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As the dating rumors about iconic '80s and '90s TV heartthrobs Heather Locklear and Lorenzo Lamas swirl, fans are trying to rewind the former TV superstars' past lives to figure out where they might have met in the past. One such past connection has been confirmed as the resurfaced July 1983 cover of Playgirl magazine depicts none other than Heather Locklear and Lorenzo Lamas.

Locklear, now 64, and Lamas, now 68, were major TV stars (and sex symbols) coming up in the industry at the same time in the '80s. In fact, both actors starred in competing prime-time soap operas—Locklear in ABC's Dynasty (1981–1989) and Lamas on CBS's Falcon Crest (1981–1990). Surely, the two ran into each other now and again at one of some of those showbiz events, right?

Related: Heather Locklear Is Reportedly Dating This Well-Known ’90s Heartthrob

With a little sleuthing, one such '80s past encounter has been uncovered—a shared magazine cover. Rising stars Heather Locklear and Lorenzo Lamas posed together on the cover of the July 1983 issue of Playgirl magazine. The cover headline reads: Lorenzo Lamas & Heather Locklear In Very Bare Swimwear, and inside, the actors posed in a pretty PG-rated summertime beachwear spread.

Fans didn't have to look hard to dig up the old cover, as Lamas shared the Playgirl cover on his X account not long ago with the caption: "I cannot believe that this was 43 years ago! Side note, speedos on request only #HeatherLocklear #Playgirl #80s"

I cannot believe that this was 43 years ago! Side note, speedos on request only #HeatherLocklear #Playgirl #80s pic.twitter.com/M1mf4FK47K

— Lorenzo Lamas (@lorenzolamas) December 4, 2025

The Playgirl account shared a #ThrowbackThursday photo from the same 1983 shoot:

#ThrowbackThursday Lorenzo Lamas and Heather Locklear for #Playgirlhttps://t.co/vco8WSa1Az pic.twitter.com/YUij80Yyic

— PLAYGIRL (@playgirl) December 5, 2024

And here's one more photo of the two young actors from the 1983 Playgirl shoot:

https://www.flickr.com/photos/tommerg/6160184663/in/photostream/

Wild, isn't it? We just never know where life is going to lead us, or where life is going to lead us back to again.

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At the 44th Academy Awards on April 10, 1972, Hollywood witnessed a defining moment as Jane Fonda won the Best Actress award for her powerful role in Klute. 

The ceremony, held at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, also celebrated The French Connection as Best Picture, marking a night that would become a lasting part of film history.

Fonda’s win was more than just another award; it signaled her transformation into one of the most respected dramatic actresses of her generation. Her portrayal of Bree Daniels, a complex and emotionally layered call girl, stood out for its depth and realism.

Jane Fonda at the 92nd Oscars Awards.

CRAIG SJODIN via Getty Images

Despite being ill with a high fever during the ceremony, Fonda took the stage and delivered a brief but memorable acceptance speech, per People, saying: "Thank you... There’s a great deal to say, and I’m not going to say it tonight." 

Before her Oscar win, Fonda had already built a name in lighter roles and comedies, including films like Barbarella and Barefoot in the Park. However, Klute marked a turning point. It showed the industry, and the world, that she could handle serious, socially relevant roles with remarkable skill.

Born in New York City on Dec. 21, 1937, Fonda came from a legendary acting family. She is the daughter of acclaimed actor Henry Fonda and grew up surrounded by the film industry. After studying acting under Lee Strasberg, she transitioned from modeling and stage work into film, steadily building her career.

Her Oscar win in 1972 was just the beginning. She later earned a second Best Actress award for Coming Home in 1979 and received multiple nominations throughout her career. Over the decades, she appeared in more than 40 films and became known not only for acting but also for producing, writing, and activism.

Now at 88 years old, Fonda remains a powerful voice in entertainment and social issues. As of 2026, she continues to work on new film projects, including an upcoming adaptation of The Correspondent, where she is set to star and produce. She is also involved in environmental advocacy, documentaries and special performances tied to global causes.

Her presence at recent award shows and public events proves her influence has not faded. At the 2026 Oscars and related gatherings, she once again used her platform to speak on industry and social issues, showing the same courage that defined her career in the 1970s.

Fonda’s journey, from a rising actress to an Oscar-winning icon and activist, remains one of the most compelling stories in Hollywood.

Related: Jane Fonda Will Star in Film Adaptation of ‘The Correspondent’ After Seven-Studio Bidding War

In 1992, a Western film arrived that would challenge everything audiences thought they knew about the genre.

Unforgiven, directed by and starring Clint Eastwood, has since been ranked among the best movies of all time by Rotten Tomatoes, cementing its place as a modern classic.

"I've always been fascinated with the stealing of innocence. It's the most heinous crime, and certainly a capital crime if there ever was one. I think anything to do with crimes against children is something that's very strong in my mind," Eastwood told BBC. "I am interested in the results of violence, and the effects of it on the perpetrator as well as the victim."

The film follows William Munny, a retired outlaw who reluctantly returns to his violent past for one final job. As he teams up with an old partner and a young gunslinger, the story explores the harsh realities of violence, morality and redemption in the American West.

Unforgiven stood out for its darker, more introspective take on the Western genre, stripping away the myth of the heroic gunslinger and replacing it with a more complex, human portrayal. Eastwood's performance, along with a standout supporting cast that includes Gene Hackman and Morgan Freeman, helped elevate the film's emotional depth.

"I submitted it to Gene Hackman, and Gene I'd known for many years, but we never worked together," Eastwood told the American Film Institute. "He was in a mood at that time. He said, 'I don't want to do any more violent pictures, I'm tired of it. I've been involved with a lot of them, I'm really tired of it." And I said, 'You know, I know exactly where you're coming from. But read it again, because I think we can make a great statement against violence and killing, if we do this right. Of course, it's all in the execution. You gotta execute it right or else nothing means anything then.' So he did it. He re-read it, he came back and said, 'Yeah, OK, I'll do this.'"

The movie was both a critical and commercial success, going on to win four Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director for Eastwood. Hackman also earned an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor, further highlighting the strength of the film's performances.

Often credited with revitalizing the Western for a new generation, Unforgiven influenced countless films that followed, proving that the genre could evolve while still honoring its roots.

More than three decades later, the film remains a defining achievement in cinema, one that continues to resonate with audiences and critics alike. The movie's inclusion on Rotten Tomatoes' list proves that Unforgiven is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and the lasting impact of a film willing to challenge convention while honoring tradition.

Related: 1979 Hit Film Ranked Among ‘Best Movies of All Time’

Matt Dinniman is receiving major attention as his most popular sci-fi novel continues to earn recognition from readers across genres.

His 2020 book Dungeon Crawler Carl now sits at No. 16 on Goodreads' list of the "Most Read Books This Month in the United States." The novel had 28,004 readers on the platform in just a month and an average rating of 4.47 from more than 324,000 ratings.

Published in 2020, Dungeon Crawler Carl follows Coast Guard veteran Carl and his ex-girlfriend's cat, Princess Donut, as they try to survive a deadly, video game-like dungeon that is staged as a reality show for a galaxy-wide audience. Its mix of chaos, humor and high-stakes survival helped instantly attract readers.

