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Who Got Nominated for an Emmy in 2026? See the Full List (Updating)
We are officially 68 days away from the 78th Emmy Awards, which will air Sunday, Sept. 13 live on NBC (viewers can stream it on Peacock the following day on Sept. 14). Hosted by Mariska Hargitay — the first woman to host the Emmys solo in 15 years — the night will feature the top winners across TV categories. On Wednesday, July 18, nominees were announced, and we have all the nominees, including snubs and surprises, below.
Here are the 2026 Emmy Awards Nominees, plus everything you need to know.
When are the 2026 Emmy Awards?The 2026 Emmys will take place Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026 at 8 p.m. ET.
Where will the 2026 Emmys take place?The 78th Primetime Emmy Awards ceremony will take place at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, CA.
Which shows are eligible for the 2026 Emmy Awards?The Emmy's will honor series, miniseries and made-for-TV movies that aired between June 1, 2025, through May 31, 2026.
Which show received the most Emmy nominations?The Pitt led all programs with 25 Emmy nominations, making it the most-nominated series of 2026. Hacks followed close behind with 24 nominations, the most ever for a comedy series in a single year. Other top contenders included Widow's Bay (19), Pluribus (18), Beef (16) and DTF St. Louis (13).
Biggest Emmy nomination snubs and surprisesOne of the biggest surprises came in the Outstanding Reality Competition Program category, where Dancing With the Stars earned its first nomination since 2016. On the flip side, longtime Emmy favorite The Amazing Race was left out of the category for the first time after winning the award 10 times over the years.
And don't forget Stranger Things. Despite earning technical and Creative Arts nominations for its final season, Netflix's series received no nominations for Outstanding Drama Series or any acting categories.
Nominations were revealed on Wednesday, July 8, at 8:30 a.m. PT on the Television Academy’s Emmys.com website with more rolling in.
Emmy winners Liza Colón-Zayas and Jeff Hiller announced the nominations.
- The Diplomat
- The Gilded Age
- A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms
- Paradise
- The Pitt
- Pluribus
- Slow Horses
- Your Friends and Neighbors
Related: Medical Doctors Say ‘The Pitt’ Gets It Right — Here’s Why That Actually Matters
Outstanding lead actor in a drama series- Sterling K. Brown — Paradise
- Gary Oldman — Slow Horses
- Mark Ruffalo — Task
- Rufus Sewell — The Diplomat
- Noah Wyle — The Pitt
- Carrie Coon — The Gilded Age
- Chase Infiniti — The Testaments
- Keri Russell — The Diplomat
- Rhea Seehorn — Pluribus
- Zendaya — Euphoria
- Patrick Ball — The Pitt
- Billy Crudup — The Morning Show
- Shawn Hatosy — The Pitt
- Gerran Howell — The Pitt
- Jack Lowden — Slow Horses
- Tom Pelphrey — Task
- Carlos-Manuel Vesga — Pluribus
- Taylor Dearden — The Pitt
- Fiona Dourif — The Pitt
- Allison Janney — The Diplomat
- Katherine LaNasa — The Pitt
- Sepideh Moafi — The Pitt
- Julianne Nicholson — Paradise
- Karolina Wydra — Pluribus
- Salli Richardson Whitfield — The Gilded Age
- Hanelle M. Culpepper — Paradise
- Noah Wyle — The Pitt
- Vince Gilligan — Pluribus
- Saul Metzstein — Slow Horses
- Salli Richardson Whitfield — Task
- Colman Domingo, Euphoria
- Ernest Harden Jr., The Pitt
- Jeff Hiller, Pluribus
- Jeff Kober, The Pitt
- Jonathan Pryce, Slow Horses
- Bradley Whitford, The Diplomat
- Brittany Allen, The Pitt
- Tal Anderson, The Pitt
- Tina Ivlev, The Pitt
- Miriam Shor, Pluribus
- Merritt Wever, The Gilded Age
- Shailene Woodley, Paradise
- The Diplomat ("Amagansett") – Written by Peter Ackerman and Debora Cahn
- The Pitt ("1 P.M.") – Written by Kirsten Pierre-Geyfman and R. Scott Gemmill
- The Pitt ("12 P.M.") – Written by Valerie Chu
- Pluribus ("We Is Us") – Written by Vince Gilligan
- Task ("A Still Small Voice") – Written by Brad Ingelsby
- Slow Horses ("Scars") – Written by Will Smith
- Abbott Elementary
- The Bear
- Hacks
- Margo's Got Money Troubles
- Nobody Wants This
- Only Murders in the Building
- Shrinking
- Widow's Bay
- Yahya Abdul-Mateen II — Wonder Man
- Steve Carell — Rooster
- Matthew Rhys — Widow's Bay
- Jason Segel — Shrinking
- Martin Short — Only Murders in the Building
- Quinta Brunson — Abbott Elementary
- Ayo Edebiri — The Bear
- Elle Fanning — Margo's Got Money Troubles
- Lisa Kudrow — The Comeback
- Jean Smart — Hacks
- Colman Domingo — The Four Seasons
- Paul W. Downs — Hacks
- Harrison Ford — Shrinking
- Nick Offerman — Margo's Got Money Troubles
- Stephen Root — Widow's Bay
- Michael Urie — Shrinking
- Tyler James Williams — Abbott Elementary
- Dale Dickey — Widow's Bay
- Hannah Einbinder — Hacks
- Janelle James — Abbott Elementary
- Kate O'Flynn — Widow's Bay
- Michelle Pfeiffer — Margo's Got Money Troubles
- Megan Stalter — Hacks
- Jessica Williams — Shrinking
- Hamish Linklater — Widow’s Bay
- Michael J. Fox — Shrinking
- Brett Goldstein — Shrinking
- Connor Storrie — Saturday Night Live
- Christopher McDonald — Hacks
- Rob Reiner — The Bear
- Betty Gilpin — Widow’s Bay
- Cherry Jones — Hacks
- Laurie Metcalf — Hacks
- Leslie Bibb — Hacks
- Jamie Lee Curtis — The Bear
- Kaitlin Olson — Hacks
- Lauren Weedman — Hacks
- Michael Patrick King and Lisa Kudrow — The Comeback
- Lucia Aniello, Paul W. Downs and Jen Statsky — Hacks
- Anthony King — Jury Duty Presents Company Retreat
- Katie Dippold — Widow’s Bay
- Quinta Brunson — Abbott Elementary
- Tim Robinson and Zach Kanin — The Chair Company
- Randall Einhorn — Abbott Elementary
- Christopher Storer — The Bear
- Andrew DeYoung — The Chair Company
- Lucia Aniello — Hacks
- Mary Lou Belli — The Ms. Pat Show
- Hiro Murai — Widow’s Bay
- All Her Fault
- The Beast in Me
- Beef
- DTF St. Louis
- Love Story
- Riz Ahmed — Bait
- Oscar Isaac — Beef
- Matthew Rhys — The Beast in Me
- Jason Bateman — Black Rabbit
- Charlie Hunnam — Monster: The Ed Gein Story
- Sarah Pidgeon — Love Story
- Sarah Snook — All Her Fault
- Claire Danes — The Beast in Me
- Sally Field — Remarkably Bright Creatures
- Carey Mulligan — Beef
- Richard Jenkins — DTF St. Louis
- Charles Melton — Beef
- Richard Gadd — Half Man
- David Harbour — DTF St. Louis
- Nick Offerman — Death by Lightning
- Jason Bateman — DTF St. Louis
- Linda Cardellini — DTF St. Louis
- Joy Sunday — DTF St. Louis
- Youn Yuh-jung — Beef
- Constance Zimmer — Love Story
- Dakota Fanning — All Her Fault
- Laurie Metcalf — Monster: The Ed Gein Story
- All Her Fault (Megan Gallagher for “Episode 8”)
- Death by Lightning (Mike Makowsky)
- The Beast in Me (Gabe Rotter and Daniel Pearle for “Sick Puppy”)
- Beef (Lee Sung Jin for “All the Things We’re Never Gonna Have”)
- DTF St. Louis (Steven Conrad)
- Beef (Jake Schreier for “It Will Stay This Way and You Will Obey”)
- Beef (Lee Sung Jin for “Oh, the Comfort, the Inexpressible Comfort”)
- DTF St. Louis (Steven Conrad)
- Black Rabbit (Jason Bateman for “The Black Rabbits”)
Related: Meet the ‘Big Brother’ Season 28 Cast — Including a Surprising ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ All-Star
Outstanding host for a reality or reality competition program- RuPaul Charles, RuPaul’s Drag Race
- Alan Cumming, The Traitors
- Kristen Kish, Top Chef
- Ariana Madix, Love Island
- Jeff Probst, Survivor
- The Daily Show
- Jimmy Kimmel Live!
