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Celine Dion Mourns Death of Legendary R&B Singer, Remembers His 'Kind Spirit'
Céline Dion is remembering the "kind spirit" and "incredible voice" of R&B legend Peabo Bryson following the singer's death at age 75.
Dion took to social media shortly after Bryson's family announced his death on Tuesday, June 2, to mourn the passing of her Beauty and the Beast collaborator, with whom she sang the title track of the beloved 1991 Disney film.
"I’m heartbroken to hear that we lost Peabo Bryson today," Dion began her tribute. "His incredible voice and his kind spirit embodied the beauty of song and performance."
Dion and Bryson won a Grammy award in 1992 for their duet on "Beauty and the Beast," which also marked the Canadian singer's first U.S. and U.K. top 10 hit. Bryson would go on to win his second Grammy the following year for his performance on another iconic Disney song, Aladdin's "A Whole New World," with Regina Belle.
"He was so wonderful and generous to me all those years ago, when we recorded Beauty and the Beast," Dion remembered of her time working with Bryson. "He made me so comfortable, as I was just learning to sing in English."
She concluded, "He will remain for me always as a real symbol of the joy that music has brought to my life. His voice and his talent will be missed…My heart is with your family, and may you rest in peace, Peabo."
Bryson's family announced on Tuesday that the singer-songwriter had died surrounded by family after he had suffered a stroke over the weekend.
"For more than five decades, Peabo's extraordinary voice served as the soundtrack to some of life's most cherished moments," the family shared in a statement. "His music carried generations through joyful celebrations, great love stories and enduring moments of comfort and inspiration, creating a legacy that will forever live in the hearts of those who loved him and the countless lives he touched through song."
'70s Rock Icon Reveals 'Awful' Illness Led to Last-Minute Concert Cancellation
Rod Stewart is sharing the details of the "awful" illness that forced him to cancel two recent shows in his Las Vegas residency just hours before he was set to hit the stage.
The 81-year-old "Maggie May" singer addressed the audience after returning to the stage of the Colosseum at Caesars Palace on Tuesday, June 2, giving insight as to why he abruptly canceled his May 29 and May 30 Encore residency shows on "doctor’s advice."
"Before we go any further, last week I passed on two shows, and I'll tell you why," Stewart told the audience in social media footage shared by E! News. "I had this awful f--king sinus infection. I should've gone to the hospital, but I didn't."
Stewart continued that his reticence to seek medical help led to his ears and eardrums getting infected, and that he eventually "couldn't hear a thing."
"When you've got your ears blocked up, it ruins your equilibrium," he told the crowd, adding that while he's since recovered from the infection, he "might stumble a bit tonight."
Despite the health setback, the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer insisted that he was back with his "good voice" and ready to perform once more, encouraging the crowd, "Enjoy yourselves!"
Prior to last week's cancellations, a representative for Stewart told the Las Vegas Review-Journal in a statement, "Following his doctor’s advice, Rod Stewart has regretfully cancelled his performances at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas on May 29 and 30, but is scheduled to return with shows beginning June 2.”
Stewart added in a message of his own, “My apologies to my family of fans. I am on vocal rest as I recover from a sinus infection. I look forward to seeing you at a future show at Caesars Palace or on tour this summer."
The rock icon is scheduled to perform shows for his Rod Stewart: The Encore Shows residency through June 6 before taking a break, returning to the stage on Aug. 18 for another string of performances running through Aug. 29.
Bari Weiss Defends Scott Pelley’s Firing
CBS News Editor-in-Chief Bari Weiss addressed the staff on the morning of Wednesday, June 3, following the news that the network had fired veteran 60 Minutes journalist Scott Pelley.
According to Variety, in a conference call, Weiss began by saying that she needs "to address what’s transpired in our newsroom over the past two days and what is making news."
"I know I speak for myself, and I hope I speak for everyone here, when I say that I’m only interested in working in a newsroom that is built on trust and mutual respect," she added. "We cannot do our work without it. That foundation was broken on Monday, and despite our attempts to engage with Scott Pelley and to find a way back, unfortunately we weren’t able to do so, and so we had to part ways.
"We did not want that to happen, but that’s the path that he chose.”
Pelley's firing came after he clashed with management and specifically the show's new executive producer, Nick Bilton, in a staff meeting. As a result, Bilton sent a letter to Pelley on Tuesday, June 2, informing him of his termination, and said that his "antipathy to the future of the show has come through loud and clear."
Bilton also sent a separate not to 60 Minutes employees, addressing the decision.
"“I know how much Scott meant to many of you, and I don’t say this lightly,” Bilton wrote in the letter, shared by NBC News. “I made repeated attempts to have direct conversations with him over the weekend, and this afternoon I tried to find common ground. That was not the path Scott chose.”
Pelley then released a statement of his own, accusing CBS and the new owners, while explicitly saying the show has "lost its DNA."
“The leadership of 60 Minutes is no longer recognizable. The principles I hold dear are gone, and so I must leave as well,” Pelley added.
Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos Share the Wild Birth Story Behind Son Michael’s Birthday
Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos are looking back on the day they became parents.
The Live with Kelly and Mark hosts celebrated their eldest son Michael Consuelos' 29th birthday during the Tuesday, June 2 episode of their daytime talk show, but Ripa made it clear that she was paying attention to the exact timing.
According to People, Ripa joked that she had texted Michael that morning to remind him he was not technically born until later that day.
"I said, 'Remember, you weren't born until 7:17 p.m., so technically it's not your birthday yet,'" Ripa recalled. "You haven't made your grand entrance yet."
Consuelos then joked that Ripa always makes a "speech" about their children's birth times on their birthdays.
Kelly Ripa Recalls Michael's Long Labor View this post on InstagramRipa and Consuelos then started looking back on Michael's birth, including the long wait before he arrived.
