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Air fryers have gone from trendy countertop gadgets to everyday kitchen essentials, and it's easy to see why. They promise the crispy texture people love from fried foods with far less oil, while also cutting down on cooking time for everything from vegetables and chicken to leftovers and frozen snacks. For busy households, they're a convenient way to get dinner on the table faster, and for anyone looking to simplify cooking without sacrificing flavor, they've become a go-to appliance.

Part of the air fryer's appeal is its versatility. It can roast, bake, crisp and reheat foods that might otherwise require multiple appliances. It's also more energy-efficient than heating up a full-size oven for smaller meals, making it a practical choice during hot summer months or for quick weeknight cooking. But while air fryers are designed to be simple to use, getting consistently golden, crispy results isn't always as effortless as pressing a button.

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That's where professional chef advice comes into play. Many culinary experts say that while air fryers are incredibly forgiving, a few common habits can keep home cooks from getting the best possible results. Small adjustments to how you arrange food, set temperatures or time your cooking can make the difference between perfectly crisp potatoes and limp, soggy fries.

To find out which mistakes matter most, we spoke with award-winning chef Ozoz Sokoh, who says one error stands out above the rest. According to Sokoh, avoiding this simple habit can dramatically improve everything you cook in your air fryer, and once you understand the science behind it, the advice makes perfect sense.

The Biggest Mistake: Overcrowding the Basket

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If Sokoh could convince every home cook to change just one air fryer habit, it would be this: stop overcrowding the basket.

"Overcrowding the basket and not laying things out in a single layer leads to uneven cooking and browning," she says.

It's an easy mistake to make. When you're trying to cook dinner quickly, it's tempting to fit as much food as possible into one batch. However, packing the basket too tightly prevents the air fryer from doing what it's designed to do, resulting in food that's patchy, pale or disappointingly soft instead of crispy.

Related: We Asked 7 Chefs for Their Favorite Frozen Meals and We're Obsessed With These Answers

The Culinary Science: How an Air Fryer Actually Works

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Despite the name, an air fryer doesn't actually fry food. Instead, it rapidly circulates very hot air around the ingredients, creating the crisp exterior many people associate with deep frying. That process depends on airflow, which is why overcrowding causes problems.

"Overcrowding in an air fryer is similar to overcrowding the pan of oil when deep-frying," Sokoh explains. "There isn't sufficient room for any moisture to circulate out and evaporate, which leads to trapped steam and soggy products. In addition, the altered heat distribution in crowded baskets means uneven cooking."

In other words, instead of crisping, your food ends up steaming itself.

The Best Air Fryer Method, According to a Chef

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Fortunately, the fix is simple. Sokoh recommends leaving space between each piece of food so hot air can circulate freely. She also flips ingredients or shakes the basket about two-thirds of the way through cooking to promote even browning on all sides.

If that means cooking in two batches instead of one, it's usually worth the extra few minutes. Better airflow means crispier vegetables, crunchier potatoes and more evenly cooked proteins.

Related: We Asked 5 Chefs Their Favorite Little Debbie Snack, and Their Picks Were Pure Lunchbox Nostalgia

The Golden Rule for Converting Oven Recipes

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Air fryers also require a slightly different approach than traditional ovens. "When converting recipes," Sokoh says, "I begin with a cooking time around half of what it would otherwise take in a traditional oven, and then I adjust accordingly until the dish is cooked through."

She also lowers the cooking temperature by about 5 to 10 degrees, noting that the compact cooking chamber concentrates heat much more efficiently than a conventional oven.

Not every recipe is a perfect fit for an air fryer, though. Sokoh advises skipping classic deep-fried favorites like dough balls, beignets and other yeast batters, which rely on being immersed in hot oil to develop their signature texture.

More Air Fryer Mistakes To Avoid

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Beyond overcrowding the basket, Sokoh says one of the biggest mistakes happens before cooking even begins.

"Read the manual and familiarize yourself with the features and settings," she advises. Otherwise, you may miss useful functions that can help you get the best performance from your appliance.

Every air fryer model cooks a little differently, so taking a few minutes to understand its settings can save plenty of trial and error later.

In the end, mastering an air fryer isn't about complicated techniques—it's about giving hot air enough room to work. Leave space between your food, flip it during cooking, adjust oven recipes thoughtfully and get to know your machine. Those simple changes can turn good air fryer meals into consistently crispy, golden ones that live up to the appliance's reputation.

Source:

• Ozoz Sokoh is a Nigerian food explorer, educator, researcher and cookbook author whose work celebrates the history, culture and global influence of Nigerian and West African cuisines. She is the author of Chop Chop: Cooking the Food of Nigeria, which won the 2026 James Beard Award for Emerging Voice in Books and a Gold Nautilus Book Award. Through her writing, research and public speaking, Sokoh documents and champions West African foodways for audiences around the world.

Related: The 8 Best Cookbook Stands That Chefs Swear By

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Sometimes, it's the small accent pieces that transform a space. Fortunately, with Walmart's latest home offerings, you can easily level up your home decor with affordable pieces that add rustic charm. If you're looking to lean into farmhouse-style or countryside vibes for your living area, then you'll want to add the Mehoom Round Wooden End Table to your cart, while it's 35% off.

The table originally cost $49, but has been reduced to just $32. The piece is marked as Walmart's overall pick and is in over 50 peoples carts, and we think it's likely to sell out quickly. The furniture is currently in stock in two materials: wood and iron. The wood is ideal for rustic homes, while the iron is perfect for those who prefer modern-style decor. The piece is composed of a blend of engineered and solid wood. 

Mehoom Round Wooden End Table, $32 (was $49) at Walmart

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The 16-inch by 19-inch round top table design features raised rounded edges that will keep your items from falling off, while the anti-slip foot beds will protect your floors from scratches and keep it secure. The beauty of this piece is that it's "perfect" for small spaces, so you can place it in tight areas in various rooms or utilize it in condensed apartments. 

You will have to assemble the table upon arrival, but according to the product description, it should only take around five minutes to put together due to its twist-on legs. Shoppers described the affordable end table as "stylish," "aesthetically pleasing," "amazing," and "pretty." Another customer said that it offers a "very simple elegant look." 

Since this "super cute" piece can support up to 40 pounds, you can easily place decorative pieces like coffee table books, lamps, picture frames, and more on it. Reviewers added potted plants on the table, while others used it as a bedroom nightstand. Due to the incredibly low price, some shoppers even purchased a matching pair so that they can be placed on each side of the bed or couch. 

