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A great summer bag needs to strike a careful balance. You want something roomy enough to carry daily essentials like sunscreen, headphones, a wallet, and sunglasses, but not so large that it feels bulky or heavy on your shoulder. That's exactly why medium-sized shoulder bags remain such a staple during the warmer months: They offer plenty of functionality while still feeling light, effortless, and easy to carry from morning to night.

One especially popular option is the Ella Shoulder Bag. This highly rated style combines a sleek, minimalist design with practical features that make it easy to use every day. With six color options and a versatile silhouette that transitions seamlessly between occasions, it's the kind of bag you'll find yourself reaching for again and again.

Ella Shoulder Bag, From $199 at Coach Outlet

Courtesy of Coach Outlet

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The bag is currently available in four pebble leather colors — yellow, black, beige, and brown — along with two printed chenille options for those who want something with a little more personality. The soft pebble leather gives the bag a polished appearance while remaining relaxed enough for everyday wear. Inside, a recycled polyester lining adds a thoughtful touch.

Its size is one of its biggest strengths. Measuring 14.0 inches long, 12.8 inches high, and 2.5 inches wide, the Ella offers plenty of room for your essentials without feeling oversized. It comfortably accommodates items like your phone, wallet, keys, sunglasses, headphones, makeup essentials, and even a small notebook, making it ideal for busy days on the go.

Organization is simple thanks to an interior zip pocket and a secure zip-top closure. The zipper helps keep belongings protected while you're commuting, traveling, shopping, or running errands. It's one of those details you may not think about until you need it, but it makes a big difference in day-to-day use.

Another standout feature is the adjustable strap. The shoulder drop measures 11.3 inches, while the extender creates a longer 20-inch drop. This flexibility allows you to wear the bag comfortably in different ways depending on your outfit and plans. You can also shorten the strap for a more polished shoulder bag look or extend it for a more casual, hands-free feel.

Related: Coach Outlet Has Everything You Need to Complete Your Summer Internship Wardrobe

Styling the purse is refreshingly easy. For a summer-ready outfit, pair one of the lighter shades with a linen midi dress and leather sandals. If you're aiming for an elevated casual look, wear it alongside straight-leg jeans, a crisp white button-down, and simple gold jewelry. The clean shape complements a wide range of aesthetics without competing with the rest of your outfit.

This popular style has over 200 five-star reviews, with shoppers highlighting its quality and design. One reviewer dubbed it the “perfect everyday bag,” writing, “I love the secure zipper, how spacious it is, and at the same time it still looks so classy and chic. It’s definitely a staple piece!”

Another called it “classic rather than trendy,” adding, “This bag is a timeless, polished everyday bag with smooth leather and subtle branding. It’s lightweight and comfortable on the shoulder, perfect for daily errands, work, or casual outings.”

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For a bag that delivers style, practicality, and year-round versatility, the Ella Shoulder Bag is an easy choice. Its timeless design and thoughtful details make it a piece that's well worth investing in.

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You and your spouse planned well, had great investments, and now have a retirement account that’ll last you the next 30 years. You did it! But after a few weeks, suddenly the two of you feel lost, tense, and possibly even frustrated with each other. The routine of your lives has suddenly disappeared, and it’s beginning to put a strain on your previously healthy relationship. You aren’t alone. 

Who You Are

For professionals who have spent the majority of their lives in one field, their identity has been defined by what they do. So what happens to that identity when you retire? You’re no longer a Program Supervisor, Cardiac Surgeon, or Private School Principal.

The strain of losing that identity can bleed into your relationship. That’s the premise behind a recent piece published on Kiplinger by Retirement PsychologistRichard P. Himmer, PhD.

Related: Retirement Shock Is Real—Psychologists Say Most People Never See It Coming

An Unintended Pattern 

Himmer describes a pattern called collusion, in which one partner leans into filling the space while the other retreats.

“[The husband] wants to feel valuable. His wife wants to feel included. Neither is getting what they want, and both are doing precisely what guarantees they will not,” Himmer writes.

But Dr. Robert Waldinger, Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School, found that warm, loving relationships are the key to a long, happy life. In his book, The Good Life, Dr. Waldinger discusses how people in Western countries have become wealthier, but also more unhappy. It's a disconnection from others and a lack of deep personal relationships that fuel the discontent.

Related: I Tried 10 Different ‘Grandma Hobbies’ for 4 Weeks—Here’s the 1 That Actually Stuck

How To Fix It

Reinventing yourself is the key. Perhaps financial management is important for the husband right now, so he can ease out of his previous routine. Eventually, though, to maintain a healthy relationship, the couple will need to relearn who they are and what they want.

We don’t have to stagnate as we age. Finding hobbies you've always wanted to try or that sound interesting, and participating in them independently of your spouse, will give you more to share with them when you come together around the dinner table at the end of the day. Having hobbies to do together is equally important to continue to build and strengthen your relationship.

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Retirement is a huge life transition. Engaging activities will help keep you active and vibrant. Most importantly, however, it’ll help keep your sense of purpose and give you new and exciting things to learn and discover about your partner and your relationship. 

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

Every year, the broadcast networks change things up with cancellations, but the 2025–2026 TV season is the biggest overhaul NBC has made, cancelling 10 shows.

Some of those cancellations were certainly unexpected, especially the 30-year-old favorite for celebrity news and gossip, Access Hollywood. It, along with Access Daily, will continue to run new episodes throughout the summer, with the official end arriving at the start of September 2026.

It's the end of an era for NBC, as it is part of a shift to end first-run syndicated TV programming. As well as the two Access shows, Karamo and The Steve Wilkos Show will also come to an end.

NBC Cancels 10 Shows in the 2025—2026 Season

The four syndicated TV programs were certainly a shock, but they weren't the only big cancellations of the year. The Kelly Clarkson Show will also come to an end after seven seasons, although this wasn't a decision made by the network. Kelly Clarkson announced that it was time to end to prioritize her children, after the untimely death of their father.

At the start of May, two scripted shows were quietly canceled, one of which still has episodes to air after being pulled from the schedule after the Winter Olympics. Brilliant Minds and Stumble have been canceled. This is despite Stumble getting a 96% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

Unscripted content hasn't fared any better, with two surprising and almost silent cancellations. Deal or No Deal Island and On Brand with Jimmy Fallon will not continue due to low viewership ratings.

While no longer an NBC series, Law & Order: Organized Crime was also canceled after five seasons. This series was originally canceled by NBC and moved to Peacock for its fifth season. It then got a run on NBC in fall 2025, and then there was silence until just before crunch time for the NBC Upfronts in May 2026.

NBC Pushes for More Sports on Sundays

The 2026–2027 season will look very different, especially on Sundays, for NBC. The network is continuing its push for more sports after seeing success with airing NBA games on Tuesdays.

Sundays will be year-round sports night on the Peacock network. After Sunday Night Football ends in February of each year, NBC will then air basketball games, with the name of the slot changing to Sunday Night Basketball.

Then in the spring and summer, it's all about baseball, with Sunday Night Baseball taking over. It means less time for scripted and unscripted content moving forward.

Joanna Gaines, 48, is no stranger to dwelling in aesthetically pleasing homescapes. But perhaps her most notable home is the emotional one she’s built with her husband Chip Gaines, 51. The couple, who became household names from starring in the HGTV series Fixer Upper, are celebrating a marriage milestone, close to a quarter of a century. On May 31, Joanna took to her Instagram, sharing a series of photos celebrating her 23rd year of marriage with her husband and co-collaborator. 