"I remember, I was watching Entertainment Tonight when they were like, 'Ready to have a baby?'" Ripa said. "And I was like, 'Okay, can we wait 'til this episode's over?'"
Consuelos said Ripa had a "very long labor" with Michael, and the couple ended up staying at the hospital overnight.
But Ripa said that even though her labor was long, another woman at the hospital seemed to be having a much more urgent experience.
Related: Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos Share Heartbreaking News on Live TV
"I remember hearing someone having a baby on the floor," Consuelos said.
"The woman in the hallway, [she] gave birth in the hallway," Ripa added. "[She] got to the hospital too late for an epidural and was in active labor."
The moment stayed with both of them.
"I remember thinking I had gotten to the hospital too early, but then I heard that, and I was like, 'Just in time! I got here in the nick of time!'" Ripa said. "We both woke up. It woke us both up, and I was fully under the haze of an epidural. I was feeling nothing, but I felt that."
Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos' Family HOLLYWOOD, CA - OCTOBER 12: Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos with their children attend the ceremony honoring Kelly Ripa with a Star on The Hollywood Walk of Fame held on October 12, 2015 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Michael Tran/FilmMagic)Ripa and Consuelos share three children: Michael, 29, Lola, 24, and Joaquin, 23.
Michael has followed his parents into entertainment in his own way. He has acted in projects including Riverdale, where he played a younger version of his father's character, Hiram Lodge, and has also worked as a producer.
View this post on InstagramRipa and Consuelos have often spoken about their children on Live with Kelly and Mark, mixing sweet family updates with the teasing stories that have become part of their on-air dynamic.
'MasterChef' Sneak Peek: One Contestant Agonizes Over a Game-Changing Decision (Exclusive)
In a "World Cup Cookoff" episode, the MasterChef kitchen is transformed into a backyard barbecue, with the remaining home cooks tasked with cooking dishes that would be perfect for a FIFA World Cup watch party, but not finger food or handhelds, rather plated meals.
But, of course, there’s a dramatic twist. At halftime, Dave Patera, who is the holder of the Immunity Pin after winning last week’s team challenge, gets to bench one cook from this challenge, which could change the whole game. That person will be safe. But there’s a strategy to it. If he gets rid of a territory’s best cook, the chances of that territory getting a win go way down, but if someone from his own team looks like they’re in trouble, he can bench them to save them.
Watching from the balcony, Dave, who is a member of Team Africa, gets to oversee all the cooks below and decide who he’s going to take out of the game. Watch the exclusive sneak peek as he tries to make his decision.
“We’re getting closer to halftime, and it’s actually kind of an intense experience,” he says in this early release clip from tonight’s episode. “I’m not entirely sure which strategy I’m going to use. Asia-Pacific, their team is fully intact. There are five of them, and I could potentially take out one of their top cooks. The Americas also have some really strong cooks. I could bench someone and potentially weaken their territory. On the other hand, Europe tonight, they’re giving enough hectic energy on their own, and I think that will work itself out.”
Who will Dave select? Tune in tonight to find out if his strategy works.
MasterChef airs Wednesday nights at 8 p.m. ET/PT on FOX. Streams next day on Hulu.
Following this week's episode, MasterChef will pause for the World Cup and new episodes will continue on July 15th.
Next, MasterChef: Global Gauntlet Results: Who Went Home? (Night 3)
1976 Rock Song, Originally 6 Minutes Long, Became a Heartbreak Anthem Despite Never Being No.1
In 1976,Tom Pettyand the Heartbreakers were ready to release their debut album as a band. One of their biggest hits was a sultry rock song with a guitar lick that became known as one of the best rock anthems of the era, but never actually topped the charts.
The band developed "Breakdown" as one of their lead singles for their self-titled debut album. Written by Petty, the song's lyrics speak about the reality of the heartbreak of a failing relationship. The singer says there's nothing left for each of them to say, as if recognizing there's nothing left to do.
"Breakdown" was released in November of 1976 and landed at No. 40 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and No. 33 on Cash Box. Despite not ranking higher, the track became a popular hit among fans not only for its lyrics, but for having one of the best guitar riffs that made the track almost six minutes long.
According to Guitar Player, guitarist Mike Campbell was working on a guitar lick he called a "mindless doodle" that would become the song's signature hook. The guitar lick was originally used as the outro for the song and was buried among everything else. Petty and singer-songwriter Dwight Twilley were the ones to realize the star potential of it being a guitar riff for the track.
“Everyone had gone home, and I was sitting there listening, and in walks Dwight Twilley," said Petty. "Twilley turns to me and says, ‘That's the lick, man! How come he only plays it once at the end of the song? It's the whole hook.’"
After relistening to it, Petty agreed that they needed to make the guitar lick a more important part of the overall song. Some details on exactly what time vary about the song's creation, with Petty having called the band in the middle of the night back to the studio.
“So I called the band up — 4:00 in the morning — and told them to come back down. We did it again around the lick, took a couple takes, and there it was," said the singer.
"Breakdown" was reported to have been either six minutes long or well over eight minutes when it was re-recorded. The band had ultimately trimmed the track down to over two minutes for its single release. Campbell remembers having used a One a Day vitamins pill bottle during the recording, but they scrapped it as the sound wasn't what they were looking for.
“We decided that the bottleneck was too bluesy. So I just played the part without the bottleneck and it worked. It’s just one of those things you stumble onto," said Campbell.
"Breakdown" would become one of the most well-known tracks by the band, which also included guest guitarist Jeff Jourad and Phil Seymour as backing vocals.
Related: 1967 Folk-Pop Ballad, Written by a Teenager, Became a Melancholy Anthem Decades Later
Amazon's $20 Heavy-Duty Tote Bag Set Is 'Great for Any Type of Seasonal Storage' and 'So Helpful for Moving'
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If you’ve been looking for an easy way to corral winter coats or bulky bedding to get your home in order for summer, the Velvetsure Storage Tote Bag Set is a great choice that also happens to be a steal. Right now, the 24-gallon six-pack in multicolor is the best deal, marked down to just $20 on Amazon.
