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Jennifer Lopez Struts in Original Low-Rise Jeans From 'Ain't It Funny' Music Video 25 Years Later
There's nothing like a hit of nostalgia to get fans buzzing. Jennifer Lopezstunned fans when appearing in an Instagram video with Off Campus series star Mika Abdalla while wearing a throwback lace-up pair of jeans from the early 2000s.
Off Campus went viral on social media when Abdalla's character dressed up as Jennifer Lopez in her iconic green Versace dress for a party. She became the center of attention when dancing to Lopez's 2011 hit track with Pitbull, "On the Floor."
While the singer and actor previously commented on the track and dress going viral years later, she catered to fans by uniting with Abdalla to recreate the Off Campus scene. Besides Lopez's killer abs on display, fans also noticed a familiar pair of lace-up low-rise jeans. She's seen in the video wearing the jeans alongside a cropped white turtleneck and heeled boots.
The jeans in question appear to be the same pair she wore in the music video for her 2011 track "Ain't It Funny." One fan on X commented, "Those pants are INSANE" while posting a clip of the music video.
"They’re the same ones from that video," confirmed Lopez.
It’s a new Jeneration of party people…🎶 pic.twitter.com/LIC1c6o3GF
— jlo (@JLo) May 23, 2026Fans quickly commented back saying, "Being able to wear the same pair of jeans from 20 years ago is such a flex. Mother behavior," and "only you can slay like that mother." Others even posted side-by-side comparisons of Lopez from 2001 to 2026 with the caption, "Same body, same girl."
"Ain't It Funny" was originally written by Lopez and Cory Rooney as a track for her romantic comedy drama The Wedding Planner. Director Adam Shankman felt the song had too much of a Latin influence to make sense for the film, and it was instead released on Lopez's second studio albumJ.Lo. The track was a commercial success in multiple countries, with the music video filmed in sepia tone where Lopex meets a gypsy who tells her her future.
Award-Winning Voice Behind Some of Rock’s Most Iconic Hits Across 3 Decades Turns 79
His soaring voice and emotionally charged lyrics helped define ’70s, ’80s, and even ’90s rock. And today, Klaus Meine is still bringing the thunder. So why not take five and celebrate the Soul of the Scorpions, as he turns 79.
In a post published on the band’s official Instagram, the Scorpions frontman gets a birthday shout-out from his bandmates.
View this post on Instagram“Stay louder than ever for Peace, Love and Rock & Roll!!! Happy Birthday, dear Klaus!!! Best of health, love, happiness and always good times in the years to come… Your Gang: Rudolf, Matthias, Pawel and Mikkey,” the caption reads.
Fans are also showing their love, with one writing, "What a privilege to share a birthday with the same icon, just one day apart but in the same month! Happy birthday Klaus, you are the most beautiful, cutest, most beloved, strongest, and most incredible person in this world. May you have many more years of health and happiness!!!”
“Happy birthday, dear Klaus!!,” another commented. “May God bless you with good health and a long life!! And thank you so much for sharing your wonderful music with us and for making us happy all these years with your lovely presence on the stages of life!! Greetings from Brazil!!”
We, too, from the East Coast of the United States would like to wish Meine a relaxing and wonderful 79th birthday. After decades of defining hard rock and heavy metal, you deserve some R&R. Thank you for the arena anthems, soaring vocals, and shattering power ballads.
From the global anthem “Wind of Change,” which topped the charts in 11 countries across Europe in 1991, including the band's native Germany, Austria, Switzerland, France, and the Netherlands, to the Scorpions’ only No. 1 single on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks, “No One Like You” from 1982, our classic rock playlists will be forever grateful.
Now, excuse us while we rock this Memorial Day like a hurricane and go on “Still Loving You,” Klaus Meine, frontman of the award-winning and most famous German rock band of all time. Have a wonderful birthday.
Who Won ‘Jeopardy’ Today? (May 25, 2026) Plus, the Final Jeopardy Answer
There are three things guaranteed in the world today: Death, taxes, and Jeopardy! being on. Believe it or not, the iconic game show has been on the air for over 60 years (though the modern incarnation we know and love technically debuted in 1984). Under the watchful eye of Ken Jennings (who himself was a record-breaking champion), Jeopardy! puts three people's trivia skills and reflexes to the ultimate test. And so many of the greats to grace those podiums started by simply watching the show as it aired on weekdays, as millions have done for over half a century.
Here's a spoiler-filled recap of who won Jeopardy! today, plus the answer to Final Jeopardy.
Chris D'Angelo took home his fourth consecutive victory, for a running total of $83,600 as a four-day champion.
Who are the Jeopardy contestants today?Chris D'AngeloChris D'Angelo is a content manager from Washington, D.C.
Veronica MatthewsVeronica Matthews is an after-school science instructor originally from Martinez, California.
Jack KellyJack Kelly is a PH.D. student from Cambridge, Massachusetts.
Related: Sam Heughan Surprises ‘Jeopardy!’ Fans With an ‘Outlander’ Category — Can You Answer the Clues?
What was Final Jeopardy today?Final Jeopardy today was in the category "SOUTHERN AFRICA"
The clue: "Called the "Calendar Lake" because it's about 365 miles long & 52 miles wide, it shares its name with a country."
The answer: "What is the Lake Malawi?"
Only two contestants got FJ right, which worked in D'Angelo's favor. The Memorial Day episode saw the three-day champ take his fourth victory, as he led with a massive lead following DJ at $25,200. Wagering $4,800, a correct answer added $30,000 to his overall prize pot. Kelly also got FJ correct, wagering $1,001 for a 2nd place total of $8,001.
Matthews did not get it right (What is Namibia), and with a conservative wager of $731, she ended in third place with $3,269.
D'Angelo will return on Tuesday for attempt number five!
Did you get the answer? Sound off in the comments!
