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For generations of Americans, few grocery store treats spark instant nostalgia quite like Little Debbie snacks. Long before gourmet bakeries and over-the-top dessert trends dominated social media, these individually wrapped cakes, cookies and bars were already earning a permanent place in lunchboxes, road trip totes and family pantries.

Whether you grew up peeling apart the layers of a Nutty Buddy, savoring the soft chew of an Oatmeal Crème Pie or carefully nibbling the icing off a Zebra Cake, chances are you have a favorite — and a memory attached to it.

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Part of Little Debbie's enduring appeal is its consistency. While food trends come and go, many of the brand's most beloved treats have remained remarkably familiar for decades. That dependable flavor has allowed parents to introduce their children to the very same snacks they loved growing up, creating a rare bridge between generations. A box of Little Debbie cakes isn't just dessert — it's a tiny time capsule that transports people back to school lunches, birthday parties, family vacations and afternoons spent watching cartoons.

Professional chefs may spend their days creating elegant plated desserts with premium, handcrafted ingredients, but they're not immune to nostalgia. In fact, many say those childhood snacks still influence the way they think about flavor, texture, and comfort food today.

To find out which treats have stood the test of time, I asked five chefs to choose the one Little Debbie snack they'd happily eat forever — and explain what makes it so irresistible from a culinary perspective.

Our Panel of Experts

• Christine Fiorentino is a writer, television host and culinary and lifestyle creative. She has been featured on Food Network, HBO Max, Apple TV and Hulu, and contributes regularly to publications including Allrecipes, Travel + Leisure, Better Homes & Gardens, Simply Recipes and Southern Living. She is the founder of Fiorentino Productions and the creator and host of Beyond the Plate, a culinary series that explores food as a powerful connector at the intersection of cuisine, culture and community.
• Chef Travis Ramsdell, CDC, is a culinary executive and operator currently serving as vice president of culinary at True Connection Communities. He leads dining strategy across a national senior living portfolio, focusing on experience, efficiency and growth. With a background spanning higher education dining, including roles with Chartwells Higher Education and Eurest, he brings both large-scale operational leadership and hands-on culinary expertise.
• Jackie Alpers is an award-winning food photographer, recipe developer and cookbook author based in Tucson, Ariz. Her work explores the culture, history and stories behind food, with a focus on Sonoran and Southwestern cuisine. She creates photography and recipes for major publications and brands, and is the author of four cookbooks. Her visually rich storytelling has earned recognition from organizations including American Photography and the Taste Awards.
• Bonnie Norman is a senior pastry chef supervisor at Clark Bakery at the University of North Texas, where she brings creativity, expertise and a passion for pastry to the university community. With fourteen years of experience across all areas of pastry, she is also a respected culinary educator. Chef Norman was recently honored as Pastry Chef of the Year by her local American Culinary Federation chapter, recognizing her dedication to excellence, innovation and the craft of pastry.
• Chef Michael Manno is the founder and creator of Frequency Food Group, a Chicago-based food management company focused on regenerative and innovative food solutions. With more than 25 years of experience across restaurants, resorts, catering, foodservice and manufacturing, he is dedicated to building scalable systems that connect craftsmanship, sustainability and innovation.

Related: 7 Classic Grocery Brands That Quietly Disappeared—Do You Remember Them?

The Winners: Why Chefs Obsess Over These Iconic Little Debbie Snacks

Courtesy Julie Andrews

Unlike internet rankings that usually crown a single champion, my interviews revealed something more interesting — most of the chefs gravitated toward a different Little Debbie classic, but all for surprisingly similar reasons.

Their favorites weren't chosen simply because they were sweet — they represented memorable textures, balanced flavors and childhood moments that continue to resonate years later.

1. Birthday Cakes

Courtesy Julie Andrews

Chef Christine Fiorentino chose Birthday Cakes, calling them "nostalgic, fun, festive," and the perfect way to satisfy a sweet tooth. She joked that, as Julia Child famously said, "A party without cake is just a meeting."

From a pastry standpoint, she admires the snack's balance. She pointed out that many packaged cakes suffer from an uneven cake-to-frosting ratio, but Birthday Cakes deliver consistent layers of cake and sweet crème in every bite. She also appreciates the contrast between the crisp outer icing, crunchy rainbow sprinkles and soft interior cake, proving that texture matters as much as flavor.

2. Nutty Buddy

Courtesy Julie Andrews

Chef Travis Ramsdell immediately selected Nutty Buddy, praising what he considers an almost textbook example of contrast. "It has everything I look for in a dessert — contrast, balance and texture."

To him, the crisp wafers, creamy peanut butter filling and chocolate coating create a layered eating experience that never becomes monotonous. He also appreciates how the peanut butter's slight saltiness keeps the sweetness from becoming overwhelming — a principle pastry chefs strive for when creating desserts with depth.

3. Oatmeal Crème Pie

Courtesy Julie Andrews

Food writer and chef Jackie Alpers reached for the Oatmeal Crème Pie, noting that its appeal comes from restraint rather than excess. "They're not too sweet. They rely on strong flavors from real ingredients."

Instead of overwhelming sugar, Alpers appreciates the oatmeal, spice and creamy filling working together in harmony. She considers it one of the brand's most distinctive offerings, standing apart from snack cakes that closely resemble competitors.

Chef Michael Manno also chose the Oatmeal Crème Pie, but his reasoning blended culinary appreciation with a broader reflection on modern food. "If I have to choose one to live with for the rest of my days, it is the Oatmeal Crème Pie," he says, calling it "a masterclass in structural contrast." From a chef's perspective, Manno points to the snack's soft, pillowy cookies, creamy filling and subtle notes of molasses and spice as the elements that keep it balanced despite its sweetness.

While he acknowledges that nostalgia makes the treat especially meaningful, he says his ideal version would stay true to those familiar flavors while using high-quality, traditional ingredients. His takeaway is simple — even a humble snack cake can inspire thoughtful craftsmanship when its textures and flavors are fundamentally sound.

4. Zebra Cakes

Courtesy Julie Andrews

Chef Bonnie Norman remains loyal to Zebra Cakes, a favorite dating back to childhood. She loves the airy yellow cake paired with a white coating that offers "just enough resistance to make the bite interesting." Though undeniably sweet, she says the buttery finish keeps her coming back — preferably with a cold glass of milk.

Although each chef picked a different winner, they all described the same qualities — balance, texture, nostalgia and consistency. Those characteristics help explain why these treats continue to earn loyal fans decades after they first appeared on grocery store shelves.

The Culinary Science of Nostalgia: What Makes It So Good?

Courtesy Julie Andrews

Ask a chef why people become emotionally attached to certain foods and the answer rarely starts with sugar. Instead, it starts with memory. Every chef I interviewed described Little Debbie snacks as more than packaged desserts — they're edible reminders of childhood.

For Fiorentino, seeing the familiar boxes instantly brings back memories of growing up in the '90s, walking home from school with a few dollars in her pocket before stopping at the neighborhood store. Today, she enjoys sharing those same treats with her own children, creating a new generation of memories around the same familiar snacks.

Ramsdell recalled discovering Little Debbie treats tucked inside lunchboxes, grabbing one after school or packing them for family road trips. "People don't just remember what they ate—they remember how it made them feel." That emotional connection, he says, is just as important as the food itself.

Alpers associates Little Debbie with middle school vending machines during the 1980s. While she laughs that she isn't nostalgic for middle school itself, Nutty Buddy bars remain one of the bright spots she still remembers fondly decades later.

Norman recalls Little Debbie cakes as special occasion treats rather than everyday snacks. Because her family reserved them for field trips and school celebrations, they still feel like something worth celebrating today.

Manno views nostalgia as one of the most powerful ingredients in any dish. While his thoughts on Little Debbie are more reflective and critical of the modern food landscape, he acknowledges the emotional pull these snacks continue to have. "Nostalgia is the most powerful seasoning in the world," he says, explaining that these treats connect people to memories of childhood, comfort and simpler moments.

Interestingly, every chef also approached these snacks through a professional lens. Rather than dismissing packaged desserts, they admired the thoughtful interplay of crunchy coatings, soft cake, creamy fillings, chewy cookies and crisp wafers. Those contrasts are the same sensory principles chefs intentionally build into high-end desserts.

Sometimes comfort food succeeds not because it's complicated, but because it consistently delivers familiar flavors that people remember long after the last bite.

Related: 11 'Healthy' Snacks From the 2000s That Were Actually Just Sugar

The Honorable Mentions

Courtesy Julie Andrews

1. Cosmic Brownies

We can't forget about the remaining lineup of Little Debbie snacks. Fiorentino believes Cosmic Brownies deserve more attention because they offer everything chocolate lovers crave — rich flavor, dense texture and plenty of room for creativity. "I love a decadent, dense, rich and fudgy option on any dessert menu," she says. "These offer so much space and inspiration for chefs and recipe developers to get creative."