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The book's rising popularity is only a piece of a much larger success story for Dinniman. The writer and artist from Gig Harbor, Washington, has written an entire Dungeon Crawler Carl series, and all seven published installments have become New York Timesbestsellers.

The Wall Street Journal described the series as "[A] comically cosmic adventure series…often laugh-out-loud funny…Grind your way toward dungeon mastery alongside Carl and Princess Donut."

Despite already achieving huge success, Dinniman is nowhere near done with the series. He plans to release 10 installments in total, and the eighth is currently on the way. With each book comes a more devoted audience that has followed Carl and Princess Donut through each level of the dungeon, adding to a series that has already proven its ability to keep readers coming back.

Dinniman has also continued his work outside of that saga, using his current momentum to put his other work on the map. His recent standalone novel Operation Bounce House was promoted by the publisher as an instant New York Times bestseller.

With its strong showing on Goodreads and steady growth in readership, Dungeon Crawler Carl is proving it has lasting appeal beyond its initial release. As the series continues to reach new audiences, its latest recognition highlights its firm place among today's most widely read titles, with readers continuing to drive its momentum forward.

Related: Best-Selling Author's Novel Ranked No. 1 'Most Addictive Read' of All Time

If you're anything like me, the day is not complete until I finish all of the free word games from the New York Times. Working on the daily Connections, Connections Sports Edition, Wordle, and Strands is a whole ritual for many of us. And we can't forget about the NYT's The Mini Crossword, too!

Although the NYT is known for "The Crossword," a larger puzzle for paid subscribers, The Mini has quite the fan following as well. This particular game resets at 10 p.m., unlike some of the others that start over at midnight.

So, if you're working on today's Mini on for Today's Mini Crossword on Saturday, April 11, and need some help (I've been there), get ready to read the clues and solutions for each line. We have them separated into hints first for both "Across" and "Down" words, followed by "Across Answers" and "Down Answers," so be careful if you want to avoid spoilers as you scroll!

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Hints for NYT’s The Mini Crossword on Saturday, April 11, 2026

Here are additional clues for each of the words in today's Mini Crossword.

NYT Mini Across Hints

1 Across: N.B.A. team that plays at M.S.G. — HINT: Starts with the letter "K"

7 Across: Guy with a nerdy, passionate interest —HINT: Starts with the letter "F"

8 Across: Rudely merges — HINT: Ends with the letter "N"

9 Across: Standard number of bowling pins — HINT: Starts with the letter "T"

10 Across: Inflated sense of one's own importance — HINT: Ends with the letter "O"

13 Across: Arrived via airplane — HINT: Starts with the letter "F"

14 Across: History-making achievements, perhaps — HINT: Ends with the letter "S"

Related: 16 Games Like Wordle To Give You Your Word Game Fix More Than Once Every 24 Hours

NYT Mini Down Hints

1 Down: Colonel Sanders's fast-food chain — HINT: Ends with the letter "C"

2 Down: Spiral-shelled mollusks — HINT: Starts with the letter "N"

3 Down: 1, 2 or 3, but not 1.23 — HINT: Starts with the letter "I"

4 Down: "60 Minutes" producer — HINT: Ends with the letter "S"

5 Down: Colorful pond fish — HINT: Starts with the letter "K"

6 Down: Thesaurus listing: Abbr. — HINT: Ends with the letter "N"

10 Down: Closest pal, for short — HINT: Starts with the letter "B"

11 Down: "Go on, ___!" ("Scram!") — HINT: Starts with the letter "G"

12 Down: Opposite of offs — HINT: Ends with the letter "S"

Answers to NYT’s The Mini Crossword for Saturday, April 11, 2026

Don't go any further unless you want to know exactly what the correct words are in today's Mini Crossword.

NYT Mini Across Answers

1 Across: N.B.A. team that plays at M.S.G. — KNICKS

7 Across: Guy with a nerdy, passionate interest —FANBOY

8 Across: Rudely merges — CUTSIN

9 Across: Standard number of bowling pins — TEN

10 Across: Inflated sense of one's own importance — BIGEGO

13 Across: Arrived via airplane — FLEWIN

14 Across: History-making achievements, perhaps — FIRSTS

NYT Mini Down Answers

1 Down: Colonel Sanders's fast-food chain — KFC

2 Down: Spiral-shelled mollusks — NAUTALI

3 Down: 1, 2 or 3, but not 1.23 — INTEGER

4 Down: "60 Minutes" producer — CBSNEWS

5 Down: Colorful pond fish — KOI

6 Down: Thesaurus listing: Abbr. — SYN

10 Down: Closest pal, for short — BFF

11 Down: "Go on, ___!" ("Scram!") — GIT

12 Down: Opposite of offs — ONS

Related: We Asked 3 Chefs the Best Thing To Make With Canned Beans, and They All Said the Same Thing

Most of us probably don't think twice about how often we rely on convenience stores, but they really do come through in clutch moments. And over time, many of the bigger chains have expanded beyond just stocking name brands. They've built out their own private label products too—everything from bottled water to iced teas and juices—usually at a slightly friendlier price point.

But just like any other food or beverage company, those store-brand items aren't immune to issues. Recalls can happen across the board, whether it's a national brand or a private label product sitting in a convenience store cooler. And now, one popular regional chain, Wawa, is dealing with exactly that situation.

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Certain bottled beverages sold under Wawa's own label are being pulled from shelves, serving as a reminder that even the most familiar, grab-and-go staples can occasionally come with unexpected concerns.

On April 3, 2026, the FDA shared Wawa's voluntary recall of its 16-ounce pints of Wawa Iced Tea Lemon, Wawa Iced Tea Diet Lemon, Wawa Diet Lemonade and Wawa Fruit Punch. All of these items were produced by the Wawa Beverage Company.

Wawa Diet Iced Tea Lemon in a 16-ounce bottle is one of the products involved in the recall.

Wawa

The recall includes several 16-ounce pint bottles of Wawa-branded beverages sold across multiple states. Affected products include Wawa Iced Tea Lemon (UPC 726191018425) with a code date of May 15, 2026, sold in 123 stores across Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. Wawa Iced Diet Tea Lemon (UPC 726191018548), with a code date of May 18, 2026, was distributed to eight stores in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Wawa Diet Lemonade (UPC 726191055901), also marked with a May 18, 2026 code date, was sold in 12 stores in Delaware and New Jersey. Lastly, Wawa Fruit Punch (UPC 726191018432), with a code date of May 19, 2026, was available in 53 stores across Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. All code dates can be found printed on the top of each bottle.

Related: Immediate Recall Issued on This Popular Pantry Staple for a Very Serious Reason

Why Were These Wawa Drinks Recalled?

Here's what happened: The bottled drinks were recalled due to the possible presence of an undeclared milk allergen. The company traced this back to a temporary equipment issue during the manufacturing process that has since been identified and corrected. While no illnesses have been reported, Wawa says its serious about making its top priority the health and safety of both customers and associates. That's why they chose to pull the affected products from store shelves and initiate the recall out of an abundance of caution. Better safe than sorry, right?

