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If you’ve been looking for an easy spring dress that works for brunch, showers, daytime plans, or even Easter, the Blu Pepper Square Neck Midi Dress is worth a look. It’s currently on sale for $40 at Nordstrom Rack, down from $79, and comes in ivory, navy, dusty blue, and red. It’s available in sizes small through large, and the brand says it runs true to size. 

The dress features a square neckline, sleeveless cut, and ladder lace trim at the waist and hem. It has a soft midi silhouette, fitted bodice, wide straps, and a smocked panel. It’s also made from 45% rayon, 40% polyester, and 15% linen, so it has a light texture that’s perfect for warm-weather dressing. Plus, it’s fully lined with an easy slip-on design, so you won’t need to deal with buttons or zippers.

Blu Pepper Square Neck Midi Dress, $40 (was $79) at Nordstrom Rack

Courtesy of Nordstrom Rack

Shop at Nordstrom Rack

The square neckline offers a slightly dressier look than a basic sundress, while the airy fabric blend keeps it comfortable as the weather warms up. The fitted top and fuller skirt give it a flattering shape, and the midi length works well for daytime events and holiday meals alike.

One shopper described the dress as “beautiful” and noted that it “fits perfectly,” while another called it “cute,” “lightweight,” and said it’s made of “great material.” A third added, “The color is very pretty, and the fabric has a linen look to it.” 

Related: Columbia’s 'Versatile' $34 Half-Zip Pullover Is the Easy Spring Layer You’ll Keep Reaching For

If you plan to wear this dress to Easter, brunch, or any other warm-weather daytime event, it pairs well with sandals or wedges and a simple bag. If you wanted to wear it more casually, a denim jacket would be great too, so its versatile design gives you a lot of style options.

Shop More Deals

• Blu Pepper Button Front Denim Midi Dress, $40 (was $89) at Nordstrom Rack
• London Times Square Neck Velvet Midi Dress, $20 (was $130) at Nordstrom Rack
• Max Studio Floral Tie Front Shirtdress, From $25 (was $148) at Nordstrom Rack

If you’ve been wanting a new dress to wear this spring without spending over $50, the Blu Pepper Square Neck Midi Dress is a great one to grab, especially at this price. Be sure to get yours now while it’s still marked down this low in all four colors at Nordstrom Rack.

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Taylor Frankie Paul’s season of The Bachelorette was abruptly canceled just three days before its scheduled premiere—and now, fans are looking back at some of the most jaw-dropping events in the franchise’s history.

Since The Bachelor first premiered in 2002, the franchise has delivered no shortage of controversy, drama, and unforgettable moments.

Here’s a look at the biggest scandals to rock Bachelor Nation over the years.

Taylor Frankie Paul's season gets canceled

Paul’s season was scheduled to premiere on Sunday, Mar. 22. On Thursday, Mar. 19, ABC pulled the plug on her season after TMZ released a never-before-seen video that appears to show Paul assaulting her ex-boyfriendDakota Mortensen in 2023.

In a statement to TMZ, a Disney Entertainment spokesperson said, “In light of the newly released video just surfaced today, we have made the decision to not move forward with the new season of The Bachelorette at this time, and our focus is on supporting the family.”

A spokesperson for the Draper City Police Department in Utah also confirmed that there is an open “domestic assault investigation” regarding Paul and Mortensen related to incidents that allegedly occurred in February 2026.

The spokesperson confirmed “allegations have been made in both directions” and that “contact was made with involved parties on [Feb] 24th and 25th,” but declined to share any further details.

Devin Strader’s past legal issues

In 2024, Devin Strader won Jenn Tran's season of The Bachelorette, and the two were briefly engaged before breaking it off prior to the season's After the Final Rose reunion episode.

However, the real controversy erupted after the season had finished airing. In September of that year, it was revealed that Strader had been arrested in 2017 after allegedly breaking into this ex-girlfriend's home when she was out of town to steal a diamond necklace he had gifted her, according to an affidavit obtained by Reality Steve.

Strader ultimately pleaded guilty to charges of criminal trespass and simple criminal damage to property of less than $500, receiving one year of unsupervised probation. The ex-girlfriend was also granted a restraining order against him, which Strader allegedly violated.

After Strader's legal troubles came to light, fans immediately questioned the show's vetting process, with many wondering how someone with his history was cast in the first place.

At the time, a source close to production told Variety, “We take the safety of our contestants very seriously and make every effort to conduct thorough diligence. As exhaustive as our vetting process is, this protective order did not surface in our searches.”

Chris Harrison's firing

Chris Harrison hosted all Bachelor franchise shows from 2002 until 2021. Harrison left the show following a controversy where he defended season 25 contestant Rachael Kirkconnell when photos surfaced of her attending a racist antebellum themed party.

In an interview with former BacheloretteRachel Lindsay for Extra, Harrison said, “Would this girl, at, I don’t know how old she would have been back then, have thought, ‘You know, historically, this mansion stood for this?'” he said. “‘Guys it’s not really that wokethat we’re here.'”

Harrison also used the term “woke police” during the interview and asked people to have “a little grace, a little understanding, a little compassion” for Kirkconnell.

Kirkconnell, for her part, issued an apology on Instagram and during her season's After the Final Rose. After briefly breaking up with BachelorMatt James amid the scandal, they reconciled—dating for several years before breaking up again in January 2025.

RELATED: Chris Harrison to Host Controversial New Dating Series 5 Years After ‘Bachelor’ Exit

Cassie Randolph's restraining order against Colton Underwood

Cassie Randolph and Colton Underwood first met while filming Underwood’s Bachelor season in 2018, ultimately announcing their breakup in May 2020. In September of that year, Randolph filed a restraining order against Underwood, alleging he put a tracking device on her vehicle, loitered outside her family’s home, and sent her threatening text messages—including ones where he allegedly pretended to be an anonymous stalker.