She envisions elevating the childhood favorite with premium cocoa, bittersweet chocolate, butter and a homemade ganache while keeping the colorful candy topping as a nostalgic finishing touch.

2. Swiss Cake Rolls

Ramsdell gave Swiss Rolls an honorable mention for their dependable balance of flavors and textures. "They're a great example of layered textures done well — soft chocolate cake, light cream filling and a thin chocolate coating. The combination is simple, but it's executed consistently, and consistency is something every chef values."

3. Star Crunch

Star Crunch earned praise from Alpers, who includes it among her top three Little Debbie snacks because it's one of the brand's most original creations.

Manno also admired it from a culinary perspective, calling it "a fascinating textural study." He noted that the combination of crispy rice, chewy caramel and chocolate creates multiple textures in every bite, making it a standout among packaged treats.

What Is the Bestselling Little Debbie Snack of All Time?

Courtesy Julie Andrews

The title of Little Debbie's bestselling snack belongs to the Oatmeal Crème Pie, and after talking with these chefs, that result isn't surprising. As the brand's first snack, introduced in the 1960s, it's become an iconic favorite, with reportedly 200 million cartons sold in the U.S. each year.

Alpers appreciates that the cookie sandwiches rely on "strong flavors from real ingredients" instead of overwhelming sweetness. Fiorentino praised the soft oatmeal cookies and generous vanilla-marshmallow crème, while Ramsdell called them one of the most balanced products in the lineup thanks to their "warm cinnamon and molasses notes."

Taken together, the interviews reveal that chefs value many of the same qualities everyday fans do. Whether it's the crisp layers of a Nutty Buddy, the festive fun of Birthday Cakes, the airy bite of Zebra Cakes or the comforting chew of an Oatmeal Crème Pie, these snacks have become lasting symbols of childhood.

That may be Little Debbie's greatest achievement. Long after lunchboxes have been packed away, these familiar treats continue to remind people that sometimes the most memorable desserts aren't the fanciest — they're the ones that taste like home.

Related: The 9 Childhood Snacks You Grew Up Eating That Were Quietly Banned

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There’s no better time than summer to embrace the coastal grandmother aesthetic. Relaxed and posh, it’s a trend that captures the essence of beachside living — think: breezy linen clothes, rattan furniture, and ocean-inspired motifs. If you want to incorporate this aesthetic into your everyday wardrobe, you should look for pieces that feel beachy and radiate quiet luxury, like this Cultured Freshwater Pearl Necklace and Earrings Set at Macy’s. 

Thanks to Macy’s Black Friday in July sales event, you won’t have to splurge to give your look a touch of coastal luxury. Right now, you can score this pearl jewelry set on sale for a whopping 75% off! It’s available in both gold and silver. Normally retailing for $200, the gold style is now marked down to just $50. The silver version normally retails for $225, but you can score it on sale during this limited-time event for $56.

Cultured Freshwater Pearl Necklace and Earrings Set, From $50 (was $200) at Macy’s

Courtesy of Macy's

Shop at Macy's

Oozing with coastal grandmother vibes, this pendant necklace and earrings set will instantly add elegant, summer-ready appeal to any outfit. Worn together, they can make even the simplest of outfits look more intentional and put-together. However, you can also get creative and style them separately with other pieces in your jewelry collection. 

Both the earrings and the pendant feature one large pearl as the main focal point. Because they’re cultured freshwater pearls, they have natural charm and may slightly vary in appearance, which only adds to their beauty. The size of the pearl can range between 7.5 millimeters and 8.5 millimeters. 

The pearls are understated enough for everyday wear but still stand out with any outfit. One reviewer stated that “the pearls have a soft shine that adds just the right touch without feeling too dressy.” They also mentioned that this set is “perfect for everyday elegance.”

For an additional touch of luxury, the pendant and earrings are accented with a cubic zirconia crystal above the pearl. The crystals are prong-set, ensuring that they remain in place. Cubic zirconia is a great affordable alternative to diamonds, as they share the same appearance, mimicking the brilliance and clarity of the real deal. These crystals are faceted, allowing them to catch light from various angles and deliver plenty of sparkle. 

Cultured Freshwater Pearl Necklace and Earrings Set, From $50 (was $200) at Macy’s

Courtesy of Macy's

Shop at Macy's

Shoppers love the appearance of this jewelry set, describing it as “beautiful,” “elegant,” and “classy.” A second customer said that this set makes them feel like they’re “wearing treasure.” They also mentioned that it’s “dainty” and “timeless.”

The necklace pendant dangles from a delicate box link chain. Measuring 18 inches long, the necklace falls right underneath the collarbone, highlighting your décolletage. The chain is complete with a spring-ring clasp to keep the necklace securely fastened. Lightweight and comfortable, the earrings have a post backing and are held secure by standard butterfly backings. 

Made of sterling silver, this jewelry set is hypoallergenic and nickel-free, making it a great choice for those with sensitive skin. To give the gold necklace and earrings their color, it’s set with 18-karat gold. 

Shop More Deals 

• Adornia Chain Toggle Pearl Bracelet, $17 (was $25) at Macy’s
• Cultured Freshwater Pearl Ring, $70 (was $175) at Macy’s
• 3-Piece Interchangeable Pendant Pearl Necklace, $48 (was $200) at Macy’s

Related: Macy’s 'Breezy' 100% Linen Top Is 'Perfect for Summer' and Comes in 17 Gorgeous Colors

Add a touch of coastal luxury to your everyday life with the Cultured Freshwater Pearl Necklace and Earrings Set. Head to Macy’s and snag it while it’s still on sale for as low as $50 during its Black Friday in July event! 

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.

Nearly four decades after George Michael's legendary Faith Tour captivated audiences around the world, previously unreleased concert footage from the career-defining tour is finally making its way to the big screen. 

Universal Pictures Content Group and Bleecker Street's Crosswalk have announced George Michael: The Faith Tour, a new concert film featuring restored footage from two performances in Paris during the European leg of Michael's iconic 1988 tour. The performances were captured on 35mm film but have remained unseen by the public…until now.

According to a press release announcing the project, it also includes Finding Faith, a companion short film featuring an unheard interview with George Michael, previously unseen photographs by legendary photographer Herb Ritts, and behind-the-scenes footage from the "Faith" music video.

The announcement arrives as fans continue to celebrate one of the most influential chapters of Michael's career. Released in 1987, Faith transformed the former Wham! frontman into one of pop music's biggest solo stars. The album sold more than 25 million copies worldwide, earned the Grammy Award for Album of the Year, and produced four Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 singles, including "Faith," "Father Figure," "One More Try," and "Monkey."

Alongside the film, George Michael Entertainment and Sony Music Entertainment will also release The Faith Tour, an 18-track live album featuring previously unreleased recordings from the tour, including performances of both his solo hits and songs from his Wham! catalog.

The film was directed by longtime George Michael collaborators Andy Morahan and David Austin and is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release later this year, with exclusive early-access IMAX screenings planned in North America.

"George at the height of the Faith tour was simply electrifying," Helen Parker, Executive Vice President of Universal Pictures Content Group, said in a press release statement. "We can't wait for a whole new generation to experience just how extraordinary he was as a creative force, performer and musical auteur."

Faith, the 1987 album at the center of the film, remains a landmark in Michael's catalog: it earned him a Grammy for Album of the Year. It produced four U.S. No. 1 singles, a feat that still makes him the only British male solo artist in history to pull off that particular chart record from a single album. This film offers the opportunity to revisit one of George Michael's most celebrated eras. And for a new generation of music lovers, it also promises an introduction to the performances that helped cement his place as one of pop music's greatest icons.

It's been more than six years since The Big Bang Theory ended and a new spinoff has just premiered on HBO Max. Stuart Fails to Save the Universe follows a storyline centered around Stuart Bloom (played by Kevin Sussman) as he embarks on a quest to restore reality "after he breaks a device built by Sheldon [Cooper] and Leonard [Hofstadter]," according to Deadline.

Stuart Fails to Save the Universe may not star many of the original series' main characters, but it does revisit a world that longtime fans know well. And many hoped there'd be some surprises—by way of character cameos—along the way.

Warning: Spoilers ahead.

The premiere of SFTSTU aired on Thursday, July 23, and already delivered. Actor Kunal Nayyar reprised his role as Rajesh Koothrappali—though he looked very different with long hair and a full mustache and beard.

Stuart teams up with his ex-girlfriend, Denise, and geologist Bert Kibbler in an effort to find a device that will save reality. Along the way, the bump into Raj—though he's not technically the same Raj from TBBT. He's some alternate universe Raj—but he's still quite funny.

“I think they’ll be really surprised at how different it is from The Big Bang Theory. It’s a completely different vibe and type of show, but I do think that the humor that they appreciated in the first series will translate here and they’ll be able to enjoy it," actress Lauren Lapkus, who plays Denise, told People magazine. "And there’s also lots of Easter eggs and cameos and guest stars and things that they’ll be very excited about.”

