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Astronomers Say a Distant Star May Have 'Eaten' a Planet 1,300 Light-Years Away
Astronomers have discovered a distant star with a surprisingly human trait: it appears to have an appetite. Roughly 1,300 light-years away, researchers have identified a sun-like star that shows strong evidence of having swallowed one of its own planets.
A New Discovery Hidden in StarlightAt first glance, TOI-5882 appears to be an ordinary G-type star located about 1,300 light-years from Earth. But when scientists examined its light using spectroscopy—an technique that breaks starlight into its component wavelengths—they uncovered something unexpected.
Brooke Kotten, a researcher in the University of Michigan Department of Astronomy and lead author of the study published in The Astrophysical Journal, analyzed TOI-5882's chemical makeup and found excess traces of lithium that wasn't coming from the star itself. Because lithium is typically destroyed in a star’s interior over time, its presence in high amounts suggests something external must have brought it there recently. Also orbiting TOI-5882 is a brown dwarf — a giant ball of gas more than 20 times the mass of Jupiter — which may have helped steer the engulfed planet into the star.
Photo by Torsten Asmus on Getty Images
"You are what you eat, right?," Kotten said. "We know that there's much more lithium in planetary material than there is in stars. So if a star eats a planet, it's going to take on a bunch of lithium." She went on to compare researching the excess lithium to a scientific mystery. “We can’t just watch the crime happen, so we have to work with all the clues we’re given to figure out whodunit.”
How Astronomers Pieced Together the EvidenceWhen a star "consumes" a planet, scientists call it engulfment. An engulfment can happen so quickly, and in some cases over days or weeks, that observers might miss the planet being consumed. With spectroscopy, astronomers compared TOI-5882 to 62 other similar stars based on age, mass and temperature to piece together how the lithium ended up within its core.
“It’s not like you have to cherry-pick the data to make it stand out. It’s robust,” said Melinda Soares-Furtado, a senior author of the study and assistant professor at the University of Wisconsin. “No matter how you slice it, TOI-5882 is so enriched in lithium it shows up as being at least in the 97th percentile.”
Photo by DrPixel on Getty Images
What This Means for Earth's Distant FutureThe idea of a star taking a quick bite out of a planet sounds like science fiction, but studying planetary engulfments can reveal how evolution unfolds beyond our world. As stars age, their gravity and size can shift, pulling in nearby planets before consuming them entirely.
TOI-5882 also offers insight into our own solar system’s distant future. In about 5 billion years, the Sun will begin transforming into a red giant and might make a meal out of Mercury, Venus and even Earth. For now, the latest discovery TOI-5882 offers astronomers a peek into a cosmic process unfolding across the galaxy and might reveal something unique about our own position in the solar system.
The 'Regression Trap': Why Doing Nothing in Retirement Can Actually Harm Your Mind, According to Psychologists
Careers are long and often physically and emotionally taxing, so the idea of getting to rest in retirement sounds like the perfect way to recharge. However, after six months of doing nothing, you’ll likely have found yourself the opposite of restored.
Brain fog, low energy, and a lack of motivation all plague you, and you aren’t sure why. This is the “Regression Trap” that many new retirees fall into, and unless you do something about it now, you’ll waste your next chapter not having done anything at all.
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What Is The Regression TrapThis trap begins when a career-exhausted retiree finally has the time to rest and recharge, but then becomes trapped in the cycle of inactivity that leads to feeling even worse. The overcorrection leads to a passive lifestyle that creates issues with both cognitive and mood decline. Once those set in, it becomes even harder to break out of the trap.
This typically surfaces in the first 6 months to a year after retirement. According to Hartford Funds, the “honeymoon phase” of retirement in that time span is when we think everything will be one long vacation, but quickly find that it isn’t fulfilling.
Dr. Sal Raichbach, PsyD, LCSW, CFSW, Chief Clinical Officer at The Haven Detox, has seen how quickly lack of structure, connection, and daily purpose can affect both mood & functioning.
“The 'Regression Trap' is when retirement is no longer providing a restoration experience, but rather a withdrawal experience. Too many years of work followed by too much resting/shutting down will shrink your world and lead to low mood, poor sleep, isolation, etc, all reinforcing each other,” says Raichbach.
It’s important to note that the Regression Trap is different from healthy forms of rest and self-care. Sleeping regularly, listening to your body when it needs a break, eating healthy, and other acts of personal maintenance don’t contribute to the issue. The Regression Trap is more about prolonged, purposeless inactivity that leads to stagnation.
Related: What Thriving Retirees Do With 168 Hours a Week That Others Don't
The Warning SignsHelp Guide tells us that there are several warning signs to watch out for. If you’ve experienced even 2-3 of these symptoms, you should talk to your doctor.
- Sleeping significantly more but feeling less rested
- Loss of interest in hobbies that previously brought joy
- Increased irritability or low-grade sadness without a clear cause
- Brain fog or difficulty concentrating on simple tasks
- Social withdrawal — fewer calls, outings, or plans
- A creeping sense of purposelessness or "now what?”
Raichbach says that there are warning signs retirees and their families should look out for.
“Pay attention to the way days start to lose their shape. Are they sleeping in later? Skipping meals? Neglecting personal hygiene? Avoiding plans? Moving less? Spending the majority of their waking time watching TV, scrolling through screens, or napping? Also, pay attention to the amount of social interaction.”
"In relation to that, you may notice that the individual is becoming more emotionally withdrawn," says Jon Siegel, President and Founder of The Perfect Companion, and former geriatric psychotherapist, "they're hesitant to take on new social interactions, they may be resistant to attempts to engage them in new interests, and/or they may become agitated or irritable if encouraged to take on any more responsibility for their self-care, which obviously can lead to a type of depression."
These signs aren’t random; there is a neurological reason why this happens.
Why This HappensThe National Institute on Aging tells us that our brains are “use it or lose it” organs. When we slow down for long periods of time, we begin to lose cognitive function. The structured routines of work help maintain cognitive functioning, so the loss of that structure needs to be replaced.
Drew Maygren, DO, geriatric psychiatrist for Kaiser Permanente in Northern California, says, "You cannot treat retirement as a permanent vacation–it must be approached with intention, where you replace your work schedule with a life schedule. Develop and consistently maintain your portfolio of body, brain, people, and purpose by doing something physically active, something creatively engaging, something social, and something that helps you feel valued or useful rather than merely entertained."
When you’re performing a job, says the National Institute on Aging again, you get little dopamine rewards from tasks completed. Every time you finished a project, hit a deadline, or met a goal, your brain got a little boost. Now that you’re in retirement, you need to replicate that rewards system. The best part is that you no longer are obligated to perform those tasks for others. Retirement means setting up your own system of rewards that benefit you.