Related: Where Jamie Ding Ranks Among ‘Jeopardy!’s Top 10 All-Time Winners
When is Jeopardy on next?Jeopardy! will come back on Tuesday, May 26, with a new episode. Check your local listings to find out when to watch
Where is Jeopardy streaming?Jeopardy! is available on both Hulu and Peacock. Subscribers can enjoy watching new episodes the next day, as well as access a vault of many classic episodes to enjoy at a moment's notice.
Related: Ken Jennings Reveals If 'Celebrity Jeopardy!' Questions Are Easier
This A-List ‘80s Actor’s Son Just Had a Racy Scene With Sydney Sweeney in ‘Euphoria’
Euphoria fans were a little caught off guard by Sydney Sweeney’s racy topless bedroom scene. But Cassie’s now-viral moment wasn’t even the biggest surprise. As it turns out, her amore was none other than A-list actor Richard Gere’s son!
American actor Richard Gere and his son, American actor Homer James Jigme Gere at the 81 Venice International Film Festival 2024. Filming Italy Venice Award Red Carpet. Venice (Italy), September 1st, 2024 (Photo by Rocco Spaziani/Archivio Spaziani/Mondadori Portfolio via Getty Images) Who Is Richard Gere’s Son In ‘Euphoria’?The Pretty Woman 1980s and 1990s heartthrob has three sons: 26-year-old Homer Gere (with second wife, actress and model Carey Lowell), seven-year-old Alexander (with third wife, Alejandra Silva), and six-year-old James (also with Silva).
Way back in 2002, Gere told The Guardian, Homer is “The joy of my life. Loves music, very fast runner, very smart. Very funny. Pretty quick he learned irony, which is a wonderful quality for any human being.” Along with these ‘wonderful qualities,’ now that he’s an adult, Homer is also a talented actor who is following in his famous father’s footsteps.
The younger Gere (Homer, that is) plays fictional actor Dylan Reid on Euphoria. In a bid to put her OnlyFans days behind her, Sweeney’s character, Cassie, auditions for a small role on a TV show. That is, the TV show her sister Lexi (played by Maude Apatow) happens to work on. Like Gere, Apatow is also the child of two famous parents. Her mother is actress Leslie Mann, and her father is filmmaker Judd Apatow.
Back to the fictional world of Euphoria, where Cassie beds Reid (in an extremely revealing scene) to further her career. After their romp, Dylan heads to the kitchen for a glass of water as Cassie posts a pic of the two of them from his phone (posing as him) with a more-than-suggestive caption. Whew!
While Sunday’s recent episode wasn’t his only moment on the show, it certainly had the biggest impact. Of course, it’s very possible some fans didn’t really know (or care) that Gere was in the scene. Based on the reaction, he wasn’t exactly the star of the show. And while it would be nice to say that it was either his or Sweeney’s acting abilities that made the episode stand out, chances are it was the graphic nudity.
What Are Homer Gere’s Other Acting Roles?Playing Dylan Reid in the third season of Euphoria is Homer Gere’s breakout, notice-me role. But it probably isn't the last time you’ll see him on the small screen. He’s set to star as Robert Mallory in the upcoming Ryan Murphy FX series, The Shards. And like Eurphoria, this series also stars another ‘nepo baby’ — Kaia Gerber, the daughter of Richard Gere’s ex (first wife), Cindy Crawford.
Another Iconic ‘Big Bang Theory’ Character Joins Spinoff ‘Stuart Fails To Save the Universe’
The Big Bang Theory spinoff, Stuart Fails To Save the Universe, is coming to HBO MAX on July 23. The series is about Stuart Bloom, a comic book store owner who is trying to restore reality after breaking a device that Sheldon and Leonard have built.
“Stuart is aided in this quest by his girlfriend Denise, geologist friend Bert, and quantum physicist/all-around pain in the ass Barry Kripke,” according to Deadline. However, eagle-eyed fans have spotted another familiar face in the most recent sizzle reel dropped on Sunday.
In the clip, Wil Wheaton appears at the thirty-second mark. He appears to be firing an energy blast at Stuart, Denise, Bert, and Kripke.
Wheaton was involved in 17 episodes of The Big Bang Theory, with his first appearance occurring in season 3. However, on his website, he revealed that he wasn’t originally sure whether he wanted to appear on the show.
“Bill Prady called me, and pitched me on playing a version of myself on his series, The Big Bang Theory,” he said. “Believe it or not, I didn’t instantly say yes. I felt like playing myself meant I would only get to do one episode, nobody would care, and the industry wouldn’t respect me for it because I wasn’t playing a role.”
Related: 2012 ‘The Big Bang Theory’ Episode Ranked the Funniest in the Entire Series Had an Iconic Guest Star
However, he changed his mind after getting advice from his friend, John Rogers, and learning that the character had been altered. “A few days later, Bill called me back and carefully told me that the character had changed,” he said. “Now, the version of Wil Wheaton I would be playing was, and I quote, ‘Delightfully evil.' Now I said YES without hesitation. I was playing a character, just like I wanted to, but I was the only person in the world who could play him, because he was literally a version of me.”
He continued, “That week on the set was the best week of my life. I was already a huge fan of the show, but by the time I was wrapped, I was an even bigger fan of the cast and crew. Everyone treated me with kindness and respect. They made me feel so welcome, like I deserved to be there, like I was a valued member of the show. One of the producers told me, 'I hope you had a good time here, because we are definitely bringing you back for more episodes.'”
What Kylie Minogue Learned From These Two ‘90s Rock Icons
Kylie Minogue recently opened up her life and career for a three-part Netflix docuseries. In it, a range of talking heads from her four-decade career revealed what it was like working with the pop princess.
Kylie was especially thrilled to see Nick Cave, with whom she dueted on 1996's "Where The Wild Roses Grow," speak so fondly about her. "I just couldn't believe he nailed it and was so generous, so profound, so Nick," she said, per RNZ.
