fingers, and really pull on the strings and slap them against the frets?’ 

“It was a cool idea. I did it, and it sounded really percussive,” Hammett added. “That was the first time I fingerpicked a guitar solo on an album. That’s a great example of a song that was a challenge, feel-wise.”

RELATED: 1991 Rock Anthem Ranked Among Most Iconic Guitar Riffs Remains Band’s Definitive Hit 35 Years Later

Hetfield was the lyricist for the song, and the words were inspired by his real-life regrets.

“‘The Unforgiven’ was basically about alienation and, kind of, regret in life,” Hetfield said in a 1998 interview with Maximum Guitar, per Ultimate Classic Rock. “I lived my life for other people, trying to please everyone else except myself and at the end of the day blaming everyone else instead of yourself and not really taking responsibility for yourself.”

In addition to 1991’s “The Unforgiven,” Metallica released “The Unforgiven II” on their 1997 album, Reload, as well as “The Unforgiven III” on 2008’s Death Magnetic.

Thirty-five years later, the original version of “The Unforgiven” remains one of Metallica’s most iconic power ballads—an iconic staple from the band’s catalog that has stood the test of time.

Related: 1992 Hit Ranked Among ‘Greatest Power Ballads’ of All Time — An Unexpected Turn for an Iconic Band

It’s been over 21 years since Star Wars: Episode III — Revenge of the Sith was released in theaters, and four years since Disney+ released the Obi-Wan Kenobi TV series. Ewan McGregor thinks it’s time for the Jedi to return to the screen, but it seems Disney isn’t quite ready yet.

During McGregor’s press tour for his new movie, The End of Oak Street, the Star Wars actor spoke with E! News about how he’d like to see his character, Obi-Wan Kenobi, return in a new movie or another season of the TV show.

“I’m ready whenever they are,” McGregor said. “They just seem to not be ready, but I’m up for it. At the end of the Obi-Wan series, I’m walking off into the desert, and I’ve decided to leave. I’ve realized I can’t keep the pressure on Luke. I realized he has to have his own childhood, so I leave him with Uncle Owen and Aunt Beru. And I wander off … and Qui-Gon’s back. And we go off … but where are we going?”

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McGregor continued, saying that the next time Obi-Wan appears is in the original trilogy, with Alec Guinness playing the Jedi master.

“What happens between those two moments is what I want to do and spend the rest of my career doing these stories,” McGregor said. “Stories, you know, series or movies. We’ve got plenty of time; I’ve got 10 years before I am Alec Guinness’ age. So come on, Disney!”

The Obi-Wan Kenobi Disney+ series was released after McGregor’s 17-year hiatus from the franchise. Although McGregor is ready for a second season of the show, fans agree that there’s time to spare.

“The best part is, even if they do end up taking way too long, he can still play old Obi too,” one fan commented on E! News’ clip of the interview on Instagram.

“Next time we see him return as Obi-Wan, it better be a movie,” another said. “Maybe 2 movies. Or 3?”

“To have him say he wants to make these for the rest of his life is amazing to hear as a fan,” one user said.

McGregor’s latest movie, The End of Oak Street, was produced by Star Wars: The Force Awakens director J.J. Abrams. McGregor stars in it alongside Anne Hathaway, playing a couple whose home is mysteriously transported to prehistoric times. Check out the trailer here.

Put your platforms on and pile on the glitter because ABBA is celebrating 50 years of “Dancing Queen” with a special new release.

The Swedish pop legends are commemorating the anniversary of their beloved 1976 hit with a limited-edition 10-inch sparkling black vinyl, as well as a traditional black vinyl edition. The single has been remastered at the legendary Abbey Road Studios, with “La Reina Del Baile” appearing on the B-side.

“Dancing Queen” was originally released in 1976 as the lead single from ABBA’s album Arrival. Written by Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus and Stig Anderson, the song went on to become one of the group’s most recognizable hits. And 50 years later, it’s still finding new listeners. (*“Dancing Queen” recently surpassed 2 billion streams on Spotify, making it one of fewer than 300 songs to reach that milestone on the platform.)

