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Picture waking up to snow-dusted trees, sipping your morning coffee under a pile of blankets, and spending the evening curled up with a good book while a candle flickers nearby. Sounds pretty dreamy, right? Unfortunately, most of us can’t escape to a mountain cabin whenever the temperatures drop, but that doesn’t mean we can’t bring that cozy, tucked-away-in-bed feeling into our own homes.

All you need is the Santa Town 8-Piece Reversible Printed Microfiber Comforter Set at Macy’s. With its winter-inspired design and coordinating pieces, it’s a one-and-done way to give your bedroom that warm, inviting ski lodge aesthetic without redecorating the whole space. Better yet, the entire set is 67% off, bringing the price down from $100 to just $33. And yes, that price applies to every available size, so you don’t have to pay extra just because you have a bigger bed.

Santa Town 8-Piece Reversible Printed Microfiber Comforter Set, $33 (was $100) at Macy’s

Courtesy of Macy's

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The first thing that caught shoppers’ eyes with this comforter set is the “beautiful” winter scene printed across it which is “perfect for the holidays.” Against a snowy white background, you’ll find tall pine trees, bare branches, deer wandering through the woods, and little red cabins with smoke curling out of their chimneys. There’s even a tiny Santa flying overhead in his sleigh, with his reindeer leading the way. Most of the illustrations are black and white, with touches of red and green that give the whole design an old-fashioned Christmas feel.

What’s especially nice is that you get two completely different looks in one comforter; flip it over, and there’s a classic red-and-black buffalo check pattern on the other side. The plaid is a little more understated than the winter scene, so you could use it well beyond Christmas. You can even fold down the top of the comforter to show both patterns, which looks especially cute with the matching reversible pillow shams. 

Shop More Winter Bedding Deals

• Snow Day Reversible 8-Piece Comforter Set, $33 (was $100) at Macy’s 
• Winter Scene Deer Reversible 3-Piece Comforter Set, $22 (was $80) at Macy’s
• Holiday Pine Cardinal Reversible Microfiber 3-Piece Comforter Set, $22 (was $80) at Macy’s

And for $33, you’re getting a lot more than just a comforter. The eight-piece set also includes two shams, a flat sheet, a fitted sheet, two pillowcases, and a bed skirt. So, pretty much everything you need to make your bed is in one package. The white sheets help balance out the busier prints, while the red plaid bed skirt hides under bed storage. Everything is machine washable, too, which is especially convenient when you’re dealing with an entire bedding set. Just keep in mind that the twin size comes with six pieces instead, since it only includes one sham and pillowcase.

Related: Walmart’s $19 ‘Incredibly Soft’ Quilt Set Is a Lightweight Bedding Find for Chilly Fall Nights

You might not have a fireplace or a view of peaks, but you can still make your bedroom feel like the coziest cabin in the woods. Shop the Santa Town 8-Piece Reversible Printed Microfiber Comforter Set for $33 at Macy’s while it’s 67% off!

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Jasmine Mitchell says there was a moment during her Great British Baking Show run that viewers never got to see—and she thinks its absence says something positive about how the show treats its bakers.

On an episode of The Sacred podcast released back in June, Mitchell recalled that during week eight, she had exams on both Monday and Thursday. In a clip from the podcast episode shared to her Instagram on Wednesday, October 21, she explained how she was used to chatting with hosts Alison Hammond and Noel Fielding while she baked, but that week, she told them she needed to focus. “I just kind of didn’t give them much,” she said.

After finishing a bake five or 10 minutes early, Mitchell returned to her bench, took off her apron and burst into tears. She said she felt “deeply exhausted” and moved to a corner where the cameras could not really film her. Hammond came over and gave her a hug. Then, Mitchell recalled, Hammond invited her outside, where they danced in the rain.

That moment didn’t make it into the episode. “They cut it all,” Mitchell said, assuming the footage would be included, but noted that the show was not looking to turn every difficult moment into a dramatic storyline. “They really want to kind of look after us and hold us as contestants,” she said, adding that she knows that is not the case for all reality TV.

Fans praised the show in the comments of a clip on Instagram.

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“Using someone’s pain as a ‘sound bite’ is diabolical. This is why people love this show. The contestants are treated with care and respect,” one wrote.

“This is why I love bake off so much. There’s no drama or sabotage, just genuine love and encouragement ❤️,” another said.

A third replied, “Thank god for the editors 🙌🏼.”

READ MORE: ‘Great British Baking Show’ Alum Reveals Diagnosis: ‘I’ve Never, Ever Spoken About This Publicly’

Mitchell won the 2025 series of the beloved baking competition. The latest season (which premiered in the U.K. and on Netflix in late September) brings a change to the judges’ table. Nigella Lawson has joined Paul Hollywood, while Hammond and Fielding return as hosts.

Lawson took over for Prue Leith, who stepped away after nine seasons. When her casting was announced, Lawson acknowledged the big shoes she had to fill, saying, “I’m uncharacteristically rather lost for words right now!” She also called the opportunity both daunting and exciting.

Related: Paul Hollywood Reveals Why He’s So Tough on ‘Great British Baking Show’ Bakers—and It Goes Back to His Dad

A middle name has a way of changing the rhythm of an entire name. It can create a pause between a familiar first name and surname, add a little personality to a traditional choice or give parents a place to choose something more unexpected. And when the search starts with one letter, the possibilities feel much easier to narrow down.

The letter ‘R’ has plenty of range. There are polished classics such as Rachel, Rebecca and Robert, vintage choices including Rosamund and Reginald, modern surname-style options like Remington and Royce, and internationally rooted names like Rhiannon, Rukhsana, Ravi and Rohan.

The latest baby-name data from the Social Security Administration was released in May 2026, offering useful context for the names American parents are choosing for their children. In 2025, Olivia and Liam were the top-ranked girl and boy names nationally.

For the list below, these 100 R middle names bring together familiar choices and less expected possibilities, with a mix of linguistic traditions, vintage appeal, nature references, mythology and modern style.