Shop More Deals 

• U by Bedsure Queen Comforter Set, $33 (was $73) at Walmart
• Patbrela Premium Leather Sofa, $270 (was $500) at Walmart
• Travelhouse 3-Piece Luggage Set, $50 (was $90) at Walmart

You don't have to break the bank to revamp your home. This gorgeous side table is a charming addition that you'll love for years.. Shop for the farmhouse-style piece while it's just $32 at Walmart! 

Related: Walmart Just Dropped a New Pumpkin-Shaped $19 Stoneware Dish That Doubles as a Beautiful ‘Centerpiece’

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Anne Hathaway has been attracting significant attention among fans for her visible baby bump in recent weeks.

Earlier this month, the 43-year-old actress stunned fans during the premiere of The Odyssey and, later, The End of Oak Street, which saw the Princess Diariesactress sporting a cropped blue gown and low-waisted jeans.

While most people have complimented Hathaway for her eye-catching appearance, some expressed skepticism over whether the actress is actually pregnant, something that actress Jennifer Love Hewitt took issue with.

Taking to Instagram to share a Story defending Hathaway, the 47-year-old Hewitt called out any fans criticizing Hathaway for her appearance or speculating over her pregnancy.

“Anne Hathaway, you are perfection,” Hewitt wrote on Instagram, tagging Hathaway and sharing a photo of the actress during the End of Oak Street premiere.

“This woman has been working sooo hard," the I Know What You Did Last Summer star continued. "Handling it all with such grace and by the way looks incredible!”

“And now we are going to comment on her body while pregnant,” she went on to add. “Please stop talking about women’s bodies. Please leave women alone.”

Humorously, Hathaway herself responded to the ongoing speculation about her pregnancy online, sharing a video of herself on Instagram with the caption, “Fake hair, real bump 😘 ✌️🦖🔥☀️🦕😅.”

Hathaway shares two sons with her husband, Adam Shulman, with her third child on the way. Previously, the couple welcomed their first baby, Jonathan, back in 2016, with their second, Jack, arriving in 2019.

In the years since, Hathaway has made a triumphant return to mainstream entertainment, starring in a string of hit films that include The Idea of You, The Devil Wears Prada 2 and The Odyssey.

Her latest film, the sci-fi survival thriller The End of Oak Street, arrives in theaters on August 14.

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If you are looking for a new wreath for the upcoming cozy season, Target has you covered with this stunning option available now. It's absolutely perfect for this time of year.

Threshold's Mixed Fall Leaf Wreath is a charming autumnal upgrade for any home. Designed in collaboration with Studio McGee, this rustic wreath features a pretty combination of leaves in shades of ochre, rust red and orange. The mixture of fall hues contrasts nicely, and a red ribbon completes the look and ties everything together beautifully.

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Threshold Designed With Studio McGee Mixed Fall Leaf Wreath, $35 at Target

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Designed for indoor use, you can hang this gorgeous fall wreath on your wall, on a window, a door or even on a fireplace mantel. You could also hang it on your front door, too; just make sure to bring it inside during bad weather. When it comes to dimensions, this circular wreath measures 24 inches in height, 24 inches in width and 6.5 inches in depth.

Related: World Market's Charming Floral Wreath Is Perfect for Transitioning Your Front Door From Summer to Fall

So far, customers are falling in love with this wreath, giving it an average rating of 4.3 stars on Target.com, with 80 percent of reviewers saying they would recommend the decor piece to others.

"I'm on the hunt for a beautiful fall wreath and this one is so lovely! The material is made of polyester and can be easily hung at a front door or even a mantel. It truly gives our front door a welcome to fall! Love the design of the red and yellow hues of leaves. The bow intertwined through out gives it an elegant fall feel. This is a good size wreath 24 inches (H) x 24 inches (W) Highly recommend this fall!" said one fan in a five-star review on Target.com.

"This mixed fall leaf wreath by Threshold designed with studio McGee adds a beautiful touch to any home! I love that it has a pretty maroon ribbon hanging to match the leaves and looks fantastic on my dark wood colored door, really makes the colors pop! It's of really good quality as well and looks pretty real," said another happy Target customer in a five-star review on Target.com.

You can find this beautiful best-selling fall wreath on Target.com or in select Target stores. It retails for $35.

Related: Target's 'Charming Little Desk' Is the Cutest Back-to-School Upgrade

Every once in a while an unexpected collaboration yields one of rock's greatest songs.

That was certainly true of "Because the Night," the iconic 1978 hit co-written by Bruce Springsteen and Patti Smith. The song that began as an unfinished Springsteen composition was destined to become the Patti Smith Group's signature song, ultimately earning a place as one of the defining rock anthems of its era.

The song almost never reached listeners.

While recording Darkness on the Edge of Town, Springsteen wrote the music and much of the melody for "Because the Night" but struggled to finish the lyrics. Producer Jimmy Iovine, who was working with both Springsteen and Patti Smith at the time, recognized the song's potential and suggested that Smith take a crack at completing it.

"I just had so much respect for the both of them, and I love them so much, their music and their lyrics, that I said 'This should happen,'" Iovine told Billboard. "People don't do a lot of things until they do them. No one said that to me, you know what I mean? Patti wasn't sure about it and Bruce was thinking about it and I was positive about it."

She immediately connected with the music.

"At the time, my boyfriend Fred 'Sonic' Smith [of the MC5], who I later married, lived in Detroit and I lived in New York," Smith told The Guardian. "Long distance calls were expensive and we weren’t rich, so we’d set a time and speak once a week. One night, Fred didn't call. I was restlessly pacing about and I remembered this tape Jimmy wanted me to listen to. I thought: 'Darn, this is a hit song.' But it was very relatable. Fred finally called at midnight, by which time I had finished all the verses and the reprise/coda."

The result was a powerful fusion of Springsteen's driving rock foundation and Smith's poetic storytelling, producing a song that reflected both artists' creative strengths.

The collaboration proved to be a breakthrough.

Released as the lead single from the Patti Smith Group's album Easter, "Because the Night" became the band's biggest commercial success. The song reached No. 13 on the Billboard Hot 100 and climbed into the Top 10 in several countries, introducing Smith to a much wider audience while becoming a permanent fixture of rock radio.

Its legacy has only grown stronger over time.

Springsteen has regularly performed the song in concert, often returning to his original lyrics, while Smith's version remains the definitive recording for many fans. Over the decades, "Because the Night" has also been covered by artists ranging from 10,000 Maniacs to Garbage and has appeared on numerous lists celebrating the greatest rock songs ever recorded.

"I was a tremendous admirer of Patti," Springsteen shared years later. "I was just flattered that she was interested in collaborating, and I was just happy that she found something that she could do with the song, you know, because that song would still be in my archives if it wasn't for her. And it would be something that nobody had ever heard of."