Randolph dropped her restraining order in November 2020 after she and Underwood were able to reach a private agreement.

In April 2021, Underwood came out as gay in a televised interview with Robin Roberts on Good Morning America. During the interview, he offered a public apology to Randolph for “how things ended” between them.

“I would like to say sorry for how things ended. I messed up,” he said at the time. “I made a lot of bad choices.”

RELATED: Colton Underwood Says He Asked ‘The Traitors’ Not to Mention His Past

Jed Wyatt’s secret girlfriend

Hannah Brown's season of The Bachelorette may hold the title of "the most dramatic season ever."

Shortly after getting engaged to Jed Wyatt at the end of her season in 2019, reports emerged that he had a girlfriend back home named Haley Stevens.

Stevens told People that Wyatt went on the show to further his music career, and that the two were seriously dating up until the day he left for filming.

“He was always so reassuring,” Stevens said at the time. “He told me the show was just an obstacle and we’d be stronger on the other side because of it.”

After news of his secret girlfriend went public, Brown ended things with Wyatt, and even tried to get back with her season's runner-up Tyler Cameron for a short time.

Though Wyatt framed his relationship with Stevens as more casual, he apologized to Brown during After the Final Rose, and said, “I am responsible for this. I will own up to it all day.”

Both Brown and Wyatt have since married other people. But the most shocking part of all of this? Stevens is now married to Brown's brother, Patrick.

Bachelor in Paradise pauses filming due to sexual misconduct allegations

In June 2017, Bachelor in Paradise temporarily paused production after producers voiced concerns over a sexual encounter between Corinne Olympios and DeMario Jackson that was caught on camera. Neither Olympios or Jackson reported the incident themselves.

After an investigation, Warner Bros. found the footage "does not support any charge of misconduct by a cast member" and resumed filming without Olympios or Jackson. Both parties retained attorneys to navigate the aftermath of the situation.

“It’s unfortunate that my character and family name has been assassinated this past week with false claims and malicious allegations,” Jackson said in a statement at the time.

“While I never filed complaints or accusations against anyone associated with Bachelor in Paradise, my team and I felt it was very important to be thorough in getting to the bottom of what had occurred," Olympios added in her statement. "I felt victimized by the fact that others were judging me through conflicting and unsubstantiated reports, while I myself had no recollection of the events that transpired.”

Olympios later said that "nobody knew" how intoxicated she was at the time. She publicly apologized to Jackson, saying she believed he "had no bad intentions at all."

In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Jackson said, “It was 100% consensual. She hopped in my arms, she pulled me into the pool. You’ve seen that with your own eyes. I think people wanted it to be something different. They wanted the angry Black guy and this little, innocent white girl. But it wasn’t. Then it was like, ‘Oh, shit. Ok, damn.’ For months, the media will drag your name through the mud. And the moment it’s no longer a story, that’s it. The media can put ‘alleged’ from a source and put anything you want about a person. It sucks.”

Despite the controversy, the pair remained friends after the incident and made several public appearances together.

Chris Soules arrested for fleeing the scene after a fatal accident

In 2017, former BachelorChris Soules was involved in an accident in which Kenneth Mosher, a 66-year-old war veteran, died.

While driving a Chevy pickup, Soules allegedly slammed into a tractor being driven by Mosher. Soules recounts calling 911, identifying himself to dispatchers, and administering CPR before leaving the scene in a different vehicle than the one he drove there in.

He was later arrested at his home for fleeing the scene, and was sentenced to two years probation in 2019 after pleading guilty. Soules also reportedly paid Mosher’s family a $2.5 million settlement.  

Despite rumors that Soules was intoxicated during the crash, three witnesses testified under oath that they did not detect any alcohol on Soules at the scene, and a blood test administered six hours after the accident registered a 0.0 blood alcohol concentration.

“The trauma of being involved in [the accident] is something I cannot describe,” Soules told People in 2019. “I think about it every day.”

Rozlyn Papa has an alleged affair with a producer

Season 14 of The Bachelor brought a franchise first when contestant Rozlyn Papa was asked to leave the show by Chris Harrison on-air after allegedly having an affair with a producer.

“This is something we’ve never had to deal with in the history of the show,” Harrison said at the time. “You entered into an inappropriate relationship with one of our staffers. That staffer is no longer working with us. Because of what happened, we feel it’s now impossible for you to form a meaningful relationship with [Bachelor] Jake [Pavelka]."

“You think there’s no other girls here that felt for other people before they came on the show?” Papa responded.

Harrison then explained that past relationships differed from dating someone while actively participating in the show before instructing her to pack her belongings and leave that same night.

Jason Mesnick and Arie Luyendyk Jr.'s "switcheroos"

On a more lighthearted note, Jason Mesnick and Arie Luyendyk Jr. have cemented the "switcheroo" into Bachelor Nation history.

Mesnick was the first to pull one off in 2009, when he ended his engagement to Melissa Rycroft to pursue runner-up Molly Malaney instead.

Nine years later, Luyendyk pulled the same move—breaking up with Becca Kufrin in hopes of rekindling things with his runner-up Lauren Burnham. He ultimately proposed to Burnham during his season's After the Final Rose.

Despite their rocky starts, both couples are going strong to this day. Mesnick and Malaney married in 2010 and share one daughter, as well as Mesnick's son from a previous relationship. Luyendyk and Burnham married in 2019 and have four young children.