The set is also available in nine single color packs, including black, blue, pink, teal, silver, aquamarine, and semi-transparent. Additionally, there are other size and quantity options (such as a 24-gallon 12-pack and a larger 40-gallon six-pack) if you need extra space.
Velvetsure Storage Tote Bag Set, From $20 (was $24) at Amazon Shop at AmazonThe 24-gallon bags measure 29 inches long by 14 inches wide by 13 inches high and hold up to 65 pounds. The larger 40-gallon version measures 35.43 inches long by 16.14 inches wide by 16.14 inches high and supports up to 150 pounds. All sizes are made from woven polypropylene and designed with reinforced handles, zipper closures, backpack-style straps, and a moistureproof coating for added durability.
What makes these especially useful is how quickly they simplify the messier parts of moving and storage. Instead of scrambling for boxes, tape, and mismatched bins, you can fill these, zip them shut, and stack them neatly. They also fold flat when not in use, so they won’t take up valuable closet or shelf space year-round.
Reviewers have said they’re “totally worth the money.” One shopper shared, “These are so helpful for moving,” while another noted they hold “way more than expected.” Others described them as “so versatile and well made,” with one reviewer adding, “I’m never going back to moving boxes again!”
Related: Amazon Is Selling a $15 Linen Tank Top That Shoppers Say Is 'Lightweight' and 'Comfortable'
Beyond seasonal clothing swaps, they’re also handy to keep in the car for groceries, use for laundry runs, or stash extra linens and towels. Some people said they even use them to store gifts out of sight or organize holiday decor between seasons. Multiple reviewers shared that they've purchased the bags several times due to their great quality and value.
If you want a flexible storage option that works for moving days, seasonal swaps, and everyday clutter control, the Velvetsure Storage Tote Bag Set is worth considering. With multiple colors, sizes, and quantities available, it’s easy to find an option that fits your space and storage needs. Be sure to snag yours now while the $20 deal is still live on Amazon.
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Rachel Maddow Stands by Scott Pelley After CBS Exit, Extends MS Now Invitation
Rachel Maddow publicly voiced her support for Scott Pelley following the shocking news of his firing from CBS on Tuesday, June 2.
That same night, Maddow spoke about it during her latest TV appearance, saying that she hopes Pelley will land "right here," referencing MSNBC.
“There’s nobody who is more acutely attuned to the value of a free press than those who are trying to take it away," Maddow said of Pelley. "There's nothing else going on at CBS News other than what we can see is happening at CBS News. And I don't know where Scott Pelley will land. Frankly, I hope he lands right here."
And she wants him back on screen as soon as possible.
"I hope he’s on TV tomorrow," Maddow stated. "And I hope that everybody in journalism and everybody who values a free press figures out ways to outmaneuver the people who are trying to take the free press from us. But it is a fully joined fight at this point. And there’s no, I just don’t think there’s any pretense that anything else was happening here."
The 60 Minutes veteran was fired from CBS, with executive producer, Nick Bilton saying that Pelley showed “performative display[s] of hostility” and had “no interest in contributing to the future success of the show.”
Following Bilton's termination letter that was made public, Pelley released a statement of his own, defending his actions and calling out CBS's leadership.
"But now the collapse of values at the top has become untenable. The leadership of 60 Minutes is no longer recognizable. The principles I hold dear are gone, and so I must leave as well," he wrote. "I depart after 37 years at CBS with one emotion—a heart brimming with gratitude for the men and women of CBS News who encouraged and enriched my work, very often at the risk of their own lives. I pray for a day when those people and their ideals are honored again—a day when sanity, competence, and courage return."
This Northeast State Ranks No. 1 for Healthy Seniors and It's Great for Retirees— But There's a Catch
In a 2025 Senior Report by the United Health Foundation, researchers studied 36 measures across five overall health categories to see how well each state supported adults aged 65 and older. Climbing up two spots from 2024, Vermont claimed the No. 1 spot for senior health out of all 50 states — making it the healthiest state for older adults in the country.
It's hard to argue with the Green Mountain State's four-season climate, scenic mountains, tight-knit communities, and access to outdoor recreation. For seniors specifically, the data shows positive trends that make this Northeast state a coveted spot for retirement planning.
Vermont Senior Health Rankings by CategoryThe United Health Foundation study broke its data down into Behaviors, Social and Economic Factors, Clinical Care, Health Outcomes, and Physical Environment to determine which state is the most senior-friendly. Each of these main categories studied specific measures to inform the report.
Photo by Jon Lovette on Getty Images
Here's how Vermont ranked overall:
- Behaviors: #1
- Social and Economic Factors: #2
- Clinical Care: #14
- Health Outcomes: #13
- Physical Environment: #12
Landing in the top 15 across all 50 states in terms of quality of life is no small feat. It's clear that Vermont is a sought-after state that takes care of its senior residents and sets the bar for a retirement experience.
So, What's the Catch?Retiring in Vermont comes at a cost. The Green Mountain State is one of the most expensive places to retire, and experts recommend having at least $1,185,274 in retirement savings to live comfortably.
Photo by DNY59 on Getty Images
On the tax front, Vermont retirement taxes are among the most complex in the country. The state still taxes Social Security benefits for many retirees, and most other retirement income — including pensions, 401(k)s and IRA distributions — is subject to state income tax. Vermont's income tax range of 3.35% to 8.75% surpasses California's top rate in some brackets, and property taxes average around $5,000 annually.
But retirement planning in Vermont goes beyond finances. According to retirement industry expert and Broadcast Retirement Networkproducer Jeffrey Snyder, relocating for retirement requires thinking beyond taxes and the cost of living. "It's most important to consider your social interactions and to be challenged intellectually to prevent cognitive decline," he tells Parade. He also points to proximity to medical care and family as critical factors when choosing the best place to retire. "Healthcare needs increase as we age — and we may need more assistance from others with even our basic needs."