Nearly 50 years after its release, "Because the Night" continues to resonate with listeners through its soaring chorus and timeless message of love and desire. What Bruce Springsteen began and Patti Smith completed became far more than a hit, it became one of rock's most powerful and enduring songs.

Related: 1966 Rock Song, With 17-Year-Old Singer of the Spencer Davis Group, Became a No. 1 Hit

In 1957, a 15-year-old Paul Anka penned his first major hit, and it kicked his career into high gear, almost immediately catapulting him to teen stardom. "Diana" became the young musician's first of many No. 1 hits on multiple international charts—and it remains a pop culture staple 69 years later.

Reportedly written about a real life crush, an older girl at the time named Diana Ayoub, the romantic ballad tells the classic puppy love story of a guy who has fallen for a girl, hoping to get her attention and admiration in return.

"I'm so young and you're so old / This, my darling, I've been told / I don't care just what they say / 'Cause forever I will pray / You and I will be as free / As the birds up in the trees / Oh, please stay by me, Diana," Anka croons on the track, per Genius.

It was recorded on May 20, 1957, at NYC's Don Costa's studio and later released on July 2. Despite peaking just shy of the top spot at No. 2 on the US Billboard Hot 100, it became an international smash, reaching No. 1 on the UK Singles chart. In the States, it also hit No. 1 on the R&B Best Sellers chart. It has since sold over nine million copies, according to History of Rock.

At the time of writing, the song had racked up over 91 million Spotify streams and millions of YouTube views.

Related: 1971 No. 1 Hit, Famously Performed on 'Soul Train,' Is Still a 'Masterclass in Storytelling' 55 Years Later

“I love writing,” Anka told Business Jet Traveler in 2015. “That’s what got me into this business. My first hit, ‘Diana,’ was a poem I set to music. When my records started selling, I was scared that success might not last, and I felt I could always fall back on my writing. So I promised myself that I would write, and if a song wasn’t good for me I’d offer it to another performer. Writing’s been very good to me."

Anka has recorded over 120 albums in a wide variety of languages, selling close to 50 million worldwide. The iconic singer has charted a whopping 48 hits on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, and made history by becoming the only artist to have a song enter the chart for seven consecutive decades after the release of his album Duets (2013). He's known for such iconic songs as ”Put Your Head on My Shoulder,” “(You’re) Having My Baby,” “Puppy Love,” “It’s Time to Cry,” “Times of Your Life,” “I Don’t Like to Sleep Alone,” “My Home Town,” “Summer’s Gone,” and many more.

Anka was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1993, where the organization celebrated his 900-song catalog and impressive career.

As Parade recently reported, the artist—nicknamed "Rock and Roll's Original Lonely Boy" after his smash hit "Lonely Boy" (1959)—just celebrated his milestone 85th birthday on July 30, 2026. And over seven decades after beginning his career, the legendary singer/songwriter is still performing live. He announced a concert series earlier this year, playing several dates across the U.S. this past spring from March through May on his Paul Anka: A Man and His Music Tour.

Next, '70s Music Legend, Original Member of Iconic Soft Rock Band Turns 78

One thing that is never a surprise is the way characters in Marvel movies can return from the dead. So, with rumors circulating that a previously dead character could return for Black Panther 3, the biggest emotion is excitement.

No, don’t start panicking that Marvel is going to use AI to bring actors from the past back to life. This is a character whose actor is still alive, which makes writing the storyline plausible and fun.

Angela Bassett Could Return to ‘Black Panther 3’

According to The Cosmic Circus, a source shared that Black Panther 3 will see the return of Angela Bassett’s Queen Mother Ramonda, who was killed off during the second installment of the franchise.

The death was an important one to shape the future of Wakanda. Initially, she took the throne following the death of her son, King T’Challa, and she had to passionately defend the nation when Namor, the ruler of the underwater nation Talokan, appeared to demand that Wakanda hand over a young inventor, Riri Williams.

Ramonda refuses to allow that to happen, and she ends up dying while saving Riri from drowning at a later point in the movie. This pushes Shuri to synthesize the heart-shaped herb so that she can become the new titular character.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JULY 13: Angela Bassett attends "The Whoopi Monologues" Opening Night at Mitzi E. Newhouse Theater on July 13, 2026 in New York City. (Photo by Theo Wargo/Getty Images) How Can Ramonda Return for ‘Black Panther 3’?

How is it possible that a previously dead character could return? This is all thanks to the world of Wakanda, the beliefs, and the ability to enter other planes. Ramonda will have gone to the Ancestral Plane, and that is where Black Panther 3 is expected to spend more time. It opens the door for other characters who have passed on in the movies to return.

Namor is also expected to return in the movie, as well as in Avengers: Doomsday. Shuri and Winston Duke’s M’Baku will turn to Namor for help, leading to the prophecy Namor had about other nations coming for Wakanda coming true. This could open the door for Shuri and others to turn to the Ancestral Plane for advice.

While Shuri took on the mantle of the Black Panther in the second movie, Marvel announced during San Diego Comic Con that there will be a new titular character. T’Challa II will be played by David Jonsson and is T’Challa’s grown-up son, but there is still a lot to go through to get to that point, as not only will there be Avengers: Doomsday, but Avengers: Secret Wars is also slated to arrive before Black Panther 3, helping to set some storylines for the movie to develop.

Through the years of 1970 and 1971, legendary singer/songwriter and rock icon Neil Young was dealing with a recurring lyrical theme of the legacy of slavery and continued racism in the American South. This spawned two of Young's most classic rock songs, "Southern Man," and "Alabama." These songs tackle the racism that is prevalent in that part of the country and the ways it manifests up to today. As it turns out, an up and coming southern rock band heard this songs and took issue with the way the south was portrayed. They decided to write a song directly calling Young out for his statements. That band was Lynyrd Skynyrd, and that song was "Sweet Home Alabama."

"Sweet Home Alabama" kicks off the band's second album, following their extremely successful debut record. The band was climbing the ladder of stardom very quickly, and needed a real smash hit song to cement them as one of the biggest up-and-coming groups of the era. That success came with "Sweet Home Alabama," which became and remains the band's biggest song, landing at number eight on the Billboard Hot 100.

It's an instantly recognizable song that defines the band. Many people however are unaware that the song is one of the earliest examples of a diss track, with an entire verse of the song devoted to calling out Neil Young by name.

Well, I heard Mr. Young sing about her (Southern man)
Well, I heard ol' Neil put her down
Well, I hope Neil Young will remember
A Southern man don't need him around, anyhow

If you were to ask me which side of this musical feud I land on, I think I need to give the edge to Neil Young. He's absolutely one of my favorite musicians ever, and I think both songs of his are calling attention to valid issues that persist in the South still. Not to mention Young's excellent guitar work on both songs and especially on "Southern Man."