Related: 100 ‘C’ Middle Names That Sound Especially Good in a Baby’s Full Name

Popular ‘R’ Middle Names for Girls

DavidPrahl, Canva

1. Rachel — From Hebrew, Rachel means “ewe” and is the name of Jacob’s wife in the Old Testament. Its biblical history and familiar sound make it a natural middle-name classic.
2. Rebecca — This Biblical name comes from Hebrew, though its precise ancient meaning is uncertain; proposed interpretations include “to join” or “to tie firmly.” Rebecca’s long history gives it a graceful, established quality.
3. Regina — A Latin name meaning “queen,” Regina was used by early Christians and later became established across Europe. Its regal meaning is particularly fitting for a middle name.
4. Renee — The French feminine form of René, Renee ultimately comes from the Latin Renatus, meaning “born again” or “reborn.” It has a polished, distinctly French feel.
5. Ramona — The Spanish and Romanian feminine form of Ramón, Ramona ultimately derives from a Germanic name associated with “wise protector.” Its literary history also owes something to Helen Hunt Jackson’s 1884 novel Ramona.
6. Raven — Taken from the English word for the black bird, Raven has a strong nature connection. The bird has also held symbolic significance in mythology and folklore across several cultures.
7. Raya — Raya has multiple cultural histories, including use as a Bulgarian form related to names such as Rayna and independent use in other languages.
8. Raina — Used in Bulgarian and other Slavic naming traditions, Raina is an alternate transcription of Rayna, a name associated with Regina and the Latin word for “queen.” Its soft sound gives it an elegant middle-name rhythm.
9. Rhea — The meaning of this ancient Greek name is uncertain, although some scholars have proposed connections with Greek words for “flow” or “earth.” In Greek mythology, Rhea was a Titan and mother of several Olympian gods.
10. Rhiannon — A Welsh mythological name probably derived from an older Celtic name associated with a “great queen.” Rhiannon is a central figure in the medieval Welsh tales known as the Mabinogi.
11. Riley — Originally an English surname, Riley developed from place names and can have different etymological roots. Its surname style gives a traditional first name a more relaxed, contemporary middle.
12. River — This English word name refers directly to a flowing body of water. It has a peaceful nature association and a modern, gender-neutral quality.
13. Rowan — Rowan has Irish roots through the name Ruadhán and is also associated in English with the rowan tree. The tree’s bright red berries give the name an appealing natural image.
14. Ruby — Taken from the gemstone name, Ruby ultimately comes from the Latin rubeus, meaning “red.” It has the warmth of a vintage color name with enduring jewelry-box appeal.
15. Rose — From the flower name, Rose ultimately traces to the Latin rosa. Its botanical simplicity and long history as a given name make it especially versatile in the middle position.
16. Rosalie — A French and German form related to Rosalia, Rosalie ultimately connects with the Latin rosa, “rose.” Its three-syllable shape adds a romantic flourish without overwhelming a shorter first name.
17. Rosalind — This literary classic derives from Old Germanic elements traditionally interpreted as “horse” and “soft” or “tender,” though its history became intertwined with the Latin phrase rosa linda, “beautiful rose.” Shakespeare also used Rosalind for the heroine of As You Like It.
18. Rosamund — Derived from Old Germanic elements meaning “horse” and “protection,” Rosamund was used in medieval England. It was later associated by popular reinterpretation with the phrase “pure rose.”
19. Rosemary — Rosemary has two established associations: It can combine Rose and Mary, or refer to the fragrant herb, whose Latin name, ros marinus, means “dew of the sea.” That double connection gives the name both floral and botanical appeal.
20. Roxana — This ancient name comes from an Old Iranian name meaning “bright” or “shining.” Roxana was the name of Alexander the Great’s first wife, giving the choice a notable historical connection.
21. Ruth — From Hebrew, Ruth is probably related to a word meaning “friend” or “companion.” The Biblical Ruth is remembered for her loyalty to her mother-in-law, Naomi.
22. Rochelle — Taken from the French place name La Rochelle, Rochelle is associated with “little rock.” It has a polished French quality while remaining familiar in English.
23. Robyn — Robyn is an English feminine form of Robin, which historically developed as a diminutive of Robert. Its spelling gives the familiar name a distinctly feminine appearance.
24. Romina — Romina is an Italian name whose exact origin is uncertain, though it may be connected with Romana and ultimately the Latin Romanus, meaning “Roman.” Its flowing sound works particularly well as a middle name.
25. Romana — The feminine form of the Latin name Romanus, Romana means “Roman” or “of Rome.” It has a graceful international quality and a subtle connection to ancient history.

Related: 100 ‘T’ Middle Names for Babies With Timeless Style and Strong Meanings

Unique and International ‘R’ Middle Names for Girls

26. Róisín — Roughly pronounced “ro-SHEEN,” this Irish name is a diminutive of Róis, itself connected with the Irish word for “rose.” It has a distinctly Irish identity and a lyrical sound.
27. Rhoda — From Greek, Rhoda is associated with the word rhodon, meaning “rose.” The name also appears in the New Testament, where Rhoda is a servant in the household of Mary, mother of John Mark.
28. Rhona — This Scottish name may derive from one of the Hebridean islands called Rona, whose name is associated with an Old Norse term meaning “rough island.” Its island connection gives it an appealingly windswept quality.
29. Rowena — Rowena’s exact origin is uncertain. It was recorded by the medieval chronicler Geoffrey of Monmouth and later popularized by Sir Walter Scott in Ivanhoe, giving it a distinctly literary history.
30. Rosetta — An Italian diminutive of Rosa, Rosetta ultimately shares the Latin floral root meaning “rose.” The name also evokes the Rosetta Stone, adding a memorable historical association.
31. Rosalia — From the Late Latin Rosalia, this name is derived from rosa, meaning “rose.” It has a long history in Italian and other European naming traditions.
32. Runa — Used in Scandinavian languages, Runa is the feminine form of Rune and is connected with the Old Norse word rún, meaning “secret” or “mystery.” Its compact sound feels modern despite its ancient roots.
33. Rumi — Rumi has several possible Japanese spellings and meanings depending on the kanji used; combinations can convey ideas such as lapis lazuli and beauty. It is also familiar internationally through the name of the celebrated Persian poet Rumi.
34. Rukhsana — This Urdu form of Roxana ultimately traces to an Old Iranian name meaning “bright” or “shining.” It has a particularly rich Persianate and South Asian naming history.
35. Radha — A Sanskrit name associated with “success” or “prosperity,” Radha is the beloved consort of the Hindu deity Krishna in Vaishnava traditions. She is also associated with devotion, beauty and compassion.
36. Radhika — A Sanskrit-derived name traditionally connected with Radha and used as an epithet or name associated with her. It carries strong roots in Hindu devotional traditions.
37. Rachana — From Sanskrit, Rachana means “creation” or “composition.” Used in several South Asian languages, it has an artistic meaning that makes it especially appealing as a middle name.
38. Roshni — Used in Hindi and Marathi, Roshni comes from a word ultimately of Persian origin meaning “light” or “brightness.” Its luminous meaning gives it an uplifting quality.
39. Rukmini — A Sanskrit name associated with the principal wife of Krishna in Hindu tradition. The name has a long religious and literary history in South Asia.
40. Reshma — Used in South Asia, Reshma comes from Persian and is associated with “silk.” Its soft sound and tactile meaning give it an elegant, distinctive quality.
41. Renata — The feminine form of the Latin Renatus, Renata means “born again” or “reborn.” It has longstanding use in Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Slavic and other European naming traditions.
42. Ragna — A Scandinavian short form of Old Norse names beginning with regin, meaning “advice” or “counsel.” It has an ancient Nordic sound while remaining concise.
43. Ragnhild — This Old Norse name combines elements meaning “advice” or “counsel” and “battle.” It was borne by several medieval Scandinavian women and has a strong historical character.
44. Rhosyn — A Welsh name meaning “rose,” Rhosyn provides a less familiar alternative to Rose while keeping the same botanical imagery. Its Welsh spelling gives it a distinctive visual style.
45. Rocío — A Spanish name meaning “dew,” Rocío comes from the Marian title María del Rocío, “Mary of the Dew.” It has a particularly strong cultural association with southern Spain.
46. Roimata — In Māori, Roimata means “teardrop.” The name is poetic and nature-adjacent, with a distinctly New Zealand cultural heritage.
47. Rufaro — A Shona name meaning “happiness,” Rufaro has a bright, celebratory meaning. Its rhythmic sound also gives it a memorable place between a shorter first name and surname.
48. Rumbidzai — From Shona, Rumbidzai comes from a verb meaning “praise.” It carries a joyful, spiritual quality and is an uncommon choice outside Zimbabwean naming traditions.
49. Ruxandra — The Romanian form of Roxana, Ruxandra ultimately shares the ancient Iranian root associated with brightness or shining. Its elaborate sound makes it an especially distinctive middle name.
50. Ruslana — The feminine form of Ruslan, Ruslana is used in Ukrainian and other Slavic contexts. Its deeper etymology is debated, but it has long been associated with the legendary hero Ruslan.