Related: Want to retire somewhere without sacrificing your savings?
The Bottom LineVermont ranks as one of the healthiest states to retire in — but the lifestyle and health benefits come with a real price tag. As Jeffrey Snyder reminds us, the best retirement relocation decisions weigh community, healthcare access, and proximity to loved ones alongside the financials. Before making the move, stress-testing your retirement savings with a financial advisor is a smart first step.
Redditor Shares Questionable Disney Scam That Cost Them Nearly $1k
When a "Your tickets to Disney are confirmed" type email lands in your inbox, it should spark excitement and anticipation. However, if you never bought the tickets or had no intention of seeing the mouse in person, it raises some red flags.
A Redditor user recently took to r/personalfinance, outlining a string of suspicious emails and a $970 charge that left them asking the internet: "What's the scam?"
Photo by Thapana Onphalai on Getty Images
How Disney Ticket Fraud Unfolded- An email from Disney confirmed a new account had been created under the user's name.
- A second email notified the user that the account had been updated. Fifteen minutes later, a third email confirmed the purchase of four Disneyland tickets totaling $970. The first ticket was booked under the user's full name with three other unknown first names attached.
- American Express contacted the user about the unusual $970 charge.
- A few minutes after the first purchase, another email from Disney indicated a new sign-in location.
- American Express flagged the user's account after an attempt to book a Disney cruise.
- The cardholder contacted American Express, had the charge reversed, and received a new card.
- Days later, the user received a "Thank you for your visit" email from Disneyland.
Piecing together the "what" is one thing, but it's the "how" that Reddit couldn't stop dissecting.
How the Scam Worked (And Didn't Work)According to commenters on the thread, the answer is straightforward: the scammer obtained the user's credit card information and used it to purchase Disneyland tickets, which are easily resold for cash.
How could a thief get their actual email? Redditors pointed out that a data breach (especially if they had accounts like Disney+, Hulu, or ESPN) could be the culprit. Some theorized that by using the victim's real name and email address, the scammer bypassed Disney's automated fraud detection systems, which flag purchases when billing information doesn't match account details.
Photo by Curly_photo on Getty Images
What to do if you notice fraudulent activity on your accounts
- Contact your credit card company immediately to reverse charges and request a new card
- Flag the account created in your name and change the password to reclaim it
- Change your email password and enable two-factor authentication
- Update passwords on any account that shares the same credentials
- Check your email account for unrecognized logins from unfamiliar locations
- Visit Identitytheft.gov and follow the steps if you think your information was stolen or part of a data breach.
Related: Read more about protecting your personal information:
These days, we're accustomed to ignoring, filtering and deleting attempted phishing scams or questionable emails. However, it might be time to do a security check on your financials before a red flag gets lost in your inbox and a thief gets a trip on your dime.
Forget LA and San Francisco — These Affordable California Cities Are Perfect for Retirees
You may be California Dreamin’ about retiring in The Golden State, but think it isn’t possible because you’re on a budget. Good news! That doesn’t have to be the case. As long as you pick the right spot, you can retire on a budget in these California cities.
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Related: Delta Adds Direct Flights to This Stunning California Coastal Wine Region
5 Top PicksAccording to a ranking by SeniorLiving.com, there are at least 10 affordable cities in California where retirees on a budget can retire. They offer affordability, amenities, and the beautiful California weather. Here are the top 5 picks that stood out:
Bakersfield - Considered one of the most affordable cities in California and ranked 5th for affordability among 100 major U.S. cities. According to KGET, Bakersfield is 18% more affordable than the rest of the state. If your annual income is under $100k, you'll still be able to afford a home here.
Chico - Last year, Advance America surveyed real estate agents across the country to determine which U.S. cities strike the right balance between quality of life and affordability. Chico was the top-rated city in California on the list. The median home price is $466,126, higher than the national average but lower than in many other parts of the state.
Redding - Northern California still has some of the most stunning wilderness in the United States, and you can grab a home in Redding for an average of $392,359. According to real estate agent Faith Barrett, the average income in the city in 2024 was $70,000, well within the budget of many retirees.
Merced - Another California city that's seen home prices decrease in the past year is Merced. They're down 1.5% and sit around $397,040, according to real estate website Zillow. As of 2025, the population was under 100,000, but it's been growing steadily since 2010.
Hemet - Located in Riverside County east of Los Angeles, Hemet has a median home price of $445,441, which is down 0.04% from last year. It's centrally located between Los Angeles, Riverside, and Palm Springs and offers a variety of senior living options for those not interested in homeownership.
Other Things To ConsiderRetiring in California is certainly a dream. With SoCal’s sunny climate and NorCal’s stunning wilderness, the landscape won’t ever disappoint. There are other things to consider, however, if you want to spend your third chapter in the fourth-largest economy in the world.
Consider the AARP Livability Index and check medicare.gov to help you compare cities in California against your personal needs. Living in affordable cities in California often means a trade-off, requiring you to drive farther for access to activities or medical care. Many of these cities are improving, as California continues to push for better livability for all residents.
You don’t have to live along the coast to enjoy the natural beauty and benefits of California. Most of the state offers stunning natural beauty, higher-quality healthcare, and plenty of activities to keep you occupied during your retirement.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.
Jennifer Aniston and Lisa Kudrow Reveal a New Idea That Could Reunite the ‘Friends’ Women
Over 30 years after Jennifer Aniston and Lisa Kudrow first rose to fame on Friends, the duo is open to reuniting onscreen with Courteney Cox.