Regardless of which side of the feud you were on, it's undeniable that it's an important chapter in music history that spawned one of rock's most iconic tracks.

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

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The Office stars on both sides of the bond are banding together, as cancer survivor and actor Jenna Fischersent a heartfelt message to Lucy Davis after she recently announced her "incurable" Stage 4 breast cancer.

Davis announced on Aug. 11 through Instagram that she was diagnosed with breast cancer a year and a half ago. The form of cancer has since “metastasized to my bones. Specifically to my spine, right hip, and my ribs." She also added that the now Stage 4 cancer is "incurable" and that it's too late for her to undergo chemotherapy.

She wrote on Instagram that she is "not scared of whatever comes next" and that she's "at peace with it." Despite the cancer, Davis will continue to work for animal rights and continue working as an actor, as it "is one of the biggest joys of my life."

Following the news, The Office and Chilling Adventures of Sabrina star received an outpouring of support from fans and fellow co-stars. Fischer and Davis are connected through the hit comedy series, as Davis played the original role of receptionist Dawn Tinsley in the U.K. version of The Office, with Fischer playing the U.S. counterpart.

“Beautiful post. Love you lots. And yes to working with cancer!” Fischer commented on Instagram. “Let’s spread that message far and wide! How working is such a comfort!”

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Just as the two actors share a connection through the series, they also share another one in life. Fischer revealed in 2024 that she was diagnosed with triple-positive breast cancer and now lives cancer-free. She had undergone surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation to treat the cancer and waited to make her journey public. Following the diagnosis and treatment, Fischer used the experience to advocate for the importance of annual mammograms.

Davis revealed in her original Instagram post that she had initially felt a lump or "hard spot" in her breast. Due to its small size, she "almost didn’t bother getting it checked. So I guess I’m saying don’t ignore anything - get everything checked out." She adds that she will live out the rest of her life in "as fun a way as I possibly can."

Having starred in the hit zombie comedy film Shaun of the Dead, director Edgar Wright commented, "Love you, Lucy. Always. See you very soon." Her Chilling Adventures of Sabrina co-star Kiernan Shipka also commented, "I love you so much Lucy," with Miranda Otto and Luke Cook also sharing heartfelt words.

Related: Tears for Fears Singer Roland Orzabal Opens Up About Finding Love With Another Woman Before Wife’s Death

It's hard to believe Apple TV delivered on a fourth season of Ted Lasso after fans thought the third was surely its last.

And while this latest installment trucks along, its Emmy-winning star has been out and about to promote the beloved comedy series in rather unique ways. First came Jason Sudeikis' pep talk, in character as Ted Lasso, with Justin Bieber before the singer's World Cup halftime performance.

More recently, Sudeikis, 50, took to the stage for his own sort of performance. While he wasn't donned as Lasso, 'stache and all, the Kansas City native embraced the trending show by singing the theme song from Ted Lasso.

On Tuesday, August 11, Sudeikis joined Mumford & Sons during their Madison Square Garden show to sing the theme song that was co-written by composer Tom Howe and Mumford & Sons frontman Marcus Mumford, the latter of whom also performed the song that plays near the beginning of each episode.

Check out Live Nation's Instagram clip of the viral moment below.

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Fans have since flooded the post's comments section to show their appreciation for the unexpected performance. "Greatest part of the night! 🙌🏻" wrote one Instagram user, while another person commented, "This show should win the Nobel peace prize!❤️❤️❤️"

Halfway into the show in New York City, the camera panned to the surprise guest in the crowd, per The Hollywood Reporter. Sudeikis was nodding his head to the music at first and then smiled and ran on stage to finish out the song with the band. The crowd erupted in cheers for the actor and the duet.

Bieber Got a Little Help From His Friend, Lasso

After Sudeikis had led Bieber, 32, onto the World Cup stage last month, fans expected the pop star to launch into one of his upbeat biggest hits. Bieber, however, decided to take things acoustic and performed his stripped-back song “EVERYTHING HALLELUJAH” off his album SWAG II. Placed between energetic performances from BTS and Shakira, the emotional ballad immediately stood out, and not everyone understood the choice. Find out more here.

Former “The Great British Baking Show” judge Prue Leith revealed that she was recently hospitalized after she lost her sight and speech, which had her fearing that she was suffering a stroke.

“A few weeks ago, staying in Yorkshire, I had a migraine attack," Leith wrote in her column in the September issue of The Oldie magazine, per The Sun. “It followed a familiar path. First, I can see only half of whatever I’m looking at. This is speedily followed by a bright circle of flickering, coloured lights in the upper right field of vision."

She added that she worried her husband, who called emergency services due to her incomprehensible jumble of disconnected words”. 

“I tried to tell him it was just a migraine, but I couldn’t string two words together," Leith explained. "He rang our doctor, who asked me, could I raise my arms? Yes. Make a fist? Yes. Did anything hurt? No. Was the side of my face drooping? No."

“In spite of my answers, she ordered an ambulance to take me to Harrogate Hospital. The ambulance man asked me the same questions, as did a nurse on arrival at A&E, and so, after a six-hour wait, did the doctor," she continued. "In spite of my assuring him (I’d recovered coherent speech by then) that it was a migraine, he decided on a CT scan. Two hours later, I had one, waited another hour for the results, and was released at 2am.”

Due to her age, they wanted to ensure that she was not suffering a stroke.

"And the doctor took the trouble to access my NHS records. He explained why he wanted to refer me for a brain scan, just to be sure (people of my age, 86, are prone to mini-strokes)," Leith said. "I knew all along that all I had was a migraine. But since the speech problem is a classic symptom of a stroke, and my extreme old age being a time when mini-strokes are common, everyone was determined to be safe not sorry.”

Jon Batiste is unexpectedly clearing several dates from his calendar.

The eight-time Grammy winner has canceled a string of upcoming performances in Pennsylvania, New York, and Connecticut, citing unspecified “personal circumstances.” The affected dates include his scheduled August 13 performance at Connecticut's Westville Music Bowl.

“Hello! As I navigate some personal circumstances, I unfortunately need to cancel a portion of my upcoming performance dates,” Batiste wrote in a statement that was shared on Westville Bowl’s Instagram account Tuesday, August 11.

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Batiste did not elaborate on what prompted the cancellations, but assured disappointed fans that he hopes to return to the stage soon. He also noted that refunds will be available through the original point of purchase. “Thank you for your understanding and continued support. I truly can’t wait to come back and perform for you soon,” he finished the statement.