Kylie revealed that Nick had an "incredible" influence on her career, which is "beautifully portrayed in the documentary" as "someone that just saw something else in me that allowed me to have the kind of faith, I guess".
"To have someone that's there by your side … Knowing that he's there and knowing that I could call him for advice is amazing," the 57-year-old admitted.
Kylie Minogue and Nick Cave perform on the Pyramid stage on day five of Glastonbury Festival at Worthy Farm, Pilton on June 30, 2019 in Glastonbury, England. (Photo by Ian Gavan/Getty Images)Another major influence on Kylie's life and career was her romance with the late INXS singer Michael Hutchence. "We all know what an amazing person he was," she explained. The singer passed away in 1997 at the age of just 37 years old.
"I'm sure he lights up everybody in a similar way. But for me, I was 21, 22 years old when we met and when we started dating. What an age, what a time." The pair dated from 1989 to 1991, during the height of INXS' fame.
The "Padam Padam" singer explained that the rocker introduced her to "the greater world" of art, literature and the rock star lifestyle.
"He taught me about being a person: about looking for and appreciating more in life and the finer things in life. He's quite epicurean, so well versed, he was like a Byron. He was that kind of type," she said, calling the singer "a good human."
"I talk in the documentary about him teaching me that it's OK to be still. I was doing cartwheels and all sorts. I had no [career] lessons. I basically learned like, 'You're on the stage. Go!' I still have a glow talking about him."
Related: ‘80s Pop Icon Reveals Secret 2021 Battle With Cancer
Singer Who Opened for Taylor Swift Says She Hasn't Received a Wedding Invite—or Any Sourdough
Maisie Peters has a very specific list of things she’s still waiting on from Taylor Swift.
"I've not received a sourdough loaf or a wedding invite," said Peters during a Friday, May 22 episode of the Zach Sang Show. "I think that's OK."
The singer made the comments while reflecting on her experience opening for Swift during the Eras Tour at Wembley Stadium in August 2024, a career moment that brought her even further into the global spotlight.
Peters explained that before taking the stage, she had actually gone out of her way to bring Swift a few small gifts. “I actually went [to the Brick Lane market] to buy Taylor some presents before I did the show. I got her some books and a little tote bag,” she said.
She also shared that she spent part of their interaction enthusiastically talking about her admiration for Hilary Duff, something she now jokes may have worked against her chances of receiving a wedding invite. “And after hearing my spiel on Hilary Duff, I don’t think it’s coming,” she said.
Peters added that she remains a longtime fan of Swift and is taking the situation in stride. “Obviously, I’m a huge fan and maybe one day I’ll get to try her sourdough. Lifelong goal. Good to have dreams,” she joked.
The comments come as Swift’s relationship with Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce continues to draw widespread attention, with speculation and curiosity surrounding their upcoming wedding plans. While details about the ceremony remain limited, fans and fellow musicians alike have occasionally commented on their lack of an invitation.
For now, Peters seems more amused than disappointed—happy to celebrate her time on tour and still holding out hope for that elusive sourdough loaf.
‘American Pie’ Star Models Swimsuit for First Time in 25 Years After Making $1M in First OnlyFans Week
Shannon Elizabeth is sporting a swimsuit publicly for the first time in 25 years after making a pretty penny in her first week on OnlyFans.
Elizabeth, 52, who skyrocketed to stardom in 1999 as the foreign exchange student named Nadia who made Jason Biggs' dreams come true in American Pie, reprised her role in the film's sequels. While she continued to act in films like Scary Movie and Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back, the star pursued additional avenues, including a successful poker career and a life of philanthropy working with animals. However, that career took a bit of a pivot with her move to OnlyFans last month, which was a rousing success: According to Variety, the star's OnlyFans account earned $1.2 million during her first week on the platform.
Now, the actress is back on Instagram, sporting a bathing suit publicly for the first time since she appeared in Maxim magazine in 2001, the Daily Mail pointed out.
"Mauritius just raised the bar! ☀️," read Elizabeth's Instagram caption, which showed her in a brown one-piece bathing suit. "A day at Shangri-La Le Touessrok... pristine white sand beaches, a private island you reach by boat, and the most dreamy beachside lunch at Coco’s Beach House. This place is something else."
View this post on Instagram Why Did Shannon Elizabeth Join OnlyFans?Last month, Elizabeth opened up about why she decided to join the popular platform.
“I've spent my entire career working in Hollywood, where other people controlled the narrative and the outcome of my career. This new chapter is about changing that, showing off a more sexy side no one has seen, and being closer to my fans,” Elizabeth told PEOPLE. “I'm choosing OnlyFans because it allows me to connect directly with my audience, create on my own terms, and just be free. I really do think this is the future."
Clearly, the endeavor worked out for her: Creators Inc. CEO Andy Bachman revealed Elizabeth “grossed seven figures in her first week on the platform.”
Related: 'American Pie' Star Earned Nearly $1 Million in 1 Week After Major Career Shift: Report
Joe Mantegna Issues Statement After Sudden Memorial Day Concert Hosting Change
Criminal Mindsstar Joe Mantegnahas co-hosted the National Memorial Day Concert on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., for nearly two decades and was scheduled to return this year. Unfortunately, he was unable to make it. Instead, Gary Sinise will be seen alongside West Wing actress Mary McCormack, who stepped in to fill the role at the last minute.
It was a stunning move that seemingly no one saw coming, and Mantegna's initial statement regarding the change in plans was vague.
Initially, he shared in a statement, "I truly wish I could be there in person this year but due to unforeseen circumstances, I need to remain in Los Angeles. I’m looking forward to joining the millions of Americans watching this Sunday’s concert on PBS and continuing to do everything I can to support this important event for years to come."