Kudrow, 62, who is best known for her memorable role as the blonde Phoebe on the beloved series, sat down with Aniston, who played the spoiled Rachel Green on the show, for the new Variety cover story. Along with their costars, Courteney Cox, Matthew Perry, David Schwimmer, and Matt LeBlanc, the stars skyrocketed to fame and went down in TV history. Both Kudrow and Aniston have earned significant acclaim for their post-Friends roles, with Kudrow back for a third and final season as actress Valerie Cherish in HBO’s The Comeback, and Aniston on Apple TV+'s The Morning Show. However, the duo says they are willing to appear alongside each other once again.
"I would love to do another one, if anyone wrote a good one. Let’s do it. You heard it here!" Kudrow shared during the interview. "Can we do you, me and Courteney? What would that be?"
"Girlfriends. Let’s pitch it. Let’s workshop it in front of all of these wonderful people," Aniston said in response.
With millions of Friends stars around the world, it's safe to say that the show would be a success.
View this post on Instagram Aniston Has Found Love With Jim CurtisThese days, Aniston is happier than ever. Her boyfriend, hypnotherapist Jim Curtis, recently shared a look into the couple’s romantic life.
“Life lately. Grateful,” Curtis, 50, captioned his photo carousel, which showed everything from working out in the PVOLVE gym to reading a book to an adorable baby. However, it was the snaps of Aniston that captured our eyes. In one selfie, Aniston is pictured planting a kiss on her boyfriend’s cheek, while in another, she’s surrounded by dogs while sitting on the floor. Another shot shows the Friends alum alongside Reese Witherspoon.
View this post on Instagram How Long Has Lisa Kudrow Been Married?Photo by Jeff Kravitz on Getty Images
Kudrow has been married to advertising executive Michael Stern for 30 years. When speaking to the HollywoodReporter, the comedy queen shared that she’s grateful she kicked off her relationship with Stern before she became known as Phoebe Buffay on the iconic series. (The couple married in 1995, one year after the show began.)
“I feel like the luckiest thing that happened to me was that I met and fell in love with the man I was going to spend the rest of my life with before Friends, right before,” Kudrow said.
'Below Deck Mediterranean' Season 11 Is the Franchise’s Most Historic Yet—Here's Why
Get ready for whiplash at sea—because Below Deck Mediterranean Season 11 delivers some of the most historic storylines in franchise history.
A mix of baby drama, weddings, and cast shakeups, the new season finds Captain Sandy Yawn juggling messy crew drama, rising tensions, and a bosun balancing life on land and at sea.
For the first time in franchise history, a crew member returns with his family in tow. Bosun Nathan Gallagher and former Below Deck Med deckhand Gael Cameron welcomed baby Kayden, bringing their newborn to Dubrovnik, Croatia, as Nathan splits time between the yacht and home life.
Captain Sandy says she was fully supportive of production accommodating the arrangement—but admits the reality quickly set in.
“Every time I saw Nathan, he was so excited to see his family—but when he came back, he was exhausted,” she told Us Weekly. “It was important that Nathan got to see his son. As far as his job, how many people get to do that? Not many. So the fact that we were able to do that for him was great.”
Chief Stew Aesha Scott was also going through her own happy life change during filming. “Coming back this season, I was a little wary. I was getting married soon, but it honestly ended up being my favorite season ever!”
Deckhand Joe Bradley returns feeling regret from last season, where he found himself in a love triangle with stews Victoria "V" SanJuan and Kizzi Kitchener. The fallout soured Nathan’s attitude toward Joe after the two were once close friends—something Captain Sandy didn’t fully understand.
“I still don’t know what happened,” she admits. “You see how many times I’ve asked… I know about the dynamics between Joe and Nathan, but I don’t know why. I’ve gotten no answer.” She adds, “They had a bromance, and now they don’t… it’s so odd.”
Aesha, meanwhile, says she wasn’t surprised by the tension. “So I just tried to ignore it and let them handle it, until I couldn’t ignore it anymore.” She added Joe and Nathan’s friendship was beyond repair.
Joe, for his part, says he adapted to the dynamic. “I know how to work Nathan, I know how to deal with him. All you got to do is keep your mouth shut and don’t laugh,” he said. “That’s how you deal with Nathan.”
He added, “Nathan does say things, and he wants you to blow up. But if you just keep your mouth shut, head down, tail between your legs, that’s what he likes. He’s an aggressive man.”
On the interior side, Aesha had a very different experience. “The interior team this season was fire! For the first time ever, I finally got three stews. All of them were very capable, so we had the hands to make the guest experience even more elevated. Their dynamic starts OK like always, but things never stay OK for very long in yachting.”
And oh—former Chief Stew Hannah Ferrier returns for a cameo. “Hannah and I were in a great place, and having her there was wonderful,” Captain Sandy shared.
Below Deck Mediterranean Season 11 airs Monday, June 8 at 8 p.m. on Bravo.
1977 Classic Hit, Named 'Best Album of the 20th Century' Despite Never Reaching No. 1, Released 49 Years Ago Today
On this day 49 years ago, Bob Marley and the Wailers released a career-defining record, despite it never reaching No. 1 on the charts.
Exodus, the ninth studio album by the reggae band, was put out into the world on June 3, 1977. Featuring some of the group's most iconic tracks, such as "Jamming," "Three Little Birds," and "One Love / People Get Ready," the record is considered one of the most influential albums of all time. In 1999, Time named Exodus the "Best Album of the 20th Century," and in 2006, the album was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame.
While the album received a ton of critical acclaim, it failed to claim the top spot on the charts. In the U.S., it peaked at No. 20 on the Billboard 200, while it reached No. 8 on the U.K. Albums Charts.
One of the album's most popular tracks, "Three Little Birds," remains one of the most culturally important songs to date, thanks to its upbeat lyrics and relaxed melody. In 2008, the song was introduced to a fresh generation of music lovers after child singer Connie Talbot recorded her own version that catapulted to No. 1 on the Hot Singles Sales chart.
