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Angelina Keeley Warned Christian 'America's Gonna Hate You' After Blindsiding Mike White on 'Survivor 50' (Exclusive)

Thu, 03/26/2026 - 10:33am

Survivor 50 is here! Every week, Parade's Mike Bloom will bring you interviews with the castaway most recently voted off the island.

Angelina Keeley was a completely different person entering Survivor 50 than she was exiting David vs. Goliath. In the years since her star-making, jacket-begging, rice-negotiating turn, she had become a mother of two kids and two businesses. And so she was eager to enter her second season as a "self-aware queen," ready to showcase a depth that players and fans had not seen previously, in the hopes of climbing to new heights only a 50-foot ladder could ascertain.

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During the first five days, Angelina was the most purple player on the purple tribe, as we usually saw her relegated to walking down the island runway in a fashion show or crafting a one-liner about Amazon during a challenge. That's unfortunately because her position on the tribe was very much out of the action. With a majority alliance of five that eventually turned to six, she found herself in the hot seat (a temperature that would not cool down the rest of her time). Luckily, while she stayed on Vatu at the swap, her position very much changed. The David vs. Goliath representatives experienced their own "mini-merge," as Angelina reunited with Christian Hubicki and her close friend, Mike White.

Angelina unfortunately found herself in a familiar position soon after: On a post-swap "disaster tribe." Fortunately, she once again had Mike by her side, who was happy to dust off "Operation: Save Angelina" for the second season. After getting her revenge on her old tribe in booting Q Burdette, it seemed like the David vs. Goliath trio would hold strong to maintain control. But there was one surprisingly weak point of that triangle, as Christian was leery of how good Mike was as a player. And so he chose to write the Emmy winner off the show, flipping on familiar faces in lieu of new ones.

While Angelina was left stunned, she was still ready to run with whoever would take her. Surprisingly, as Vatu faced yet another vote, she believed she was actually the swing, in the middle between two duos. Angelina said during one of the few Tribal Councils she attended, "I always let my instincts be the last word." Unfortunately, her instincts had those words be her last, as both pairs came together to get her out. But, truly showcasing her changed behavior, she interrupted Jeff Probst's proceedings to reach into her bag. But it wasn't for an idol, but a simple token of literal warmth, a representation of her full-circle journey in Survivor: A jacket.

Now out of the game, Angelina talks with Parade about when she decided to give away her jacket, why she feels Christian getting rid of Mike was "selfish" (and how he allegedly pregamed against her), and an unseen negotiation she made with Jeff.

Related: Read our Survivor 50 pre-game interview with Angelina Keeley

Let's start with the close — or should I say "clothes." Were you always going to give away your jacket if you were voted out? Or was that a decision you made in the moment?
I have to be so honest with you. This whole jacket bit, I had fun with it, right? I had fun with just leaning into all of the jokes. It's hilarious. But I have to say something for the record, to be clear, because I know Q was saying some stuff a couple weeks ago. Nothing I did was for show. Nothing I did was for screen time or for the camera. And I mean, clearly, I wasn't doing anything for screen time because I didn't get any screen time! Which is fine, I don't care.

So the jacket thing, giving it to them, I had two scenarios in my head. Because here's the thing: You have to prepare for every situation. You have to mentally prepare for, "Okay, if I make it to fire, if I make it to the Final Three, if I get voted out, what am I going to do, right?How would I feel?" And that's just part of anticipating the game. So with me, once I finally locked in my jacket after negotiating with wardrobe for like 40 different jackets — it was down to the wire, okay? It was crazy.

But I loved that jacket, and I knew I was going to go out one of two ways. I was going to either go out classy or I was going to go out guns a-blazing. I'm glad I chose option one. I'm glad I went out the right way. I'm proud of how I went out. But in my mind, in my creative mind, I was like, "Okay, I could either give them the jacket, or I throw the jacket in the fire. Wait, that might be a hazard. That might be a no-no." I was never going to do that, to be clear. But in my brain, I was like, "Huh, maybe." So to answer your question, I I did have an idea in my head of what I would want to do if my fateful day came. And that's what we did.

You could have made your own Ozzy-esque angry bonfire! You had said that you felt caught between two different pairs going into this vote. And it seems like you sided with Christian and Emily in voting for Stephenie. What made you decide that?
[Shakes head.] That was weird. They're positioning it as like, "I'm the swing." I was like, "I don't think I'm the swing. I think they're all gonna come for me." I knew they were all gonna come for me. I mean, honestly, in retrospect, I should have played my Shot in the Dark. The reason I didn't is because Emily was so convincing.

Emily is completely not getting the kudos that she deserves. She is the mastermind on that beach. She is an elite player on that beach. She had me convinced that she was with me. It was her. It wasn't even Christian. Christian was doing something, I don't know. But Emily was an incredible player. And so she had me convinced that she was with me. She was crying with me in the forest. They didn't show it; she was like, "I want to play with you." And I really thought she was serious. I mean, she's good. Anyone in the CIA needs to call Emily, because that girl is good.

To be fair, given how she handles secrets, that may not be the job for her. [Laughs.]
[Laughs.] She's a liability. But maybe she was doing that strategically too, right? It's like she was trying to hedge with Ozzy. That girl, I think she knows what she's up to. So anyways, knew that there was a very slim chance that Emily and Christian would go for Stephenie with me.

But the reason I didn't play my Shot in the Dark is because I felt like, in my starting tribe, I had no one really. My swap tribe, I had Mike. Then we know what happened. And then I was like, "Do I have a higher chance with Emily being real with me, or a higher chance of my Shot in the Dark playing hitting?" And I had a slightly higher probability of Emily working with me, which obviously was not true. But I took that bet instead of the Shot in the Dark, because I was like, "Oh, if I play my Shot in the Dark, then I show her I don't trust her. And if we do merge, then who do I have? Just anyone new. I'm open for business!" Which I think could have done some work there, but we'll never know.

You bring up Mike, and I'd be remiss not to talk about him. We saw Ozzy's adverse reaction to his blindside, but we didn't get to see what you thought, which was surprising given how close you are to Mike inside and outside the game. So how did you process everything in the hours after Tribal Council, especially considering it was at the hands of Christian?
I was absolutely devastated. I shut down for a bit. I think you kind of see me in the background, literally just sitting there, just watching. And I am not one to shut down. I compartmentalize. I just was like, "I need a minute." Even Christian was trying to talk to me that night, and he was actually trying to talk to me too much. And I said, "You know what? I need a minute." He wasn't listening. He was still trying to talk to me. And I told him, "I think America's gonna hate you. They're gonna really hate that you took Mike out. This is so wrong. What were you thinking?"

And he tried to justify it. I heard him out the next day. He tried to justify it as, "The three of us couldn't exist in the game," that it was too much of a target, that he and I both had close relationships with Mike, but he and I were less linked. And so he tried to talk himself out of it, and I was like, "Oh, maybe." But, again, it was Emily who really pulled me in. But I was so sad. I mean, not just that night, but the next day. I mean, I was crying.

The backstory that we didn't see is that when we hit that beach the first day, when I was with Mike, we had a heart-to-heart. And I had a realization that he mattered more to me than the game, and I meant it. I said, "I will never betray you in this game." I mean, he made my oldest daughter laugh for the first time when she was two months old. That's the kind of stuff that we're bringing into the game. Real memories, real relationships, real people, and that's something that you just can't estimate at home. That's something that you can't feel.

And so did Christian betray me? No, no. Christian owed me no favors. If anything, I get it. I came for him a lot. Karma for sure. But Mike, that was a betrayal that was not okay. And he cut him so early. I just feel like it was a misstep. I feel like me and Mike would have helped him down the line. And we'll see how it all turns out. But I think he shot his shot too early. I think he took him out like an enemy, not like a friend.

I know Mike has talked a lot in his exit press about how he and Christian haven't spoken since his boot. And you've said on social media this past week that you and Christian weren't really friends going into the season, and Mike was more the go-between with you two. Where do things stand with you and Christian now?
I mean, look, I saw him at the premiere. I saw him and Emily, his wife. And I congratulated them on their baby and asked them how that was going. And that was it, just short and sweet and cordial. I wish him no ill. But I do stand by the fact that what he did to Mike was selfish.

