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Alex Cooper had a plan for keeping her pregnancy private, but the internet had other ideas.

The Call Her Daddy host opened up on the June 10 episode of her podcast about trying to hide her pregnancy from her husband, Matt Kaplan.

Cooper said her original goal was inspired by Kylie Jenner, who famously kept her first pregnancy private until after welcoming her daughter, Stormi.

Cooper hoped she could keep the news quiet much longer. However, she felt the need to defend herself and her husband when rumors spread following a red-carpet evening.

Alex Cooper Wanted to "Pull a Kylie Jenner" View this post on Instagram

Cooper said she initially wanted to keep her pregnancy quiet until later in the year.

"The truth is my goal was to try to pull a Kylie Jenner," Cooper said, according to People. "I really wanted to."

She explained that she had imagined announcing the news after the baby had already arrived, but that was not realistic given her job.

"I just one day wanted to come on and announce like, 'Oh, I had a baby,'" Cooper said. "But the unfortunate reality is that my job does require me to be seen either on my show or out at public events."

Cooper said she told Kaplan she wanted to keep the pregnancy secret until August or September, but the plan did not work the way she expected.

Her Red Carpet Outfit Became a Problem Alex Cooper at YouTube's TV Upfront, Brandcast held at David Geffen Hall at Lincoln Center on May 13, 2026 in New York, New York.

Photo by John Nacion/Variety via Getty Images

The trouble started before Cooper and Kaplan attended the YouTube TV Upfront in New York City in May.

Cooper said she had chosen an outfit she thought would hide her growing bump, but when she tried it on the day of the event, it no longer fit the way she had planned.

"I started hyperventilating," she said, adding that she was "having a mental breakdown on this carpet."

Cooper said the buttons on her jacket were popping off before the event, and she was trying to hold everything together as she got out the door.

"I've got my Spanx literally hiked up to my nipples," she recalled, says Just Jared. "We're about to be late. I am sucking in for dear life. I'm trying to make this work as we walk out the door."

The Internet Read the Moment Completely Wrong

Photo by Noam Galai on Getty Images

Cooper said she and Kaplan had a serious conversation in the car about how they would handle the carpet.

She told him they needed to keep things "business professional" and move quickly.

According to Cooper, people did not immediately focus on baby speculation. Instead, they started talking about the couple's body language.

"The only rumors that actually came from the carpet is just how miserable my husband and I looked," Cooper said.

She said people online were dissecting their appearance together and suggesting the relationship looked like an "arranged marriage" or a "business deal."

"Babe, that is a win for a win for a win," she remembered telling Kaplan, seeing that fans were way off.

Related: Alex Cooper Says Pregnancy Changed Something She Never Struggled With Before

Cooper Said She and Matt Kaplan Are Doing Fine

Cooper later made it clear that the marriage speculation was not accurate.

"No one needs to worry," she said. "Matt and I are great."

She also admitted that the rumors were not exactly easy to read, even if they helped distract from the pregnancy news for a little longer.

"Honestly, it is sad, though, guys," Cooper said. "It is really sad and just insane how crazy this industry is."

Cooper and Kaplan announced in May that they are expecting their first baby together. The couple married in April 2024 after first meeting on Zoom in 2020.

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Zoey Deutch, daughter of Back to the Future star Lea Thompson, is a rising fashion star with an exciting new Netflix film.

The actress, 31, started her career as a teen on the Disney Channel, but scored serious creds with roles in indie flicks like Everybody Wants Some!! and Flower. Last year, she reunited with Texan director Richard Linklater in 2025’s Nouvelle Vague, in which she played screen legend Jean Seberg. But as she took the streets of New York City, Deutch showed her fashion prowess. First, she sported a chic white minidress, followed by a two-piece black number that looked like it was made out of latex.

Photo by TheStewartofNY on Getty Images

Photo by TheStewartofNY on Getty Images

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Deutch Inherited Her Mom’s Acting Skills

It’s no wonder that Deutch is so talented, considering her mother’s iconic roles. She’s even appeared in her mom’s 2017 directorial debut, The Year of Spectacular Men. But Thompson is best known for her roles as Lorraine Baines-McFly in the beloved Back to the Future trilogy. The iconic first film, released in 1985, introduced us to wild teenager Lorraine, whom sweet Marty McFly (played by Michael J. Fox) meets when he travels back in time to 1955 in a DeLorean. Who could forget the iconic scene when his mom tries to kiss him as they sit outside the school dance in his car? Now that’s an awkward run-in!

Deutch Stars in a New Netflix Romance

Deutch appears next in Voicemails for Isabelle, which hits Netflix on June 19. The film follows a romance between Deutch's character, Hill, and Wes, played by Nick Robinson.

"After her sister Isabelle (Ciara Bravo) dies, Jill copes by continuing to leave her voicemails. They’re about everything from her boss Chef Bastien’s (Nick Offerman) insufferable antics to how heartbroken she is without her best friend. Wes, an Austin real estate agent, gets a new work phone and is assigned Isabelle’s old number. Unbeknownst to Jill, Wes gets to listen in on her hilariously confessional messages about her life as an aspiring pastry chef in San Francisco. One voicemail at a time, Wes starts to fall in love with Jill, as they sit on different benches across the country from each other," the official synopsis reads.

Check out the trailer below!

What’s Next for Zoey Deutch?

Deutch will likely score a goal with her next project. Back in January, Deadline announced that the rising star will play Marla Messing, the U.S. Women’s soccer executive who oversaw the 1999 World Cup tournament that set attendance and TV viewership records. Titled The 99’ers, the U.S. Women’s Soccer drama will be directed for Netflix by Nicole Kassell.

Related: Sosie Bacon, the Daughter of Kevin Bacon and Kyra Sedgwick, Is a Red Carpet Stunner Who Resembles Her Mom

If you're not regularly stopping in to see what's new at your local Aldi, there's a world of essential finds you're missing out on each week. And among the retailer's wide selection of grocery staples, there's one category that consistently delivers some of the most popular releases of each season: Aldi Finds.

With summer coming up fast, this month's Aldi Finds section is packed with plenty of must-have seasonal picks. And while groceries, snacks and beverages are always worth exploring, it's items like this 2-Piece Shorts set that really captures the essence of the season, perfect for lounging around the house or getting in some light activity outdoors.

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2-Piece Shorts, $9.99 at Aldi

Aldi

In stores only for a limited time and likely selling fast, Aldi's 2-Piece Shorts Set is as classic as it gets, featuring a 100 percent cotton construction that feels exceptionally soft, cozy and perfect for all-day wear. And while there are certainly more performance-driven options on the market, this set offers an easy, comfortable alternative that can effortlessly transition from lounging on the couch to playing ball with friends.

Adding to the appeal of this $10 set, you can choose from three stylish color combos: green/gray, black/blue and dark gray/gray, giving you two colors per set or six total if you pick up all three. And while supplies last, sizes small through XL are available both in stores and online, making it a simple, versatile option you can rely on for everyday wear.

Related: Uniqlo's 'Breezy' Wardrobe Staple Is a '10/10' Summer Upgrade

Aldi

As for the details that sweeten this deal, each pair is made from soft, breathable 100 percent cotton and can be washed with the rest of your laundry without any special care. They also feature an elastic waistband with a drawstring, two side pockets and a button closure for added security, giving them a relaxed, lounge-ready feel that sits somewhere between classic gym shorts and everyday sleepwear.

It's also worth noting that these shorts are Oeko-Tex certified, meaning they've been tested for harmful substances and are made with materials that meet strict safety and quality standards. Basically, it's an added layer of reassurance that ensures what you're wearing is designed with both comfort and responsible production in mind.

Don't sleep on this comfortable sleepwear set. You'll love it whether you're keeping it casual at home or keeping it even more casual out in the world. And while you're at it, check out Old Navy's Performance Vent Run Shorts and Uniqlo's Five-Inch Linen Blend Easy Shorts for even more summer wardrobe essentials.

Related: Old Navy's Classic $6 Men's Staple Is the 'Perfect' Fit for Summer

Our days are so jam-packed that sometimes, lunch doesn't get the attention it deserves. Sometimes, we skip it altogether! But registered dietitians say this is a mistake, because it's a secret weapon for nailing the rest of your day.

"While many people like to 'power through' the lunch hour, skipping lunch can actually lower energy and productivity because of blood sugar dips and inadequate fueling," Michelle Routhenstein, MS, RD, CDCES, CDN, a preventive cardiology dietitian at EntirelyNourished.com, tells Parade. "It is important to pause your day and eat a balanced lunch to help nourish your body, support blood sugar and appetite control, keep energy levels steady and help prevent later-day sugar cravings."