The 2024 biographical drama, Bob Marley: One Love, which stars British actor Kingsley Ben-Adir, depicts Marley's songwriting process for Exodus. The singer-songwriter wrote and recorded the majority of the album in London following his self-imposed exile from Kingston, Jamaica, after he survived an assassination attempt at his home in December 1976.
"After the shooting, me never want to just think about shooting," Marley told Sounds during an interview prior to his death on May 11, 1981. "So me just ease up me mind and go in a different bag. What me stand for me always stand for. Jah [God] is my strength."
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Five Below's New $5 Plush Throws Are Perfect for Getting Cozy Around the Campfire This Summer
When you think about peak blanket season, your brain probably jumps straight to fall. Crunchy leaves, chunky sweaters and that one throw blanket that feels more like a permanent accessory from October through February. Summer? Not exactly the season most people associate with getting wrapped up in something plush. But then summer actually starts happening, and suddenly cozy moments are everywhere. You know it's going to happen, yet somehow you're still surprised by them.
There are late-night campfires when the temperature drops way faster than expected. Beach evenings where the breeze rolls in and everyone's pretending they're not cold. Even road trips, outdoor movie nights and overly enthusiastic air conditioning can have you reaching for something soft.
Summer coziness just looks a little different. It's less about hibernation and more about hanging out under the stars. That's why it's so fun to see Five Below's cute new plush blankets sneak their way into this season's inventory. Because when those cozy moments pop up, having something soft, oversized and covered in an adorable pattern feels less like a winter thing and more like a summer essential.
Plush Throw Blanket, $5.55 at Five Below Plush Throw BlanketFive Below
The blanket measures 50 inches by 60 inches, so it's a pretty perfect summer throw size; it's big enough to wrap around your shoulders or keep nearby for outdoor hangs that get chillier after sunset. And it comes in two pretty print options—the pink toile (shown above) and a cheetah print—so your coziness comes with a little personality.
At $5.55 each, it's worth buying a couple of these blankets because you can almost bet on a friend or family member needing to "borrow" yours. Have a stash handy for a breezy evening party or fire pit night, and everyone can stay cozy when the sun goes down.
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If you pop into a Five Below right now, you'll see all sorts of sweet, summery finds. There are really pretty travel-inspired book boxes that are perfect for sneaky storage, and an affordable roll-up table you'll want to keep in your car for outdoor gatherings. And speaking of those events in nature, there's even a collapsible picnic basket that is great for transporting food and beverages to and from hangouts. Need a little light on your outdoor table? Check out Five Below's cordless lamp that you can take anywhere. The store is full of gems for summer, so stop by soon if you want to have the best summer ever.
1976 Oscar-Nominated Hit Has Just 30 Words—But Became an Iconic Movie Song
It may only run 30 words long, but this 1976 Oscar-nominated hit became one of the most iconic pieces of film music ever recorded.
“Gonna Fly Now,” the theme from the 1976 motion picture Rocky, starring Sylvester Stallone and Talia Shire, became an instant symbol of triumph and determination. Its soaring music and unforgettable chorus helped cement the film as a defining classic and turned the song into a pop culture anthem.
The song was written by composer Bill Conti, with lyrics by Carol Connors and Ayn Robbins. The composition helped capture the underdog spirit that defined Rocky.
"Gonna Fly Now" became synonymous with underdogs worldwide. It quickly became a go-to song for workouts, sporting events, and moments when people needed a little extra motivation.
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The song epitomizes the spirit of beating adversity. It played as Rocky Balboa trained for his first boxing match with Apollo Creed (Carl Weathers) and ended as he ran triumphantly up the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
According to the website Total Rocky, Conti wasn't the film's first choice for a composer. Reportedly, Shire's husband, composer David Shire, was asked prior, but he turned the job down due to the film's small budget.
Forbes reported that the film's entire budget was $1M. Stallone, who wrote and starred in the film, came in under that amount by keeping the length of filming under one month and using family and friends as extras.
Conti was offered $25K to do film's seminal theme song. He accepted, compsing, orchestrating, conducting and playing piano on the soundtrack.
"It's a movie about a loser," Conti declared. "He has a big fight, and we want to manipulate the audience into believing he can win."
Stallone said of Conti's composition, "It seemed very Roman Coliseum. It seemed very gladiatorial."
"He wrote from inside the character. It was epic, it really was," the actor and film star concluded.
United Artists/Getty ImagesCarol Connors and Ayn Robbins worked with Conti to craft the song's powerful lyrics, which were performed by a trio of singers: DeEtta Little West, Nelson Pigford, and Bob's wife, Shelby Conti. Their vocals were layered, so the three performers sounded like a large group.
At the time, choosing to build the sequence entirely around music instead of dialogue felt like a bold creative risk. However, this angle lets the score do the storytelling, carrying the emotion from start to finish.
"Gonna Fly Now" was nominated for Best Original Song at the 49th Academy Awards in 1977. It was beaten by "Evergreen" from the film A Star is Born. Other nominees in the same category included The Omen's "Ave Satini," The Pink Panther Strikes Again's "Come to Me," and "A World That Never Was" from Half a House.
Related: Sylvester Stallone Admits He Was 'Lonely' Before 'Rocky' Stardom
Walmart’s 'Sturdy' $66 Outdoor Storage Shed Is the 'Perfect Size' for Small Backyards
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If you're looking for an easy way to declutter your garage, yard, or patio for summer, Walmart's bestselling storage find can help you get organized without overcrowding your space. The Homall Outdoor Canopy Storage Shed is now on sale for just $66, down from $130, and it offers ample room to stash gardening supplies, decorations, patio furniture, and lawn mowers as warmer weather emerges.
At 37.4 inches wide, 70.8 inches deep, and 53 inches high, the portable shed has plenty of space to store your seasonal overflow while still remaining compact enough to fit in small yards, decks, patios, and other tight spaces. It's made of heavy-duty steel that's durable enough to stand up to wind and rain, with a premium powder coat finish that prevents rust, chipping, and corrosion.