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The key to keeping your makeup looking beautiful all day (or night) long is making sure to do proper skin prep beforehand, and this affordable product at Ulta helps you do just that. It's especially helpful if you have dry skin, but it works well for all skin types.

Wet n Wild's Take Your Vitamins Super Nutrient Face Mist is a game changer for dry skin. This lightweight primer water is full of skin-loving ingredients that help soothe, brighten and moisturize the skin, all while keeping the skin's moisture barrier nice and hydrated. Some standout ingredients include vitamins C, B5, B3 and F, as well as vegetable collagen, hyaluronic acid, fermented rice and bioflavonoids.

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Wet n Wild Take Your Vitamins Super Nutrient Face Mist, $7.49 at Ulta

Ulta

Shop It!

This primer water works beautifully as a skin prep step, but it can also be used to set your makeup if desired. It comes in a convenient spray form, making it a breeze to apply. All you need to do is hold the bottle six to eight inches from your face. Close your eyes and then spritz the bottle in an "X" formation, fully coating your face. Let it sink into the skin and dry completely.

Related: Ulta Is Selling an 'Absolutely Incredible' New Mascara That Gives Lashes 'Unbelievable Curl'

Shoppers love this face mist, giving it an average rating of 4.7 stars on Ulta.com, with 94 percent of reviewers saying they would recommend the product to a friend. Fans of the face mist report repurchasing it multiple times, touting its hydrating and soothing qualities.

"The absolute best!!!" raved one happy Ulta customer in a five-star review on Ulta.com. "I have gone through sooo many bottles of this!!! It makes my skin so hydrated and melts my makeup into my skin! I have very dry skin so this product is a must for me in my makeup routine!"

"I've been using this for years," said another fan in a five-star review on Ulta.com. "I really like to use it in between powders and creams keeping my face moist while doing make up and when I derma plane, I do recommend."

You can find this online on Ulta.com. It is not sold in Ulta stores. It retails for $7.49.

Related: Ulta Is Selling a New '10/10' Concealer That Blends Great and Looks Beautifully Natural

Even the most stunning homes aren't guaranteed to fly off the market these days. The real estate landscape has shifted a bit, and what might've sparked a bidding war a couple of years ago can now take a little longer to find its match. That's where those "price corrections" come in—basically a reset when the original number ends up being a bit too ambitious for where things are at right now. It's not a knock on the home at all, just part of the process. A prime example of this is Alec and Hilaria Baldwin's Hamptons estate.

Meghan Trainor has also been trying to sell her former Los Angeles home since last year, listing it, pulling it, and then relisting it again. It might sound like a lot of back-and-forth, but it's really just the market doing its thing.

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Trainor's Encino, Calif., property is indeed an absolute show stopper. The seven-bedroom, 10-bathroom estate sits on 14,164 square feet of land, which is, by L.A. standards, sprawling. Back in January 2025, the award-winning recording artist was trying to fetch $9.995 million for the place, but as of March 2026, the listing price is $6.995 million and appears to be under contract.

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The home manages to have a very modern aesthetic while maintaining a warm, inviting vibe—and that resort-style pool ain't too shabby either. There's also a full-size tennis court, putting green, fire pit, lounge and a "custom play area." For the fitness-minded, a full gym is located on the ground floor of the detached guest house.

Related: Orlando Bloom Is Selling His Stunning Malibu Home for $12M—See Inside

What People Are Saying

When listing agent Justin Huchel with Carolwood Estates posted photos of the property to his Instagram, it sparked a flood of compliments.

"Beautiful details and setting," said a commenter. "Congratulations and great work."

Even Pussycat Dolls founder Robin Antin chimed in on the comments section.

"Wooooow…. Beautiful," she wrote.

Needless to say, whoever gets to enjoy this property (and has the nearly $7M to plunk down on it) is one lucky duck. And I'd imagine Trainor will be happy to have the home sale wrapped up so she can move on with the current property where her family resides.

Related: 'It's a Wonderful Life' Star's Former Palm Springs Home Just Hit the Market—See Inside

Fans of Carley Fortune’s beloved book Every Summer After won’t have to wait much longer to see its Prime Video TV series adaptation, Every Year After.

The streaming platform announced the show’s release date and unveiled first look photos from season 1 on Monday, March 23.

“Welcome to Barry’s Bay,” the official Prime Video Instagram account captioned its Monday post. “Every Year After, based on Every Summer After by Carley Fortune, premieres on June 10.”

The accompanying photos offered fans a sneak peek at the beloved characters from the 2022 romance novel. Sadie Soverall and Matt Cornett flaunted their chemistry as main characters Percy Fraser and Sam Florek, respectively. In one picture, Percy rested her head on Sam’s shoulder and wrapped her arms around his as he placed his hand on her knee. In another image, the pair appeared to be close to kissing, with Sam’s hands framing Percy’s face and her hands on his waist. The besties also shared a laugh in the kitchen at his family’s restaurant.

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Other photos shared by Prime Video offered a glimpse at the rest of the cast, including Michael Bradway as Charlie Florek, Aurora Perrineau as Chantal, Joseph Chiu as Jordie, Abigail Cowen as Delilah and Elisha Cuthbert as Sue Florek.

Cate Cameron/Prime

“Told over the course of six years and one week in Barry’s Bay—the quintessential lake town—Every Year After is a romantic, nostalgic story of first loves and the people and choices that mark us forever,” the logline for the series reads.

All eight episodes of season 1 will be released on Prime Video June 10.

Fans of Fortune’s novel reacted to the adaptation update via social media on Monday.

“YESSSSSS!! This is gonna be the SHOW of the summer,” one person commented via Instagram, while another chimed in, “Saving summer!!”