Another registered dietitian also sings the praises of a nourishing lunch. "It is the meal that carries you when you need to get the most work done, whether it is at home...or in the workplace," points out Eleana Kaidanian, RD, CDN, CPT-WFS, a registered dietitian. "Lunch also allows for active rest; it is the time that your body takes a short break from the tasks that are expected from it and has a chance to 'recover' to help you go on with the rest of your day."

Yet, what you eat matters—but what does an ideal lunch look like anyway? Your social media feed may have a steady stream of perfectly plated meals that took hours to make from scratch and feel aspirational, given your busy life. However, registered dietitians are far more concerned with making sure you get enough nutrients than creating an aesthetically pleasing meal—not that there's anything wrong with that, if it's your jam. To help, we asked three dietitians, "What's the ideal lunch?" They all said the same thing.

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The Ideal Lunch To Eat, According to 3 Registered Dietitians

Registered dietitians say that the ideal lunch includes foods with fiber, protein and healthy fats. "This will provide a balanced plate offering a mix of nutrients at once, your body will feel its best energy-wise and function at its peak while feeling satisfied," Kaidanian tells Parade.

Some of her favorite ways to check all three boxes include:

• Filet of wild salmon (protein and healthy fat), with roasted Brussels sprouts (fiber) and wild rice (fiber) 
• Green salad (fiber) with grilled chicken (protein) and sliced avocado (healthy fat) 
• Steamed tofu (protein) with sauteed broccoli (fiber) and peanuts on top (healthy fat) 

3 Reasons To Prioritize This Lunch

Kaidanian and two other dietitians dish on why each nutrient deserves real estate on your lunch plate.

1. Fiber is fuel for your digestive system

Kaidanian advises people to get fiber with every snack and meal. "Even high-fiber foods don't have much fiber in one serving," she says. "Therefore, we need to spread it out. Fiber is also tough to break down, in a good way."

For this reason, she wants your body working to break down fiber throughout the day rather than trying to get all your needs in one shot. When you consume too much fiber at once, she says you can experience gas, bloating and constipation—not the vibe you (or your office mates) are going for.

As for the daily requirement, the USDA recommends that women consume at least 25 grams of fiber and that men consume 38 grams.

"Realistically, I would advise that about 30% of your daily fiber intake comes from your lunch," Kaidanian says. "If you are having three meals...and about two snacks a day in between the meals, this would be a great way to meet your daily fiber needs."

Some of her favorite fiber-filled lunches are: 

• Hearty whole grain bowls with quinoa, farro or brown rice base and colorful vegetables 
• Colorful salads with a mix of cruciferous vegetables (like broccoli)
• Bean-based dishes, like lentil soup or black bean burgers 
• Whole wheat pasta dishes with cooked vegetables such as mushrooms and spinach 
• Roasted vegetables such as beets, asparagus and sweet potato with the skin intact on a side of protein such as chicken breast or salmon  

2. Protein is a craving-busting powerhouse

If you don't want to be running on E at the end of your workday, you'll need protein in your lunch.

"Out of all your macros, protein is the one that provides the biggest feeling of fullness, which is what you want midday," says Amanda Sauceda, MS, RD, a registered dietitian. "If you get major sweet cravings midday, you definitely want to check on your protein intake at lunch because those cravings can be a sign you’re not nourishing your body earlier in the day."

Sauceda adds that a lack of protein can also trigger blood sugar imbalances.

"Protein helps to slow down the absorption of the carbs you eat, which means a more gentle blood sugar response, which supports your metabolism," she explains. "If your blood sugar spikes because you’re not getting enough protein and too many simple carbohydrates—think a bag of chips and a soda—you’re more likely to experience a blood sugar spike and cravings."

Routhenstein points out that there isn't a perfect number for grams of protein you need at lunch, but most people benefit from 20 to 35 grams. "The exact amount depends on overall daily protein needs, which are determined by your age, activity level, exercise type, lab results, kidney function and health goals," she explains.

Sauceda says animal meat is one of the easiest sources of protein. It has all nine amino acids, and a 3-ounce serving of chicken contains 23 grams of protein.

However, she loves to incorporate plant-based proteins into her diet because they contain protein and fiber.

"Beans and legumes are the whole package because you get complex carbs, protein, and fiber," Sauceda says. "A half-cup serving of plant-based proteins like beans, lentils or chickpeas is a good number to aim for, but also keep in mind that they are lower in protein compared to meat. They can have anywhere from 7 to 12 grams of protein per serving." 

3. Healthy fats are an underrated lunch star

"Fat" gets a bad rep in the diet culture world. Certain fats—monounsaturated—are highly beneficial and even help with heart health.

"Healthy fats are important because they help with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables," Routhenstein shares.

Again, there's no precise amount of healthy fats to have per meal. It's generally recommended that most people consume 20% to 30% of their daily calories from these fats, so you'll want to consider your overall diet when deciding how much to include with lunch.

Some of Routhenstein's favorite ways to add healthy fats to her lunches include drizzling olive oil over a salad or grain bowl, or adding avocado to a sandwich or burrito bowl.

Related: The ‘Healthy’ Lunch Staple That’s Silently Spiking Your Blood Sugar, According to Dietitians

Don't Forget the Drink

You have the food part down pat, now—fiber, protein and healthy fats all contribute to an ideal lunch. Routhenstein says it's important not to overlook the drink.

"Hydration is important, especially as you increase fiber intake, since drinking enough fluids supports digestion and helps prevent constipation," she tells Parade.

Healthy drinks include:

• Water
• Sparkling water
• Herbal teas can also contribute to hydration. (However, if someone has low iron, it may be helpful to avoid tea close to meals, as certain compounds can slightly reduce iron absorption, Routhenstein explains.)

Hydration needs vary based on your health, the climate and your physical activity.

Related: These 5 Fruits Can Help Lower Your Colorectal Cancer Risk, According to Gastroenterologists

What To Avoid at Lunch

Registered dietitians generally steer clear of declaring foods off-limits, but there are certainly a few that don't make the cut for "ideal lunch" fare. They suggest minimizing:

• Heavy sauces or dressings. Kaidanian shares that these are especially common in the foods we order at restaurants, but they're often loaded with sodium and processed ingredients. "Always ask for on the side or be specific for what you ask for, such as olive oil and lemon juice instead of the dressing the food automatically comes with," she suggests.
• Filler carbs. Bread rolls and white rice may taste great, but Kaidanian says nutrient-dense whole grains are more filling.
• Refined sugars. Routhenstein knows that a candy bar from the vending machine may be a quick way to eat something mid-day, but it can cause blood sugar spikes and mid-day crashes. As a result, she warns you'll feel more tired, less focused and hangrier later in the day.
• Highly processed meats. Deli meats, bacon and sausages all make the list. "They tend to be high in sodium and saturated fat, which can contribute to fluid retention and high blood pressure and may negatively impact cardiovascular health," Routhenstein says.

Up Next:

Related: The ‘Healthy’ Lunch Staple That’s Secretly Destroying Your Energy

Sources:

• Michelle Routhenstein, MS, RD, CDCES, CDN, a preventive cardiology dietitian at EntirelyNourished.com
• Eleana Kaidanian, RD, CDN, CPT-WFS, a registered dietitian
• Amanda Sauceda, MS, RD, a registered dietitian
• Online Nutrition Resources at Your Fingertips. USDA.
• Chicken, broilers or fryers, meat and skin, cooked, roasted. FoodData Central.
• Fats in Foods. American Heart Association.
• Why do I need to include fat in my diet? UC Davis.
• Water and healthier drinks. CDC.

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Summer can be tough on your skin. Between hot weather, air-conditioned offices, long travel days and sweaty workouts, it often feels impossible to keep your complexion looking fresh and hydrated from morning to night.

That's why many beauty shoppers, like me, are searching for products that can provide a quick refresh without adding extra steps to their routines. Now, one popular skincare brand has launched a new product designed to do exactly that.

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Bubble

Bubble Skincare has officially launched Cosmic Rain Hydrating Mist, a new dermatologist-developed facial spray inspired by the brand's bestselling Cosmic Silk moisturizer. The new product is available beginning June 11 through Ulta Beauty and hellobubble.com..

Bubble describes Cosmic Rain as skincare's version of an "everything spray." Instead of serving just one purpose, the mist is designed for a variety of everyday situations. Whether you're dealing with an overheated commute, post-workout skin, dry airplane air or a midday makeup touch-up, the goal is to deliver instant hydration without leaving behind a sticky or greasy feeling.

Bubble Skincare Cosmic Rain Hydrating Mist, $15 at Ulta

Ulta

Shop It!