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‘My forever sweet home. Happy Anniversary @chipgaines #23,’ she captioned the post, which featured a carousel of images with Chip throughout the years, including a shot from their wedding day in 2003.

Joanna’s post was met with equally adoring messages from fans of the Gaines’, with one user commenting, “Happy Anniversary to the sweetest couple” and another adding,  “Your forever fixer upper !! 😍Happy anniversary!!”

Related: Joanna Gaines Reveals the Inspirational Message That Starts Her Work Days

The Gaines' Love Story

The couple first met in 2001 at Joanna’s father’s auto shop in Waco, Texas, before getting engaged a year later. In the early dating stage, Joanna revealed that Chip had the opposite personality of someone she’d usually go for, and initially thought they weren’t a match.

 "I was always attracted to quiet guys, to the guy that you didn't know what he was thinking. When Chip and I went on our first date, he didn't stop talking! In my mind, I was like, 'Okay, this isn't going to work. Because he is not quiet, he's not mysterious. He's very just out there.' . . . Then I heard this voice say, 'This is who you're going to marry.' Call it God, call it whatever. This is the man you're going to marry,” Joanna told People in 2023.

Now, the couple shares five children and several businesses under their Magnolia empire. The list includes the Magnolia Television Network in collaboration with Warner Bros. Discovery and Max, the quarterly lifestyle print magazine The Magnolia Journal, and the shopping complex Magnolia Market at the Silos in Waco, Texas. 

Reminiscing further on their journey, Joanna opened up about the funny mishap that occurred during Chip’s proposal to her in 2002. While appearing alongside her husband as a guest host on Shark Tank in January, Joanna said she thought Chip was having a ‘heart attack’ when he got down on one knee. 

“He told me that we were going to go backstage to some singer’s, like a little venue. And so, I show up. He gets down on his knees, but he trips on his jacket,” Joanna said on the episode, which was shared on Shark Tank’s Instagram account, later adding, “So, I thought he was having a heart attack.”

Def Leppard fans have a few more chances to see the iconic '80s rockers on tour, as they've announced an extension to their ongoing 2026 tour.

The legendary '80s rock band revealed several fall tour dates across Mexico and South America.

On Monday, June 1, the official account wrote on Instagram, "We are very excited to announce Def Leppard Live 2026 Fall Tour dates in Mexico and South America with special guest @extreme_band. Rock Brigade members get first access to tickets and VIP packages starting tomorrow."

Extreme, consisting of members Nuno Bettencourt, Gary Cherone, Pat Badger and Kevin Figueiredo, is a rock band formed in Boston in 1985, with their peak popularity in the late '80s and early '90s.

Fans will be able to purchase tickets shortly after the announcement, with sales officially beginning Friday, June 5, at 10 a.m.

"Santiago on sale June 6, San Salvador on sale June 8, Quito on sale June 9, Alajuela on sale June 12," the post further specified.

Show dates will kick off on Oct. 15 in Hollywood, FL, and wrap up on Nov. 8 in Santiago, CL.

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The English heavy metal band formed in Sheffield in 1976, and is currently touring and performing across Europe, with stops in Sweden, Finland, Switzerland, Belgium, Germany, and more lined up in June alone.

The tour dates come after an announcement in Dec. 2025, bringing the band back to Las Vegas for a twelve-show run in February. Their return to the Colosseum at Caesars Palace marked their third Las Vegas residency, with the setlist blending timeless classics along with hits that have spanned decades

Since 1992, the band has consisted of Rick Savage, Joe Elliott, Rick Allen,Phil Collen, and Vivian Campbell, with hits such as their iconic anthem, 1987’s “Pour Some Sugar on Me,” crowd favorite “Rock of Ages,” and their only No. 1 hit in the U.S., “Love Bites.”

Their Vegas residency was followed by stops in India, Europe, the U.K., and Asia, leading to their most ambitious touring schedule in years, with fans getting a chance to hear their newest single, "Rejoice," for the first time ever after it was released at the beginning of the year.

As for new music, it's on the horizon! Elliot previously revealed that the band has already recorded several songs for a new album, which they are eyeing to release at the end of 2026 or early in 2027, telling ABC Audio, per K She 95, We’ve got a game plan, but it is kind of loose and we like it that way."

“It’s not like we’re being told by management and labels it has to be delivered on this day," he added.

Savannah Guthrie just dished on the "only time" she was jealous of her Today colleague, Jenna Bush Hager.

On the Monday, June 1 episode of the NBC morning show, Guthrie sat down with Anne Hathawayand Ewan McGregor, who were there promoting their new film The End of Oak Street.

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Naturally, the topic eventually turned to Star Wars, on which McGregor starred as Obi-Wan Kenobi, and The Devil Wears Prada, one of Hathaway's signature films.

“I mean, people have loved Devil Wears Prada 2. Are you breathing a huge sigh of relief?" Savannah asked Hathaway. "How good does that feel?”

To that, Hathaway admitted, "I think what you just said about the huge sigh of relief because we love it too, and we didn’t wanna come back and disappoint everybody. But the way that it’s been embraced, to the level that it has, has been overwhelming and beyond any of our wildest dreams.”

Related: Today Co-Anchor Savannah Guthrie to Host New Show

When asked if Hathaway would be up for a third film, she told Guthrie, “I hope so!”

Additionally, Guthrie made a bold request of the actress who plays Andrea Sachs opposite Meryl Streep's iconic Miranda Priestly. “OK, and then, can I get a cameo?” she asked. “Because Jenna Bush Hager got a cameo in 2, and it is the first and only time in our friendship I’ve been jealous.”

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/NXQ65STnYM0

In The Devil Wears Prada 2, Bush Hager played herself in a brief cameo as one of the media personalities invited to a lunch party and Miranda Priestly's Hamptons home.

"I had just arrived, and they were like, 'Jenna?' And I'm like, 'Who? Me?,'" Bush Hager recalled of her brief time on the set of the film during an April interview with Hathaway and Streep on Today. "'Meryl, Anne?' And I'm like, 'Wait, what?' Because there was no script."

The former first daughter also confessed, "I was prepared to be cut. Because I have friends—Willie Geist was completely cut out of Kung Fu Panda 4."

Bush Hager added, "I have to say, when they called, I couldn't believe it. I was like, 'Wait, me?' And it was the fact that ya'll welcomed me so lovingly."

The Devil Wears Prada 2 hit theaters on May 1 and is expected to be available on Disney+ and Hulu later this year.

Next: Nancy Guthrie Update: Retired FBI Agent Says "Hope Absolutely Remains" 4 Months After Abduction (Exclusive)

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Coming out as queer is tough. But after overcoming internalized homophobia, figuring out confusing feelings and navigating family members in the process, it can feel so freeing to accept who you are. However, even after all that—and for a lot of people in the LGBTQ+ community still in the closet or unable to affirm their sexuality or gender—being gay is an ongoing internal struggle.

Regardless of how you even feel about being gay in your own head, there is so much hate thrown our way that it's easy to fall into mental pits of darkness. While you can't just tell yourself, "Be happy" or "Don't be depressed"—and have that work—coming up with affirmations for yourself can be a good reset and remind you of positive truths.

Helping queer people come up with affirmations for themselves was a big component of illustrator and author Jess Vosseteig's new book, Affirmations for Queer People: 100+ Positive Messages To Affirm, Empower and Inspire.

