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The Animated 8-Foot Skeleton You'll See Everywhere This Halloween—But Hurry, It's Selling Fast!

Mon, 08/03/2026 - 1:11pm

If there's one Halloween decorating trend that refuses to die (pun intended), it's the giant outdoor yard skeleton. What started as a standout outdoor Halloween decoration has become a full-blown Halloween tradition, and for 2026, it's back and in a big way.

The appeal of this ongoing Halloween trend is easy to understand. Large yard skeletons instantly create a dramatic focal point, they're fun to decorate throughout the season, and they hit just the right balance of spooky and playful.

So if you're only planning to add one new outdoor Halloween decoration to your collection this year, this Animated Yard Skeleton from Grandin Road is the one to make room for. Standing an impressive 8 feet tall, not only is it hard to miss, but it has a few special features that make it stand out from the competition. 

This animated 8-foot yard skeleton makes for the perfect outdoor Halloween decor.

Grandin Road

Motion-Sensor Animation Brings This Outdoor Halloween Decor to Life

While this striking outdoor Halloween decor looks good from afar, the real fun begins when someone walks by. A built-in motion sensor activates the skeleton’s animated eyes, while the skeleton's jaw opens and closes as it delivers one of four spooky—but family-friendly—greetings when people pass by.

Poseable Limbs Lead to Infinite Possibilities 

Because the arms are poseable, you can also customize its personality from year to year. Have it wave to trick-or-treaters, hold a lantern, point toward your candy bowl, or incorporate it into a larger haunted graveyard scene. It's one of those decorations that's just as fun to style as it is to display.

This Halloween Yard Decor is Built to Handle All Sorts of Weather

Outdoor Halloween decorations have to do more than look good—they also need to survive unpredictable fall weather. This animated skeleton is designed for indoor or outdoor use and plugs into a standard outlet for continuous power throughout the season. A sturdy base helps keep it standing while entertaining trick-or-treaters night after night.

More Than a Skeleton—Its a Living Halloween Legacy

Best of all, this epic 8-foot animated yard skeleton has the potential to make your house one of the neighborhood favorites. Trick-or-treaters will remember the towering skeleton that greeted them at the end of the walkway, and neighbors may even start looking forward to seeing what you do with it next Halloween. Whether you dress it up for different themes, add new props each October, or simply let it stand watch over your front porch, it's the kind of outdoor Halloween decoration that quickly becomes part of your home's Halloween tradition. And since this Halloween trend is here to stay, it’s one you’ll be glad you invested in.

Fans Are Stunned by Alicia Silverstone’s Son Bear’s Striking Resemblance to His Famous Mom

Mon, 08/03/2026 - 1:09pm

Alicia Silverstone's long-haired son, Bear, is a dead ringer for his movie star mom.

Silverstone, 49, rose to stardom as the beloved teen Cher Horowitz in the 1995 film Clueless alongside Elisa Donovan and Brittany Murphy. While Silverstone went on to several other diverse roles in the years that followed, her role in Clueless has served as a staple of film history.

In a new photo set, Silverstone shared a set of shots that show just how much Bear looks like her. In the first shot, Silverstone posted a throwback photo of herself in a tree back in the day. In the second, Bear lies on a heavy branch of a tree with his long hair tied up in a bun. But it's the youngster's face that shockingly resembles his actress mom. From the eyes to the smile, Bear looks just like his mom!

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Silverstone Will Reprise Her Clueless Role

Last week, Variety reported that the much-anticipated Clueless sequel series, which will have Silverstone reprising her most famous role, has been greenlit at Paramount+. With a six-episode order and production set to start in Los Angeles in 2027, we're set to see Silverstone back in action soon.

 According to the logline, the series, which is set in the present day, is as follows: “Beloved Beverly Hills icon Cher Horowitz (Silverstone) has figured out a lot: She’s successful in business and has mastered motherhood—that is, until her daughter’s high school years, and Cher finds that parenting a teenager makes her feel ‘clueless’ all over again.”

In Clueless speak, we're totally buggin'.

Silverstone Appeared as Cher Horowitz in 2023

Back in 2023, Silverstone reprised her role as the iconic Cher Horowitz for Rakuten's Super Bowl commercial. Silverstone teamed up with friend and frequent colleague Christian Siriano for the campaign, which was titled “Not So Clueless.” Sporting a yellow plaid skirt set, Silverstone jumped back into costume with ease.

"My QUEEN CHER is coming back and I can’t wait for it!!
congratulations to my beautiful muse @aliciasilverstone Remaking this for you was one of my favorite memories ever! #happyfri̇day," Siriano just posted when the news hit that Silverstone would be reprising her role.

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Related: ‘Clueless’ Star Jeremy Sisto, 51, Hit the Red Carpet and We Didn’t Even Recognize Him

Werther's Original Releases 5 Limited-Edition Flavors of Its Iconic Caramel Candy for Fall

Mon, 08/03/2026 - 1:08pm

Werther's Original is gently ushering in the next season with the release of five fall flavors of its iconic caramel candies. The brand is bringing back a handful of fan favorites, and they've already been spotted on store shelves.

This year, Werther's Original is reviving one hard candy flavor, along with four soft caramels, and they're perfect for fall festivals, trick-or-treating, and everything in between. Arriving in stores are Caramel Apple hard candies, described as "creamy, smooth caramel candies swirled with the taste of caramel-dipped apples," Pumpkin Spice and Caramel Apple soft caramels, and Maple Crème and Cinnamon Crème soft caramels, both filled with a delightful flavored center.

Trusted food blogger Markie Devo announced the revival in an Instagram post on Sunday, Aug. 2, and the news was met with excitement by shoppers eager to grab a few bags for themselves.

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"The pumpkin spice one was so good last year 😍," one person remembered in the comments section of the post, while another called them "The best 🤩" and a third simply celebrated, exclaiming, "Yayy!!!"

Two more fans of the treats wrote, "Love the maple 🍁" and "Maple Cream Caramels Sounds So Delightful!. Can’t Wait!. ✅"

Meanwhile, someone else wasted no time snatching some of the goodies up, confirming the purchase is already complete: "Just bought pumpkin spice and caramel apple soft chews! 😍"

Werther's Originals Harvest Caramels Collection is available at Walmart, in stores and online.

As Parade previously reported, the classic candy company kicked off National Caramel Month last October with a collection of fall-inspired tumbler-style travel mugs. A month later, it announced it was “capturing the essence of the holidays" with a tasty holiday collection, including seasonal Gingerbread and Cookie Butter Crème Caramels.