The musician's announcement comes about a month after his wife, author and musician Suleika Jaouad, opened up about the realities of living with cancer. “One of illness’s optical illusions is that an empty calendar translates into free time,” Jaouad wrote on Instagram on July 16. “The reality is that entire days disappear into appointments and infusions and the fog of fatigue and the administrative labor of having a body.”

Batiste has not said whether his canceled performances have any connection to Jaouad's health, so the reason behind the decision remains private.

He's also not the only big-name performer to recently pull the plug on scheduled appearances. ZZ Topcanceled its August 5 Hollywood Bowl performance amid drummer Frank Beard's health issues, with frontman Billy Gibbons citing “Insurmountable obstacles.” The band later continued performing with Michael Monahan filling in for Beard.

Meanwhile, Jelly Rollrecently revealed that he's planning a much longer break from touring following his final scheduled U.S. performance, telling fans in late July, “I’m fixing to take some time off and heal.”

For Batiste, however, the cancellations don't appear to signal a retreat from music altogether. He's currently rolling out his new albums, Monk Meditations and Monk Movements, and teased that he and his team are exploring other opportunities to share live music. “There’s much more to come,” he wrote, “and I’m looking forward to what’s ahead.”

The Stooges were known for their chaotic live performances and, with help from David Bowie, underwent a rebrand that produced one of rock’s most recognizable tracks, “Search and Destroy.”

While fans were clinging to the band in the late 60s, The Stooges quickly found themselves dropped from their record label and subsequently broke up. In 1971, Bowie would track down Iggy Pop in the notorious back bar of NYC’s Max’s Kansas City and would become their firm supporter in a new chapter of their career.

The band went through a major lineup change, with Iggy and guitarist James Williamson looking for new members, as Bowie helped them secure a new record deal. After failed attempts, they brought back original members Ron and Scott Asheton and reformed the band under the new name Iggy and the Stooges.

One of their first big hits was "Search and Destroy," written by Iggy when he was 25 years old alongside Williamson, with Bowie serving as its producer. The title was coined after the military phrase and was actually inspired by the Vietnam War that had taken hold of a lot of rock tracks at the time. Entertainment Weekly ranked the track as one of the best rock songs of all time, commenting its an "urgent, propulsive song with a raw spirit and some of Pop’s most super-charged writing with deceptively simple lyrics about love and war, dripping with desperation."

Williamson commented that Iggy was inspired by a Time magazine article about the war, as the frontman was reading a lot about it in the papers at the time.

"The lyrics, I just sorta took out of Time magazine, the concept of search and destroy. I used to read Time obsessively, because they were the representatives of the ultimate establishment to me. They were giving the party line that represented the power people and the powers that be. So I kinda liked to look in there and see what they were talking about, and then I'd use that inventory in other ways. That's what I was doing in that song," said Iggy to Clash magazine in 2010.

The track gained attention not only for its lyrics referencing napalm, nuclear bombs, firefights, and radiation, but also for its distinguishable sounds that mimic war. Besides the sound of clashing swords, Williamson developed its iconic "bum, bum" sound that he said occurred while he was goofing off during rehearsal, making a machine gun sound.

"Well, I had come up with kind of that 'bum bum bum bum bum bum bum' a little bit, but it was more in regard to imitating a machine gun, if you will. Because this is the era of the Vietnam War. And so we were kind of screwing around with that, and that's where that figure comes from. Then the rest of the song was around that. But I think the beginning, the 'bum bum bum bum bum bum bum, bum bum bum bum bum bum bum,' that part was the thing that really kicked off that song," said Williamson to SongFacts.

"Search and Destroy" would become one of rock's staple hits, despite having never entered the charts or getting radio airplay.

Related: 1971 Rock Song, With a Trademark Guitar Riff by Keith Richards, Is Still a Powerful Hit 55 Years Later

There's nothing quite like an ice-cold lemonade on a hot summer day. It's sweet, tart, refreshing and pretty hard to mess with. But after seeing a drink called Ocean Water Lemonade making the rounds online, I knew I had to try the bright blue version for myself.

Luckily, it didn't require much work. I grabbed everything I needed, filled a big cup with ice and had my own Ocean Water Lemonade ready to drink in just a few minutes.

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And yes, it tastes as good as it looks. Mine was icy cold, refreshing and just the right amount of sweet, with a tropical flavor that makes it perfect for summer. The bubbles make it even more refreshing, and there's something undeniably fun about drinking a lemonade that's bright blue.

I can easily see myself making this one again on a hot afternoon, but it would be just as fun to serve at a summer barbecue or pool party. You can make one big glass when the craving hits, or mix up a pitcher for your next get-together.

Here's how to make Ocean Water Lemonade at home, along with a few tips I picked up while making mine.

What Actually Is Ocean Water? (The Flavor Profile) Dads of Reddit, how would you go bra shopping for your daughter?
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Despite the name, there's no actual ocean water in this drink. The "Ocean Water" part gets its name from Sonic's Ocean Water drink, which has a sweet, citrusy and tropical coconut flavor.

The viral lemonade version has that same summery feel, but with more tartness and a little more going on than the original. Mine was sweet, bubbly and ice-cold, with fresh citrus and hints of coconut in every sip.

The bright blue color certainly doesn't hurt either. It looks like something you'd want to drink by the pool or at the beach, which is part of the fun. I wasn't expecting it to taste as good as it did, especially considering how easy it is to make.

Related: I Asked 3 Chefs the Secret Ingredient to the Best-Ever Lemonade, and They All Said the Same Thing

The 4-Ingredient Viral Hack (Plus One Secret for Balance)

Courtesy Fred Hernandez

For my Ocean Water Lemonade, I started by squeezing one lemon into a large cup, then dropped the lemon right in. Next, I added 1/2-cup of blue Powerade, 1/2-cup of Sprite and 3/4 ounce of coconut syrup, followed by plenty of ice.

My extra ingredient is 1/4 cup of plain sparkling water. There's already plenty of sweetness from the Powerade, Sprite and coconut syrup, and the sparkling water adds more bubbles without making the drink any sweeter. I gently stirred everything together so I didn't lose too much of the carbonation.

How to Scale: Single Glass vs. Summer Party Pitcher

Klaus Vedfelt / Getty Images

The recipe above makes one large glass, but it's easy to scale up if you're making Ocean Water Lemonade for a summer party. For about six servings, use 3 cups blue Powerade, 3 cups Sprite, 1 1/2-cups plain sparkling water, 9 tablespoons coconut syrup and the juice of 6 lemons.