Homall Outdoor Canopy Storage Shed, $66 (was $130) at Walmart Shop at WalmartThe sturdy frame is covered in a high-density PE fabric canopy that's waterproof and UV-resistant. It also comes with a movable roll-up door with a two-way zipper closure that helps enhance ventilation and allow for easy access to the interior. Assembly is a breeze, with all the required tools included right in the package.
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The Homall shed is a Walmart bestseller for a reason, earning dozens of five-star reviews online. Shoppers praised its "sturdy" yet compact build, which is versatile enough for any outdoor setup no matter how big or small. One reviewer called it "great for tight spaces," while another said it's "the perfect size" for a patio.
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With its ample storage space, hassle-free assembly, and an ultra-affordable price, this portable outdoor canopy storage shed can help simplify all of your spring cleaning efforts. Snag one for yourself while it's still on sale for nearly 50% off at Walmart.
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'90s Heartthrob Rupert Everett Says Pursuit of the Perfect Hollywood Body Left Him 'Almost Crippled'
Rupert Everett's career was at an all-time high in the late 1990's, especially being known for the Julia Roberts film, My Best Friend's Wedding. Looking back on his life, Everett admits he "ruined" himself to get the perfect look during his Hollywood golden years.
Many fans know Everett for appearing in several films, such as Another Country, The Importance of Being Ernest, and The Happy Prince. The 67-year-old actor was known for his sharp cheekbones and allure, but admits that the buff physique he flaunted almost cost him.
“I ruined myself,” he told the Guardian. “Now I’m almost crippled as a result.”
While working hard in the gym to define his muscles, Everett says that he didn't do it the right way. He could "never be bothered" to do things like stretching and warming up the body that he knew was "necessary" for lifting weights. Everett found it tedious and "boring."
"I didn’t do any of that. So now my demise will be musculoskeletal, I think," he said.
While joking about his weight during the interview, and being told that maybe he was too skinny back then. He wholeheartedly disagreed. Looking back, Everett felt those years were his best, but short-lived.
"I was wonderful-looking at one point. I had muscles. Everything," he said. "It was quite short-lived. I call it my Hollywood year."
My Best Friend's Wedding was undoubtedly Everett's big Hollywood comeback after the 1984 success of Another Country, which earned him a BAFTA nomination. The 1997 romantic comedy solidified Everett as the leading lady's gay best friend, and he would play that same type of character in Madonna's The Next Best Thing in 2000. Fans would also know him for his role in Disney's Inspector Gadget.
Related: Ted Danson Reveals He Felt Undeserving of His 'Sex Symbol' Status During 'Cheers' Fame
Everett was a Hollywood heartthrob during that time, but even he admits that he wasn't so secure in his looks. The actor felt that there was always a feeling of not being good-looking enough.
“Even work was about cruising, really. Trying to be attractive. Which obviously came from the feeling of not being attractive enough," he said. “My vanity for me wasn’t about ‘mirror, mirror on the wall, who’s the fairest of them all?’. Vanity is often a feeling of deep insecurity rather than feeling how fabulous I am."
The 67-year-old is now taking life easier, and the only exercise he gets is walking his dog. He's still active on screen, having had a guest role on Emily in Paris and playing Abraham in Mel Gibson's The Resurrection of the Christ: Part One and its sequel.
The Destiny You Were Born to Fulfill, Based on Your Birth Date
What’s your destiny? Your soul came into this life with a divine spiritual mission filled with karmic lessons, soul contracts, and so much more. You might have felt strongly that it’s your destiny to travel somewhere you’ve never been before or to find your soulmate. Breaking toxic patterns, pursuing educational feats, gaining power, and more could also strike a chord. With so many possibilities to choose from, you may feel unsure of what’s truly meant for you. Luckily, you can use your birth date to find your soul’s destiny.
Spiritual experts and numerologists agree that your destiny is based on your birth date. However, some birth dates share similar destinies based on the number they’re grouped by. All birth dates can be reduced to a single-digit number between 1 to 9. Birth dates that fall under the same single-digit number might share similar destinies, but each destiny is still unique to the individual. For example, birth dates that align with 2 are destined to find a soulmate, but their individual journeys will be vastly different based on their experiences and personalities. Read on to discover your destiny for birth dates 1 to 31, with insights revealed by expert Liz Simmons.
What’s Your Destiny, Based on Your Birth Date?Check if your date of birth is listed. Disregard birth months.
Born on the 1st, 10th, 19th, and 28th: Journeying Far & WideAdventure is calling those born on the 1st, 10th, 19th, or 28th. Numerology’s spontaneous and courageous 1 guides people born on these dates. These individuals are known for their independence. Sure, they get along well with others and form loving relationships, but they still value freedom above all else. People born on these dates have a deep desire to get out of their comfort zone. Exploring the world is their destiny. Travel will widen their worldview, challenge their beliefs, and help them grow as people. It’s even possible that these birth dates will relocate to entirely different countries once they’ve seen it all.
Born on the 2nd, 11th, 20th, and 29th: Find Your Other HalfLove is the most important thing to people born on the 2nd, 11th, 20th, and 29th. Individuals with these birth dates are known for their intuition and duality thanks to being guided by numerology’s lunar-ruled 2. Unlike others, these birth dates have always been acutely aware that their destiny is aligned with their soulmates. Part of this comes from feeling incomplete. Their desire for partnership will drive them to prioritize romantic and platonic connections. It’s not unusual for these individuals to share spiritual lessons with karmic partners and false twin flames in search of their love. Luckily, they’ll intuitively know when they’ve found their other half.