Related: 100 ‘B’ Middle Names for Boys and Girls With Meaning and Style

Popular ‘R’ Middle Names for Boys

oksun70, Canva

51. Ryan — An Irish surname-name traditionally associated with Ó Riain, meaning “descendant of Rían.” The older personal name Rían has an uncertain meaning, so simplified claims about a single definitive translation should be treated cautiously.
52. Roman — From the Latin Romanus, this name means “Roman” or “of Rome.” It has an ancient historical connection while also feeling crisp and contemporary.
53. Rafael — The Spanish and Portuguese form of Raphael, Rafael comes from Hebrew and means “God heals.” The name appears in the Bible through the archangel Raphael in the Book of Tobit.
54. Ramon — The Spanish form of Ramón, Ramon ultimately comes from a Germanic name associated with “wise protector.” Its compact shape makes it a strong complement to longer first names.
55. Raymond — From Germanic elements meaning “advice” or “counsel” and “protection,” Raymond carries the traditional sense of “wise protector.” It has a distinguished medieval history and a familiar modern sound.
56. Richard — A Germanic name built from elements meaning “ruler” or “power” and “brave” or “hardy,” Richard has been used by English royalty and numerous historical figures. Its substantial sound makes it an easy traditional middle.
57. Robert — From Germanic elements meaning “fame” and “bright,” Robert has been a major European name for centuries. It offers a classic, sturdy rhythm between more contemporary names.
58. Russell — An English surname derived from an Anglo-Norman nickname meaning “little red one,” ultimately related to the Old French rous, “red.” It has a distinctly vintage surname quality.
59. Reid — Originally a Scottish surname, Reid is associated with the Middle English and Scots word reid, meaning “red.” Its one-syllable shape is particularly useful for balancing a longer first name.
60. Rhett — Rhett developed as an English given name from a surname, connected to the Dutch name de Raedt, meaning “the advice” or “counsel.” Its enduring association with Gone With the Wind gives it a literary-pop-culture history.
61. Rhys — A traditional Welsh name, Rhys is thought to derive from an element meaning “enthusiasm” or “ardor.” Its short form and Welsh heritage give it a clean, distinctive sound.
62. Ronan — From the Irish Rónán, this name is built from words meaning “little seal.” Several early Irish saints bore the name, giving it an old Gaelic pedigree.
63. Rory — An anglicized form of the Irish Ruaidhrí, Rory combines elements traditionally interpreted as “red” and “king.” It has long been associated with Irish and Scottish history.
64. Ruben — Ruben is a form of the Biblical Reuben, from the Hebrew Re’uven, traditionally understood as “behold, a son.” Reuben is one of the 12 sons of Jacob in the Old Testament.
65. Roland — A Germanic name combining elements traditionally associated with “fame” and “land,” Roland became famous through the medieval epic The Song of Roland. It has a strong chivalric association.
66. Roger — From Germanic elements meaning “fame” and “spear,” Roger was introduced to England by the Normans. It has a substantial medieval history but retains an approachable sound.
67. Roy — Roy has more than one established origin. It can come from the Norman French roy, meaning “king,” or from the Scottish Gaelic name Ruadh, associated with “red.”
68. Royce — An English surname-name derived from Royce, a medieval form connected with Rose. It also has a strong modern association with the luxury automobile marque, giving the name a polished, tailored quality.
69. Rocco — The Italian form of Roch, Rocco has an uncertain ancient Germanic origin. Saint Roch, a medieval patron associated with protection from plague, helped establish the name’s Christian history.
70. Remington — An English surname derived from a place name meaning “town by the riverbank.” Its modern surname style gives a traditional first name a more contemporary edge.
71. Ravi — From Sanskrit, Ravi means “sun.” It is also the name of a major river in South Asia, giving the name both celestial and geographic associations.
72. Rohan — Rohan has several independent histories. In Sanskrit, it is associated with “ascending” or “growing,” while in Irish usage, it can be a surname; Tolkien also used Rohan as the name of a fictional realm.
73. Rajiv — A Sanskrit-derived name associated with the blue lotus. It is widely used in India and has a refined botanical connection beneath its concise sound.
74. Rahul — A traditional Indian name with Sanskrit and Buddhist associations, Rahul is the name of Siddhartha Gautama’s son in Buddhist tradition. Its deeper etymology is debated, so simplified single-word meanings should be treated cautiously.
75. Rakesh — A Sanskrit-derived Indian name formed from elements associated with the night or moon and lordship. It is traditionally interpreted as “lord of the night” or “lord of the full moon.”

Related: 100 ‘I’ Middle Names for Boys and Girls With a Fresh, Polished Feel

Strong and Distinctive ‘R’ Middle Names for Boys

76. Ranjit — From Sanskrit, Ranjit is associated with the idea of being victorious or conquering. Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the founder of the Sikh Empire, is a prominent historical bearer.
77. Rishabh — A Sanskrit name with several traditional meanings, including “bull” and “excellent” or “superior.” In Jainism, Rishabhanatha is regarded as the first Tirthankara.
78. Ritvik — A Sanskrit-derived Indian name associated with a priest or officiant who performs religious rites. Its traditional meaning gives the contemporary-sounding name substantial cultural depth.
79. Rami — Rami has several cultural origins. In Arabic, it is associated with an archer or one who throws, while in Hebrew, it is used as a form of names such as Ram, giving the name more than one established tradition.
80. Ramiro — A Spanish and Portuguese form of a Germanic name associated with “famous” and “great” or “renowned.” It has a strong medieval Iberian history.
81. Renato — The Italian and Portuguese form of Renatus, Renato means “born again” or “reborn.” It offers the familiar meaning of Renata in a distinctly masculine form.
82. Ricardo — The Spanish and Portuguese form of Richard, Ricardo comes from Germanic elements associated with a powerful or brave ruler. Its three-syllable rhythm works especially well with compact first names.
83. Rodrigo — The Spanish and Portuguese form of Roderick, Rodrigo comes from Germanic elements meaning “fame” and “power” or “ruler.” It was borne by Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar, the medieval Spanish hero known as El Cid.
84. Rigoberto — A Spanish form of the Germanic name Ricobert, Rigoberto combines elements associated with “power” or “rule” and “bright” or “famous.” Its longer form can lend grandeur to a short first name.
85. Regis — From the Latin rex, “king,” Regis is associated with the phrase “of the king.” It has a formal, streamlined quality that works surprisingly well as a middle name.
86. Reginald — A Germanic name built from elements meaning “counsel” and “power” or “ruler,” Reginald has a distinctly vintage character. Its formal sound makes it a natural counterpoint to a modern first name.
87. Redmond — An anglicized Irish surname derived from Réamonn, itself related to Raymond. It ultimately carries the “wise protector” heritage of that Germanic name while sounding distinctly Irish.
88. Remy — Remy is the French form of Rémi, traditionally associated with the Latin name Remigius. The name is sometimes connected with the Latin remex, “oarsman,” though the deeper etymology is uncertain.
89. Rex — From the Latin rex, Rex simply means “king.” Its one-syllable shape makes a bold statement in the middle position while remaining historically grounded.
90. Rufus — A Roman name meaning “red-haired” or “red,” Rufus was used as a Roman cognomen and also appears in the New Testament. Its antique quality has helped give it renewed vintage appeal.
91. Rupert — The German form of Robert, Rupert ultimately comes from the Germanic elements meaning “fame” and “bright.” Saint Rupert, an early bishop of Salzburg, is one notable historical bearer.
92. Roscoe — An English surname derived from a place name, Roscoe is generally associated with Old Norse elements referring to a heath, moor or forest. It has a warm, vintage surname style.
93. Rutherford — An English and Scottish surname derived from a place name associated with a cattle crossing or ford. Its most famous historical association is with physicist Ernest Rutherford, giving it a scholarly vintage character.
94. Rainier — A French form of Rainer, Rainier ultimately comes from Germanic elements meaning “advice” and “army.” It also has a strong geographic association with Mount Rainier in Washington.
95. Rafferty — An Irish surname derived from Ó Raifeartaigh, the family name of an old Gaelic clan. Its underlying personal name is associated with abundance or prosperity, though the exact etymology is not completely certain.
96. Ragnar — A Scandinavian form of an Old Norse name composed of elements traditionally interpreted as “counsel” and “army.” Its Viking-era history gives it a particularly strong Nordic character.
97. Roderick — From Germanic elements meaning “fame” and “power” or “ruler,” Roderick was borne by the last Visigothic king of Hispania. Its historical pedigree gives it an unmistakably substantial sound.
98. Roosevelt — An American surname derived from the Dutch Roosevelt, meaning “rose field.” Its best-known historical associations are with Presidents Theodore Roosevelt and Franklin D. Roosevelt.
99. Ryland — An English surname-name meaning “rye” and “land,” Ryland has a modern sound while retaining traditional surname roots. Its smooth two-syllable rhythm makes it an easy bridge between many first and last names.
100. Rafiq — From Arabic, Rafiq means “friend” or “kind companion.” Its warm meaning gives this concise name a softer counterpoint to stronger-sounding first names.