"I’m just thinking about Kunal’s appearance. His first appearance is so funny and fun and so different from the show. I just think people will love that," she added.

SFTSTU will air weekly on HBO Max, though some episodes will be rather short. More cameos are expected in the coming weeks, though the details have been kept under lock and key. Parade previously askedKaley Cuoco if she’d be interested in making an appearance on SFTSTU and she said she'd totally be down.

It's hard to imagine a woman as successful as Oprah Winfrey having many career regrets. After building a talk show empire that led to an unmatched media dynasty, especially as a wrongfully discounted Black woman, there is very little the media matriarch has gotten wrong. And yet, Winfrey opened up onKeke Palmer's podcast, Baby, This is Keke Palmer, about one regret she certainly holds after the actress playfully brought it up during their chat.

"I think I'm gonna run on," Palmer jokingly prodded her while cackling, referencing Winfrey's brief singing stint. The talk show host famously sang her own intro for a period, performing a rendition of the beloved gospel tune "Run On."

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"Girl, please,” Winfrey joked back with Palmer. “That is one of the mistakes of my career.”

Despite Palmer's polite protests, Winfrey stood her ground on her self-reflection.

“It is a mistake,” Winfrey insisted. “So what happened was — what had happened was — I was trying to decide, am I gonna end the show or not end the show? And then I had a little talk with Jesus, and Jesus said, 'You gotta keep going.' And so I said, 'You know, there’s this song. It’s an old spiritual...'”

She confessed, upon reflection, that she couldn't sing, even though producers tried to back her up with a gospel choir—a strategy Palmer noted was usually effective.

"It didn't work this time," Winfrey joked.

Fans of both Palmer and Winfrey loved the callback and praised both women for their lighthearted exchange.

"Talk about a DYNAMIC DUO.. Whew! I love them together. Two powerhouses! Born different years but SAME profound story. They remind us of our greatness, our sisterhood, & our intrinsic joy," wrote actor Asha Kamali Blankinship.

"That 'Girl' was everything coming from Oprah," joked one fan.

Palmer's playful jab also reminded fans of Whitney Houston's famous talk show appearances, when the late superstar gently teased Winfrey about her vocals.

"Whitney would have loved this," added another commenter.

Related: Oprah Winfrey Once Pulled a Wild TV Stunt in 1988 That Would Never Fly Today

Oprah's Brief Singing Career

Despite Winfrey calling her singing moment a "mistake," it wasn't the only time she dusted off her pipes in public. During an appearance on Harry, Winfrey and host Harry Connick Jr. talked about their daily prayers, and she shared her personal mantra:

“You know what my prayer is? My prayer is, ‘Use me.’ I used to pray that prayer every day… When you pray that prayer, you will be met with the answer,” she said, going on to discuss how desperately she wanted to be in the movie The Color Purple and how faith helped her land the role.

"I had been told that I wasn't going to be in the film. I had gone away, and I was running around the track one day, and I was just praying," she revealed. "... I had been praying, and I started singing this song, and then I got a call saying Steven Spielberg wants you to be in his office tomorrow morning," The Christian Post reported.

At the end of the show, she performed the hymn "I Surrender All," and while it may not have been a Grammy-winning performance, it still struck a deep chord with audiences.

Stormtroopers of Death may have emerged as Anthrax's side project, but the all-star band left an unforgettable legacy, earning recognition as one of the best supergroups of all time.

Louder Sound named the 10 heavy metal supergroups that lived up to the hype and left a lasting impact.

Interestingly, S.O.D. joined the elite list alongside fellow metal heavyweights The Damned Things, Fantômas, Bloodbath, Nailbomb and more.

The publication also praised the supergroup's iconic album Speak English or Die as a "masterpiece in mixing thrash and hardcore punk."

Formed in 1985, the four-piece band was created during the recording sessions for Anthrax's second studio album, Spreading the Disease.

The heavy metal band's guitarist Scott Ian, drummer Charlie Benante and bassist Dan Lilker joined forces with vocalist Billy Milano, who later formed M.O.D., to create the crossover thrash band.

Scott Ian of Anthrax and former Stormtroopers of Death vocalist in London, Ontario (2016)

Stormtroopers of Death officially made its debut in August 1985 with the release of Speak English or Die, which the band recorded in just three days.

The album became a commercial success, selling over one million copies worldwide.

Its popular instrumental track, "March of the S.O.D.," gained even greater recognition after it was used as the opening theme for MTV's Headbangers Ball.

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In addition, the album featured several standout tracks, including "Milano Mosh," "Kill Yourself," "United Forces" and "Milk."

Despite staying sporadic inactive for 14 years due to the conflicting schedules of the members with their primary bands, S.O.D. made a comeback in 1999 with its second and final full-length reunion album, Bigger Than the Devil.

Still showcasing its signature sound, the band supported the album's release with performances at major festivals and a series of headlining shows for the Bigger Than the Devil tour.

Unfortunately, the band's run came to an end after S.O.D. officially disbanded in 2007.

Reflecting on the split, Ian recalled that what began as a side project eventually felt more like a "job" than a passion project.

Speaking to Mammoth Metal TV, Ian stated about his time with S.O.D.: "I've only really fond memories of anything I've done with S.O.D. That being said, I just felt like we did too much,” he told Mammoth Metal TV as cited by Blabbermouth. “For me, it's something that was always something very, very near and dear to my heart, something that I've always carried very close to the vest, as they say.”

Despite their relatively brief run, Stormtroopers of Death left a lasting mark, cementing their legacy as one of metal's most influential supergroups.​

Related: ’90s Metal Band Announces New Album 32 Years After Debut

Meghan, Duchess of Sussex has posted a brand-new carousel of family photos on Instagram with the caption "Summer Holiday," and among the several new photos was one of Meghan, Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex and their children, Prince Archie of Sussex and Princess Lilibet of Sussex visiting Althorp, the childhood home of the late Diana, Princess of Wales.

The photo shows Harry, Archie and Lilibet walking down a grassy path on the estate from behind—which is often how photos of the children are shared on Meghan's Instagram, no doubt to protect their identities—and seemingly holding bouquets of flowers. Because of that detail in particular, many are speculating that, in addition to visiting living Spencer relatives, Meghan, Harry and their children may have paid a visit to Princess Diana's final resting place, which is located on the property.

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This post comes on the heels of confirmation that all four Sussex family members spent time back in the United Kingdom, where Archie and Lilibet have not been since they were considerably younger. This visit also saw the little prince and princess, alongside Harry and Meghan, visit their grandfather, King Charles III, which had likewise not happened in years. For many royal watchers, this update suggests that King Charles and Prince Harry may be on their way to reconciliation after years of separation.

Sadly, reports did not indicate that brothers Prince Harry and William, Prince of Wales saw one another, suggesting that their years-long schism is ongoing. However, Meghan's photos seem to show the Sussexes still enjoying their time visiting what was once Prince Harry's home country.

The carousel shows some other adorable family shots in addition to images from their Althorp visit, including an image of Prince Harry in ultimate dad mode, tossing Lilibet into a pool with some classic, playful paternal roughhousing.

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Midlife travel might just be the absolute best chapter yet. Forget being everyone else’s event coordinator—this is your time for solo getaways, empty-nest adventures, or finally booking that milestone trip with your best friends. And let’s be honest: no one has time to be weighed down by heavy checked luggage anymore. You want smart, breezy travel essentials that lighten your load and keep you comfortable—whether you're navigating a busy airport terminal or strolling through a cobblestone village.

As a frequent traveler who’s right on the edge of 50, I’ve come to rely on a handful of go-to brands for breathable, durable, "stealth-wealth" carry-on finds—and Quince is at the absolute top of my list. Not only is the brand effortlessly chic (fitting in everywhere from a Caribbean cruise to a European 'coolcation'), but its direct-to-consumer approach means you get high-end designer quality at a fraction of the price.

Quince has seriously leveled up its travel game lately, to the point where practically my entire bag is packed with their pieces. Here are 8 essentials every woman over 50 needs to toss in her carry-on!

Related: 87% of My Travel Wardrobe Is Quince—Here's What I Pack on Every Trip

Transit Quilted Duffle Bag

Quince

Quince has a few fantastic personal item contenders, but this one takes the crown for its sheer roominess—honestly, photos don't do justice to how much it actually holds! The quilted, water-resistant design is super chic, and it’s packed with smart interior and exterior pockets to keep all your essentials organized. Navigating airports is a breeze thanks to the sturdy top handles, comfortable shoulder strap, and handy trolley sleeve. Plus, the dedicated shoe compartment is a total game-changer for stash-and-go packing, especially when you're bringing home a few extra travel souvenirs!

Shop it at Quince!

Related: I Went on a Mediterranean Cruise With Just a Carry-on—These 8 Quince Pieces Let Me Blend in Like a Local

Water Repellent Windbreaker Jacket

This is my ultimate go-to windbreaker for practically every season. It keeps me bone-dry during afternoon tropical downpours and layers well over puffers when the temperature drops. Plus, the sleek monochrome finish and chic stand-up collar give it a high-fashion edge—making it stylish enough to double as an evening jacket for dressier nights out.