Mix the Powerade, coconut syrup and fresh lemon juice in your pitcher first, then add the Sprite and sparkling water shortly before serving so they stay bubbly. I also recommend keeping the ice out of the pitcher and adding it to each glass instead. That way, the whole batch won't get watered down as the ice melts.

Related: I Tried the Viral 'Coca-Cola Lemonade', and It's My New Favorite Mocktail

5 Ways to 'Dress Up' Your Blue Drink

Anhelina Chumak / Getty Images

Once you have the basic Ocean Water Lemonade down, there are plenty of ways to make it your own.

1. Add a lemon wheel.

The easiest option is also one you already have on hand. Cut a wheel or wedge from your fresh lemon, and add it to the rim of the glass.

2. Toss in some gummy sharks.

For something a little more playful, add a few gummy sharks to the glass, or serve them on the side. The ocean theme practically writes itself, and it's especially fun if you're making these for a summer party.

3. Add a maraschino cherry.

A bright red maraschino cherry pops against the blue drink and adds a little extra sweetness. Drop one into the glass, or skewer it with a lemon wedge for an easy garnish.

4. Give the rim a coconut twist.

If you really love the coconut flavor, coat the rim of your glass with shredded coconut. Rub a lemon wedge around the edge first to help the shredded coconut stick, then pour in your Ocean Water lemonade and plenty of ice.

5. Mix up the bubbles.

I used plain sparkling water, but you can swap it for a lemon- or lime-flavored version for an extra hint of citrus. Coconut sparkling water would also fit right in if you want to bring out more of the coconut flavor.

The 'Spiked' Ocean Water: Adult Variations

Jordan Lye / Getty Images

Ocean Water Lemonade is also incredibly easy to turn into a cocktail. Add a shot of vodka if you want to keep the original lemon-coconut flavor mostly unchanged. Give everything a good stir, and taste before adding any more coconut syrup.

Coconut rum is another good choice, especially if the coconut is your favorite part of the drink. Since it adds more sweetness along with the coconut flavor, I recommend squeezing in a little extra fresh lemon to keep the drink from becoming too sweet.

Final Thoughts

I wasn't sure what to expect when I mixed blue Powerade, Sprite, fresh lemon and coconut syrup together, but this is one viral drink I'll definitely make again. It's icy cold, bubbly, sweet and refreshing, with just enough coconut and fresh lemon to balance everything out. If this is what ocean water tastes like, I'm ready for another glass.

Related: I Tried TikTok's Viral Espresso Lemonade—and I Can't Believe It Actually Works

On Sept. 5, 2001, eleven teams of two gathered at Bethesda Fountain in Central Park, eager to kick off a life-changing race around the world. And, behind the camera, the brains behind The Amazing Race would have no idea the journey they were about to go on. A quarter of a century later, the CBS reality show has traveled millions of miles, introduced us to almost 800 unique individuals, and has won, to date, 15 Emmy Awards for their handiwork. And the race ain't stopping anytime soon.

On Wednesday, Sept. 30, The Amazing Race will kick off its 39th season. After taking a brief sojourn into the realm of Big Brother last fall, this year's installment will get back to the show's tried-and-true formula, sending 13 teams of various backgrounds, ages, and relationships across the globe. This season's duos run the gamut, from World Cup champions and Olympic soccer players to the first grandparent/grandchild pair in 23 seasons (with a whopping 54-year age gap!). But regardless of where they come from, they all have the same goal in mind: Survive the Detours, Roadblocks, and whatever the race will throw at them; escape elimination at every turn; and cross the finish line in first place to haul in the million-dollar prize.

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Host Phil Keoghan promised in a statement that Season 39 would see "the return of some tried and tested classics." But this edition of the race will kick off with a game-changing first for the show. At the starting line in Vancouver, each team will be given an Express Pass, which allows them to skip one task of their choosing (it's fitting the beginning takes place in Canada, considering the same twist was utilized in the Canadian version of The Amazing Race earlier this year). It's a major departure from how the show has used the twist since its introduction in Season 17, as it's usually been doled out as an advantage that only one or two teams receive. Now everyone has this "get out of jail free" card burning a hole in their fanny pack, and it should add a complex layer of strategy to the high-stakes competition.

After honing in on European exploits last season, The Amazing Race is going global again for Season 39. The teams (and their Express Passes) will travel to five continents, nine countries, 13 cities and more than 25,000 miles. Along the way, they'll jump 200 feet off the catwalk of BC Stadium in Vancouver, walk with camels in Morocco, and fly a paramotor through the skies of Laos. The show will also continue its now seasonal tradition of adding another new country to the fray, this time traveling to Albania. Somewhere, two-time Survivor star Rizo Velovic is seething he didn't make his reality TV debut before the season filmed.

Check out the gallery below to find out more about the 13 teams competing this season. The Amazing Race 39 kicks off with a two-night premiere event on Wednesday, Sept. 30 and Thursday, Oct. 1 at 9:30 p.m. ET on CBS.

Related: CBS Fall 2026 Premiere Dates Are Finally Here! See When Your Favorite Shows Return

The Amazing Race 39 CastAli Krieger and Joanna Lohman Ali Krieger (L) and Joanna Lohman (R) on 'The Amazing Race 39'

Sonja Flemming/CBS

Relationship: Pro athletes and moms
Age: 42 and 44
Occupation: Pro athletes
Current location: Montclair, NJ and Silver Springs, MD

Ali is a two-time World Cup champion, taking home the win for the U.S. Women's National Team (USWNT) in the 2015 and 2019 tournaments. She also played on the American team at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. Ali won the Champions League in 2008 as a part of FFC Frankfurt, as well as the National Women's Soccer League in 2023 with Gotham FC. Joanna played in the NWSL from 2009 to 2018 across four different teams, as well as in the USWNT for eight years. She's also the author of the 2021 book Raising Tomorrow's Champions: What the Women's National Soccer Team Teaches Us About Grit, Authenticity and Winning.