Next, Chobani's Brand-New Coffee Creamer Flavor Is a Tasty Twist on a Global Food Trend

Rachael Ray's Ceramic Baking Dishes Are Like 'Little Boats' For Serving Sides, Dips, and Appetizers

Mon, 08/03/2026 - 1:01pm

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I was today years old when I found out that Rachael Ray has a kitchenware line available at Walmart. As a fan of the Food Network darling since the days of 30 Minute Meals and $40 a Day back in the early aughts, uncovering these hidden gems unleashed a wave of nostalgia. Many of the dishes look super similar to what Ray would use on set, whipping up those tasty, wholesome dinners in under half an hour — a feat I still struggle to accomplish. The bakeware in particular is sleek and streamlined, but with a pop of color that would look fantastic in the center of a table. 

Though the pieces are already affordably priced, one set of ceramic baking dishes is currently on sale for a rare 50% off, and it's definitely worth considering if you're into serving piping hot casseroles and sides straight from the oven to the table. Normally $44, the Rachael Ray Ceramics Oval Au Gratin Set is now just $22 at Walmart. This two-piece set is available in a beautiful agave blue and a chic sea salt light gray. Beyond their namesake potato side dish, these baking dishes are perfect for individual portions of meatloaf and French onion soup, but they work equally well as vessels for dips and crudites when you're serving a crowd. 

Rachael Ray Ceramics Oval Au Gratin Set, $22 (was $44) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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Measuring 8.5 inches long and 4.75 inches wide, each of these baking dishes boasts a 12-ounce capacity. If you're serving something saucy, you won't have to worry about anything sloshing over the 2.5-inch tall sides. Ergonomic handles on either end are built right into the design, allowing you to move the dishes from your oven to the table effortlessly — just make sure you're wearing oven mitts!

Crafted for durability, these dishes are oven-safe up to 500 degrees and can be put in the freezer and microwave. The ceramic design features a high-gloss, stain-resistant coating that allows for easy cleanup after sticky or cheesy meals. They're also dishwasher-safe, so you shouldn't have to spend time scrubbing any sort of baked-on mess.

Walmart shoppers were impressed by the "cute" look of these dishes, noting that they're as "elegant" for entertaining as they are useful for everyday meals. As one customer put it, "you can use these dishes for everything." Dubbed "great for smaller meals or side dishes," reviewers also said these "little boats" are "very easy to clean."

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Related: The Pioneer Woman's Retro-Style Turquoise Toaster Looks 'Pretty' on a Countertop and 'Toasts to Perfection'

Who knew that all those years after she graced our televisions with her simple, easy meals, Rachael Ray would resurface in our kitchens with effortless entertaining essentials? Snag the Rachael Ray Ceramics Oval Au Gratin Set while it's on sale at Walmart for just $22.

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The Movie You'd Rent at Blockbuster, Based on Your Birth Month

Mon, 08/03/2026 - 1:00pm

If you grew up in the '80s or '90s, or raised children in the '80s or '90s, a Friday night trip to Blockbuster felt like an event. You'd wander the aisles, argue over what to watch, grab a box of microwave popcorn, and hope someone hadn't already rented the last copy of the movie you wanted. And if you were lucky enough to find it sitting on the shelf, carrying home that familiar blue-and-yellow VHS case felt like hitting the jackpot.

If Blockbuster were still around today, here's the movie your birth month would probably head straight for, according to the month you were born. Expert astrologer MaKayla McRae pairs each birth month with a nostalgic Blockbuster flick.

Each Birth Month as a Blockbuster Movie

Check for your birth month. It's hard to explain to anyone who has never rented a VHS tape just how much fun those Friday night Blockbuster trips could be. Half the excitement was wandering the aisles, hoping your first choice was still sitting on the shelf. Whether you headed home with an action movie, a comedy, or a family favorite, the best part usually wasn't the tape itself—it was the people you watched it with. Some memories never need a rewind.

January – The Shawshank Redemption

January-born people appreciate stories about determination, patience, and never giving up. A film that reminds them perseverance pays off is always worth rewinding. Whether you're a disciplined Capricorn or an imaginative Aquarius, you admire people who keep moving forward no matter the odds.

NEXT: Your Birth Month Reveals What You’re Finally Leaving Behind This August

February – Back to the Future

As an innovative Aquarius or a compassionate Pisces, you're naturally drawn to stories that challenge the imagination like Back to the Future. February-borns carry imagination, big ideas, and ask, "What if?" A time-travel adventure with unforgettable characters is exactly the kind of movie that keeps this birth month entertained from beginning to end.

March – Dirty Dancing

If you were born in March, there's a good chance you'd walk straight to the shelf looking for Dirty Dancing. It's the kind of movie that's easy to watch over and over, whether it's for the music, the romance, or those scenes everyone can quote by heart. Even after all these years, it still feels like a Friday night favorite. Born under a compassionate Pisces or a fearless Aries, you know how to follow your heart while embracing new adventures.

April – Top Gun

With an adventurous Aries or a dependable Taurus personality, you're naturally drawn to confidence, determination, and a little excitement. April-born people would probably grab Top Gun before anyone else had the chance. Fast jets, unforgettable one-liners, and plenty of action make it the perfect choice for someone who likes a little excitement mixed into movie night. Besides, some films never get old.

May – Forrest Gump

Resonating with either a grounded Taurus or a curious Gemini, this birth month appreciates life's simple moments and the stories that stay with you. And there's something about Forrest Gump that never loses its charm. May-born people will appreciate its mix of humor, heart, and memorable moments that get even better with every viewing. It's the kind of VHS tape you'd rewind, slide back into the case, and already be looking forward to watching again.

June – You've Got Mail

Attuned as a lively Gemini or a caring Cancer, you enjoy stories built around friendship, family, and love. June-born people are all about connection and relationships. You've Got Mail is a feel-good classic that is the kind of movie they could happily watch again and again.

July – The Lion King

Family, loyalty, and following your heart make this a perfect match for those born in July. It's one of those movies that still feels just as special today as it did on VHS. Whether you're a nurturing Cancer or a confident Leo, you cherish the people who matter most.

August – Jurassic Park

Guided by either a bold Leo or a hardworking Virgo, you enjoy excitement mixed with a little ambition. Those born in August like excitement, adventure, and stories that keep everyone glued to the screen. Dinosaurs running loose? That's an unforgettable Friday night rental!