Shop it at Quince!Italian Leather Phone Crossbody Case

Quince

This Italian-leather crossbody is my ultimate TSA cheat code. I always wear it through long security lines so I can scan my digital boarding pass hands-free while keeping my passport ready in the other. On trips, it's a total one-and-done staple thanks to the handy card slots on the back—perfect for carrying your hotel room key or sail card without lugging around a full wallet. Plus, when you're out sightseeing, it keeps your phone right at your fingertips so you can snap photos on the fly without unzipping your main bag every five minutes!

Shop it at Quince!

Related: Best Quince Travel Sets to Look Polished and Stay Comfy on Flights

100% Washable Silk Drawstring Wide Leg Pants Quince silk pants in navy blue

Quince

Travel pants are the ultimate travel staple in my opinion because they can really make or break your comfort on long-haul flights, double as lounge pants during your trip, and can be worn a second time on the way back. I've tried almost all of Quince's lounge pants for this purpose—from their ultra soft flowknits to fleece to European linen—and all work well, but I recently was clued into silk pants for travel and I'm never going back. The ultimate in comfort and wearability in different climates, these not only double as lounge pants but can be worn out at night, too, in your destination. And did I mention they're washable?

Shop it at Quince!Quince Expandable Carry-On

I’ve been testing Quince Carry-Ons for a while now, and I fully get why they keep winning awards. Out of all the top luggage brands, these hold the absolute most, the polycarbonate shell is durable enough to resist scuffs, and the wheels glide effortlessly over any surface—even when totally overpacked! I love the small size for weekend getaways, but the expanded carry-on is my go-to for week-long (or even two-week!) trips. Plus, they’ve released the dreamiest seasonal colors lately—I am head-over-heels for Amalfi Yellow and am seriously manifesting a coastal Mediterranean getaway just to show it off!

Shop it at Quince!Italian Cami One-Piece Swimsuit Black Bathing Suit

Quince

This swimsuit is seriously so much more versatile and supportive than you’d ever expect. I take it on almost every trip because it's such an easy, chic staple—it even doubles as a body suit for travel days that start lounging by the pool and transition seamlessly to sunset patio drinks. The cut is super flattering (nothing sits too high or too low!), and it holds up beautifully in the wash, even after multiple wears and washes.

Shop it at Quince!Eco Compression Cubes

Quince

These compression cubes have been my constant go-to for about two years now. While I’ve tried plenty of other brands, I keep coming back to Quince because of their sheer durability, super smooth fabric, and ease of use—the zippers always glide shut without a fight! Unlike other sets that feel cheap, flimsy, or overly technical, these slide effortlessly into almost any bag configuration. Plus, even on trips where I don't need maximum compression, they're a total game-changer for keeping everything neat and organized, both in transit and at the hotel!

Shop it at Quince!

Related: I’m Heading to Nantucket This Summer—These 8 Affordable Quince Staples Help Me Nail Preppy Coastal Style

SPOILER ALERT! This article contains events from the Big Brother 28 live feeds that have yet to be aired on the television episodes. Please don't read ahead if you prefer not to know competition winners and nominees ahead of time.

Rome has officially fallen in the Big Brother house! Last week was one for the books, with Rick Devens' nomination ceremony becoming one of the most chaotic and dramatic in the show's history. Dirty laundry was aired, games were outed, and arguments were had in egg detective costumes. But, with a big player (and one-half of the season's primary showmance) gone, what does this week have in store for us?

Here's everything you need to know about this week on Big Brother 27, including Head of Household and veto winners, nominees, and who is likely to go.

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Who is Head of Household on Big Brother 28 this week?Kamu Kirk

The Toolshed continues its wrench-like grip on the game! Kamu took home his first competition win of the season, as the MMA fighter landed an HoH TKO.

Who was nominated this week on Big Brother 28?

Check back on Friday to see who has been nominated for eviction this week.

Related: ‘Big Brother 28’ Cast Includes Famous Relatives, Reality Stars and More Unexpected Connections

Who won the Veto this week on Big Brother 28?

Check back on Saturday to find out who won the Power of Veto this week.

Was the Veto used this week on Big Brother 28?

Check back on Monday to find out whether the Veto was used this week.

Related: ‘Big Brother 28’ Cast Name Their Favorite Players — and One Has a Shocking Connection Outside of the House (Exclusive)

Who will be evicted this week on Big Brother 28?

Check back on Tuesday or Wednesday to find out who will be voted out this week.

Are there any twists this week on Big Brother 28?

Yes! We'll have yet another vote for the "BB Time Capsule" this week. The full list of available powers and punishments will be revealed on Big Brother: Unlocked, airing on Friday on CBS.

Related: Ashley Trail Reacts to the Real Reason Behind Her 'Big Brother 28' Eviction: 'I Hate It' (Exclusive)

Jennifer Lopez, whom many consider the "queen of dance pop" and who once portrayed "queen of Tejano music" Selena Quintanilla, just turned 57.

On Friday, July 24, Lopez officially celebrated her 57th birthday. She was born to Guadalupe Rodríguez and David Lopez in the Bronx, N.Y., on July 24, 1969. The "Jenny From the Block" singer grew up with two siblings, an older sister, Leslie Ann Lopez, and a younger sister, Lynda Lopez.

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In the '90s, J.Lo was a backup dancer on the sketch comedy series In Living Color. She launched into superstardom after portraying Quintanilla—widely known as the "queen of Tejano"—in the 1997 biopic Selena. In 1995, the "Dreaming of You" star was shot and killed at 23 by Yolanda Saldívar, an employee who was the president of her fan club.

"I soaked up everything, I watched every interview that I could," Lopez said on Apple Music's Beats 1 radio show in 2019, per ABC News, of preparing for Selena. "I slept in her bed at home. I talked to the whole family. I spent time with them. It can be melancholy and beautiful at the same time."

In 1999, Lopez released her first hit song, "If You Had My Love." She went on to churn out a string of dance pop hits that included "Waiting for Tonight," "Love Don't Cost a Thing," "Let's Get Loud," "Get Right," "On the Floor," and "Dance Again."

Additionally, Lopez starred in several rom-com films in the 2000s: The Wedding Planner (2001), Maid in Manhattan (2002), and Monster-in-Law (2005).

During a 2023 Ellecover story, Lopez reflected on aging.

“As you get older and you have more experience, you become a richer human being, and you have more to offer," she shared. "The idea of ‘There’s nothing really valuable about watching a woman over 30’ is so ridiculous, it’s the opposite of right. It just makes me laugh.”

Lopez continued, “People have realized that women just get sexier as they get older. They get more learned and more rich with character. All of that is very beautiful and attractive, and not just physically, but on the inside, the beauty that you gain as you get older, the wisdom you gain.”

Today, she is a mother of twins, Emme and Max, 18, whom she shares with her ex-husband, Marc Anthony. Lopez's other ex-husbands include Ojani Noa, Cris Judd, and Ben Affleck.

Happy birthday, J.Lo!

Next: Country Music Icon With 3 Grammys & 49 No. 1 Hits Turns 59

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A comfy pair of sandals is essential for any summer wardrobe. If you're been searching for a stylish yet supportive option that pairs easily with all your warm-weather outfits, Walmart's latest shoe find is worth checking out. The bestselling Ecetana Slide Sandals are currently on sale for over 40% off, and they have a sleek, casual-chic design that's easy to dress up or down for various occasions.   

Available in sizes 5 to 11 (including select half sizes), the top-rated slip-in sandals are now marked down to as low as $17, down from $29, in the classic black color. They also come in apricot, brown, and gold styles for just $20.  

Ecetana Slide Sandals, From $17 (was $29) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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These popular sandals feature a cushioned footbed that's soft, supportive, and designed for all-day comfort, with a wide, padded toe strap that prevents friction or irritation. They’re made of durable synthetic leather and have subtle perforated detailing on both the strap and footbed, enhancing ventilation and keeping your feet cool even on hot summer days. 

Featuring an open rounded toe and an easy slip-in design, these sandals have a lightweight, airy feel that's ideal for casual summer wear, beach vacations, and outdoor gatherings. The criss-cross V-strap has a chic gold buckle with a convenient hook loop that you can adjust to your preferred fit, while the non-slip 1.1-inch heels adds a slight lift while also providing extra traction. 

Related: Walmart's 'Pretty' and 'Stretchy' $12 Chiffon T-Shirt Has the Cutest Ruffle Sleeves and Comes in 8 Colors

The "sleek" Ecetana sandals are well-loved among Walmart shoppers, with over 125 five-star ratings.  Several highlighted the ultra-soft footbed and “cushioned sole,” with one noting that it's "very comfortable to wear all day." Another buyer highlighted their "super cute" and "comfy" look, while a third noted that they bought them for the adjustable strap, which helps accommodate their swelling feet.