A third fan added, “Crying screaming throwing up. Picking this book up randomly at Barnes [and Noble] to seeing the characters come to life on my TV. I’ve never felt more proud of a stranger.”

Cate Cameron/Prime

“I refuse to apologize for who I’ll become June 10th,” one person replied, while another declared, “I have never been more excited for anything ever.”

Many fans applauded the casting for the show, with one writing, “I’M SO EXCITED EVERYONE LOOKS SO GOOD,” and another gushing, “OUR PERCY AND SAM.”

Others pointed out that Every Year After will arrive on Prime Video nearly one month after the May 13 premiere of Off Campus, a TV adaptation of Elle Kennedy’s hockey romance book series.

“Between this and Off Campus!! Y’all keeping us FED THIS SUMMER,” a fan commented, while another responded, “Off Campus, Every Year After … Summer book girlies are being fed.”

Justine Yeung/Prime Video

Fortune also reacted to the post, replying in the comments section, “See you in Barry’s Bay June 10!”

Fortune’s book Every Summer After spent 16 weeks on the New York Times bestsellers list and has sold 1 million copies to date. The romance novel follows best friends Percy and Sam, who reconnect in Barry’s Bay after a falling out. The story is told over the course of six summers in the past and one weekend in the present as the pair try to figure out whether they can rebuild their fractured friendship into something more.

Fortune is also the author of 2023’s Meet Me at the Lake, 2024’s This Summer Will Be Different and 2025’s One Golden Summer as well as Our Perfect Storm, which will be released on May 5. Netflix adaptations of Meet Me at the Lake and This Summer Will Be Different are also in the works.

Every Year After will begin streaming on Prime Video June 10.

Classic literature remains popular among the masses, and much of that is due to the timeless stories. Many have been adapted into TV shows and movies over the years, with some adapted multiple times, and we never tire of them.

There’s always something to discuss and breakdown, and we look at whether the shows and movies have captured our hearts in the way the the classic novels did in the first place. There are a new set of adaptations coming in 2026, whether you’re looking at the big or small screen, and here are eight you cannot afford to miss.

‘The Count of Monte Cristo’ by Alexander Dumas

While The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexander Dumas is described as an adventure novel, it’s much more than that. It is one of the best stories about vengeance and heartbreak ever to be told. Throw in espionage, playing the long game in style, and romance, you have a tale that has always been worthy of being told on the screen.

Now that adaptation has arrived. The Count of Monte Cristo premiered on March 22, 2026, and there are more episodes to come on PBS. It has already captured the heart of the novel from the beginning, creating a lead character we can root for and celebrate once he gets his chance for revenge.

Photographer: Sean Gleason

PBS Press Site

‘The Forsyte Saga’ by John Galsworthy

After multiple other adaptations, The Forsyte Saga by John Galsworthy is getting another journey on the screen. This time things are being handled very differently, creating a series inspired by the books rather than one that tells the direct story.

The Forsytes on PBS will bring us more of the stories of the women of the time. The first episode already makes it clear that there are substantial changes with the introduction of Louisa Byrne. With the changes, many of the men become more likeable and relationships are those that we want to see succeed, making it an adaptation that is a must-watch.

Penguin Random House

‘Pride and Prejudice’ by Jane Austen

There are certain classic novels that stand the test of time because they offer more than just a bit of romance. They bring us into the world of the past, and Jane Austen was one of the masters of her time. It’s no wonder that Pride and Prejudice has been adapted multiple times on the screen.

The next adaptation comes to Netflix, and this time, it’s a TV series rather than a movie. This is sure to allow more time to develop the romances and the stories, as there’s simply more time to do so. This is described as a “progressive” retelling of the story, suggesting that there may be some changes to help bring some elements up to date with the world today, not that it needs that.

Penguin Random House

‘The Odyssey’ by Homer

If there is one adaptation in 2026 that fantasy adventure fans are looking forward to, it’s that of The Odyssey by Homer. This classic tale is one that immediately draws people in with its promise of adventure, and it quickly pulls elements of Greek mythology that lead to terror and thrills.

Odysseus just wants to get back home to his wife, and we can all respect that. In fact, we want to see that for him. He’s then thrown into the world of a witch-goddess named Circe and sirens, among other creatures, who want to pull him to the depth of the seas. It’s hard to do this story justice, but Christopher Nolan is going to try later in 2026.

Penguin Random House

‘East of Eden’ by John Steinbeck

Netflix is becoming the home of many of the adaptations, with East of Eden by John Steinbeck as another one. This is, again, going to be a TV series instead of a movie, allowing more time for the stories to be developed. 

There is an element of truth to this novel, as the Hamilton family in the novel is said to be the real ancestors of Steinbeck’s maternal grandmother. In fact, Steinbeck put himself into the novel, being the narrator of the story. It was a huge risk at the time, but it’s one that has paid off.

‘The Magician’s Nephew’ by C.S. Lewis

Most people know all about The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis, and it tends to be the first of the Chronicles of Narnia stories adapted. However, Greta Gerwig is doing something different, taking what is technically the first book in the chronicles (sixth published but first in chronological order) and working through everything in order. That means The Magician’s Nephew is the one to start with.

The Magician’s Nephew works as a prequel to the rest of the books, giving us the creation of Narnia thanks to accidental observers bringing a lamp post from 1900’s London. This helped to set up explanations for characters like the White Queen and the need for a human King and Queen, while also making it clear that Narnia is one of many universes. So, it’s more than worth delving into with the upcoming movie.

Penguin Random House

‘Sense and Sensibility’ by Jane Austen

Pride and Prejudice is not the only of Austen’s novels being adapted in 2026. Her first novel, Sense and Sensibility, is getting the same treatment, and it couldn’t come soon enough. Sure, this novel has been adapted a few times, but it’s one of those that stands the test of time with the story within the romance.