"Cosmic Rain started with a question we kept hearing from both our dermatologist advisory board and our community: how do you keep skin hydrated throughout the day without piling on more skincare?" said Bubble founder and CEO Shai Eisenman.

Cosmic Rain has a fine, milky formula containing Aquaxyl, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, ceramides, allantoin and rice bran water. Together, these ingredients help replenish moisture, support the skin barrier and give skin a plumper, radiant look.

According to Eisenman, the team focused on creating a product that would fit seamlessly into everyday life rather than staying on a bathroom shelf.

Related: Ulta's Radiant New Makeup Product Delivers a Beautiful Bronzed Glow in Seconds

"Of course it works beautifully in a skincare routine, but I actually think the magic happens outside of the bathroom. Before a meeting. After a workout. On a plane. After makeup. Halfway through a long day when your skin just isn't looking its best anymore," she added.

Early reviews have been overwhelmingly positive. Some shoppers say the mist feels lightweight even in humid weather, while others praise its ability to leave skin feeling refreshed without any heavy residue. Several reviewers also say it has become a staple in their skincare routines.

Priced at $15 to $16 depending on retailer listings, Cosmic Rain focuses on hydration, barrier support and on-the-go convenience, making it perfect for shoppers looking for a simple way to keep their skin feeling comfortable and refreshed all summer long.

Related: Get Instant Glass Skin With This Hydrating New Product at Ulta

The Artemis II mission, which took a crew on a flyby around the moon this past April, became an internet sensation not only because it marked an exciting new era for space travel but also because the crew members became beloved by the public.

Those members included NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover and Christina Koch and Canadian Space Agency astronaut Jeremy Hansen. While each astronaut made their own impact, there's no question that Koch in particular had many people excited.

Although Koch is far from the first woman to go to space, she is the first woman who has traveled beyond low Earth orbit. That milestone led to an outpouring of support online, some of which came in the form of emotional video edits on platforms like TikTok and Instagram that celebrated what it meant for a woman to be making this trip around the moon.

Many were hoping to see the upcoming Artemis missions build on this momentum, which seemingly made it all the more disappointing that the Artemis III crew will not include women. The crew is confirmed to comprise astronauts Randy Bresnik, Luca Parmitano, Andre Douglas and Frank Rubio.

It didn't take long for the internet to respond with intense backlash over this decision—so much so that, now, NASA has addressed the criticisms directly in a statement.

Taking to social media, NASA shared a Threads post reading, "We’ve seen your posts and your reactions to the Artemis III announcement. Here’s some insight from NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman to add context to the discussion."

The statement, attached to the post as an image, is about one page long. Among its key points are Isaacman's assertions that "The crew selection does not involve any political appointees" and "The Astronaut Office assigns the crew that gives the mission the best chance of meeting its objectives."

Rather than alleviating frustrations, the post seems to have initiated a brand-new wave of backlash. One comment reads, "'I have friends who are women, so I like get how it feels'. Signed, NASA man." Another says, "@nasa has launched 44 all-male crews and 0 all-female crews. We never have to doubt whether a man will get a spot on the crew, but we never know if a woman will get one."

Yet another commenter said, "So what I’m reading is that we have incredibly qualified women, we just didn’t pick them for this mission?" There were a few more lighthearted jabs at the statement as well, including one comment reading, "A swing and an artemiss."

Sosie Bacon, the daughter of legendary actors Kevin Bacon and Kyra Sedgwick, is a rising that resembles her talented mom.

Kevin Bacon is best known for iconic films like Diner, Footloose, Apollo 13, and Mystic River. Sedgwick worked her way into our hearts in the ’90s grunge classic Singles, and earned acclaim for her role on The Closer. But it’s their daughter, Sosie, 34, who's also a rising star, with small roles in shows like Mare of Easttown and Scarpetta. The brunette beauty hit the red carpet to attend the Tribeca Talk Creator Economy Spotlight event at The Lighthouse Campus this week in New York City, and we were struck by how much she looks like her mom. While her hair is a different color, Sosie boasts the same dark eyes and stunning facial features as her screen star mother.

Photo by Theo Wargo on Getty Images

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What Have Kyra Sedgwick and Kevin Bacon Said About Working With Their Children?

While working with family can be a tricky business, Kyra Sedgwick said things went smoothly on the set of Family Movie, in which she stars alongside her husband, daughter, and son, Travis.

“When you’re dealing with actors, you know, that you’re directing that aren’t your children, you’re not like going, ‘How’s their day? Are they okay?’ or ‘Can I help them with this thing?’ And I think it was really hard to separate that at times,” Kyra told Entertainment Weekly. “But I just kept trying to remind myself … I was just utterly impressed with their ability to have stuff going on in their lives and their ability to just show up on set and, like, that stays at home.”

Bacon echoed his wife, telling the publication there was a lot of “pride” to work with his kids.

“They both have an incredibly strong work ethic, a very strong concern and empathy for people and their jobs, and respect amongst crews,” he said. “So that always just makes you feel good.”

Related: Heidi Klum’s Daughter Leni Just Landed a Forever Guess Campaign—and Fans Are Noticing One Thing

It’s an exciting year for book fans. Amazon has confirmed another book adaptation is on its way, and this time, it’s Things We Never Got Over by Lucy Score.

The romance novel is the first in the Knockemout series, and it arguably put Score on the map. It became a #1 New York Times and Wall Street Journal best-seller, bringing an irresistible enemies-to-lovers story to the masses.

Score announced the exciting news on Instagram, sharing that not only is Things We Never Got Over being adapted, but that the first script has already been written. Ringers creators Eric Charmelo and Nicole Snyder have written the script, and they will serve as showrunners on this fast-track production.

There isn't an official title for the first episode just yet. There's still time for that!

View this post on Instagram

Getting a series order from Amazon, the series continues the push for female-driven romance shows. After the success of The Summer I Turned Pretty, the streamer has pushed for more romance. There have already been a number of book-to-screen adaptations confirmed, including The Miles High Club novels by T.L. Swan and the Rose Hill series from Elsie Silver. 

Things We Never Got Over starts with Naomi Witt leaving her husband-to-be at the altar. Instead, she heads to a small Virginia town, where her twin sister, Tina, needs help. However, Naomi finds herself stranded in this town after Tina steals are car, phone, and purse. To top it all off, Tina has left behind her teenage daughter, and now Naomi needs to figure out what to do with her niece to care for.

It quickly became one of the most-read titles on Kindle as soon as it was released in 2022. There are now three novels in the Knockemout series, and while there is no word on whether these next books will be adapted, there is hope. It will depend on the success of the first season on Prime Video.

The creators know the work they have in store for them, sharing that the fan base is “wildly passionate” about the characters. They are “excited to introduce the world of Knockemout to Prime Video audiences everywhere.”

Related: Amazon Continues Its Romance Push With NYT Bestelling Four-Book Small-Town Series

This year marks a pair of remarkable milestones when it comes to Matt Damon's Hollywood career.

It's now been 20 years since The Departed hit theaters and a full decade since Damon's latest turn as his iconic action hero, in Jason Bourne.

While speaking exclusively to Parade about his Water.org nonprofit's new Get Blue initiative — which let U.S. consumers get involved easily by purchasing everyday products for a good cause — the Oscar winner, 55, also took time to reflect on his Bourne character, and if another film could ever come about.

"We're always looking to try to get another one of those because we loved it, everyone who worked on them," Damon told Parade. "So there's always some attempt going on to write, to come up with a new story. So if you have anything, let us know."

Meanwhile, the Good Will Hunting star himself is coming up with new ideas in other areas, but for the sake of his charity. He recently expanded his entertainment repertoire, for example, by teaming up with Grammy-winning artist and producer Hit-Boy to try and rap about his Get Blue initiative. Yes, Damon tried to be a rapper.

"Luckily, Hit-Boy is a good actor, so he could keep a straight face through that," Damon told Parade with a laugh. "We're always looking for things that are kind of silly or things that might kind of stop people a little bit and cut through the noise. And that was a really fun one to do... But anything to try to catch people's attention and get kind of open the door and get them into this world, so that we can expose them to this problem, and then show them, you know, the very good news that there are solutions in place, and that they can help."

Check out Damon with Hit-Boy, 39, in an insightful and comedic behind-the-scenes video here.

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Oh, to go back to a Saturday morning in 1998, watching Pokémon while eating way-too sugary cereal and trying to conceive a convincing reason my parents should take me to get another pack of Pokémon cards (turns out they were a good investment, DAD). I remember wanting, more than anything, for Pokémon to be real. Turns out, kids nowadays aren’t much different.  