Doing so will help you stave off the depression and loss of self that comes with the end of a career, something the Mayo Clinic warns may happen. So many of us are defined by “what we do” that no longer doing that thing can leave a void. This is why many retirees feel depressed, anxious, or listless after the initial “honeymoon phase” of retirement wears off.
Finding purpose in your next chapter is on your own terms, but it is necessary to maintain healthy longevity.
How to Avoid or Escape The TrapRetirement is meant to be all about you. That means that your new routine should be specific to how you want to spend your time.
“Take a smaller step than you think you need to. Take a 10 minute walk. Make one telephone call. Sign up for a single class. Schedule one session of therapy. The Lancet Commission identified physical inactivity, depression and social isolation as three modifiable risk factors for developing dementia,” says Raichbach.
You could volunteer at a cause you care about, engage in purely cognitive activities like taking a language or music class, take a small, part time job, or set goals for yourself like growing your own food in a home garden.
"A career gives us more than a paycheck; it gives us daily proof that we matter—that is, to feel valued by those around us and have the opportunity to add value back. When the structure of a job or career disappears, retirees can face a ‘mattering crisis,’ an eroding sense of identity and purpose," says Jennifer Breheny Wallace, author of MATTERING: The Secret to a Life of Deep Connection and Purpose.
"That’s why any retirement planning should include not just a wealth and health plan but also a mattering plan: a deliberate strategy for building the relationships, roles, and contributions that will keep you feeling valued, useful, and needed in the decades to come," Wallace notes. "In practice, that might mean mentoring younger colleagues or creating a regular family or community responsibility that makes you feel valued and depended on."
The most important thing you can do is balance the need for intellectual stimulation, social engagement, and achievement. Deadlines, reoccurring schedules, and challenges will all go a long way toward keeping you physically and mentally fit long into your retirement.
It’s important to remember that while you don’t need to have an activity scheduled every day, you should have a structure to your day. The happiest retirees have structure baked into their routine.
Related: 20 Inspiring Ideas to Make the Most of Your Retirement Bucket List
Rest Is Not the EnemyTaking time to relax and recharge after a lengthy career is not the same as doing nothing. The danger lies in the unexamined and purposeless rest that may plague you. Retirement is a transition that deserves as much planning and thought as the rest of your life did. If you want to have a long, happy retirement, the key is to stay active, no matter what that looks like for you,
Once you find your rhythm, you’ll see how much brighter and more fulfilling your days are. It’s worth putting in the effort. You deserve it.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute advice.
- Hartford Funds — "The Honeymoon Phase of Retirement"
- HelpGuide — "Depression in Older Adults: Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment"
- National Institute on Aging — "Cognitive Health and Older Adults"
- National Institutes of Health — "Dopamine Affects How the Brain Decides Whether a Goal Is Worth the Effort"
- Mayo Clinic — "Depression in Older Adults: Q&A"
- Harvard Health Publishing — "How Isolation Affects Memory and Thinking Skills"
Netflix Is Quietly Removing One of the Best Crime Comedies of the Last Decade — But There's Good News for U.S. Fans (For Now)
The countdown is on for another NBC series to leave Netflix. At least, to leave it globally. This is your last call to binge-watch the crime dramedy series Good Girls.
Running for four seasons, Good Girls was billed as a Netflix Original outside of the United States. Just like with many other shows that have been billed as Originals, the licensing agreement is coming to an end.
Good Girls ran for four seasons on NBC, with the global Netflix deal helping to carry some of the financial burden. There was hope for a fifth season. In fact, NBC was originally going to renew the show for Season 5, but it couldn’t find a way to make the financials work, even with Netflix. There was hope that the streaming giant would step in and save the show for just a wrap-up season, but that never happened either.
What’s On Netflix has confirmed that all four seasons of the Christina Hendricks-led series will exit the streamer on July 22, 2026. That makes July 21 as the last day to be able to watch the show in full. This is only for international locations, though. Most of the ENglish-speaking locations will lose it, including Canada, United Kingdom, and Australia.
Retta as Ruby Hill, Christina Hendricks as Beth Boland and Mae Whitman as Annie Marks in Good GirlsAs an NBCUniversal series, it opens the door for other platforms to land the iconic crime comedy series. In the United States, we’d say that it would head to Peacock next, but that platform isn’t available internationally. So, there is sure to be some sort of bidding war between the platforms that are available.
What about the United States? Good Girls will remain for now. Emphasis on the “for now” part of the statement. It’s still an NBCUniversal series, and Netflix still only has licensing rights to it. Eventually, we’re sure to see the deal come to an end, just like it has recently done with Gilmore Girls and is happening with Seinfeld.
These deals tend to last for somewhere between five and 10 years after the final season airs. Good Girls Season 4 arrived on Netflix in 2022, so we’re looking at 2027 as the earliest that it is likely to lose the series.
Good Girls was an immediate hit with fans. It told the story of three women struggling financially. After they decide to rob the workplace of one of the women, they soon learn that there was far more money in the safe than expected. That money belonged to a local gang, and now the three women have to do work for the gang or risk being killed, and the whole time, they have the authorities after them for the initial bank robbery. How bad could it get?
‘Heated Rivalry’ and ‘Superman’ Stars Team up for an Unforgettable Broadway Revival
After a successful year of TV and film for Heated Rivalry’s François Arnaud and Superman’s David Corenswet, the two will be making their Broadway debut together in a revival of Three Days of Rain.
Alongside Yvonne Strahovski from The Handmaid’s Tale, the actors will star in the show that premiered off-Broadway nearly 30 years ago at the Manhattan Theatre Club. The show later appeared on Broadway, marking the debuts of Julia Roberts and Bradley Cooper, featuring Paul Rudd.
The show will be Strahovski’s first time on Broadway since she made her debut in the 2012 revival of Golden Boy. She shared the Three Days of Rain announcement on social media, simply captioning it “Broadway called again ☎️ 💥”
Three Days of Rain was written by Richard Greenberg. The first act follows three children of successful architects as they gather to settle their parents’ estates, while the second act flashes back to the past, featuring the same actors as their own parents.
View this post on InstagramPlaybill reported that Arnaud will star as Pip and Theo, Corenswet as Walker and Ned, and Strahovski as Nan and Lina. Performances will begin in February 2027 at a Shubert Organization-owned theatre and will be directed by Anna D. Shapiro.
"Three Days of Rain is truly one of the most beautiful plays I’ve ever done or experienced," Shapiro said in a statement, according to Playbill. "Steeped in the brilliantly funny and enchantingly complex world of Richard Greenberg, the story follows two generations of New York intelligentsia as they navigate the burden of family, the seduction of art, and the necessity of love over time and eternity."
Arnaud posted the announcement on his Instagram story with the caption, “Dream play, dream team, dream everything.”
While dates for the performances and ticket sales haven’t been announced yet, fans can sign up for first access to tickets at ThreeDaysOfRain.com.