If you purchased any of the impacted drinks you're encouraged to dispose of them right away and reach out to Wawa’s 24-hour customer contact center with questions or to request a refund in the form of a Wawa gift card.

Related: Trader Joe's Issues Another Frozen Food Recall After Reports of Glass

Few fantasy novels have built as passionate a following as Throne of Glass.

The bestselling book by Sarah J. Maas has been ranked among the "most read books" on Goodreads, based on user data tracking how often readers mark titles as completed. The distinction highlights the novel's continued popularity and ever-growing fan base even years after its initial release.

Originally published in 2012, Throne of Glass introduces readers to Celaena Sardothien, a skilled assassin who is pulled from a brutal prison camp and offered a chance at freedom, but there is one condition: she must compete in a deadly tournament to become the king's champion, facing off against other dangerous criminals in a high-stakes contest.

As the competition unfolds, Celaena becomes entangled in court politics, unexpected alliances and a growing mystery that suggests something far more sinister is at play within the castle walls. Alongside the action and intrigue, the story also weaves in elements of romance and self-discovery.

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"I first got the inspiration for Throne of Glass by listening to a piece of music from Disney's Cinderella score," Maas told Good Reading Magazine. "I thought the music that plays when she flees the ball (and the whole scene, to be honest) was really, really dark and intense – my imagination, not surprisingly, made the jump to 'Well, what if she had done something really bad?' And then I went one step further and asked: 'What if she was an assassin who tried to kill the Prince?' And so Throne of Glass was born. As I wrote over those ten years and explored more of that assassin's world, it became its own story, not a straight-up retelling, though Cinderella was the original spark!"

The novel marked the beginning of a bestselling series that would go on to sell millions of copies worldwide and establish Maas as one of the most influential voices in modern fantasy. Its blend of strong character development, fast-paced storytelling and expansive world-building helped it connect with a wide audience.

"Celaena kinda just walked right into my head the moment I had the idea for the series," Maas said in an interview. "Though I think she was also the product of my love forBuffy the Vampire Slayer, Kill Bill, Han Solo from Star Wars, and Disney princesses, as well as my desire to write/read a book where the heroine got to do all the 'fun' things that boys usually get to do: kick butt, kill monsters, save the world."

Maas has since completed the eight-book series, and has also created two other bestselling series, A Court of Thorns and Roses and Crescent City.

Over time, Throne of Glass has remained a fixture on reading lists, particularly among fans of young adult and fantasy fiction. With its ranking among Goodreads' most read books, the novel's impact is once again underscored, proving that its story continues to captivate readers across the country and around the world.

Related: Best-Selling Author’s Novel Ranked ‘Most Read Book’ in United States on Goodreads

German heavy metal legends Accept have shared joyful personal news just weeks before kicking off their major 2026 tour schedule. 

The band revealed on Instagram that their drummer, Christopher Williams, and his wife, Ainsley, have welcomed a baby boy, marking a special moment for the group as they prepare to celebrate a historic milestone year.

In a heartfelt post, the band shared a photo of Williams holding his newborn son and expressed their excitement for the growing family. 

“Congratulations to our drummer extraordinaire, Christopher Williams, and his beautiful Ainsley, who have just ushered in a miraculous and magnificent baby boy onto planet Earth,” the band wrote.

“Extra high five for Mama who grew him so well for 9 months and went through the labor. We are so happy for you both and can’t wait to see him rocking out and cheering his dad on at shows!” they added wrote.

Christopher Williams drummer of the band Accept performs live on stage.

Photo by Mauricio Santana/Getty Images

The message continued with an important update for fans planning to attend their early shows this year.

“For the Accept shows in May, Christopher will be at his rightful place, at home with his new family …. And so we will be inviting a very cool, special and awesome guest in his place who we have just finished rehearsing with! All will be revealed soon…..”

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The announcement confirms that Williams will temporarily step away from live performances in May 2026 to spend time with his newborn and wife. While the band did not reveal the identity of the replacement drummer, they teased that a “very cool, special and awesome guest” has already rehearsed with them.

Despite the temporary lineup change, the band assured fans that performances will continue as planned. The upcoming shows are part of a much larger celebration marking Accept’s 50th anniversary.

Formed in 1976 in Solingen, Germany, Accept has spent five decades shaping the sound of European heavy metal. Known for powerful riffs, anthemic songs and high-energy performances, the band has sold over 17 million albums worldwide and influenced countless artists in the genre.

Their 2026 anniversary tour is set to be one of their biggest yet. It includes festival appearances beginning in May, followed by a massive European leg later in the year. The fall tour alone features 24 shows across 11 countries, including Germany, France, Spain, Italy and more.

Fans can expect performances in major cities such as Paris, Madrid, Vienna, Berlin and Munich. The tour will also feature special guest acts Dynazty and Tailgunner, adding even more excitement to the lineup.

In addition to the tour, Accept is preparing a special 50th-anniversary album. The release is expected to include re-recorded classics, deeper cuts, and guest appearances, offering both longtime fans and new listeners a fresh look at the band’s legacy.

As Accept gears up for a year-long celebration, the birth of Christopher Williams’ son adds a personal highlight to an already significant chapter in the band’s history.

Related: Beloved ’90s Rocker Addresses Personal Life 12 Years After Leaving Iconic Band

The Clash’ song “London Calling” is not just the band’s move to go beyond their punk roots, but also became a defining generational anthem.

Written by Joe Strummer and Mick Jones and released in 1979, at the height of cultural upheaval and political unrest, the single’s apocalyptic and rebellious lyrics, along with its upbeat rhythms, channeled a generation’s frustration into a powerful statement.

Fifty years later, the song’s enduring resonance reflects its place among the “best rock songs of all time,” as cited by Entertainment Weekly.

In an article, the publication released the top 25 rock songs that met four strict criteria.

First, the song had to be of “desert island quality” and be worth listening to over and over.

The second was passing the iconic “Wayne and Garth rock-out-in-the-car test,” a nod to the popular headbanging scene in the 1992 movie Wayne's World.

Another criterion was that it had to be a true “boundary-breaker,” and lastly, it had to “stand the test of time,” proving that it is just as relevant today as it was during the time of its release.

The Clash’ hit song managed to tick all the boxes, making it No. 14.

The Clash members Joe Strummer, Paul Simonon, Mick Jones, Nicky 'Topper' Headon in New York, September 1978.

Michael Putland/Getty Images

The publication praised the single’s unique guitar riffs that “provide brief, jagged slashes of color.”

According to Jones, he once mentioned in an interview that they didn't want to limit their music to only punk, but rather they wanted to be diverse and draw inspiration from different genres like reggae, rockabilly and jazz.

"We wanted to make a record that sounded like the city we lived in, which was full of all these different sounds and cultures,” he explained. “We didn't want to be limited. We wanted to make music that was broader, and we were listening to all sorts of things, not just punk, reggae, rockabilly, jazz, all that."

Beyond its lyrical power, “London Calling” solidified the band’s global reputation, peaking at No. 11 in the U.K. charts and also charting in the Australian Top 40.