On Memorial Day, Mantegna shared even more insight into his absence in a lengthy statement shared to Instagram. This time, a written message was posted with "America the Beautiful" playing in the background. He captioned it simply, "A note from Joe. 🇺🇸"
"For more than two decades, I've had the profound honor of hosting the National Memorial Day Concert, an experience that has meant more to me than words can properly express," Mantegna began. "Year after year, standing in our nation's capital and helping honor the courage, sacrifice, and service of our military heroes and their families has been one of the greatest privileges of my life."
View this post on InstagramThe 78-year-old actor went on to say that he had "hoped to close this chapter" with one more year of hosting duties but unfortunately, that did not happen. Instead, he explained, "I could never allow myself to give anything less than my whole heart to something that deserves nothing short of that. As hard as it was to step away, I knew it was time to pass the baton."
While Mantegna was not in attendance this year, he was watching and made sure to compliment the show, calling it a "beautiful and moving broadcast."
The National Memorial Day Concert began in 1989. Each year, on the Sunday before the national holiday, it honors the lives of those who chose military service and their families. This year, the live PBS broadcast included Noah Wyle, Andy Grammer,Alan Jackson, Laura Osnes, and Mickey Guyton.
1979 Rock Classic, Famously Resurging 40 Years Later, Carried a Sad Twist
In 1979, Little River Band released a soft rock anthem that would become one of the group's defining songs.
Four decades later, "Lonesome Loser" experienced an emotional resurgence when former frontman Glenn Shorrock revisited the classic on his 2019 solo album.
Originally written by band member David Briggs, "Lonesome Loser" blended sharp songwriting, soaring harmonies and emotional vulnerability into a song that resonated strongly with listeners during the late 1970s soft rock boom.
The track became one of Little River Band's biggest international hits and helped cement the Australian group's place on American radio alongside acts like Eagles and Fleetwood Mac. Its lyrics about disappointment, insecurity and emotional isolation gave the song a bittersweet depth beneath its polished production and catchy melodies.
Over time, "Lonesome Loser" evolved into one of the band's most recognizable songs and a staple of classic rock and soft rock playlists.
But the song took on added emotional weight in 2019 when Shorrock recorded a new version for his solo album, Glenn Shorrock Sings Little River Band. The project saw the singer revisiting many of the songs most closely tied to his career decades after Little River Band's original rise to fame.
"I basically tried to keep my voice in front rather than letting the harmonies drive the songs, like we did in the band," Shorrock told Billboard. "I left out a lot of the a cappella harmonies we did, like on 'Lonesome Loser.' I just wanted it to be a little more funky and modern sounding."
The revisit carried a particularly poignant undertone because of the complicated history surrounding the band's legacy and lineup changes over the years. Disputes over the Little River Band name and ownership had long created tension between former members and the touring version of the group that continued performing without several classic-era musicians.
"We're the only rock band in history where all of the originals are in one camp and the people that own the name, with no originals, are in the other," singer Graeham Goble told Ultimate Classic Rock.
For many longtime fans, hearing Shorrock return to "Lonesome Loser" felt both nostalgic and bittersweet, a reminder of the original chemistry that helped make the song timeless in the first place.
Even 40 years after its release, the track's themes of loneliness and perseverance continued to resonate.
Today, "Lonesome Loser" remains one of Little River Band’s most enduring classics, a soft rock anthem whose emotional honesty has only deepened with time.
Related: 1972 Rock Classic, Originally Written During Iconic World Tour, Became a Road Trip Anthem
'Star Trek: Strange New Worlds' Producers Reveal What Turns Captain Pike Into a Puppet
For four seasons, Star Trek: Strange New Worlds has built a reputation for unique takes including a musical episode, an animated crossover with Lower Decks, a mock-documentary, a Clue-style holodeck murder mystery. But when producers revealed at San Diego Comic-Con 2025 that Season 4 would include a puppet episode featuring the crew of the USS Enterprise reimagined in felt by Jim Henson's Creature Shop, some fans stopped laughing and started worrying. Now, eight weeks before the July 23 premiere on Paramount+, the showrunners have finally answered the question fans have been debating since that first look at a puppet version of Captain Christopher Pike staring out from the captain's chair. Namely, how does this actually happen?
In a new interview with Polygon, executive producers Alex Kurtzman and Akiva Goldsman confirmed what many suspected; it starts with a transporter. Kurtzman described 'an unexpected and terrible transporter accident' as the mechanism that transforms Pike (played by Anson Mount) into a felt version of himself. Fans probably saw this coming, as transporter malfunctions have been a Star Trek staple since the original series, most famously splitting Captain Kirk into good and evil halves in 1966's 'The Enemy Within.' What Season 4 is doing, Kurtzman and Goldsman said, is taking that reliable device and using it for something the franchise has genuinely never attempted before.
The episode is directed by Jordan Canning, who previously helmed 'Spock Amok,' 'Charades,' and 'Wedding Bell Blues' across SNW's first three seasons, and all puppetwork was created by Jim Henson's Creature Shop, the same studio behind the Muppets and Fraggle Rock. Canning also directed 'Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock' for Apple TV+, which likely made her the natural fit for the project.
What Kurtzman and Goldsman made clear is that 'natural fit' did not mean 'easy'. According to the producers, the puppet episode turned out to be harder to make than any episode the show has produced, including the Season 2 animated crossover with Lower Decks, which required blending live-action performance with full animation. Goldsman and Kurtzman said what made it work was genuine enthusiasm from both the Strange New Worlds production crew and the Creature Shop puppeteers, who turned out to be devoted Star Trek fans themselves.
Related: The Scariest 'Star Trek' Episodes Ever Made, Ranked
Fan reaction to the original SDCC teaser was divided with some fans celebrating the gonzo ambition, and others pushing back on what they saw as the show prioritizing stunts over story in its final stretch. With Season 4's premiere now weeks away and a fifth and final six-episode season following in 2027, that debate isn't going away. The cast has only added fuel. At CCXP Mexico City in May, Celia Rose Gooding described the remaining seasons as having 'final boss energy,' a phrase that sent Trek fans immediately to their keyboards.