‘Ted Lasso’ Is Back — And Fans Can Watch a New Episode With the Cast at New Exclusive NYC Event
After three long years away from AFC Richmond, Ted Lasso fans are finally getting a chance to reunite with their favorite coach, and they can do it alongside the cast themselves.
The Paley Center for Media has announced a special PaleyLive event celebrating the highly anticipated return of Apple TV+'s Emmy Award-winning comedy. Titled "Ted Lasso Returns! An Exclusive Evening with the Cast of Season 4," the one-night-only event will take place on Thursday, Aug. 6th at 8 p.m. ET at The Paley Museum in Midtown Manhattan.
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The event will take place just one day after the new season premieres on Apple TV+ and offers fans the opportunity to be among the first to see what's next for Ted and the Richmond crew. Attendees will enjoy a screening of the Season 4 premiere episode, along with an exclusive first look at Episode 2. Following the screenings, members of the cast and creative team will participate in a conversation about the new season and the show's long-awaited return.
"It has been three years since fans last cheered on Ted Lasso and the beloved AFC Richmond squad, and we are thrilled to welcome them back to the pitch for this can't-miss event at The Paley Museum," said Maureen J. Reidy, President and CEO of The Paley Center for Media, in a statement. "The evening promises to be filled with laughter and plenty of Richmond spirit."
Related: ‘Ted Lasso’ Season 4 Release Date Finally Announced — And the First Trailer Says a Lot
Season 4 finds Ted Lasso (Jason Sudeikis) back in Richmond and facing his biggest challenge yet: Coaching a second-division women's football team. According to the official synopsis from Apple, Ted and his players will spend the season learning to take chances and embrace the unknown.
The event also arrives during a milestone year for The Paley Museum, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary following the reopening of its newly renovated theaters and public spaces.
Tickets are now on sale to all Paley President’s Circle, Patron Circle, and Partner Members; to Paley Individual, Family, and Supporting Members on Wednesday, July 1 at noon ET; and to the general public on Friday, July 17 at noon ET.
For Ted Lasso fans eager to get back on the field, this may be the ultimate way to kick off a new season.
Rolling Stones' New Single Gets Steamy Music Video With These Red-Hot Stars
The Rolling Stones are sounding as "youthful" in their latest release, leading up to yet another album drop after all these decades.
On Thursday, June 25, the renowned rock group debuted its new single “Jealous Lover” alongside a steamy and expertly choreographed music video directed by Chris Barrett & Luke Taylor (who have also collaborated with Radiohead and Jack White) and starring Anya Taylor-Joy and Charles Melton.
The single is the latest to be unveiled from their forthcoming studio album Foreign Tongues, due for release on July 10 via Capitol Records.
The video, which is teased in the promotional image below, is available to watch right now exclusively on Amazon Music here.
(Amazon Music)As anticipation for the album continues to build, “Jealous Lover” is yet another example of the band's ability to move between musical styles. Following the upbeat pop-rock energy of previous single “In the Stars,” the new track embraces a soulful R&B groove, anchored by a captivating falsetto lead vocal from the one and only Mick Jagger.
For those who don't have immediate access to Amazon Music, take a listen to "Jealous Lover" below, thanks to today's audio-only YouTube upload:
Fans have already flooded the post's comments section with their love and support for the Stones' latest single. "They sound with such youthful energy that it's amazing ❤," wrote one YouTube user, while another person commented, "Mick singing in hi pitched voice at his age .. amazing 👏."
The track is powered by expressive guitar work from Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood, while the rhythm section of Darryl Jones on bass and Steve Jordan on drums and percussion provides a deep and assured groove. Plus, longtime friend and collaborator Steve Winwood adds distinctive Rhodes and organ textures. Additional instrumentation from producer Andrew Watt and keyboardist Matt Clifford further enhances the song's warm, soulful sound.
“Jealous Lover” comes with another track from Foreign Tongues, titled “Divine Intervention,” which is one of two tracks from the album to feature The Cure frontman Robert Smith.
Martha Stewart’s 'Lightweight' Skechers Slip-in Wedges Are a 'Great Summer Sandal,' Now 25% Off for Amazon Prime Day
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Few people have built a lifestyle empire quite like Martha Stewart. From hosting and gardening to home decor and entertaining, her name has become synonymous with fabulous taste. That influence extends to fashion, too, which is why her collaboration with Skechers feels like such a natural pairing. The Skechers Martha Stewart Parallel Lite Bliss Slip-Ins, in particular, combine the brand’s comfort-first approach with the easy, polished style Martha is known for.
And thanks to Amazon's Prime Day event, they're now a lot cheaper to add to your wardrobe. These sandals are currently marked down 25%, bringing the original $80 price tag down to $60. With a hands-free design and versatile look that works for everything from vacation sightseeing and weekend errands to backyard entertaining, they fit seamlessly into your summer plans.
Skechers Martha Stewart Parallel Lite Bliss Slip-Ins, From $60 (was $80) at Amazon Shop at AmazonDubbed as a “great summer sandal” that’s “lightweight" and “beyond comfortable,” the upper of this shoe is crafted from a textured shimmer knit that wraps across the foot in one continuous panel, creating an almost sock-like appearance. The knit itself features an intricate, raised weave pattern that adds depth and dimension throughout the surface, giving the sandal a rich, tactile look. Open cutouts at the sides keep the coverage airy and breathable, which is especially important in warm weather. Adding a touch of polish, a faux pearl-embellished O-ring sits at the side, introducing subtle jewelry-inspired detailing.
Instead of a smooth platform, the 2.25-inch heel features finely etched horizontal ridges that wrap around the entire midsole, creating a layered, architectural effect. Those sculpted lines help break up the volume of the wedge, making it appear lighter and more refined than a traditional solid heel. The contoured memory foam footbed cushions the foot, helping distribute pressure more evenly throughout the day while providing a soft, supportive feel with every step.
A flexible traction outsole adds grip and stability, making the sandal feel secure on a variety of surfaces. The hands-free, slip-on-and-off construction is designed for easy step-in wear, eliminating the need to bend down and fuss with adjustments, while the built-in heel pillow hugs the back of the foot to help keep it comfortably in place and reduce slipping as you walk.
These sandals are available in sizes 5 through 11, including half sizes, making it easy to find a comfortable fit. They also come in three color options, giving you a few versatile choices depending on what pairs best with your wardrobe. At the time of writing, the sage green and navy blue versions are the most affordable, both marked down to $60.
Shoppers shared their thoughts on these “stylish” and “superb” sandals in the reviews section. One reviewer called them “the most comfortable wedges for walking,” sharing that they held up well through hours of “sightseeing on vacation.”