Despite the many tech advances and hundreds of new toy lines, over the last 30 years, since Pokémon made their debut, today’s young Pokémon fans are just as passionate as ever. They’re especially passionate now that many have joined their Pokémon-obsessed parents. Catching them all has truly become a family affair as parents and kids play games like PokémonGo and Poketopia and still collect cards for either the table top game or for admiring in a binder. Now, LEGO is providing a whole new, exciting way for families to connect with the Pokémon fandom. 

You may have seen the release of the Pokémon adult LEGO sets to celebrate the 30th anniversary. Fans actually crashed both LEGO’s and Pokémon’s websites when preorders were announced. Turns out, LEGO and Pokémon have an 80% crossover of fans. So it was no surprise to LEGO that the first release of this collaboration was a success. While those sets were great for the nostalgic fans, they were more for display and collecting. It left a gap for those younger fans who may not get as much out of a LEGO set you admire from a distance. Of course, LEGO had a solve for this. They didn’t just make a line for younger fans to adore, they included their SMART Play technology to make a set that really brings the fun of Pokémon to life.

I got to attend the reveal of these new sets at SXSW London and, yes, I got to actually play with, battle and cuddle (Jigglypuff is my GURL) the Pokémon LEGOs. I also had a chance to chat with LEGO group designers Siddharth Muthyala and Mike Anderson who worked on the development of the new SMART Play Pokémon sets. (Fun fact: As with every project at LEGO, their designers are chosen with care. Everyone on the team is a fan of Pokémon and already knew the fandom, lore and stats.)

As a fan myself, I had a few main takeaways from the event but my main one was how great of a job they did bringing the battling format fans love from the game to life. More about that below!

Related: How Much Are Your Pokémon Cards Really Worth? Here Are 25 of the Most Expensive Pokémon Cards of All Time

Courtesy Devon Sherer

What Is LEGO SMART Play?

LEGO SMART Play is new to the 2026 lineup. It's all starts with a LEGO SMART Brick that delivers open-ended physical play through responsive technology that reacts in real-time. This allows kids to still explore with imaginative play, while also incorporating a bit of tech into their creations to make them reactive to their play. Sets will come with LEGO SMART Tags and LEGO SMART Minifigures that expand the responsive play experiences, all while remaining compatible with the existing LEGO System in Play.

Related: I Got a Sneak Peek at LEGO’s New ‘Smart Play’ Brick—and It’s a Total Game-Changer for Families

Courtesy Devon Sherer

What Surprised Me Most About the New LEGO SMART Play Pokémon Line

Seeing a bunch of adults battling with Pokémon LEGOs was such a fun experience. The joy was truly infectious.

Battling is done by bringing two Pokémon close together until battle mode is activated. The SMART Brick will announce this by playing a song that really is reminiscent of the game’s battle songs. To land an attack, bring the Pokémon to the other in quick motions. It can be from any angle on the Pokémon—not just SMART Brick to SMART Brick.

The designers said this was a really important feature since they know kids are going to want to pretend to use certain attacks like claw or tailwhip. I’m sure it will cause some slight problems with new users as kids struggle with spacial awareness. Even the adults had a few bonked fingers. But the more you get used to it, the easier it becomes. You can also dodge attacks by pulling your Pokémon away. For a bigger attack, you can pull away and wind your Pokémon up until a noise confirms that the mega attack is ready. 

I actually really like that it encourages kids to get up and be more physical. The designers say it was exciting to watch the kids run around the test room and hide behind couches.

“So for battle, we had this big workshop with the kids where we just give them two Pokémon without explaining it," Muthyala tells Parade. "And we asked, 'OK, how are you going to attack each other?' 'I'll do [it] like this.' That inspired kind of like fast attacks, and then we'll go like, 'Oh, but how can you defend?' 'Oh, I'm just going to go away.’ So it's really inspired by like how you think that play.”

I loved that there’s some basic battle how-to in the build instructions but LEGO encourages trainers to test and discover their own battle strategies. In typical LEGO fashion, it’s up to you to really build the whole experience. 

Related: Gotta Catch 'Em All! Here Are Our Picks for the Top 10 Pokemon Games

3 More Personal Favorite Things from the First Look

Here are the three other features I really was impressed by as a Pokémon fan, LEGO fan, mom and kid at heart.

1. Training and discovery 

Every Pokémon fan knows that training and bonding with your Pokémon is a huge part of any trainer’s journey.  While testing the sets with kids, LEGO discovered they wanted to be Pokémon Trainers when they grew up and wished their buddies were real (honestly, I still feel this way). They found this to be a great reason to bring in their SMART Play tech. They want every SMART Play set to be intentional and only incorporate the tech when it brings value to the fans. 

So it was important that kids could actually train their Pokémon to be stronger in battle. Once the Pokémon are in "Train mode," a song (that sounds like the classic Pokémon game tune) plays, which I love. Depending on what set you get, you can hit targets that trigger reactions or create your own targets.

Just like in the games, trained Pokémon are stronger in battle but some Pokémon are stronger than others right off the bat. Training can help a weaker Pokémon catch up to a stronger one. Trainers can also discover different personality traits about their Pokémon through play. For example, some Pokémon like different foods than others. Trainers will have to test to find out and see if their Pokémon will give them a satisfying burp after they “finish” their snack.

Now, unlike the games, training doesn't stay with your Pokémon after playtime is done. Once the brick is removed from the Pokémon’s SMART Brick censor, you start over. I was unsure about this feature when I first heard it. When I asked the designers about it, they admitted it was something they struggled deciding on. They thought that younger trainers would get the most play this way, which I don’t disagree with. They also noticed kids were less into the stats and more into getting right into training, battling and playing. 

Courtesy Devon Sherer

2. Fandom Easter eggs

Of course when you have real fans working on a project, it’s going to have fun nods and Easter eggs that only real fans will get. For example, the designers came up with certain proportion rules based on the “real” proportions of each Pokémon. They admitted it isn’t a perfect scale due to some of the design limitations (they still needed to be easy for kids to hold) but big Pokémon will always have bigger proportions.

Types are relevant in battle too. So if you know your Pokémon types, you’ll be better off in battle. And yes, LEGO Pokémon can be dual-types like in the games. Charizard is both a flying and fire type in the SMART Brick universe. 

Plus, some of the other sets have fun nods to the anime and game storylines. Anderson tells Parade he really loves some of the hidden details in Mewtwo’s set. He didn't point any out to us as he wants the fans to discover them. But all of the sets feature fun nods to the show and games.

“A lot of the sets are designed with the Pokémon knowledge as well, where Pokémon are in the Pokémon world, how hard a Pokémon [is] to catch," he explains.

3. Play isn’t just tied to SMART Play

Look, I love the SMART Play system. I think it’s a beautiful tech addition that inspires imagination and play instead of doing it for kids. But as a parent, I want my kid’s toys to be versatile and, yes, maybe sometimes quiet…so, I also really appreciate that while the SMART Brick system does work with all the sets, you don’t have to invest in the SMART Play system if you choose not to for this series. There’s 10 compatible sets and two all-in-one. This allows for more of the sets to be reasonably priced and more accessible. 

They never want LEGO fans to feel left out because of a set (well other than what we all can reasonably justify spending on one of the best hobbies ever). It’s been a core value for LEGO as bricks from 1956-on will still click, and they aren’t changing that any time soon. I’m thrilled that SMART Play doesn’t affect that. 

If kids want to, they can still play with these sets without the SMART Brick. They need to charge eventually! Play doesn’t have to stop because of that. In the 10 sets that don’t need SMART Play, the designers have come up with some fun storylines for kids to explore through play, like finding Mew with a Pokédrone or battling fires with Squirtle or getting Gangar’s treasure. 

How To Preorder the LEGO SMART Play Pokémon Sets

Preorder is live for all 12 sets! They release in August and should be an easy add for many Christmas lists this season. Here are some of the specific sets you can check out:

• SMART Play: Charizard vs. Jolteon Ultimate Battle, $119.99
• SMART Play: Mewtwo's Lab Break, $69.99
• SMART Play: Eevee and Lapras's Treasure Hunt, $59.99
• SMART Play: Drone Search for Mythical Mew, $49.99

(If your favorite Pokémon isn’t in any of the 12 sets you could try to build it now and then invest in the SMART Brick sensor from a similar type of Pokémon. Someone, please make a Psyduck using Squirtle’s ID!)

I have a feeling they will expand on this series if this one does well. You could see it in the designers' eyes that there are lots of ideas. In the meantime, I gotta rehearse my Jigglypuff song because that diva and I have some training to do. 