Let's go back to that short but maybe not-so-sweet time on Vatu 1.0. You seemed surprised when Emily told you that you would have gone if you had gone to Tribal Council in the first five days. What was your sense of the dynamics on that first tribe?
Before the game even started, Colby and Stephenie were just out to get me right. They didn't want to play with me. I don't know who, but someone started a rumor that I was targeting old school, which was not true. I have a hunch that Christian started that. Actually, more than a hunch; someone told me that Christian started that again before the game even started. He was plotting these things.

I mean, to be honest — I haven't told anyone this. Christian was talking to himself in his room before the game started. I could hear him through the walls. I don't know if he could hear me. He was talking to himself, like I was actually kind of concerned for him. I was like, "What? Who's he talking to?" And then I realized he was just talking out loud. And the lore is that he had a list of people that he wanted out, and he was going to follow that list.

I think just so much of what he did was super premeditated. And to each their own. I think it matters a lot to him, and that is totally fair. It's a big game, it's a great game. But I think he lost himself a little bit out there. I think he lost the plot a little bit out there, and with time, maybe he'll see that. I think he's too far in it right now. But it's hard to because I just showed up so differently. And he and I both changed in different ways, and but it is interesting, because I got to play with him the first time. It felt like I was playing with a different person.

So what did things look like if Colby and Stephenie were so firmly against you from the start?
So the vibes, like Aubry was saying, were weird. We never quite gelled as a tribe. There were Colby and Stephenie in the middle, and they were pulling people into their orbit. They got Genevieve; they got people. I really, really loved Kyle, and I also really liked Aubry, and I feel closest to both of them. When Kyle left, I told Aubry, "You're my number one." She didn't say it back. [Laughs.] We're sitting at the camp the next day, and I'm like, "Aubry, I gotta talk to you. I told you you were my number one. You didn't say it back." And it's a very funny moment. She was kind of squirmish, and she was like, "I'm scared of commitment." And in the back of my mind, I'm like, "This is not good. This is not how it's supposed to go."

Look, I was surprised because they were trying to convince Aubry and me that it would be Genevieve or Rizz. Genevieve and Rizo were kind of putting on this facade by isolating themselves a lot, but it was all part of that five or six's plan. And I'm told that if we had gone to Tribal, it wouldn't have been me, but that's easy to say now. So you know what? It's neither here nor there. I will say, though, I have started a Vatu text, okay? And I am sending daily messages to Vatu of my dog and my daughter sleeping. And I just write, "Lazy!" And I just send lazy photos to Vatu every day so they have something to look forward to.

[Laughs.] I love that. I do wanna talk about something that I got to see out on set from the premiere, but others didn't. You actually tried to negotiate with Jeff after the first Immunity Challenge to trade in your newly won fishing gear for a tarp. Like the jacket, was that something you had thought about doing before the opportunity was presented to you?
Oh no, that was very in the moment. I'm so glad they didn't put it. That was not my best moment. When they didn't include it, I said, "Thank you. Let's keep on, keeping on." But, I mean, it was a fun little banter with me and Jeff. But that was more like my tribe was like, "Oh, what if we asked for X, Y and Z? The fishing is not good here. "And I was like, "Oh, I'll say something, whatever. Why not? We're back on 50." But no, I'm so glad they didn't show that. They can just delete that from their tapes.

I don't think you realized how close the merge was after that double Tribal Council. If you had survived the vote, was there anyone you were looking to work with in particular?
Oh my gosh. There were so many people I was excited to meet and to vibe with. And I was like, "I feel like those could be my people." Tiffany, Dee, Chrissy, Coach, Kamlla. I mean, come on! There were people that I was like, "Please, let us get together so that I can find my people." I never found my people out there. I mean me and Charlie are literally besties now. I call him my "boot bro." We get along so well. And I'm like, "Man, if we got into play together, who knows?" But it's so easy to do "coulda, woulda, shoulda" on Survivor. I don't lose sleep over it. But it's fun to think about.

Related: Mike White Reacts to Christian’s Shocking ‘Survivor 50’ Blindside: ‘He’s a Little Hammy’ (Exclusive)

This Popular Home Improvement Chain Is Expanding—Here's What to Know

Thu, 03/26/2026 - 10:30am

Despite a stagnant U.S. housing market, demand for budget-friendly home repairs is rising among cash-strapped homeowners and professional contractors alike. Amid this challenging economy, one retailer has reported an unexpected boost in business, prompting an expansion of its footprint in 2026.

After surpassing analysts' expectations for quarterly earnings in February, the Home Depot announced plans to open 12 new stores across eight states, with all locations expected to be completed by the end of the year. As the nation faces a growing need for new housing and the upkeep of aging homes, this expansion is projected to create thousands of jobs and boost local economies.

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Home Depot Expands With 12 New U.S. Stores Across 8 States

The Home Depot

The Home Depot is expanding across eight states with 12 new stores set to open by the end of 2026. Construction on all locations is scheduled to begin this year, with new stores planned in Texas, Florida, Arkansas, Tennessee, Oklahoma, Utah, Arizona and California.

While many retailers are closing brick-and-mortar locations, the Home Depot is growing its physical footprint to better serve the "modern builder" and the "inspired homeowner." By bringing inventory and expert support closer to some of the nation's fastest-growing regions, the company is making it easier for customers to complete projects from start to finish.

"We're excited about all of the progress we've made in our stores. And our efforts are paying off," said senior executive vice president Ann-Marie Campbell. "In 2025, our customer satisfaction scores increased every quarter, and our tenure with hourly associates is the highest it's been since 2017."

What Customers Can Expect From Home Depot's New Stores

The new stores, like the 146,000-square-foot location planned in Leander, Texas, will feature full tool-rental centers, larger garden centers, updated merchandising displays and flexible checkout areas. Each store will be designed to serve both homeowners and professional contractors better, while also bringing hundreds of new jobs to local communities. Other "enhancements" include specialty showrooms, expanded Buy Online Pick Up In Store storage, and pro-grade equipment for tool rentals.

"I cannot wait to open these doors," said Daniel Corbell, store manager #1348. "There is a special kind of energy when you're building a team from the ground up. Leander is growing fast, and we're here to make sure every home builder and homeowner have the tools they need to succeed."

Related: Dollar General's Vibrant $1 Find Is a Charming Upgrade for Easter Egg Hunting

Every City Getting a New Home Depot in 2026

The following 12 locations are scheduled to open by the end of 2026:

  • Leander, Texas
  • Dallas, Texas
  • Celina, Texas
  • Penitas, Texas
  • Naples, Fla.
  • Inverness, Fla.
  • Buckeye, Ariz.
  • Mission Valley, Calif.
  • Hot Springs, Ark.
  • Cookeville, Tenn.
  • Clinton, Utah
  • Broken Arrow, Okla.

Beyond putting these services where they're needed most, the new stores will also help connect online and in-store shopping, as more than half of Home Depot's online orders are already fulfilled through its physical locations. And while many brick-and-mortar retailers are struggling, this expansion signals that homeowners are increasingly taking on DIY projects and that small contractors now have even greater access to the supplies they need to complete every job.

Related: Aldi Is Selling a Durable $7 Gardening Tool That Makes Seasonal Yard Work Easy

Who Is New York Yankees Star Aaron Judge's Wife? Meet Samantha Bracksieck

Thu, 03/26/2026 - 10:30am

Years before he became the New York Yankees' biggest star, Aaron Judge hit it off with his high school classmate, Samantha Bracksieck. After a reported split, they finally tied the knot in 2021 and have kept their marriage as private as possible in the Big Apple. They welcomed their first child, a daughter, on Jan. 27, 2025.

But with the Yankees gearing up for their home opener as the MLB season kicks into gear, fans want to know more about Aaron Judge's wife.

It turns out the outfielder, 33, who slugged 53 home runs in 2025, the most in baseball, is as successful in love as he is on the field. So what do we know about the petite beauty, 32, who won Judge’s heart? Read on to find out more about Aaron Judge's wife.

Related: All About Derek Jeter's Girlfriends, From Mariah Carey and Minka Kelly to Wife Hannah Davis

Is Aaron Judge married?