This is a story about women who have to figure out how to make life work for them. They’re forced out of their estate to a small cottage on the outskirts of the town they once knew and loved. It takes them from family and friends, and that leads to some resentments and fears. Now we just have to wait until the end of the year for the adaptation!

Penguin Random House

‘Lord of the Flies’ by William Golding

When it comes to dystopias, there is one that will always stand out. It’s the classic novel Lord of the Flies by William Golding, which tells the story of boys who have been stranded on an island. They need to figure out how to survive, and it leads to a discussion of politics, survival, and loyalty.

Netflix surprised all with this adaptation. The downside is that it will only have four episodes, but the novel isn’t the biggest, so there’s probably plenty of time to tell all the important parts. This is one not to be missed when it comes to needing something with a little more adventure, survival, and commentary on all the political systems.

CBS gave Fire Country and Sheriff Country fans a first look at their upcoming crossover event.

On Friday, April 3, for the first time ever, Sheriff Country and Fire Country are joining forces. The bravest and finest in Edgewater must work together to not only solve a mysterious explosion but also find out what happened to nine missing teens.

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Fans are bracing for impact when a bus full of teens suddenly explodes. Sisters Sharon (Diane Farr) and Mickey (Morena Baccarin) must bring Cal Fire and the Sheriff department together to solve the case before it’s too late.

In the footage, fans see the bus explosion as Sharon can be heard saying, “The bus is empty.” Mickey and Boone (Matt Lauria) are shocked when Bode (Max Thieriot) declares the kids are just gone.

Related: Is a ‘Virgin River’ and ‘Sullivan’s Crossing’ Crossover in the Works?

Things go from bad to worse as multiple explosions arise and Mickey’s forced to hold back a very frightened Sharon.

A flip of the scene reveals Eve (Jules Latimer), Cassidy (Michele Weaver), and the teens of Three Rock in the line of fire as another explosion happens, though it's unclear what. Bode and Boone are also in the middle of a different explosion while Mickey and Sharon look on in horror.

It's an intense tease, but enough to get fans excited for the big event. The crossover begins with Sheriff Country, where Bode, Sharon, and Jules crossover, and continues on Fire Country, where Boone and Mickey, Wes (W. Earl Brown) will appear.

Sheriff Country kicks off the night at 8/7c with Fire Country to follow at 9/8c. The crossover will play out like a seamless show, much like what has been done in the One Chicago franchise.

“The crossover event that’s upcoming is on another order of magnitude where we’re really telling one continuous story across two hours of television, and many, many more characters are crossing and with some really fun and unexpected pairings,” Sheriff Country showrunner Matt Lopez revealed to TV Insider.

Lopez also added that it’s a really great case that taps into the strengths of both shows “in the best possible way.”

Next: Oscar-Winning ’00s Star Turns 50 — And Fans Still Quote Her Biggest Role

You may avoid asking people about their health, commenting on any recent weight gain or loss, or about how their job search is going when you know for a fact that they still have the green "open to work" banner on their LinkedIn profile picture. This habit isn't necessarily bad. In fact, it's often a sign of respect. It's worth asking, though: Do you have the same respect for your privacy? People with high levels of self-respect will give a resounding, "Yes!"

"A person with high self-respect is not inclined to share things to earn approval or ingratiate themselves with someone else because they do not need others’ approval to feel solid within themselves," states Dr. Brandy Smith, Ph.D., a licensed psychologist with Thriveworks.

See, there's a limit to the idea of #nofilter, a popular Instagram hashtag that promotes body positivity. Putting up photos of yourself on vacation without cropping or filtering is empowering—no one is arguing that. However, it's still a good idea to be mindful about what you share on social media and even in real life. Dr. Smith shares that having a filter is becoming a lost art in today's society (thanks, in part, to platforms like the aforementioned Instagram).

"We live during a time when people are sharing publicly in many ways with a variety of depths of information," she states. "While it may be true that 'sharing is caring,' it is important to be intentional with who you are sharing with and if you have the type of relationship in which it feels within bounds and appropriate to share what you are saying."

Sometimes, not sharing is caring—when it comes to yourself. For instance, Dr. Smith reveals that people with high levels of self-respect never share these seven personal things, specifically. She also shares what a lack of self-respect does to a person and why privacy is so important.

Related: 10 Surprising Thoughts Psychologists Warn You Should Never, Ever Voice Out Loud, and Why

What Does It Mean To Have a High Level of Self-Respect?

"A high level of self-respect means you are appropriately taking yourself into consideration," Dr. Smith states.

It sounds basic enough—to put yourself not only on your list of priorities but at the top. However, it can be a challenge if you have people-pleasing tendencies and say "yes" to things you don't have time for (or don't want to make time for).

Related: A Psychotherapist Is Begging People To Stop Making This Common Mistake on Social Media

Westend61/Getty Images

She adds that people with high self-respect value themselves and believe they are worthy of others' respect. They also know that they have to treat themselves like they want others to treat them.

"This means treating yourself with value and respect and having appropriate boundaries in which you expect others to do the same," the psychologist says. "This is different from arrogance and self-centeredness."

Indeed, expecting that your boss won't require a response from you at 3 a.m. is not self-centered. It's humane.

Related: 125 Know-Your-Worth Quotes To Remember How Great You Are

7 Personal Things People With High Levels of Self-Respect Never Share, Psychologist Says1. Information that should be shared only with close, trusted people

Never is something of a misnomer. For instance, a spouse needs to know if you're going into medical debt, and you might trust a close friend with the fact that you're filing for divorce. The point is that self-respecting people know the what, when, where and why behind sharing certain personal things.