Up Next:

Related: I Just Attended the 2026 Toy Fair in NYC—Here Are the 4 Trends I'm Most Excited About

Sources:

• Siddharth Muthyala, LEGO designer
• Mike Anderson, LEGO designer

Ron Swanson (Nick Offerman) was a unique character, working in local government while opposing the government. His diet almost solely consisted of meat, which made him ridiculous.

Offerman, 55, reflected on his Parks and Recreation character and what fans got wrong about him.

Nick Offerman Refuses to Play Another Ron Swanson

The sitcom ended in 2015 after seven seasons. The actor talked about how people viewed his mustached character with Variety.

"Ron is a smart and avid hunter, so they assumed he must be a misogynist," he explained. "They made a lot of incorrect assumptions, hoping to find an avatar for their ideologies. So that drew me in; I thought, ‘Well, no, if you pay attention, you’ll see that Ron is a feminist, or ‘Ron is a true libertarian. He’s the best man at a gay wedding.’"

Related: Mariska Hargitay Makes Rare Appearance With Her Look-Alike Son

The episodes tried to make this aspect of the character clear. His ex-wives were all strong women because that is his type. One of them were played by his real wife, Megan Mullally. He also had a lot of respect for Leslie Knope (Amy Poehler) despite her loving working for the government.

Fans loved the character, but Offerman made sure not to play a similar one after the NBC show ended. It's not because he didn't have the opportunity.

"All these offers came in of, ‘OK, this isn’t Ron Swanson, but he’s an ex-Marine and he’s great at grilling,’" he revealed. "I was like, ‘That’s Ron Swanson.’ So I told my agents, ‘Let’s create some daylight and I’m just going to work at my wood shop for a while.’"

Offerman hosted a crafting competition show with Poehler called Making It. It was a perfect fit with his woodworking interest and a break from the character. Making It lasted for one season.

Related: Why Rider Strong Took Back Saying ‘Never’ to ‘Boy Meets World’ Spin-Off

For many Americans, hiring a financial advisor feels like something reserved for people with six-figure salaries, large investment accounts, or complex wealth-management needs. But according to Nadia Vanderhall, financial planner, educator, and founder of The Brands and Bands Strategy Group, that's one of the biggest misconceptions in personal finance.

Courtesy of Nadia Vanderhall

"One of the biggest myths I see is that financial planning is only for people who already have money," Vanderhall told Parade. Those who could benefit most from financial guidance are often the ones trying to balance rising costs, pay down debt, save for retirement, and build an emergency fund—all while earning less than $100,000 a year.

Do I Need a Financial Advisor If I'm Not Rich?

One of the most common things Vanderhall hears from prospective clients is, "I'll focus on financial planning once I make more money." But financial decisions don't wait for the right income level. People are already deciding how much to save, whether to contribute to a 401(k), how to manage debt, and how to prepare for unexpected expenses. The need for a financial plan exists long before someone reaches a certain income threshold.

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For a client earning $45,000, the focus might be on stabilizing cash flow, building an emergency fund, and understanding workplace benefits. For someone earning $120,000, it may shift toward tax efficiency, investing strategies, and maximizing savings. "Income changes the math, but it doesn't change the need for direction," Vanderhall says.

Financial Planning for Beginners: Why You Need a Plan, Not Another Money Hack

Vanderhall says many clients come to her overwhelmed after consuming years of online financial advice — budgeting tips, investing videos, and debt-payoff strategies. "What I've found is that most people don't need another budgeting app or another financial influencer telling them to skip coffee," she says. "They need someone to help them connect the dots between where they are today and where they want to go."

Beginning with a client's "money story," Vanderhall believes the experiences and beliefs shape a person's relationship with money long before adulthood.

What a Financial Advisor Actually Does for Middle-Income Earners

Photo by Pla2na on Getty Images

Some of Vanderhall's most impactful client conversations have little to do with investing. Instead, they center on navigating layoffs, understanding workplace benefits, paying off debt, establishing emergency savings, and creating a realistic path toward long-term financial goals. Many of her clients aren't trying to preserve wealth — they're trying to build it for the first time.

"As a financial planner and educator, I've learned that financial planning isn't about how much money you have," Vanderhall says. "It's about helping people make the most of what they have while building toward what's next."

Related: Ready to take the leap and speak with a professional?

Financial Planning Is about Making the Most of What You Have

For people worried they don't have enough money to justify working with an advisor, Nadia Vanderhall believes financial planning isn't reserved for the wealthy, and anyone can make smarter decisions, gain confidence, and create a roadmap for the future—regardless of what's currently in their bank account.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice

When most people think of LEGO, they picture children building colorful towers, intricate race cars, and detailed castles. But according to health experts, LEGO building for seniors may be an overlooked tool for healthy aging. Researchers and clinicians are increasingly interested in how LEGO bricks can support cognitive health, fine motor skills, and emotional well-being among older adults. Studies show this iconic toy may offer surprising benefits beyond childhood and into retirement.

LEGO Building and Brain Health for Seniors

Photo by Matthias Kulka on Getty Images

Unlike passive activities such as watching television, LEGO building requires active participation from several areas of the brain at once. Users must follow instructions, plan ahead, solve problems, and visualize how pieces fit together — making it one of the more engaging brain activities for older adults available today.

"The process of assembling bricks using LEGO requires extremely accurate movement of the fingers and hands; the same level of coordination required by both hands working together in harmony; and maintaining visual spatial awareness for placement,"Dr. Lori Bohn, a Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Medical Director at Voyager Recovery Center, told Parade. "All of these cognitive abilities will improve with regular practice. This is why there is growing interest in developing programs based on LEGO activities, specifically designed for older adults and individuals diagnosed with dementia. These types of meaningful and experiential activities provide cognitive stimulation and also promote a sense of completion and creative expression."

Related: 5 Popular Retirement Hobbies That Quietly Drain Your Mental and Financial Wellness

How LEGO Helps Seniors Maintain Dexterity and Problem-Solving Skills

The benefits of LEGO for older adults aren't limited to mental exercise. Maintaining everyday dexterity is important for tasks such as writing, cooking, and using technology, and LEGO building provides a fun and engaging way to keep those fine motor skills active. Utilizing small LEGO pieces requires precision, coordination, and hand control — skills that can decline with age if they aren't regularly used.

Photo by KariHoglund on Getty Images

"Building with LEGOs is an ideal way to provide a senior population with both cognitive and physical stimulation," Dr. Shannon Franklin, a licensed psychologist at Element Q Healing, shared with Parade. "The planning aspect of designing a project involves problem-solving as well as utilizing your visual-spatial skills. In addition, using small pieces in this activity will help you keep your fine motor movement and hand dexterity functioning."

LEGO as a Creative Outlet That Supports Senior Mental Well-Being

Experts say the emotional and mental health benefits may be just as valuable as the physical ones. Many older adults find LEGO building relaxing because it encourages focused concentration without the pressure of competition or performance. It can also serve as a meaningful social activity and a great way to bond with adult children or grandchildren.

LEGO bricks aren't a cure for cognitive decline, but experts agree they offer an enjoyable and accessible way for older adults to challenge their minds, strengthen fine motor skills, and stay creatively engaged. For many seniors in retirement, one of the best brain-boosting activities may be a childhood favorite that never went out of style.

A retired homicide detective is weighing in on why investigators may still want to speak with a woman wanted in a separate Arizona kidnapping case, even as officials stress it is not connected to the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie.

The Pima County Sheriff's Department is searching for a 40-year-old woman named Coral Michelle Smith who is "wanted on kidnapping and assault charges involving an unidentified female victim," according to Fox News Digital's Mike Ruiz. Although the sheriff's department has confirmed that Smith's case is not related to the Guthrie case, retired homicide detective Chris McDonough says individuals tied to unrelated cases may still be approached as part of standard investigative procedure.

"In any major missing person or abduction-type of investigation, the investigators are going to cast a wide net,” McDonough said on Jesse Weber Live. "This would be a very standard protocol to try to find [Smith] and see if they can connect her in any way, shape or form [to the Guthrie case]," he continued, adding, "They’re going to ask her about any familiarity around the Guthrie home. What’s the word on the street?"

McDonough said that while the two cases are not connected, there's always a possibility that Smith "may have information that may connect something."

Details surrounding Smith's case remain unclear, but Ruiz has reported that the unidentified female victim has been located. Smith, however, remains at large.

Guthrie, 84, has been missing since Sunday, Feb. 1. Authorities believe that she was abducted from her home in Arizona in the middle of the night. Anyone with information is asked to call Tucson’s 88-Crime hotline at 1-520-882-7463 or the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI.