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Not only was the single a critical success, but the album received major acclaim, selling over five million copies worldwide and being released as a double album.

Moreover, even fellow musicians were impressed, like Sex Pistols’ Steve Jones, who expressed his admiration to The Clash during his guest appearance on Indie 103.1 FM, LA.

He also described “London Calling” as the band's “Anarchy in the UK.”

“I thought it was a depressing song but significant, because of the lyrics,” he shared, as cited by The Guardian. “You know, history gets twisted by those who weren't there. The Clash, they were there, we were there.”

Lastly, Steve Jones also highlighted his friendship with some of the members, particularly Joe Strummer and Mick Jones, calling them “great guys.”

Related: 1969 Career-Defining Classic Was a No. 1 Hit 57 Years Ago Today

With a series as epic as Game of Thrones, it's nearly impossible to say which episode is the absolute "best" of all...although it's not very difficult to guess which one the majority of viewers would probably call the worst. (Was the series finale really all that bad, though?)

Anyway, back to figuring out which Game of Thrones episode was the greatest ever. Unsurprisingly, this is a task many fans, critics and publications alike have attempted in the years since the massively successful HBO show ended. Just weeks ago, for example, TVLine ranked the "15 Best GoT Episodes" ever...and the episode that came in first might surprise you.

The list kicked off with "The Dragon and the Wolf" (Season 7, Episode 7) in the 15th slot, and with good reason. All kinds of wild plot lines come to a head in this episode, which sees Arya and Sansa Stark joining forces to turn on Littlefinger and Jon Snow and Daenerys Targaryen teaming up to convince Cersei Lannister to help fight the wights (as well as just "teaming up" in general). Plus, Bran and Samwell find out Jon is the son of Rhaegar Targaryen and Lyanna Stark, making him the true heir to the Iron Throne. Drama!

"Mother's Mercy" (Season 5, Episode 10), ranked #12, is packed with high-stakes moments too, including Arya getting blinded by the Faceless Man and Cersei's famous walk of shame, as is "The Children" (Season 4, Episode 10), which includes the unforgettable moment when Tyrion kills his father, Tywin, at a most inopportune moment (ranked #10).

The top five kicked off with the fan-favorite — and absolutely epic — "Battle of the Bastards"(Season 6, Episode 9), featuring Rickon's brutal death scene and the very satisfying moment Sansa sets Ramsay's own dogs on him. In fourth place was "Hardhome" (Season 5, Episode 8), in which Daenerys vows to "break the wheel" and Jon witnesses the Night King revive a battlefield full of dead wildlings as wights; "The Rains of Castamere" (Season 3, Episode 9) took third place, because...well, The Red Wedding, obviously. The second-place spot went to "Baelor" (Season 1, Episode 9), famed for one of the most shocking TV deaths of all time (poor Ned Stark).

So which GoT episode was awarded the #1 position? That honor went to "The Watchers on the Wall" (Season 4, Episode 9).

"Is 'The Watchers on the Wall' an unlikely pick for the best Game of Thrones episode? Maybe, but that doesn't change the fact it's one of the most masterful hours of television in the entire eight season run of the show," wrote TVLine's Blaise Santi, going on to point out that "Jon Snow shines as the leader he was always meant to be" in this episode, which focuses on a battle between the Night's Watch and the wildling army.

"If any episode could've justified a Jon Snow spin-off, it's this one," Santi added.

Of course, as most GoT fans will remember, "The Watchers on the Wall" also featured one of Jon's most heartbreaking moments, when his tumultuous relationship with Ygritte comes to a tragic end after she's hit with an arrow and dies in his arms...but not before reminding Jon he knows nothing for the very last time.

What do you think? Was "The Watchers on the Wall" really the best Game of Thrones episode of all time? Sound off in the comments!

Related: The No. 1 'Best TV Romance' of All Time Had the Most Tragic Ending

In 1972, Billy Paul released a song that would define his career and leave a lasting imprint on soul music.

His hit, "Me and Mrs. Jones," climbed to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming his biggest commercial success and one of the most recognizable songs of the decade.

Built around lush instrumentation and Paul's distinctive, expressive vocals, the track tells the story of a secret romance between two people meeting regularly despite the complications surrounding their relationship. Its emotional honesty and understated storytelling helped it stand out from other love songs of the era.

"I knew that 'Me and Mrs. Jones' would be a hit even before it was released," Paul told Goldmine. "It's a song that everybody can relate to."

The song also showcased the signature sound of Philadelphia soul, blending orchestral arrangements with smooth rhythms to create a rich, atmospheric listening experience. Its polished production and heartfelt delivery helped it connect with a wide audience, earning both critical acclaim and commercial success.

Written by the iconic duo of Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff, the song was based on a real-life encounter. "Whenever I came to Philly from Camden to meet with Gamble, we would first have breakfast every morning at 10:00 a.m. at the same restaurant,” Huff recalled in an interview. "One morning, while we were having breakfast, a guy came into the restaurant. I recognized him from Camden. He went back outside to meet a woman getting out of a taxicab. I told Gamble the woman wasn't the man's wife, because I knew the male character.”

Huff took note of the fact that the same meeting occurred morning after morning.

"So Gamble, with my collaboration, wrote the song the same way the two characters at the restaurant played it out," he said. "We wrote what we saw: This man coming to the same restaurant, at the same time, meeting the same woman, sitting at the same table, and the woman playing the same song on the jukebox every time. We wrote the song for Billy."

"Me and Mrs. Jones" went on to win the Grammy Award for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance, further cementing its place in music history. Over the years, it has been covered and referenced by numerous artists, underscoring its enduring influence.

More than five decades later, the song remains a staple of classic soul playlists, a timeless anthem that continues to resonate with listeners through its blend of romance, vulnerability and unforgettable melody.

Related: 1972 Hit Ranked Among ‘Greatest Songs of All Time’ Became a No. 1 Hit

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If you have a green thumb when it comes to decorating your home, then you've probably invested in quite a few plant-related household items. Thanks to Walmart, you can shop a slew of similar offerings at a big discount that will actually upgrade your space, like this adorable hanging planter or sturdy eight-tier plant stand. Now, we're adding the Merryhome 5-Pack Metal Plant Stand Set to your shopping list, considering it's 57% off right now. 

The stands originally cost $53, but has been marked down to $23 in a flash deal. The set includes five black plant stands at varying heights: 6.9, 7.9, 9.1, 10, and 11 inches). You can place them indoors or outdoors to include a more dynamic look into your space, considering each height makes for a multi-level decoration. The reinforced iron legs aremade of 85% recycled iron andcan support up to 110 pounds per stand. 

Merryhome 5-Pack Metal Plant Stand Set, $23 (was $53) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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The robust legs also have crossbars for stability, so each stand can hold fairly heavy pots. Each one is also powder-coated with a non-toxic coating to ensure that they're rust-, scratch-, and UV-resistant (which is especially helpful if you plan on putting them outside on patios, with humidity, snow, etc.). The best feature about these plant stands is that there is no assembly required, so you can set them up within minutes. 