Related: 100 ‘L’ Middle Names That Add a Soft, Stylish Finish to a Baby’s Name

This article was drafted with the assistance of AI and thoroughly reviewed, edited and fact-checked by Parade editors. See our complete AI Policy.

What started as a $5 plush toy became one of the biggest collectible crazes of the 1990s. Created by toy maker H. Ty Warner, Beanie Babies eventually became a massive hit among collectors.

After years in the toy business, Warner struck gold with Beanie Babies, a line of small, bean-filled plush animals that became a hit with collectors.

In 1994, Ty Company introduced the “Original Nine,” also known as the first Beanie Babies collection, featuring Cubby, Pinchers, Patty, Chocolate, Flash, Splash, Legs, Spot and Squealer.

The $5 toy initially made little impact on the market and didn’t take off until a surge in popularity in mid-1996.

According to TyCollector.com, Beanie Babies’ fame was driven primarily by several factors, including their affordability.

Another reason for their massive popularity was their small size and lightweight design, which made the toys easy to carry, display and collect for kids and the young at heart.

Ty Warner, creator of Beanie Babies toys, shakes hands in a rare appearance to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Beanie Babies toy line at the American International Toy Fair February 16, 2003.

Chris Hondros/Getty Images)

A standout detail that set Beanie Babies apart from other plushies was the iconic heart-shaped paper hang tag attached to each toy’s ear. The tag included the animal’s name, its birth date, a short poem about the character and the company name, Ty Inc.

In just a few years, the plush toys went from $5 playthings to highly sought-after collectibles, following the company’s introduction of the concept of toy “retirement.”

In 1995, Humphrey the camel became the first Beanie Baby to be officially retired by Ty Inc.

This marketing move created a sense of urgency among collectors, who believed that “retirements” would make Beanie Babies hard to find in the future due to their limited supply.

In 1997, the company released a rare Princess Diana purple bear as a tribute to the late Princess of Wales.

The special-edition plush toy sparked a collecting frenzy, drawing lines and prompting record-setting bids on the secondary market.

Today, the special-edition Beanie Baby’s value can range from around $2 to as much as $1 million, depending on its condition, according to People.

While most Beanie Babies were inexpensive, certain retired characters reportedly fetched as much as $13,000 on the resale market during the height of the craze.

Unfortunately, Beanie Babies’ rising value also contributed to reports of theft, with some toys reportedly being snatched from their owners’ homes and even from car dashboards.

Moreover, History.com reported that in March 1999, a burglar known as the Beanie Baby bandit stole 200 Beanie Babies from a stationery shop in Centerport, New York.

In addition, the company faced a growing counterfeit problem as demand for the toys surged.

Unfortunately, Ty Inc.’s Beanie Babies craze began to lose momentum around 1999 as the resale market collapsed and prices reportedly plummeted by 98 percent.

Despite announcing the retirement of several Beanie Babies, the company struggled to sustain the public’s interest, and the announcements no longer generated the same excitement or increases in resale value.

In 2000, Ty Inc. faced market saturation as the supply of Beanie Babies grew beyond demand.

Despite attempts to revive interest in the once-coveted collectibles with “Beanie Babies 2.0” in 2008, the relaunch failed to recapture the original craze and was widely considered a commercial failure and discontinued the line in May 2009.

Related: In 1905, 11-year-old Frank Epperson left a drink mix and a stirring stick on his Oakland porch overnight; the Epsicle he patented in 1924 now sells more than 2 billion a year as the Popsicle

Sharon Osbourne, the wife of English singer-songwriter Ozzy Osbourne, has been struggling to sell their iconic Los Angeles home for years now. It was relisted recently, popping up on real estate agent Jonah Wilson’s website for $16 million.

Located in the Hancock Park neighborhood of LA, the seven-bedroom, 11-bath home was built in 1929 and designed by architect A.K. Kellogg. “Careful restorations have maintained the historical architecture” and the property has an extraordinary kitchen, breakfast room and an outdoor dining area with a barbecue and pizza oven. The backyard of the home includes a swimming pool and lush gardens. An elevator accesses all levels of the home, and above the garage, there is a guest apartment. The home spans 10,200 square feet.

“It’s one of the more prestigious areas around Downtown LA,” said realtor and Hancock Park resident Pete Buonocore to Louder six months ago. “Many of the houses are in a Historic Preservation Overlay Zone where homeowners are required to preserve the unique character of their homes, so when you’re driving down the street, it’s as if you’re in the 1920s.”

The couple bought the home in 2015 for $11.85 million and lived there for a decade. They put the home up for sale in 2022 when they considered moving back to the UK, though the sale was eventually pulled. It was put back on the market in April 2026.

Located less than two miles from Hollywood, Hancock Park is a historic, affluent Los Angeles neighborhood known for its grand 1920s mansions, strict architectural guidelines, mature tree-lined streets, and status as a protected Historic Preservation Overlay Zone.

Eloi_Omella / Getty Images

Ozzy Osbourne passed away from a heart attack on June 22, 2025 when he was 76 years old. Known as the “Godfather of Heavy Metal” and the “Prince of Darkness,” Ozzy left a legacy as a foundational pioneer of heavy metal music, a multi-platinum solo artist, a trailblazing reality TV star, and an enduring symbol of working-class defiance.

He formed Black Sabbath in Birmingham, England in 1968, helping invent the sound of heavy metal that is known today. As a solo artist, he released iconic albums like Blizzard of Ozz and Diary of a Madman. His music inspired multiple decades of rock, punk, and metal bands (including Metallica and Iron Maiden), and he created Ozzfest to champion smaller acts.

“I really, genuinely do have a love affair with my audience,” he said in an unreleased podcast interview from 1997. “It’s better than any drug.”

Portrait of British musician Ozzy Osbourne as he poses before a concert at the Rosemont Horizon on March 4, 1984. 

Paul Natkin / Getty Images

Ozzy and Sharon first met in 1970. At the time, Sharon was just 18 years old and working at the office of her father, Don Arden, who was managing Black Sabbath. Sharon initially found Ozzy and his bandmates looking “odd and hairy” compared to the neat American artists she usually saw, but her opinion changed after she watched the band perform a show in London, which left her “completely amazed.”

Years later, after Ozzy was kicked out of Black Sabbath in 1979, Sharon stepped in as his manager and the two grew close, starting a romantic relationship before marrying in July 1982. The couple share three children together: Aimée, Kelly and Jack.

The relationship was filled with many issues, including Ozzy’s substance abuse and extramarital affairs, but Sharon forgave him and they were married up until his death last summer. Two weeks before he passed, he performed his final concert from a throne at the Black Sabbath farewell concert. By that time, the singer wasn’t able to walk due to his Parkinson’s disease, which he revealed to his fans in January 2020.

Since Ozzy’s death, Sharon has been living in their family estate in England. Currently, she co-hosts The Osbournes podcast and is working on legacy projects honoring her late husband.