- Last Week Tonight with John Oliver
- The Late Show with Stephen Colbert
- Saturday Night Live
- The Apple Music Super Bowl LX Halftime Show Starring Bad Bunny
- 83rd Annual Golden Globes
- 68th Annual Grammy Awards
- The Oscars
- 78th Annual Tony Awards
- Dave Chappelle: The Unstoppable...
- The Muppet Show
- Nikki Glaser: Good Girl
- Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour | Final Show
- Wicked: One Wonderful Night
- Steve Harvey, Celebrity Family Feud
- Ken Jennings, Jeopardy
- Colin Jost, Pop Culture Jeopardy
- Jimmy Kimmel, Who Wants to Be a Millionaire
- Martin Short, Match Game
- Celebrity Family Feud
- Jeopardy
- The Price Is Right
- Wheel of Fortune
- Who Wants to Be a Millionaire
- Antiques Roadshow
- Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives
- Love Is Blind
- Queer Eye
- Shark Tank
- America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders
- Love on the Spectrum
- RuPaul’s Drag Race: Untucked
- Summer House
- Welcome to Wrexham
- Heads of State
- Miss You, Love You
- People We Meet on Vacation
- Remarkably Bright Creatures
- Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan: Ghost W
The 78th Emmys will air live on NBC on Sept. 13. It will stream the following day on Peacock.
Next, From Netflix’s ‘Little House’ Reboot to ‘Big Brother’: What to Watch This Week
1984 Power Ballad, Originally a Flop, Climbed the Charts 40 Years Later
The 1980s were an era of music dominated by pop-synth and new wave hits, but one song did not reign supreme at first release. In fact, it never even broke through the Top 50 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Fast-forward to the present day, Alphaville's 1984 release, "Forever Young," is a timeless and instantly recognizable track, despite only peaking at No. 65 on the US Billboard Hot 100 (the second time it charted in 1988-89 following a re-release) and No. 98 on the UK Singles chart. Initially, it saw very minimal success, ranking only at No. 93 in spring 1985.
Across the pond, though, it hit No. 1 in Sweden and No. 4 in Germany.
It later became an enduring '80s anthem in the States. And thanks to a few different revivals, including Jay-Z's ultra-popular Top 10 hit, 2009's "Young Forever," and the power of the internet, it saw a resurgence in 2024 that sent it all the way to No. 1 on the TikTok Billboard Top 50 chart—four decades after its release. "The TikTok Billboard Top 50 is a weekly ranking of the most popular songs on TikTok in the United States based on creations, video views and user engagement," the outlet explained.
Like many decades-old songs introduced to the younger generations, a social media trend is to thank for the achievement.
Alphaville, formed in Münster, Germany, in 1982 by Marian Gold, Bernhard Lloyd, and Frank Mertens, reflected on the hit last year, sharing that the very first song the trio ever wrote together was "Forever Young."
"It was meant to be a dance track," Lloyd, 66, expressed in the group's documentary, adding that it was inspired by Soft Cell's "Torch."
"That sounds great, let's try to do something like that," he remembered thinking at the time.
Adversely, the premise behind the song is actually disheartening, and is an embodiment of the fear of nuclear war, influenced heavily by the political climate of the early 1980s when it was written. "Let's dance in style, let's dance for a while / Heaven can wait, we're only watching the skies / Hoping for the best but expecting the worst / Are you gonna drop the bomb or not? / Let us die young or let us live forever," the lyrics convey.
Still, it may have been a flop on the charts, but fans tell a different story. "Forever Young is by far one of the greatest Songs of all time. It's so timeless [sic] that it's actually forever young," one wrote in the comments section of a YouTube video. Another agreed, confirming, "When the song came out in 1984, it was so popular among my generation that I remember all my classmates singing to it. Yet the local radio which chartered hit songs never ranked this among the top hits of the nation. But we always considered Forever Young as the 'unofficial' number 1 hit of the nation irrespective of what the official charts may have stated.
A third echoed that sentiment, adding, "This song 'Forever Young' was the theme for my school’s prom in 1991. Every time I hear it, I am brought back to being 18."
Speaking to the timelessness of the music, Gold, 72, noted in a separate interview, "We are very grateful that we have written songs like these, and that they have become so successful. It's just a great privilege to have songs like that in your luggage when you're touring."
Alphaville is also known for such hits as "Big in Japan," "Sounds Like a Melody," and "Dance With Me."
Related: 1982 Classic, Named No. 1 Hit Song, Became a Timeless Feel-Good Anthem
Delta Is Launching Nonstop Flights Between Los Angeles and Newark, Giving Travelers Another Cross-Coastal Flight Option
Travelers flying between the East and West coasts will soon have another nonstop option. Delta Air Lines has confirmed it will launch twice-daily nonstop service between Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) beginning April 12, 2027. The route bridges two major hubs as airlines continue expanding premium offerings on some of the country's busiest business and leisure corridors.
The airline will operate the route using its fuel-efficient Airbus A321neo, offering passengers a modern aircraft designed with longer domestic flights in mind. The new service is expected to appeal to everyone from business travelers commuting between the nation's entertainment and financial centers to vacationers looking for a more convenient way to cross the country.
"Los Angeles plays a central role in Delta's network, and this new nonstop service to Newark reflects our commitment to connecting customers across key business markets," Scott Santoro, Delta's Vice President for Los Angeles, reportedly shared in a statement.
View this post on InstagramThe new nonstop flights restore a direct link between Southern California and northern New Jersey, providing an alternative to nearby New York-area airports while offering convenient access to Manhattan, which is roughly 15 miles from Newark Liberty International Airport.
The airline plans to operate two flights each day in both directions, giving travelers more flexibility whether they're planning a quick business trip or a longer vacation.
Passengers flying the route will travel aboard Delta's Airbus A321neo, not the airline's new 44-seat first-class seat version. The aircraft are equipped with 20-seat first-class cabins and main cabins that are split between 60 extra-legroom seats and 114 standard economy seats.
For travelers, the biggest benefit is time savings. A nonstop flight eliminates the uncertainty of connecting itineraries, reduces the chance of missed connections or delayed baggage, and can shave several hours off a coast-to-coast journey.
"Scott Santoro, vice president of Los Angeles and Sales-West at Delta, described the new route as reflecting the airline's "commitment" to the West Coast metropolis.
"By offering twice-daily flights on our Airbus A321neo, we're delivering more choice, comfort, and reliable connectivity between the East and West Coasts," Santoro said, according to The Points Guy.
The launch also adds another competitive option on one of America's most heavily traveled air corridors, where airlines continue investing in premium cabins and enhanced passenger experiences to attract both business and leisure customers.
These 3 Birth Months Walk Away From What No Longer Serves Them Beginning 7/9
On July 9, 2026, Venus enters Virgo, encouraging a shift in how we approach love, self-worth, and the things we value most. Astrologers note that Venus is traditionally considered to be in “fall” in Virgo, meaning the planet of love, beauty, and abundance may feel challenged by Virgo’s desire for perfection, discernment, and high standards.