You can place terracotta pots, ceramic planters, woven baskets, and more on these plant stands. If you're looking to maximize floor space, the best way to arrange these stands and still add dimension to your space is to place them vertically. Reviewers placed the produce in their sunroom, living room, and around the edges of the patio.

Related: Walmart’s 'Elegant' and 'Sturdy' $160 5-Piece Dining Set Is 'Perfect for Small Spaces'

Customers described these stands as "adorable," "absolutely gorgeous," "beautiful," "very pretty," "very sturdy." Plus, because each stand is several inches off of the ground, it's pretty easy to clean the floor or stranded leaves underneath. "Don't hesitate to buy these," another shopper recommended. 

Considering the sale price is extremely affordable, you can even purchase another set of these plant stands — one for indoor and one for outdoor.

Shop More Deals

• Costway Patio Glider Rocking Bench, $80 (was $90) at Walmart
• Athope Office Chair, $70 (was $140) at Walmart
• Neglyim 9-Drawer Dresser, $216 (was $260) at Walmart

The easiest way to bring new life into your home is to add some plants. Invest in this stunning five-pack metal plant stand set while it's only $23 at Walmart! 

Don’t miss future deals! Sign up for Parade Picks to receive our commerce team’s curated selection of discounts and sales, twice a week.

When it comes to books, there’s nothing more popular right now than the romantasy genre. The category, which blends romance and fantasy, is one of the fastest-growing in publishing thanks to its mix of high-stakes magic, immersive world-building, and intense, even steamy love stories.

Popularized heavily by #BookTok, romantasy books feature passionate romances set against fantastical adventures. Writers like Rebecca Yarros and Sarah J. Maas continue to dominate the genre, but now Cosmopolitan is highlighting the perfect romantasy novel for Nora Ephron fans. If you love Sleepless in Seattle, can quote every line from When Harry Met Sally, or adore You’ve Got Mail, there’s a book for you. Keep reading to discover the novel Cosmo calls “You’ve Got Mail-meets-mythology.” It’s no surprise the New York Times describes this book as “exquisite.”

Why Divine Rivals Is the Perfect Romantasy Pick @bookishbasma

I’ll take a “never say never” answer!! #divinerivals #rebeccaross #yallfest

♬ original sound - Basma 💕

Cosmopolitan names Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross one of its favorite romantasy books, writing:

“I’m a Nora Ephron superfan, which means a novel billed as You’ve Got Mail-meets-mythology was right up my alley. Two rival journalists vying for their own newspaper column discover they have a unique connection through a magical typewriter. Ultimately, their romantic bond is tested on the front lines of the war being waged by the gods who have re-emerged after centuries of sleep.”

Rachel Griffin, the New York Times bestselling author of The Nature of Witches, calls Divine Rivals “Deeply romantic and beautifully written.”

New York Times bestselling author Ayana Gray says Divine Rivals is “whip-smart” and “a brilliant blend of whimsy and heart.”

Related: New York Times Books Names This 'Stunning Romantasy' One of the Year's Best Hidden Gems

Synopsis of Divine Rivals @thegrimoire_nz

The Collectors Edition of Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross is here, and we are speechless… This breathtaking edition features: 🌺 A premium foiled slipcase with die cut elements. 🌺 An embossed hardcover with foiled details. 🌺 Custom full colour character art endpapers and a full colour map. 🌺 Flower edges. 🌺 A never before seen bonus chapter. This edition is perfect for hardcore fans of the story or those wanting a stunning edition as their first copy! Secure yours today on our website.

♬ original sound - thegrimoire_nz

Divine Rivals is a historical fantasy romance and the first book in the Letters of Enchantment duology. The story follows Iris Winnow, an 18-year-old aspiring journalist whose brother is missing in a war between gods. Iris writes letters to her brother and slips them into her wardrobe, but mysteriously they are delivered to her rival, Roman Kitt. The two begin an anonymous correspondence, forming a deep emotional bond without realizing who the other is.

As the war escalates, Iris becomes a war correspondent, and the story explores themes of love developing between enemies, the horrors of war, and fate and divine conflict.

About Rebecca Ross

Rebecca Ross is known for writing emotionally driven fantasy and romance with historical elements. Blending magic, war settings, and relationships, Ross has written several novels, but none as successful as Divine Rivals.

Exquisite, indeed.

Related: NYT Books Calls This Brand New Romantasy 'A Novel Everyone Will Be Talking About in 2026': 'Unputdownable'

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So apparently, '90s megastars Heather Locklear, 64, and Lorenzo Lamas, 68, are dating, according to TMZ. Your eyes are not deceiving you. Heather Locklear (Melrose Place) and Lorenzo Lamas (Renegade)! And it's allegedly been going on for months. What in the time machine back to the 1993 is going on!?

According to TMZ's recent report, the maybe celebrity couple was photographed canoodling romantically in a Las Vegas steakhouse back on New Year's Eve (as in the eve of December 31, 2025). TMZ claims to be sharing the photos and talking to the right sources to prove it. And these sources tell them this romance has been going on long enough that they're ready to hang out together with all their adult kids soon.

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Both stars kicked off their careers in the early '80s. Locklear played Officer Stacy Sheridan on the popular cop show T.J. Hooker (1982–1986) and Sammy Jo Dean Carrington in the prime-time soap Dynasty (1981–1989). At the same time, Lamas was gaining fame playing Lance Cumson on the competing prime-time soap Falcon Crest (1981–1990). 

Related: Lorenzo Lamas and Heather Locklear's 1983 'Playgirl' Cover Resurfaces Amid Dating Rumors

Locklear was formerly married to Mötley Crüe drummer Tommy Lee (1986–1993) and later to Bon Jovi guitarist Richie Sambora (1994–2007) with who she has one daughter, Ava Sambora, 28.

Lamas has a longer list of past spouses, having been married six times, the latest divorce filing was in July 2025. He has six grown children, whose ages range 25-42.

How does something like this even happen? Two former Hollywood dreamboats meet up in their 60s and find romance. This could go spectacularly—or go spectacularly off the rails.

Here's Lorenzo Lamas back in the '80s:

Photo by Brad Elterman on Getty Images

Here's Heather Locklear back in the '80s:

Photo by ABC Photo Archives on Getty Images

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A traditional Nordic name is very similar to a Scandinavian name, but the Nordic area also encompasses Iceland, Finland, Greenland and the Faroe Islands, whereas Scandinavia is only Norway, Sweden and Denmark.

Norse culture is a blend of paying homage to its Viking roots, focusing on nature and highlighting the importance of a cozy lifestyle. There are many rituals and celebrations that a Nordic lifestyle maintains that focus on community and light, including St. Lucia's Day, hygge evenings, fikka coffee breaks and bonfires. This rich culture is definitely one to be honored and passed down from generation to generation. What better way is there to carry on these beautiful ideals than to keep their spirit alive and name your baby a Nordic name?

Norse mythology is also a large part of Nordic history and can be seen represented in some of the monikers on our list of 75 best Nordic baby names for a touch of whimsy and the ethereal, which would be so fitting for your little adventurer. There are also plenty of nature-inspired names for those who revere the more natural side of life. Considering Nordic countries love babies so much that they're able to leave them napping outside in the snow, per the BBC, it's only fitting to borrow a moniker for your little bundle of joy from their culture.