Related: Jimmy Fallon’s Music Picks Pay Tribute to Late Legends Ozzy Osbourne and Chuck Mangione

Related: Jelly Roll listed his Franklin, Tennessee estate for $7 million; the 10-acre property, bought in 2023, went on the market months after his divorce from Bunnie Xo was finalized

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If you’re hosting for the holidays, Macy’s has the cutest little serving piece on sale that you’ll want to bring out every Christmas. The Lenox Holiday Snowman Tray and Spreader Set is 61% off for just $36, down from $92. The porcelain tray features a smiling snowman in a red scarf and comes with a candy cane-shaped spreader for serving your favorite holiday appetizers.

Its rounded body includes Lenox’s signature green holly leaves and red berries, while the coordinating spreader has a red-and-white candy cane handle and a stainless steel blade. The tray measures 13 inches long, 7.5 inches wide, and 1.5 inches high, and the spreader is 4.5 inches long. Both pieces are dishwasher-safe, but not microwave-safe.

Lenox Holiday Snowman Tray and Spreader Set, $36 (was $92) at Macy’s

Courtesy of Macy's

Shop at Macy's

There are plenty of ways to use this tray, but the most classic is to fill it with crackers and cheese, then use the candy cane spreader to serve. The raised edges help keep everything contained, too, and the cheerful design is pretty enough to leave out even after the food is gone. It’s also a fun way to add some Christmas color to your table without replacing any dinnerware.

One reviewer praised its “beautiful quality,” adding that it’s “very pretty,” while another wrote, “It is so cute and the perfect size for either brie or cheese ball with crackers and a little fruit.” Someone else described it as a “great gift,” which makes it even more of the perfect excuse to scoop it up now before the price goes back up. 

Related: Walmart’s 12-Piece Lenox Porcelain Christmas Dessert Set Is a Must-Have for Holiday Hosts and Bakers

This very cute tray would be a hit if you’re heading to someone else’s home for the holidays. Unlike edible gifts that disappear by Christmas morning, the recipient can bring this out again next December. And since both pieces are dishwasher-safe, cleanup is one less thing to worry about after everyone heads home.

Shop More Lenox Holiday Deals

• Lenox 4-Piece Holiday Accent Plate Set, $86 (was $215) at Macy’s
• Lenox Mistletoe Park Macy’s Department Store Figurine, $86 (was $216) at Macy’s
• Lenox Happy Holly Days Snowman Night Light, $23 (was $58) at Macy’s

Lenox holiday pieces can be pricey, so finding one at such a steep discount is definitely a steal. If you’ve had your eye on the brand’s Christmas collection, snagging the Lenox Holiday Snowman Tray and Spreader Set is a great chance to get a piece for under $40. 

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Modern Family star Jesse Tyler Ferguson is revealing why he initially wanted to keep his relationship with his now-husband, Justin Mikita, casual.

While recording the October 20 episode of his podcast, Dinner’s On Me, alongside his guest, actress Justine Lupe, Ferguson shared that he wasn’t interested in a serious relationship when he first started dating Mikita. He explained that while he was “wired to like be in a relationship,” he had dated someone who wanted to “keep it free and loose.”

“I was like, ‘Okay.’ And it didn’t feel like there was any pressure around it. And it was really nice,” said Ferguson.

He said that he “wanted to continue that narrative” when he started seeing Mikita. He also noted that Mikita is 10 years his junior and was in his early 20s when they met.

“For me, I was like, he should be dating more. I met him when he was like 23, 24 years old. And like so, I thought he needs more experience to be with people,” said the actor on his podcast.

He said, however, that Mikita “was just not having it” and told him he had “maybe another month or so” to keep the relationship casual before he had “to figure out” whether he could be serious.

“I think like two days later, I was like, ‘Okay, we’re together.’ He pushed me into that totally, totally, that place of deciding,” said Ferguson, who has two children with Mikita, Beckett Mercer Ferguson-Mikita, 6, and Sullivan “Sully” Louis Ferguson-Mikita, 3.

Justin Mikita Shared How He & Jesse Tyler Ferguson Met

Mikita shared that he and Ferguson met at a gym in West Hollywood during a July 2026 episode of the Plus One With Lisa and Morgan podcast. He explained that he was going through law school and became “really engaged with politics” in 2008. The lawyer said he was particularly “fired up” about California Proposition 8, which banned same-sex marriage.

At the same time, Modern Family came on the air, which depicted Ferguson’s character, Mitchell Pritchett’s loving relationship with Cameron Tucker, played by Eric Stonestreet.

“I watched the pilot, and I was so moved by it. And it so encapsulated how I was feeling about equality ’cause I was just like, ‘Wow, the fact that we have a Black president, Prop 8 has just passed in this state,'” said Mikita. “And then on top of it, there’s this incredible same-sex family being represented on TV in a way that I have never seen in my life.”

He then said he happened to run into Ferguson at the gym, where he shared how much Modern Family meant to him. After “about a year” of interactions at the gym, Ferguson “asked [him] out.”

The 300th episode of Chicago Fire is just around the corner, airing on Nov. 4, and it will be an emotional one because it will be the farewell to first responder Joe Cruz (Joe Miñoso), who has been a part of Firehouse 51 since the beginning back in 2012.

In the milestone 300th episode of the series, Cruz will continue to make strides in rehabbing the spinal injury that caused him to be paralyzed, which happened in the Season 14 finale, but it’s clear – at least for now – that there’s no way he can return to active duty, so he shows up at 51 to say his goodbyes.

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“I think it’s important to honor the real risks that these folks take every day for all of us,” showrunner Victor Teran told Parade of his decision to injure Cruz, leading to the original cast member being written out of the series. “I think that’s why we went so hard into the severity of the injury, short of death. This is going to be not as bad as it gets, but it’s pretty darn bad. And this is just the kind of thing that happens. We need to tell stories like this because it’s real. And if we don’t ever do it, I think we can lose credibility.”

Also in the 300th episode, simply titled, “Three Hundred,” Firehouse 51 responds to a complex hostage situation, and Chief Tomlin (Doug Savant) gives Severide (Taylor Kinney) an impossible task.

Here are a few first-look photos from the episode:

Taylor Kinney, Joe Miñoso

Credit: Peter Gordon/NBC

Taylor Kinney as Kelly Severide

Credit: Peter Gordon/NBC

The news that Miñoso would be exiting the series was first revealed back in July.

Chicago Fire airs Wednesday nights at 9 p.m. ET/PT on NBC. Streams next day on Peacock.

Next, Who Survived the Chicago Fire Finale Cliffhanger? Showrunner Breaks Down That Tragic Premiere Injury (Exclusive)

The royal family marked the anniversary of a major tragedy in UK history on Wednesday, which the late Queen Elizabeth reportedly regretted her handling of at the time.

Visiting the mining village of Aberfan, Wales — where 116 children and 28 adults were killed after a hillside of coal waste slid down onto a primary school and nearby homes on Oct. 21, 1966 — King Charles, Queen Camilla, and Prince William paid tribute to the site of the horrifying incident by meeting with survivors as well as the parents of victims.

However, in the immediate aftermath of what is now known as the Aberfan disaster, the queen was reportedly advised not to visit with the thinking that she and her entourage would cause too much of a commotion for a town in mourning amid its ongoing rescue efforts. She instead sent her husband, Prince Philip, and Princess Margaret‘s husband, Lord Snowdon, to represent her, according to the BBC.

The late monarch was criticized for what seemed like a lack of urgency to visit with the grieving families and made her way to Aberfan eight days later. She later reportedly referred to the delay in her visit as “the biggest regret of her reign.”

The Queen visiting Aberfan days after tragedy struck.