If you’ve noticed yourself becoming more aware of your loved ones’ flaws, hearing your inner critic grow louder, or questioning whether certain situations truly align with your worth, you’re not alone. This transit invites each of us to look at our relationships, priorities, and choices with greater honesty.
According to astrologers, three birth months may feel this energy more strongly than others. From July 9 to August 6, individuals born in these months may experience a powerful period of reflection, refinement, and growth as they learn to trust their intuition about what deserves a place in their lives.
View this post on Instagram Which Birth Months Are Not Settling For Less Starting July 9, 2026?Check your birth month below for beginner-friendly astrological insights.
EXPAND: Everyone Needs a Comfort Show — Here's Yours, Based on Your Birth Date
January - Stop Settling for Less Than You WantPeople born in January are encouraged to overcome any limiting beliefs that make them feel small. If you're holding back from what you truly want in love, in your career, or in your personal life, it's time to stop silencing your desires. Sure, you may need to work out the logistics. However, don't forget that when you open yourself up to new opportunities, the universe can bring you the blessings you seek in surprising and miraculous ways.
Whether you identify as a determined Capricorn or an innovative Aquarius, your strong focus is one of your greatest strengths. However, this same quality can cause you to stubbornly cling to things that no longer benefit you. Now is the time to recognize that you deserve more. Start exploring your possibilities. Remember, there is more than one path to achieving your goals.
MORE: These 3 Birth Dates Are About to Experience a Lucky Turn Starting 7/7
May - Speak Your Truth in RelationshipsIf you were born in May, you might experience a disconnect between what you desire in romance and your current reality over the next few weeks. Rather than being too hard on yourself, try to adopt a more balanced perspective. It's also crucial not to be overly critical or unfair toward your lover, so consider clearly stating your boundaries and needs to avoid any confusion.
For singles, this may be a good time to take a brief pause and focus on yourself instead of overloading your schedule with dates that don't align with your life goals. Whether you're a sensual Taurus or a social Gemini, you love love. However, it's important not to silence any troubling feelings. Bottling up your emotions isn't harmony; it's suppression. Biting your tongue can create unintended distance between you and the people who matter most. Speak your mind, respectfully but directly.
READ: Your Perfect Pet Match, Based on Birth Month
September - Clearing Space for Better OpportunitiesIf you were born in September, get ready for a time of honest self-reflection. While your charisma may increase, attracting attention, opportunities, and growth, you may still feel down. Initially, nothing may seem to resonate with you during this cosmic period. However, over the next few weeks, you'll likely begin to let go of things that don't align with your true worth.
Be patient with yourself during this process. As you create space for reflection, you'll arrive at insights that resonate with your intuition, even if they are bittersweet. Whether you identify more with the mindful nature of Virgo or the charm of Libra, you're encouraged to prioritize yourself in the coming weeks. Overall, you can expect to gain more confidence; however, it's essential to remove any external barriers that sometimes hold you back from fully embracing who you are, just as you are.
UP NEXT:
11 'Big Brother' Evictions Fans Still Can't Believe Actually Happened
It is remarkably vulnerable to be a Big Brother houseguest. We're not just talking about the pressures of being taped 24/7 while millions of people online follow your every move, from the deals you make to the food you cook. But in theory, the weekly competitions can be won by anyone in the house, meaning you can go from nominating people one week to being on the block yourself the next. And that doesn't even speak to the last-minute vote flips that we've seen over the years, which have sent out some of the biggest power players and completely changed the course of the season.
With Big Brother 28 set to premiere with a special 90-minute episode on Thursday, July 9, here are our picks for 11 of the most shocking evictions in the CBS show's history.
Screenshot courtesy of CBS
Introduced in Season 3, the Power of Veto changed the game by allowing someone to save a nominee, forcing the Head of Household to nominate someone else in their place. Marcellas Reynolds was the benefactor of its debut, getting taken off the block in the very first week of the season by Gerry Lancaster. Fast-forward to the Final Five, and Marcellas won the final Veto competition of the season. Sitting on the block alongside his closest ally Amy Crews, it should be an absolute no-brainer that he use it on himself to guarantee his place in the game. But, feeling safe and not wanting HoH Jason Guy to have to put up another person, he shockingly decided not to play it. It was a risky decision, and a game-ending one at that. The secret duo of Jason and Danielle Reyes took advantage of Marcellas's mistake, sending him spiraling out of the house. It's a moment memorialized by Julie Chen Moonves's slap upside the head, a sound that still reverberates with houseguests to this day.
Dustin Erikstrup (Season 8) Dustin Erikstrup reacts to his blindside on 'Big Brother 8'Screenshot courtesy of CBS
Big Brother 8 was driven by two major storylines. The first is Eric Stein, who was tasked to play the role of "America's Player," with his actions being decided via fan vote. The second is the estranged father-daughter duo of Dick and Daniele Donato, who went from not speaking to one another before entering the house to becoming each other's closest allies. And, in Week 6, both of Season 8's plots collided in a shocking way.
Dick and Daniele were demonstrably dead to rights. The two had been nominated against each other, and while Dick was able to take Daniele off with the veto, it seemed to be last call for the bartender. It was so obvious, in fact, that Dustin Erikstrup offered himself up as a pawn to replace Daniele, confident he'd have the votes to stay. He had no idea that one of his allies would have received the directive from America to evict him. With his new mission, Eric put in the work, getting together with Dick, Daniele and his showmance Jessica Hughbanks to create a new majority. Dustin was eagerly awaiting the opportunity to sit right next to Dick as he was evicted. But a power shift unbeknownst to him made him realize it would be Evel Dick getting the last laugh, cementing a classic Big Brother notion: Pawns go home.
E Network
We've just mentioned an example that uses a twist known only to one player to completely change the status quo. And nowhere is that more prevalent than Big Brother 11. Jessie Godderz was the sole returnee that summer, and the bodybuilder was practically deadlifting the competition. Whether it was his veteran experience or the majority alliance he had built around him, "Mr. Pectacular" was sitting incredibly pretty the first five weeks of the game. He and the rest of the houseguests had no idea that America had spent the week voting for one person to completely dismantle the hierarchy.
Jeff Schroeder received the power of the Coup d'Etat, which allowed him to actually overthrow an HoH and replace their nominations with his own. On Day 40, two of Jeff's allies were sitting on the block, one of them soon to be sent to jury. But before you could say "technotronics," he staged a coup, declaring his own HoH reign. Of course, with this newfound power, Jeff took a shot at the head of the other side. An hour before, Jessie was completely safe from eviction, and stood a good chance of taking it all. Now, he was the first member of the jury. The move sent massive shockwaves through the house, as Chima Simone (whose HoH was overthrown in the coup) wound up getting ejected from the show due to her resentment and anger for the twist, which led to her breaking numerous production rules.
Related: Julie Chen Moonves Reveals the 5 ‘Big Brother’ Moments She Wishes She Could Relive — and One Explains a Massive Rule Change (Exclusive)
Courtesy of CBS
While Jeff caused a shocking eviction in his first season, his own would wind up being the next entry on this list. Jeff and his then-girlfriend Jordan Lloyd returned two seasons later, part of three pairs of returnees who came back into the house for Big Brother 13. Yet again, the veterans dominated the season, until Daniele eventually decided she no longer wanted to be a fifth wheel. Despite her and her allies taking shots at Jeff, he was able to evade eviction with competition wins. In fact, in Week 7, he won both HoH and Veto, using his power to ensure Daniele stayed on the block, sealing her rival's fate.
After Daniele walked out of the door, however, Jeff and the rest of the houseguests were surprised with two of the most dreaded words in Big Brother history: Double eviction. All of a sudden, they were thrown into a week's worth of competitions in mere minutes, with someone else going home that very night. And wouldn't you know it, the two people who won HoH and Veto just happened to be Daniele's remaining allies! Jeff had spent the week getting revenge on Daniele for taking out one of his closest allies. And, at the end of the night, the clown shoe was on the other foot.