September – Dead Poets Society

As an analytical Virgo or a balanced Libra, you enjoy stories that make you see life a little differently. September-born people enjoy movies that leave them thinking long after the credits roll. They appreciate stories with meaning, memorable characters, and a little inspiration.

READ: Your Go-To Motivation Song, Based on Your Birth Date

October – Hocus Pocus

Either a charming Libra or a mysterious Scorpio, you're drawn to a little magic and a lot of fun. People born in October practically embody the essence of cozy movie nights and comforting traditions. Hocus Pocus is the kind of VHS tape they'd happily wear out from watching every fall.

November – The Green Mile

November appreciates stories with emotional depth and unforgettable characters. This is the kind of movie that stays with them long after it's over. With an intense Scorpio or an adventurous Sagittarius personality, you're drawn to powerful stories that leave a lasting impression.

RELATE?: The 4 Birth Months That Need Alone Time to Recharge

December – Home Alone

For December-born people, nothing beats a movie that brings back happy memories. Home Alone has become a tradition for generations, making it the first VHS they'd reach for during the festive season. Incarnated as an adventurous Sagittarius or a determined Capricorn, you're always ready for a little fun, especially when it means making memories with people you love.

UP NEXT:

Loungefly Unveils Ultimate Nostalgia Product Line Every '90s and '00s Disney Fan Needs

Mon, 08/03/2026 - 12:43pm

The massive, celebrated biennial fan event focused on all things Disney, D23, is right around the corner, taking place from Aug. 14 to 16 this year, and among this year's D23 exclusive offerings is a brand-new Loungefly product line that will have '90s and '00s Disney fans feeling all the nostalgia.

Heavily featured among these new products are some of the most popular Disney movies of that era, from Cars and Beauty and the Beast to Lilo & Stitch and Toy Story. For those looking for even deeper Disney nostalgia, these exclusives also include callbacks to movies like The Fox and the Hound and Winnie-the-Pooh.

In fact, some of the new products even blend these classic films together, such as with the Loungefly backpack, pins and wallet featuring the beloved Cars character Mater styled as the iconic Toy Story characters Buzz Lightyear and Woody.

Loungefly

The Lilo & Stitch D23 exclusive backpacks feature a host of characters from the 2002 movie, including Stitch himself, as well as Jumba and Pleakley, the latter of whom is wearing his wig and fruit-decorated hat that audiences know and love. This Loungefly collection also includes pins that feature the same design as the backpacks.

Loungefly

Additional products in this exclusive D23 product line include a backpack depicting Belle from Beauty and the Beast in front of a library, a backpack in the shape of the anthropomorphic clock Cogsworth, a Winnie-the-Pooh coin purse of Winnie sleeping, a Winnie-the-Pooh backpack decorated with a sleeping Winnie as well as Heffalumps and Woozles, a Fox and the Hound backpack featuring best friends Todd and Copper and so much more.

Loungefly

For guests attending D23 this year, these Loungefly exclusives will be available for purchase at booth 4837, while supplies last. However, even those who aren't attending the event have a chance to purchase these nostalgia-packed products by accessing the pre-authorization process. Specifically, guests can pre-authorize their credit cards for their exclusives of choice for a chance to shop that item. The pre-authorization window will be open from Aug. 10 at 9 a.m. PT to Aug. 13 at 11:59 p.m. PT.

Pre-authorization winners will be chosen at 12 a.m. PT on Aug. 14 and will be notified via email. If any items remain after that process, they will become available to shop on Aug 14. on loungefly.com.

Ella Langley Leads Country Music to Billboard First That Has Never Happened Before

Mon, 08/03/2026 - 12:28pm

Ella Langley continues one of the most remarkable chart runs of 2026.

According to Billboard, her smash hit "Choosin' Texas" spends a 16th consecutive week at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, tying for the fourth-longest reign in the chart's nearly 68-year history. Only Mariah Carey's "All I Want for Christmas Is You" (22 weeks), Shaboozey's "A Bar Song (Tipsy)" (19 weeks) and Lil Nas X's "Old Town Road" featuring Billy Ray Cyrus (19 weeks) have spent more time atop the all-genre chart.

But even bigger than Langley's latest milestone is the record it helped create.

Country Music is Dominating the Billboard Hot 100

For the first time in Billboard Hot 100 history, country songs occupy the entire Top 5.

Langley's "Choosin' Texas" holds at No. 1, followed by Morgan Wallen's new single "Been by Now" at No. 2. Taylor Swift's "I Knew It, I Knew You" sits at No. 3, Langley and Wallen's duet "I Can't Love You Anymore" remains at No. 4, and Stella Lefty's breakthrough hit "Boston" rounds out the Top 5 at No. 5.

Until now, country had never swept all five positions on the Hot 100. Billboard notes the genre had reached four of the Top 5 during two weeks in July 2026, but this marks the first complete takeover.

Langley's Historic Year Continues

The latest achievement adds another chapter to Langley's remarkable breakout year.

Beyond leading the Hot 100 for a 16th week, "Choosin' Texas" also remains No. 1 on Billboard's Hot Country Songs chart for a 34th week, tying for the third-longest reign in that chart's history. The song is also spending its ninth week atop the Songs of the Summer chart.

Billboard also highlighted another unusual accomplishment involving Langley and Wallen. Along with holding the top two positions individually, the pair also occupies No. 4 together with "I Can't Love You Anymore." According to Billboard, it's only the fourth time in Hot 100 history that two artists have each had solo songs in the Top 5 while also sharing a collaboration there simultaneously, and the first time it's happened with country music.

For a genre that has steadily grown its presence on the Hot 100 over the past several years, this week's chart represents a landmark moment. Thanks to Langley, Wallen, Swift and Lefty, country music has officially accomplished something no genre lineup ever had before on Billboard's flagship chart.

Related: Ella Langley's Next Big Hit Is Rapidly Climbing the Charts

Beloved ‘80s Music Icon Breaks Silence on First Wife’s Tragic Death While Embracing Fatherhood at 64

Mon, 08/03/2026 - 12:26pm

Roland Orzabal, known as lead singer and guitarist for the band Tears for Fears, is opening up about the tragic death of his first wife in his new memoir.

Orzabal, 64, best known for hits like “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” and “Shout,” speaks candidly in his new memoir, Welcome to Your Life. While Orzabal has found happiness as a new dad these days, the struggles he experienced in the past were significant. In the memoir, Orzabal discusses the devastating 2017 death of Caroline, his wife of 35 years. She died at 54 following alcohol-related dementia

“I wanted to start with that because it fundamentally changed my life,” Orzabal told PEOPLE. “It was something that I don’t think you ever really come to terms with. I also wanted to start with that because it bled automatically into my new relationship [with my now-wife Emily Rath]. The point of that chapter is, ‘Did the decision I made prompt the outcome?’ A lot of people are going to miss that because it doesn’t sound like it’s possible. But if you believe that thought can create your life, then it’s an interesting question.”