Shop More Deals- Skechers Martha Stewart Glide Step Pro Sandal, from $51 (was $70) at Amazon
- Skechers Martha Stewart Pier-Lite My Reflection Shoe, from $40 (was $50) at Amazon
- Skechers Martha Stewart Reggae Cup Coastal Trail Sandal, $49 (was $56) at Amazon
If your summer wardrobe could use a comfortable sandal with a little Martha Stewart polish, the $60 Skechers Martha Stewart Parallel Lite Bliss Slip-Ins are worth a look. Shop them now while they’re 25% off during the final days of Amazon's Prime Day event!
'Spy Kids' Stars Reunite 25 Years Later—and Say They’re ‘Brother and Sister Forever' (Exclusive)
Kids of the '90s and early '00s will immediately recognize Alexa PenaVega and Daryl Sabara as the iconic sibling duo from the 2001 hit movie Spy Kids, although they might be a bit shocked to realize that the beloved childhood classic was released a full 25 years ago.
Thankfully, no one's childhood dreams have to be shattered, as PenaVega and Sabara recently confirmed exclusively to Parade that they remain very close friends—in fact, they said, they remain family.
About their ongoing bond, Sabara shared, "We're family, you know? We're brother and sister forever, and the only person in my life who knows what I went through is her and vice versa."
PenaVega agreed, saying, "Yeah, not a lot of people understand what a special bond that we have, but even outside of that, the whole movie is based off of family and unity, so it's so cool that we are still such a family unit 25 years later."
"And now we both have our own families too, and to get our families together, we've done that before, which has been really fun and really special," Sabara added.
Regarding their families, Sabara and PenaVega shared that their kids have seen Spy Kids, with the exception of Sabara's youngest two, who are just three years old and five months old, respectively.
"I feel like they're just now getting into it," PenaVega said of her children. "My boys, I showed it to them when [they were] younger, and unfortunately they wanted Shark Boy and Lava Girl over Spy Kids, which, I was like, 'Cool. Thanks, guys.' But now they love Spy Kids."
Sabara explained, "I have a five-year-old, a three-year-old and then a five-month-old, so the three-year-old and the five-month-old, not yet, but my five-year-old has watched the first three and, yeah, he's a fan. He's kind of just in disbelief, like he's watching the screen and he's looking at me, and I'm with him. I'm like, 'Yeah, I don't know who that is either.' But, yeah, it's so fun to share with them."
Reflecting on the experience overall, Sabara said, "We're really lucky to be a part of those movies, and it's crazy that we're still talking about it 25 years later. Kind of just a testament to the movies of how, after all these years, they hold up."
PenaVega and Sabara also just worked together in collaboration with the Salvation Army to bring an incredible surprise to campers from underserved communities at a Salvation Army summer camp. The Spy Kids stars appeared together at the camp and participated in a range of spy-themed activities, including rock climbing and zip lining.
Alexa PenaVega and Daryl Sabara at a Salvation Army summer camp.Salvation Army
About the experience, PenaVega shared, "I love Salvation Army. I have been volunteering with them and working with them for years and years and years. Even when I was little, we would do a lot of volunteer work with Salvation Army. So, to be an adult now and bring my children along, it's just been a really beautiful experience."
PenaVega continued, "Today, we actually get to be a part of one of their summer camp programs...They're helping people across the country, over half a million kids, at little or no cost to each child. And that only happens because of amazing donors, people volunteering their time. I always tell people a money donation is fantastic, but if you don't have the means, donate your time. Donate stuff that you have. There are so many different ways to give back."
Sabara responded in kind, saying, "I'm so thrilled. Alexa actually got me involved in this. And summer camp is so important...just for kids to have a place to go, find a community...getting in touch with nature. So, I'm just thrilled to be a part of it."
Will 'Big Brother 28' Have Returning Players? The Case For and Against
While the summer season officially started on June 21, for Big Brother fans, it will actually kick off in two weeks. That's when Season 28 of the iconic CBS reality show premieres, opening up the doors to the house (and subsequently closing them) for another group of houseguests to duke it out in the ultimate form of cabin fever in pursuit of $750,000. But could it be possible that this year's crop of contestants is full of familiar faces?
Now, to be frank (not Eudy), if you've been a longtime Big Brother fan, you know that rumors about returning houseguests, like a visit from OTEV or Zingbot, have become an annual occurrence. Every year, in May or June, gossip begins that alumni have been contacted, production has decided on an all-stars/captains/fans vs. favorites format, etc. And most years, the rumor mill is shut down when CBS announces the actual cast and theme. It seems this year, however, discussion of returnees is more prevalent than ants at the end of any given Big Brother season. And, while Parade has no intel as to whether or not Season 28 will feature an all-new group of houseguests, with nothing to do but wait until the big July 9 premiere, we figured it could be an opportunity to, much like eviction night, hear the pleas from both metaphoric nominees.
Here are our arguments as to whether Big Brother 28 will or won't be a returnee season. And, regardless of whether it's the case, be sure to tune into the 90-minute premiere on Thursday, July 9, and check out Parade's coverage all season long!
Let's start with the less fun argument. The biggest piece of evidence in support of an all-new group of houseguests for Season 28 is that, with one exception, the "new era" of Big Brother has remained surprisingly free of returnees. Over the past five seasons of the show, among 82 houseguests, only one of them had played Big Brother before. Despite the show's consistent popularity, the producers and the casting team have been remarkably conservative about bringing people back, opting to create new fan-favorite players rather than bank on known entities.
The last time Big Brother had a season with more than one returnee was all the way back in 2020. And, to be honest, there's probably a good reason why. After years of consistent speculation, in the height of the pandemic, CBS announced its second-ever full all-star season. The cast was absolutely stacked on paper, combining old-school legends like Janelle Pierzina and Dani Briones, long-requested returns of people like Kevin Campbell and Keeha Smith, and recent standouts like Cody Calafiore, Tyler Crispen and Nicole Anthony. Unfortunately, the reality failed to live up to the high expectations set in the days leading up to the Big Brother 22 premiere.
What followed was one of the most straightforward seasons in the show's history. Nearly every competition was won by the majority alliance, which spent the first two months of the game cleanly picking off every outsider. Even among those who were dominating, the general mood among the houseguests was dour and depressing (completely understandable, given what the world was going through at the time). This may be a bit of fan fiction on our part, but we could see a world where, having seen the worst-case scenario of a returnee season play out, they would be cautious to go back to the stove again.
But perhaps the biggest smoking gun against a possible returnee season is simply the fact that we haven't heard anything about it yet! Season 22 revealed its all-star theme two weeks before the premiere (even though the always-next-level sleuthing on behalf of Big Brother fans was able to gather evidence to mount a case speculating as such). We've just reached that point, and there hasn't been any form of announcement from CBS about returning players, not even any vague clues posted on the show's social media. I know we've been told to "expect the unexpected," but wouldn't Big Brother want to hype up some returning veterans only a handful of days before its premiere?