"For me, affirmations help me break negative thought patterns and help put me in a more positive mindset," Vosseteig tells Parade. "As a chronic overthinker, I can often find myself thinking the worst and getting stuck in spiraling thoughts; so affirmations that speak to what I'm experiencing can be helpful to pull me out of that."

Vosseteig, a book lover since childhood, dreamed of one day having their art in a book, and now it's a reality. Affirmations for Queer People is a vibrantly illustrated book containing affirmations that help queer individuals overcome shame to embrace (and love) who they are. Vosseteig has illustrated book covers and created art for brands and campaigns, and with their new book, they create a beautiful and engaging way to teach people the power of positive statements while also giving queer people some great ones they can repeat to themselves daily.

"I was fortunate enough to be able to combine my love of books and educating people on queer identity and life with my love of art to make this book!" Vosseteig shares. "This book is the perfect combination of what defines me as an artist and a person, and it is also something I would love to read myself as a queer artist."

So, whether you're queer or have queer loved ones in your life, we asked Vosseteig to share their favorite affirmations for queer people across many different scenarios (including you, allies!). And with Pride Month right around the corner, what better time to add these to your brain? So, with their help, here are 50 creative, helpful and uplifting affirmations for queer people.

Related: Inspire Confidence and Find Inner Peace With These 101 Daily Affirmations

The Importance of Affirmations for Queer People

Being queer is tough. We're very much a hated minority for some; people in the LGBTQ+ community are targets for hate crimes, violence and legal discrimination. There are currently 493 anti-LGBTQ bills in the United States, per the ACLU, and the HRC reported in 2023 that there's an "epidemic of violence against transgender and gender non-conforming people."

It's draining to hear about these things while also experiencing discrimination in your everyday life. While we can't make those things just stop cold turkey, knowing how to lift yourself up is important for avoiding those moments of darkness.

Courtesy Adams Media

"Queer people are constantly having to fight for our rights and deal with adversity from society that we often don't get the opportunity or resources to put our mental health first, which is why affirmations can be such an important tool for queer people," Vosseteig shares with Parade. "I think that speaking affirmations and trying to reframe our thoughts can be really calming and reassuring, which helps queer people feel more at peace in a world that is trying to fight us."

They share that they want queer people to read their book and understand just how "important and powerful they are," empowering themselves in the process. Vosseteig also shares that these queer affirmations don't just benefit the LGBTQ+ community. They believe it's important for allies to understand queerness better through these positive statements while gaining some affirmations they can keep in their back pocket in case someone in their life needs them one day.

As stated before, we asked Vosseteig what they thought were the best affirmations for queer people, and they gave us some great ones for different scenarios below.

Related: 80 LGBTQ Quotes To Celebrate Pride Month, Encourage Equality and Remind Us All that Love Is Love

Best Affirmations for Queer People

1. "Being queer gives me strength."

2. "I am queer enough."

3. "I choose what my identity means to me."

4. "Change is possible."

5. "The world is better with me in it."

6. "I love being a part of a history full of strength." 

7. "I am a fierce and empowered individual."

8. "I am a true work of art."

9. "I am worthy of healthy and fulfilling relationships."

10. "I embrace the freedom to exist beyond the binary."

11. "I prioritize my well-being and self-care."

Related: 'Lesbian Bars Near Me': Where the 36 Remaining Lesbian Bars Are in America

Affirmations for Queer People in Tough Times A page from the book, 'Affirmations for Queer People.'

Jess Vosseteig/Affirmations for Queer People, Adams Media

12. "I refuse to let hate diminish my spirit."

13. "I will find the support and resources I need."

14. "I release any shame I've internalized."

15. "I surround myself with love and support."

16. "I am powerful and strong."

Affirmations for Queer People Who Want To Come Out

Canva/Parade

17. "I don't have to have 'experience' to be valid in my queerness."

18. "I can come out whenever it feels right to me."

19. "I don't have to come out in a particular way."

20. "My community supports me when others don't."

21. "I am not obligated to teach anyone how to respect me."

Affirmations for Queer People Who Are Feeling Dysphoric

22. "My gender expression is valid."

23. "I love my transitioning body."

24. "People of all genders get their period."

25. "I deserve to wear clothes that reflect who I am."

26. "I love my body in all its forms."

27. "Having feminine qualities doesn't make me less of a man."

Related: What Does Nonbinary Mean? Definition of the LGBTQ+ Term

Affirmations for Queer People When They're Feeling Like They're Not Enough One page from Vosseteig's book, 'Affirmations for Queer People.'

Jess Vosseteig/Affirmations for Queer People, Adams Media

28. "I am a fierce and empowered individual."

29. "I deserve the love I want."

30. "I am a true work of art."

31. "I am not a burden."

32. "I am enough as I am."

33. "I am worthy and strong."

34. "I deserve only the best."

35. "I deserve to live a life without fear."

36. "I am beautiful just the way I am."

Affirmations That Allies Can Say To Queer People in Their Lives

Canva/Parade

37. "Your identity is valid."

38. "I celebrate your courage in being your authentic self."

39. "You have the right to live without fear."

40. "Your voice matters."

41. "I support you just as you are."

Related: Here's How To Be a Straight Ally to the LGBTQ+ Community

Positive Queer Affirmations

Canva/Parade

These general affirmations are not from Vosseteig or their book, but are still great starting points for you to customize so that they work best for you.

42. "I am braver than I give myself credit for."

43. “[Gay/Queer/Lesbian/Trans/Ace] is not a bad or dirty word.”

44. "You don't owe anyone [androgyny /femininity/masculinity]."

45. "I deserve to take up space."

46. "I can create my own happy ending."

47. "I am not a stereotype."

48. "I deserve to live an authentic life."

49. "My interests/hobbies are valid."

50. "I live my life for myself, nobody else." 

How To Come Up With Your Own Queer Affirmations

While this list of 50 affirmations for queer people is a great place to start, you don't have to follow hard-and-fast rules to uplift yourself. You can create affirmations for any situation you're faced with, tailored to you specifically. When Vosseteig was writing their book, they considered the obstacles and issues queer people might face and came up with reassuring affirmations for those situations.

"So if someone wanted to come up with affirmations for themself, they could think about an area of their life they might need some reassurance or confidence in, and think of a short phrase that maybe you would tell a friend who is struggling," they share.

And while that's daunting to think about for yourself, it's something you might not think twice about when coming up with a friend, Vosseteig points out. So approaching affirmations that way can help create them, too. Plus, keeping it short also helps, so that "you can easily remember and repeat it," they say.

Overall, as Vosseteig said, affirmations for queer people can pull you out of a bad headspace and recenter your thoughts. And while affirmations, in general, are good for anyone who needs a pick-me-up, they're especially useful for the LGBTQ+ community.

"Affirmations give us power and confidence," they say. "Which queer people will always need to exist."

Source

Courtesy Alyssa Wilson

Jess Vosseteig (they/them) is a "Colorado illustrator making queer, feminist and inclusive illustrations." They've worked with brands and companies such as Penguin Random House, Dr. Martens, Facebook/Meta, Ulta Beauty and so many more. Vosseteig is also the author and illustrator of Affirmations for Queer People: 100+ Positive Messages To Affirm, Empower and Inspire. They sometimes take commissions via her Instagram (@jessvos_art), but you can also shop their work on their website. 