Shop More Deals

• Burudani Soft Cushion Flip-Flops, $13 (was $39) at Walmart
• Ecetana Women's Flat Sandals, $20 (was $26) at Walmart
• Comwarm Flip-Flops, $13 (was $28) at Walmart

If you're looking for a pair of easy throw-on-and-go sandals that you'll wear on repeat all summer long, these stylish slides tick all the right boxes. They're supportive, easy to dress up or down, and come in four classic colors that go with practically anything. Don't hesitate to grab a pair while they're marked down to as low as $17 at Walmart. 

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It was the ultimate case of rock-and-roll mistaken identity.

In 1984, the driving rock song "On the Dark Side" tore up the airwaves, boasting a gravelly vocal and energetic rhythm so characteristic of Bruce Springsteen that even many music fans were fooled. In reality, the song by John Cafferty & The Beaver Brown Band was the centerpiece of an ambitious musical movie, Eddie and the Cruisers, that had just bombed in theaters one year prior.

Yet, despite the film's fast fade from the box office, the track refused to go quietly. What started as a soundtrack song soon took on a life of its own, skyrocketing up the charts to become an enduring '80s favorite.

Based on a book by P.F. Kluge, the feature film Eddie and the Cruisers told the story of a popular rock star who mysteriously disappeared. According to American Songwriter, the film's producers had the song's title, but no music or lyrics.

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Producers talked to former Jay and the Americans member Kenny Vance, who suggested John Cafferty & The Beaver Brown Band to write and record the tune. At the time, Cafferty was already a star of the East Coast rock scene.

What he came back with was a high-octane anthem about chasing life into the unknown. Its lyrics speak of living fast, feeling deeply, and refusing to play it safe.

However, the song really didn't get traction until months later, when Eddie and the Cruisers made its cable television debut. Almost one year after the film's release, "On the Dark Side" reached a peak position of No. 7.

"What happened was, the movie came out and that was the end of it," Kenny Vance, Eddie and the Cruisers music supervisor, told Songfacts. "And about a year later, Cafferty and I were working on his second album"

He continued, "We got a phone call from Columbia that said, 'You just sold 25,000 albums today.' What are you talking about? They said, Eddie and the Cruisers."

Vance concluded, "When HBO first went on the air, they would play a movie for a month in rotation, like, you'd see it seven times a day. And it became a smash, and we were stunned. When the movie came out, it bombed. We were very, very lucky with that, and wound up selling almost 4 million albums."

The song's striking resemblance in sound and lyrics to Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band provided an extra boost, particularly as Born in the U.S.A. took over the airwaves in the summer of ’84.

Eddie and the Cruisers may have stumbled at the box office, but John Cafferty and The Beaver Brown Band's "On the Dark Side" proved that a great rock song always finds its audience. The track outlived the movie that created it, and carved out its own permanent place in '80s radio history.

Related: 1980 Goosebump-Inducing Country Rock Classic Wasn't Intended to Be a Hit—But Defined The Eagles' Final Era

Ashley Greene and Peter Facinelli brought a little bit of Forks, Washington to San Diego Comic-Con International this week, reuniting nearly two decades after Twilight first hit theaters.

The two former costars, who played vampire family members Alice and Carlisle Cullen in the blockbuster franchise, teamed up for a panel titled "Bite Me: Calling All Vampires" on July 23. The event drew a crowd of nostalgic fans eager to relive the franchise's early cultural moment, decked out in convention gear alongside plenty of Twilight-themed merchandise and cosplay.

Twilight first premiered in 2008, based on Stephenie Meyer's best-selling novel series, and went on to spawn four sequels released between 2009 and 2012. The franchise grossed well over a billion dollars worldwide and became a defining piece of 2000s pop culture, launching Greene, Facinelli, and their castmates, including Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson, and Taylor Lautner, into a level of fame that has followed them for years.

Both actors have continued working steadily since the franchise wrapped. Greene has taken on a variety of film and television roles since her time as Alice Cullen, while Facinelli has remained active in both acting and directing. Despite their busy schedules, panels like this one offer a rare chance for fans to see members of the original cast reconnect in person, away from the more scripted setting of a press junket or premiere.

Comic-Con has increasingly become a hub for these kinds of nostalgic reunions in recent years, drawing casts from beloved franchises back together for panels, photo ops, and fan Q&As.

Neither Greene nor Facinelli has announced any further joint appearances following the panel, but their reunion is already generating buzz among longtime fans on social media, many of whom are hoping it signals more nostalgic team-ups to come from the rest of the Twilight cast in the years ahead.

A locked bathroom door, string lights, and a portable speaker once formed Evan Rachel Wood's only line of defense against nights she knew would be bad. In a new interview with podcast host Andrew Gold, the actress described the moment she realized the man she loved and the persona he performed for cameras were not the same person.

Wood told Gold that preparation for any public appearance inside the home she shared with Brian Warner, known professionally as Marilyn Manson, followed a frightening pattern. She said he would go on what she called "narcissistic rants," berating everyone around him whenever he had to put on his stage persona. She locked herself in the bathroom so often during these episodes that she decorated the room with string lights and music, hoping that staying out of sight meant staying out of his focus.

She said Manson would wreck the house and yell at people during these outbursts. Then, right before he had to go on camera, she described watching him transform. His eyes went dark, she said, and then "you saw him slip into the Marilyn Manson persona." Wood said the shift left her questioning every calm, articulate interview he had ever given, wondering what was happening behind the scenes and whether any of it was real. She later connected the experience to concepts she encountered while studying narcissism and psychopathy, describing what she witnessed as watching a mask fall into place.

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/heZohRlIV2c

The interview arrives after a public reckoning that began in February 2021, when Wood publicly named Manson as her abuser after previously describing being assaulted by a "significant other" in 2016. She detailed her allegations further in the HBO documentary "Phoenix Rising," which chronicled her decision to go public and her push for California's Phoenix Act, legislation she helped write with state senator Susan Rubio to extend the statute of limitations for domestic violence cases.

Related: Carmen Electra Just Revealed Prince's Nightly Request

Manson has consistently denied Wood's allegations. In March 2022, he sued her for defamation, alleging she and a former partner orchestrated a campaign to brand him a rapist and abuser. A judge struck much of the suit in 2023 under California's anti-SLAPP statute, and in November 2024, Manson dropped the case entirely, agreeing to pay Wood roughly $327,000 in attorneys' fees.

Wood was one of at least 15 women who came forward with misconduct allegations against Manson, several of whom reached separate settlements with him in the years since. Her latest conversation with Gold revisits that history as more or less a case study in how private cruelty can coexist with a carefully managed public image.

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One thing to know about us is that we love Drew Barrymore's home collection at Walmart. The actress has really nailed down modern furniture on a budget, including this beautiful kitchen tool set, gorgeous teddy accent chair, and chic sofa that's perfect for small spaces. Now, we're adding the Beautiful by Drew Barrymore Velvet Table Lamp to our online carts while it's 40% off in clearance.

The lamp originally cost $35, but has been reduced to just $21 in the green colorway. The bestselling piece, which is already in over 25 customer carts, is also available in a pretty light pink hue that's not on sale, for $40. Considering both colors are still extremely affordable, you may even want to consider buying each for separate rooms (or the same room, if you love pops of color!). 

Beautiful by Drew Barrymore Velvet Table Lamp, $21 (was $35) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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The lamp is 11.8 inches long, 11.8 inches wide, and 19 inches tall. If you plan on putting it on a small surface, we advise measuring the tabletop first to ensure that it fits properly. The design features a softly rounded shape (similar to the mushroom lamps that are trending right now), and polished gold metal accents that take the style from cool to effortlessly chic. There's a soft velvet exterior that will add texture to any space. 

To turn it on and off, all you have to do is press the button on the cord. If you already know your placement, check to make sure that there is a plug nearby — you can always plug it into a surge protector for extra length. The piece has a felt bottom that prevents it from slipping on any surface. The piece has an incandescent light bulb that will add warmth to the room with ease. 

Related: Walmart's 'Gorgeous' Reversible Comforter Set 'Feels Like Butter,' and It's Just $32

Shoppers described the style as "so pretty," "mid-century modern," "beautiful," "luxurious," "classy," "good-quality," and "very eloquent." Another reviewer wrote, "It gives off a nice soft glow at night," with another adding that it's the "perfect addition" to their living room. Plus, according to customers, it's "well-made" and well-packaged upon arrival. 

Shop More Deals 

• BGTrend 7-Tier Narrow Shoe Rack, $22 (was $36) at Walmart
• HiJob Extendable Dining Table, $84 (was $140) at Walmart
• Rogalis Accent Chair, $157 (was $200) at Walmart

If you're looking for a budget-friendly lighting option that actually elevates your space, this stunning Drew Barrymore velvet lamp is it. It's also perfect for dorms due to its smaller sizing, should you be on the hunt for family-friendly decor. Shop it now while it's just $21 at Walmart!