The privilege of naming your child can be such an exciting time! Consider choosing a rich and historical Nordic name that will offer the perfect blend of natural, cozy elements and strength for your little one. Continue reading to discover your favorite.

Related: 125 Modern Baby Names for Boys and Girls Born in 2026

75 Best Nordic Names

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1. Ran — In Norse mythology, Ran is the goddess and personification of the sea. The name means "theft" or "robbery."
2. Vala — This Swedish name means "seeress" or "prophet," and it stems from the Old Norse word "volva," which means "staff-bearer."
3. Freya — This name can also be spelled Freja or Freyja and is the name of the Norse goddess of love, fertility, battle and death. The name itself means "lady."
4. Bertil — Derived from the Old Norse name Bertulfr, which means "bright wolf," this name means "bright" or "bright ruler."
5. Darby — Originating from the Old Norse words "djúr,"meaning "deer," and "býr," meaning "farm," this name means "deer settlement" or "deer park."
6. Skai — This name has dual meanings, one from the Old Norse word "ský," meaning "cloud," and the other from the name Skaði, which refers to the goddess of winter, mountains and hunting.
7. Ingvar — Ing is the name of the Norse god of fertility, who is also known as Freyr. The name Ingvar means "warrior of Ing."
8. Tove — Derived from the Old Norse name Þórfríðr, Tove means "beautiful" or "beloved" and is associated with the god Thor.
9. Loki— The name of the god of mischief in Norse mythology, Loki is derived from the Germanic root "luk" and means "lock," "knot" or "hook."
10. Saga — This Scandinavian feminine name stems from Old Norse and means "story," "tale" or "history." It has also been interpreted to mean "prophet" or "seeing one."
11. Thurid — This name stems from the Old Norse word "fridr," meaning "beautiful" and is associated with the god Thor.
12. Kirk — From the Old Norse word "kirkja," meaning "church" or "place of worship," this name was historically used for someone who lived near a church.
13. Crosby — With Old Norse origins, this name means "farmstead with crosses" or "village with a cross."
14. Eilif — With Norwegian and Swedish heritage, this name means "immortal," "always alive" or "ever-living."
15. Nanne — This Swedish name has roots in Old Norse from the name Nannulf and means "daring wolf."
16. Brynhild — Meaning "protection in battle," this German and Old Norse name is often shortened to Bryn.
17. Orm — This Old Norse word means "snake," "dragon" or "worm" and is used as a namesake to represent power or wisdom.
18. Sigurd — Combining the Old Norse words "sigr," meaning "victory," and "vodr," meaning "guardian," this name means "victorious protector" or "guardian of victory."
19. Valdis — Primarily Icelandic with Old Norse origins, this name means "goddess of the dead" or "goddess of the slain."
20. Esben — This Danish name is rooted in Old Norse and means "god-bear" or "divine bear."
21. Dagny — A combination of the Old Norse words "dag," meaning "day," and "ny," meaning "new," this name means "new day" or "daybreak."
22. Inga — Originating from the goddess of fertility in Norse mythology, Ing, this name means "protected by Ing" or "daughter of a hero."
23. Shelby — With Old Norse and Old English roots, this name means "willow farm" or "willow settlement."
24. Gudrun — This Old Norse name means "god's secret lore."
25. Yrsa — Originated in the Viking Age, this Old Norse name means "bear" or "she-bear."

Related: 125 Native American Names for Your Baby That Have Gorgeous Meanings

Nordic Boy Names

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1. Bjorn — Often used to symbolize a fearless or protective personality, this Old Norse name means "bear."
2. Gunnar — Stemming from the German name Gunther, the Scandinavian name Gunnar means "bold warrior" or "fighter."
3. Leif — Derived from the Old Norse word "leifr," this name means "heir" or "descendant."
4. Finn — Both an Irish and Finnish name, Finn means "fair" or "white" and was used in Old Norse to represent a "man from Finland."
5. Halsten — Combining the Old Norse words "hallr" and "steinn," this name means "rock" or "stone."
6. Aksel — A variant spelling of Axel, this is the Danish form of the Hebrew name Absalom. It means "father of peace."
7. Roger — Stemming from the Old English name Hrothgar and the Old Norse name Hroarr, Roger is the modern English variant and means "famous spear."
8. Olaf — From the Old Norse name Áleifr, Olaf means "ancestor's relic" or "descendant of ancestors."  
9. Sten — This name comes from the Old Norse word for "stone," "steinn."
10. Erik — Meaning "eternal ruler" or "sole ruler," this name is derived from the Old Norse name Eirikr.
11. Hakon — Also spelled Haakon, this Old Norse name means "high son," "chosen one" or "noble descendant."
12. Thorsten — Combining Thor and the Old Norse word "steinn," meaning "stone," this name means "Thor's stone" or "stone of Thor."
13. Amund — Derived from the Old Norse name Agmundr, this name means "protected by the sword" or "respectful protector."
14. Ivar — This Scandinavian name is rooted in Old Norse and combines the words yr and herr, and means "archer" or "bow warrior."
15. Frode — Taken from the Old Norse word "frodr," which means "knowing" or "well-informed," this name holds connotations of wisdom and cleverness.
16. Harald — This Old Norse name means "army ruler" and is an alternative spelling of the name Harold.
17. Arne — Stemming from the Old Norse word arn, this name means "eagle."
18. Viggo — A modern variant of the Old Danish name Vigge, this name means "war" or "battle."
19. Rayner — The English version of the Norman name Ragnar, Rayner means "wise warrior" or "counselor of the army."
20. Torvald — With Old Norse origins, this Scandinavian name means "Thor's ruler" or "Thor's rule."
21. Anders — This name is the Scandinavian version of the Greek Andreas and English Andrew and means "strong and manly" or "brave."
22. Havard — Derived from the Old Norse name Hávarðr, this name means "high guardian" or "eminent protector."
23. Norman — With Viking roots, this German name combines the words "nord," meaning "north," and man, meaning "Norseman."
24. Gorm — Meaning "he who worships God," this was the name of Gorm the Old, who is considered to be the first Danish King.
25. Arvid — Of Old Norse origins, this name means "eagle wood," "forest of eagles" or "brave warrior."