Related: What Does LGBTQ+ Mean? Every Letter Is Important to the Community

The most common COVID-19symptoms doctors expect in June 2026 are a lot of what we've come to expect from the respiratory illness, but that doesn't mean that you should let your guard down whatsoever—especially because the coronavirus can be super dangerous to anyone with a compromised immune system or pre-existing conditions that make them more susceptible to complications. This includes otherwise healthy older people, experts warn.

"COVID-19 will likely follow a pattern in 2026 that is consistent with the later variants of Omicron," Dr. Ayesha Bryant, MD, MSPH, physician, associate professor and clinical advisor at Alpas Wellness, who also specializes in epidemiology and public health, tells Parade. She adds, "The vast majority of people will experience COVID-19 as an upper respiratory tract illness. However, some will be severely impacted by the virus due to factors including their individual immunity, age and underlying medical conditions."

The "upper respiratory" type of illness Dr. Bryant mentioned is a bit of a relief, because it means that while COVID still is awful, for most people, it won't immediately do damage to their lungs, with symptoms being more localized to the nose and throat.

Dr. Jade Le, MD, chief of infectious disease at Access TeleCare, stresses the need for frequent COVID testing if you feel sick, especially since many COVID-19 symptoms in June 2026 overlap with those of the flu, common cold and even strep throat. That said, here's what you can expect to see if you are unlucky enough to catch it this month, including which specific symptom that faded from prevalence for a while is rearing its ugly, painful head again.

Related: How Long Does Natural Immunity Actually Last After a Spring COVID Infection?

What Are the Most Common COVID-19 Symptoms in June 2026?

Photo by Xavier Lorenzo on Getty Images

Most of the common COVID-19 symptoms in June 2026 will be what you're used to, including one very specific symptom that previously hit COVID patients hard and dwindled for a bit: A painful sore throat often referred to as "razor blade throat."

With that in mind, other symptoms are very similar to the ones we've seen in recent months. "At this time, the most common symptoms of COVID-19 are upper-respiratory or flu-like symptoms as seen with the common cold: runny nose, nasal congestion, sore throat and cough, fevers, chills, fatigue, headache, body aches and rarely nausea, vomiting or diarrhea," Dr. Le says "I have not noticed any unique or new symptoms or patterns, but there are reports of 'razor blade throat' or hoarseness or scratchy throat, leading to misdiagnosis of strep throat or allergies."

The good news? "Fewer patients experience the loss of taste or smell as was noted in 2019-2020," Dr. Le notes.

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What Are the Most Common COVID-19 Variants Right Now?

Dr. Nikhil Bhayani, MD, assistant professor at Burnett School of Medicine at Texas Christian University, tells us, "Based on the most recent surveillance data, the currently predominant SARS-CoV-2 strains are JN.1 descendants (particularly LP.8.1, KP.3.1.1, and XEC), all of which remain within the Omicron lineage. A newly emerging variant, BA.3.2, is also under active surveillance."

If BA.3.2 sounds familiar, that's because it's the cicada variant that first made waves around April 2026. What's good about that? Thankfully, it doesn't seem to be any more severe than prior strains, according to Dr. Le.

Related: Does the Current COVID Vaccine Protect Against the Latest Mutation?

How Can I Protect Myself from COVID-19?

To be about a decade late and paraphrase Hamilton, don't throw away your shot! Dr. Bryant urges you to get a COVID-19 vaccine or booster if you haven't yet.

"Vaccinations continue to demonstrate the greatest benefits in protecting individuals from developing severe forms of COVID-19 and from being hospitalized or dying from COVID-19," she emphasizes. "While vaccines may vary in effectiveness in their ability to prevent milder cases of COVID-19 infection as viruses evolve, they remain a critical factor in prevention of severe outcomes."

She adds, "Prevention of severe outcomes includes staying up to date on vaccinations, accessing early testing and treatment opportunities, ensuring improved air circulation indoors, wearing masks in high-risk environments or during outbreaks and providing rapid access to antivirals for high-risk individuals."

Also very important: Dr. Le reiterates the importance of testing and says to stay home if you're symptomatic or if you test positive after being exposed to COVID.

Dr. Bhayani also recommends saline nasal rinses as needed, frequent and thorough handwashing and maintaining an overall healthy diet to keep your immune system in tip-top shape to fight off infections in general.

Related: The #1 COVID Symptom People Are Ignoring Right Now, According to Doctors

What’s the Quickest Way To Get Rid of June 2026 COVID Symptoms?

If you do get infected, talk to your doctor ASAP to see if you're eligible for antivirals, experts universally advised, which can shorten the duration and lessen the severity of your COVID-19 symptoms.

Beyond that, you'll want to treat it the way you would a flu or bad cold, depending on what your specific symptom set is like: hydration and plenty of rest are key! From there, you can use over-the-counter medications like antihistamines for runny nose, acetaminophen or ibuprofen to manage your fever and aches and/or lozenges to ease a sore throat as needed—but be sure to talk to your doctor to make sure you won't have any reactions with other medications, drugs or supplements you make be taking already.

Also important to note: If you feel short of breath or have chest pains, get medical attention STAT!

Up Next:

Sources:

• Dr. Nikhil Bhayani, MD
• Dr. Ayesha Bryant, MD, MSPH
• Dr. Jade Le, MD

Recently, a man called into The Ramsey Show, hosted by financial expert Dave Ramsey, to talk about how his marriage is in shambles. The man hasn’t been honest with his wife about their $75,000 in debt, and now she’s started to check out of the marriage. The man is desperate to keep them together with Ramsey’s help.

View this post on Instagram A Problem Bigger Than Debt

In a post by Bankrate.com earlier this year, more than 2 in 5 U.S. adults say that keeping financial secrets is as bad as cheating on your spouse. That same piece shows that 45% of Americans say they don’t know everything about their partner’s finances. 

Men (47%) were more likely than women (39%) to commit financial infidelity, but the fallout from that is the real problem. As hiding debt and financial issues become more common, those issues begin to compound and cause even more stress. 

Related: A Raise at Work May Not Reduce Your Money Stress, But This Might

Ramsey’s Advice

As you can see in the clip above, Ramsey is gentle and compassionate with the caller. He reminds the husband that their combined incomes are far from bankruptcy. Ramsey continues by talking about how easy it would be for the two of them to plow through his debt snowball program and wipe away their debt.

Ramsey also reiterated that the two of them are a team, and it will take their teamwork to make this happen. While he didn’t give marriage advice or offer suggestions on how they could work through their current marital issues, he did say they should make the commitment to eliminating the debt together. 

Related: Dave Ramsey Tells Caller To Stop Using His Program And Do This Instead

You Aren’t Alone

It’s clear from the numbers above that financial infidelity isn’t unique or uncommon, but it is solvable. When the two of you commit to handling finances like a team, as Ramsey suggests, then you can begin to have complete transparency with one another. 

You aren’t alone in struggling with money management, especially in a tight economy. While debt is the symptom of this couple’s marital strain, it doesn’t have to be the nail in the coffin. As Ramsey suggests, if the two of them can come to an agreement and work together to eliminate the debt, they’ll start down the road to repairing their relationship. 

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Financial transparency is one of the key pillars of a happy marriage. As Ramsey states repeatedly to couples, you’re a team. Keeping the teamwork aspect in mind can help you navigate most of your marital issues.  

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

There have been a number of films and TV shows chronicling the tragedies tied to the Kennedy family: JFK, Love Story, Bobby, Chappaquiddick.

And now, another one is in the works, with Sasha Pieterse (Pretty Little Liars) set to lead a movie titled Rosemary. The psychological thriller will recount the tragic story of Rosemary Kennedy "from her perspective," Deadline reports.