Courtesy of CBS
Let's stick with double eviction night for our next one. Through the first half of the season, Judd Daughtery was one of the most popular people in the Big Brother 15 house. He was well-liked by everyone, which helped put him in the middle of everything. And, like a fish in a stream, that's exactly what got him caught by the proverbial double eviction bear.
HoH Aaryn Gries had also won Veto that night. And, taking advantage of the chaotic scrambling during commercial breaks, Helen Kim made her move. She made the pitch for Aaryn to use the Veto on her own nominees and put up Judd, labeling him a "schemer" who was playing them all. It was a last-minute pitch, but ultimately a winning one, as she went through with the move. Judd spent his remaining minutes begging for his life in the house, but the die was already cast. The rest of the houseguests, albeit through tears, decided to take him out. It was a sudden turn of events for Judd and fans alike, though the former would get some redemption by subsequently returning to the game a couple of weeks later.
Courtesy of CBS
On paper, the Final 3 eviction should be the most straightforward of the entire Big Brother season. The final competition winner holds all the power, determining who will sit next to them at the Final Two. And you'd figure, after months in the house, they would have enough of a pulse on the game to know who they would have an easier time beating in the end. But there's always an exception to the rule. And in this case, that exception's name is Cody Calafiore.
It's the final day of Big Brother 16. Cody won the final HoH, giving him the lone power to evict. His first option was Derrick Levasseur, someone he had been working alongside the entire game, but was inarguably the biggest player of the season, someone who had unquestionably dominated from beginning to end. His second was Victoria Rafaeli, a perennial outsider and pawn who had essentially been brought to the end as a non-threat. To everyone inside and outside the house, the decision was open and shut: Take out Derrick, collect the money. But Cody shocked the world when he chose to honor his loyalty to his number one, taking the much harder path — and ultimately the losing one. His choice to keep his fellow "Hitman" hit hard with the jury, giving Derrick the win and cementing him as one of the greats in what's regarded to this day as one of the worst decisions in Big Brother history. Luckily, this story has a happy ending, as Cody would return six years later and finally get the win in his own right.
Related: 'Big Brother 28' Cast Name Their Favorite Players — and One Has a Shocking Connection Outside of the House (Exclusive)
Courtesy of CBS
Austin Matelson was sitting pretty on Day 89 of Big Brother 17. True, he was literally sitting on the block, next to Steve Moses. But that was merely a formality. In his opinion, he had an ironclad alliance with Vanessa Ruosso and a showmance with Liz Nolan. That's all he needed at the Final Five. He had no idea that Vanessa was looking at a prime opportunity to deliver a knockout to the pro wrestler, feeling he was a bigger threat than Steve. And so, the man with an identity known as "Judas" was betrayed for 500,000 pieces of silver, as she served as the tiebreaking vote to send him packing. What's worse: Julie had called a surprise eviction, right in the middle of the day. And so Austin was sent out not only blindsided but also barefoot and dumbfounded, declaring Vanessa "can't win the game." Victims, aren't we all.
Kaitlyn Herman (Season 20) Kaitlyn Herman attempts to solve a puzzle that can get her back in the game on 'Big Brother 20'Screenshot courtesy of CBS
This entry is admittedly a little unorthodox. But then again, so is the situation. In Week 4 of Big Brother 20, it became public knowledge that the eviction would be a little different. Sam Bledsoe had received a "Bonus Life" power that, if she used it, would allow her to survive after eviction by winning an individual competition. She kept it until the week that it expired, which would then apply it to simply whoever would be evicted. It just so happened that Sam herself had won HoH that week, with one of her nominations being Kaitlyn Herman.
Despite Season 20 consisting of a back-and-forth between two sides of the house, everyone was surprisingly unanimous in evicting Kaitlyn. That's because they all knew she would have a shot to get back in the game, especially when they saw she had to put together a simple six-piece puzzle. But, in a true bout of "expect the unexpected," Kaitlyn crumbled under the pressure, as did her puzzle. She failed to put it together in time, creating an elimination that left the houseguests, fans and even producers allegedly stunned.
Photo: Sonja Flemming/CBS
It was only Week 3 of Big Brother 24, but Ameerah Jones was already confidently declaring how easy the game was for her. Despite a close ally walking out of the house, she had put in the work to surround herself with multiple majority alliances. She was a key figure in the blindside of Joe "Pooch" Pucciarelli the previous week. Even when the "Festie Besties" twist came along, her alliance gamed the system, making sure they were set up to be partnered with an outsider who would always go over them.
She — and half the house — had no idea that, while they slept, the rest of the house woke up. A couple of Ameerah's allies, sensing they were on the bottom, pulled in a few of the outsiders, alongside the current HoH. And so the infamous "Leftovers" alliance was born, becoming the new clandestine majority. As their first course of action, they went straight for who they saw as the most powerful person of their new opposition: Ameerah. She and her alliance were blindsided and gobsmacked when she was put up as the renom. And the fallout was momentous, as the Leftovers attempted to feign their own shock and ignorance behind a move they plotted under the cover of darkness.
Related: ‘Big Brother’ Alumni Reveal the One Change They’d Make to the Show (Exclusive)
Sonja Flemming/CBS
We are truly spoiled when it comes to picking shocking evictions from Big Brother 26. There's Cedric Hodges's Pentagon alliance getting blown up, along with his entire game, leading to his emotional elimination. There's fan favorite Tucker Des Lauriers who, after winning a competition nearly every week, got flipped on after he allowed himself to be nominated as a pawn. But we're ultimately going to go with the eviction of Joseph Rodriguez, just because of the absolutely insane series of events that got us to the final outcome.
Quinn Martin's HoH reign was, to put it kindly, a mess. His in-house crush, Leah Peters, chose to use the Veto on consensus target Angela Murray, despite Quinn begging her not to. Despite being in an alliance with Joseph, he chose to still put him up as a pawn, figuring Rubina Bernabe and Kimo Apaka would be easy pickings by comparison. On eviction night, Rubina won a clutch "A.I. Arena" competition, while Kimo gave an emotional plea, talking about how much this game means to him and his connection to his late brother. It was such a compelling argument, especially in a moment that people usually dedicate to shoutouts, that caused the unthinkable to happen: Not one, but two people swapped their votes in the moment. Chelsie Baham and Makensy Manbeck separately felt the need to keep Kimo, making the vote flip narrowly. Suddenly, the video store clerk's run in the house cut to the end credits.
Courtesy of CBS
Rylie Jeffries was the most controversial houseguest on Big Brother 27, criticized for his words and actions towards his showmance partner, Katherine Woodman. Inside the house, however, he was beloved, indicating he seemed to be long for the game. But then Rachel Reilly became HoH. When Lauren Domingue won veto, the former winner threatened her not to use it on her target Vince Panaro, threatening to "blow up the house" with her renom if she did. But Lauren stuck to her guns, taking off her number one ally. And Rachel stuck to hers, putting up Rylie in his place.
Despite the bull rider seeing red, he still felt he had enough votes to stay, especially with Mickey Lee the house target going into eviction night. But she won a critical "BB Blockbuster" competition, leaving Rylie on the block against Morgan Pope. He had no idea that, in the intervening days, a new alliance called "The Judges" had convened, which included Morgan herself. As a result, they got a winning verdict in a tense 5-4 vote. Rylie, and half the house, were left stunned, as Rylie bucked off and walked out the door.
Ageless Supermodel Carol Alt, 65, Shows off Her ‘Inner Can-Can Girl’ in New Video
Supermodel Carol Alt may not be a frequent face on the runway anymore, but she's still strutting her stuff on social media.