Related: Frankie Grande Reveals Whether He’d Ever Return to ‘Big Brother’ (Exclusive)
Courtesy of CBS
Sure, has information about returning players come out around this time in the past? Absolutely. But for evidence to the contrary, we can look no further than the only returnee we've had in the past five years: Rachel Reilly. Last year, CBS did not reveal there would be a returning player until the premiere itself, simply teasing a seventeenth "mystery houseguest" along with some enigmatic clues. And even that information wasn't revealed until the cast of newbies was announced, which only happened two days before the Season 27 premiere. Given the fact that neither the house theme nor the houseguests are known yet, we have recent precedent to show that returning players could still be announced.
Reilly's presence in the house last year also showcases that Big Brother 28 can certainly feature some returnees, rather than all. Out of the 28 seasons so far (27 on TV and the online-only Over the Top), six of them had newbies playing with at least one veteran. Even if recent seasons have shied away from returning players, there's still plenty of examples in years past where producers have filled the house with one, four, or even six of them at a time. And, as odd as bringing Reilly back by herself may have seemed on paper, it was absolute knockout casting, showcasing how bringing in "reality royalty" can help stir up the gameplay and the drama among a new crop of characters.
It should also be mentioned that while only one alum actually played Big Brother last summer, there were many who appeared on the show proper. Over the course of the season, we got cameos from Tyler, Kaycee Clark, Angela Murray, Frankie Grande, Eric Stein and Jessie Godderz. 2025 also saw the debut of Big Brother: Unlocked, a companion series hosted by winners Taylor Hale and Derrick Levasseur that also featured appearances from Chelsie Baham, Jag Bains, Britney Haynes and Nicole Franzel. Though this may have simply been CBS pulling out all the stops in honor of the show's 25th anniversary, it could also be an indicator that the network is eager to dive back into the pool of previous players. Heck, technically speaking, there was a Big Brother all-star season after 2020, in the form of the holiday spinoff Reindeer Games!
Related: ‘Big Brother’ Winner and ‘Bachelorette’ Alum Reveal They’re Dating
For our final piece of evidence, we have to turn to the vague online activity that always factors into the preseason speculation. As many fans have pointed out, the first press release for Big Brother 28 made no mention of a group of "all-new houseguests" moving in, with the omission of the phrase perhaps indicating they may not be entirely fresh faces. When asked last year by Entertainment Weekly if future seasons would mix veterans and newbies more, executive producer Alison Grodner replied, "You never know. I mean, it worked out nicely, but we don't necessarily like to repeat ourselves all the time either. I think it was nice that there was a break and that we had complete newbie casts playing. And so it just depends."
There's also the fact that there's been a rather coincidental amount of suspicious activity from a number of previous houseguests. Over the past couple of weeks, we've seen alums turn off their Cameos and go private on social media. Sure, legends like Danielle Reyes and Janelle have explained they've done so simply for work, not because of any possible return to the house. But wouldn't that be something a returnee would be saying as an excuse?! Could Ainsley be seeking her revenge and creating those deepfake posts and videos? Where are the pictures from these supposed trips to Greece?! If Dan's Funeral taught us anything, it's not to count any possibility out!
Related: 'Big Brother 28' Announces Premiere Date, Brings Back 'Unlocked' for Biggest Season Ever
The Monkees' Last Surviving Member Returns With Surprise New Single
Micky Dolenz, the last surviving member of the beloved pop-rock band the Monkees, just surprised his fans with a very special new release. Dolenz announced on social media that he would be coming out with a cover of Paul Westerberg's song "Terri" as the lead single on an upcoming vinyl EP.
He shared a clip of himself performing the track on Instagram, writing in the caption, "Micky Dolenz Paul Westerberg 'Terri' Tomorrow!"
View this post on InstagramIt's safe to say that fans of Dolenz were hyped up about the new song, with one commenting, "New music!!!!! Ahhhhhhhh yippee."
Other excited responses included, "Mickey AND Paul?!!?!," "Get it Micky!" and "What a great song." A few more fans wrote about how they would be seeing Dolenz in concert soon.
While the song will drop on streaming platforms this week, fans can get a physical copy of "Terri" in the form of a limited-edition ruby red vinyl release. The upcoming EP is called Timeless, and along with "Terri," the track list includes "Any Way You Want Me To," "Something Happened," "Waiting For Day," "Where Do The Tears Come From," and "In The Center Of My Heart (There Is A Force Commonly Known As Love)."
Friday Music describes the release as "a treasure trove of modern rock and pop songs that truly represents the good vibes and craftsmanship that his fans have come to know and love for his many years in the music business."
Along with Westerberg of the Replacements, the album also includes collaborations with Andy Partridge of XTC, Shelby Lynne, Vicki Peterson of the Bangles, Adam Schlesinger of Fountains of Wayne, and Jonny Polonsky. The EP is currently open for pre-order, with the listed release date as Sept. 4, 2026.
Dolenz was one of the two lead vocalists and the drummer of the hit band the Monkees, which was founded in the mid-1960s. The rest of the lineup included Davy Jones, Michael Nesmith, and Peter Tork, although they have all died in the past 15 years.
Related: ’80s Rock Band Reunites After 40 Years for First Tour Since Breakup
Mila Kunis Shares the Ultimate Romantic Advantage in Her Marriage to Ashton Kutcher
When Mila Kunis, 42, says that she's known her husband, Ashton Kutcher, 48, for most of her life, she's not exaggerating. The two first met on the set of That '70s Show when she was just 14 years old. In a 2017 appearance on The Howard Stern Show, Kutcher even admitted that their first kiss on the show was anything but romantic.
"It was really weird," he said. "I was like, 'Isn't this illegal?' It was really awkward. She was 14! She was like my little sister."
Living Out Their On-Screen Rom-ComsThe two have both described their relationship as sibling-like while they were on the show, and it was only years later that things became romantic. However, when they reconnected in 2012, Kutcher had just recently separated from Demi Moore after six years of marriage, and Kunis was still getting used to being on her own after an 8-year relationship with Macauley Culkin.
“It was funny because I’d just done this movie called No Strings Attached and she just did a movie called Friends with Benefits and we legitimately lived out our movies, which was virtually the same movie,” he said.
In an extended interview on The Drew Barrymore Show, Kunis explained that the fact that they'd known each other through all their different life stages has given them a major advantage.
The Ultimate Advantage: No Baggage, No Secrets"He knew me through all of them. And I knew him through all of it," she said. "Through like, the good, the bad, the ugly, you know, and vice versa. So when we reconnected, there was no getting to know each other."
While there was still much to "discover" about each other, many of the small details about your family, past relationships, and experiences were already known to each other.
"There was no, 'But let me tell you all these hidden secrets, let me tell you all about my baggage,' we all knew," the Black Swan star continued.