"Different people have earned access to different information, and this person keeps that in mind," Dr. Smith states. "A person with a high level of self-respect has a sense of what is OK to share with different types of relationships and does not have a 'one size fits all' approach."

2. Self-insults

Quieting our inner critic is a lifelong journey for many of us, and it's not always linear. Still, we don't have to share every quiet thought out loud, especially if we're being mean to ourselves.

"This does not mean a person will not acknowledge mistakes and failures," Dr. Smith clarifies. "Rather, it means they will be talked about in a way that does not devalue or belittle themselves because they are able to separate their sense of self from what has happened."

3. Content that makes other people feel uncomfortable

Remember: Self-respecting people also respect others.

"A person of high self-respect is likely to have a sense of what is appropriate to share and is likely to pay attention to the comfort level of people they are speaking with," Dr. Smith shares. "Have an initial filter they keep in mind and further attune disclosures to the comfort of the audience."

In other words: Read the room before deciding to share the video of your twerking on your 50th birthday with colleagues. Please.

4. Mean thoughts about others

Our thoughts are sometimes unkind to us. Other times, we think mean things about others. You can't control your thoughts or feelings sometimes. You can control your mouth, and sometimes it's unnecessary to tell someone how you really feel (even if they're not returning the favor).

"Someone with high self-respect is less likely to 'stoop' to insults because of the integrity component associated with high self-respect," Dr. Smith says.

5. Guilt-tripping statements

Dr. Smith shares that people who respect themselves don't send others on one-way, all-expenses-paid guilt trips, even if the idea pops into their heads. Instead, they keep it to themselves and continue their own journey, acting with grace.

"At least in theory, someone with high self-respect is more likely to have healthy and appropriate boundaries for themselves and others, so they would not use guilt to manipulate someone else into action," she points out.

6.  Other people’s business

When someone else gives you access to a personal thing, you adopt it as your own if you're a self-respecting individual.

"The hope is that someone with high self-respect will also have respect for staying focused on only sharing information about themselves and would not share others’ business out of turn," Dr. Smith says.

7. Knowingly inaccurate information

It can be hard to know what is true and what's doctored these days. Yet, people with high levels of self-respect aren't ones to spread rumors they either invented in their heads or heard "in confidence" from someone else, but that they know is false. They also don't share every single thing they personally just read (especially without clicking on the article).

"They want to maintain their sense of integrity within their own eyes and not lower it by speaking known inaccurate information or lessen their credibility with such content," Dr. Smith says.

Related: People Who Constantly Overshare Develop These 6 (Surprisingly) Positive Traits

What Does a Lack of Self-Respect Do to a Person?

A lack of self-respect can have a significant effect on your mental health.

"Lack of self-respect can involve a low sense of self, which can relate to low self-esteem and possibly low self-worth, too," Dr. Smith states.

She notes that people with low self-esteem are more likely to be their own harshest critics and lecturers.

"They also may be inclined to allow others to treat them poorly because they do not see that they deserve better," she states. "Low self-respect is likely to make it difficult to have healthy boundaries and to say something when people are treating you inappropriately."

Poor boundaries may lead you to take on more than you can manage at work or fill your calendar with events, parties and commitments that don't fill your cup—ever.

Related: Do You Reveal Too Much? How To Stop Oversharing, According to a Psychologist

Why Is Privacy So Important?

Privacy is crucial, even in a digital age—especially in a digital age.

"Privacy has always been important, but there presently seems to be more people ready and willing to exploit with the widespread access to information," Dr. Smith states. "It is all the more important to be mindful and intentional with what is shared when, with whom and where."

So, verify your sources, avoid clicking on suspicious links, and consider password-protecting everything (especially your bank account).

Up Next:

Related: People With 'Quiet Confidence' Often Use These 17 Phrases, According to Psychologists

Source:

• Dr. Brandy Smith, Ph.D., licensed psychologist with Thriveworks

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Spring has officially arrived, so now's the time to break out your favorite lightweight pajamas that wear well in warmer weather. Amazon's adorable Ekouaer Short-Sleeve Top and Shorts Pajama Set is a stylish upgrade to any sleepwear collection, and it's currently on sale for up to 52% off. 

Originally $25, these cute pajamas are now available as low as $12 in select styles. Each set features a crewneck short-sleeve shirt and a matching pair of drawstring shorts. You can choose from over 20 fun patterns and colors; while the pink and white star style is available at the steepest discount, the other options — including leopard, butterfly, floral, and plaid prints — range from $13 to $20. 

Ekouaer Short-Sleeve Top and Shorts Pajama Set, From $12 (was $25) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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Made of a polyester-spandex blend, the pajamas are designed to feel breezy and breathable, so you can sleep cool and comfortably all night long even in hot temperatures. The short-sleeve top has a color-block style with contrast stitching at the neckline and sleeves, while the shorts feature a stretchy elastic waistband with adjustable drawstrings that you can tighten or loosen to your liking. 

Featuring a relaxed, slouchy cut, these pajamas offer a cozy fit that doesn't bunch up or slide down, whether you're napping, sleeping, or lounging at home. They're machine washable for easy care, and shoppers report that they "wash and dry well," with no pilling, fading, or shrinkage. 

Related: Walmart's 'Super Soft' $11 Satin Pajama Set 'Looks High End' and Comes in 12 Fun Prints

The Ekouaer pajama set has earned over 3,700 five-star ratings. Several praised the "incredibly soft" material, calling it "perfect for hot sleepers." One reviewer noted that the set is "super comfortable to sleep in," while another said it's "so cute" and "perfect for warmer nights."