Yes! Judge and his now-wife Samantha Bracksieck were high school sweethearts.

How did Aaron Judge and Samantha Bracksieck meet?

The future baseball outfielder and Samantha Bracksieck reportedly met as teens when they attended Linden High School in Linden, Calif. Judge graduated in 2010, and Bracksieck in 2012. They later went to the same college, both attending Fresno State University in California.

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What did Samantha Bracksieck study in college?

While Judge honed his baseball skills playing for the Fresno State Bulldogs, Samantha got her undergraduate and master’s degrees in kinesiology from Fresno State.

Samantha worked on a project in 2017 that examined elbow ligament injuries in Major League Baseball, according to People.

When did Aaron Judge and Samantha Bracksieck go public with their relationship?

In 2014, Judge posted photos of himself with Samantha on Instagram, wishing followers Happy Thanksgiving with a collage from a 5k race. Since then, the baseball star, fiercely private off the field, has only included Samantha in his Instagram a few other times—and that was after they married. He showed his wife with his family during the MLB All-Star Break in July 2022 and in photos from his December 2022 contract extension with the Yankees. On New Year's Eve in 2024, he shared a photo of him and Samantha holding their dogs.

Did Judge and Samantha break up?

Yes. Us Weekly reported that Aaron Judge and Samantha Bracksieck drifted apart, but they reunited around 2019.

When did Aaron Judge propose?

Judge, who is notoriously private about his personal life, never announced his engagement, so it's not known exactly when he proposed. But in June 2021, Bracksieck was spotted sporting a diamond ring.

When did Aaron Judge and Samantha Bracksieck get married?

Aaron Judge and Samantha Bracksieck married on Dec. 13, 2021, in a destination wedding at Kapalua Bay resort in Maui, Hawaii. Judge looked dapper in a black tuxedo and Samantha stunned onlookers in a sleeveless white gown and long veil.

Guests included Judge's Yankees teammates Gary Sanchez, Luis Cessa and Gleyber Torres.

How many children do Aaron Judge and Samantha Bracksieck have?

Aaron Judge and Samantha Bracksieck share one child, a daughter named Nora Rose Judge, born on Jan. 27, 2025. Judge announced Nora's arrival on Instagram in February alongside an adorable photo of the baby girl's tiny feet.

"1/27/25 Nora Rose Judge 🌸 What an incredible week it's been, can't wait for the memories the three of us make," the proud papa wrote in his caption.

Related: Who Is Dodgers Star Shohei Ohtani's Wife? Meet Mamiko Tanaka

How tall is Samantha Bracksieck?

At 5'2" tall, Samantha Bracksieck looks tiny next to Judge, who stands 6'7."

Do Aaron Judge and Samantha Bracksieck have dogs?

Judge and his wife have Dachshund dogs named Penny and Gus. Samantha held Penny in a group photo on Twitter posted by one of the other Yankee wives as they prepared to fly to Los Angeles to support their men in the World Series.

The wives and girlfriends (and dogs!) of Yankees players are heading out to support the team during the World Series ⚾️

(via amyc23/IG) pic.twitter.com/7e4hSU0goo

— MLB (@MLB) October 23, 2024 What does Samantha Bracksieck do for a living?

The baseball wife is now involved in charity work through Judge’s foundation ALL RISE, which offers baseball camps and leadership activities for children.

They enjoy helping others. In 2019, before they married, Judge and Samantha cheered up young cancer patients at Valley Children's Hospital in Madera County, Calif.

How has Judge praised his longtime love?

The baseball star relies on Samantha’s support, as he told the New York Post in 2022, "My wife has been with me through it all and she's calm as a cucumber, that's for sure."

Aaron Judge and wife Samantha Bracksieck at an awards dinner in New York City, January 2023

Mary DeCicco/MLB Photos via Getty Images

How did Aaron Judge’s wife help his career?

Judge told the Casa de KIub podcast in July 2024 that Bracksieck was invaluable when he was negotiating a contract extension with the Yankees. She told him to directly call team owner Hal Steinbrenner. It was good advice, as Judge’s outreach worked! In December 2022, Judge signed a nine-year Yankees deal worth an incredible $360 million.

In a press conference, Judge said, "[My wife and I] came to the decision that was in our hearts, which is we belong in New York, we belong in this city."

Do Aaron Judge and Samantha Bracksieck enjoy other sports?

The Judges aren’t just into baseball. They’ve been spotted watching NBA games and attended U.S. Open tennis matches in 2022 and 2023. The two were also photographed cheering on the New York Rangers hockey team.

View this post on Instagram Is Samantha Bracksieck as athletic as her husband?

Samantha Bracksieck may not be quite as athletic as her superstar husband, but she ran in the New York City Marathon in 2022 and 2023. Both times, Judge waited at the finish line to give his wife a big hug!

Samantha Bracksieck crosses the finish line at the NY Marathon in 2023.

Elsa/Getty Images

What happened with Samantha Bracksieck's DUI?

Samantha Bracksieck got some bad press before she married Judge. The New York Post reported that Samantha, who was Judge’s girlfriend at the time, had been arrested on “extreme DUI” charges in Arizona in February 2020.

Police allegedly caught Samantha driving a car more than 10 mph above the speed limit in Scottsdale without her headlights on. Cops claimed in their report that Samantha was slurring her words and had bloodshot eyes, according to The Post.

TMZ reported that Bracksieck admitted on video to having consumed wine at a restaurant before driving. According to TMZ, Bracksieck later cut a deal with prosecutors to plead guilty to a misdemeanor DUI.

TMZ reported that court documents showed Bracksieck was sentenced to 10 days in jail, but nine were suspended and she was given credit for one day for time served.

Related: 10 WAGs More Famous Than Their Athlete Partners

Pillsbury Fans Say Its New Cookies Look ‘Insanely Good’

Thu, 03/26/2026 - 10:19am

Pillsbury is bringing together two of its most popular treats to create one that fans say sounds nothing less than "yummy."

The 150-year-old bakery brand is home to dozens of product lines and over 15,000 recipes, ranging from savory breakfast dishes to sweet treats that can be enjoyed any time of day, per its website. Of all its creations, two sublines have, arguably, left the strongest impression on fans, and now they're getting their own crossover.

This week, eagle-eyed shoppers spotted new Pillsbury Mini Soft Strawberry Toaster Strudel Cookies in stores—an apparent combination of Pillsbury's famous cookies and its beloved Toaster Strudel breakfast pastries.

New Pillsbury Mini Soft Baked Strawberry Toaster Strudel Cookies Spotted in Stores

Pillsbury Mini Soft Baked Strawberry Toaster Strudel Cookies "capture the iconic taste of Pillsbury's beloved Toaster Strudel and bake it into a delicious, bite-sized cookie," according to an official retailer's description.

Related: New Pillsbury Freezer Find Has Fans ‘Super Excited’

The new treat joins Pillsbury's growing line of ready-to-enjoy snack products and its already expansive miniature soft-baked cookie flavors, which are currently available in Chocolate Chip, Cinnamon Toast Crunch, Double Chocolate, Funfetti and Lucky Charms flavors.

This recipe features bite-sized, soft-baked sugar cookies with strawberry-flavored chips and a sweet icing drizzle. And the best part just might be that these are ready to enjoy as is, no toaster or oven necessary.

View this post on Instagram

Pillsbury actually recommends adding them to ice cream to give your dessert "a sweet and tasty addition." The company also notes that since each serving is individually wrapped, they're a great option for packed lunches, handing out at school, or stuffing into goodie bags.

"They look INSANELY good!" one shopper wrote in an Instagram post shared earlier this week.

"Whoa I need to try these😍," a second shared.

"Ok yum!" someone else declared before a fourth agreed, "😮😮😮 Yummy! 😋."

One more joked, "Thank you, Gretchen Wieners' dad 👏," referencing a famous quote from Lacey Chabert's character in the hit movie Mean Girls.

Where Are Pillsbury Mini Soft Strawberry Toaster Strudel Cookies Available?

So far, Pillsbury's Mini Soft Strawberry Toaster Strudel Cookies have been spotted at select Sam's Club locations in packages of 28 individually wrapped 1.5-ounce servings for about $12 (prices may vary). It's currently unclear whether the product is exclusive to the mega retailer, but it appears it may be (at least for now; it's always possible that Pillsbury expands the items to other retailers later this year).