Scott Dudelson / Getty Images

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Orzabal Welcomed a New Baby at 64

Last year, Orzabal and his wife, Emily Rath Orzabal, then 38, welcomed their first child together. Rath Orzabal confirmed the pregnancy earlier in the summer with an adorable photo of herself cradling her pregnant belly while standing at the base of a rocky wall. (It has since been deleted.) However, it turns out that one of Orzabal’s bandmates was the one who let the news slip to the press of the baby’s arrival. The previous month, his bandmate Curt Smith confirmed in an interview with Vulture that the baby arrived in August.

“We were going to tour this summer, but Roland and his wife had a baby in June,” said Smith. “So the summer touring obviously was off because you don’t want to be away from home that close to having a baby.”

Related: Iconic '80s Rocker, 64, and Wife, 38, Welcome First Child Together

Makeup Artist Reveals How To Give Mature Eyes a 'Natural Lift' With 1 Key Product

Mon, 08/03/2026 - 12:21pm

Getting eye makeup "right" after 50 is all about technique. What may have worked years ago, like heavy eye liner, full-coverage shadow and dense mascara, may no longer look the same as the skin around the eyes changes in texture and tone.

As the eye area ages, the skin becomes thinner and loses elasticity, lids can start to hood or droop and the natural fat pads that once kept the under-eye area looking smooth begin to shift. The result is that the same products and placements that once opened the eye can begin to make it look smaller or more tired.

Professional makeup artists who work on many different faces in a single week understand how skin of different ages requires different techniques. As makeup artist Saffron Hughespreviously told Parade, "The key isn't to pile on more products but to use light, well-placed touches that bring back definition and brightness."

Celebrity makeup artist Karoline Karakeosian, whose clients include Sofia Carson and Lori Harvey, agreed, and shared the tricks she relies on most for mature eyes.

One tip stood out above the rest: a single strategic product placement that creates an instant lift with almost no effort. Find out the technique—and a few other simple adjustments that make a real difference.

Related: The Genius Eyeliner Trick We Wish We’d Known About Sooner

The 1 Product That Gives Mature Eyes a Natural Lift: Shimmer Eye Shadow

Believe it or not, the makeup artists' go-to lifting product for mature eyes is a shimmer eye shadow. Although some people argue that shimmery shadow can highlight texture, the correct shade and placement can make mature eyes pop—in a good way.

Adding brightness to the inner corners of the eyes is one of the most effective tools in a makeup artist's kit for opening up the eye area—and it's a step most people skip entirely.

To get the effect, place a dab of shimmer shadow in the inner corners of the eyes and under the brow arch. "This creates a natural lift and youthful light reflection," Karakeosian explained. "Mature eyes often look tired due to inner-corner shadowing."

She recommended a shimmer shadow in the shades of champagne, rose gold or soft peach, never a stark white, which can look harsh. Hughes prefers to do this step with a cream highlighter for the same reason, as she previously told Parade, "It's a subtle step that keeps the eyes looking lifted and awake."

Related: 11 Best Eyeshadows for Mature Skin, According to Celebrity Makeup Artists

Getty

2 More Expert-Backed Tips for Mature Eyes

Here's what else to keep in mind.

1. Keep the rest of your eye makeup soft

The inner corner trick works best when the rest of the eye look doesn't compete with it. Karakeosian previously recommended keeping darker shadow to the outer third of the eye only, and Hughes suggested sweeping a mid-tone neutral shade slightly above the natural crease—not in it—to create the illusion of a higher lid.

For liner, both experts suggested avoiding anything heavy or very dark. "Brown, grey or plum shades are more flattering than black and create a natural contrast that lifts the eyes," Hughes said.

For mascara, Karakeosian recommended a brown-black shade and concentrating application at the outer corners to elongate and lift. Two light coats of a lengthening formula that separates without clumping is all you need.

Related: The 7 Best Concealers for Mature Skin, According to Celebrity Makeup Artists

2. Don't skip the brows

Of course, brows frame the entire eye area, and since they thin with age, a small amount of attention to them will pay off significantly. Karakeosian recommended shades with soft ash undertones.

Hughes' approach? A fine pencil to create small, realistic strokes, finished with a tinted brow gel to set everything in place. "Keeping the tone slightly lighter than your natural brow color looks softer and more flattering," she told Parade.

Up Next:

Related: Celebrity Makeup Artist Reveals a Clever Concealer Trick for Mature Skin I Wish I'd Known About Sooner

Sources:
  • Karoline Karakeosian, makeup artist
  • Saffron Hughes, makeup artist

Fan-Favorite Gas Station, Known for Legendary Pizza, Quietly Takes on Buc-ee's With 400 New Stores

Mon, 08/03/2026 - 12:12pm

Fueling up at gas stations now has more than one meaning. Before Buc-ee's went viral, we've all passed judgment on people braving roller-grill hot dogs and so-called "nachos."

Buc-ee's has become a household name well beyond the South, where its sprawling locations have turned roadside pit stops into destinations unto themselves. The Midwest has its own gas station foodie favorite — and there are so many locations that you don't even have to be on a road trip to find one.

Casey's General Store (more commonly known simply as Casey's) has even earned celebrity backing for its beloved pizza, a fan-favorite alternative to Domino's and other major chains.

The Midwest staple is expanding with 400 new stores over the next 3 years after CEO Darren Rebelez revealed the company is coming off its "best three-year cycle."

Related: World’s ‘Number One’ Restaurant Reopening This Summer with New Menu Every Month

Unlike if Shell suddenly started dishing out pizzas, Casey's already has a legitimate following, including some familiar names who rave about having to grab a slice when they go back home.

Celebrity chef Andrew Zimmernonce declared, "I love gas station food and have tasted three lifetimes' worth throughout my travels, and Casey's pizza rises to the top." He's not alone, either. Queer Eye star Jonathan Van Ness has called Casey's pizza "the best gas station pizza" and shamelessly admitted they "can't stop thinking about Casey's pizza" after returning to Iowa.

Casey's even reached the White House. Former Vice President Mike Pence was spotted grabbing a slice at Casey's while on the campaign trail, underscoring just how ingrained the chain has become in Midwestern culture, and not just for lunch or dinner. In fact, actress Mila Kunis once raved on Reddit, "they do a delicious breakfast pizza!"