Related: 75 Unique Superhero Names for Your Baby Inspired by Marvel and DC Characters

Nordic Girl Names

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1. Edda — This is the Old Norse word for "grandmother," but it is also thought to stem from the word "odr," which means "spirit," "passion" or "poetry."
2. Astrid — Derived from the Old Norse name Ástríðr, Astrid means "divinely beautiful" or "beloved of the gods."
3. Asta — Often a nickname for Astrid, Asta comes from the Old Norse word "ast," which means "love."
4. Gertrud — With Old High German origins, this name means "spear of strength" or "strong spear."
5. Helga — Stemming from the Old Norse word "heilagr," this name means "prosperous," "blessed" or "holy."
6. Erika — The feminine form of Erik, Erika means "eternal ruler" or "sole ruler."
7. Kara — Kara is the name of a Valkyrie in Norse mythology, and the name comes from the Old Norse name Kari, which means "curly-haired."
8. Ingrid — Derived from the fertility goddess Ing and the Old Norse word "fridr," this name means "beautiful," "Ing's beauty" or "Ing's beloved."
9. Runa — Stemming from the Old Norse word "run" and the feminine form of the name Rune, Runa means "secret lore."
10. Anneli — Primarily a Finnish and Scandinavian name, Anneli is a diminutive of the Hebrew name Anna and holds the meaning of "grace" and "favor."
11. Dahlia — The dahlia is a flower that was named after the Swedish botanist Anders Dahl. Stemming from the Old Norse word "dalr," this name means "valley."
12. Birgitta — Birgitta and Birgit are Scandinavian forms of the Irish name Bridget, and mean "exalted one."
13. Hilda — With both Old High German and Old Norse origins, this name is derived from the word "hildr," which means "battle" or "warrior."
14. Sassa — A diminutive of Astid, Sassa means "god," "fair" or "beautiful."
15. Liv — Derived from the Old Norse word "hlif," meaning "shelter" or "protection," this modern Nordic name means "life."
16. Annika — A Swedish nickname for Anna, which has Hebrew roots and means "God has favored."
17. Thyra — Meaning "helpful," this name is associated with the Norse god Thor. It can also mean "Thor's warrior," "thunder warrior" or "follower of Thor."
18. Frida — This name comes from the Old Norse word "fríða" and the Germanic word "frid" and means "peace" or "protection."
19. Rayna — A modern, feminine form of the Old Norse name Ragnar, Rayna means "warrior counsel."
20. Erna — A diminutive of Ernestine with Old High German and Old Norse origins, this name means either "eagle" or "earnest, serious."
21. Idonea — From the Old Norse name Idunnr, Idonea can also be spelled Idony, and is the name of the goddess of spring and immortality in Norse mythology. It means "love" or "renewal."
22. Sif — This is the Old Norse word for "bride" or "wife" and can also be spelled Siv. Sif is Thor's wife in Norse mythology.
23. Disa — This name is often associated with female deities in Norse mythology and originates from the word "dís," which means "goddess," "spirit" or "sister."
24. Gunhild — Embodying strength, this Old Norse name means "war battle" or "battle maiden" and was often used for naming queens in Viking culture.
25. Revna — Derived from the Old Norse word "hrafn," this name means "raven" or "she-raven."

Up Next:

Related: 75 Amazing Aztec Names for Your Baby Boy or Girl

In 1992, Donna Tartt released a debut novel that would go on to become one of modern literature's most gripping sensations.

The Secret History has now been ranked No. 1 on Oprah Daily's list of the "Most Addictive Reads of All Time." The novel was placed above dozens of other widely loved titles, highlighting the book's continuous strong hold on readers years after its release.

First published in 1992, The Secret History follows Richard Papen, a California student who becomes entangled with an elite group of classics students at a small college in Vermont. As their relationships deepen, the story spirals into obsession, secrecy and murder. Its mix of suspense, moral complexity and dark academia helped it quickly gain attention.

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Part of what makes the novel so powerful is its ability to pull readers in from the opening pages. Instead of following a classic murder-mystery plotline, it reveals the details of the murder at the beginning and then unravels the surrounding events.

Oprah Daily praised the story's unique writing structure. "Combining psychological thriller, campus satire, and Greek tragedy, their story begins with a murder whose details take forever to emerge—the kind of forever that dazzles with insight and cleverness on every page."

Tartt's literary reputation has only grown since her groundbreaking debut. She later released The Goldfinch in 2014, and it went on to win the 2014 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction. Despite generally staying out of the spotlight, her persistent literary success has established her as one of the most respected and commercially successful contemporary novelists.

More than thirty years after its debut, The Secret History continues to attract devoted readers and new generations of fans. Its No. 1 ranking shows how its compelling writing has solidified its place in popular culture and keeps readers coming back.

Related: Best-Selling Author's Novel Ranked Among 'Best Books Ever' on Goodreads

Heated Rivalry and The Pittwon’t be leaving the spotlight anytime soon.

On April 9, the Peabody Awards announced nominees for their 86th awards ceremony. The Peabody Awards, hosted by the Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication at the University of Georgia, are known for celebrating the power of storytelling in media. This year is no different.

Hit TV shows like Heated Rivalry, The Pitt, Andor, Pluribus and others are among those nominated in the Entertainment category. The podcast Fela Kuti: Fear No Man is up against the Hulu documentary Sly Lives! (a.k.a. The Burden of Black Genius) in the Arts category, while multimedia journalism pieces from CNN and The Atlanta Journal-Constitution are among the nominees in the Interactive and Immersive category.

“These nominees showcase the power of storytelling at its most urgent and expansive, where art, entertainment, and innovation collide with the defining issues of our time,” Jeffrey Jones, executive director of Peabody, said. “From identity and mental health to political extremism, systemic inequality, and the search for belonging, this work reflects exactly what the Peabody Awards stand for: stories that challenge, illuminate, and push culture forward. Across every category, these nominees reflect the issues of our times and demand we engage more deeply.”

While 15 TV shows are nominated in the Entertainment category, fans on Instagram have been fixated mainly on one. In a post made by the Peabody Awards and liked by Hudson Williams and Jacob Tierney, the showrunner of Heated Rivalry, fans have flooded the comment section to show their support for the show.

“Congrats to everyone, cast and crew, who worked on Heated Rivalry!!” One fan commented. “Everyone put so much hard work and love into it and it shows. We appreciate every single one of you.”

Tagging Tierney, another fan said, “Thank you so much for giving us the show. It is the brightest light in dark times and i will never ever ever get over it.”

While the full list of winners will be announced on April 23, Peabody has already announced their Distinguished Individual and Institutional Award Winners. Sterlin Harjo won in the Trailblazer category, Amy Poehler received a Career Achievement award and PBS Kids received the Institutional award. The nominees for Documentary, News, Public Service and Radio/Podcast were announced on April 7.

The winners of the 86th Annual Peabody Awards will be celebrated on Sunday, May 31, at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel in Beverly Hills, Calif. Watch some highlights from last year’s ceremony here:

Considering she's one of the most iconic singers of all time, in any genre, it's safe to say Dolly Parton could turn just about any song into a hit. That doesn't mean every tune is right for her, though. When another legendary singer, Peter Gabriel, approached the country superstar about singing a song he'd written called "Don't Give Up," she turned him down...but Parton's rejection might have been a blessing in disguise, at least for Kate Bush.

While "Don't Give Up" appears as a duet between Bush and Gabriel on his fifth solo studio album, So (1986), it didn't begin that way (and wouldn't have ended up that way, either, if Parton had accepted).

"It started off as a solo song," Gabriel explained in a 1989 interview with Tony Bacon. "I just thought the story would work better with a man–woman relationship. It's really nice when Kate comes in, and she's there."

Gabriel went on to say that he was lyrically inspired by the photos of Dorothea Lange.