Whether the puppet episode is the gimmick that breaks the spell or the episode that proves Strange New Worlds may have gone too far, that question won't be answered until July 23. But fans finally know where it starts; somewhere between the transporter pad and a very bad day for Captain Pike.
Need More of ‘The Boys’ Now the Show Is Over? Here Are 5 Books To Read Next
The Boys has come to an end after five wonderful seasons, and now you’re probably looking for something that will fill the void. Is there anything as wild and wacky as this Eric Kripke series?
Well, when it comes to TV shows, that can be debated. When it comes to books, there are some excellent ways to spend the time you have on your hands while waiting for Vought Rising.
Of course, the graphic novels the TV series was based on is one of the best places to start. A lot was adapted to create something unique, including the gender of characters and even the inclusion (or lack of inclusion) of some characters! You’ve likely read the set, though, because you wanted to get an idea of what to expect on the show.
So, I have five other great books to check out. Some of them are graphic novels, and some of them are literary prose that will become your next obsession.
‘Marshal Law’ by Pat Mills and Kevin O’NeillIf you need something as close to The Boys as possible, then you’ll want to check out the graphic novel Marshal Law by Pat Mills and Kevin O’Neill. It even includes superheroes!
Marshal Lawis set in a dystopian San Francisco called San Fruturo, which was rebuilt after a huge earthquake rocked the city. Of course, in this satirical graphic novel, genetic engineering has created a class of over-powered superheroes who are just as corrupt as you would expect. When someone gets power, they tend to be corrupted by it!
The titular character has been hired by the government in an attempt to police these superheroes. There is some extreme graphic violence and nudity just like you came to expect from The Boys.
‘Invincible’ by Robert KirkmanThe second graphic novel on the list has also been turned into a Prime Video series. This series has kept its graphic novel-type of animation to tell the story, but it’s often just as wild and as violent as The Boys. So, it makes sense to check out the comic series from Robert Kirkman as well.
Invincible follows Mark Grayson, who has grown up knowing that he would eventually come into his powers. However, those powers still haven’t formed, and his father, who happens to be one of the world’s most beloved heroes, Omni-Man, is disappointed. Once he does develop his powers, he ends up having to live up to high expectations.
This isn’t just a story of corrupt superheroes and trying to do the right thing. It’s also a story of growing up and trying to live up to parental expectations. While Mark may be a superhero, he struggles with issues that we can all relate to.
‘Steelheart’ by Brandon SandersonOnce you start reading Steelheart, you’ll want to read the rest of the novels in Brandon Sanderson’sThe Reckoners YA series. The first book is just a great place to start in Sanderson’s long list of novels to his name.
This is another story set in the post-apocalyptic world where superheroes roam. This came from an event known as Calamity, where random people were given god-like powers, and they’ve since become known as “Epics.” Many of them have chosen the dark side, enslaving or preying on the rest of humanity, which led to the collapse of traditional governments.
When a young orphaned may decides that he can’t live in the world that has been created, he joins a group that is killing Epics. Like Hughie on The Boys, he will do anything to get revenge against the Epic called Steelheart for the death of his father years earlier.
‘The Future’ by Naomi AldermanDo you want to step away from the superheroes for a little while? There are still ways to get these dystopian worlds that are full of corrupt and powerful people. The Future by Naomi Alderman is one of those worlds.
In this world, billionaires have hoarded resources to the point that civilization is crumbling. Lai Zhen and Martha Einkorn have to figure out how to just live their lives in this dystopian landscape, while finding ways that they can make things better.
There’s an uncomfortably dark element to the story, as it feels a lot more real than other stories of corruption we’ve covered on this list so far. There’s a lot to consider when it comes to how the wealthy control the majority, despite being in the minority. I would urge you to be in the right mindset for this tale.
‘Dungeon Crawler Carl’ by Matt DinnimanAre you ready for an absolutely wild series that will become your next obsession? As much as you think yes, I will tell you that you’re not ready for the LitRPG that is Dungeon Crawler Carl by Matt Dinniman. No matter how much you prepare, you will not be ready for just how much one man and his ex-girlfriend’s cat will take over your life.
Dungeon Crawler Carlis the first in a planned 10-book series. There are eight books out so far, and each book is just as epic as the last. You’re transported into a world where aliens have taken over and placed all the humans into a video game. There’s an AI that takes over, showrunners who are trying to control the reality series going on, and spectators who are voting, cheering, and wanting to see people die!
This is perfect for The Boys fans who just loved how wild the first season was. It’s also the best option for Ready Player One fans and anyone who loves video games and shows like Survivor. I don’t think there’s anyone who will hate the story, unless you hate wacky!
Country Music Icon Gave an Emotional, Music-Themed Commencement Speech to a Top Southern College
On May 9, Eric Church delivered the commencement speech for the students of The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Before the speech, he made a statement saying, “Being asked to be the Commencement speaker at North Carolina is one of the greatest honors I’ve ever had. Being a Tar Heel ‘born, bred, dead’ and knowing what the school has meant to me and my family, it’s surreal. To be able to be there and celebrate the future, the students at the University of North Carolina as they go onto their next journey, I’m honored to do it, and I can’t wait to see everybody there.”
Related: Dolly Parton Won’t Go on Dollywood Rides: ‘Any Number of Things Could Happen to Me on Those Rides'
During the speech, Church brought out an acoustic guitar and compared life to music. "The difference between a life that sounds like music and a life that sounds like noise is whether you stop and listen," he said, according to USA TODAY. "Whether you're honest enough to hear which string has drifted out of tune and humble enough to make the adjustment instead of just turning up the volume and hoping nobody notices."
Church continued, "The part of you that knows what the chords should sound like will always notice. It will not let you go. Life won't be right until it is tuned. Trust what your heart hears and is telling you about your song."