"Our fundamentals, our foundation, everything is built on respect because we've known each other since I was 14 and he was 19," she added.
Kunis and Kutcher’s journey proves that the best love stories often take a lifetime to write. By growing up together long before coming together, they bypassed the usual relationship guessing games. Having already seen each other’s good, bad, and ugly, they turned a friendship into a real-life romance built on a rare foundation of total transparency, deep mutual respect, and decades of history.
Mitchel Musso Reveals the Reason He Refused to Join Miley Cyrus for the 'Hannah Montana' Reunion
Mitchel Musso is speaking out about why he declined an offer to join MileyCyrus for the Hannah Montana 20th Anniversary Special.
The actor claimed the special “wasn’t the right thing” in his debut podcast interview on The Joe Vulpis Podcast, which was published June 24.
Musso portrayed Oliver Oken on the 2006 Disney Channel sitcom. He shared his disappointment with how the beloved series celebrated its 20-year anniversary.
“Do an episode. Do the show. The set’s still there,” Musso said.
The Disney+ special took place on a replica of the original set. It was hosted by Alex Cooper and featured interviews between MileyCyrus and special guests, like her co-star and dad, Billy Ray Cyrus.
“The kid in me was banking on it, like ‘I can’t wait for us to all be on set again,'” he shared. “And it just didn’t work out that way.”
Musso was also disappointed in the way they reached out to him about the special. When asked if he was offered a part in it, he said, “Of course they asked me. But, like I said, it wasn’t presented correctly. … It’s too long of a wait to do it in a way that isn’t even close to, in my opinion, correct.”
The actor left Hollywood 10 years ago but would’ve gladly reprised her role as Oliver.
“They just did it differently, and it is what it is,” Musso said. “It wasn’t the right thing. And I was busy doing something that was more important. But it would have been way more important if it would have just been an episode, or a movie. Of course that would have been more important. That would have been everything. I would have dropped everything — eat, breathe, sleep it.”
His on-screen girlfriend, EmilyOsment, who played Lilly Truscott, was also absent from the telecast and the premiere event. She did share a video on Instagram celebrating the Hannah Montana anniversary, and said she couldn't attend due to scheduling conflicts.
Several of the Hannah Montana supporting cast members attend the premiere, such as JasonEarles (Jackson Stewart) and MoisésArias (Rico Suave).
Who Won ‘Jeopardy’ Today? (June 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.
Adam Remsen won his 10th consecutive game, earning $36,001 and pushing his 10-day running total to $228,806
Who are the Jeopardy contestants today?Derek LombardiDerek Lombardi is an urban planner from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Kate RavenKate Raven is an incoming law student from Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Adam RemsenAdam Remsen is an attorney and theater producer from Memphis, Tennessee.
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 "PARTNERSHIPS"
The clue: "After measuring the transit of Venus in 1761, this pair of astronomers was recommended by the Royal Society for a job in America."
The answer: "Who are (Charles) Mason & (Jeremiah) Dixon?"
Remsen’s score at the end of DJ was $20,800, in the lead against Lombardi and Raven’s $18,000 and $13,600, respectively.
In FJ, he was the only one to answer correctly, securing his 10th consecutive win, and with a wager of $15,201, he ended the game with a whopping $36,001.
Raven wagered everything, ending the game with $0, while Lombardi wagered $7,500, dropping down to a second-place total of $10,500.
Remsen will be back on Friday for attempt number 11.
Did you get the answer? Sound off in the comments!
When is Jeopardy on next?Jeopardy! will come back on Friday, June 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
Country Star Reveals She Almost Quit ‘Dancing with the Stars’ Over ‘Rude’ Behavior: ‘That Show Wrecked Me’
When Jana Kramer competed on Season 23 of Dancing with the Stars back in 2016, viewers only saw what played out on television, but little did they know that behind the scenes, the country star and actress was struggling to keep on in the competition.
Although the “I Got the Boy” singer ultimately made it into the finals, where she placed fourth with dance partner and professional Gleb Savchenko, she says she considered quitting the competition altogether before the grand finalé revealing “that show wrecked me.”
"I struggled with the Russian..." Kramer admitted about her dance partner during a recent candid conversation on her Whine Down podcast, which included guest and BachelorNation’s Hannah Brown, who also competed on DTWS during Season 28 and won the coveted Mirror Ball trophy alongside dance pro Alan Bersten.
Kramer’s words insinuated that Savchenko’s tough approach to teaching dance steps and routines as a veteran of the show, who lived to perform and compete on the program, was, at times, too much for her to handle.
"I was like, 'Do not speak to me that way.' Period," Kramer said, reflecting on a moment she remembered during her run on DWTS. "They didn't show this on the show, but I was like, 'I'm done, I quit... he's being rude, and I'm not having it.'
She added, "At that point, you know, you could push me so far. I'm like, 'We're done here.'"
Although she struggled with Savchenko’s training methods and instruction, Kramer added that she knew her seasoned pro wasn’t “trying to be mean,” but rather was motivated “to win.”
And while Brown agreed with Kramer’s feelings, she pointed out that their pro-dancer partners — Savchenko and Bersten — grew up with the discipline of dancers who made the sport a lifestyle.
"You have to realize that's how they were talked to," Brown explained. "That's how they were coached, and so that's all they know. And it's really hard when you're not used to that, and you're not a professional dancer, and this is not your career ...It definitely caused a lot of conflicts, and I feel like I had so many tantrums. But it was a tantrum from feeling so hurt and not respected in some moments, like, 'I'm really trying my best. I've never done this before.'"
"You're having to learn like two to sometimes three dances a week to perform it for millions of people, and they don't want to look bad, and they don't want you to look bad, and so a lot can come out right," Brown added.
Season 35 of Dancing with the Stars is scheduled to premiere in the fall of 2026.
Europe's Notorious 'Highway to Hel' Bus Is Back — and You Can Ride It This Summer
One of Europe's most famous bus routes is making an unlikely comeback.
After disappearing three years ago, Poland's infamous Route 666 to the seaside town of Hel has officially returned for the 2026 summer season — this time operated by FlixBus. Nicknamed the "Highway to Hel," the route has long attracted curious travelers thanks to the tongue-in-cheek combination of its route number and destination, even though the town's name has nothing to do with the biblical underworld.
The seasonal service officially returned at the end of May, with FlixBus announcing the revival on May 30, 2026.
The original Route 666 became an internet sensation for years, carrying passengers between towns on Poland's Baltic coast. That all changed in 2023, however, following years of complaints from some Christian groups. After all, Poland is a predominantly Roman Catholic nation, and the Church tends to hold a lot of weight.
Therefore, local operator PKS Gdynia renumbered the route from 666 to 669 because of its association with the biblical "number of the beast." But the decision disappointed many locals and visitors, who saw the route as an unexpected tourism draw.