Related: ’70s West Coast Staple Was Just Crowned ‘Best Breakfast’ Spot in California

No matter if you're in little-known Potosi, Missouri or major cities like Des Moines, Casey's is expanding far and wide, including new markets. Better yet, they're branching out beyond pizza. Hundreds of stores now serve boneless and bone-in wings and fries.

"We're famous for our pizza, we still have a long runway for growth there with innovation and new items that we've introduced more recently," Rebelez said. "But now we have the wings platform."

Lindsay Clancy Trial: Why Wasn't Patrick Clancy Investigated And Could He Be Charged? (Exclusive)

Mon, 08/03/2026 - 12:02pm

The Lindsay Clancy trial has raised difficult questions about the events leading up to the deaths of her three children—and the role of those around her.

As the defense argues that Clancy was experiencing postpartum psychosis and was not criminally responsible for her actions, some people have questioned why her then-husband, Patrick Clancy, was not investigated as a suspect or whether he could ever face charges.

Parade spoke exclusively with lawyer Margaret McLean, host of The Margaret McLean Show, to get some answers.

"Patrick Clancy has not been charged with child neglect or abuse because investigators found no evidence of a conscious or reckless failure to protect his children," McLean says. "To bring formal criminal child abuse or neglect charges in Massachusetts, the prosecutor must establish probable cause showing that a crime occurred and that the caregiver was responsible. For a parent to be criminally charged with neglect or endangerment resulting in death, the state must prove a reckless disregard for human life or an awareness of an imminent, deadly threat. Because Patrick had no reason to believe his children's lives were in danger at that moment, he lacks the necessary criminal intent or mens rea (meaning guilty mind)."

Lindsay Clancy attends her murder trial at Plymouth Superior Court in Plymouth on July 29, 2026.

David L. Ryan/The Boston Globe via Getty Images

McLean doesn't believe that the Commonwealth of Massachusetts doesn't have any legal grounds to bring criminal charges against Patrick "based on the evidence presented in court."

She highlights that Lindsay was "actively under the care of multiple mental health providers and specialists" and that her then-husband "relied on the assessments of these medical experts, who never instructed him that she could not be left alone with the children."

Related: Read the Transcript of the 911 Call in the Lindsay Clancy Trial

McLean goes on to point out that Lindsay was discharged from McLean Hospital in Belmont, Massachusetts, 19 days before the murders of her three young children—Cora, 5, Dawson, 3, and Callan, 8 months—and if medical experts felt it was "safe" to release her, Patrick "would have a strong argument that as a layperson he could not have known that she could cause harm to herself or others." Moreover, Patrick had "no reason to anticipate violence" given that he recalled that his then-wife was having one of her "best" days before he left the house to run errands.

"Patrick Clancy is one of the Commonwealth’s star witnesses; therefore, they don’t want to alienate or vilify him," McLean continues. "They needed his testimony to build the mandatory legal elements of premeditated murder, utilizing him as their primary chronological and factual anchor. The state’s core theory is that Lindsay planned the killings. Patrick was needed to verify that she sent him out on specific errands, which established that she calculated exactly how long he would be gone, creating the precise window of opportunity she needed to act. He also testified about the murder weapons, exercise bands, which were wrapped around each child’s neck."

As the trial continues, Patrick remains a central figure—but not as a defendant. Instead, his testimony has become a key part of both sides’ arguments as the jury weighs one of the most difficult questions in the case: whether Lindsay's actions were the result of a criminal decision or a devastating mental health crisis.

READ NEXT: Patrick Clancy’s Support ‘Changes the Atmosphere in the Courtroom’ (Exclusive)

1977 Rock Song, Never a No. 1 Hit, Became an Underrated Hard Rock Staple

Mon, 08/03/2026 - 12:01pm

Thin Lizzy may have been known for hits like "The Boys Are Back in Town," but their 1977 rock track, "Bad Reputation," marked a shift in the band and became an underrated classic.

Going into the creation of the Bad Reputation album, Thin Lizzy was already facing some trouble as it only included three-quarters of the band. Guitarist Brian Robertson would be absent for a majority of the album due to a hand injury from a fight and even missed most of their previous tour. The album would be his last recording effort with the band.

AgainstPhil Lynott's initial wishes, Robertson was brought back to play on three tracks for the album, and both made it a point not to cross paths during recordings. Bad Reputation was Thin Lizzy's last attempt to make a name for themselves in America after having burned more than a few bridges among executives and concert promoters.

"It was such an important album to us because of all the adversities that we'd been going through," recalled guitarist Scott Gorham. "We had to pull this together or we were going to go down in a ball of flames."

The album landed at No. 39 on the Billboard 200, with "Bad Reputation" having been one of the hidden gems that still holds as a rock staple among fans. It was developed by Gorham, Lynott, and drummer Brian Downey.

"Well, I had the riff down. Phil came up and he says, 'We need to do an off-time thing with this.' He started to work with Brian Downey on that, and that's when they came up with this strange timing that you don't usually associate with Thin Lizzy. I listened to that and went, 'Man, that is so fu--ing cool, it's unbelievable,' and I jumped in on it. Then it kind of developed itself from there," said Gorham to SongFacts.

He added that the song came together quickly as they all worked together and, "As soon as we had that off-timing tag line come in, everything just fell into place, all the harmony guitar work and all that, the lead guitar thing. Phil's idea from it, from the riff itself, he just thought, you know, something along the lines of, 'Man, this could give us a really bad reputation. That's it. That's what we're going to call this song.' And he started writing this song called 'Bad Reputation.'"

While the track was never released as a standalone single and never made it to the charts. It served as the B-side to "Dancing in the Moonlight (It's Caught Me in Its Spotlight)." Over the years, it would be covered by multiple bands, including Phantom Blue and the Foo Fighters on their Medium Rare album. "Bad Reputation" would also be familiar among gaming fans as it was included in Guitar Hero II and Sleeping Dogs for its intense guitar solos.