Ann-Marie Tejcek and Riley Tejcek Ann-Marie Tejcek (L) and Riley Tejcek (R) on 'The Amazing Race 39'

Sonja Flemming/CBS

Relationship: Mother and daughter
Age: 56 and 29
Occupation: Healthcare executive and Marine officer
Current location: Carmel, IN and San Diego, CA

Anuar Tager and Andrea Tager Ballesca Anuar Tager (L) and Andrea Tager Ballesca (R) on 'The Amazing Race 39'

Sonja Flemming/CBS

Relationship: Father and daughter
Age: 58 and 25
Occupation: Developer and Medical student
Current Location: Houston, TX

Cody Langlois and Jaime Tribo Cody Langlois (L) and Jaime Tribo (R) on 'The Amazing Race 39'

Sonja Flemming/CBS

Relationship: Siblings
Age: 35 and 33
Occupation: Civil engineer and Dietitian
Current Location: Los Angeles, CA and Tinley Park, IL

Related: 2026 Emmy Awards Outstanding Reality Competition Program Nominees Revealed, and One Fan-Favorite Was Snubbed

Conner Wilson and Garrett McGuire Conner Wilson (L) and Garrett McGuire (R) on 'The Amazing Race 39'

Sonja Flemming/CBS

Relationship: Childhood friends
Age: 27 and 27
Occupation: Media producer and Engineer
Current Location: Loomis, CA and Rocklin, CA

Dafina Dunmore and Saran Dunmore Dafina Dunmore (L) and Saran Dunmore (R) on 'The Amazing Race 39'

Sonja Flemming/CBS

Relationship: Sisters and best friends
Age: 52 and 51
Occupation: Bond analyst/DJ and Personal trainer/founder of Kids Leading Kids
Current Location: Chicago, IL

Daisha Wilks and Dalton Hamby Daisha Wilks (L) and Dalton Hamby (R) on 'The Amazing Race 39'

Sonja Flemming/CBS

Relationship: Dating
Age: 28 and 27
Occupation: Videographers
Current Location: Flat Rock, AL and Jacksonville, AL

Doug Matter and Dylan Matter Doug Matter (L) and Dylan Matter (R) on 'The Amazing Race 39'

Sonja Flemming/CBS

Relationship: Grandfather and grandson
Age: 73 and 19
Occupation: Retired fire chief and College student
Location: San Diego, CA

Related: ‘The Amazing Race 38’ Winners Jas and Jag Bains Reveal the Unseen Discrimination They Faced During Their Historic Journey (Exclusive)

Erin Taylor and Javi Vintimilla Erin Taylor (L) and Javi Vintimilla (R) on 'The Amazing Race 39'

Sonja Flemming/CBS

Relationship: Married
Age: 28 and 30
Occupation: Head of Human Resources and Pilot
Current Location: Fort Lauderdale, FL

Jody Rebhun and Jenn Naso Jody Rebhun (L) and Jenn Naso (R) on 'The Amazing Race 39'

Sonja Flemming/CBS

Relationship: Best friends and moms
Age: 44 and 44
Occupation: History teacher and Forensic scientist
Current Location: Branford, CT and Larchmont, NY

Katie and Charlotte Schultz Katie Schultz (L) and Charlotte Schultz (R) on 'The Amazing Race 39'

Sonja Flemming/CBS

Relationship: Sisters
Age: 26 and 20
Occupation: Estheticians
Current Location: Murray, KY

Michelle and Matthew Patterson Michelle Patterson (L) and Matthew Patterson (R) on 'The Amazing Race 39'

Sonja Flemming/CBS

Relationship: Married parents
Age: 31 and 36
Occupation: Auto body shop owner/real estate agent and Business operations director
Current Location: Rutherford, NJ

Zach and Nate Johnson Zach Johnson (L) and Nate Johnson (R) on 'The Amazing Race 39'

Sonja Flemming/CBS

Relationship: Brothers
Age: 30 and 27
Occupation: Car salesman/co-founder of Pipley and Director of sales
Current Location: Dallas, TX

Related: Phil Keoghan Teases New Twists and a ‘Special Personal Moment’ Coming to 'The Amazing Race' (Exclusive)

There is a lot that needs to get done on Wednesday night’s MasterChef: Global Gauntlet when the remaining 10 home cooks were given the classic Tag Team Challenge, but with a twist! They had to recreate dishes selected by judges Gordon Ramsay, Tiffany Derry and Joe Bastianich and two chefs would be going home.

The dish selected by Gordon for the teams to replicate was an iconic Shepherd’s Pie, Tiffany chose Striped Bass and Dirty Rice, and Joe went with Veal Milanese. The ingredients for each entrée were laid out for the teams so there was no guessing.

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Here's how the teams broke down:

• Grey team: Peter and Tkaiya
• Pink team: Dave and Jake
• Blue team: Heidi and Julia
• Yellow team: Baisa and Foo
• Red team: Jaime and Aishu

In this sneak peek of tonight's “Tag Team” episode, the duos struggle to finish the cook in the last 30 seconds. As we watch them scramble, it’s clear that some of them are concentrating on the wrong things and their finished dishes won’t match up perfectly.

The Grey team and the Pink team seem to be happy with their results, but will their dishes stand up to scrutiny, while the Blue team’s Heidi and Julia are worried because they didn’t get their green sauce on. And the Yellow team were concerned that they had burnt their veal.

Who will be eliminated? Tune in when MasterChef airs tonight at 8 p.m. ET/PT on FOX. Streams next day on Hulu.

Next,  MasterChef Returns With an International Theme for Season 16 in 2026 — What to Know

Arby’s is bringing back one of its most anticipated limited-time menu items, and this time, there’s a new way to order it.

Steak Nuggets return to Arby’s on August 24, bringing back the steakhouse-inspired bites fans loved with an updated cut and a brand-new dipping sauce.

The returning favorite features tender pieces of steak seasoned with garlic and pepper for a smoky, savory flavor. This time around, Arby’s says the Steak Nuggets have an improved cut, along with new Horsey Ranch sauce for dipping.

Fans can order the Steak Nuggets in several sizes, whether they want a quick snack or enough to share. They're available in 5-count and 9-count orders, while the 20-count party pack comes with two large fries for a bigger meal.

But the biggest surprise might be the new Steak Nugget Potato Bowl.

The limited-time bowl takes the Steak Nuggets and piles them on top of crispy golden potatoes, then adds melty cheese for a steak-and-potatoes combination in a new format.

It's essentially Arby’s take on the classic steakhouse meal, only in a bowl and with plenty of dipping potential.

The return is limited-time only, so fans who missed Steak Nuggets the first time—or simply want to see whether the updated version lives up to the hype—will want to keep August 24 on their calendars.

RELATED: Target’s New Halloween Treats Have One Very Unexpected Pick

Cliff Richard and the Drifters’ “Move It” is often called the first authentic British rock ’n’ roll record, and some would say one of the best. Like many great songs from the genre, it came together almost on the spot. Ian Samwell reportedly wrote it in just 20 minutes on the top deck of a Green Line bus. 

In 1958, Samwell was on his way to the home of 17-year-old Harry Webb, the singer who soon became known as Cliff Richard, when the song came to him. As the 50th-anniversary album’s liner notes recall, “his first hit was written in 20 minutes by his group’s rhythm guitarist on the top deck of a bus.” 