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The song’s influence has also extended well beyond ABBA’s original era. Modern artists continue to praise the disco-pop classic, while Wilco frontman Jeff Tweedy has written about how hearing “Dancing Queen” changed his perception of pop music.

The song eventually earned another major honor when it was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame. Fun fact: “Dancing Queen” wasn’t immediately released after it was recorded. ABBA reportedly held onto the song for nearly a year, choosing to release “Fernando” instead because they thought a ballad was needed to follow “Mamma Mia.”

Now, half a century after its original release, ABBA is giving “Dancing Queen” another chance to have the time of your life and this time, there’s plenty of sparkle involved.

More than a few stars have shared some interesting stories about Burt Reynolds over the years, some good, some… well, eventful, to say the least.

More recently, Super Troopers star and popular comedian Jay Chandrasekhar recalled his own tumultuous experiences working with Reynolds on the 2005 remake of The Dukes of Hazzard, which Chandrasekhar directed.

Appearing on a recent episode of Jay Mohr’s Mohr Stories podcast, the 58-year-old Chandrasekhar discussed what it was like working with Reynolds on the set of his 2005 comedy, which acted as a direct remake of the hit ’80s comedy series of the same name.

In the context of the film, Reynolds played the role of antagonistic Hazzard County Commissioner Davis “Boss” Hogg, the on-screen nemesis to Johnny Knoxville and Seann William Scott’s lead characters.

As Chandrasekhar remembered it, Reynolds initially showed up to the film hilariously unprepared. “I do a little read-through of the scene and it’s very clear to me he doesn’t know a single word of the scene,” Chandrasekhar said. “And I’m now pretty sure he hadn’t even read the script.”

In spite of Chandrasekhar’s concern, Reynolds assured the director he knew an easy trick to solve the crisis.

“Burt’s like, ‘Don’t worry, I learned a trick from Jimmy Stewart. Give me some note cards,’” the director continued. “We’re bringing note cards. We write all his lines down on the note cards, and we tape them to Seann William Scott and Johnny Knoxville’s chests. So he’s just reading their chests. I’m like, Burt, you’ve got to look him in the eyes. He goes, ‘I am looking him in the eyes, Orson.’ He called me ‘Orson Welles’ day one.’”

The following day, Chandrasekhar claimed that he had to personally feed Reynolds lines from behind the camera, all the while Reynolds continuously swung his fist in front of Chandrasekhar’s face, seemingly attempting to punch him.

“[Reynolds] was also punching the air by my face in between takes,” Chandrasekhar said. “I said to his assistant, I’m like, ‘Is Burt going to hit me?’ And he goes, ‘Well I’ve seen it before… But the good news for you is his back is hurting from all the stunts he’s done, and he’s on painkillers.’”

As the day continued, Chandrasekhar began preparing himself to fight with Reynolds, just as a precaution.

“In my mind, I’m prepped for him hitting me,” he said. “I’ve been punched before. Turns out I can I can take a punch. So, I’m like, ‘I’m going to take him. I’m going to grab him by the lapels. I’m going to lay him down gently, not going to hit him. I need his face for the movie’… This is how I’m preparing to fight Reynolds.”

Life can be hard: understatement of the century. Life stinks sometimes, but what sets people apart from each other is how they handle the challenging times. And some people don’t really “handle,” these situations but instead ask themselves, “Why does this always happen to me?”

While it can be really easy to fall into this line of thinking, it might put you into a victim mindset, which is where you believe that “life happens to you and that you have little or no power to change it,” Dr. Kathy McMahon, PsyD, a clinical psychologist, founder of Couples Therapy Inc. and a Certified Gottman Method Therapist, told Parade previously. Even though we don’t have control over outside forces in life, we do have power over how we deal with things, which is why that phrase—“Why does this always happen to me?”—is not helpful. 