NEXT: The 3 Most Independent Zodiac Signs, According to Astrologers
Born on the 3rd, 12th, 21st, and 30th: Born to Share Your KnowledgePeople born on the 3rd, 12th, 21st, or 30th have something to say. They’re intellectually stimulated by 3’s curiosity and quick-wittedness. Jupiter also encourages these birth dates to embrace intellectual pursuits and ambitions. Between their numerological and astrological associations, these birth dates know that their destiny is aligned with education, teaching, and mentoring. It might have begun with teaching their peers and classmates throughout childhood. They could have been especially interested in school, books, and learning. As adults, these individuals are destined to find creative ways to share their knowledge. Some might go on to publish books, while others teach and mentor through traditional and non-traditional channels.
Born on the 4th, 13th, 22nd, and 31st: Leave Your Mark on the WorldWhat will someone who’s born on the 4th, 13th, 22nd, or 31st leave behind? These individuals are influenced by 4’s tenacity and determination, making them incredibly hard workers. People born on these dates spend their whole lives creating a lasting legacy. Some of these individuals will feel called to making content to share their knowledge and experiences with generations to come. Others might focus on leaving a physical marker of their presence. For example, someone with one of these birth dates might build a family home and own a lot of land to pass down to their loved ones. Regardless, these birth dates want future generations to know they were here.
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Born on the 5th, 14th, and 23rd: Here to Shake Things UpChange will be heralded by those born on the 5th, 14th, and 23rd. These individuals are influenced by rebellious Uranus and adaptable 5. Unlike other birth dates, people born on these dates don’t like staying in one place for long. Going with the flow, trying new things, and getting out of their comfort zone is their sweet spot. Since these individuals are destined for an ever-changing life, they have the rare ability to spring others free from stagnancy and conservatism. Embracing their wake-up, shake-up destiny is inspiring. It’s not unlikely that these birth dates will influence other people to choose freedom and authenticity even if it requires immense change.
Born on the 6th, 15th, and 24th: Break Generational CursesThe family folds will never be the same again once someone is born on the 6th, 15th, or 24th. People born on these dates care deeply for their loved ones thanks to being ruled by loving Venus. However, 6’s numerological influence says they must align with reciprocity and respect for their connections to work. Even as children, they knew it was their destiny to change their family dynamics. Challenging the status quo isn’t easy, especially if their family is dysfunctional. But this won’t stop them. Individuals born on these dates are destined to break generational curses by working on themselves, enforcing strong boundaries, and raising their families with more emotional awareness.
Born on the 7th, 16th, and 25th: Striking an Introspective BalanceIntroverts are born on the 7th, 16th, and 25th. Numerology’s secretive and mysterious 7 influences people with these birth dates. It’s not unlikely for these people to choose solitude over company. They may even feel like they’re destined to live alone, be it that they live a quiet life away from civilization or that they lack a soul family. As a result, they might spend more time alone than making friends or finding companionship. Regardless of what they believe, their destiny actually alludes to finding balance between socializing and seclusion. They’re meant to find the same level of comfort being around others as they do on their own.
READ: These 4 Birth Dates Produce the Most Legendary Grandfathers
Born on the 8th, 17th, and 26th: Failure Isn’t An OptionHigh achievers are born on the 8th, 17th, and 26th. People born on these dates are destined for success thanks to being guided by 8’s drive and willpower. They’ve always known that their aspirations, goals, and dreams would be the driving force behind their accomplishment. Even far-fetched ambitions, like wanting to become famous, aren’t unrealistic for these individuals. People with these birth dates will achieve whatever they’ve set their mind to. They don’t need ample resources or a robust support system to pursue their ambitions either. They can find everything they need to be highly accomplished within them. After all, they’re destined to win.
Born on the 9th, 18th, and 27th: Fill Your Own CupHumble servants and helpers are born on the 9th, 18th, and 27th. People with these birth dates embody 9’s service-oriented attitude. Everyone knows they can count on these birth dates. Since childhood, these individuals have always felt that it was their duty to be helpful and kind. While they mean well, some will take advantage. They could get stuck taking on more responsibilities and obligations than they can handle. Part of them might think it’s their destiny to be serviceable, but this isn’t true. Their destiny is learning to fill their cup before filling anyone else’s. Choosing themselves might be difficult, but doing so will give them a greater sense of purpose.
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'Saturday Night Live's Jim Downey Says Madonna's Disastrous Hosting Stint Nearly Got the Show Canceled: 'It Did So Much Long-Lasting Damage'
As expected from any show that's been on as long as Saturday Night Live has, NBC's hit sketch comedy series has seen its fair share of unremarkable guests over the past five decades.
But if you were to ask some of the key cast and crew of Lorne Michaels' legendary comedy series, the absolute worst guest might very well have taken the form of the iconic '80s pop star, Madonna.
In fact, several different SNL writers held such a disparaging view of the musical legend, they felt the closest SNL ever came to being outright canceled was due to Madonna's disastrous appearance back in the mid 1980s.
According to Cracked, many of the problems for the Madonna-hosted episode of SNL came about due to the musician's stage fright performing on a show as well-known as Saturday Night Live.
"She was terrified. She had never done this before,” remembered cast member Damon Wayons in SNL's oral history, Live From New York. “She was a wreck.”
Added to that were complications stemming from the show's younger, prominent cast members, many of whom had a background in formal acting rather than stand-up comedy. There were also issues stemming from the subject matter of the sketches themselves, many of which featured tasteless jokes about real-life controversies, like the Kennedy family brutally murdering Marilyn Monroe.
“It was an offensive, dreadful show,” SNL writer Jim Downey said in Live From New York. “I would say that the Madonna show has got to be considered one of the top five — I mean in an entirely negative way. It really crippled the new season from the get-go.”
“We were actually worried,” fellow writer Jack Handey explained. “That was the one year, I think, that people wondered whether the show was going to get canceled.”
Emphasizing just how poorly Madonna's hosting duties on the show were, Downey went on to add, "Years later, people would still say, ‘I haven’t watched the show since that Madonna thing.’ It did so much long-lasting damage.”