Related: 1974 Rock Ballad, Reimagined 37 Years Later, Became a Classic Breakup Anthem

Shoppers Walked 20,000+ Steps in These ‘Super Cute’ and ‘Supportive’ Rhinestone Yoga Mat Flip-Flops

Mon, 08/03/2026 - 11:55am

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It’s no secret that flip-flops have permanently secured a spot as a summer staple. Breathable and effortless to wear, they’re an easy choice for warm weather activities. If you’re looking to add some to your closet or refresh your current ones, you should opt for a pair that seamlessly blends style and comfort. The right flip-flops keep you comfortable all day long while complementing both casual and dressy outfits, like these Kuailu Rhinestone Yoga Mat Flip-Flops at Amazon

From beach vacations to grocery store runs, these flip-flops are ready to tackle all your summer outings. Right now is the best time to snag them because they’re currently on sale for a limited time. Normally retailing between $23 and $27, these rhinestone flip-flops are now marked down to as low as $15. Prices vary depending on size and style, but they’re all on sale for less than $20! You can score these sandals in 10 colors, including neutrals like black and beige, and vibrant hues like light blue and pink. Sizes range from 5 to 11, and shoppers noted that they fit true to size. 

Kuailu Rhinestone Yoga Mat Flip-Flops, From $15 (was $23) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at Amazon

Crafted with an ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) midsole, which is the same material yoga mats are made of, these sandals deliver plush comfort. They cushion and cradle your feet, offering a cloud-like feel with every step. Weighing less than 0.5 pounds combined, these flip-flops will keep you light on your feet and should make walking feel like a breeze, whether you’re running errands, sightseeing on vacation, or spending the day at an amusement park.

Attesting to the comfort of these sandals, multiple shoppers noted that they walked over 20,000 steps in them without experiencing any pain or discomfort. Several customers also mentioned that they walked in these sandals all day without any issues like blisters or aches. 

These sandals absorb the impact of your steps, reducing pressure on your feet and joints to help prevent fatigue. They have an orthotic footbed with curved arches and heel cups, supporting the natural shape of your feet. Numerous shoppers raved about the “excellent arch support,” and customers with plantar fasciitis and high arches noted that these were very comfortable for their feet. 

Kuailu Rhinestone Yoga Mat Flip-Flops, From $15 (was $23) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at Amazon

Fixed with Y-straps, these flip-flops are easy to slide your feet in and out of. While you can put them on in seconds, they’ll hold your feet secure with the snug toe posts and straps that hug the tops of your feet. The outsole is treaded and made of rubber, ensuring traction and stability on all kinds of surfaces to prevent you from slipping. Thanks to the EVA and rubber materials, these sandals are water-resistant, making them ideal for beach and pool days. 

“They are super cute and incredibly comfortable,” one reviewer said. Another customer mentioned that these sandals “feel like you’re walking on pillows.” A third shopper commented that they’re “very supportive and have a very nice bounce.” 

Just as chic as they are comfortable, these sandals have a subtle wedge design. They taper towards the toes, offering the slightest lift without sacrificing comfort or stability. While practical, the straps add a playful and glam accent. Adorned with rhinestones, these flip-flops will add a little touch of luxury and bling to any outfit you pair them with. Shoppers mentioned that they sparkle in the sun. 

The rhinestone accents and wedge construction give these flip-flops an elevated appearance, giving them range. You can style them with casual attire like streetwear and athleisure, and just as easily dress them up with sundresses and trendy vacation ensembles. 

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Related: Shoppers Walked Miles in These Podiatrist-Approved Flip-Flops With ‘Excellent Arch Support’

If you’re looking for a pair of shoes you can slide on without any hesitation as you’re rushing out the door, the Kuailu Rhinestone Yoga Mat Flip-Flops are worth adding to your collection. Don’t hesitate to snag them at Amazon while they’re on sale starting at just $15! 

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Country Music Legend Announces 2026 Tour With Special Guest

Mon, 08/03/2026 - 11:50am

One of country music's most celebrated voices is heading back on the road.

Wynonna Judd has announced The Hard Truth Tour, a 15-date North American run supporting her upcoming solo album The Hard Truth, which arrives Oct. 2 via ANTI- Records.

The tour begins Oct. 8 at New York City's Bowery Ballroom before making stops in Houston, Tulsa, St. Louis, Tampa and Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, among other cities. Troubadour Blue will join Judd as the special guest on most dates.

Wynonna Judd's 'The Hard Truth Tour' dates

Wynonna Judd

Fans will have their first opportunity to purchase tickets during the Wynation Fan Club presale beginning Aug. 4, with general ticket sales starting Aug. 7. VIP packages will also be available for most shows.

The announcement comes just months after Judd wrapped her acclaimed Raised On Radio co-headlining tour alongside Melissa Etheridge, keeping the Country Music Hall of Famer on the road as she prepares to release her first studio album for ANTI- Records.

"As we were making this record, I kept finding myself thinking about you," Judd said in a statement announcing the tour. "Every song we recorded, every story we told… I couldn't help but wonder what it would feel like to stand onstage and share it with you face to face."

She added that The Hard Truth contains "some of the most honest moments I've ever put to music," describing the songs as reflections on "the things that shape us, break us, heal us, and keep us moving forward."

Few artists have remained as influential in country music as Judd. She first rose to fame in the 1980s as one half of The Judds alongside her mother Naomi Judd, earning dozens of hit singles including "Mama He's Crazy," "Why Not Me" and "Grandpa (Tell Me 'Bout the Good Old Days)." After launching a solo career in the early 1990s, she added chart-topping hits such as "No One Else on Earth," "She Is His Only Need" and "To Be Loved by You," cementing her place as one of the defining voices of modern country music.

Her new album marks another milestone in that career. The Hard Truth is the first album Judd has co-written from start to finish, pairing her unmistakable voice with collaborations from acclaimed songwriters and performers including Patterson Hood of Drive-By Truckers, Iron & Wine and The War and Treaty. The album's first two singles, "Kentucky Queen" and "Am I Missing Out," have already been released.

In addition to the new music, the tour will also support The Only Love Fund through the Music Community Foundation, with $1 from every ticket donated to nonprofits across the country.

With a new album arriving in October and another tour on the calendar, Judd continues to build on a career that has spanned more than four decades, bringing both beloved classics and deeply personal new songs to audiences across North America.

Related: Country Music Legend Calls Meeting Caitlin Clark, Indiana Fever Team 'Absolute Dream'

Netflix Is About to Lose One of the Best Sci-Fi Shows Ever

Mon, 08/03/2026 - 11:49am

It’s becoming more and more of a common theme, as Netflix loses another hit show due to licensing deals coming to an end. The latest is the upcoming loss of Orphan Black.

One of the best sci-fi shows on TV is going to be removed from the streaming platform once August comes to an end. On top of that, the streamer is also losing Echoes, the spinoff starring Krysten Ritter, although there’s a little more time to stream that one.