At the time, Webb was still a teenager fronting a young band that had grown out of Britain’s skiffle craze. He had first played with the Dick Teague Skiffle Group before leaving with drummer Terry Smart to start a band that leaned more heavily into rock ’n’ roll. 

By early 1958, the group had taken the name the Drifters, not realizing it was already in use by a famous American group. After playing around North London, they landed at the 2i’s Coffee Bar in the West End, where they met Samwell. 

It was Samwell who also came up with a new stage name for Webb. “Cliff” was chosen for its rock ’n’ roll feel, while “Richard” was partly a nod to Little Richard. 

The young band soon caught the attention of EMI A&R man Norrie Paramor, who invited them to audition. Paramor subsequently signed Richard and booked the group for an evening recording session at EMI’s Abbey Road Studio Two on July 24, 1958. 

The original plan was for “Schoolboy Crush” to be the A side, with Samwell’s “Move It” on the flip side. But after television producer Jack Good heard the songs, he picked “Move It” for Richard to perform on his new youth music show, Oh Boy!. The decision led EMI to have the two tracks swap sides.

Released on August 29, 1958, “Move It” became Richard’s debut hit, reaching No. 2 on the U.K. singles chart. The record transformed the 17-year-old into one of Britain’s first major homegrown rock ’n’ roll stars. 

The song also caught the attention of other young musicians. John Lennonlater singled out “Move It” as the first English record that came close to matching the impact of American rock ’n’ roll, saying that before it, “there’d been nothing.”

Rock historian Pete Frame echoed the view of rock ’n’ roll purists in The Restless Generation, writing that “even the rock’n’roll cognoscenti, those purists who refused anything non-American on principle, had to admit that this was a fantastic record.”

For the young musicians coming of age in Britain, “Move It” showed what was possible. Led Zeppelin later included the song on The Music That Rocked Us, a compilation celebrating their musical influences. 

Freddie Mercury was reportedly inspired by Richard’s performances, while Stingpraised Richard as “one of Britain's finest singers technically and emotionally.” 

Related: 1967 Motown Song, Written by Smokey Robinson, Launched a Young Band’s Career

James Haven is opening up about the phone call he wasn't sure he was ready to receive after publicly coming out as gay.

The 53-year-old actor, who is the son of Jon Voight and late actress Marcheline Bertrand and the older brother of Angelina Jolie, recently came out during a live video stream last Thursday. Days later, on Wednesday, August 12, Haven and his ex-wife Romi Imbelli appeared on All Out With Jon Dean, where he revealed how his famous father responded.

Haven admitted that he had been anxiously waiting to hear from Voight after his announcement began making headlines. He said his father repeatedly called him for roughly 15 minutes before he finally answered.

“I finally pick up the phone after like 15 minutes of trying to call me, and I'm just like, hey,” Haven recalled. Then came the words he wasn't expecting: “I finally know who you are.”

Haven said he was stunned by the comment, but the conversation that followed was unexpectedly positive. “All of a sudden we had like this really nice chat,” he recalled. “I did not expect that phone call,” he remembers saying to Imbelli at the time.

The response was surprising to Haven considering his explanation for why he waited until his 50s to publicly come out. When Dean asked whether fear of rejection from his father contributed to the decision, Haven pointed to years of trauma and said he had experienced “some of the worst mental abuse,” including “really horrible things said about me at different times in my life.”

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Haven initially announced he was gay during a livestream shared on Substack with Imbelli, explaining that coming out wasn't about “becoming someone new,” but “allowing everyone else to meet the person who has been here all along.”

Imbelli, whom Haven married in 2024 before filing for an annulment 15 days later, remains firmly in his corner. She said the pair still want “to do life together,” while giving each other the freedom to be themselves.

Haven is also preparing to launch his weekly podcast, Safe Haven with James Haven, per Page Six. At this time, a release date has not been announced.

Are you meant to thrive in your second act in life? Not everyone's best chapter comes first. For some people, the version of themselves that finally clicks — the career, the relationship, the sense of self — doesn't show up until after they've already lived, lost, and rebuilt once. With time comes perspective. With perspective, wisdom follows, along with intentionally becoming the architect of your own reality.

According to astrologers, four birth months in particular are wired for exactly that kind of second act, the one that ends up meaning more than the first: people with birthdays in February, May, September, and December. Later in life, they are most likely to find blessings, rejuvenation, and alignment with their true lifestyle.

Which Birth Months Thrive in Their Second Act of Life?

Check for your birth month below.

February — The Late Bloomer

Elimination through trial and error

There's a certain restlessness that comes with being born in February. Whether you're an independent Aquarius or a dreamy Pisces, your early years rarely go as planned — the wrong job, the wrong relationship, the version of you that looked good on paper but never actually fit. Rather than viewing this time of your life as a failure, it's truly all about research and experimentation. By the time your second act rolls around, you already know exactly who you're not, which makes it a whole lot easier to become a match with who and what you truly are.

FUN: From Dragon Fruit to Mangosteen, Here's the Exotic Fruit That Matches Your Birth Month

May — Slow to Build, Built to Last

Patience and alignment over speed

People born in May build slowly. Maybe too slowly at times, if you ask the people around you. But as a steady Taurus or a curious Gemini, you've never been in a rush to get it right. Why rush when you're looking to align with something true? Your second act isn't a reaction to something falling apart. It's simply what happens once you finally know what you want instead of what looked good at 25. Whatever you build the second time tends to last, because by then, you've stopped guessing or second-guessing your intuition. Indecision becomes concentration. People-pleasing is replaced with intentionally building a life that reflects your core values.

September — Perfectionist No More

Self-acceptance replaces perfectionism

Whether you're a meticulous Virgo or a balanced Libra, chances are your first act was spent quietly holding yourself to a standard nobody else even noticed. Perfection has a way of doing that. So what changes? Somewhere along the way, you finally let yourself off the hook. Your inner critic becomes easier to challenge and silence. When you decide to question your negative thoughts, that's when the real work starts showing up. For people born in September, your second act features more self-acceptance of both your strengths and flaws, finding perfection in the imperfect.

READ: The 4 Birth Dates That Make the Best Travel Companions

December — The Gambler Who Finally Cashes In

Passionate risk-taking that matures into consistent follow-through

As an adventurous Sagittarius or a disciplined Capricorn, your first act is usually built on big bets — leaps of faith, bold moves, trusting that things would work out before you had any proof they would. Some paid off. Plenty didn't. Your second act isn't about becoming more cautious. Rather, it's about finally having the discipline to back your instincts with follow-through. The same optimism that once felt reckless starts looking a lot more like vision, because now you actually finish what you start. Instead of running from commitment when things get real, you find excitement in making the mundane magic.

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