Rosemary, who died in 2005 at age 86, was the sister of President John F. Kennedy as well as senators Robert F. Kennedy and Ted Kennedy. As a child, she reportedly exhibited developmental delays, and family patriarch Joseph P. Kennedy Sr. would later arrange a lobotomy when she was 23 years old — a procedure which left her permanently incapacitated, Deadline also noted on Monday, June 1.

"Rosemary’s story has been told in fragments," Pieterse, 30, said of the role, per Deadline. "What drew me to this project is how it explores her as a person, not a symbol, but a fully realized human being with dreams and vulnerabilities."

The film will be written and directed by Cory Todd Hughes and Adrian Speckert, known for Under Fire with Dylan Sprouse and Foster starring Ron Perlman.

Deadline reports that the contained thriller will “dramatize Rosemary Kennedy’s struggle with mental health, the devastating decision by her father, Joseph P. Kennedy Sr., to subject her to a lobotomy at age 23, and the long–lasting consequences of that choice.”

“This isn’t just a historical biopic. It’s a psychological journey told through Rosemary’s eyes, one that challenges the audience to reckon with how we define agency, dignity, and identity," Hughes and Speckert said, per the media outlet.

In addition to Pretty Little Liars and its spinoff, Pieterse is best known for competing on Dancing With The Stars contestant and starring in The Image Of You (2024) with Parker Young and Mira Sorvino.

Spanish tennis star Rafael Jodar is clapping back at critics after a video of him allegedly pushing a ball girl at the 2026 French Open went viral. The 19-year-old defended himself in a post-match press conference at Roland-Garros last week.

Did Rafael Jodar push a child at the 2026 French Open?

Here’s what supposedly happened: Jodar played a stellar game against American Alex Michelson on Friday, May 29. Midway through the five-set match, he walked off the court and seemingly (according to social media, at least) pushed a ball girl out of his way. 

Cropped and edited videos surfaced, leading the public to believe that Jodar had struck the child. Some clips from sites like Reddit were removed for spreading misinformation. And this put the events of the day into question.

Of course, it didn’t stop the speculation. One Redditor wrote, “There were already times in past matches when he was extremely rude to the ball boys/girls demanding water and stuff…that being said, I’m not 100% sure that he pushed the girl in this video,” while others said, “The full screen one shows how the girl slips with the tarp, and that is why she falls” and, “After rewatching the vid like 10 times he dorsn’t actually touch her. Took me til the 10th watch to see the girl moved back on her own and he was gesturing.”

What did Rafael Jodar say about the French Open ball kid controversy?

During a post-match press conference, a reporter asked the tennis star about the incident. Jodar spoke candidly, giving his view of the events: “I finished the third, the second, or the third set. I don’t remember which set it was and she was walking backward and I think she like…yeah, I mean, I didn’t like I didn’t push her or anything.“

He continued, “I just, I was telling my dad to give me the things that he was going to give me after a toilet break when I was coming back, but yes, she was in the middle, so I think she was like trying to get out of the way and she was going backwards, but I think she like fell, but not because I pushed her.”

Jodar added to his explanation, saying, “But obviously I appreciate all the work that the ball kids are doing, you know, and I know it’s difficult, you know, when the heat and the conditions to stay there, so I appreciate, and I could never, you know, push a ball kid.”

When the reporter pressed the matter, asking Jodar if he had indeed touched girl with his hands, the tennis player fiercely fired back, “No, I didn't touch her. No, no, no. I mean, I could never do that.”

Joy Behar is missing from The Viewthis week, but the longtime co-host says her temporary absence is not exactly a "hiatus."

Behar, 83, is away from the ABC daytime talk show as she travels to Europe to perform in her play My First Ex-Husband, which is being presented in London after its earlier New York City run. Her absence began with the Monday, June 1 episode, though Behar typically does not appear on Mondays anyway.

Entertainment Weekly reported that Behar is expected to miss this week and next week of live shows while she is overseas.

"There's been a lot of media attention on me lately because I'm taking off the next two weeks. They're calling it a hiatus. It's not a hiatus," Behar said on Friday's pre-taped episode of The View, according to EW. "I'm working. I have a planned trip overseas next week to work on my play, My First Ex-Husband, in London."

Why Joy Behar Is Away From 'The View'

Behar first discussed the planned absence on The View's Behind the Table podcast, where she explained that she would be traveling to Europe. Behar said she would first go to Paris before heading to London for the play.

My First Ex-Husband features stories about women looking back on marriages that shaped their lives. Behar wrote the play, which previously ran in New York City, before the international presentation.

Related: Joy Behar Clears the Air on Her Name Mentioned in the Epstein Files: 'I'm Not Guilty'

Behar is also appearing alongside Jackie Hoffman in London. The production gives Behar a chance to focus on her theater work while stepping away from her regular seat on The View for a short period of time.

Who Is Filling In for Joy Behar?

The View is bringing in several familiar faces while Behar is away. Former The Talk co-host Sheryl Underwood and journalist Kara Swisher are among the guest co-hosts set to appear during Behar's absence. Ana Navarro, who usually appears part-time, is also expected to be part of the schedule.

Whoopi Goldberg is also adjusting her usual schedule while Behar is away. Goldberg, who typically does not appear on Fridays, is expected to be at the table on Fridays during the temporary change.

Behar's absence follows other recent schedule shifts at The View. Alyssa Farah Griffin was away earlier this year after welcoming her first child, while Behar also missed episodes earlier in 2026 due to illness.

When Will Joy Behar Return?

Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images for Tribeca Festival

An exact return date has not been officially announced, but Behar described the absence as a two-week break. She is expected to return to The View later in June.

In the meantime, viewers may still see Behar in some pre-taped programming. She reportedly recorded weekend editions before leaving for Europe.

Behar has been one of The View's defining voices since the show launched in 1997. She briefly left the program in 2013 before returning in 2015, and she remains one of the panel's most recognizable co-hosts.

The View airs weekdays at 11 a.m. ET / 10 a.m. CT/PT on ABC. There is also The Weekend View, which streams on ABC News Live, Hulu, Disney+, and other platforms. The show’s site lists weekend times as Saturday and Sunday at 7:30 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. ET, plus Saturday at 12:30 p.m. ET.

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Alanis Morissette, the music legend who dominated the '90s and '00s with multiple smash hits and continues to put out new music and regularly tour, is celebrating her 52nd birthday today.

Morissette released her first studio album, titled Alanis, in 1991, when she was still just a teenager. Her second studio album, Now Is the Time, was released the very next year. However, because both albums were released exclusively in Canada, some see her third studio album as her true debut—and what a debut it was.

Perhaps her best known work to date, Morissette's 1995 studio album Jagged Little Pill not only sold an impressive 33 million copies worldwide and topped the charts but also went on to become a Broadway show of the same name, which Morissette also worked on. In fact, that production proved to be award-winning as well, ultimately taking home both Tony and Grammy awards, among others.

In the more than 30 years since Jagged Little Pill was released, Morissette has continued to put out music and go out on international tours. In fact, throughout her career, Morissette has released an impressive 10 studio albums, the most recent being The Storm Before the Calm in 2022.

Morissette also has a range of tour dates coming up this summer, with several concerts across Europe and the United States. These dates follow on the heels of a recent one-of-a-kind, intimate concert experience that Morissette offered fans in conjunction with Wells Fargo’s Autograph Card Exclusives series.