In a previous article detailing things unhappy people say without realizing it, experts told Parade all about those Debbie Downer phrases that lead to negative thinking and self-talk. And one psychologist gave an alternative thing to think when you feel yourself wanting to say, “Woe is me!” Read on to find out why that negative phrase is so detrimental to your mental health and what you can use instead.

Related: Avoid Using This Phrase That ‘Reinforces a Cycle of Pessimism,’ Psychologists Warn

The Psychological Trap of Asking ‘Why Does This Always Happen to Me?’

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As you can imagine, negative thinking can be grating on someone’s self-image, self-confidence and overall opinions of themselves. When you are very critical of yourself and don’t “talk” to your brain kindly, you can start to believe that inner critic. The same toxic things can happen when you start to think pessimistic thoughts, such as “Why does this always happen to me?”

When bad things happen to you—whether they inconvenience you or ruin your day—and you start to believe that it’s inevitable because it always happens, you’re engaging in confirmation bias of your misfortune. It can also contribute to learned helplessness, making you so despondent that you start to think, “Why even try if things are going to end horribly?”

Dr. Patricia Dixon told Parade previously that such negative thinking can really impact your life.

“The language you use shapes your reality, and when you consistently express negative thoughts, they create a mental cage of pessimism,” she said. “This mindset acts as a lens through which you view the world, fostering a lack of hope and a toxic outlook.”

Related: 9 Signs Someone Is a Negative Influence on You, Psychologists Warn

The One Question Psychologists Say You Should Ask Instead

So, what can you ask yourself instead? It turns out it’s actually really easy to reframe “Why me?” into something positive while still being reflective: start asking yourself, “What can I learn from this?”

“This rhetorical question implies victimhood and self-pity,” Dr. Kiki Ramsey told Parade about the phrase “Why does this always happen to me?” at the time. ”It often arises when someone feels singled out by misfortune. Shifting to a phrase like, ‘What can I learn from this?’ can help one focus on growth rather than dwelling on problems.”

Related: People Who Grew up With Super-Negative Parents Often Develop These 12 Traits as Adults, Psychologists Say

Asking a question like “What can I learn from this?” allows you to have a growth mindset instead of a fixed one. You no longer have to be stuck in this cycle of “Bad things always happen to me” and can break into an upward spiral that can lead to learning and growing. 

Maybe you made a decision that led you to that negative situation. Maybe you chose to be friends with or believe in someone who wasn’t worthy of your trust. Whether it was a mistake or just happenstance, a positive phrase that reflects on what you can do differently next time allows you to grow from errors without beating yourself up.

Negativity will always be a poisonous way to think, especially if you’re aiming that vitriol at yourself. Being kind to yourself is a great first step in leading a life you’re happy with and mentally healthy for.

Up Next:

Related: This Phrase Makes You Instantly Approachable, Psychologist Explains

Sources:

• Dr. Kathy McMahon, PsyD, is a clinical psychologist, founder of Couples Therapy Inc. and a Certified Gottman Method Therapist.
• Dr. Kiki Ramsey is a positive psychologist and executive coach.
• Dr. Patricia Dixon is a psychologist.

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In a world full of divisive fashion trends, one throwback shoe style consistently emerges as a clear fall favorite year after year. It’s so popular that it’s even been spotted on some of the world’s biggest style icons. Recently worn by fashion icons like Katie Holmes, Kate Middleton, and Gwyneth Paltrow, the iconic Mary Jane flat is formal, playful, and elegant at once.

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If you love the look, Aerosoles Britt Mary Jane Flats give you a similar vibe without the designer price tag. In fact, you can snag a pair right now for just $19 at Walmart, down from its usual $70. They’re available in sizes 6 to 11 and in black, rose, and soft gold colors. All of them can fit right into any wardrobe, adding a little flair to your look and a spring to your step.