Church closed his speech with a performance of his 2009 song “Carolina.” The country star also said, "There's a sound only you can make, a voice that has never existed before you and will never exist again: a contribution only you can bring, a way of seeing that belongs to only you. The world does not need another cover song. It needs an original."
Related: 1964 Beatles Cover Became a Hit That Paul McCartney Was ‘Honored By’ 62 Years Ago
Chancellor Lee H. Roberts spoke about why Church was the perfect person to give the speech. “A proud North Carolinian and one of country music’s most influential voices, Eric Church has long been a devoted Tar Heel fan and supporter of our University,” he said. “A true legend, he has shaped the music industry and inspired generations of artists and audiences alike. His significant efforts to help rebuild western North Carolina after Hurricane Helene reflect his steadfast commitment to his hometown and our state. I am confident his perspective will encourage the Class of 2026 as they begin the next stage of their lives.”
Hobby Lobby's $2 Vintage-Inspired Table Find Is So Elegant, Shoppers Are Buying 8 at a Time
There's something about a well-styled table that can instantly shift the entire feel of a space. Even the most basic dinner setup starts to look intentional when the right textures, layers and vintage-inspired touches come into play. Lately, tablescaping has moved way beyond holidays or special occasions. People are styling their tables for everyday life now, from casual brunches and birthday dinners to even low-key takeout nights that still somehow end up looking Pinterest-ready.
A big part of the shift is how much people are leaning into making ordinary moments feel a little more thoughtful. It's candles lit on a random weekday, decorative trays sitting on coffee tables as they belong in a styled shoot and place settings layered enough to feel like something out of a wedding reception. Social media has definitely played a role in pushing that creativity, but it's also made something else clear: you don't need expensive designer dinnerware to pull off a polished look.
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White Vintage Scalloped Charger Plate, $1.99 At Hobby LobbyHobby Lobby
That's exactly why the White Vintage Scalloped Charger Plate from Hobby Lobby is getting so much attention. At just $1.99, it delivers that vintage-inspired elegance people usually expect from much more expensive tableware. The scalloped edge is what really sells it, adding a soft, decorative detail that immediately elevates the entire place setting. The white base with black trim keeps it versatile, too, so it can blend into just about any aesthetic.
Scalloped edges, in general, are having a real moment because they bring in that balance people are looking for. Straight, clean lines can sometimes feel a little rigid or overly formal, especially on a dining table. Curved detailing does the opposite. It softens everything up, adds movement and makes even a simple setup feel more thoughtful.
The 13-inch oversized design also plays a big role in why it photographs so well and fits into that designer table look people keep recreating online. Charger plates sit beneath standard dinnerware and instantly add layers, making the whole table feel more styled and complete.
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Another big reason pieces like this are taking off is simple affordability. People want their homes to feel elevated, but they also want decorating to stay realistic. Spending under $2 on something that can instantly upgrade a holiday table, bridal shower setup, dinner party, or even a regular weeknight meal feels like the kind of small luxury shoppers are leaning into right now.
The black detailing is also what gives this charger its year-round versatility. It can easily shift depending on how it's styled. Pair it with metallic accents and candles, and it leans more elegant and formal for holiday hosting. Mix it with natural wood tones, linen napkins and neutral ceramics, and it feels more minimal and modern.
Even though the charger plate isn't meant for direct food use, it still plays an important role in creating that layered, styled table look people keep recreating online. It's one of those foundational pieces that quietly does the heavy lifting.
For less than the price of a coffee, this decorative charger from Hobby Lobby taps directly into the rise of affordable luxury home decor. It's a simple reminder that you don't always need more pieces, just better styling choices, and sometimes the smallest details end up making the biggest visual impact.
Related: The $25 Kitchen Organizer That Makes Your Under-Sink Cabinet Actually Usable
Mountain Dew Officially Brings Back a New Version of Limited-Edition Flavor — At One Chain Only
Mountain Dew just quietly revived one of its limited-edition flavors, but fans will only be able to find it at one chain. The soda company is bringing back Mountain Dew Blackberry Citrus, rebranded from Mountain Dew Game Fuel, which debuted in 2024 as part of a tie-in promotion for World of Warcraft.
The beverage's comeback is an extremely exclusive one, as it is only available at Casey's locations. According to its website, each 20-ounce bottle of the drink retails for $2.89.
The drop was announced on social media on Sunday, May 24, by snack blog @candyhunting. "New Blackberry Citrus Mountain Dew is headed exclusively to Casey's now!" a post showcasing a photo of the bottles on shelves was captioned. The soft drink is a dark purple-colored liquid, while the label features bright pops of green, purple, yellow, and blue with berry graphics.
View this post on InstagramShoppers hopped into the comments section of the Instagram upload with conflicting thoughts: excited for the release, yet disappointed about the limited availability. "Bummed they chose a flavor like this as an exclusive for a store where the closest location is like 5 states away from me haha," one such person expressed.
"I need this flavor no Casey in my state," another agreed.
A third said the flavor is a "Need.❤️," while someone else pointed out the name change: "No fancy name? Just straight up blackberry citrus."
Meanwhile, yet another seemed adamant about getting their hands on the flavor, one way or another, writing, "I need a plug 🔌."
On the other hand, someone who claims to have tasted it wasn't impressed. "Honestly not that impressed with it, has bit too much of a dye flavor to it. Does taste more tolerable when eating something rather than just drinking it alone," they shared, in part.
Related: Mountain Dew White Out Is Back—and It's More Exclusive Than Ever
Walmart Has an 'Adorable' $12 Crochet Tote Bag in 4 Colors That’s 'Perfect for the Beach'
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With summer right around the corner, having a reliable bag for all your outings is key. You’ll want something that can handle trips to the beach or pool without falling apart. Plus, not every tote is spacious enough to carry all your belongings while still looking cute with your favorite warm-weather outfits.