READ NEXT: Former FBI Agent Points to ‘Strange’ Detail Involving Nancy Guthrie’s Security Cameras

In just the past year, researchers have uncovered new geological structures, traces of ancient stardust, and thriving ecosystems beneath Antarctica's ice shelves. When most people think of Antarctica, they picture a desolate expanse of snow and ice. But beneath the frozen surface, scientists are beginning to understand why this remote continent may hold the keys to Earth's past, present, and future.

In just the past year, researchers have uncovered new geological structures, traces of ancient stardust, and thriving ecosystems beneath Antarctica's ice shelves. Together, these discoveries paint a picture of a continent full of hidden worlds — and scientists say the biggest finds may still be buried beneath the ice.

Scientists Discover a Vast Hidden Structure Beneath Antarctica's Ice

Photo by Holger Leue on Getty Images

Ice covers nearly 99 percent of the Antarctic continent, but what lies underneath is far from empty. Using radio-echo sounding data, scientists identified a massive fan-shaped network of interconnected basins buried beneath the ice in East Antarctica. The newly named East Antarctic Fan-shaped Basin Province (EAFBP) includes approximately 30 linked basins that had previously been studied as separate features. Researchers now believe they form a single continent-scale geological structure shaped by ancient tectonic forces.

The discovery could help scientists better understand how Antarctica transformed over hundreds of millions of years — and how the land beneath the still-moving ice sheet continues to change today.

Ancient Stardust Found Trapped in Antarctic Ice

Antarctica isn't only revealing Earth's geological history — it's also helping scientists trace the history of our solar system. Using the Heavy-Ion Accelerator Facility, researchers recently discovered traces of radioactive iron-60 trapped within Antarctic ice. This rare isotope forms during supernova explosions and likely arrived on Earth aboard interstellar dust particles millions of years ago. By analyzing ancient ice, scientists are learning more about the solar system's journey through the Local Interstellar Cloud.

Photo by Alones Creative on Getty Images

Antarctica is effectively functioning as a cosmic archive, preserving evidence of stellar explosions that predate human existence. Each layer of ice drilled could reveal more secrets about our galaxy's distant past.

Thriving Ecosystems Discovered Beneath Antarctica's Ice Shelves

When a massive iceberg broke away from Antarctica's George VI Ice Shelf in 2025, scientists explored the newly exposed seafloor, expecting to find a barren environment. Instead, they discovered thriving Antarctic ecosystems filled with corals, giant sponges, and other marine life — organisms that may have survived beneath the ice for centuries without any access to sunlight.

Photo by Leigh Tait on Getty Images

Combined with the EAFBP findings revealing a complex network of 30 connected basins beneath the ice, further research may help explain how these ecosystems have sustained themselves in complete darkness for so long.

Related: While scientists dig deeper into the Earth, don't forget to look up.

Antarctica's Hidden Worlds Are Just Beginning To Be Explored

Taken together, these Antarctica discoveries reveal a surprising truth: this frozen continent is far more than a barren wilderness. Beneath the ice lies a collection of hidden worlds — ancient geological landscapes, cosmic relics, and ecosystems that challenge what scientists thought was possible in one of Earth's most extreme environments. With much of Antarctica still unexplored, researchers believe the most significant discoveries may await.

The iconic, viral song with two billion plus TikTok views was written about a real murder.

Most of the people listening have no idea whatsoever.

Wheatus frontman, Brendan B. Brown, joined Ed Sheeran on stage at Perth's Optus Stadium during Sheeran's Loop Tour to perform "Teenage Dirtbag" together. The moment went viral on social media. It is just the latest sign of a comeback that has been in the making for years. 

@angelabrushephotography

Ed Sheeran Perth Night 2 surprise guest! 😍 . #edsheeran #perth #wheatus #looptour

♬ original sound - Angela Brushe Photography

The hashtag #teenagedirtbag has crossed two billion views on TikTok. A viral "Teenage Dirtbag photos" trend pulled in over a million people, including Madonna, Lady Gaga, Mark Ruffalo, Lil Nas X and Jon Bon Jovi. In 2023 the song even climbed back into the UK Top 40, more than two decades after it first came out.

The trending song that everyone is singing along to has a crazy backstory almost nobody knows about.

Wheatus released the single "Teenage Dirtbag" in the summer of 2000 as the first song off their debut album. It is a bouncy, feel-good singalong on the surface. What it is actually about is something else entirely.

Brown wrote about his own childhood, about the one summer that changed how he saw everything.

"It came from the summer of 1984 on Long Island, when I was 10 years old," Brown said in a 2012 interview. That summer, in the woods behind his house, a Satanic ritual teen murder took place. A teenager, named Ricky Kasso, committed the heinous murder and was arrested wearing an AC/DC T-shirt. The case has become one of the most talked-about true crime stories of the decade. Brown was just ten years old at the time, walking around with records by AC/DC, Iron Maiden and Metallica. Suddenly every parent, teacher and cop in the neighborhood thought the worst about him. "So that's the backdrop for that song," he said.

He has never softened the title since. "When I sing 'I'm just a teenage dirtbag,' I'm effectively saying: if you don't like it, that's your problem," Brown explained. "Just because I like AC/DC doesn't mean I'm a devil worshipper."

The Billboard Hot 100 Said No. The Rest of the World Said Otherwise

In the US, the song peaked at No. 7 on the Modern Rock Tracks chart but never quite made the Billboard Hot 100. Everywhere else it did much better. It hit No. 2 in the UK and No. 3 on the Eurochart Hot 100, breaking into the Top 10 in country after country.

Related: Avril Lavigne Delights Concert Goers with Special On-Stage Surprise

Since then, it’s been covered by artists like Sega Bodega, Cat Burns and Cavetown. It’s shown up on soundtracks for Dawson's Creek, The Hills and The Summer I Turned Pretty. Wheatus also marked the album's 25th anniversary with tours across Australia and New Zealand, playing the whole record from start to finish every single night.

"Teenage Dirtbag" came out right at the turn of the millennium. Y2K had turned out to be nothing at all. The internet was starting to change everything about how people heard music and connected with one another. Things felt new, and a little unknown.

Brown has his own theory about why the song has lasted this long, one his father gave him. "Every teenager has to go through that 'being an outsider' thing, at least a little bit," he said. "So that story is still the same for people, even if it's thirty years after I went through it."

Back in 1984, a ten-year-old, Brown, on Long Island lived it.

In 2026, two billion plus views later, people are still singing along.

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Iconic '90s rock band The Strokes is delaying the release of their much-anticipated seventh studio album, Reality Awaits.

The New York City rockers are pushing back the record's release until July 24, 2026. It was originally scheduled for release later this month.

Reality Awaits is the band's first album release in six years, marking their return to music in a big way. The record is helmed by lead single, "Going Shopping," which was released in April and soared to No. 1 on the New Alternative 40 chart. The second single, "Falling Out of Love," which dropped in May, also reached No. 1 on the New Alternative 40.

While no reason was given for the album's pushback, the band has announced a huge homecoming show at Flushing Meadows Corona Park in Queens, NY. The concert is the New Yorkers' first show in their hometown since 2023. Taking place on Oct. 2, 2026, support comes from Beach House, TV on the Radio, and Fcukers. An official artist presale will begin on June 17 at 10 am ET, with general sale beginning at 10 am ET on June 18.

In April, the five-piece announced the Reality Awaits World Tour, which will see the band perform in major cities across North America, the U.K., Europe, and Japan. The North American leg of the tour kicks off on June 12 in Manchester, TN, with stops in Chicago, IL, Boston, MA, Vancouver, BC, Milwaukee, WI, and more.

Guitarist Nick Valensi announced that he would not be present on the upcoming tours. “Nick will be taking a temporary break from the scheduled tour, but we look forward to his return,” the band wrote in a joint statement posted to their Instagram Stories, per Pitchfork. The duration of Valensi's break is unknown; Longwave frontman Steve Schiltz will be taking his place during the unspecified time period.

Related: Legendary '80s Pop-Synth Duo Announces Final Album Following Founding Member's Death

“Dream On” is one of Aerosmith’s best-known songs, but it took years for the famous power ballad to gain real traction across the United States.

The rock classic, written by frontman Steven Tyler, appeared on the band’s self-titled debut album in June 1973. Featuring Joe Perry’s explosive guitar work and Tyler’s soaring vocals, the song became a true underdog anthem.

Ultimate Classic Rockranked “Dream On” as one of the top 50 American Rock songs of all time, noting that the Boston-based band's first single wasn't a hit right away. “It took a late-1975 reissue of the 1973 song to finally break ‘Dream On’ into the Top 10, the band's first appearance there,” the outlet recalled. “The now-hot Aerosmith seized the moment and rereleased the power ballad live favorite from their debut LP, a concert staple since.”