Shop More Deals 

• Ekouaer Cotton Pajamas, From $12 (was $25) at Amazon
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With their lightweight feel, ultra-cozy fit, and dozens of fun prints and colors to choose from, these popular pajamas are sure to elevate your loungewear this spring and summer. Grab a set while it's still on sale for as low as $12 at Amazon. 

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Oreo is bringing back one of its most popular flavors and fans couldn't be more excited about it.

The century-old brand of sandwich cookies has whipped up so many flavors that it's hard to keep track of them, especially when it comes to Oreo's limited-time collaborations. But some releases just hit different, they're beyond memorable—they're impossible to forget! And sometimes fans get lucky and don't have to beg for the return of discontinued creations, instead celebrating the seasonal flavors year after year.

Which is exactly what's happening now that the company's iconic s'mores cookie flavor has reappeared online and on shelves at some stores.

S'mOREO Cookies Return to Stores for the Season

In a March 23 Instagram post, the official Oreo account shared a collage featuring an image of the seasonal treat, an air mattress, a full glass and a pitcher of milk, and a mirror, joking in the caption: "doing it just for the s’moreos, hbu?"

The company later confirmed in the comments that "Yes these are back 😏."

As its name suggests, the fan-favorite Oreo flavor is inspired by the classic campfire treat that sandwiches smooth milk chocolate and toasty marshmallow between two crunchy graham crackers.

Related: Oreo’s New Cookie Comes With a Twist Fans Didn’t See Coming

In Oreo's version, the company recreates the traditional graham cracker with its own graham-flavored cookies, which are then slathered with two layers of chocolate and marshmallow-flavored creme, according to an official description.

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The flavor debuted over a decade ago as a Summer 2015 exclusive and has continued to draw loud applause every year that it's returned—this year included.

"One of the best OREOS ever created has returned!" declared influencer Markie_devo in a March 23 social media post.

"G.O.A.T," another excited fan cheered.

A third joked, "It’s about time."

"Yesssss," someone else gushed, "My favorite!"

"Yay!!!" another celebrated, adding that they also want the brand's collaboration with artist Post Malone to come back. The limited-time cookie flavor was initially released in January 2025 as a special offer featuring a salted caramel and shortbread-flavored creme swirl between two cookie flavors: one traditional Oreo and one Golden Oreo.

"I want an ice cream shake with this," a different fan suggested before one more simply called the summertime favorite, "Yummy."

Where Will the S'mores Flavor Oreos Be Available?

The returning S'mOREO sandwich cookies are expected to be available at most major retailers nationwide that regularly stock the brand (ACME, Randalls, ShopRite, Target, Walmart, and more; prices may vary) this spring and summer. The returning favorite appears to still be in the early stages of its rollout, so if it's not on shelves near you just yet, it likely will be as we inch closer to the warmer weather months.

Impatient fans can also purchase packs of the summertime favorite online via the official Oreo website, where a single 10.68-ounce package can be purchased for $5.29 (plus shipping) for a limited time.

Next: Hudsonville Dips Into Nostalgia This Summer With New Dessert-Inspired Ice Cream Flavor

Actor Karim Diané, 23, has released a statement about the cancellation of the Paramount+ series Star Trek: Starfleet Academy, which premiered its first season in January 2026.

In a March 23 Instagram video, Diané, who plays Klingon Jay-Den Kraag on Star Trek: Starfleet Academy, shared his thoughts about the series only getting two seasons.

"Season 2 will be our last season. That is really hard for me to say because I love this show so much. I got the chance to create 20 episodes within one of the most iconic sci-fi franchises of all time, alongside some of the most experienced and talented artists in this entire industry," shared Diané, seemingly referencing his well-known Star Trek: Starfleet Academy castmates, Holly Hunterand Paul Giamatti.

He also noted that Star Trek fans only have 10 more episodes of Star Trek: Starfleet Academy to look forward to.

"And there is 10 episodes left. Season 2 was just basically Season 1 turned all the way up. I also have so much behind-the-scenes content that I'm going to continue sharing," said the actor in his post.

He ended his upload by thanking fans for supporting him, his character, and Star Trek: Starfleet Academy.

In the comments section of the post, Diané referenced that Jay-Den is gay and is in a relationship with his fellow cadet, Kyle (Dale Whibley).

"Season 2 is GAY AF, and I have SOOOOO much bts content coming your way. Please prepare to be sick of me im going to be EVEN LOUDER and more annoying about this beautiful gay Klingon. we going out IN FLAMES," wrote Diané.

Several Fans Shared Their Disappointment About 'Star Trek: Starfleet Academy' Ending

Several Star Trek: Starfleet Academy fans took to the post's comments section to share their support for the show's cast following the news of its cancellation.

"So much love to you and the rest of the cast. A beautiful first season and I am so looking forward to the second," wrote one commenter.

"This breaks my heart, but I’m so glad we’re getting season 2. Thank you for all you’ve given us!" added another.

"Love you Karim. You are amazing. I love Star Fleet Academy, and I know so many people will be writing letters to fight for a season 3," shared a different person.

"I have just shown season 1 to my 80 year old Dad in his hospital room and he loved it. Said [Star Trek creator Gene] Roddenberry would have loved it. The yt, boomer, TOS loving man, loved your show. I am heartbroken at this news :(," commented a fan.

Paramount hasn't revealed when Star Trek: Starfleet Academy season 2 will debut.

Bananas are one of those groceries that feel like they turn on you the moment you bring them home. One day they’re perfectly yellow, the next they’re spotted, soft and clearly headed for banana bread territory. It’s a familiar frustration, which is probably why banana storage hacks spread so quickly online. When a viral TikTok trend claimed there was a simple way to slow down the ripening process, I was immediately intrigued. Anything that promises to stretch the life of a bunch of bananas feels worth investigating.