That said, Pillsbury has several other new options launching at multiple retailers nationwide, like its new Blueberry Crumble Big Cookies and Strawberry and Cream Cinnamon Rolls (both of which are only here for the spring season). And we know neither of those is the same as this sweet, soft-baked-cookie-toaster-strudel mashup, so if you're so set on having to get your hands on a box but don't live near a Sam's Club, you can always turn to the resellers (like this one on TikTok Shop), just be prepared to pay at least double the original price.

A spokesperson was not immediately available; we will update this post with any relevant information shared about the product.

Next: Pop-Tarts Is Getting Its First-Ever Line of Super Stuffed Pastries

Yankee Candle Releases New Limited-Edition Easter Scents With 'Nostalgic Twist'

Thu, 03/26/2026 - 10:08am

Yankee Candle is debuting a brand-new collection of scents for Easter 2026, promising to bring charm and a "nostalgic twist" to your living spaces this season.

The 1969-founded company just introduced a lineup of four limited-edition fragrances ahead of the spring holiday, each playful, pastel-colored, and perfect for gifting: Jelly Beans,Hoppy Easter, Strawberry Bunny Shortcake, and Easter Bouquet.

Strawberry Bunny Shortcake—a best-seller, according to the brand—is made of pink wax, featuring a bunny rabbit inside of an adorable egg shape on the label. A sweet and spicy blend rich with the scent of juicy berries, fluffy cake, and clouds of vanilla frosting, the fragrance includes top notes of spun sugar, sweet strawberry, lychee, black raspberry, and blood orange, with middle notes of passionfruit, fluffy cotton candy, pink pomegranate, and pink kiwi on a whipped vanilla malt and white honey base.

Related: Stanley's Brand-New Tropical-Inspired Collection of Tumblers Is Practical and Stylish

Jelly Beans, naturally, is inspired by the famous sweet confection popular around this season. The fragrance blends juicy grape, red raspberry jam, and sugar crystals for a perfect way to gently usher in spring celebrations. Its lavender-colored wax makes a whimsical hue, and the jar is complete with two designed Easter eggs on its label.

View this post on Instagram

Meanwhile, Hoppy Easter transports you straight to the tropics, reminiscent of a bright, sunshine-filled day with its yellow wax and fruity, tantalizing scent. The fragrance features top notes of fresh banana, coconut, and peach, with middle notes bringing in heliotrope, strawberry, and amber on a warm spun sugar and tonka bean base.

Easter Bouquet, an ideal pick for floral lovers, is green in color with notes of ozone, apple, melon, tulips, cyclamen, hyacinth, peony, and creamy musk.

The Easter 2026 scents are available now in the original large 22-ounce jars ($20.99) and 3-wick 14.5-ounce style ($26.99) in Yankee Candle stores and online at YankeeCandle.com.

On Instagram, shoppers raved over the springtime release.

"Soooo pretty!!" one exclaimed in the comments section of the brand's post, while another said, "🔥🔥🔥Awesome job."

"These smell so yummy! 🐇🎂🍬💐🍨," a third insisted, as someone else noticed, "these are sooo cute!"

Related: Cult-Favorite Beauty Brand's New Limited-Edition Release Offers 'a Taste of European Summer'

Amazon's Coziest Comforter Sets Will Make You Feel Like You're Sleeping In a Cloud

Thu, 03/26/2026 - 10:02am

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There’s nothing quite like slipping into freshly washed bedsheets after a long day, especially when you have a new comforter that feels like sleeping under a cloud. This simple bedroom upgrade can instantly refresh your entire space and, of course, improve your sleep. There’s also nothing worse than using a comforter made for winter once spring hits, leaving you tossing and turning all night from the heat.

With Amazon’s Big Spring Sale upon us, now is the perfect time to snag discounts on the home upgrades you’ve been eyeing, including some really great sales on comforter sets that can save you a ton of money. Whether you’re ready to go all in on a seven-piece set complete with additional shams, or just want an easy one with matching pillowcases, Amazon has plenty of amazing options. These customer loved finds make it easy to upgrade your sleep routine without breaking the bank — scroll down to check them out.

Bedsure Floral 3-Piece Reversible Queen Comforter Set, $30 (was $42) at Amazon

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This pick has over 20,000 ratings for a reason. At an unbeatable value of $30 for three pieces, shoppers adore the pretty floral print and the fact that the comforter is … drumroll please … fully reversible. That's right, while one side may be a certain color with white flowers, the other is the inverse. Just imagine how nice it feels to flip this over every now and then to freshen up the bedroom. As one shopper wrote, "If you ever feel like refreshing your room’s vibe without buying new bedding, simply flipping it over makes a noticeable difference." Consider us sold. 

Exclusivo Mezcla Lightweight Reversible Queen Comforter Set, From $25 (was $33) at Amazon

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When we see lightweight in the descriptor, we know this is a must-have for spring and summer — especially when the temperature can’t make up its mind. We're absolutely obsessed with the fact that this is reversible, making it so easy to switch up your bedding once your bedroom starts to feel a little bit too boring. Priced at under $30, think of this as two sets in one! We love this calming blue hue too. 

Bedsure Tufted Boho Comforter Set, From $48 (was $61) at Amazon

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How pretty is this? This shabby chic tufted boho comforter set can really switch up the vibe to a bedroom. The tufted embroidery makes it so unique, and according to shoppers it's extremely soft and cozy. "Soft, comfortable comforter set with a beautiful boho design that instantly upgrades the bedroom," one shopper wrote. "It has a nice weight—warm without feeling heavy. … The fabric feels high quality, holds up well after washing, and doesn’t wrinkle much." That's music to our ears. 

Bedsure Floral 7-Piece Queen Comforter Set, From $45 (was $73) at Amazon

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Sure, this may look a little like the style a few picks up, but don't be fooled: This one comes with a whopping seven pieces. That means you get a flat sheet, fitted sheet, comforter, two pillowcases and two pillow shams (also in that pretty floral) all for under $50. It's available in a bevy of nice light colors, but we're partial to this sage green. "The botanical pattern adds a calming and stylish touch that really brightens up the room," one shopper wrote. "The comforter is the perfect weight — fluffy and cozy without being too heavy. The sheets are smooth and breathable, and the pillowcases and shams complete the bed beautifully." What more could you want? 

CozyLux 7-Piece Seersucker Queen Comforter Set, From $37 (was $67) at Amazon

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Basic but with a twist, this seven-piece comforter set features unique rippling seersucker throughout, adding a nice level of texture to your space. The set comes with one fitted sheet, one flat sheet, a comforter of course, and four pillowcases — two standards and two shams. One shopper even said it "transformed my bed into a cozy paradise." Read more about it here

Bedelite Fleece Queen Comforter Set, $38 (was $54) at Amazon

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If you’re someone who keeps the A.C. or fan running all spring and summer, a fleece comforter might become your best friend. This set delivers that ultra soft, cozy feel without being too heavy, especially in a cooler room. It’s perfect for anyone who loves that bundled up feeling all year round. Read more about it here

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Whether you are looking for more of a boho chic vibe or want your bedroom to look like a wildflower garden, Amazon has plenty of comforter set options for the taking. But with the Big Spring Sale upon us, it's one of the best times of year to take advantage of these incredible deals — it ends March 31! 

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A ‘Project Hail Mary’ Sequel Could Be Possible — But Don’t Expect It Soon

Thu, 03/26/2026 - 10:02am

There’s no doubt that Project Hail Mary has put Amazon MGM back on the map when it comes to theatrical movies. Part of that is thanks to the excellent storytelling from the source material, and now as there are talks of a franchise within the movieverse, book fans want to know if there’s more to come from Andy Weir.

The Project Hail Mary author has previously spoken out against the idea of a sequel, but reading between the lines, there was some hope. Recently updates hint that a sequel could be on its way, but not any time soon!

Andy Weir Is Working on Another Project

Right now, Weir’s attention is on a completely different book. So far, this work-in-progress doesn’t have a title — at least, not one that he’s willing to share with anyone. Nor do we get to know what it’s about. All we can tell is that it’s likely sci-fi considering the other books like The Martian and Artemis remain in this genre.