Evening Standard / Getty Images

The queen, who was 40 years old at the time and had two young children, in addition to the then-Prince Charles and Princess Anne, was said to be visibly emotional when visiting with grief-stricken parents. (The former Prince Andrew and Prince Edward were of similar age to the children that had been killed.)

“To me that day, she didn’t come as the Queen, our monarch, she came as a mother, to sympathize, to empathize, to really appreciate what everybody had been through that day,” a mourner recounted to the BBC in 2022.

The late monarch returned to the village in 1997 and planted a commemorative tree in its Garden of Remembrance and met with survivors. Her final visit to the site was in 2012.

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On Wednesday, the king made a speech during his visit with his wife and son to honor the victims.

“Over the years, as once again today, it has been profoundly humbling to hear the testimonies of survivors of relatives who lost their loved ones, and of rescuers who fought so hard to save others during this appalling tragedy,” he said, according to the BBC. “Today in our nation and across the world, thoughts will turn to you in Aberfan, hearts far from this valley will ache with yours.”

William also laid a commemorative wreath down at the site of where the school once stood.

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One thing my wardrobe will never have enough of? Hoodies. As someone who runs cold no matter what the temperature is outside, I need all the warm layers my closet can hold. This fall and winter, I’m leaning heavily into super soft sweatshirts I can wear solo or over another top and still look put together while staying cozy. 

I was today years old when I learned that Millie Bobby Brown has a clothing line at Walmart filled with super cute pieces at affordable prices, including one adorable $22 cropped sweatshirt that immediately caught this hoodie-loving shopping expert’s eye. 

Mills by Millie Bobby Brown Cropped Hoodie, $22 at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

If you’re also new to the Mills by Millie Bobby Brown collection, this piece looks like the perfect starting point. The actress’ personal style shines through the slightly oversized, cropped fit, polished collar, and snuggle-worthy fabric of this $22 hoodie. Available in two colors, porcelain white and vintage olive, it comes in a host of 11 inclusive sizes ranging from XXS to 4X. 

Made from a soft blend of 60% cotton and 40% polyester, this hooded sweatshirt delivers plenty of warmth for chilly days while remaining light enough to wear when the sun is out. From the roomy hood to the unfinished hem, it also offers laid-back style in spades. Blending casual comfort with a stylishly modern silhouette, the cropped length is universally flattering and easy to layer. 

Adding to its versatility, this hoodie is also easy to care for. It can be machine washed and dried, and shoppers reported that it doesn’t shrink, fade, or pill.

Mills by Millie Bobby Brown Cropped Hoodie, $22 at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Walmart shoppers said this hoodie’s “buttery soft” fabric is “breathable” and “lightweight,” which makes it “great for layering.” One customer said this sweatshirt is made from “the kind of material you could wear in all seasons” and it’s a “perfect hoodie for transitional weather.”

Reviewers also noted that this cropped hoodie’s length is “not too short” and the “slightly oversized” fit is true to size. As for the look, another person said, “You can literally style it with everything, from gym leggings to barrel jeans.”

Shop More Cozy Millie Bobby Brown Clothing

• Mills by Millie Bobby Brown Women’s Mineral Wash Wide Leg Sweatpants, $20 at Walmart
• Mills by Millie Bobby Brown Zip Hoodie, $26 at Walmart
• Mills by Millie Bobby Brown Fuzzy Sweatpants, $21 at Walmart

Related: Walmart’s Cozy Matching Lounge Set Includes a ‘Cute’ Oversized Hoodie and Wide-Leg Sweatpants for Just $24

For such a luxe-looking, versatile piece, the Mills by Millie Bobby Brown Cropped Hoodie is surprisingly affordable at just $22. Snag one for yourself while it’s still available at Walmart!

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Gypsy-Rose Blanchard has come forward.

Blanchard made national headlines when she was arrested for the murder of her mother, Clauddine “Dee Dee” Blanchard. But after her death, allegations surfaced that Dee Dee abused Gypsy-Rose and misrepresented her health.

Gypsy-Rose was released on parole on December 28, 2023, after serving eight and a half years of her 10-year sentence. Since her release, the 35-year-old has been featured on a variety of TV shows and has her own reality show called Gypsy Rose: Life After Lock Up that premiered on Lifetime in 2024. That same year, she released her memoir, My Time to Stand, in December 2024 and it instantly became a No. 1 best seller. In the book, she shares the painful details of her upbringing, and how she coped with guilt and accepted responsibility for her mother’s death.

“My mother used love as reward and punishment, withdrawing it on demand,” Gypsy-Rose wrote. “She knew the things I was afraid of, like being alone in the dark, and so to punish me, she’d leave me alone in the dark.”

Gypsy Rose Blanchard attends “An Evening with Lifetime: Conversations On Controversies” FYC event at The Grove on May 01, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. 

Phillip Faraone / Getty Images

Gypsy-Rose’s childhood and the murder of her mother

When Gypsy-Rose was just three months old, Dee Dee thought she had sleep apnea. By the time her daughter was eight, Dee Dee told Rod, the father, that Gypsy-Rose had leukemia, muscular dystrophy and was paralyzed, but none of those conditions were true. She also used a feeding tube and a wheelchair, and Dee Dee regularly shaved her daughter’s head, allegedly telling her that since her medication would eventually cause her hair to fall out, it was best to shave it in advance. Rod recalled that Dee Dee told him their daughter had a “chromosomal defect” that explained many of her health issues.

Gypsy-Rose attempted multiple times in the 2010s to escape Dee Dee and her control. At the time of her murder, the mother and daughter were living in a rented house in Missouri, and Gypsy-Rose was dating Nicholas Godejohn, whom she met online and kept a secret, knowing Dee Dee would not approve.

In 2015, Gypsy-Rose arranged and paid for Godejohn to travel to Springfield with money stolen from her mother. She planned to pretend to meet him for the first time at a movie theater with her mother, then appear to strike up a relationship based on the supposed chance encounter. Godejohn, who was 26 at the time, claimed that Gypsy-Rose made it clear to him as long as Dee Dee was alive, they couldn’t be together and getting rid of her was the only option.

Gypsy Rose Blanchard speaks onstage during “An Evening with Lifetime: Conversations On Controversies” FYC event at The Grove on May 01, 2024 in Los Angeles, California.

Phillip Faraone / Getty Images

After Dee Dee went to sleep, Godejohn snuck into their house and stabbed her 17 times in the back. Gypsy-Rose alleges that she hid in the bathroom and covered her ears so she wouldn’t have to hear her mother scream. After they confirmed she was dead, the couple called a taxi and fled to a motel outside of Springfield.

Though keeping up with the act that she was innocent, Gypsy-Rose eventually pleaded to second-degree murder and sentenced to 10 years in prison. Meanwhile, Godejohn was found guilty of first-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison without parole, an additional 25 years for armed criminal action.

Gypsy-Rose’s life after release

Her story garnered a lot of media attention, especially after Hulu released The Act, where Gypsy-Rose was portrayed by Joey King, Calum Worthy was Godejohn and Patricia Arquette played Dee Dee. The latter won an Emmy Award for her performance, while King was nominated for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited Series or Movie in 2019.

Following Gypsy-Rose’s release, she gave several television interviews, including appearances on Good Morning America, CNN and The View. She has also been featured in documentaries.

Gypsy-Rose also started dating other people, and even got married and had a daughter. She married Ryan Scott Anderson in July 2022 while she was still serving her sentence at Chillicothe Correctional Center in Missouri. They later separated in March 2024 and finalized their divorce later that year.

Afterward, Gypsy-Rose was in a relationship with Ken Urker and had a daughter with him in December 2024, the same time My Time to Stand was released. Nine months after their daughter was born, Gypsy-Rose confided in a friend that she found out that Urker allegedly reached out to a former girlfriend, then stabbed their headboard and carved out “Sleep with your one and only -G.”