That event saw Morissette headlining a unique show for a small gathering of lucky fans at the 1,100-capacity venue, White Oak Music Hall, in Texas.

In addition to her musical endeavors, the legendary singer-songwriter has been working on thedeeply, a wellness hub that will bring together resources, events, articles and other opportunities, all focused on trauma and addiction recovery, the artistic process, community and more.

More information on that project is no doubt coming, but in the meantime, as this rock icon celebrates her 52nd birthday, fans can rest assured that she isn't slowing down anytime soon.

Chrishell Stause is celebrating a major moment for her love, G Flip.

The Selling Sunset star shared her excitement after G Flip's song "Bed on Fire" was featured in Prime Video's Off Campus, the buzzy new romance series based on Elle Kennedy's bestselling book series.

"So excited for my love @gflip having the biggest viral moment from being used in THAT scene in @offcampusonprime," Stause wrote on Threads, adding, "In Hannah, Garrett & G we trust!"

Stause also made a cheeky joke about the song's effect on listeners, writing that streaming "Bed on Fire" had been "proven to manifest" a very steamy kind of night.

Why "Bed on Fire" Is Getting So Much Attention Ella Bright and Belmont Carmeli in 'Off Campus' on Prime Video

Prime Video

Off Campus premiered on Prime Video in May and follows Hannah Wells (Ella Bright) and Garrett Graham (Belmont Cameli). The first season centers on their complicated fake-dating arrangement, which slowly turns into a real romance.

Related: Prime Video Quietly Renewed ‘Off Campus’ Before Season 1 Even Premiered

The show has already sparked plenty of conversation thanks to its emotional love story, hockey setting, and steamy scenes, especially after the success of Heated Rivalry. People described the series as a college drama with "plenty of steamy scenes and a surprising amount of heart," while Entertainment Weeklyspoke with the cast and creative team about one of the season's most talked-about moments between Hannah and Garrett.

According to EW, showrunner Louisa Levy said the team knew they had to handle a key intimate scene with care because it was such an important moment from Kennedy's book, The Deal. Cameli also told the outlet that the scene required careful planning before filming.

"Bed on Fire" was tied to one of the romantic drama's big viral moments, giving G Flip's song a new audience through a show that already had BookTok and romance fans paying attention.

Chrishell Stause and G Flip Have Shared Plenty of Public Support for Each Other

Photo by Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic

Stause and G Flip have often supported each other publicly since their relationship began. G Flip, an Australian musician, appeared on Selling Sunset after Stause opened up about their romance on the Netflix reality series.

The couple later married in 2023 and have continued sharing glimpses of their relationship with fans. Stause often posts notes of encouragement, sharing how proud she is of G Flip.

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Summertime is not always that easy. Even when your air conditioning is on full blast, there are still times when some additional air circulation is just as essential. If you're tired of battling stuffy rooms and restless nights, Dreo’s 36-Inch Ultra Quiet Standing Fan is about to become your favorite home essential. 

Originally $100, this high-tech tower fan is now just $55 at Walmart. With more than 7,000 five-star ratings, it's clear this is more than just your average fan.

Dreo Ultra Quiet 36-Inch Standing Fan, From $55 (was $100) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

The Dreo Tower Fan is beloved by shoppers for its power. The slim 36-inch design might look understated, but it packs a punch, delivering high-velocity airflow up to 24 feet per second. That means it can cool a medium or large room in record time, making it perfect for sweltering afternoons, cozy bedrooms, and everything in between. The built-in hidden carry handle makes it easy to move from room to room, so you can enjoy a cool breeze wherever you need it most.

Even better, this fan doesn't just blast air in one direction. Thanks to 90-degree oscillation, the Dreo fan sweeps air evenly across the entire room, so you won't be left with hot corners or uneven temperatures. Whether you're lounging on the couch, working at your desk, or trying to drift off to sleep, you'll feel comfortably cool from every angle.

If you're sensitive to noise, you'll love the bladeless, ultra-quiet design. Operating at just 34 decibels, quieter than a whisper, this fan is perfect for light sleepers, home offices, or anyone who wants powerful cooling without a distracting hum. Sleep mode automatically lowers sound output and dims the LED display, so you can enjoy undisturbed rest even on the hottest nights.

Related: Walmart's ‘Cute’ $12 Swim Shorts Are Stretchy, ‘Flattering,’ and Available in 19 Colors Ahead of Summer

Smart features make this fan a true standout. With four speeds and four modes (normal, natural, sleep, and auto), you can customize your cooling experience to suit your needs. The auto mode uses a built-in temperature sensor to automatically adjust airflow so your room stays just right without constant adjustments. And the included remote lets you tweak settings from across the room — no need to get up.

Safety is also a top priority with the Dreo Tower Fan. It has an ETL-certified, child-friendly grille, a fused plug, and built-in circuit protection, so you can leave it running with confidence. It’s no wonder shoppers love its power, safety, and ease.

"My husband loves it," one shopper wrote. "Very cold for me. Excellent choice for a fan. Great airflow, very cool settings."

Shop More Deals

• Dreo 42-Inch Bladeless Tower Fan, $72 (was $120) at Walmart
• Dreo Cool Mist Humidifier, $40 (was $60) at Walmart
• Dreo HEPA Air Purifier, $56 (was $90) at Walmart

All in all, the Dreo 36-Inch Ultra Quiet Standing Fan brings together powerful cooling, whisper-quiet operation, and smart, user-friendly features in one sleek $55 package. If you're looking to stay cool and comfortable this summer without blowing your budget, this fan is a flash deal you won't want to pass up.

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If you've scrolled X or TikTok long enough, you might have stumbled across the term or label "sapphic." You probably figured out that it's a queer term/label and that members of the LGBTQ+ community use it. But, as with all labels, it's not for everyone, and not everyone can use it.

Essentially, sapphic is an umbrella term meant for queer women. Here's all you need to know about the definition of sapphic, where it came from and how it relates to "wlw" and lesbians. 

Related: What Does the Lesbian Flag Look Like? Here's Why You Might See So Many Variations of It

What Does It Mean To Be 'Sapphic'?

If you want to get the most accurate definition of the word "sapphic," Dictionary.com states that "sapphic" is an adjective that can describe a lesbian or "a woman who is sexually or romantically attracted to other women…" As it says, it's an umbrella term used by women who are attracted to other women. You could also use "sapphic" to describe one of Sappho's poems or her stanzas, which we'll get to in a minute. 

Sapphic can be a label or whatever the queer person using it wants it to be. Basically, any woman or non-man who has the potential to be attracted to other women or non-men can use sapphic to describe themselves. That means lesbians, bisexuals, pansexuals and more identities can all be sapphic. And it's not a term that only cis women can use either; all women or non-men—trans, nonbinary, etc.—can be sapphic if they're also attracted to other women. But just because someone is sapphic does not mean that they're also a lesbian.

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Where Did the Word 'Sapphic' Come From?

As hinted above, the word's core points to where it originated, which is through the Greek lyric poet, Sappho. The term has been around since the 1500s to talk about Sappho's poetry, kind of similar to how "Shakespearean" is used for William Shakespeare's work. While "sapphic" can be used as an adjective or noun now, back in the day "sapphism/sapphist" were also used. All of those words have been around just as long as the word "lesbian," with both being used as umbrella terms in the 18th century for women who had sexual and/or romantic relationships with other women. 