We also have to acknowledge that Weir has never written a sequel to any of his books, and that’s something The Hollywood Reporter recently pointed out. That being said, Weir has admitted that he has bits and pieces of a story that could work as a sequel.

Something Weir told PEOPLE is that while he’s good at coming up with plots and making sure the science works out, that doesn’t make the book whole. He needs to make sure his characters have depth and nuance, and that’s the part that takes time, and it’s something that as a writer he feels he needs to work more on.

A ‘Project Hail Mary’ Book Sequel Won’t Be Happening Soon

Weir has made it clear that a Project Hail Mary sequel isn’t going to happen just because it’s a potential money maker due to the success of the movie. It needs to be good, and we can all respect that.

That being said, the end of Project Hail Mary novel opens up plenty of opportunities to continue a story. While the movie brought happiness and closure, which was needed for that method of storytelling, the novel is open-ended. We don’t know if Ryland Grace’s sacrifice was worth it, although we’re left to believe it probably was based on the way everyone kept saying if the project worked then it would save Earth.

So, the story is there in what happens to Earth after Grace’s sacrifice. There’s the story of Rocky, who had to realize first-hand the sacrifice that was being made, along with the fact that Earth now knows that aliens are definitely out there. Can the way everyone came together to save Earth help to change humanity for the better?

The best thing about talks about a movie sequel is that there needs to be a book sequel first. Weir is in completely control, just as it should be. That second Project Hail Mary book could happen, but don’t expect it any time soon. 

Ray Romano Welcomes First Grandchild

Thu, 03/26/2026 - 10:01am

Everybody Loves Raymond star Ray Romanojust became a grandpa! The actor’s daughter, Ally Romano, recently took to Instagram to post a precious one-month photo of her newborn, Rex Roman Wilezol

That’s right! Ally gave birth one month ago. And like other celebs (or children of celebs), she chose to keep the birth private for the first few weeks. As any first-time mama knows, that’s totally understandable. 

The new mommy shared a sweet snapshot of her cute kiddo along with a few key stats. In the post, baby Rex is lounging on a blanket, dressed in a dapper pair of blue-striped pants. Off to the side is an adorable outer-space “1 month” sign, featuring teeny-tiny footprints. 

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Romano (Ally, that is) also added a heartfelt caption, writing, “One month with my guy, Rex Roman Wilezol. He (begrudingly) arrived 2/25/26 with very long legs, massive hands, a full head of hair, and the most perfect lips.” 

She goes on to write about mommy-ing during the first month, “Although it wasn’t the start to parenthood we imagined, our strong, very big boy has shown us a new meaning to love. He’s given us a run for our money, but he’s my new bestie and a trooper!” 

While famous dad (not grandpa) Ray Romano hasn’t made a public statement about his brand-new grandchild, he did talk to Today’sCraig Melvin last month about life, his new Broadway musical, and family. The actor spoke about “saying yes” to new roles, including one IRL—being a grandpa. As it turns out, Ally was with her celeb dad, waiting backstage. Romano goes on to tell Melvin that they “have a little boy coming, and it's our first. And I hear it’s great. I hear it’s the best thing in the world because it’s like a parent, you get to play with them, and when they smell, you give them back.”

So what will little Rex call his grandpa? According to Romano, in the Today interview, “My father was Papa Al. So I think we’re going to try to go with Papa Ray. But sometimes it evolves into something else, you know?”

When asked which is more nerve-wracking, starring on Broadway or becoming a grandfather, Romano candidly says, “You know, different, apples and oranges, but both exciting and nervous at the same time.”

Of course, the well-wishes poured in on Instagram. Friends and family congratulated Ally and hubby Zachary Wilezol on their baby news, including a very special message from grandmaAnna, “He’s a toughie, who has the best loving parents. I love my beautiful grandson.” Aww!

‘Charlie’s Angels’ Star Jaclyn Smith, 80, Announces Intimate New Project

Thu, 03/26/2026 - 9:59am

An iconic actress from a beloved '70s television series has a new project in the works. Jaclyn Smith, who played Kelly Garrett on the show, just announced that she is writing a new memoir.

People revealed the details of Smith's book on March 26. The memoir is titled, I Once Knew aGuy Named Charlie and it will debut in September.

Related: Iconic 'Charlie's Angels' Star, 79, Embarks on Bold Romantic Adventure With Husband

Smith told People that she wanted this book to be about more than Charlie's Angels, although she tells plenty of stories about that experience.

However, Smith had "another goal in writing this book." She explained she wanted to "finally let others see the girl behind the image."

The book will tell the "life story of an accomplished woman who has inspired generations of Angels who have come after her." In addition, Smith's book will be "intimate, honest and down-to-earth," that covers highlights of her life from both before and after her iconic run on Charlie's Angels.

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Charlie's Angels premiered nearly 50 years ago, in September 1976. Smith was a cast member through the full five seasons of the series.

The show launched several cast members into stardom in addition to Smith. Farrah Fawcett and Kate Jackson were iconic Angels alongside Smith, and Cheryl Ladd joined Charlie's Angels upon Fawcett's departure.

Over the course of her acting career, Smith has had roles in over 60 projects. She continues to work, appearing in an episode of Doctor Odyssey in 2025, and several episodes of All American before that.

Smith created a career that spread far beyond television screens, though.

The press release for Smith's book, shared by People, notes, "While balancing acting and entrepreneurship, and bravely facing breast cancer, [Smith] also found love and raised two beloved children."

Her hope with the book was "to go beyond my shows and movies, and into a deeper place: my heart," Smith told the media outlet. She added, "The truth of life is never as simple as its public version."

2001 Dance Anthem With 'Invincible Beat' Ranked No. 1 'Best Party Song of All Time'

Thu, 03/26/2026 - 9:55am

It's the early 2000s. You're in the club with friends, enjoying a strobe-like rhythm of drinks and music. Then suddenly a certainly catchy, rapid beat hits and starts taking over your body. Hips, shoulders, feet, yeah, mostly feet. What is happening? This incredible beat! That's because you're grooving to "One More Time" by Daft Punk, which according to a Time Out ranking is the No. 1 "Best Party Song of All Time."

Released in 2001, "One More Time" was the lead single from Discovery, the second album from the French electronic group Daft Punk. The musical duo—Thomas Bangalter and Guy-Manuel de Homem-Christo—is best recognized behind the DJ booth in their robot 'fits, and they absolutely killed it with this release, which features the iconically autotuned voice of the late New Jersey house artist Romanthon.

And the song has some rhythmic and unforgettable lyrics you can dance to:

"One more time, we're gonna celebrate
Oh yeah, alright, don't stop the dancing
One more time, we're gonna celebrate
Oh yeah, alright, don't stop the dancing"

The song thumps, pulsates, and vibrates the house down like any good party song should. Anyone's who's fallen grateful victim to these beats can attest.

Related: Zendaya Calls This No.1 Chart-Topping 1995 Track the Best Wedding Dance Floor Song

The Time Out ranking praises the beloved house song, starting from "its first invincible beat" to the way the song's music creates an "invisible forcefield that basically anchors you to the dancefloor." 

"One More Time" topped the single sales charts of France, Canada, and Portugal, and the dance charts of the United States, UK, and Ireland. And even 25 years later, the song has staying power.

Take a listen to "One More Time" by Daft Punk and watch the anime-style music video:

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'Jeopardy!' Spinoff is Launching on YouTube — Here Are the First Contestants

Thu, 03/26/2026 - 9:53am

Like other TV franchises, Jeopardy! now has its sights set on YouTube in looking to the future.

Sony Pictures Television just announced that the long-running game show is heading to the digital platform later this month, starting with an episode hosted by Ken Jennings and the following contestants from the YouTube creator world:

  • The Traitors star Monét X Change
  • Performer Rebecca Black
  • Gamemaster Brennan Lee Mulligan

The episode will be exclusive to the Jeopardy! YouTube channel, where it will premiere March 31 at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT, Variety reports.