Aerosoles Britt Mary Jane Flats, $19 (was $70) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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They’re designed for comfort, with a plump foam footbed that provides a soft cushion when you’re on the move. The knit upper lends them an especially autumnal vibe, so they’re perfect for pairing with wool dresses or cozy sweaters and jeans when it cools down. It’s a year-round shoe, though, and people have historically styled them with everything from shorts to skirts.

Unlike the conventional Mary Jane, these have a double buckle closure that nicely complements the otherwise traditional design. From its rounded almond toe to its sleek silhouette, the shoe has a clean and understated effect that fits seamlessly into any wardrobe. If they need a little TLC, just spot clean the affected area and they’ll look as good as new again.

Shoppers have high praise for Aerosoles’ interpretation of the style. One person dubbed the shoe “very comfortable” and noted that while they normally have foot pain, this is one of the few styles they can wear. Several others agreed that the support alone makes them a standout, and one person even compared them to “walking on pillows.”

Shop More Deals

• Shine Up Open Cardigan, $15 (was $26) at Walmart
• Bellella Leather Satchel, $30 (was $87) at Walmart
• Temofon Wide-Leg Sweatpants, $16 (was $40) at Walmart

Related: Walmart’s ‘Comfortable’ $13 Cotton Shorts Are So ‘Soft’ and ‘Stretchy,’ and Come in 10 Colors

Whether you’re looking for comfort-forward footwear that doesn’t sacrifice style or trying out a celeb-approved fashion trend, you can easily replicate the same look without spending a fortune. Pick up a pair of Aerosoles Britt Mary Jane Flats while the style is deeply discounted at Walmart.

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.

Within the shadow of the Nashville sound that would lay the groundwork for the pop country dominance of today, a beautiful new style of country music was beginning to bloom, spearheaded by the incomparable Willie Nelson, who traded the manicured and polished sound of commercial country music for a scrappy, messy, and deeply human style that brought country music back to the people. Perhaps no album is more emblematic of this than the 1974 Masterpiece, “Phases and Stages.”

The ’70s were a decade of great reinvention for Nelson. He was already a fairly accomplished country singer heading out of the ’60s, but he hadn’t really blossomed into the artist that we all know and love. The metamorphosis would begin in 1972 with the release of “Shotgun Willie,” which can really be seen as the album that kickstarted the outlaw movement. After the success of that record, Nelson found himself becoming inspired with a concept for a new album: a narrative on divorce.

That album would become “Phases and Stages,” an album telling the story of a divorce from the perspective of both a wife and a husband. The record saw a continued amount of success upon its release, although it was much more of a critical success than commercial. Robert Hilburn’s review at the time described how the album was the first real successful attempt at a concept album in the country genre, showing that it can hold the same depth as other styles. That critical legacy continues today, with the album landing at spot 51 on Rolling Stone’s Greatest Country Albums list.

This is my favorite Nelson album. I think Willie Nelson is one of the most deeply human songwriters to ever live, and this album is the absolute pinnacle of his talents with empathy. The story structure of the record is so expertly handled and gives you an intimate portrait despite sparse details. The album opens with the first half which is told from the woman’s perspective. My favorite track from this first half is “Pretend I Never Happened,” a country rock tune about the woman having left, and telling her now ex-husband to forget all about her.

Despite the heartache and grief of this track, there’s such a liberation present throughout that I think a lot of people can relate to when exiting a bad situation. The song sounds like pure freedom from a painful shackle that you’ve finally worked up the courage to shed. With all the spite of a fresh breakup, the song is an angry, pained, yet triumphant experience.

As for the man’s perspective of the album, I’m really fond of “It’s Not Supposed to Be That Way,” a ballad from the perspective of someone feeling wronged by being left despite his adultery. Nelson’s writing positions him as somebody who believes that his ex-wife’s duty was to just stick by him no matter what, and the consequences of his actions are completely unfathomable to him. It’s fantastic, subtle songwriting that adds so many layers to the narrative.