According to Blanchard, Urker subsequently threatened to seek sole custody of their daughter, reportedly texting her “You are a danger to yourself and others around you,” and they broke up before Urker died earlier this month on his 34th birthday. Reports say that Urker was found dead at his home next to drugs and a handgun.

Gypsy-Rose now lives in New Orleans and is busy raising her daughter, Aurora. She still continues to make public appearances in the media and reality TV, and is active on social media.

My Time to Stand: A Memoir by Gypsy-Rose Blanchard is out now on Amazon.

Related: Elizabeth Holmes went from Silicon Valley billionaire to convicted fraudster; a new documentary about her story comes out in theaters this weekend

Related: ‘American Idol’ Runner-Up Announces Career Move

Investors in Wichita Falls, Texas, expected a 480-foot skyscraper in 1919. Instead, the building went up at “480 inches instead of 480 feet,” about 40 feet tall, according to Mental Floss.

Oil was found north of Wichita Falls in 1912, and within five years the city had become the main commercial center of the North Texas oil patch, writer Mike Cox said in a column for Texas Escapes.

J.D. McMahon, an oil man and promoter, announced a tall building next to the one-story Newby Building, where he was a tenant, Texas Escapes said. He collected about $200,000 from investors, per Mental Floss, and circulated blueprints for the tower.

The scale on the blueprints was, however, in inches, not feet. The result was a four-story building about 10 by 16⅔ feet, the Houston Chronicle reported. McMahon also did not have permission from the Oklahoma owner of the lot to build on it.

The investors sued, but they lost. The judge noted that they had seen the blueprints and that the building matched what they had approved, the Chronicle said. By then, McMahon had left town. Cox wrote that by 1922 he was a vice president of a power company in New York.

Cartoonist Robert Ripley, of Ripley’s Believe It or Not! fame featured the tower in 1920 and called it “The World’s Littlest Skyscraper,” Mental Floss said.

Today, the Newby-McMahon Building stands at 701 LaSalle St. in downtown Wichita Falls, and visitors can climb to the top, per the city’s tourism site. Jan and Mike Saville, who had rented the building for six years, bought it in 2021 and use it for their consignment shop, Hello Again, according to NewsChannel 6. They offer free tours.

McMahon was not the only man to cash in on a fake. In 1869, George Hull sold most of the Cardiff Giant for $23,000. P.T. Barnum offered $50,000 for it, but was refused by its new owners so he made a copy instead.

ESPN’s “Monday Night Football” partners Joe Buck and Troy Aikman face an uncertain future as tension grows.

The duo got into an argument ahead of the Oct. 12 football game between the Buffalo Bills and Los Angeles Rams. The reported dispute was linked to Buck’s recent contract extension with ESPN, per Front Office Sports. Aikman has not received an extension, with his contract ending after the Super Bowl on Feb. 14, 2027, which will be ESPN’s first Super Bowl in 20 years.

Aikman announced he would be a “free agent at the end of the year” and that he’s “looking forward to whatever the rest of this year does hold,” in an interview with a local Dallas radio station, per Deadline.

Buck and Aikman did not address their disagreement during the “Monday Night Football” game on Oct. 19. The NFL does not seem to be worried about the conflict.

“No concern,” said Hans Schroeder, the NFL’s chief media officer, told Front Office Sports on Wednesday, Oct. 21. “I don’t know if you watched the game on Monday night. It was an incredible game, right? It was an incredible game and incredible coverage by Joe and Troy, just like they always do. And, by the way, also, there’s so many other ways that Disney covered that game. It was the first real [Pat] McAfee launch, too, adding to that experience. So, look, that’s something… that we’re really not involved with.”

Jennifer Hudson says for the first time she’s found a man she would consider marrying.

The EGOT winner revealed on the Tuesday, October 20, episode of Keke Palmer‘s podcast, “Baby, This Is Keke Palmer,” that she is open to walking down the aisle with her current boyfriend, rapper/actor Common.

“People automatically always assume women just want to be married, and that is not always the case,” Hudson said. “The only thing I will say about it is this is the only person where I’m like, ‘You know what? Actually, I would consider that with him.’ But have I been that type of person to want to be in that space? No.”

Hudson began dating Common in 2002 while working together on the film, Breathe. They confirmed their relationship when he appeared on her talk show in January 2024. “If I should be married,” he said, “it will be to Jennifer Kate Hudson.”

Palmer told Hudson she wants to attend their wedding, calling the couple’s relationship “a blessing.” She added, “Knowing his personality and knowing your personality, it’s just perfect.”

The couple both hail from Chicago and have been honored for acting and music. Common has won an Oscar, two Grammys, and an Emmy, and needs a Tony Award to join Hudson in the prestigious EGOT circle.

The talk show host was previously engaged to wrestler David Otunga, and they have a son. The couple broke up in November 2019. 

Before meeting Hudson, Common was in several high-profile relationships.

He dated Erykah Badu from 2000-2002, and they won the Grammy Award for Best R&B Song at the 45th Annual Grammy Awards in 2003 for their hit collaboration “Love of My Life (An Ode to Hip-Hop).”

In 2005, he was involved with Taraji P. Henson, and after they broke up, he dated Serena Williams from 2007 to 2010. He was also in a relationship with Tiffany Haddish from 2020 to 2022.

The holidays are all about getting cozy, and Lola Blankets is giving fans a new reason to curl up on the couch this season. The viral, celebrity-loved blanket brand is launching a festive new collection just in time for the holidays, with eight new colors and prints that put a seasonal spin on its signature ultra-soft faux fur blankets.

Lola Blankets has attracted a following among celebrities, including Tate McRae, Simone Biles, Alix Earle, and Selena Gomez, who was spotted writing her vows while sitting on one earlier this year. Oprah Winfrey also featured the brand on her 2025 Favorite Things list, making its famously soft throws a tempting option for holiday gifting.

Called Lola for the Holidays, the new collection draws inspiration from cozy winter escapes, rich seasonal hues, and classic holiday patterns, offering everything from bold reds and deep greens to sophisticated neutrals.

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Among the new solid colors are Reykjavik Red, a saturated holiday red; Firewood, a smoky espresso brown; Nordic Pine, a deep spruce green; and Blue Lagoon, a calming blue-gray. For shoppers who prefer a pattern, the collection also includes Holiday Hide, an ombré animal-inspired print in winter neutrals, along with Green Check, Chocolate Check, and Red Check.

With its mix of festive colors and versatile patterns, the new lineup offers a fresh way to bring a little holiday spirit into the home.

“The holidays are all about making the people you love feel special, and that’s exactly what we wanted to capture with this collection,” founder Tommy Higham tells Parade. “We’ve taken the softness Lola is known for and introduced festive colors and timeless prints that feel perfect for the season. Our hope is that a Lola blanket becomes the gift everyone looks forward to unwrapping, and one they’ll continue reaching for long after the holidays are over.”

The Lola for the Holidays collection will be available beginning October 23 at 11 a.m. ET.

Michael Jordan’s asking price for his Highland Park, Illinois, mansion was $14.855 million, according to ABC7 Chicago. The digits add up to 23, his jersey number. Coincidentally, the estate’s front gate also has a life-sized “23.”

Jordan first listed the home in spring 2012 for $29 million, Newsweek reported. The price dropped to $14.855 million in 2015, and he held it there for about nine years, per ABC7 Chicago. It finally sold for $9.5 million on Dec. 10, 2024, about 36% below that last ask, according to The Real Deal.

The home is roughly 32,000 square feet on about seven acres, Newsweek said. It has a regulation-sized basketball court, a putting green, a circular infinity pool and a cigar room. Jordan bought the land in 1991 and raised his family there.