On Jeopardy! YouTube Edition, the contestants will compete for a charity of their choice, Variety also noted on Thursday, March 26:

  • Change, 36, will play for GLAAD
  • Black, 28 (remember "Friday"?), will play for The Trevor Project
  • Mulligan, 38 will also play for The Trevor Project

According to the studio, “they will compete across a dynamic range of clues that blend the classic format and style of Jeopardy! with the energy of internet culture with categories spanning YouTube-inspired topics—from viral trends to the rich 20+ year history of the platform—along with custom video clues featuring notable YouTube talent,” per Variety.

Jeopardy! is one of the most successful and enduring brands in television history, with decades of cultural relevance and a loyal audience,” Suzanne Prete, president of game shows for Sony Pictures Television, said in a statement, per The Hollywood Reporter. “As we bring our YouTube strategy to life, we’re incredibly excited to build on that legacy while connecting with new audiences in a way that feels fresh, interactive, and native to the platform.”

In other Jeopardy! news — host Jennings, 51, was featured on the show’s Instagram page earlier this month, where he was posed a question that he actually had a difficult time answering. The overall Jeopardy! champion paused before his thoughtful answer.

Jennings was asked off-camera, “If you were a Muppet, which Muppet would you be?” The surprised host laughed before providing his answer.

“I’d probably have to be, because of my job, I’d have to be a nerdy Muppet. I’m your Bunsen Honeydew, your Beaker,” he quipped.

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Classic Rock Legend’s 1985 No. 1 Comeback Album Receives Upgrade

Thu, 03/26/2026 - 9:52am

John Fogerty is still ready to play.

The Creedence Clearwater Revival has announced a remastered version of his 1985 chart-topping comeback album, Centerfield, is set for release on Aug. 28.

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Fogerty made the announcement just as Major League Baseball opened the 2026 season, and he has a full schedule of activities lined up for summer.

The newly remastered version of Fogerty’s only No. 1 solo album, Centerfield (Hall of Fame Edition), was remastered by Emily Lazar from the original half-inch master analog tapes and features such classics as the title track, “Rock and Roll Girls,” and the “Old Man Down the Road.”

The expanded CD and digital versions of the set will include live versions of those hits that Fogerty recorded in 2024 with his current band, which includes his songs Shane and Tyler Fogerty.

Centerfield marked a major comeback for Fogerty and was his first solo success outside of CCR after years of uncertainty following the band’s breakup. Fogerty released an album in 1973 under the name the Blue Ridge Rangers and followed that with his self-titled solo album in 1975. Both failed to yield a hit and left Fogerty feeling like he no longer wanted to make records. Making matters worse, he was in a heated battle with Fantasy Records chief Saul Zaentz over the CCR catalog that was only resolved in recent years.

“It did a lot of damage to my psyche and person­ality as far as confidence,” Fogerty told me in an interview for The Billboard Book of Number One Albums. “There were times in those years when I was scared to go in and buy a pair of socks in a department store.”

Yet a meeting with Warner Bros. Records president Lenny Waronker eventually put him back on track. “He was the first person who lis­tened and he got all excited about it,” Fogerty said. “The man who recorded those songs was not a guy who was full of confidence and filled with the knowledge that the world was waiting for him,” he added. “I was the opposite way. I was a guy with his hat in his hand, wondering if the world still cared about this music or if I was some sort of a relic at the age of 38.”

When Centerfield hit No. 1 on the Top Pop Albums chart in its ninth week, Fogerty joined an all-star team of artists that included John Lennon, Paul McCartney, the Rolling Stones, and Barbra Streisand, all of whom had No. 1 albums in the ‘60s, ‘70s, and ‘80s.

Fogerty, who is the only musician inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame thanks to “Centerfield,” continues his legacy this summer with tour dates with Steve Winwood and a special honor from the Songwriters Hall of Fame. On June 11, he’ll be honored with the Johnny Mercer Award, the Hall’s highest honor.

He’s also set to perform March 28 at the “Thank You, NYPD” concert honoring New York City’s first responders at Madison Square Garden. Cyndi Lauper, Fat Joe and others are also on the bill.

Cardiologists Warn This Common Morning Habit Could Be Aging Your Heart

Thu, 03/26/2026 - 9:50am

A healthy heart truly serves as the foundation of a happy, fulfilling life. After all, this vital organ carries a tremendous amount of responsibility. Each day, your heart pumps oxygen-rich blood, hormones and essential nutrients throughout your body—keeping your cells alive and functioning properly. It even helps remove waste from your body. Needless to say, your heart is one of your most essential support systems.

Since your heart works diligently for you, it deserves the best of care. Prioritizing heart health in your daily routine can help you avoid chronic conditions like heart attacks, hypertension, coronary artery disease and strokes. Simply put, taking care of your heart can improve your quality of life and longevity. And it’s not just about revving up your daily workouts; there are many habits outside the gym that keep your heart happy and healthy.

With that in mind, what if we told you something you may be doing every day could bedamaging your heart? We spoke with heart health experts to learn crucial insight about protecting this organ—and they warn of one common morning habit that may be aging your heart.

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This Common Morning Habit May Accelerate Heart Aging, Cardiologists Say

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The biggest mistake you can make is kicking off your day in a reactive state instead of being intentional. Being “reactive” may involve immediately checking emails and messages or transitioning straight into high-stress mode when you wake up.

“Starting the day in a reactive state…triggers the sympathetic drive of the body. This elevates cortisol levels and catecholamine spikes, which increase blood pressure and heart rate,” explains Dr. Craig Basman, MD, FACC, interventional cardiologist at Hackensack Meridian Hackensack University Medical Center. “Over time, chronic stress induced by cortisol and catecholamines contributes to hypertension and vascular inflammation, which increases risk for neurologic and cardiovascular events.”

Related: This Popular Breakfast Food Could Be Clogging Your Arteries, Cardiologists Warn

How To Start Your Mornings To Support Heart Health

In contrast, beginning each day with intention involves doing soothing activities—meditation, yoga, journaling, etc.—that can reduce stress and support cardiovascular stability. Dr. Mohanakrishnan (Dr. Mo) Sathyamoorthy, MD, FACC, an invasive cardiologist at Texas Christian University's Burnett School of Medicine, recommends establishing a set morning routine you’re able to control—or “rinse and repeat.” By following consistent morning habits and sticking with a similar bedtime that promotes solid sleep, you can avoid stress and decision fatigue.

“[This approach] focuses effort on high-value tasks like eating a nutrient-dense breakfast, [along with] exercising or stretching,” Dr. Mo explains. “All of these add up to a sharper focus for the rest of your day!”

Related: Cardiologists Swear by a Heart Health ‘Rule’ That’s Shockingly Easy

This Is the Time of Day Your Heart Is Most at Risk

The first hour after you rise can be a crucial window for your cardiovascular well-being. In fact, Dr. Alexandra Kharazi, MD, board-certified cardiothoracic surgeon at CVTS MEDICAL GROUP, INC, says the early hours of the morning are “one of the most dangerous” times of the day for your heart health due to a rise in blood pressure, surge in stress hormones and increasing heart rate.

“That combination is one reason heart attacks and strokes occur more frequently in the morning,” Dr. Kharazi adds. “If someone wakes up dehydrated, stressed and immediately pushes their system with caffeine or adrenaline, it can amplify that physiologic surge.”

Related: 7 Foods Cardiologists Always Eat for Heart Health

Who Is Typically Most Vulnerable To Harmful Morning Habits?

As you age, you become more at risk for underlying cardiovascular concerns, including high cholesterol, high blood pressure and stiff arteries. This makes adults over 50 more vulnerable to harmful morning habits that can impact heart health.

“The natural morning surge in blood pressure and heart rate can put extra strain on a cardiovascular system that may already be compromised, making the impact of stressful morning habits more significant,” explains Dr. Basman. “This is why heart attacks are more likely to occur in the morning hours after waking. We have good data that the incidence rises after waking and peaks in the morning hours.”

Related: The Heart-Healthy Habit Cardiologists Say Most People Quit Way Too Soon

Warning Signs That May Indicate Your Morning Routine Is Harming Your Heart

Below, Dr. Basman shares several telltale signs that could mean your morning routine (or something else) is negatively impacting your heart.