Nelson’s singing is phenomenal on this track as well, with a lazy, mellow pedal steel part in the background creating this almost drunken atmosphere as our unnamed narrator decries this woman for leaving him.

“Phases and Stages” is Willie Nelson at his finest. He’s a master storyteller as well as an incredibly empathetic writer, taking a story that often becomes very convoluted, and cutting through the noise to show the tragedy and triumph of two people splitting apart. The album cements him as one of the greatest to ever do it, and is an absolutely essential country record.

Related: 1971 Country Classic, Once Covered by Johnny Cash, Remains One of the Saddest Songs Ever Written

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Every 40 seconds, someone in the U.S. has a stroke, and every 3 minutes and 14 seconds, someone in the U.S. dies from a stroke, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

While most people who experience a stroke are 65 or older, up to 10% of strokes occur in people younger than 45. Stephanie Ost, who is 40, is one of those people. Two years ago, she had a stroke that left her paralyzed on the left side of her body. She was 38 years old. “I never would have thought this would happen to me,” she tells Parade.

Related: ‘I’m a Cardiologist—Here’s How to Prevent 80% of Strokes’

According to a 2023 scientific study published in Cureus, up to 60% of stroke survivors are left permanently disabled. This is because of dead brain cells that don’t regenerate, which causes the brain to no longer be able to communicate with the rest of the body properly. But a groundbreaking new treatment, vagal nerve stimulation, is showing promise in overcoming this.    

Ost was one of the first people in the U.S. to receive the treatment, which involved getting a vagal nerve stimulator implanted in her chest, with wires tunneling under the skin to electrodes on the left side of her neck near the vagus nerve. 

Here, Ost shares her experience and what she wants all stroke survivors to know.

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Her Earliest Warning Signs

No one ever expects to have a stroke, and at 38, Ost certainly didn’t. While she says she has diabetes and high blood pressure, which did put her at higher risk, it wasn’t something she was worried about. She didn’t even recognize that it was happening.

“I was getting ready for work and felt off. I felt thirsty and tired. I was also moving slower. For example, my brain knew I wanted to type, but I was slow to move my hands to the keyboard,” Ost says, of the earliest warning signs. She assumed that she was dehydrated or tired and continued to go about her day.

That evening, she started feeling anxious and experiencing symptoms of a panic attack. Her heart was racing and she couldn’t slow down her breathing. This time, Ost decided to listen to her body and go to the emergency room, even after she drank some water and was starting to calm down.

Related: This Common Heart Condition Can Cause a Stroke, Cardiologists Warn

In the ER, doctors told her they were going to do an EKG to get a better look at her heart. But Ost doesn’t remember the rest of the conversation or any of the tests they did. “The last thing I remember was that it was Friday night. I woke up on Monday morning,” she says.

What she didn’t know until she woke up was that her blood pressure had skyrocketed and she had an ischemic stroke caused by a blood clot blocking an artery supplying blood to the brain. Shortly after having the stroke, she was given a tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), which dissolves blood clots.

Despite receiving the tPA, Ost’s stroke (which occurred in the basal ganglia, which is primarily responsible for motor control and movement), had a devastating impact. She was left paralyzed on the left side of her body. After staying in the hospital for about a week, Ost was transferred to an inpatient rehabilitation facility, where she stayed for two weeks. Ost had to relearn how to do tasks she used to do without even thinking about it, such as walking and picking up objects.

After two weeks, her insurance would no longer cover her stay at the rehabilitation center, so she went home and continued to do outpatient rehab several times a week, which she still does two years later. Several months after she was sent home, her therapist asked if she wanted to try a new treatment for stroke recovery that had recently been FDA-approved, called Vivistim. She said yes.

Related: 30% of People Have More Than One Stroke—But an Exciting New Development Could Reduce Recurrance Chances

How Vagal Nerve Stimulation for Stroke Recovery Works

Vivistim is an FDA-approved implantable device that helps stroke survivors by stimulating neurogenesis (the biological process by which new neurons are formed in the brain) through stimulating the vagal nerve. This is called vagal nerve stimulation. 