When Will ‘Orphan Black’ Leave Netflix?

All five original seasons of Orphan Black were among the surprise list of AMC titles heading to the streaming giant in 2025. They included the likes of Interview with the Vampire and A Discovery of Witches in an attempt to push more of AMC’s shows.

Each show had a different agreement, and we’ve already seen some of them disappear. Others have gained a new deal, such as Netflix spending $500 million to secure the entire Walking Dead franchise until 2032 in a non-exclusive agreement.

BBC America

Could the same happen with Orphan Black? That remains to be seen. There are sure to be attempts by Netflix to keep it, as the five-season series is classed as one of the best sci-fi shows of all time. It put Tatiana Maslany on the map when it came to actresses to watch, as she took on vastly different roles throughout the run.

However, as for now, Orphan Black will depart Netflix on Sept. 1, 2026. That means Aug. 31 is the last day to binge-watch the show, so you’ll want to start that binge now!

When Will ‘Orphan Black: Echoes’ Leave Netflix?

Also in the lineup to exit the streamer is Orphan Black: Echoes, the spinoff series set years into the future. This series was added to Netflix soon after its AMC+ debut in an attempt to gain more viewers, but it wasn’t a success, and the series was canceled after just one season.

There’s still some time to stream this series, so you’ll want to focus on Orphan Black first. Echoes will exit around Nov. 13, according to What’s on Netflix, so the last day to stream is Nov. 12, 2026.

All this only applies to the U.S. platform. International versions of Netflix work with their own licensing agreements, and Orphan Black hasn’t been available in many international territories since August 2021. You can stream on AMC+ where that platform is available. 

Jake and Romy Reiner Make Rare Appearance To Throw Out First Pitch At Dodgers Game In Honor of Dad, Rob Reiner

Mon, 08/03/2026 - 11:48am

Jake and Romy Reiner were in attendance at the Los Angeles Dodgers game against the Boston Red Sox on Sunday, Aug. 2, and had the honor of throwing out the first pitch.

This comes more than seven months after their parents, Rob and Michele Reiner, were murdered in their Los Angeles home on Dec. 14, 2025. Their other son, Nick, was arrested and is charged with two counts of first-degree murder.

Jake and Rob shared a love of baseball and specifically the Dodgers. Rob's love for the game came from his father, Carl Reiner, and he wanted to share that with his son. Jake went on to intern with the Dodgers as a junior broadcaster while he was in high school. He also co-hosts the Dodgers Incline Podcast.

In April, Jake shared a personal essay on Substack where he talked about the passing of his parents as well as their shared love of the Dodgers.

“We loved the Dodgers more than anything. We went to so many damn games. I’ll never go to Dodger Stadium again without feeling my dad’s presence and hearing his voice tell me why Shohei Ohtani should never bat in the leadoff spot," he penned. "When I was little, I would cry my eyes out when the Dodgers would lose a regular season game, and he’d say, “Buddy, you have to realize, at some point, that there are 162 games. It’s going to be alright.” He took me on baseball trips every summer beginning when I was like 11 or 12, and eventually we made it to every ballpark around the majors."

Jake previously made his first public appearance since his parents' tragic passing on June 23 when he attended the premiere of Larry David’s HBO series Life, Larry and the Pursuit of Unhappiness, where he appears in one episode during the series.

1969 Acoustic Song, Lasting 23 Seconds, Was Almost Left Off a Legendary Album

Mon, 08/03/2026 - 11:46am

At just 23 seconds long, The Beatles' "Her Majesty" was shorter than most radio commercials, yet finding the right place for it on Abbey Road took more effort than the song itself. Paul McCartney's playful acoustic track was nearly cut from the album, but a tape operator kept it alive by following an important rule. 

McCartney wrote "Her Majesty" while in Scotland, originally planning it as part of the 16-plus-minute medley that fills much of the second half of The Beatles' 11th album.

The sequence begins with "You Never Give Me Your Money" and continues through "Sun King," "Mean Mr. Mustard," "Polythene Pam," "She Came in Through the Bathroom Window," "Golden Slumbers," "Carry That Weight" and "The End."

At Abbey Road Studios, the song was recorded in just three takes on July 2, 1969, with McCartney performing alone on acoustic guitar and vocals. This came shortly before The Beatles recorded "Golden Slumbers" and "Carry That Weight."

The brief acoustic piece was initially placed between "Mean Mr. Mustard" and "Polythene Pam," but McCartney later decided it no longer fit and removed it from the running order.

“We did all the remixes and crossfades to overlap the songs, Paul was there, and we heard it together for the first time,” recalled tape operator John Kurlander, per American Songwriter. “He said, ‘I don’t like ‘Her Majesty,’ throw it away.’”

Instead of getting rid of the recording, Kurlander saved the track. He had learned one important rule while working with The Beatles: never toss anything out.

“I’d been told never to throw anything away, so after he left I picked it up off the floor put about 20 seconds of red leader tape before it, and stuck it onto the end of the edit tape,” Kurlander explained. 

The following day, Apple Records staff member Malcolm Davies cut a playback copy of the album’s final sequence. Despite the note marking “Her Majesty” as unwanted, he left the track at the end of the tape. 

“He too thought, ‘We mustn’t throw anything away, I’ll put it on at the end,’” Kurlander said.

The unexpected ending eventually seemed to win McCartney over. “I’m only assuming this, but when Paul got that lacquer he must have liked hearing ‘Her Majesty’ tacked on the end,” Kurlander said. “The Beatles always picked up on accidental things. It came as a nice little surprise there at the end, and he didn’t mind. We never remixed ‘Her Majesty’ again, that was the mix which ended up on the finished LP.”

Compared with more critical songs about the monarchy, “Her Majesty” took a playful approach to Queen Elizabeth II. McCartney’s brief acoustic number was more of a cheeky love song than a political statement.

After a 14-second silence following “The End,” “Her Majesty” appears as the final sound on Abbey Road. It’s a fittingly lighthearted way to close out the record.

“That was very much how things happened,” McCartney once said. “Really, you know, the whole of our career was like that, so it’s a fitting end.”

The album went on to become one of The Beatles’ biggest successes, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart, where it spent 11 weeks at the top, while also topping the U.K. Albums Chart.

Related: 1966 Rock Song, Written by a 15-Year-Old, Is Still a Powerful Hit 60 Years Later

Nancy Guthrie Update: New Information Could Mark Major Turning Point, History Suggests

Mon, 08/03/2026 - 11:43am

The search for Nancy Guthrie has entered a critical phase.