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It may only be July, but holiday planning is officially underway. Marriott International has just revealed its 2026 lineup for its signature holiday ice attraction, ice!,—and it’s bringing two of the most iconic Christmas franchises of all time to life.

The acclaimed frozen experience created by Gaylord Hotels has become a festive must-do for families since launching in 2001, welcoming tens of millions of visitors from all over the world. And for 2026, it’s returning bigger—and merrier—than ever.

Related: Disneyland Reveals Its Fall Line-Up

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The highlight of the immersive, story-driven experience features more than two million pounds of breathtaking ice sculptures that bring to life cherished holiday classics and beloved characters.

These large-scale, floor-to-ceiling scenes are created by renowned master artisans from Harbin Ice Festival in China who are tasked with hand carving 60,000 ice blocks using technique passed down through generations. Each experience features more than 10 scenes, two-story ice slides and many photo worthy moments along the way. It's designed for the entire family and takes around 20 to 40 minutes to experience.

Related: Disney Has Dropped Its Holiday Cruise Details

And this year marks several updates, including new this year themes of “Harry Potter,” “Home Alone” and “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas.” "Harry Potter" will welcome visitors to explore the icy Forbidden Forest, take photos with the Sorting Hat, race down an ice slide to the Quiddditch pitch and more.

Additionally, the event will expand to eight resorts, with ice! making its debut at Gaylord Pacific San Diego and JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge. The event returns to JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort and Gaylord Hotels nationwide, including Gaylord Opryland Resort in Nashville.

“We are excited to bring our signature Christmas attraction, ice!, to Arizona and California,” shared Johann Krieger, regional vice president of Marriott International, in a press release. “Having welcomed tens of millions of guests over the years, this beloved holiday tradition continues to capture the spirit of the season, and we are proud to introduce our largest footprint to date, giving even more families the opportunity to experience how our resorts create extraordinary holiday memories.”

Related: Disney Parks Fans Won't Want To Miss This New Documentary

Additionally, resorts are transformed with “So Much Christmas” making the ultimate holiday getaway with the addition of festive décor throughouht, including millions of twinkling lights, live stage shows, Christmas villages, photos with Santa Claus and much more.

Highlights for 2026 include five brand-new themed experiences alongside two debut resort locations. Visitors to the new Gaylord Pacific Resort in Chula Vista, California, can step into "A Charlie Brown Christmas," while the JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort makes its debut with "Elf." Elsewhere across the country, new lineups feature "Harry Potter" at Gaylord Texan Resort, "Home Alone" at Nashville’s Gaylord Opryland Resort, and "Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas" at Gaylord Rockies Resort.

Festive staples are also back for another run, including "How the Grinch Stole Christmas!" at Gaylord National Resort in Maryland, "The Polar Express" at Florida’s Gaylord Palms Resort, and "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" at JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort. All locations run from mid-November through January 3, 2027.

You can book special early packages or purchase tickets here.

Related: Disney Just Dropped Its Holiday Cruise Details—and the Lineup Is Pure Magic

Elton John was among the biggest names in pop music in 1976—but a duet with Kiki Dee, a timeless anthem and one of the most joyful songs of his career, was written under secret pseudonyms. And it hit No. 1 50 years ago today.

On July 24, 1976, “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart” reached the top spot on the U.K. Singles Chart, marking John’s first No. 1 at home. It went on to hit No. 1 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 just two weeks later, on Aug. 7, and stayed there for four weeks straight.

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Interestingly, neither John nor lyricist Bernie Taupin used their real names as co-songwriters of “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart." They instead credited themselves as “Ann Orson” and “Carte Blanche,” respectively. The names were a play on the phrase “a horse and cart.”

The 4-and-a-half-minute track was a tribute to classic ‘60s Motown duets from singers like Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell. One thing that made it unique was that John typically came up with music to fit lyrics that had already been written. Instead, Taupin wrote the words to match a hook that John kept singing. Meanwhile, James Newton Howard played acoustic piano and wrote the string arrangements for the song.

“You know what's interesting about 'Don’t Go Breaking My Heart’?” Dee said during an interview with the Daily Mirror. “It was just going to be an Elton performance with me singing backup vocals. But it was his record producer, Gus Dudgeon, who saw the potential for it to become a duet.”

Related: 1988 Punk Rock Song That Became a Timeless Anthem Debuted 38 Years Ago Today

Additionally, Dee revealed that she and John were not together when they recorded the vocals for “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart.”

“It happens a lot when artists record duets,” she explained. "I mean, Elton was so busy at that time he was probably flying all over the world, so the only way they could get the single together was for him to do his vocal in America.”

Dee continued, “I got a tape of him singing his part himself and then doing my part in a falsetto voice. This is so I knew which bits were mine. I wish I had kept the recording. It has that ‘live’ feeling about it. It doesn’t sound like my vocals are edited in. I guess that’s why I never spoke about how it was made.”

She also described recording the music video for “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart" as “very informal.”

‌“I think we did it in two takes because Elton doesn't like to hang around,” she recalled. (According to the YouTube description of the official music video, however, it was done in just one take.) “We didn't even rehearse it. Remember these were the days before MTV. It was done in case we got a Top of the Pops slot— which I thought we would! So we just chucked a video together not knowing that 50 years on, it would still be out there.”

Next: 1973 Rock Ballad, With an Iconic Improvised Guitar Solo, Hit No. 1 53 Years Ago Today

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In mere hours, I'm boarding a flight to Seoul—the motherland of all things K-beauty, where the skincare aisles are genuinely overwhelming in the best possible way and where people take their glass-skin routines more seriously than most of us take anything.

I've been obsessed with K-beauty for years, the layering philosophy, the ingredient innovation, the absolute commitment to hydration above all else. But before I land and immediately disappear into a seven-story beauty store, I wanted to know what the actual experts think about Korean face masks specifically.

Because Korean face masks are their own universe. It's not just sheet masks anymore—it's hydrogel masks, sleeping masks, modeling masks, rubber masks, bubble masks and wrapping masks, each one doing something different and doing it in a way that Western skincare hasn't quite caught up to.

The formulation philosophy is fundamentally different, built around barrier support and layered hydration rather than aggressive treatment. The ingredients come out of the lab faster too—PDRN, fermented filtrates, biocellulose technology—many of which became mainstream in Korea years before they showed up anywhere else.

To find out which masks skincare experts love, we talked to Jessica Manges, ARNP, founder and lead injector at LUX Injectables in Clearwater, Florida; Dr. Marie Jhin, board-certified dermatologist, founder of Premier Aesthetic Dermatology and author of K-Beauty Secrets; and Dr. Danny Guo, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist. Here's what they actually recommend.

Related: We Asked 4 Dermatologists Which Brand New Anti-Aging Product Is Changing the Game—They All Said the Same Thing

Top Korean Face Masks

• Best Korean Face Mask Overall: Biodance Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask
• Best Korean Sheet Mask:Klardie Intensive Sheet Mask
• Best Korean Sleeping Mask:LANEIGE Bouncy & Firm Sleeping Mask
• Best Korean Clay Mask:Innisfree Super Volcanic Pore Mask
• Best Korean Mask for Dry Skin:e.p.t.q. By.Derm Hyaluronic Plus Mask
• Best Korean Mask for Oily Skin:Beauty of Joseon Red Bean Mask
• Best Korean Mask for Sensitive Skin:e.p.t.q. Epitoque Hyaluronic Acid Mask
• Best Korean Brightening Mask:VT Cosmetics PDRN Glow Mask
• Best Affordable Korean Mask:Medicube PDRN Gel Mask
• Best Korean Mask for Acne-Prone Skin:Beplain Mung Bean Mask
• Best Korean Rubber Mask:Dr. Jart+ Cryo Rubber Mask
• Best Korean Bubble Mask:Menokin Collagen Bubble Mask
• Best Korean Wrapping Mask:Celimax Cream Wrapping Mask

What Makes Korean Face Masks Different?

The answer isn't the packaging or the novelty—it's the formulation philosophy. Dr. Jhin, who literally wrote the book on K-beauty, explains that Korean masks are engineered around layering. "Thin, hydrating, ingredient-dense formulas meant to be stacked with the rest of your routine rather than replace it," she says. Where Western masks often stand alone as weekly treatments, Korean masks are designed to fit into a multi-step system.

"Korea has been ahead of the curve with ingredients that became popular years before the U.S., such as PDRN for regeneration, as well as exosomes, polynucleotides, collagen peptides and fermented ingredients." Manges says.

The K-beauty R&D cycle moves faster and iterates more aggressively than most Western labs, which is why ingredients like galactomyces and PDRN were standard in Korean skincare long before they became buzzwords elsewhere.

Related: 9 Korean Skincare Staples Professionals Reach for Again and Again

Different types of Korean face masks

The category is broader than most people realize. There are classic sheet masks—cotton, cellulose, biocellulose or hydrogel sheets that are pre-soaked in essence and are the most recognizable.