“Dream On” failed to crack the Billboard Top 40 when it was first released and only went as far as No. 59 on the music chart in 1973.

Perry revealed that Aerosmith was almost dropped from their record label at the time. “We weren’t selling records. 'Dream On' was released and didn’t make a dent,” he told Rock Cellar magazine in a 2026 interview. “I mean, even getting through the second record, they were going to drop us after the first record because it didn’t do well. Right off the top, the ‘Dream On’ single didn’t take off. You know, that was the obvious single because it was a ballad, and that was the quickest route to get on the radio.”

But it took nearly three years for “Dream On” to become a real radio hit. On April 10, 1976, the song gained a second life when it peaked at No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100, thanks to a reissue following the success of the band’s third album, Toys in the Attic.

RELATED:1976 Rock Rebellion Anthem Was Written in 20 Minutes

The success of “Dream On” was a long time coming in another way. Tyler once told Rolling Stone he wrote the song years before he joined Aerosmith.

“When I wrote ‘Dream On,’ I went, ‘Where did this come from?’” he recalled. “I didn’t question it. When I read the lyrics back now, for a guy who was stoned, stupid, and dribbling, I got something out of there: ‘The past is gone/It went by like dusk to dawn.’”

Decades later, the rock legend still celebrates the song. In June 2018, as “Dream On” turned 45, Tyler posted to Twitter, now X, to share, “I wrote the music [to ‘Dream On’] when I was 17 on a pump organ in Sunapee, NH … Wrote the lyrics in 2 days at a hotel at Boston Logan Airport…Sang it live for the first time at the Shaboo Inn, CT… and got to sing it again tonight 45 years to the day of its release in Motor City USA.  … If it weren’t for the boys in Aero (and thank you [Boston radio station] WBCN), it never woulda seen the light of day.”

Related: Yungblud Teases 'Secret' With Aerosmith's Steven Tyler After VMAs Performance

Hair changes as we get older—one day you're complaining about how much time it takes to dry it all, and the next you're wondering where half of it went. As estrogen levels shift and hair naturally becomes finer with age, many women notice a loss of density, especially around the crown, hairline and part.

Additionally, not every hairstyle marketed as "volumizing" actually works for fine or thinning hair. Some cuts rely on excessive layering that can make ends look sparse, while others remove so much weight that hair appears even thinner than it is.

That's why strategic cuts, smart shaping and a little stylist know-how come into play. The right hairstyle can make fine hair look fuller, thicker and more dynamic without requiring an hour of styling every morning.

The good news is that many of the hairstyles that create the appearance of density also happen to be some of the most-requested cuts right now. From modern bobs and softly layered lobs to volume-boosting shags and face-framing styles, these cuts work overtime to fake fullness in all the right places. Read on for 12 hairstyles that make fine hair look noticeably thicker for women over 50, according to pro hairstylists.

Related: 7 Chic Haircuts for Women Over 60, According to a Celebrity Stylist

What Causes Fine Hair To Look Flat or Limp?

Fine hair often gets blamed for being flat, but there's actually a lot more going on beneath the surface. According to founder of Calista and pro hairstylistMaria McCool, fine hair has a "narrower diameter than other hair types," meaning it has "less internal structure to support lift and volume, especially at the root." From there, everyday factors start stacking the odds against it.

Natural oils can travel down fine strands more quickly, while humidity causes the hair shaft to swell and lose shape. Product choice also plays a major role. McCool tells Parade that many styling products are designed for thicker hair types and can end up "coating fine strands and making them harder to lift and style."

Over time, heat damage can make matters even worse by "breaking down the protein bonds that give each strand its resilience," leaving hair looking limp no matter how much teasing, spraying or blow-drying is involved. The result is hair that often needs a little strategic help—from both the right products and the right haircut—to maintain volume throughout the day.

Related: The 11 Best Hair-Growth Shampoos for Thinning, Breakage and Shedding—Tested by Trichologists

What’s the Difference Between Fine Hair and Thin Hair?

One of the biggest misconceptions is that fine hair and thin hair are the same thing—but they're actually describing two completely different concerns.

As McCool explains, "fine refers to strand size, while thin refers to density," meaning the number of hairs growing on the scalp. In other words, you can have a lot of fine hair, or you can have thick individual strands but not very many of them. The distinction is important because it changes how hair should be cut, styled and treated.

McCool notes that "the styling approach changes dramatically depending on whether you're addressing strand size, density or both," which is why two people with seemingly similar hair concerns may need completely different solutions. Understanding whether you're dealing with fine strands, low density or a combination of the two is often the first step toward finding a hairstyle that actually delivers the fullness you're after.

Related: The 9 Most Flattering Bob Haircuts for Women Over 60 With Thinning Hair

12 Hairstyles That ‘Fake Fullness’ on Fine Hair for Women Over 50

Here are the looks stylists recommend.

1. Horizontal, Wavy Bob

Getty

There’s something about a blunt bob that just instantly makes fine hair feel like it leveled up. As McCool puts it, "a blunt bob allows for maximum hair density from roots to ends," which is exactly why this cut creates that illusion of fullness without needing a ton of styling tricks.

The even, weighty perimeter helps the hair appear fuller instantly, while soft horizontal waves add movement without breaking up that density. To style, a volumizing product like Calista Jousse Styling Elixir is worked through damp hair before a rough dry builds natural body at the root.

Using your go-to styler, create soft, horizontal bends that enhance fullness without over-curling. The result is a modern, lived-in shape that enhances fine hair rather than exposing its lack of density.

2. Cropped Bob

Mike Marsland/WireImage

This cut is basically instant bounce in haircut form. McCool says a cropped bob that sits above the chin "instantly gives fine and thin hair more bounce, fullness and movement," and you can feel that shift immediately once the length is taken up.

Styling typically begins with your go-to styling cream applied to damp hair, followed by blow-drying with the head flipped upside down to maximize root volume. A heated round brush then smooths and shapes the cut into a polished, full-looking finish. The result is a lightweight style that appears denser simply because the hair is no longer weighed down by length.

Related: How To Ask for Mariska Hargitay’s Chic New Bob at the Salon, According to Her Stylist (Exclusive)

3. Mid-Length Flipped Ends

Vittorio Zunino Celotto/Getty Images

This one has that slightly retro-but-modern energy that just works on fine hair. McCool describes this mid-length style as instantly making hair appear fuller because it "creates lift at the roots." The flipped ends are just as important, adding what she calls "bounce and shape that builds visual density through the length."

Start with styling cream to prep the hair, followed by a rough dry to encourage root lift. A round brush or heated tool is then used to direct hair away from the face while flipping the ends outward. The combination of directional lift and outward movement helps fine hair read as thicker from root to tip.

4. Hollywood Curls

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Hot rollers are the secret weapon here, and McCool is fully in their corner because they "create soft, glamorous fullness and long-lasting curls without overworking the hair." Start by setting dry hair in sections using your favorite hot rollers, angled away from the face, and let them cool completely before brushing them out.

The transformation is kind of wild—suddenly there’s this soft, Old Hollywood body that fine hair usually doesn’t hold on its own. Then simply finish with hairspray for hold that still feels touchable. The key is not going too tight with the curl... it’s all about that brushed-out, airy volume.

5. Wispy Side Bangs

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Wispy side bangs work so well on fine hair because they subtly redistribute density rather than removing it. McCool explains that "the blunt cut keeps the ends looking full and healthy, while a layered bang adds fullness to the crown and lots of styling possibilities," which is exactly why this combo creates that lifted, balanced effect.

To style, put volumizing cream at the roots, followed by a rough dry to build that airy lift for "maximum volume." Then, going in with a round brush, smooth the bangs while gently beveling the ends under, creating a polished silhouette that still feels soft and full. A final mist of texture spray helps lift at the roots and adds "definition without weighing hair down," keeping everything light but visibly fuller.

6. Classic Pixie Cut

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The classic pixie is one of the strongest structural choices for fine hair because it removes the weight that causes collapse. McCool is clear that "a pixie cut can make fine, thin hair look much thicker because the shorter length removes weight that causes hair to pull downward and collapse." Styling is intentionally minimal, just using fingers to rough-dry and "create lift and texture through the cut."

The focus stays at the crown, where McCool notes fullness is built through "movement at the top and around the face." Once dry, use texture spray to add separation and definition, giving the pixie that piecey, modern finish that reads fuller simply because the structure is lighter.

7. Shaggy Pixie

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The shaggy pixie is where fine hair gets to feel playful, with texture doing most of the volume work. McCool emphasizes that "the textured, stacked layers create separation and volume, making the hair appear thicker and effortlessly cool." Styling leans into that undone energy: foams and creams are worked through damp hair, then the cut is tousled while drying so it never becomes too perfect.