Alt, 65, kick-started her modeling career in the late 1970s, but rose to stardom in the ’80s when she hit the cover of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue. Known as “The Face” thanks to her gorgeous looks, the beautiful brunette graced hundreds of magazine covers throughout the ’80s and went on to a successful acting career, with appearances on everything from animated series like King of the Hill to reality shows like The Celebrity Apprentice in 2008. A uterine cancer survivor, Alt attributes her excellent health to her raw food regimen. As anyone can see from her latest Instagram reel, her health regimen is likely working just fine.
Sporting a stunning black dress and leopard-print print sandal heels, the model brought out her "inner can-can girl" as she looked more glamorous than ever.
"A little kick, a little attitude… and absolutely no sensible footwear in sight," the brunette beauty said as she flipped her gams around for the camera.
View this post on Instagram The Unhealthy Modeling WorldWhile Alt was one of the most famous models in the world, she struggled tremendously to stay on top. That meant starving herself to stay thin.
“I suffered through my modeling career because I was always tired, and I was always malnourished. I was always trying to keep my weight down,” she told Fox News in 2023. “I didn’t eat, and when I ate, I ate garbage because I really did not know what to eat.”
That all changed when Alt discovered a raw food diet. She found a doctor whom she referred to as a “guru” who guided her through the process.
“I didn’t know what to eat in the morning, in the afternoon, in the evening, how much, and what would keep my energy going, and there were so many times I suffered,” Alt noted. “I wish when I was 18, 19 years old and somebody said to me, ‘You should eat your vegetables raw.”
Related: Supermodel Carol Alt, 65, Shows Off Ageless, Gorgeous Appearance in New Video
Margaret Qualley and Jack Antonoff Separate After 3 Years of 'Rocky' Marriage
Just three months shy of their 3rd wedding anniversary, sources reveal Margaret Qualley andJack Antonoff are ending their marriage.
According to an exclusive from People, sources confirmed that The Substance star and Bleachers frontman have decided to separate and claim their relationship is currently "rocky." Another source claims that the two are trying to "figure things out," with no further details behind the split.
Antonoff is currently on a tour with the band, while Qualley is in pre-production for her upcoming horror filmPossession. Neither of them nor their reps have publicly confirmed the split. Rumors of their breakup have been circulating for weeks as fans noticed that the actor has been quietly removing any traces of Antonoff from her social media page.
According to Page Six, many photos of the couple have been taken down, except one that Qualley posted in February. Eagle-eyed fans also noticed that the actor changed her Instagram handle from @isimostar to @sarahmargaretqualley23 a few months later. "Isimo" happens to be a song by Antonoff's band, Bleachers.
One of the biggest telltale signs fans had of trouble in paradise wasTaylor Swift's recent wedding to Travis Kelce. The Bleachers frontman was spotted attending Swift's wedding on July 3 without Qualley and immediately raised suspicion. Instead, he brought his designer sisterRachel Antonoff with him.
The couple first sparked dating rumors in August 2021 when they were spotted kissing on a date in Brooklyn. They were spotted many times after, until making their relationship public in March 2022 at the AFI Awards Luncheon, followed by the 27th Critics' Choice Awards. That following May, Qualley was spotted at the Cannes Film Festival with a diamond ring and later confirmed their engagement.
Qualley and Antonoff married on August 19, 2023, in Long Island Beach, New Jersey, with a star-studded ceremony including the frontman's longtime friend Taylor Swift. Up until early 2026, Antonoff boasted about his marriage and details of his Paris proposal to the actor and the phone call he made to his sister beforehand.
“I came back and I could tell that I looked crazy ‘cause she looked at me like something was wrong, and I think it’s because I had begun to sweat,” he said. “And all I do is joke, so when I become serious, I think it’s a bit arresting.”
Qualley has also given heartfelt comments about the musician, calling him "my person."
Qatar Airways Set to Launch One of the World’s Longest Scheduled Flights
For travelers who believe the journey is part of the adventure, Qatar Airways is about to raise the bar. Beginning July 22, the airline will launch a new service from Doha to Caracas, Venezuela, via Bogotá, Colombia. With a scheduled journey time of nearly 21 hours, the route will become one of the longest scheduled commercial flights in the world, giving passengers the chance to travel between the Middle East and South America on a single flight service.
While the aircraft makes a stop in Bogotá before continuing to Caracas, passengers remain on the same scheduled service, creating one of the longest airline journeys currently available. The route underscores Qatar Airways' continued expansion across Latin America while strengthening links between the Gulf region and South America.
A marathon journey across continentsThe new service departs from Doha's Hamad International Airport before crossing Europe, the Atlantic Ocean, and much of South America to reach Bogotá. After a brief stop, the aircraft continues on to Caracas, with the total scheduled travel time approaching 20 hours and 45 minutes.
Although it isn't the world's longest nonstop flight — that title still belongs to Singapore Airlines' ultra-long-haul service between Singapore and New York — the new Qatar Airways route ranks among the longest scheduled commercial journeys passengers can book.
The airline will operate the route using its Boeing 777-200LR aircraft, which is specifically designed for ultra-long-haul travel. The cabin includes lie-flat Qsuite Business Class seats on select aircraft, alongside Economy Class designed for extended journeys with seatback entertainment, in-flight dining, and Wi-Fi availability on many flights.
Why airlines are betting on ultra-long-haul routesThe launch reflects growing demand for direct or simplified connections between regions that traditionally required multiple layovers. As airlines invest in longer-range aircraft and more fuel-efficient technology, ultra-long-haul routes have become increasingly viable.
For travelers, the biggest advantage is convenience. Rather than piecing together several flights through different hubs, passengers can reach destinations across continents with fewer transfers, reducing the risk of missed connections and lost luggage.
The new route also expands Qatar Airways' footprint in Latin America, adding Caracas to a growing network that already includes destinations such as São Paulo, Buenos Aires, and Bogotá. The service is expected to benefit business travelers, tourists, and those visiting friends and family.
For aviation enthusiasts, the new route represents another milestone in the industry's push to shrink the globe. As airlines continue to stretch the limits of commercial aviation, journeys that once required multiple days and several connections are increasingly becoming possible on a single scheduled service — even if that adventure lasts nearly 21 hours from departure to arrival.
Country Icon Just Announced a 2026 Tour Update With Special Guests
Luke Bryan is bringing some friends along for his upcoming Farm Tour shows.
Following his June 5th announcement, which revealed a handful of dates in the Farm Tour, including a return to Michigan, the country star recently revealed that the shows will have several special guests joining him along for the ride.
"Just announced: can’t wait to have @dashamusic, @kennywhitmire_, @thepeachpickers, and @the_djrock out on the farm this September for #FarmTour2026. Tickets are on sale now. #HeresToTheFarmer," the Instagram post read.
Dasha, Kenny Whitmire, The Peach Pickers and Rocky Duncan will serve as openers for the shows in Latrobe, PA (Sep. 17), Millersport, OH (Sep. 18), Brookston, IN (Sep. 19), and Allegan, MI (Sep. 20).
View this post on InstagramCelebrating the tour's 17th year, Bryan previously returned to California for three shows spanning May 14 through the 16, marking the second time he brought the Farm Tour to the West Coast.
“We had such a great response to the shows out West last year that we decided to come back,” Bryan said in a statement at the time, adding, “It was so impactful to learn from the farmers about what affects their operations and families, and our hope is to shine a little spotlight on them for all they do for America.”
The Farm Tour is one of the most unique experiences in country music, as Bryan, the son of a peanut farmer, swaps out arenas and stadiums to perform live shows on real working farms across the U.S.
The tour launched in 2009 to bring concerts directly to farming towns to help support farming and agricultural communities, while awarding scholarships to students from farming families.
It also allows small-town communities to see the country star in a more laid-back setting.
The American Idol judge’s website also notes that “More than TEN million meals* have been provided through sponsor Bayer’s “Take Care, Now” campaign and the #HerestotheFarmer social initiative.”