Biocellulose specifically, grown from fermented coconut water, hugs facial contours best and holds the most product against skin. Sleeping masks are leave-on gel-cream hybrids applied as the last step at night, functioning as an occlusive seal that reduces water loss while you sleep.

Dr. Guo adds hydrogel masks as their own category, and modeling masks come as a powder that mixes with water into a light clay-like texture. "It was very effective," he says of trying them in Korea, noting the advantage that you can easily cover every corner of the face regardless of shape or size.

And don't forget rubber masks! Dr. Jhin likes them for impressive for at-home use because the occlusive setting environment "dramatically increases penetration of whatever serum sits underneath," which is why estheticians favor them for in-office treatments.

Related: Forget ‘Baby Botox’: This Peptide Hack Is the Secret to Naturally Plumper Skin

What Ingredients Should You Look for in a Korean Face Mask?

It depends on your concern, but the experts are consistent on the standouts. For hydration, Dr. Guo points to glycerin, hyaluronic acid and beta glucan, with collagen also working well in this category. For barrier repair, ceramides are the priority. For calming, centella asiatica, allantoin and panthenol are the go-to trio.

Dr. Jhin adds PDRN, galactomyces ferment filtrate and snail mucin to the list. She says PDRN is "a salmon DNA-derived ingredient gaining real clinical traction for wound healing and regeneration." And snail mucin is "genuinely useful for compromised barriers, not just a novelty ingredient," she says.

Related:11 Best Skin-Tightening Moisturizers, According to Celebrity Derms

How To Use a Korean Face Mask for Best Results

Sequence matters more than most people realize, and the right order depends on the mask type. Dr. Guo's says for hydration-focused masks, use after cleansing and serums. For masks with actives like pigmentation treatments, use after cleansing but before serums. For wrapping masks or hydrogel masks, apply after all other skincare steps at night.

Dr. Jhin adds that applying a thin hydrating toner or essence before a sheet mask helps the essence absorb rather than sitting on dry skin.

After you're done using the mask, don't rinse off excess essence. "Pat it in. This is the step most people skip, and it's often where the real benefit is," she says.

How often you should use a Korean face mask

Dr. Jhin says hydrating sheet masks can be used two to three times per week for most skin types. Sleeping masks can be work nightly or every other night depending on tolerance. Rinse and clay masks should stay at one to two times per week since there are more risks over-stripping the barrier while modeling masks work best weekly or as part of a monthly at-home facial.

The most common mistake she sees? Overusing exfoliating or clay-based masks.

"It compromises the barrier over time and paradoxically increases sensitivity and breakouts," she explains.

13 Best Korean Face Masks for Glowing, Gorgeous Skin

Here's what these skincare experts recommend the most.

Best Overall: Biodance Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask, $9

Amazon

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Both Manges and Dr. Jhin land on Biodance independently, which is the kind of expert consensus that matters. Manges loves it for the ceramides, panthenol and hyaluronic acid that "work to deeply hydrate, strengthen the skin barrier and visibly calm the skin, making it ideal before or after aesthetic treatments for a healthier, glass-skin glow."

Dr. Jhin praises it for hydration that "leaves the skin dewy." Dr. Guo made this category famous by noting it's one of the only masks he's comfortable leaving on for four to six hours.

And at a price-point of under $10, this "best overall" pick is as affordable as it is effective.

Best Sheet Mask: Klardie Intensive Sheet Mask, $12

Amazon

Shop It on Klardie

Manges reaches for this one specifically before events and after treatments. It "instantly plumps dehydrated skin and leaves the complexion looking smoother, calmer, and more radiant," she says.

For anyone who has ever tried to sheet mask their way to better skin before a big occasion, this is the formula that actually delivers on that promise.

Best Sleeping Mask: LANEIGE Bouncy & Firm Sleeping Mask, $36

Amazon

Shop It on Amazon

"You wake up with your skin hydrated," Dr. Jhin says about this powerful K-beauty mask.

The formula functions as an occlusive seal over whatever actives you've layered underneath, reducing water loss while the skin goes through its natural overnight repair cycle. It's one of the most reliable overnight results in the category.

Best Clay Mask: Innisfree Super Volcanic Pore Mask, $16

Sephora

Shop It at Sephora

Manges calls this "the perfect clay mask" for good reason. It "effectively absorbs excess oil, helps clear congested pores, and refines skin texture without excessively stripping and drying out the skin," she says—which is the exact failure mode most clay masks fall into.

For oily and combination skin that needs a weekly reset without the tightness and irritation, this is the formula that gets the balance right.

Best for Dry Skin: e.p.t.q. By.Derm Hyaluronic Plus Mask, $16

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Manges specifically recommends this Korean face mask for chronically dry skin. It "delivers intense, multi-level hydration and helps replenish moisture, making dry, tight skin feel replenished and visibly healthier after only a few uses," she explains.

If your skin feels perpetually thirsty regardless of what moisturizer it's using, a concentrated hydration treatment that works at multiple levels might be what you're looking for.

Best for Oily Skin: Beauty of Joseon Red Bean Mask, $20

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Manges loves this for oily skin because it absorbs excess oil while gently exfoliating with red bean powder. "It leaves the skin feeling balanced, smoother and refreshed without over-drying," she tells Parade.

She also recommends it for acne-prone skin alongside the Beplain pick, noting that it "helps absorb excess sebum and improve the look of texture" without pushing the skin toward the rebound oil production that over-stripping can cause.

Best for Sensitive Skin: e.p.t.q. Epitoque Hyaluronic Acid Mask, $40 for 5

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Manges's pick for reactive skin delivers "deep, soothing hydration that helps support the skin barrier while also being great at calming post-treatment redness without feeling heavy or irritating," she explains.

For skin that has become reactive from over-exfoliation, retinoid initiation or a procedure, a mask that supports recovery rather than challenging the barrier further is exactly what's needed.

Best Brightening: VT Cosmetics PDRN Glow Mask, $28 for 4

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PDRN—the salmon DNA-derived ingredient Dr. Jhin and Manges both flag as one of the most exciting in K-beauty right now—is the star here.

Manges explains that it "helps support the skin renewal processes and improve the appearance of dull, fatigued-looking skin. It deeply replenishes moisture, promotes a revitalized appearance and enhances the skin's natural luminosity for a radiant complexion."

Best Affordable: Medicube PDRN Gel Mask, $19 for 4

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Another PDRN formula, but at a more affordable price. Manges says it "delivers impressive hydration, improves skin plumpness and radiance and gives a post-facial glow without the luxury price tag."

The gel format is easy to apply and comfortable to wear, and the PDRN technology that's the same as in more expensive masks for a fraction of the cost.

Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Beplain Mung Bean Mask, $20

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Manges recommends this alongside the Beauty of Joseon Red Bean for acne-prone skin, and the mung bean formula takes the calming and purifying angle. It "helps calm and purify congested skin" while maintaining the skin's moisture balance, she explains—which addresses the two-part challenge of acne-prone skin, clearing without stripping.

"Supporting a clearer, smoother-looking complexion without excessive dryness" is the goal, and this delivers it.

Best Rubber Mask: Dr. Jart+ Cryo Rubber Mask, $16

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This is Dr. Jhin's favorite rubber mask, and she describes it as "a spa experience," which tracks with how the modeling mask category works. The rubber seal creates an occlusive environment that dramatically boosts penetration of whatever serum is underneath, making the actives in your routine work much harder than they would without the occlusion.

Think of it as the at-home version of what estheticians do in treatment rooms.

Best Bubble Mask: Menokin Collagen Bubble Mask, $20

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Dr. Jhin chooses this option as the best bubble mask, which she loves for "that instant glow." Bubble masks oxygenate the skin as they activate, creating a fizzing effect that deep-cleans pores while the collagen in this formula supports hydration simultaneously.

It's the most visually satisfying mask application in K-beauty and one of the few that cleans and hydrates rather than choosing between the two.

Best Wrapping Mask: Celimax Cream Wrapping Mask, $22

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This is Manges's sleeping mask favorite—and the wrapping mask format is its own category Dr. Guo is enthusiastic about more broadly. "They form a sheet over your face and prevent your skincare from rubbing on the pillow," he explains, noting that they function as the last step in a nighttime routine rather than replacing it.

Manges specifically loves that this one "creates a nourishing overnight moisture barrier that supports skin repair and deep hydration," and that you wake up with noticeably smoother, plumper, glassier skin the next morning. Which is, frankly, the whole promise of K-beauty in one product.

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Related: 11 Korean Fragrance Brands a Perfume Expert Wishes More People Knew About

Sources:

• Jessica Manges, ARNP, founder and lead injector, LUX Injectables
• Dr. Marie Jhin, board-certified dermatologist and author of K-Beauty Secrets
• Dr. Danny Guo, board-certified cosmetic dermatologist

In 1973, a catchy hit song turned a family of five singing siblings into pop stars.