Sappho quite famously wrote poems about women and girls in a very gay way. Sappho's queer ways and words are where we get the word "lesbian" comes from as well because she was from the Isle of Lesbos in Greece. There are only fragments left of her poetry, so there is debate on how sapphic she was, but her queer legacy lives on in the words "sapphic" and "lesbian."

Related: 45 LGBTQIA+ TV Shows You Really Should Binge-Watch To Celebrate Pride Month

What Is the Meaning of 'WLW'?

Photo by Nicolas Menijes/Canva

At this point, you might be thinking, "Isn't that what wlw means, too?" and you'd be right. The acronym WLW (or stylized online as simply wlw) stands for "woman-loving woman," AKA a woman-identifying (or woman-aligned) person who loves/is attracted to other women (or women-aligned people). 

It's harder to pinpoint where woman-loving woman came from or even where wlw originated, but it seems like the former has been a term used for queer women for a long time. And odds are the shortened acronym came about with the advent of the Internet.

Is WLW a TikTok Saying?

With TikTok being a fairly newer app, starting in 2018, there's no way it was invented on the platform, especially considering some of the earliest, relevant definitions on Urban Dictionary come from 2015.

But wlw does have a big presence on TikTok. The wlw hashtag has over 36.4 million posts at the time of this reporting and "#wlwcouple" has 1.3M posts.

Related: What Does LGBTQ+ Mean? Every Letter Is Important to the Community

What Are Some Sapphic Characters?

The terms "sapphic" and "wlw," while not invented by or for the internet, are still major staples in fandoms today. Whether it's a headcanon—something fans make up in their heads about a piece of work that isn't canon to the story—or an actual sapphic couple, you can bet a whole stan army stands behind popular wlw pairings in media.

Some examples of canon sapphic characters or couples are:

• Catra and Adora from She-Ra and the Princesses of Power
• Villanelle and Eve from Killing Eve
• Yara Greyjoy from Game Of Thrones
• Callie from Grey's Anatomy
• Rue and Jules from Euphoria
• Tara and Willow from Buffy the Vampire Slayer
• Santana from Glee
• Korra and Asami from Legend of Korra
• Taissa and Van from Yellowjackets

What Is the Difference Between 'Sapphic', 'Lesbian' and 'WLW'?

In the end, sapphic is just another label or way to describe a queer woman who is attracted to other women. Sapphic, along with wlw, is an umbrella term that can include lesbians, bisexuals, pansexuals and more as long as they're women or non-men who love/are attracted to women or non-men. Lesbians can identify as sapphic, but not all sapphics are lesbians. 

Related: What Is Lesbian Visibility Week? All You Need to Know About Celebrating This Week and Lesbian Visibility Day

It's been a memorable journey for Indiana Jones fans and the franchise's leading man, Harrison Ford, since the release of Raiders of the Lost Ark in 1981. Years later, while movie lovers everywhere continue to associate Ford with his Indiana Jones fame, director Steven Spielberg revealed that the role was initially meant for a different star.

In conversation with Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson, Spielberg admitted that he originally wanted 1980s icon Tom Selleck to play Indiana Jones. He explained, "What happened was George [Lucas] and I had interviewed a lot of people to play Indiana Jones. And we tested them, and they came to George's. He had a small office in Los Angeles across from Universal. And we tested a lot of actresses from Marion Ravenwood, and a lot of actors, especially for Indiana Jones. That was going to be whether we made the movie or not."

"We both discovered and decided that Tom Selleck should play Indiana Jones. He came in and he read for the part.... he was good. His test was good. I loved it. But there's where the strings of destiny didn't cross with Tom. We wanted Tom. We gave Tom the part, and then he had, which we didn't realize, an outstanding contract with CBS Network to do Magnum P.I."

Spielberg went on to say that as soon as former CBS Network Executive Vice President Bob Daly learned about Selleck's movie offer, production on Magnum P.I. began immediately. This ended Selleck's opportunity to become Indiana Jones' shoes and cleared the way for Harrison Ford to take on the iconic role.

Spielberg added, "What happened was George at the same time asked me to come look at a rough cut of the second Star Wars movie, Empire Strikes Back. I went up to Northern California, went to the screening room, sat in a room, saw Empire Strikes Back, which I adored. And when the screening was over, we were talking about the movie with about 30 or 40 people, I pulled George aside and I said, 'George, what about that guy who plays Han Solo to play Indiana Jones?'"

"George looked at me funny and said, 'But he's Han Solo.' I said, 'I know, but, you know, John Wayne might have been in the same Western forever, but he played different characters.'" After some thought, George caved in to Spielberg's vision, Harrison read for the part, and film history was forever changed.

Tom Selleck's breakthrough role as Thomas Magnum in Magnum P.I. cemented his status as a major TV star and Hollywood celebrity. The drama series lasted from 1980 to 1988, and Selleck went on after the show's finale to star in other television roles and mainstream movies, including In & Out, Friends, Boston Legal, Las Vegas, and Blue Bloods. In 2024, Selleck wrote about his missed opportunity to play Indiana Jones in his memoir, You Never Know, as reported by PEOPLE.

As for Selleck's famous mustache, Spielberg admitted he wouldn't have let the now 81-year-old Emmy winner keep it if he had been cast as Indiana Jones. "Maybe if the films were as successful, he could have demanded the mustache later," Spielberg joked.

A legendary rock star has reached a major new family milestone, marking a quiet but meaningful moment in his life away from the stage. The musician has become a great-grandfather for the first time after a new addition to his family.

The milestone involves Rolling Stones guitarist Keith Richards, whose granddaughter Ella recently welcomed a baby girl.

"30!! best birthday yet with our baby girl Luna," she wrote on Instagram on Saturday, May 30, celebrating her milestone birthday and officially introducing her daughter to the world.

Ella posed on a blanket laid out on the grass. Luna looked snug—with a full head of dark hair—as she snoozed beside her mom.

View this post on Instagram

Ella, the daughter of Richards' son, Marlon, and his wife, model Lucie de la Falaise, announced her pregnancy on Instagram in March. At the time, she uploaded a black-and-white silhouette photo, debuting her baby bump.

Richards, who has long been known for his decades-spanning career with the Rolling Stones, has largely kept his family life out of the spotlight despite his global fame. Over the years, he has occasionally spoken about the importance of family alongside his music career, which has made him one of rock’s most iconic figures.

The Rolling Stones guitarist, now in his 80s, continues to be celebrated not only for his influence on rock music but also for his long-standing presence in the industry. The band remains one of the most successful and recognizable acts in music history, with Richards serving as a key creative force behind many of their most well-known songs.

For now, little Luna is just beginning her journey, but she’s part of a family name that’s been tied to music for generations.

We all know there are terms and labels for people in the queer community. Some have to do with someone's sexuality—gay, lesbian, bisexual, etc.—and others have to do with someone's gender identity or expression, like transgender, nonbinary, etc. One term that falls into the latter category of gender identity is 'cisgender,' a term that you've probably heard before but might not know the ins and outs of.

Cisgender's definition isn't very complicated and might actually refer to you, dear reader. And that's not a bad thing at all. So, let's get into what 'cisgender' means, who identifies as cisgender, if the term is connected to the LGBTQ+ community and more.  

Related: What Does 'Sapphic' Mean? Here's What the Word Means and How It Relates to 'WLW'

What Does It Mean To Be 'Cisgender'?

While the term might seem daunting initially, it's really easy to understand. Cisgender just refers to someone who identifies as the gender they were assigned at birth, making 'cisgender' a label used in regard to someone's gender identity. Basically, the difference between cisgender and transgender is whether someone identifies as what's marked on their birth certificate.   