“We don’t exactly know how it works, but rat models show that vagal nerve stimulation increases plasticity, allowing neurons to potentially make new connections,” says Dr. Mark Bain, MD, a neurosurgeon at Cleveland Clinic specializing in stroke recovery and who does the implantation surgery. 

Dr. Bain explains that the device is implanted during a 15-minute outpatient procedure. During this surgery, a stimulator is wrapped around the vagal nerve, located in the neck. Then, another incision is made just below the collarbone, which is where the battery pack is placed. 

During occupational or physical therapy, the device delivers a mild pulse to the vagal nerve. This stimulates the release of neurotransmitters in the brain, which heightens the brain’s focus, making it more receptive to learning the task that is being performed. Patients, like Ost, are also given a magnet they can swipe over the implanted device to activate it when doing a daily task they want to get better at, such as cooking or getting dressed.

Ost underwent surgery and received the device on July 23, 2025, and she says she’s definitely noticed a change in her recovery. “Since I’ve received the implant, I’ve regained a lot of skills I lost. I can hold my purse, put away groceries, move my arms and bend my wrists. I couldn’t do any of that after my stroke,” she says.

Dr. Bain says that the vagal stimulation implant is still too new to know how greatly it can improve stroke recovery. For some, it may help lead to a full recovery. For others, they may reach a certain level of recovery and then plateau. But there’s no doubt that it’s an exciting new treatment.

A Message To Other Stroke Survivors

Ost’s health journey is not over yet. She hasn’t fully recovered from her stroke and is still going to rehab twice a week. But she hasn’t let having a stroke stop her from living a full life, a message she wants to pass along to other stroke survivors.

“Having a stroke means that you’ll likely need to make some changes, but it’s not the end of your life. Everyone has to make changes sometimes,” she tells Parade. Ost explains that she has traveled to several places after having a stroke and has been pleasantly surprised to see how accessible many places are to people with disabilities, sharing, “When I went to Myrtle Beach, there were even wheelchairs you could rent for the beach that had big beach tires.”

Ost encourages stroke survivors to use tools like ChatGPT and YouTube to ask questions and find resources. “There are so many free videos on YouTube of exercises for stroke survivors made by occupational therapists,” she says, citing one way to use technology to support recovery.

Dr. Bain believes we are at the forefront of even more groundbreaking treatments for stroke recovery being developed. Considering just how prevalent strokes are, these new treatments just may become one of the most important medical advances of our time.

Up Next:

Related: Neurologists Warn This Morning Habit Could Be Secretly Shrinking Your Brain

Sources 

• Stroke Facts. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
• Stroke in Young People. Stanford Medicine.
• Poomalai, G., Prabhakar, S. and Sirala Jagadesh, N. (2023). Functional Ability and Health Problems of Stroke Survivors: An Explorative Study. Cureus. 15(1):e33375.
• Vagal Nerve Stimulation. Cleveland Clinic.
• Ischemic Stroke (Clots). American Stroke Association.
• tPA for Stroke. Cleveland Clinic.
• Dr. Mark Bain, MD, neurosurgeon at Cleveland Clinic specializing in stroke recovery.

It's not very often that auditioning actors find themselves opposite their potential on-screen co-star.

But such a surprise welcomed Little House on the Prairie star Charlotte Stewart when she first auditioned for the role of Little House's maternal school teacher, Eva Beadle-Simms, on the hit drama series.

Interestingly, during her recent appearance on The Patrick LabyorSheaux podcast, Stewart mentioned that she wasn't fully prepared to try out for the part of Little House's firm yet loving frontier teacher.

Of course, this ended up causing even more of a surprise when she opened the door to find herself opposite Michael Landon, the iconic lead of Little House, who was fresh off his career-making performance in Bonanza.