In the era of family groups such as the Jackson Five and the Osmonds, “Heartbeat—It’s a Lovebeat” was recorded by The DeFranco Family for their debut album of the same name.

Featuring an upbeat melody and wholesome lyrics about young love, "Heartbeat—It’s a Lovebeat" was led by 13-year-old Tony DeFranco. The song's infectious sound and youthful charm captured audiences, making it one of the biggest bubblegum hits of the era—and making DeFranco a teen idol.

Tony DeFranco was the youngest of the five siblings in the Canadian singing group, which also included Benny, Marisa, Nino, and Merlina DeFranco.

“I was doing all the singing on all the songs back in Canada,” Tony once told Classic Bands. “That's pretty much how it was. I don't know how it led to that, but [eldest brother] Benny was pretty much the leader of the band. When it came to singing, it was me.”

 The teen singer’s life changed after "Heartbeat—It’s a Lovebeat” hit the airwaves.

“It was extreme because I went from being a little 11, 12-year-old kid in Canada who hadn't even heard of Hollywood, to living in Hollywood!” he shared. “Everywhere I went, everyone wanted a piece of you. It was basically a magic carpet ride. It was an extreme change.”

“Heartbeat—It’s a Lovebeat” sold over three million copies and reached No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 in November 1973.  

Despite his young age, Tony DeFranco knew the song would be a hit.

“You know what's interesting is like to this day people talk about, ‘Oh my God if I could have a hit record, could I have a hit record’ and they're hoping and wishing and praying, but because I was so naive we're in the studio and that song was so infectious, I never imagined it wouldn't be a hit,” DeFranco, now 66, told Pop Culture Retro. “Which is completely stupid, you know, completely stupid.”

“But you know maybe with the power of positive thinking,” he continued. “Because shortly thereafter it's on 93-KHJ, you know the only station to be on the West Coast, and we just flipped out. And then every time we changed the station, it was on some other station. And we were just in the car, listening to different stations.”

“It's the song that keeps on giving,” he added of "Heartbeat." “It keeps coming up, and I’m grateful for it.”

Before disbanding in 1978, The DeFranco family also had Top 40 hits with the songs “Abra-ca-Dabra" and "Save The Last Dance For Me," but "Heartbeat” became the family harmony group’s signature song.

More than 50 years later, "Heartbeat—It’s a Lovebeat” remains a bubblegum classic that takes fans back to an era of sunny melodies and sweet teenage dreams.

Related: 1969 No. 1 Hit Ranked the ‘Top Bubblegum Pop Song’ Was by a Fictional Band

Calling all shark lovers—Shark Week returns to the Discovery Channel on July 26, 2026. You’ll want to tune into this annual shark-themed program to see the shark that matches your power. But how will you know which shark aligns with you? Part of you may initially resonate with the great white until you see just how many sharks there are. Thrashing bull sharks, easygoing whale sharks, friendly leopard sharks, and more might pique your interest. Since there’s so many sharks to choose from, look to your birth month for guidance. 

The cosmic energy of your birth month comes from the combined traits and attributes of two distinct zodiac signs. Although some birth months may share a star sign, no two months are the exact same combination. Since all birth months are unique, they’ll resonate with different sharks. Read on to find the shark that matches you, based on your birth month.

Your Shark, Based on Your Birth Month

Check for the month you were born for pro insights.

January: Hammerhead Shark

January’s shark shares Capricorn’s noteworthy reputation while remaining individualistic and free thanks to Aquarius’ influence. Although many sharks might fit, January will feel strongly connected to the hammerhead shark. Not only does this shark have a one-of-a-kind appearance that sets them apart, but the hammerhead shark is also globally recognized. Everyone knows who the hammerhead shark is, just like everyone knows who January is. January resonates with the hammerhead shark, because this creature represents January’s astonishing legacy and ability to stand out in the crowd. 

February: Greenland Shark

People born in February want a shark that mirrors their aloofness, since they’re a mix of detached Aquarius and elusive Pisces. The perfect shark should capture February’s independence and mysteriousness, so they’re aligned with the Greenland shark. This specific shark is known to stay away from literally everything. Greenland sharks mind their own business, which is something February appreciates. However, the Greenland shark isn’t known for its aggressiveness since they remain rather calm during the rare encounter. February cannot deny that their detached, yet friendly nature is mirrored in the Greenland shark. 

March: Lemon Shark

A kindly yet fierce looking shark is aligned with March, because this birth month is home to gentle Pisces and daring Aries. March’s blend of sweet and spicy aligns them with the lemon shark. Similar to other sharks, the lemon shark still has a formidable reputation. However, lemon sharks are known to be friendlier than some of their brethren. March will see their own loving, compassionate nature in the lemon shark, since this shark cares deeply for its companions and community. Like March, lemon sharks might appear intimidating, but they’re truly sweethearts. 

April: Tiger Shark

People born in April love all of the ferocious sharks. They’re a mix of fearless Aries and stubborn Taurus, so all April-born are drawn to the fierce tiger shark. April connects with the tiger shark, because this creature represents April’s power and stamina. Tiger sharks are aggressive, competitive beings that stop at nothing to get what they want. However, tiger sharks also share April’s selectivity. Neither the tiger shark or this birth month will waste their precious time and energy on meaningless pursuits, which is why they’re a perfect match. 

May: Carpet Shark

Those born in May are known for their easygoing personalities and innovation, given that they’re co-ruled by relaxed Taurus and insightful Gemini. May doesn’t have a forceful nature, so they’re aligned with the carpet shark. Unlike other sharks, the carpet shark doesn’t have to be especially ferocious or intimidating to get the job done. Carpet sharks use their intelligence to survive as they skirt along the ocean floor. May will admire the carpet shark’s resourcefulness and placid nature, since this benign shark mirrors May’s nonchalant attitude. 

June: Whale Shark

June looks for a shark that intrigues them, since they’re influenced by inquisitive Gemini and intuitive Cancer. They may not feel connected to many sharks, but the whale shark stands out. Unlike other sharks, the whale shark doesn’t have to make a splash to be taken seriously. Whale sharks are beloved for how gentle they are despite their power and strength. June cannot help but admire this, since the whale shark encourages June to be the same with their energy. There’s no doubt that the whale shark is highly spiritually connected with this birth month.   

July: Great White Shark

Those born in July have a deep respect for sharks. In particular, July feels aligned with the great white shark’s big personality since they’re ruled by the luminary signs, Cancer and Leo. People born during this month are known for their star qualities, so they’ll see their star power reflected in the great white shark. This shark truly captures July’s popularity, since no other shark is as famous as the great white. Aside from being famous, July also sees their fighting spirit and emotional prowess reflected in this magnificent being. 

August: Epaulette Shark

August is renowned for their immense talents, thanks to being guided by confident Leo and skilled Virgo. Given their astute cosmic make-up, August aligns with the epaulette shark. Like August, the epaulette shark never fails to impress. This tiny shark is the star of low tides because it’s one of the few sharks that can walk on its pectoral fins. August can appreciate the epaulette shark’s ingenuity, while also fawning over this tiny shark’s adorable appearance. There’s no better shark for August than the epaulette shark. 

September: Leopard Shark

Incredibly kind and sociable individuals are born in September. Their friendly nature comes from perceptive Virgo and compassionate Libra, which is reflected in the leopard shark. September cannot help but fall in love with this exceptionally friendly shark. Like those born in September, leopard sharks can make friends wherever they go because they genuinely enjoy being social with all kinds of creatures. Aside from being friendly, the leopard shark also shares September's easygoing demeanor and openness.  

October: Basking Shark

October has a bark worse than their bite. Their congenial Libra energy is masked by their Scorpionic intensity, so October is often mistaken as being far more intimidating than they actually are. The basking shark knows exactly how October feels. Basking sharks look fierce given their size and impressive mouth, but they’re actually surprisingly passive. Like those born in October, basking sharks might get a bad rap until people take a moment to get to know them. Thankfully, October and basking sharks see each other for who they truly are. 

November: Bull Shark

Like April and July, those born in November share a strong connection with the fiercest sharks. November is co-ruled by biting Scorpio and bold Sagittarius, so they’ll find a match in the bull shark. This specific shark is considered to be one of the most dangerous and deadliest in the world, because they mirror November’s unwavering strength, grit, and aggressiveness. Although the bull shark scares away most, November still stands by it. There’s no doubt that this birth month completely empathizes with the bull shark’s infamous yet commendable ferocity. 

December: Shortfin Mako Shark

December wants to explore and experience as much as they can, given that they’re influenced by insatiable Sagittarius and ambitious Capricorn. There’s nothing December won’t go to propel themselves forward, which is why they’re aligned with the shortfin mako shark. December has a special place in their heart for the shortfin mako, because they’re the fastest shark. Like those born in December, shortfin makos don’t waste any time if they know what they want. Together, December and the shortfin mako can go great lengths to achieve their dreams.

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