Looking at the numbers of who identifies as what, The Pew Research Center reported in June 2022 that 1.6 percent of all adults (with 5 percent of people aged 18 to 29) identified as transgender, nonbinary or a gender other than what they were assigned at birth. That means most of the U.S. population is "cisgender" (including, potentially, you!) even though it might be a different way of looking at yourself.

How Do You Pronounce 'Cisgender'?

"Cis" is pronounced like "sis," making the word sound like "sis-gender."

What Does 'Cisgender' Mean in Simple Terms?

Just like there's "heterosexual" to describe those who aren't gay, "cisgender" means that you're not transgender or have a different gender than the one you were assigned at birth. 

This means if you have a reproductive system that includes a uterus, vagina and ovaries, and you identify as a woman, you're cisgender. The same goes for people who have male reproductive organs and identify as men; they're cis, too. 

Are Cisgender and Straight the Same Thing?

No, "cisgender" and "straight" are two separate things. The former describes someone's gender identity, while the latter refers to a person's sexual orientation.

Related: 80 LGBTQ+ Quotes To Celebrate Pride Month, Encourage Equality and Remind Us All That Love Is Love

Where Did the Term 'Cisgender' Come From?

Photo by PJs/Canva

The term "cisgender" was added to the Oxford English Dictionary in 2015; however, it is not a new term by any means. As Historians.org reported, the prefix "cis" is Latin and means "on this side." The prefix "trans" means "on the other side of" or "across." You know, like the transcontinental railroad system. 

There are debates on where "cisgender" came from, but Health.com reported that transgender activists created and used "cisgender" in the 1990s to help distinguish between themselves and others within the community and at large.

Are Cisgender and Queer Connected?

As stated before, most of the US population is cisgender, meaning that they identify as the gender they were assigned at birth based on their organs and biology. However, being cisgender doesn't make you gay or queer or a part of the LGBTQ+ community. It's more of a scientific or inherent label than anything else—not something that makes you queer. 

Again, there are labels for people's gender identity—such as cisgender and transgender—and there are labels for their sexuality. This means that if someone is gay, lesbian, queer or anything else, they will use those terms. But cisgender has nothing to do with who you're attracted to.

"Cishet" is a common term that refers to those who are cis-gendered and heterosexual (AKA a majority of the population). But you can be queer and also cis. It really comes down to how people identify.

Related: What Does ‘Pansexual’ Mean? Plus, How Pansexuality Differs From Bisexuality

What Pronouns Do Cisgender People Use?

Photo by Ofelia Diaconu's Images/Canva

Pronouns don't have a gender. So even though she/her and he/him have been the common and go-to pronouns for presumed cis- or cisgender women and men, they can also be used by people who aren't cisgender. That goes for they/them and so on.

In that regard, them Community Editor, Wren Sanders, wrote that cisgender people "who don't feel comfortable" with others presuming their gender or the idea that comes with their gender can also go by they/them. They also write, though, that cis people who choose to use they/them pronouns should also check their privilege in how they're able to use their pronouns as such, but people who aren't cis—whether nonbinary or trans—aren't always respected for that choice. Or they're not respected for the choice to use she/her or he/him when they might not meet society's standards for those commonly "gendered" pronouns.

The idea of gender can be a tricky one. There are connotations and concepts that come with being a woman or a man in society. People might not want to identify with those perceptions, hence why they might identify as nonbinary or why someone who is cis-gendered might want to be a bit more gender-neutral with their pronouns. That's why, despite how someone presents their gender, make sure to ask what their pronouns are when you meet them.

Related: What Does the Bisexual Flag Look Like? All You Need To Know

I Am Cisgender: How Do I Help a Transgender Friend?

Okay, so you found out what cisgender means and that it refers to you. Great! What now? As we just wrote, there is an inherent privilege in being cis. You identify as the gender you were assigned at birth, meaning that you've most likely never had anyone mistake you for something other than how you present.

This, of course, isn't the case for cis queer people who dress more feminine or masculine opposite or outside the regular confines of their gender (i.e., a feminine gay man or a butch lesbian). But if you're a cis-woman, for example, and live your life presenting as such, you have cisgender privilege. You don't have to worry about changing your name or gender on government documents. You don't have to worry that you'll be misgendered or disrespected because of your gender. And you don't have to worry about being targeted or hate crimed due to your gender expression when you walk outside.

People in the LGBTQ+ community do have to worry about discrimination and worse if they're outwardly queer or in outwardly queer relationships. But when it comes to transgender, non-binary or other gender nonconforming people, they do have to deal with all of the above (and worse). There are, unfortunately, lawmakers and laws targeting trans people for just existing and wanting adequate healthcare. Not to mention that transgender people experience violent deaths and attacks just for their gender identity. 

So, what can you do as a cisgender person for transgender people living in your communities and across the country? Well, you're already doing one thing: educating yourself, which is big. Also, make sure you're respecting people's pronouns, labels and identities. Make sure not to ask invasive questions and don't assume someone's gender identity based on how they present themselves.

As GLAAD also noted, never ask for someone's dead name or refer to it as their "actual name." Make sure not to out anyone, and remember that transitioning looks different for everyone.

As always, don't assume things. It's great to have a conversation and get to know someone, allowing you to know their identity and more. This way, you can respect their pronouns and names as they're introduced to you as well. Always make your spaces inclusive and call out discrimination or disrespectful behavior around you. 

Related: Get To Know the History Behind 17 LGBTQ+ Pride Flags and What They Each Represent

More than two months after its surprise release, Neurosis' comeback album has received a major honor.

Consequence of Sound recently unveiled its list of the 33 Best Albums of 2026 So Far, and the influential post-metal band's latest release, An Undying Love for a Burning World, claimed the No. 1 spot. The publication praised the album as a "masterful work of post-metal" and called it a powerful response to the challenges of modern life.

The recognition marks another milestone for a record that arrived with little warning in March. Released through the band's own Neurot Recordings label, An Undying Love for a Burning World is Neurosis' first studio album in 10 years and their first since 2016's Fires Within Fires.

Why Is Neurosis' New Album Getting So Much Attention?

The album represents a new chapter for the band. It is the first Neurosis release to feature vocalist and guitarist Aaron Turner, who joined after founder Scott Kelly departed the group. Turner, who is also known for his work with Isis and Sumac, had been rehearsing with the band since 2024 before becoming a full-time member.

According to Consequence, the album succeeds because it balances the crushing heaviness that made Neurosis influential with themes that feel particularly relevant in 2026. The publication described the project as a soundtrack for confronting uncertainty and darkness while continuing to push forward.

The band's return has also been embraced by critics. An Undying Love for a Burning World currently holds an 89 score on Metacritic, indicating widespread critical acclaim. Reviews have praised its expansive songwriting, emotional weight and the way it builds upon the sound Neurosis helped pioneer over the past four decades.

Rolling Stone was very enthusiastic about the new work, calling An Undying Love for a Burning World the band's "most stunning album in years." The magazine praised Neurosis for channeling themes of isolation, anxiety and human connection into a record that is both emotionally powerful and sonically overwhelming, arguing that the album proves the influential group remains as vital as ever more than 40 years after forming.

Formed in Oakland, California, in 1985, Neurosis is widely credited with helping shape the post-metal genre and influencing countless heavy bands that followed. Now, with their first album in a decade, the group has earned one of the biggest accolades of 2026 so far.

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