Bryan's had a packed 2026, as he's also kept busy with his Word On the Street Tour.
Earlier this year, his premier destination music festival in paradise, Crash My Playa, revealed its lineup for its 12th year, with 2027’s date bringing country superstars Thomas Rhett and Hardy as headliners.
Related: Fan-Favorite Country Music Festival Announces 2027 Update
This Canceled TV Show Was Just Emmy Nominated — Nine Times, to Be Exact
With the Television Academy shaking up its rules and categories in recent years, the nomination breakdowns have looked a bit different of late.
Two categories were announced extra early on Wednesday, July 8, including Outstanding Variety Series. That realm now includes sketch comedy shows, such as Saturday Night Live, and late-night programming, such as The Daily Show.
Besides the two mentioned above, the other nominees in the Primetime Emmy Award field are:
- Jimmy Kimmel Live!
- Last Week Tonight With John Oliver
- The Late Show With Stephen Colbert
Fans are well aware that Late Show has been canceled, meaning they're certainly pleased to see it honored in the Emmys race one last time. And "honored" is putting it lightly since Colbert's talk show received a whopping nine nods in total on Wednesday — its biggest haul ever, Variety reports.
In addition to Best Variety Series, Late Show is in the running for:
- writing for a variety series
- directing for a variety series
- production design for a variety/reality series
- technical direction and camerawork
- lighting design
- sound mixing for a variety series/special
- picture editing for variety programming
- music direction
As part of the TV Academy's recent Emmys overhaul, the variety series race is now classified as an “area” award — meaning nominees aren’t competing against one another and instead independently trying to get at least 90% of Emmy voters to answer “yes” to a single question: “Does this nominee merit an Emmy?”
If a show clears the bar, it wins, regardless of whether another one does. So in theory, an overwhelmingly embraced field could produce Emmys for multiple programs in the same race, in the same year.
The other early-morning category announced Wednesday was Reality Competition Program. Here are those nominees:
Why One Taylor Swift Wedding Guest Thought Their Invitation Was a 'Scam'
Even after receiving an invitation to Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's wedding, one guest wasn't entirely convinced it was real.
BBC Radio 1 host Greg James opened up about the surprisingly low-key way he learned he was invited to one of the year's most exclusive celebrity events—and why he and his wife, author Bella Mackie, were convinced they might be walking into an elaborate prank.
Speaking on the BBC Radio 1 Breakfast Show on Wednesday, July 8, James revealed that the invitation didn't arrive in a lavish envelope or custom keepsake. Instead, it came in the middle of the night as a link sent directly to his phone.
"The invitation arrived on my phone, in the form of a link, in the middle of the night when I was trying to get some sleep during a storm…this link came through saying that you've been invited to the wedding and it was the night before the Comic Relief challenge," he recalled, per People.
James was preparing for a 620-mile charity bike ride alongside Prince William, so he put the news aside. "I had to sit with it all week. I basically turned my phone straight off and thought, 'I can't deal with that now, it's too mad.' I didn't tell anyone for the whole week."
Why James thought the invite was a scamThere was another reason he kept quiet: he wasn't completely convinced the invitation was genuine. "There was no paper invite to follow, it was all electronic," James explained before admitting, "Yes, until we were in there, there was a huge part us, that me and Bella were like, 'This could not be real. This could be a scam.' So until we were in, we thought we may have made a big trip here for nothing. I wasn't sure until we got there."
Other celebrities who were invited and didn’t goNot every celebrity who received an invitation ultimately made it to Madison Square Garden. James Taylor revealed at a concert over the weekend that he and his wife, Kim, had been invited but skipped the celebration because of his annual Fourth of July concert at Tanglewood, though he still wished the newlyweds "happiness and smooth sailing."
Ryan Seacrest had to pass despite initially RSVP'ing yes. The longtime television host said he was forced to cancel after committing to Disney's Fourth of July special, though he admitted he was "so honored and thrilled to be invited."
Harry Styles and Zoe Kravitz also skipped the event, most likely due to Styles’ performance at Wembley Stadium in London for his Together, Together Tour.
Related: Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce Ditched Tradition With Their Unconventional Bridal Party
1973 Hit Song, Originally Disliked by the Singer, Became a No. 1 Soft Rock Classic
Helen Reddyfound success in "Leave Me Alone (Ruby Red Dress)" that she initially wanted nothing to do with, but would become a pop/soft rock hit with a sad story in its lyrics.
By 1973, Reddy was already well-known for her chart-topping No. 1 track "Delta Dawn" when Capitol Records wanted to capitalize on its success. "Leave Me Alone (Ruby Red Dress)" wasn't an original by the Australian/American singer and was originally written and recorded by Linda Laurie that same year. Laurie was better known as a songwriter, with her novelty track "Ambrose (Part 5)" being one of her most popular releases.
After "Delta Dawn," Capitol Records believed that Laurie's song would be a perfect follow-up for Reddy to once again land on the charts. Reddy, on the other hand, wasn't enthused by the idea and felt that "Leave Me Alone (Ruby Red Dress)" was taking a step back and a thematic retreat from the No.1 hit.
After all, the lyrics of "Leave Me Alone (Ruby Red Dress)" focus on a young woman who goes through heartbreak at the hands of a man from Tennessee. The events leave Ruby with a broken spirit, with some even believing there was sexual assault involved. Reddy felt that both "Delta Dawn" and the song focused too much on the similar stories. She was also bothered by how many times the track repeated the phrase "leave me alone."
Capitol Records would end up being right about the track, as it landed at No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and No.1 on the Adult Contemporary chart. Alongside being No. 1 on Cash Box, it also topped the charts in Australia and Canada.
The popularity of "Leave Me Alone (Ruby Red Dress)" and the overuse of "leave me alone" led to a nationwide contest in the U.S. where fans had to guess how many times the phrase was used. Reddy later revealed it was a total of 43 times.
Despite the song having been a hit for Reddy, she would later insist on her dislike for it. When she came out of retirement in 2013, playing songs that weren't released as singles, she named "Leave Me Alone (Ruby Red Dress)" as the "one song I will never ever sing again."
A main reason for her dislike was its repetitiveness, where "that sort of songwriting doesn’t do much for me, but it was a hit. However, I don’t have to sing it anymore if I don’t want to, and I don’t want to."
'80s Pop Singer, 56, Messes Up Words at Concert, and the Band's Reaction Is Priceless
In many Gen-Xers' eyes, there is very little New Kids on the Block has done wrong, but that certainly doesn't mean they haven't made mistakes. Since their meteoric rise in the '80s, fans have been swooning over one of the original boy bands in the way only frenzied teenagers can. What's amazing is that the fervor has not died. Currently, NKOTB are staying strong with their own Las Vegas residency, The Right Stuff, at the Dolby Live theater at Park MGM.
While the show is full of over-the-top production features, costume changes, and an endless bevy of beloved hits, it is also very much a live show where things can go wrong. And the other night, a fan caught a flub that has everyone, including the band, giggling.
While playing the piano, original member Jordan Knight sang his iconic ballad "Baby, I Believe In You" surrounded by his bandmates. As he went through the song, you could hear him stumble on his words while being met with perplexed looks from his bandmates.
@bigenergy85Still sounded good to me. 🎤🎶 Jordan breaking character cracked me up. 😂 #newkidsontheblock #lasvegastiktok #nkotb #jordanknight #donniewahlberg
♬ original sound - 👑💎Lauren💎👑Knight then erupted into giggles as his bandmates snickered and tried to cover up their guffaws.
"Wrong words, sorry," Knight quickly apologized to the audience as he moved into the next harmony. And fans online had a lot to say about his flub and the band's reaction to it.
"Having a senior moment lol we are all getting there," quipped one fan.
"Joe trying to keep a straight face when it happened was just as good as Jordan laughing it off," joked another.