View this post on Instagram The "Highway to Hel" is backNow, FlixBus has resurrected the legendary number, but with a twist. Rather than restoring the original local route, the company has created a brand-new long-distance service connecting Kraków with Hel, stopping in Warsaw and several popular destinations along the Hel Peninsula. The roughly 13-hour journey operates daily during the summer tourism season, offering travelers a direct route from southern Poland to one of the country's best beach destinations.
FlixBus executives have openly acknowledged that choosing Route 666 was intentional.
FlixBus spokesperson Aleksander Kalenik told the Polish news service TVN24, according to BBC: "The number 666 was deliberately chosen as a marketing communication element, intended to increase the visibility of the connection on the popular holiday route to Hel."
Michał Leman, Managing Director of FlixBus in Eastern Europe, also said at a press conference: "It's better when a route explains by itself where it's going. In this case, there's really nothing more to say. Everyone will understand."
View this post on Instagram Why Hel is worth visitingDespite its devilish nickname, Hel is anything but sinister. Located at the tip of Poland's 22-mile-long Hel Peninsula on the Baltic Sea, the coastal town is known for its sun-swathed sand beaches, cycling paths, seal sanctuary, and maritime history.
Linguists also point out that the town's name predates English and likely derives from ancient Germanic words referring to dunes or elevated coastal landscapes. For MANY travelers, however, the playful name is exactly what made the route famous.
Whether passengers book the journey for convenience or simply to say they rode "Route 666 to Hel," FlixBus appears to have tapped into one of travel's most enduring truths: oftentimes, it's about the journey, not the destination.
GTA 6 Faces Backlash Over Latest Pre-Order Announcement
After more than a decade of anticipation, Grand Theft Auto VI pre-orders officially went live on Thursday, June 25. But instead of celebrating, many players were left scratching their heads.
Shortly after pre-orders opened, confusion spread online as fans tried to figure out what exactly they were buying. Historically, when you pre-ordered a GTA game, you were reserving a physical copy of the game.
“Pre-orders make no sense in the digital world. It’s not like they will run out like they did with physical copies,” one user pointed out on Instagram.
“What's the point of pre ordering you can buy it after the release duh.. you can only play after its release or pre ordered people should have the advantage of getting to play a day earlier before its release that makes sense tbh,” said another.
A third theorized, “They want money to finish the other half of the game.”
However, others defended the option to pre-order.
“Cause I have money now and may not in 5 months 😂,” a fan quipped.
“It feels better when the day comes, feels like you never paid,” another shared.
As criticism mounted, Rockstar appeared to respond through its customer support team. According to a support email obtained by VICE, the company told customers that the current pre-order is "indeed just for a digital-only update" and that players "will be able to acquire a physical copy during the following months."
But that statement has only created more questions.
Rockstar didn't clarify whether that future "physical copy" means an actual disc-based version or simply another boxed edition containing a download code. It's also unclear whether the company plans to release it before or after the game's November 19 launch.
For now, players eager to jump into Grand Theft Auto VI can still secure their copy ahead of release—but keep an eye on Rockstar’s social media for more updates.
This No. 1 Ranked Carry-On is Just $84 Right Now for Prime Day
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When it comes to carry-on rankings lists, it's rare to see an under-$250 option featured. High-quality polycarbonate, smooth spinner wheels, refined leather accents and rigorous lab testing typically send retail prices skyrocketing into premium territory. But there is one iconic brand that consistently makes the cut across the entire industry, thanks to its ultra-lightweight durability combined with a surprisingly high-volume packing capacity.
It is none other than Samsonite's Freeform Hardside Expandable Carry-On.
Major travel authorities, including Travel + Leisure, Good Housekeeping and Forbes Vetted, all rank it as their absolute top-rated hardside value choice. Even better, it consistently holds the coveted number-one bestseller spot in the entire Carry-On Luggage category on Amazon. While its typical standard price point of $219.99 is already considered a fantastic bargain for heritage luggage, this Amazon Prime Day it has dropped by an unbelievable 66% to just $84. If there were ever a perfect moment to invest in a new forever carry-on without draining your flight fund, this is it.
Related: CALPAK Just Dropped the Ultimate Summer Travel Collection
Samsonite's Freeform Hardside Expandable Carry-On Shop it on Amazon!To break down the core specifications of this travel favorite, it weighs in at a mere 6.5 pounds out of the box, features exterior dimensions of 23 by 15 by 10 inches to meet domestic flight requirements, is crafted from 100% impact-resistant polypropylene, and comes backed by Samsonite's signature 10-year limited warranty.
As major airlines have increasingly started charging checked-bag fees upwards of $45 a flight, it's become incredibly popular to bring carry-ons all the way through the TSA checkpoint and stuff them into the overhead bins upon boarding. The downside to that strategy, however, is that it can present a whole host of exhausting physical challenges if your bags are heavy, overstuffed or if crowded planes make tossing them up and squeezing them into a tight space a nightmare. For travelers over 50, or anyone navigating mobility or physical challenges, wrestling a heavy bag down a narrow aisle can weigh down the start of a trip and even lead to a painful injury if you're hoisting it entirely on your own.
That is exactly why opting for the Samsonite's nimble 6.5-pound version is a smart move if you're looking for something ultra-lightweight that can still carry a significant amount of clothing. Because it's engineered from 100% impact-resistant polypropylene rather than traditional, heavy polycarbonate, this bag tends to run one to two full pounds lighter than most of its top-ranking luxury competitors. The highly flexible, impact-resistant shell is almost entirely scuff-proof, leaving long-term travel testers finding it completely scratch-free and gliding smoothly after six months of rigorous, back-to-back testing.
Related: 8 Amazon Prime Day Finds That Will Save Your Next Theme Park Trip From 100-Degree Heat
It also matches up perfectly to the high-end features of its priciest peers, coming fully equipped with integrated, TSA-approved combination locks, 360-degree double spinner wheels for an incredibly quiet ride and ultra-durable zippers that won't bust under pressure. Even better, a quick pull of the middle zipper provides an additional 1.5 inches of internal room when expanded. It's the absolute perfect feature for taking home extra vacation souvenirs, heavy layers or local gifts without the lingering anxiety that you’ll be forced to pay a sudden fee at the gate check counter.
With over 18,000 global ratings on Amazon, this suitcase has cemented itself as an undisputed fan-favorite for independent travelers. To see how it holds up in the real world, you can read firsthand reviews from verified buyers on the official Amazon product page. For instance, verified buyer "Jill S." notes that it "fit nicely in overhead compartments" and is "lightweight but still spacious." Another regular traveler, "Andrew," values how seamlessly it navigates tight transits, sharing that it "rolls nicely on all wheels... Weight isn't bad either and feels durable." Meanwhile, buyer "Jen True" raves about its sheer resilience after surviving multiple trips, liking it so much she bought a second one: "I can fit enough to survive a week, if living very simply. Both have been on multiple trips and still look new."