“I got an interview for Paramount Studios for something called Little House. I didn’t pay much attention to it,” Stewart recalled. “So, I arrived at Paramount, and there’s all these women in old-West dresses, bonnets, and long skirts, and I’m in my tie-dye T-shirt and jeans. And they said, ‘Are you ready to read?’ I went, ‘Okay!’ So, they opened the door, I walk in, and it’s like 12 men in folding chairs and Michael Landon.”

Seeing Landon there, Stewart said that she was “shocked speechless, because that’s the first time anybody said it was a Michael Landon thing.”

Fortunately, she wound up "recover[ing] very quickly," allowing her to fully inhabit the role of Eva the moment the audition began.

Noticing a producer sitting behind a large desk, Stewart approached the executive and said, "‘May I sit at your desk?’ [He said] ‘Oh, well okay.’ He got up and moved, and I walked all the way down to the end of the room.”

As the men in the room continued speaking with one another, Stewart slapped her hands on the desk and began to sternly reprimand them. “I went, ‘Quiet!’ I told Michael Landon to shut up in my interview," she explained. "So I got the part."

In the summer of 1982, Def Leppard was standing right on the edge of global stardom.

Halfway through recording what would become their breakthrough album, Pyromania, the British rockers faced one major problem. Tensions with founding guitarist Pete Willis had hit a breaking point.

According to the website Rock and Roll Insight, Willis reportedly had issues with alcohol and showed up to the studio under the influence. After one particularly heated exchange, Willis was sent home from the studio.

The decision was made to fire the composer of some of the band's greatest early hits, such as "Photograph" and "Bringing on the Heartbreak." Joe Elliott was tasked with the job.

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Def Leppard 1980 Pete Willis, Steve Clark, Joe Elliott, Rick Allen, Rick Savage at the Music File Photos 1980's in Los Angeles/Chris Walter/WireImage

In July 1982, he told Willis he was no longer a member of the band. The website shared his remarks from the 1987 book Animal Instinct about the moment he learned he was out of Def Leppard.

"He was nice about it," Willis explained. "He said 'I'm really sorry, Pete, I didn't want to have to be the one to tell you this, but I got the job anyway.' After he said that, I knew what was coming next, I said I wanted to come down and talk about it. I didn't want to change their minds as much as to ask why - although deep down, I knew why."

Ultimate Classic Rock reported that Phil Collen was called in to replace Willis. Collen was already a friend of the band, but initially was only brought on temporarily to see if he fit in with the existing material they had already recorded for Pyromania.

Collen told Ultimate Classic Rock, “That first day, actually, I changed the dynamic. Steve Clark and Pete played a certain way, and I played a way more aggressive and flashy style. It seemed to click straight away."

The guitarist continued, "Everyone kind of reacted to it positively, so I actually felt really good straight off the bat. None of us were aware that any of this thing was going to happen or explode like it did, so we were kind of shocked, pleasantly. It was just an amazing, exciting period."

Clark and Collen quickly became known as the "Terror Twins" thanks to the incredible chemistry they brought to the stage. That seamless interplay of high-octane riffs and dual-lead harmonies ultimately created the band's iconic 1980s arena-rock sound.

However, Collen maintains he was never officially asked to join Def Leppard. He told Ultimate Classic Rock, “I didn’t realize I was joining the band – I was helping my mates out,” he explained.

“It was amazing working with Mutt. He was so inspiring and gets you so inspired. Half the time you want to do it just to please him. It was very different," the guitarist continued.

Ultimately, Collen shared that Elliot finally asked him to join Def Leppard officially almost a decade later. He said, “Some time in the ‘90s, Joe said, ‘Okay, do you want to join the band?’ And I refused, obviously.”

After wrapping a high-profile Las Vegas residency at Caesars Palace in February 2026, the band launched into a tour across Europe and the UK. They recently announced a series of shows in Fall 2026 through Mexico and South America with special guest Extreme.

Related: 1983 Hit, Once Called the Greatest Hair Metal Song Ever, Was Inspired By a Bible Hymn