"He just sang it a bit early, lol. I love how genuine they are, makes them more lovable," swooned another.
Celebrities—they really are just like us!
More About New Kids on the BlockJordan Knight, Donnie Wahlberg, Jonathan Knight, Danny Wood, and Joey McIntyre have been performing together for over 40 years. Though two of the original members left, including Donnie's very famous brother Mark Wahlberg, the core group that everyone grew to know and love as NKOTB are still part of the band. Their Vegas residency is just the latest in ventures for the group, who have done international tours over the years and so much more.
The residency is a limited run, with the band performing several dates in June and a handful in July. The next (and last) chance to see them will be in October on the 2, 3, 7, 9, 10, 14, 16, and 17, with all events starting at 8:00 PM. Tickets average around $86 a seat, but prices vary depending on seat location. We honestly couldn't think of a better girls' trip, and who knows, you may get a memorable moment just like this endearing slip-up.
1971 Classic Ballad, Named No. 1 Hit Song, Became a Timeless Motivational Anthem
John Denver could turn the simplest image into something deeply moving.
That gift was on full display with "Sunshine on My Shoulders." First released on his 1971 album Poems, Prayers & Promises before being re-released as a single and becoming a major hit in 1973, the gentle ballad reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1974 and remains one of Denver's most beloved recordings.
The song was born from a quiet winter day.
Written by Denver with Dick Kniss and Mike Taylor, "Sunshine on My Shoulders" reflected a longing for warmth, light and comfort during a gray season.
"I was so down I wanted to write a feeling-blue song [but] this is what came out," Denver told Seventeen in 1974.
Its delicate acoustic arrangement and tender vocal performance gave the song an intimate quality, while its lyrics transformed the feeling of sunlight into a broader message about happiness, gratitude and hope.
That emotional clarity helped the song resonate with listeners.
Released as a single after being featured in the 1973 television movie Sunshine, "Sunshine on My Shoulders" climbed to the top of the Billboard Hot 100, giving Denver another defining hit during one of the most successful periods of his career. Its success helped reinforce his reputation as one of the decade's most sincere and thoughtful singer-songwriters.
"It was the true story of Lyn Helton, an incredibly courageous lady who chose to live her short life to the fullest even though she knew she would die of a rare bone cancer in a matter of month," Denver said of Sunshine in an interview. "It seems that in the last year of her life she found some happiness in my music. I was most honored to have my songs used as part of that television show."
The song's motivational power comes from its quiet optimism. Rather than relying on grand declarations, "Sunshine on My Shoulders" encourages listeners to notice small sources of beauty and comfort, making it an enduring anthem for reflection, healing and emotional renewal.
Denver would go on to score more signature hits, including "Annie's Song," "Thank God I'm a Country Boy," "Rocky Mountain High" and "Take Me Home, Country Roads." Yet "Sunshine on My Shoulders" has always occupied a special place in his catalog because of its gentle simplicity.
More than 50 years after its release, "Sunshine on My Shoulders" continues to offer the same warmth that first made it a No. 1 hit. Its message of gratitude and hope has helped it endure as one of John Denver's most timeless motivational anthems.
Related: 1972 Rock Classic, Named No. 1 Hit Song, Became a Timeless Motivational Anthem
Larry David Ruined His 'Mork & Mindy' Audition and the Role Went to Another Beloved Comedian
Before Larry David solidified himself as comedy great with Curb Your Enthusiasm, he had a chance to showcase his skills on Mork & Mindy decades earlier. But a mistake he made during his audition cost him the role.
Garry Marshall, creator of the Happy Days spin-off, revealed the tale in his memoir, My Happy Days in Hollywood. His sister, Ronny Hallin, a producer for the show, met with David for his audition. "[She] tried to recruit another funny comedian named Larry David early on," Marshall wrote, "but when Larry came in for the audition, he penciled up the scene he was supposed to act in. Ronny asked him what he was doing, and he said, 'punching up the script.'"
He continued: "He thought he was auditioning as a writer," Marshall explained. He didn’t get the role or a job as a writer on the show. He auditioned to star as a con man named Ellsworth on the show. Eventually, David Letterman landed the part in a move that would be a rarity for him in the acting space.
David later admitted he initially did not believe he had acting chops, telling the New York Post in 2015, "I was inspired to become a comedian because I was a bad actor.” Marshall echoed similar sentiments about David in his memoir. "He didn't think he was an actor at all," he wrote about David. "Years later, when he developed his series 'Curb Your Enthusiasm,' he would think differently."
Curb Your Enthusiasm premiered in 2000 and aired for 12 seasons on HBO. David stars as a fictionalized version of himself, following his life as a semi-retired television writer and producer in Los Angeles for the majority of the show’s run. The show has largely been lauded as one of the greatest comedy series of all time. It earned 55 Primetime Emmy nominations during its run.
'Criminal Minds: Evolution' Sneak Peek: Watch A.J. Cook Share the Screen With Her Real-Life Sons (Exclusive)
So much of Criminal Minds: Evolution is dark and dangerous but, in this week’s, “Requiem” episode, the BAU team takes time out to mark a milestone in the life of Jennifer ‘JJ’ Jareau’s (A.J. Cook) TV son Henry LaMontagne, who just happens to be played by A.J.’s real-life son Mekhai Andersen.
It’s a surprise party for Henry, who’s off to Hallridge University in California, but when JJ, Henry and Phoenix enter Penelope’s (Kirsten Vangsness) apartment, they don’t seem to be surprised.
“Your cars are around the corner,” JJ’s younger son, Michael LaMontagne, who is played by Phoenix Sky Andersen, A.J.’s real-life youngest son, says when (Joe Mantegna) accuses JJ of having revealed the surprise.
To which Penelope replies, “Can we work on our not-at-work stealthiness?”
Both boys’ father is A.J.’s husband Nathan Andersen.
Then there’s a hanky-necessary moment in a conversation between JJ and Emily Prentiss (Paget Brewster).
Related: Criminal Minds: Evolution Boss on Not a ‘Dry Eye’ After Killing Off a Fan-Favorite Character
“Spence told me that he’s happy for Henry, but he can still make that call to Cal Tech, you know, if he changes his mind,” JJ says, referring to Matthew Gray Gubler’s character, Dr. Spencer Reid.
“You have a lot to be proud of,” Emily tells her. “You know who we’re really here to celebrate, don’t you? You and Will.”
“It’s been a long road,” JJ responds, referring, of course, to having to raise her two sons alone since the death of her husband Will [Josh Stewart].
New episodes of Criminal Minds: Evolution drop each Thursday exclusively on Paramount+.
Kate Middleton Speaks About 'Enjoying the Process' of Three Peaks Challenge in Unfiltered Chat at Wimbledon
While at Wimbledon last week, Kate Middletongot to chatting with her seatmates about recently completing the UK's Three Peaks Challenge.
Sat between two former renowned British tennis players, Deborah Jevans and Tim Henman, the future queen opened up about her recent accomplishment — hiking the highest mountains in England, Scotland, and Wales — in a candid discussion while the three watched a tennis match.
"I think part of the journey was trying to enjoy the process," she said to Henman in footage shared by Wimbledon's official Instagram page. "The training beforehand but also making time during the walk to meet people and enjoy the journey, rather than just quickly getting to the top."
View this post on InstagramCompleted in 24 hours, Middleton has shared some personal photos of the feat where she's seen mid-trek, sporting rain gear due to the wet conditions.
"The weather was atrocious," she said. "I mean everybody got soaked through. It was a very sort of stoically British thing to do. You're soaking wet and everyone's going, 'C'mon we can do it!'"
Middleton participated in the challenge along with her brother in support of The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity, a cause close to her heart, as she received treatment for her own cancer diagnosis from The Royal Marsden hospital.
"I've just been so blown away by donations," she told Henman. "Everyone's been so generous. That's what keeps you going ... when you know you're doing it for a good cause."