"She had these classic pictures from the dust bowl Depression in America, and there was one called In This Proud Land, although I haven't been able to find it since," he recalled. "I used that for the first line in the song. I'd also seen a TV program about the effect of unemployment on family life, so that played into my own problems at that time. I think a combination of that and domestic difficulties."

Ranked by Rolling Stone as one of the "Best Dramatic Duets of All Time," "Don't Give Up" is just as emotionally powerful as its inspiration.

After joking that it sounded like "music for jumping off bridges," Gabriel pointed out that "Don't Give Up" is "very positive actually. A lot of people like that song, a lot of people say to me that it came at a very good time in their life."

"It's fantastic that, a great feeling," he added. "This person, let's say, 'a well-known American comedian,' was very depressed. I was a great admirer of his, and he said, 'This song saved my life.' Totally unexpected."

'Don't Give Up' was played at Matthew Perry's funeral

While it's not clear which "American comedian" Gabriel was referring to in 1989, one comedic actor who was open about his love for "Don't Give Up" was late Friends star Matthew Perry. As Perry explained in an interview with Tom Power, it's the song he imagined as the soundtrack to his memoir, Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing.

‘It’s just beautiful," he said. "I don’t know if you’ve heard it as this was a long time ago but it’s beautiful and it’s saying don’t give up. I mean come, how am I not gonna like that?"

‘The music video of that was just them hugging each other and the camera just went around until the song was over," Perry continued, adding that he'd been signing copies of his book with "Don't give up."

As Metro reported, "Don't Give Up" was played at the end of Perry's funeral in a fitting (and heartbreaking) tribute.

Related: 1981 No. 1 Hit Ranked 'Biggest Duet of All Time' Became a Beloved Classic

Wendy's gave customers a hefty task, and people stepped up. The 2026 Bring It Back Bracket pitted some tasty options against one another, and a winner has been announced. The beloved Pretzel Bacon Pub Burger will be returning to Wendy's menus soon.

On March 30, Wendy's launched its 2026 Bring It Back Bracket. Via X, formerly Twitter, the company teased, "After a tough fight to make it on the bracket, we have our finalists!"

The finalists included Wendy's Sweet and Sour Sauce, the Bourbon Bacon Cheeseburger, Ghost Pepper Ranch Sauce, and the Bacon Portabelle Melt on one side. The opposing side of the bracket included the Dreamsicle Frosty, yellow packaging, the Pretzel Bacon Pub Burger, and the Monterey Ranch Chicken Sandwich.

The first round of voting showed the Pretzel Bacon Pub Burger crushing the Monterey Ranch Chicken, receiving nearly 75% of the votes. Yellow packaging had a solid win over the Bacon Portabella Melt, and both the Bourbon Bacon Cheeseburger and Ghost Pepper Ranch edged out their bracket foes by a few percentage points.

Interestingly, the face-off between the Pretzel Bacon Pub Burger and the yellow packaging was a fierce battle. Ultimately, with 50.4% of the votes, the burger won. The Bourbon Bacon Cheeseburger had a much more decisive win over the Ghost Pepper Ranch Sauce, garnering 63.5% of the votes.

In the final round of the bracket, the two bacon burgers faced off, and once again, it was a decisive win. The Pretzel Bacon Pub Burger won with 67% of the votes.

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The Wendy's announcement on April 9, declaring the Pretzel Bacon Pub Burger as the bracket winner, received a flurry of excited responses.

"This is the happiest day of my life," one tweet read.

Another poster gushed, "I'm so glad this won! Faith in humanity restored!!!"

"Oh my god, this was my favorite sandwich in the world. I'm so happy," someone else tweeted.

As All Recipes noted, the Wendy's Pretzel Bacon Pub Burger first debuted in 2020. It was taken off the menus in 2022, but fans who loved it never forgot it.

Wendy's promised that the burger would be back, but it did not reveal how soon or for how long. For now, Pretzel Bacon Pub Burger lovers will need to hold tight and stay tuned.

Legendary hard rock musician Vinny Appice is speaking out about the growing impact of cancer, a disease that deeply affected his life and career. 

In a recent interview with The Adventures Of Pipeman, the veteran musician shared his thoughts on the increasing number of cancer cases, especially among younger people, while remembering his late bandmate Ronnie James Dio, who died from stomach cancer in 2010.

“It’s an awful thing,” Appice said. “And it’s pretty popular right now, let’s put it that way.”

His comments come as health experts continue to track a troubling trend: more young individuals are being diagnosed with cancer despite overall improvements in detection and treatment over the past few decades.

Vinny Appice and Phil Soussan of Last in Line perform onstage at the NI Music Awards.

Photo by Carrie Davenport/Redferns

Appice, known for his work with iconic bands like Black Sabbath, Dio and Heaven & Hell, pointed to possible environmental factors behind the increase in cancer diagnoses. While he admitted uncertainty, he shared personal observations and concerns.

“Probably all the junk in the air and the food and the water and all that stuff, so who knows…” he said.

He also spoke about seeing unusual patterns in the sky, referencing what some call “chemtrails.” 

However, scientists explain that these are actually contrails—condensed water vapor from airplane engines at high altitudes. Studies and agencies like the Environmental Protection Agency have clarified that there is no verified evidence supporting claims that these trails are harmful chemical releases.

Despite differing views, Appice’s main concern remains clear: more people are getting sick, and it’s happening earlier in life.

Cancer has already left a lasting mark on his journey. Ronnie James Dio, his longtime collaborator and friend, passed away from stomach cancer, a disease that often shows symptoms only in its later stages, making it harder to treat.

For Appice, the loss of Dio is not just a chapter in rock history, it’s personal.

“It’s kind of a sad ending,” he said while reflecting on their final years together in Heaven & Hell. “But I’m glad we got to do it [and that we’re] putting this out, being Ronnie’s last [album].”

The two musicians shared decades of music and friendship. From their time in Black Sabbath during the early 1980s to forming Dio and later reuniting under Heaven & Hell, their bond was strong both on and off stage.

Appice described their creative process as natural and joyful. “We were just having a great time,” he said of recording classic albums like Holy Diver. “We didn’t sit there and go, ‘Let’s make an album that’s going to last 45 years.’”

Their final project together, The Devil You Know, was released in 2009, just a year before Dio’s passing. Plans for more music and tours were cut short when the singer became ill.

Even today, Appice keeps Dio’s memory alive. “He’s always in my heart,” he shared. “I always think about him and maybe crank up a Dio song or something.”

Now 68, Appice remains active in the music world. From performing with tribute projects to teaching drum clinics, he continues to influence new generations of musicians.

He recently celebrated the release of Breaking Out of Heaven, a box set that highlights the final years of Heaven & Hell. The collection serves as both a tribute to Dio and a reminder of the band’s powerful legacy.

“When I saw the package, I didn’t know that we had that much stuff,” Appice admitted to Loud Wire. “This is more of a celebration—it’s bringing it to the front.”

Beyond the stage, Appice’s reflections show a deeper message: life is fragile and health challenges can affect anyone, even rock legends.

Related: Iconic ’70s Rocker Addresses Bandmate’s Maternity Leave Amid 2026 Tour