  • Pain, tightness or discomfort in the chest
  • Feeling lightheaded or dizzy
  • Unusual shortness of breath when performing light physical activity
  • Immense fatigue that doesn’t improve as the day goes on
  • A racing or irregular heartbeat or palpitations

Of course, if something feels off, it’s always recommended to reach out to your healthcare provider and/or seek immediate care by dialing 9-1-1.

Small Morning Habits That Can Improve Your Heart Health

In order to optimize your morning routine to better your cardiovascular health, consider the following upgrades:

  • Begin each morning by drinking a tall glass of water to boost circulation and rehydrate.
  • Perform 15 to 20 minutes of light movement, such as taking a brisk walk or stretching, to enhance blood flow and strengthen your heart.
  • Incorporate a few minutes of mindful meditation or deep breathing to reduce blood pressure and stress hormones.
  • Consume a heart-healthy breakfast that’s chock-full of fiber, such as a bowl of oats with nuts and berries, to manage cholesterol levels.
  • Get outside to soak up some natural vitamin D to regulate your circadian rhythm. This can be beneficial for sleep and cardiovascular wellness.

If you love your heart, it will love you back. Optimizing your morning routine is a small yet mighty step that can help improve your overall cardiovascular well-being.

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Iconic '90s Actor With Major Emmy Award Turns 76

Thu, 03/26/2026 - 9:48am

Few performers bring as much energy and charm to the screen as Martin Short, who is celebrating his 76th birthday on Thursday.

Over the years, Short has carved out a career defined by bold characters, quick wit and an unmistakable comedic voice. From sketch comedy to film and television, he has remained a constant presence in entertainment, earning both critical acclaim and a devoted fanbase.

One of his early breakout moments came during his time on Saturday Night Live in the mid-1980s. Though his stint on the show was relatively brief, Short made a lasting impression with iconic characters like Ed Grimley, who is now an irrefutable part of the sketch series' history.

"The pressure of the SNL weekly format was a lot for me, which is why I only did the show for a year," Short told Vulture. "But different people have different stories about their experience there."

Throughout the 1990s, Short became a major presence in film and television, solidifying his status as one of comedy’s most recognizable faces. He starred in fan-favorite movies like Father of the Bride and its sequel, where his over-the-top performance as wedding planner Franck, who had a virtually impossible-to-understand accent, became an instant classic.

"The concept was that Steve [Martin] was so alienated from the wedding that Diane [Keaton] and Kimberly [Williams] understood this guy, but he didn't," Short told The New Yorker. "I had to figure out the middle ground where you could understand it, if you were the audience, but you could understand why Steve couldn't understand. When I saw the film, I realized they ended up going with the bigger style."

Short continued to showcase his versatility with roles in projects like Mars Attacks! and Innerspace. During this era, Short's ability to balance eccentric humor with genuine heart helped him stand out, making him a go-to performer for both big-screen comedies and memorable supporting roles.

Four decades later, he later reached another major career milestone with a win at the Primetime Emmy Awards, taking home the award for Outstanding Actor in a Comedy Series for his performance in Only Murders in the Building. The recognition introduced him to a new generation of viewers and underscored his continued relevance in the industry.

Short's career has also been marked by his longtime collaboration with fellow comedian Steve Martin, with the pair frequently teaming up for projects and live performances that showcase their effortless chemistry.

As Martin Short turns 76, his legacy as an Emmy-winning entertainer and comedy icon continues to grow, proving that his signature humor still resonates with audiences of all ages.

Related: Iconic '90s Actor With Major Oscar Award Turns 68

'Shark Tank' Star Reveals Truth About Mark Cuban's 'Habit'

Thu, 03/26/2026 - 9:43am

A quiet act of kindness by billionaire entrepreneur Mark Cuban is making headlines after fellow Shark Tank star Daymond John shared what he calls a powerful “habit” Cuban has; showing up for people when they need help most, without wanting any attention.

The story came to light after Cuban helped a family in crisis. A young girl from Minnesota needed urgent medical care at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, but her family faced a major problem: insurance would not cover emergency travel. 

Within 48 hours of their situation gaining attention online, Cuban stepped in and loaned his private jet, allowing the child to safely travel for a lifesaving transfusion and return home.

Per WLWT, the girl’s mother later shared how grateful she was, calling the support overwhelming and unexpected. But according to John, this kind of help is nothing new.

Daymond John speaks onstage during the 2026 HBCU Aware Fest Casino Royale Fundraiser.

Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images

In a heartfelt message, John explained that Cuban’s actions are part of a long-standing pattern.

“There are a lot of opinions out there about Mark. But let me say this. I’ve personally seen him do things like this dozens of times in different ways,” John wrote on Instagram.

John made it clear that Cuban does not seek recognition for his generosity. 

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“Every time he helps others, he asks people not to share it publicly,” he added. “He never wants the spotlight. He always tells people that it’s all about them and their personal journey.”

Despite knowing Cuban prefers privacy, John admitted he felt this moment was too important to stay quiet. 

“But now that somebody told a news outlet and they posted this… I’m going to double down and brag on my guy. And he is going to be mad at me for it. But whatever,” he said.

John summed it up simply: “Mark has a habit of showing up for people when it matters the most.” 

He even added that this is why Cuban is “all of the Sharks’ favorite Shark.”

Cuban’s latest act of kindness aligns with his long history of helping others, both publicly and privately. While many know him as a billionaire investor and longtime television personality, stories like this reveal a more personal side.

From business ventures to philanthropy, Cuban has often focused on creating opportunities for others. He has previously shared ideas about helping employees build wealth, including giving them ownership stakes in companies. 

While Shark Tank viewers often see tough negotiations and bold investments on screen, off-screen actions like this show a softer and deeply human side.

As the show continues its current season, Cuban is also set to make a return appearance with a business update, reminding audiences that his influence in both business and personal impact remains strong.

Related: 'Shark Tank' Investor Kevin O’Leary Has a 'Wonderful' Net Worth in 2026

Harry Potter Reboot Trailer: Fans Tear Apart the Remake, Calling It ‘Depressing’ and ‘Colourless’

Thu, 03/26/2026 - 9:42am

HBO has finally dropped the trailer for the Harry Potter remake series – and what was initially dismissed as “unnecessary” follow-up is finding a nostalgic audience eager to see the legacy carried forward. But there’s one change that’s upsetting fans more than anything else: the colour palette.

The new trailer has visibly shifted from the warm, orangish tones of the original films to a cooler, grey-blue color makeover – and sharp-eyed fans caught it immediately, wasting no time tearing it apart in the comments.

“The budget didn’t allow for colors? And Snape looks to be too low IQ to be a double- agent,” wrote one user on X.

“Colorless, it look sad while it should look magical with warm Colors, atleast in the first one when you discover the Wizards world,” said another.

The inevitable comparison with movies came fast. “You notice immediately how much brighter and more whimsical the OG movie feels compared to this awful, "dark" new trailer” “The OG film has such a light and magical feeling to it.” “The new HP looks depressing and has the colour palette of DH.”

Others echoed a similar frustration. “The lighting is so sad and depressing, I don’t know how you can pull kids in with this. It feels like the lighting used for Game of Thrones slapped onto Harry Potter which doesn’t work.” “Filmmakers don't know how to light scenes anymore. Grey hazy slop is all we get now.”

One user joked, “They need to turn the lights on.”

Not everyone was entirely negative, though. “I think new one doesn’t like bad it just doesn’t have the right color grading and colors”

To be fair, some fans came to the trailer’s defence, pointing out that this may not reflect the film's actual colour grade. It's not uncommon for trailers to be graded differently from the final cut. There's also a deliberate creative argument to be made — that the cooler tones are used to contrast the Muggle world with the warmer, more magical atmosphere of Hogwarts itself.

Whether that’s the case remains to be seen. While we wait for the series to drop on Christmas, catch the trailer here:

Related: Daniel Radcliffe Has One Request from the Press About the New Harry Potter Stars

‘Age of Attraction’ Andrew and Libby: Where Are They Now?

Thu, 03/26/2026 - 9:37am

Andrew Wheeler claimed he was looking for a wife in the first episode of Age of Attraction. The 38-year-old bar owner committed to a woman he "typically" dates, who is blonde and fun. LibbyVodicka was one of the youngest cast members at 22 years old.