You don’t have to spend much to get a great option, either. The Gocvo Crochet Bag checks all the boxes, and right now, it’s on sale at Walmart, bringing the price down from $17 to just $12.
Gocvo Crochet Bag, $12 (was $17) at Walmart Shop at WalmartThis tote is designed with functionality in mind. In terms of size, the bag measures 12.5 inches long, 10 inches wide, and 11.2 inches tall, with 9.5-inch handles that sit comfortably on your shoulder. It’s roomy enough to carry everything you need without feeling bulky. The spacious main compartment has room for towels, magazines, sunscreen, and water bottles.
Made from a blend of cotton and polyester, the bag is both lightweight and durable. The breathable crochet design allows items to dry quickly, which helps prevent odors from damp towels or clothing. It comes in four great colors, including two khaki shades, white, and black.
It’s also easy to travel with. The flexible material makes it simple to fold and pack into a suitcase or keep in your car as a backup bag. The soft knitted fabric won’t trap sand and is easy to clean, which makes it especially practical for outdoor use. It’s great for everything from beach and pool days to travel, picnics, and everyday errands.
Related: Walmart’s 'Beautiful' $6 Blouse Is a Summer Wardrobe Staple, and It Comes in 20 Colors
The tote comes in five easy-to-style colors: four neutral beige shades and one classic black option. Its simple design pairs well with everything from swimwear to jeans and a T-shirt or even a breezy maxi-dress.
This popular style has over 150 five-star ratings. One shopper shared, “It holds quite a few items and is perfect for the beach. It’s a great and sturdy material for the price.” Another wrote, “It’s adorable, the perfect size, and has an excellent value. I get so many compliments on this bag. It is so versatile and can be used for just about anything!”
For a summer-ready bag you can use just about anywhere, the Gocvo Crochet Bag is a practical and affordable pick. With Walmart’s current discount, you can grab this versatile tote for as low as $12.
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Jessica Simpson Shines on Stage During Major Music Comeback
Jessica Simpson is so back.
The singer, who has performed intermittently in one-off shows over the years, kicked off her first tour in over a decade in Oklahoma on Friday. Taking to Instagram on Saturday, with a video clip from the show, where she was singing "These Boots Are Made for Walkin'" on stage, she reflected on her return.
"Tulsa, you brought the energy last night! Couldn’t have asked for a better start to this run of shows. I missed singin’ with y’all!" she captioned the clip, which also included a post-show video message from her and the band.
"We just got off stage we had an awesome show tonight and we can't wait to perform for all of you again," she said.
View this post on InstagramAnd fans absolutely loved it.
"Literally one of the best nights of my life!" one wrote.
"YOU were AMAZING sis!" added another. "Such a treat to meet you and watch you kill it on stage once again. BEST NIGHT EVER!"
"You sounded amazing, the dress was fitted RIGHT baby and you owned that stage," said a third.
"What a thrill it was watching you command that stage!" echoed another.
Related: From Music to Merch, Find Out All About Jessica Simpson's Net Worth in 2026
Simpson, who, along with the Nancy Sinatra cover, is known for her hits "With You" and "Irresistible," released new music last year with two separate albums: "Nashville Canyon: Part 1" released in March 2025 and "Nashville Canyon: Part 2" released in September 2025.
In the time since her last music release — a Christmas album in 2010 — Simpson's personal life somewhat stayed in the spotlight as she welcomed her three children with her now-ex, former NFL player Eric Johnson, whom she split from in 2025. The singer also revealed in her 2020 memoir, 'Open Book,' that she previously suffered from addiction to alcohol and prescription pills.
“I’ve lived through the hardest parts of life, and music is what has brought me back,” Simpson said of her latest project in a statement obtained by Billboard.com. “'Nashville Canyon' is for anyone who’s ever been told who they are or how they should live their life. It’s about finding your true voice and the courage to be exactly who you are.”
Simpson and her band are heading to Rohnert Park, California in the next stop of their tour, according to her website.
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If You Love ‘The Agathas,’ You Need To Check Out Liz Lawson’s Adult Debut
You know Liz Lawson for her YA novels, such as The Agathas and Murder Between Friends. Now it’s time for her adult debut, It Happened One Murder.
Parade recently chatted with Lawson about the debut, including why she made the move from YA to adult. It was a great tease into what to expect with this cozy mystery that is also a romance at its heart. Now it’s time to delve deeper into what to expect when it’s released on May 26, 2026.
It Happened One Murder brings a story of life to the murder. Harriet Baker returns to a small New Jersey island, Logan Island, when she’s fired from her job. She tried to make a go of it in New York, with the intention never to return to Logan Island, but now she’s back and living with her mother again.
On top of that, she bumps into a man from high school she doesn’t immediately recognize. As they get off to a bad start, you know there’s going to be a somewhat enemies-to-lovers trope thrown into the murder mystery that kicks off early into the story.
There’s a beautifully written story as Harriet tries to figure out her life. It Happened One Murder is a dual-POV story, but I found myself preferring Harriet’s chapters over Nic’s. Part of that could be that I related to her more, but there was also a lot more intrigue as she started the investigation into the murder — I don’t want to give away who was murdered or who the suspect was!
What I will say is that there’s much more to the story than initially meets the eye. Logan Island PD is hellbent on pinning the murder on one woman, but she’s adamant that she didn’t do it. Mixed with some people hearing conversations just before the murder that definitely didn’t involve this woman, it appears clear that the police department is covering something up.
This gives Harriet a chance to solve the case, but not for the sake of the woman who has been accused of murder. I love that there are selfish reasons involved, making it one of the more believable reasons for an amateur sleuth to throw herself into an investigation when she’s never had experience in it before. It allows her to make a mess of things at first.