McCool says "this style should not look too perfect—the more lived-in and messy, the better." That separation is what creates the illusion of density. A final pass of lightweight hairspray enhances the "movement and volume without losing softness," giving the cut its intentionally imperfect, fuller finish.

8. Collarbone-Length Cut

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The collarbone-length cut is a strategic sweet spot for fine hair, offering enough length for movement without sacrificing density. McCool explains that "collarbone-length hair can be a flattering cut for fine hair because it allows enough length for styling versatility without adding too much weight to collapse hair at the roots."

Put a volumizing product at the roots, followed by a round brush blow-dry for lift and bounce. Your trusty hot tool is then used to add soft waves, which McCool notes help "give hair the appearance of more body and thickness."

9. Curtain Bangs

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Curtain bangs are one of the most effective illusions for fine hair because they redistribute weight right where it matters most. "The right bangs can completely transform fine hair by adding shape, style and distribution of density," says McCool.

To achieve at-home, start by blow-drying upwards to keep the fringe "airy and lifted," ensuring it doesn’t collapse into the face. Aaron Grenia, co-founder of IGK Hair Care, also notes that fine hair "can look sparse around the hairline and curtain bangs are one of the smartest fixes" because they "add instant density at the front without removing weight anywhere else."

A touch of thickening mousse at the roots helps lock in that lift, making the bangs feel soft but structured.

10. Shoulder-Length 'Do

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Shoulder-length hair is a reliable go-to for fine textures because it avoids both heaviness and excessive shortening. McCool calls it "timeless, flattering and easy to style," particularly because it strikes the balance between movement and structure.

Start styling by grabbing your go-to round brush and blow out the hair to build root lift. Loose curls or waves are added with a curling iron to "give hair the appearance of more body and thickness."

Grenia says that "undone, piecey texture is one of the best visual tricks for fine hair" because it breaks up flatness and creates movement that reads as fullness.

11. Natural Curls

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Curls are "one of the greatest gifts for fine hair because texture automatically builds volume and fullness," says McCool.

Styling is all about enhancement, not control. Start by applying styling cream to wet hair and scrunch in to encourage definition. Curls are then diffused or air-dried, with McCool stressing that "avoiding touching the curls too much while drying" is key to maximizing shape and minimizing collapse. The result is a naturally fuller silhouette where the curl pattern itself creates the illusion of density.

12. Half-Up Style

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The half-up style is the ultimate strategic fix for fine hair that tends to lose volume throughout the day. It allows you to "build the fullness into the top and clip it in to stay secure." To create grip and lift, start by adding texture spray to your strands, followed by loosely pulling the top section back while pushing up at the crown for height.

Grenia also points out that "pulling the top section up creates lift at the crown and makes the hair that’s left down look noticeably denser." A light tug at the crown before securing the style ensures that subtle but impactful fullness that makes the entire look feel thicker and more intentional.

How To Add Volume to Fine Hair Without Weighing It Down

When it comes to adding volume to fine hair, the goal isn't piling on more product—it's choosing products that won't weigh delicate strands down in the first place. Grenia recommends lightweight formulas like aerosol mousses because their "aerated, ultra-light texture" helps create body without the heaviness that can make fine hair fall flat. He points to IGK Big Time Volume and Thickening Mousse, which is "heat-activated" and designed specifically to add "volume, body and thickness" to limp strands.

Texture sprays can also work wonders, Grenia says. A few spritzes followed by a quick scrunch can create instant fullness and movement, while applying extra product at the roots helps boost lift. Even dry shampoo can pull double duty, helping to not only absorb oil but also "add volume and texture," making them one of the easiest ways to fake fuller hair between washes without sacrificing softness or movement.

Can Heat Styling Damage Fine Hair More Easily?

If you've ever felt like your fine hair gets damaged just from looking at a flat iron, you're not imagining it. According McCool, "fine hair is more vulnerable to heat damage because the strand itself is more easily damaged by high heat and abrasion."

The good news is that heat styling doesn't have to be off-limits. McCool says that using "the right heat protectant" and quality tools can make all the difference. She notes that tools made with "ceramic and ionic technology are far gentler on hair than metal alternatives" because they help smooth the cuticle without creating excessive friction.

Just as important is how you style. Since fine hair has "limited structural resilience," McCool explains that minimizing "tension, tugging and pulling" during blowouts and styling sessions can help preserve the integrity of the hair over time. In other words, it's not necessarily heat itself that's the enemy—it's excessive heat, rough handling and the wrong tools working against already delicate strands.

Are Volumizing Shampoos Good for Fine Hair?

Yes—if they're formulated properly. Fine hair tends to get weighed down quickly by excess oil, product buildup and overly rich formulas, so the right volumizing shampoo can make a surprisingly noticeable difference.

McCool explains that fine hair benefits from shampoos that "remove buildup from the hair and the scalp while keeping the hair lightweight and lifted," noting that the best formulas "cleanse thoroughly without stripping" and help support volume at the root.

Grenia agrees, emphasizing that volumizing formulas should provide "volume and hydration without the weight," since fine strands still need moisture to stay healthy and resilient. Ultimately, both experts point to the same goal: clean, airy hair that isn't overloaded with heavy ingredients.

Related: 12 Things Stylists Are Begging Women Over 50 To Stop Doing if You Have Thinning Hair

What Type of Conditioner Works Best for Fine Hair?

When it comes to fine hair, conditioner is often where things go wrong. It can be tempting to reach for the richest, most nourishing formula on the shelf, but those heavier products are frequently the reason hair looks flat by lunchtime. McCool explains that fine hair needs a conditioner that delivers "real moisture and strength without leaving behind the coating or residue that collapses volume."

In particular, she notes that "heavy moisturizing formulas and silicone-laden conditioners are often the culprit behind flat, limp hair." Instead, the best conditioners for fine hair are "lightweight, hydrating and strengthening" and they provide enough moisture to keep strands healthy without sacrificing movement and body.

Think of it as a balancing act. Your hair should feel soft and conditioned, but still light enough to hold lift, bounce and shape throughout the day.

How To Keep Fine Hair From Falling Flat Throughout the Day

Keeping fine hair from falling flat throughout the day really comes down to a few smart, strategic habits, and McCool is all about building volume that actually lasts past the blowout.

She swears by flipping the head upside down while drying, saying it’s one of the easiest ways to "lift roots away from the scalp and build volume that lasts," which immediately sets the foundation for fuller-looking hair.

Once the shape is in place, she recommends locking it in with a buildable hold hairspray, misting at the roots for lift and through the lengths to "lock your style in place" without making hair feel stiff or crunchy.

For those midday moments when everything starts to deflate, McCool reaches for dry shampoo, working it into the roots to instantly absorb oil and "rebuild volume" on the spot.

Up Next:

Related: The 9 Most Flattering Bob Haircuts for Women Over 60 With Thinning Hair

Sources:

• Maria McCool, founder of Calista and pro hairstylist
• Aaron Grenia, co-founder of IGK Hair Care

Few country songs capture the spirit of the 1990s quite like "Dust on the Bottle." Released in 1995, the upbeat anthem became a defining hit for David Lee Murphy and introduced country fans to a song that would remain a favorite for decades.

The track appeared on Murphy's debut album, Out with a Bang, and quickly gained traction thanks to its memorable hook and relatable message. Comparing a lasting love to a bottle of wine that only gets better with age, the song struck a chord with listeners and became a staple of country radio throughout the mid-1990s.

By early 1996, "Dust on the Bottle" had climbed to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart, giving Murphy the first chart-topping hit of his career.

The song helped establish him as one of country music's rising stars and remains the recording most closely associated with his name.

What makes the story even more remarkable is what happened next.

Although Murphy continued releasing music and scored several additional hits, he never returned to the top of the country charts as a recording artist for more than two decades.

Songs like "Party Crowd" and "Everything's Gonna Be Alright" kept his name in front of fans, but "Dust on the Bottle" remained his lone No. 1 hit for an astonishing 23 years.

During that time, Murphy found success in another role: songwriter. He penned hits for some of country music's biggest stars, including Kenny Chesney, helping shape the sound of modern country music even when he wasn't topping the charts himself.

In 2018, Murphy finally returned to No. 1. His duet "Everything's Gonna Be Alright" with Chesney, 58, reached the top of the Billboard Country Airplay chart, ending a 23-year wait between chart-toppers.

Still, nearly 30 years after its release, the song's message still rings true: some things really do get better with age.

Related: This Country Classic Took More Than 80 Takes to Record—and It's Still Finding New Fans 66 Years Later