Just keep in mind that with an event as massive as Amazon Prime Day—which officially wraps up tomorrow night, Friday, June 26th—the algorithms are working in overdrive. Because Amazon relies heavily on dynamic pricing, the exact deal you see can fluctuate based on your personal browsing habits, ordering history, and even which third-party seller currently holds the "Buy Box" for your account.
In fact, while I managed to snag this exact suitcase in Navy this morning, the stock has been moving so fast that Black seems to be the only remaining color sitting at that rock-bottom $84 threshold. If you’re seeing a higher price tag on your screen, try opening a fresh incognito browser window or logging out of your account before adding it to your cart. Testing the waters anonymously is a proven trick to bypass the "loyalty tax" and trigger a fresh visitor rate, helping you hunt down the absolute best version of the deal before the clock runs out tomorrow.
At this absolute rock-bottom price point, it easily deserves a permanent spot in your luggage rotation, even if it's just to experience how effortless traveling light can truly feel.
1990 Oscar-Nominated Film Was Just Named the 'Most Universally Loved Movie Ever' Made
Many filmmakers can attest that a movie receiving overwhelming praise from both critics and audiences is nearly impossible. However, the publication Collider recently highlighted some films that managed to do just that by releasing a ranking of the "7 most universally loved movies ever."
The ranking, published in May 2026, featured hit films like Back to the Future from 1985, 1979's Alien, and the 1994 animated movie The Lion King. The publication named the 1990 Oscar-nominated film Goodfellas as the most beloved movie of all time. Collider pointed to Martin Scorsese's expert directing and the leads, Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci, and Ray Liotta's memorable performances as to why the film has remained so impactful.
Goodfellas has a score of 93 percent on Rotten Tomatoes and 92 on Metacritic.
Martin Scorsese Shared His Inspiration Behind Making 'Goodfellas'In an interview with the American Film Institute, Scorsese shared that the film, adapted from Nicholas Pileggi's nonfiction book, Wiseguy: Life in a Mafia Family, was inspired by "gangster films" from the 1930s and 1940s, specifically Scarface (1932) and Public Enemy (1931). Scorsese said that he appreciated how Tony "Scarface" Camonte, played by Paul Muni, was charismatic in the 1932 film. He explained that he was familiar with individuals with similar backgrounds during his childhood in New York City. He stated that he wanted the characters in Goodfellas to also have that charm and likability, despite their inexcusable actions.
"In Scarface, you have an interesting situation where these characters, who are really despicable, are presented in such a way that you like them. And that was the key," said the director during the interview.
In addition, Scorsese said that Goodfellas is a warning against "the danger of the exuberance [and] the danger of the excitement," which is something he witnessed firsthand.
"When you're young, you think you're going to live forever, and you think you're tough and you could take a few more shots in the head than somebody else could. And so, you think you're tougher than the other person," said Scorsese. "Well, eventually, if you don't use your brain, you know, you're not going to wind up anywhere. That's what happens with the Joe Pesci character. And I think the danger of the excitement of that lifestyle is what I grew up around. And I saw a lot of people disappear because of that."
1973 Rock Hit Inspired by a Popular Cocktail Became a Classic Without Ever Reaching No. 1
In 1973, the legendary rock band the Eagles released their second studio album, Desperado. While the album wasn't originally a success for the band, it featured a few of the group's most underrated tracks, including the folk-rock anthem "Tequila Sunrise."
The song was one of two singles on the album, the other being "Outlaw Man." Written by members Don Henley and Glenn Frey, it was one of their first songwriting collaborations. The title was inspired by the popular cocktail, tequila sunrise, and it perfectly fits the vibe of the track.
In the liner notes of the 2003 compilation album, The Very Best Of, the Eagles revealed some more of the backstory of "Tequila Sunrise." Henley wrote, "I believe that was a Glenn title. I think he was ambivalent about it because he thought that it was a bit too obvious or too much of a cliché because of the drink that was so popular then."
"I said, 'No – look at it from a different point of view. You've been drinking straight tequila all night and the sun is coming up!' It turned out to be a really great song," he went on.
Glenn might not have thought it at the time, but he came up with the most suitable title for the song, with the first lyrics reading, "It's another tequila sunrise/ Starin' slowly 'cross the sky/ I said goodbye."
Related: 1984 Power Ballad, Credited With a Baby Boom in One Country, Became a Rock Classic
Although it was the lead single on Desperado, "Tequila Sunrise" didn't do so great on the charts. It peaked at No. 64 on the Billboard Hot 100, while its highest chart position was 26 on the US Adult Contemporary Billboard chart. The album's other single, "Outlaw Man," did a little better, peaking at No. 59 on the Hot 100 chart.
Despite this early lack of success, the album and its singles earned appreciation from fans later on, as subsequent Eagles albums became major hits. Decades after "Tequila Sunrise" was first released, it remains a timeless classic and one of the Eagles' most beloved tracks.
Related: ’70s Rock Guitarist Announces First Regional Tour in 20 Years
Brad Pitt Reportedly Has 'No Plans' to Marry Girlfriend Ines de Ramon Despite Close Family Bond
Brad Pittand his girlfriend,Ines de Ramon, have been going strong for several years since making their relationship public in 2022. An insider exclusive reveals where the Fight Clubactor stands on possible marriage plans.
According to a report by Page Six, de Ramon has become "incredibly close" with Pitt's family over the course of their relationship. The source claims she was "welcomed with open arms from the beginning" and is adored by his family members. Whether Pitt is ready to get down on one knee and head down the aisle is another story.
“But Brad has no plans on getting married despite how close Ines has become with everyone," said the insider.
The insider adds that de Ramon and the actor's family regularly keep in touch and "genuinely enjoy spending time with her." They also add that the jewelry designer had never felt like "Brad's girlfriend," but more like a member of the family. De Ramon's bond also extends outside her and the actor's relationship, with her often texting and keeping in touch with others.
“She’s built real relationships with everyone. She spends time with Brad’s brother and sister, nieces and nephews, attends family gatherings, and has made an effort to get to know each of them individually," they said.
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It appears that Pitt's family has come to naturally gravitate toward de Ramon and "include her in family plans and genuinely want her around." Neither de Ramon nor Pitt has commented on where they stand on marriage.
The F1 actor finalized his long-running divorce from Angelina Jolie in December 2024, after almost eight years of legal proceedings. Jolie had initially dissolved the marriage in September 2016. De Ramon was previously linked to Vampire Diaries star Paul Wesley and got married in 2019. They ended their marriage three years later in September 2022.
A few months later, de Ramone and Pitt were spotted together in Los Angeles, with reports claiming they had been seeing each other for several months. They continued to date quietly with their attendance at the 2024 Grand Prix, marking their highest-profile appearance.