The couple decided if they wanted to continue a relationship outside the show in the finale. Here is everything we know about Andrew and Libby a year after the show ended.

Are Andrew and Libby of Age of Attraction Still Together? Libby Vodicka and Andrew Wheeler on 'Age of Attraction'

Netflix

Andrew and Libby chose to continue their relationship in the finale. Andrew has two daughters and claimed to have a good relationship with their mother. Libby is from San Diego and was open to moving to Baltimore if things became serious.

However, it doesn't look like that lasted long. The teaser for the reunion showed Andrew telling Nick Viall that he almost didn't come to the reunion. Natalie Joy seemingly asked Libby if she had met his daughters. "I have not," she responded.

Related: ‘Age of Attraction’: When Will Season 1’s Reunion Premiere?

The season reportedly stopped filming in April. Libby posted a video on TikTok on April 28 with the words "to whoever marries the man I'm dealing with rn: ur [sic] welcome girlfriend I cooked there and he was a monster."

Libby spent July in San Diego after filming, according to her Instagram. She stopped in Alabama in November. There aren't any posts located in Baltimore, but that could mean they dated long-distance. Andrew didn't post on Instagram after filming.

We'll get a concrete answer about what happened at the reunion, which will be released on The Viall Files on April 1. But it looks like the social media manager was busy traveling the world while the bar owner kept a low profile.

King Charles Spends $172,000 a Day on Hedges — How to Copy the Royal Gardens for $400

Thu, 03/26/2026 - 9:30am

King Charles loves a hedge. We knew this. Following a Freedom of Information inquiry, it has been revealed how much the British taxpayer is shelling out to keep the royal perennials perky. Since 2020, the bill for royal gardens has hit a staggering £282 million ($376 million). That breaks down to about £129,000 ($172,000) every single day.

While many gardeners are debating if they can justify the price tag of that new bag of organic mulch, the Crown Estate and Royal Parks drop the equivalent of a 4 bedroom, 2 bath house in Omaha daily. Expenses have more than doubled in just four years. The budget went from a $36 million bill in 2021 to a projected $89 million in 2025. That’s a massive jump. And it turns out that maintaining 5,000 acres of Windsor Great Park or the geometric rose bushes at the Castle doesn't come cheap.

The High Cost of Highgrove (and Beyond)

King Charles is the world’s most famous organic gardener, but his green thumb requires some serious gold. Estimates suggest Highgrove House costs between $930,000 and $1.1 million annually just to keep the topiary in shape. Those carefully snipped yew hedges and wildflower meadows don't just happen. They require a small army of hands pulling weeds.

The upkeep for Windsor Castle's gardens cost between $2 million to $2.6 million a year. The grounds feature 3,500 perfumed rose bushes and 34 orange trees that were originally a gift from the French King Charles X. Then there's the Sunken Garden at Kensington Palace, a favorite of Princess Diana, which costs the Prince and Princess of Wales up to $600,000 a year to keep looking camera-ready.

Steal the Look Without the Sovereign’s Budget

If you don't have $89 million sitting in the bank this year, you aren't alone. Most households spend about $400 a year on their outdoor space. But Hillarys gardening expert Luke Newnes says you can still channel that royal energy without the tax-funded budget.

“You might think that spectacular gardens are out of reach on a budget, but gardening doesn't have to cost a fortune or take up all your time. In fact, many flowers adored by the Royal Family are surprisingly affordable and easy to grow. Take Lily-of-the-valley, for example, which was one of the late Queen Elizabeth’s favourite flowers during the summer months and even featured in her Coronation Bouquet. It’s a fabulous choice if you want something classic without the fuss, and the best part is that they are incredibly low-maintenance," Newnes says. He also points to Mexican fleabane—a daisy-like flower loved by the Duke of Gloucester—as a cheap win. A pack of seeds costs a few dollars and they’ll spread on their own around patios.

The royals are spending enough on gardens to buy over a million lawnmowers, but the aesthetic is easy to mimic. King Charles recently added a wisteria-covered pergola at Sandringham. As Newnes puts it: “A pergola completely transforms the way you use your garden. It gives you a defined ‘room’ outdoors and draws your eye upwards, which makes the space feel bigger. I love having plants and little decorative accessories around mine—it’s amazing how much difference a few decorations can make." Your backyard might not have a dedicated staff of six like the Royal Lodge, but with a few bucks and some smart planting, it can look like it does.

Savannah Guthrie Recalls Devastating Phone Call About Her Mom: 'She's Gone'

Thu, 03/26/2026 - 9:28am

In an interview with her long time friend Hoda Kotb, Savannah Guthrie opened up for the first time since her mother’s disappearance. In that interview, which will air in two parts on Today, Guthrie described the moment she learned the devastating news that her mom was missing. The call changed everything for Guthrie and her family, marking the beginning of an emotional search and a public plea for information.

"My sister called me and I said, ‘Is everything okay?’ And she said, ‘No, Mom’s missing,’ " Savannah said. "I said, ‘What? What are you talking about?’ She said, ‘She’s gone.'"

Related: Savannah Guthrie Breaks Silence on Ransom Notes in Mom’s Case

"We thought that she must have had some kind of medical episode in the night and somehow the paramedics had come because the back doors were propped open and that didn’t make any sense," Savannah told Kotb. "We thought maybe they came and there was a stretcher and they took her out the back, but her phone was there and her purse was there, all the things. It just didn’t make any sense."

The family called local hospitals to see if Nancy had been admitted, but things soon became clear that something very sinister had happened. The family knew that this wasn't a typical case of an elderly person wandering away from home.

"She can’t wander off,'" she said, adding that her mom was in pain and wasn't very mobile due to her health.

Savannah said that it was her brother, Camron Guthrie, who immediately suspected a kidnapping had taken place.

"He spent his career in the military and worked in intelligence and is a fighter pilot and just brilliant, and he saw very clearly right away what this was," the Today co-anchor said. "And even on the phone when I called him, he knew. He said, 'I think she’s been kidnapped for ransom.'"

Nancy, 84, has been missing since Sunday, Feb. 1.

READ NEXT: Reporter Says Blood Found Inside Nancy Guthrie's Home Matches Disturbing Scene Outside

66 Years Ago Today, Elvis Presley and Frank Sinatra Made TV History

Thu, 03/26/2026 - 9:25am

Sixty-six years ago today, Elvis Presley and Frank Sinatra shared an unforgettable television moment that would go down in entertainment history.

Ol' Blue Eyes welcomed the King of Rock and Roll home from his Army service with a special honoring his return to the public eye. According to the official Graceland website, "the special aired on May 12, 1960, with high ratings, drawing an impressive 41.5 percent of the American viewing audience that evening."

Officially named The Frank Sinatra Timex Show, the special featured not only Sinatra and Presley, but guests Sammy Davis Jr., Joey Bishop, Peter Lawford, and Sinatra's daughter, Nancy Sinatra.

The show was taped 21 days after Presley left his Army service and returned home to Memphis, Tennessee. He was discharged on March 5, 1969, returned home to Graceland on March 8, and taped the Sinatra show on March 26. For his appearance, he was paid $125K.

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During the television special, Presley performed his first post-Army single, “Stuck on You” and “Fame and Fortune.” Additionally, the king and Sinatra created an unforgettable collaboration where they sang one another's hits, including “Witchcraft” and “Love Me Tender.”

The special was filmed at Miami’s Fontainebleau Hotel, on March 26, 1960, according to U Discover Music. When Sinatra decided to embrace Presley, he effectively embraced the rock genre. This was a generational moment that helped bridge younger and older viewers, and helped the special's ratings to skyrocket.

Sinatra and Presley remained friends after taping the special. He lent the singer and his fiancée, Priscilla Presley, his private jet to fly from Palm Springs, California, to Las Vegas for their wedding. They also took the aircraft back to California to begin their honeymoon.

U Discover Music shared Frank Sinatra's statement upon hearing about Elvis Presley's death on August 16, 1977, at 42. “There have been many accolades uttered about Elvis’ talent and performances through the years, all of which I agree with wholeheartedly,” Sinatra stated. “I shall miss him dearly as a friend. He was a warm, considerate, and generous man.”

Frank Sinatra died on May 14, 1998. He was 82.

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