Courtesy of SourcebooksNic’s chapters do help to add more to the story, so I did appreciate them. He’s looking into the murder investigation for his own reasons, but this time, it's linked to the woman who has been accused of murder. He needs to prove this woman is innocent, and at the same time, hold back his feelings — both good and bad — for Harriet.
I was a little worried about the rom-com added to the murder mystery. While there is often a little bit of romance written in between the pages of a cozy mystery, it doesn’t usually become a focus. It Happened One Murder was a pure blend of the two genres, and it worked extremely well. It felt like many 20-somethings would likely go through as they spent more time with an ex.
There is messy tension, and there’s some terrible communication. Both Harriet and Nic have major flaws, but that’s the adorableness of them. If they can just get over themselves, at times!
Lawson has a knack for mystery, and that’s not surprising when you consider her previous books. It’s clear that she reads this genre as well as writes in it, and she does an excellent job of putting in pieces of the puzzle for you to latch onto and work out. However, don’t expect to get the right answer at the end. Just as you think you’ve worked it out, the rug is pulled out from under you in a fun way!
It Happened One Murder takes us on a twisty journey that is a lot of fun at the same time. It doesn’t get too dark, making it the perfect summer murder mystery read. This is aimed at the adult fans who loved Lawson’s YA stories in The Agathas and Murder Between Friends, but it’s also perfect for those who love the quirkiness and lightness of Only Murders in the Building.
It Happened One Murder will be available on a shelf near you on May 26, 2026, and this should be on your summer reading list.
Queen Latifah Hints at Releasing New Music 17 Years After Her Last Album
Queen Latifah has captivated Hollywood as an actor for a majority of her career in hits like Set It Off, Living Single, Hairspray, The Equalizer, and rom-com classics like Last Holiday. The actor is ready to head back to her music roots, teasing new music that could drop this year.
The actor's influence goes beyond the screen, as Latifah got her start as a rapper and beat-boxer in the late '80s. She released her debut album at 19 years old in 1989, titled All Hail the Queen. It's been over a decade since Latifah released new music, and she told Variety that she has plenty of demo tracks stored away.
"I am going to try and and drop something this year. I guess I have to, at least start letting some of this music out that I’ve been holding on my computer for so long. I play it so much that I feel like it’s already out," she said.
"I think I will actually share it with the people this year. There’s nothing that really sounds like me or is my style that is out there. There’s bits and pieces here and there, but there’s only one me, so I think I need to put some of this music out."
She adds that the possible album or released tracks will be a mix of genres like hip-hop, jazz, and soul. Latifah's last album was in 2009, titled Persona, with the track "Cue the Rain" released as the lead single. Since then, the actor sang alongside Tony Bennett in a duet for "Who Can I Turn To" for his 2011 album.
The actor and rapper hasn't released a track under her solo career. She does appear in the 2025 track "Lite It Up" alongside other known artists like Rah Digga. Since the start of her career, Latifah has been seen as an influential artist with some of her earliest tracks talking about domestic violence and street harassment. Her single "U.N.I.T.Y" became a signature track that won her a Grammy and entered the Billboard Hot 100 charts.
In 2026, Latifah was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and announced she would be a judge on The Voice. She will also step up as the host for this year's American Music Awards, 11 years since she last took the stage.
Aldi's $15 Kitchen Staple Is Nearly Identical to a Designer Style Over 7x the Price
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While Aldi is a great place to shop for a wide range of home and kitchen needs, where it really shines is in its sprawling collection of product dupes. From kitchen essentials and electronics to home decor staples, snacks and frozen food favorites, any given week brings the opportunity to find an affordably priced version of a product that might otherwise be outside your budget.
Case in point: the Crofton Mini Awesome Pan, a fan-favorite $15 cookware staple that bears a striking resemblance to an Our Place style priced at more than seven times the cost. Currently back in stock and already flying off shelves, this sleek and stylish frying pan is your ticket to elevated home cooking and a more high-end kitchen look without breaking the bank.
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Crofton Mini Awesome Pan, $14.99 at AldiWhether you're whipping up a quick meal for one or serving multiple guests, a reliable fry pan is exactly the tool you need to make the process as seamless as possible. Perfect for making scrambled eggs and pancakes for breakfast, sautéing veggies, making sauces and searing your favorite cuts of meat, all it takes is a decently sized pan and a bit of inspiration to bring any meal to life.
With the Crofton Mini Awesome Pan, you're getting a slightly smaller version of its full-sized counterpart, complete with an eight-inch cooking surface, cast aluminum construction for uniform heat distribution and a nonstick finish that makes cooking and cleanup a breeze. Add a tempered glass lid with a steam vent, and this mealtime hero is ready to lock in flavor and handle all your go-to recipes.
Related: Costco's $29 8-Piece Barbecue Set Makes Summer Cookouts Easier Than Ever
Designer Style for LessCurrently available in red, gray and blue, this pan really shines for its striking resemblance to the Our Place Mini Always Pan 2.0. Retailing at nearly seven times less than its Our Place counterpart, Crofton's Mini Awesome Pan delivers a similar level of everyday cooking convenience without sacrificing style or reliability.
And while the Our Place version can handle oven temps up to 450°F, the Mini Awesome Pan is built for stove-to-oven use as well, with a maximum oven-safe temperature of up to 300°F. Both options also feature a similarly sized eight-inch cooking surface, a comfortable hand feel and a dishwasher-safe nonstick coating, making this Aldi deal truly a tough one to pass up.
Compatible with all cooktops, undeniably stylish and worthy of being on display at all times, it's finds like Aldi's Mini Awesome Pan that make shopping at the popular discount retailer so rewarding. Don't miss out on this must-have dupe while it's still on shelves, as it's only a matter of time before it disappears until likely next season.
And if you're really enjoying the savings, check out Aldi's $13 woven serving tray for even more product dupe inspiration.
Related: Aldi Just Dropped a Colorful $7 Glassware Set Made for Summer Hosting