Chicago Tribune columnist Bob Goldsborough told ABC7 Chicago that the land is “sort of land-locked behind some other houses, railroad tracks and a nature preserve.” He also said the home has a dated, 1990s-style look.

The buyer was John Cooper, a 42-year-old real estate executive from Lincolnshire, ABC7 Chicago reported. A month later, he began selling shares in the home, with opening bids of $1 million, and by summer 2025 he had listed it on Airbnb for $150,000 a month.

In December 2025, Cooper proposed rezoning the property, known as Champions Point, to turn it into a tourist destination focused on sports, architecture, and philanthropy, per NBC Chicago. The plan would have moved the famous “23” gate inside the property.

Highland Park’s city council turned down the plan in March 2026. Neighbors were mostly against it because of traffic and noise concerns, ABC7 Chicago said. “I just can’t get past that it’s in the middle of a residential area,” Councilmember Andrés Tapia said, according to The Record North Shore.

Jordan’s mansion is not the only sports-linked property to sell for far less than its cost. Pontiac, Michigan, built the Silverdome for $55.7 million in 1975, and the stadium sold at auction for $583,000 in 2009.

Pope Leo XIV has received encouraging news about his health following surgery for lung cancer.

The Vatican announced Wednesday, Oct. 21, that the 71-year-old pontiff will not need additional treatment after doctors confirmed his cancer was localized and had not spread, according to the Associated Press.

Leo underwent surgery Oct. 13 to remove the lower lobe of his right lung after being diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma, the most common type of lung cancer.

“A subsequent oncology assessment confirmed that no further treatment is necessary,” his doctors said in a statement released by the Vatican.

Pope Leo Makes First General Audience Appearance Since Surgery

The announcement came shortly after Leo returned to St. Peter’s Square for his first general audience since leaving the hospital Saturday, Oct. 17.

In video footage from Wednesday’s appearance, the pope can be seen smiling and waving to crowds from his popemobile.

He also thanked supporters for their prayers during his recovery.

“Thank you for the support of your prayers,” Leo said, according to a transcript of his general audience.

RELATED NEWS: Pope Leo XIV Leaves Hospital After Lung Cancer Surgery

What Does Pope Leo’s Health Update Mean?

The latest findings are encouraging news for the pontiff, as doctors confirmed his cancer had not spread and no further treatment is needed.

The diagnosis had previously raised questions about the future of Leo’s papacy, according to Reuters, particularly since he was elected just over a year ago.

Leo became the first American pope in May 2025 and, at 69, was the youngest pontiff elected in decades.

While the latest update is positive, continued monitoring is typically part of recovery after lung cancer treatment. According to the American Cancer Society, patients generally undergo regular follow-up appointments and imaging tests to watch for signs of the cancer returning.

What’s Next for Pope Leo?

Pope Leo XIV appears to be gradually returning to his regular duties, with the Vatican’s official calendar listing several upcoming appearances, including a Sunday Angelus on Oct. 25 and a general audience on Nov. 4.

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If you’re looking for an easy way to make your holiday table feel extra special, Martha Stewart’s Manor Rimmed Dessert Plate Set is a festive find that’s worth checking out. The elegant Christmas-themed plates are on sale for over 50% off at JCPenney right now. Featuring classic holiday motifs and cheery shades of red, gold, and green, the set adds festive charm to family dinners and seasonal celebrations. 

Originally priced at $30, the four-piece set is now available for just $13 with code GHOSTS, coming out to about $2.15 per dish. Each 8-inch plate features a charming mix of Christmas symbols and ornaments that capture the magic of the season. The plates also feature refined green inner rims and red outer edges, adding a vibrant finishing touch that pairs beautifully with red, green, or metallic tablecloths. 

Martha Stewart’s Manor Rimmed Dessert Plate Set, $13 (was $30) at JCPenney 

Courtesy of JCPenney

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Related: Walmart’s ‘Incredibly Lush’ $24 Christmas Greenery Is Perfect for Holiday Wreaths and Centerpieces

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The Offspring has been heavily tied to their live shows for decades. Wednesday’s news is not great news for fans who have been regularly following the seminal 90s band. Guitarist Kevin “Noodles” Wasserman told them on October 21 that he is stepping away from live performances for a while.

His statement, posted on Instagram and the band’s other social accounts, points to a “sudden and fairly serious health issue.” Wasserman did not disclose the nature of the condition or say how long he expects to be away from the stage, and a band spokesperson had not responded to Billboard’s request for details at press time.

The message is warm throughout. He wrote that the rest of the band “has my back” and will keep playing in his absence, and that he hopes to return to the stage soon. His note ends by thanking fans for keeping him in their thoughts and telling them he will miss all of them “with all of my heart.”

The guitarist has been part of the band’s story from the start. Its 1994 breakthrough, Smash, remains the best-selling independent-label album of all time, and its first single, “Come Out And Play,” hit No. 1 on the Modern Rock chart that year. Two more Top 10 hits followed in “Self-Esteem” and “Gotta Get Away.” Noodles has described going from a decade of underground clubs and cross-country van trips to touring the world full time, and has said he worked as a janitor until Smash arrived.

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His most recent appearance with the band came on Sunday, October 18, at Mission Bayfest in San Diego. The announcement followed three days later, on Wednesday, October 21. On Facebook, the band’s post had collected more than 38,000 reactions and 2,000 comments about four hours after it went up.

The calendar is still full. The band is listed for the Rock 2 Freedom benefit at the Wiltern in Los Angeles on Saturday, October 24, SEMA Fest in Las Vegas on November 6, and Corona Capital in Mexico City on November 21, with a January 16, 2027, date in Los Angeles. The remaining members intend to keep to that schedule, and no replacement had been named at press time.

Wasserman, 63, co-founded the band in Garden Grove, California, in 1984, when it went by Manic Subsidal, and he is one of two members, along with Dexter Holland, to appear on every Offspring album. Alongside Green Day and Rancid, the group is often credited with reviving mainstream interest in punk rock in the 1990s, and it has sold more than 40 million records worldwide. Its latest studio album, Supercharged, arrived in 2024, and the current lineup also includes Todd Morse, Brandon Pertzborn and Jonah Nimoy.

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Cyndi Lauper is putting four decades of her personal archive up for auction, with the live sale set for Oct. 22 in New York. “Cyndi Lauper: Suitcase of Memories” is a two-part Bonhams event with fashion, accessories, awards, furniture from her New York City apartment and other memorabilia. Part I is the live sale, and Part II runs online through Oct. 23. Altogether it covers more than 300 lots.

The most emotional find was the newspaper skirt from her “True Colors” video. Lauper told PEOPLE she cried when she came across it while going through her archive, and she and curator Laura Wills rebuilt it. It now sits on a different dress form than the original, and she couldn’t find all of the pearls. She did find the shirt she wore with it.

Other pieces trace her early style. A fuchsia shirt printed with Keith Haring’s Devil Dog and Squiggle motifs comes with a black pencil skirt from Vivienne Westwood and Malcolm McLaren’s Fall/Winter 1983-84 collection. Lauper told Galerie she bought the pair at the Westwood store around the time her debut album came out. The sale also includes the red plaid dress she wore for her first MTV Video Music Awards appearance in 1984 and the conch shells from the True Colors album cover and video.

Lauper said the show is meant to inspire people, especially young ones, to remember individuality and a time when music and fashion went together. She says some of the pieces are cool, but she won’t be wearing them. At 73, she isn’t changing her approach. “I don’t want to look conservative, and you don’t have to,” she said. She also described bohemia as where artists live and where the creatives came from. As she put it to Galerie, “I never wanted to look like someone else.”

The auction arrives as Lauper marks 40 years of True Colors with an expanded edition of the album. It includes two previously unreleased tracks, “The River Cried” and her version of “Across the Universe,” and a two-LP version arrives Dec. 4.