"It keeps you going through the harder times," she added.
Middleton, 44, was diagnosed with cancer in 2024 and stepped back from royal duties while she received treatment. She announced on social media in January of 2025 that she was "cancer free" and focused on recovery.
In the first Instagram she posted of the trek, she shared her gratitude for The Royal Marsden hospital and compassion for others dealing with cancer.
"I have taken on the National Three Peaks Challenge, not simply as a physical endeavour but as a chance to explore life beyond diagnosis and to give something back," she said. "The Royal Marsden is a place that holds great meaning for me and whose care and expertise are life changing for so many people."
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Walmart's 'Fabulous' $11 Capri Pants Are 'Super Cute,' 'Stretchy,' and Come in 9 Chic Colors
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Do yourself a favor and invest in wide leg pants that you can sport all summer long. The beauty of flowy bottoms is that they look fashionable and keep you cool on boiling hot days. Thanks to Walmart, you can shop for amazing clothing options that you'll want to keep season after season. The VDJ Capri Pants are the latest style on our radar, and they're currently up to 58% off.
The pants initially cost $26, but have been reduced to as low as $11 in the black floral pattern. The bottoms are priced at $13 in the remaining eight colorways, spanning from a classic black to a gorgeous green floral pattern. The sizes range from S to XXL, with shoppers noting that the pants are true to size. Just note that they're intended to be a slightly cropped pant and loosely fit when you consider sizing.
VDJ Capri Pants, From $11 (was $26) at Walmart Shop at WalmartThe pants are made of 95% polyester and 5% spandex, so they're fairly lightweight and breathable so that you can wear them all summer long. The pants are marked as machine washable, but make sure to follow the care instructions to prevent shrinkage or color seeping.. The trouser design includes an elastic waistband that you can adjust with the provided tassel belt.
VDJ Capri Pants, From $11 (was $26) at Walmart Shop at WalmartThe wide leg pants have side pockets that you can place your phone or other small miscellaneous items into. The style is very versatile, so you can easily dress it up with sandals or dress it down with comfy sneakers. Shoppers described the bestselling bottoms as "soft," "very comfortable," "stretchy," and "fabulous." Other reviewers cited the color is "vibrant" and added that the material isn't see-through.
Related: Walmart’s 'Beautiful' $65 Freestanding Storage Cabinet Is 'Perfect for Tiny Bathrooms'
Several customers purchased a few pairs of these "super cute" pants in different colors. It's a good idea to buy a traditional pair that you can match with everything, and then a fun pattern that makes a bold statement. They're a "great addition" to your wardrobe either way, as the fabric is "silky" and "flows well."
Shop More Deals- Fantaslook Ruffle Midi Dress, $14 (was $29) at Walmart
- Ronuti Henley Top, $12 (was $24) at Walmart
- Cate & Chloe Hoop Earrings, $20 (was $115) at Walmart
These are the adorable summer pants that you can't believe you lived without. Plus, if you move quickly enough to purchase them on sale, you can tell friends you swiped them for just $11. Shop this epic Walmart deal before it disappears!
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1977 Bestselling Novel, Which Spawned a Record-Breaking TV Miniseries, Captivated Millions
Long before the era of binge-watching, one sweeping 1977 love story managed to do the impossible: pull an entire nation away from their busy lives and glue them to their television screens.
What started as a massive bestselling book quickly grew into a record-breaking television event. Decades later, the unforgettable family saga of The Thorn Birds still holds a special place in the hearts of millions who watched it unfold in 1983.
The Thorn Birds book was released in 1977. Written by Colleen McCullough, it tells the story of the struggling Cleary family, who are invited to live at Drogheda, the vast Australian sheep station owned by Paddy Cleary’s wealthy sister, Mary Carson.
There, they meet Father Ralph de Bricassart, a charismatic young priest who forms a close bond with the family, especially Meggie. As Ralph and Meggie grow closer, Mary becomes consumed by jealousy.
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Before her death, she changed her will to leave her fortune to the Catholic Church instead of the Clearys, and forced Ralph to decide whether or not to reveal it to the family. His choice secures his own rise within the Church while allowing the Cleary family to remain at Drogheda, setting the stage for the novel's central conflicts, including Ralph's later-in-life love affair with Meggie.
The book was an international bestseller. A New York Times article printed in 2015 shared the news that McCullough had died; and revealed the book had sold than 30 million copies worldwide and been translated into more than 20 languages.
The Times wrote, "In hardcover, it spent more than a year on the New York Times best-seller list; the paperback rights were sold at auction for $1.9 million, a record at the time."
The ABC miniseries of the same name, starring Richard Chamberlain as Father Ralph and Rachel Ward as Meggie, was first broadcast in 1983. It also starred Christopher Plummer, Barbara Stanwyck, and Jean Simmons and became the most-watched television miniseries of all time.
Rachel Ward and Richard Chamberlain of 'The Thorn Birds'/ABC Photo Archives/Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty ImagesThe Television Academy wrote, "Despite its controversial subject matter (or perhaps because of it), The Thorn Birds garnered an average 41 rating and 59 share over the course of its four-night run, making it then the second highest rated miniseries ever, second only to Roots (1977). Its controversial third episode, in which Meggie and Father Ralph consummated their relationship, was at the time the fourth highest rated network entertainment show of all time (preceded only by the final episode of M*A*S*H, the "Who Shot JR?" episode of Dallas, and the eighth episode of Roots.)"
"In the end, an estimated 110 million-140 million viewers saw all or some of the miniseries. TV Guide, in fact, has listed The Thorn Birds as one of the top 20 programs of the 1980s," the Academy concluded.
The Thorn Birds is not currently available on any free or subscription-based streaming services. However, it can be rented or purchased digitally.
Related: This 1967 Book That Became a Cultural Phenomenon Is Now Ranked the Greatest of All Time
Weight Watchers Launches Limited-Time Protein Product With Unexpected Collab
The rise of GLP-1 weight-loss medications like Ozempic and Wegovy is driving a shift in the weight-management industry, moving the conversation from calorie restriction to muscle preservation. To combat this shift, Weight Watchers is fundamentally overhauling its approach to nutrition.
The popularity of these medications has swelled over the last few years, with several high-profile celebrities opening up about their personal experiences. Oprah Winfrey, a longtime board member and face of Weight Watchers, departed the company's board after disclosing her use of a prescription weight-loss aid. Kelly Clarkson and Whoopi Goldberg have both discussed using medical injections to assist with weight reduction, while comedian Amy Schumer shared that she discontinued her prescription due to side effects, including severe fatigue.
Medical experts note that rapid weight loss can result in the loss of lean muscle mass alongside fat tissue. For women navigating midlife and individuals utilizing GLP-1 medications, maintaining muscle is critical for long-term metabolic health and physical mobility.
In response to these changing consumer needs, Weight Watchers is expanding its focus beyond its traditional point-counting system to address protein intake and strength training. The company has partnered with nutrition brand FlavCity, founded by Bobby Parrish, to launch a limited-edition Whipped Lemonade protein powder.
Available through FlavCity’s TikTok Shop and website, the supplement provides 25 grams of protein and 10 grams of collagen per serving, translating to 4 points within the Weight Watchers system. The product is formulated without the artificial additives common in some diet foods, aligning with FlavCity's focus on clean ingredients.
The partnership also introduces the "Summer Strength Club," a 10-week digital program for new and existing Weight Watchers members. The initiative is designed to help users hit daily protein targets and establish strength-training routines through the summer months.
The digital club features live strength-training classes led by fitness coach Holly Rilinger, founder of The LIFTED Method. It also integrates weekly high-protein recipes and cooking demonstrations from Parrish, alongside in-app community challenges to maintain user engagement.
As consumer habits shift toward pharmaceutical weight loss and fitness tracking, the collaboration represents a move by Weight Watchers to provide resources that address the physical side effects of modern weight-loss trends.