Six months after Savannah Guthrie’s mother, 84, disappeared from her Arizona home, investigators continue working to uncover what happened. While the case has remained without a major public breakthrough, experts say history shows that missing person investigations can change quickly when new information, evidence or a single crucial tip emerges.

On Monday, Aug. 3, NBC's national law and intelligence correspondent Tom Winter discussed the Pima County Sheriff's decision to release the ransom note that was sent to media outlets in the early days of the investigation.

"I think it underscores two things in speaking with people in law enforcement, the first is just how seriously they're taking these notes and the attention that they've put on them has only increased over time," Winter said on Today. "And we've heard it from Savannah [Guthrie] herself, that they do believe that there is something serious to these and that they are very much worthy of the investigation's consideration."

"It also underscores something else. Would you be putting these notes out if they were keying in on a suspect, if they were searching an area? I think it tells us a lot about where this investigation has been up to this point, which is very difficult. They don't have a suspect, they are looking for the public's help, and that's the reason why they're putting this information out, to see if maybe somebody recognizes something in these notes that can get them closer to it," he added.

"There's precedent for this, of course. It was done in the Unabomber investigation, quite successfully. It led to a family member, through their attorney, contacting the FBI that led to a break in that case," Winter continued, referring to Ted Kaczynski, who was arrested back in 1996. At the time, it was Kaczynski's brother who recognized his writing style in a published manifesto.

With the official release of the ransom note, Winter noted that history shows how seemingly small pieces of information can become significant when they reach the right person. For now, the Pima County Sheriff's Department and FBI continue to urge anyone with information about Guthrie's disappearance to come forward as they work to find answers.

READ NEXT: Reporter Believes Something ‘Significant’ Is Coming Amid Major Twist in Nancy Guthrie Case

This '90s Alt-Rock Band's New Album Sounds Nothing Like the '90s

Mon, 08/03/2026 - 11:39am

The first chords of "Shine" or "December" still snap many fans (of a certain ago) back to a mid-'90s summer. That muscle memory is exactly why Collective Soul's newest record is such a jolt for the people who grew up on them.

Touch and Go, which arrived on streaming services on July 31 after a limited Record Store Day pressing in April, is not the crunchy, guitar-forward rock the Georgia band built its name on. It is a full pivot into New Wave, shaped in the image of The Cars. The album's title itself is a nod to that group, whose fingerprints run through all ten tracks.

Ed Roland has been open about the swerve. Speaking with Ultimate Classic Rock, the frontman described a record laced with deliberate callbacks, inviting longtime fans to pick out the guitar lines, keyboards and vocals that echo the band behind "Just What I Needed" and "Good Times Roll." It is a striking turn for a group long filed under post-grunge, which early reviews have noticed. One assessment of the album singled out how closely Roland's vocals sound like the late Ric Ocasek's.

Fans have followed the band for decades: brothers Ed and Dean Roland, bassist Will Turpin, guitarist Jesse Triplett and drummer Johnny Rabb. Since forming in Stockbridge, Georgia, in 1992, Collective Soul turned a run of radio staples like "December," "The World I Know" and "Gel" into multi-platinum success, then kept working long after the '90s alt-rock wave receded. Touch and Go is one more entry in a catalog that now spans more than a dozen studio albums.

Related: R.E.M. Frontman Debuts New Song From His First-Ever Solo Album

The experiment reflects how the group operates now, a year after the release of the first documentary about their career. Roland told Ultimate Classic Rock that the New Wave detour was a passion project, and that a straight-ahead rock record is already in the works for a future release. That restlessness was there from the start of the rollout, when the band first unveiled the album as a colored-vinyl exclusive built for fans who still value the physicality of holding a record.

For an audience that came of age with "The World I Know" on constant rotation, the draw is twofold. There is the comfort of a familiar band still making music together three decades on, and the curiosity of hearing them sound like the era just before their own. Songs like "Rainbow" and "Eye on You" will likely sound unfamiliar to longtime fans. But it should be fun.

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Simon Pegg Joins 'The Rings of Power' as the Balrog Speaks

Mon, 08/03/2026 - 11:39am

The moment a scheming shapeshifter becomes the dark lord every Tolkien reader already dreads has been building since this series began. Season 3 of Prime Video's Middle-earth saga finally reaches it, and the studio picked the biggest geek-related stage of the year to show fans exactly how it happens.

During the show's Hall H panel at San Diego Comic-Con, before a crowd of more than 6,500, Prime Video debuted the first Season 3 teaser. The trailer confirmed a November 11 premiere for the opening four episodes, with the rest of the season rolling out through November 25. It also set a noticeably darker tone, centered on the event the whole saga has pointed toward: Sauron forging the One Ring.

The panel's biggest surprise arrived in a featurette on the season's creatures. The Balrog, the fiery demon best known for blocking Gandalf's path in The Fellowship of the Ring, will speak for the first time in the series, voiced by Simon Pegg. In the story, Sauron learns how to forge the One Ring from the Balrog itself. The showrunners described the creature as an "intelligent dangerous adversary" and said they wanted to give it a scene opposite Sauron.

Prime Video also unveiled a wave of new cast members. Stranger Things star Jamie Campbell Bower joins as Celeborn, Galadriel's long-lost love and, in Tolkien's writing, her husband. Eddie Marsan plays the dwarven royal Thrain, Andrew Richardson plays Anarion, Zubin Varla plays the Ringwraith Khamûl the Easterling, and Adam Young plays an original orc named Marnûkh. The trailer opens in the blackened wastes of Mordor, where Sauron, played by Charlie Vickers, declares "Now, is the mighty hour come" as molten metal fills a familiar ring-shaped mold. The teaser then shifts to a warmer image of Galadriel, played by Morfydd Clark, dancing with Celeborn, a rare bright moment against the season's grim backdrop.

Related: House of the Dragon Finally Kills Off Its Most Hated Knight

Midway through the panel, a group of armored Nazgûl, the early Second Age forerunners of the Ringwraiths, marched onstage through smoke and lights, moments after Vickers joked about whether he had the One Ring on him. Payne and McKay also teased that some orcs would get hero arcs this season, a hint at the show's willingness to complicate Tolkien's traditional villains.

The stakes feel higher this time because the audience knows where the story is headed. Season 3 leans into the pieces of Middle-earth lore that longtime fans already know, from the birth of the Ringwraiths to the ring that will one day consume Frodo. Showrunners J.D. Payne and Patrick McKay return, with the season built to draw the show closer to the events of Peter Jackson's films.

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