The logic behind the trend sounds convincing. Bananas release ethylene gas as they ripen, and that gas plays a major role in how quickly they move from underripe to overripe. The idea is that if you can somehow slow down that process, you can keep bananas fresher for longer. On TikTok, creators like Terena (@motherhoodonpurpose) have shared a simple hack with confident claims and visual comparisons showing bananas staying bright yellow well past their usual window.

Rather than taking those results at face value, I decided to test the claim myself. I kept a close eye on the bananas over the course of a week, checking their color, texture and overall ripeness each day. I fully expected to see at least a small difference, but the result wasn't exactly what the internet promised. Here's what you need to know.

Related: Wait, Should You Actually Wash and Reuse Ziploc Bags?

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Why Do Bananas Ripen So Quickly?

Courtesy Angel Albring

As stated above, bananas naturally produce ethylene gas, which speeds up the ripening process. That’s why they can take other nearby fruit along for the ride if stored together. Temperature, light and airflow all play a role, but once bananas start ripening, it’s hard to slow them down.

The ethylene is primarily released through the stem end, which is why so many storage hacks focus on that area. Keeping the stem end covered is supposed to slow the ripening process.

Related: The Super Clever Plastic Bag Trick We Wish We’d Known About Sooner

Why People Think This Hack Works

The wet paper towel method is supposed to limit the release of ethylene exposure by covering the stem end. Wrapping banana stems with plastic wrap has been around for years, and the paper towel version feels like a more eco-friendly spin on that idea.

@motherhoodonpurpose

How to keep bananas fresh longer! What fruit do you wish lasted longer? #momhacks #over30clubontiktok #sciencefair #justvisiting

♬ original sound - Motherhood On Purpose {Terena}

In theory, the moist paper towel could form a partial seal around the stem end of the bunch of bananas, slowing the release of the gas. In practice, results seem to vary, and that’s why testing matters.

Courtesy Angel Albring

Related: The Clever Plastic Bag Trick We Wish We’d Known About Sooner

How I Tested This Banana Hack

All you need is a bunch of bananas and a paper towel. To test this hack, I wrapped a wet paper towel around the stems of one bunch of bananas and left another bunch unwrapped. Both were purchased at the same time and were at the same stage of ripeness.

Courtesy Angel Albring

They sat on the same counter for seven days. Each day, I checked color, firmness, and spotting to see if the wrapped bananas showed any delay in ripening compared to the control bunch. I also rewet the paper towel each day so it didn't dry out.

Courtesy Angel Albring

Related: The Clever Coffee Filter Trick We Wish We’d Known About Sooner

My Honest Thoughts About This Banana Hack

This hack is not a total fail, but it's also not a full win. After a week, both bunches ripened at the same rate, but once they reached the same yellow color, the one with the paper towel seemed to slow a little, but I don't think it was noticeable enough to really matter. For something that requires daily visual payoff to feel worthwhile, this just didn’t deliver the way I thought it would.

Courtesy Angel Albring

If it did slow the ripening process, it was maybe by a day or two at most.

Related: The Super Smart Paper Towel Storage Trick We Wish We'd Known About Sooner

Tips and Alternatives

If you want bananas to last longer, separating them from other fruit, refrigerating them once ripe or buying them at varying stages of ripeness tends to work better. Freezing peeled bananas for smoothies or baking is also a reliable option, so that you can extend their life without having to resort to banana bread.

Courtesy Angel Albring

Not every viral hack is a winner, and that’s okay! Sometimes the most helpful takeaway is knowing what doesn’t work, so you don’t waste time trying it again. This paper towel hack isn't one I'd do again, but it was a fun, cheap and easy experiment.

Up Next:

Related: I Tried the Viral ‘Sugar Cookie Banana Bread’ Recipe To See if It Lives up to the Social Media Hype

Gypsy-Rose Blanchard continues to own the spotlight with all-new pics capturing her recent weight-loss journey.

The reality star, 34, took to social media over the weekend to flaunt her slimmed-down figure while vacationing in Florida.

In the Instagram carousel posted on Saturday, March 21, she is seen posing on a balcony and wearing a black tank top that's tucked into jeans. Blanchard dons a silver-and-gold belt, silver bracelets and a necklace as well.

“Sunny Florida ☀️,” Blanchard captioned the post that sees her smiling in one photo and looking off into the distance in the other.

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Fans flooded the comments section of Blanchard's upload with their love and support amid her new look. "Damn you’ve gotten so Skinny queen❤️ u look amazing," wrote one Instagram user, while another person wrote, "In my personal opinion brunette looks the best on you! You are literally glowing queen!! Have fun on your trip!"

The Gypsy Rose: Life After Lockupstar also showed off a noticeably slimmer figure earlier this month on social media and, after fans questioned whether she was using a GLP-1 medication, she finally addressed the rumors. In a post on Instagram March 4, Blanchard shared a video stepping on the scale, showing that she was weighing in at 108.2 pounds.

“Okay y’all, I’m not gatekeeping. My weight loss came from life circumstances,” Blanchard began. “After being released two years ago my lifestyle changed a lot — from commissary junk food to home-cooked meals and trying new foods.”

She continued, “I don’t follow a workout routine (though I’d love one), I don’t limit my diet, and I don’t use GLP-1. I wasn’t actively trying to lose weight… my whole life just changed and adjusted to freedom. 💗”

And in a now-deleted post in December 2025, Blanchard celebrated her growth and the emotional healing she’s been through since being released as well as divorcing her ex-husband, Ryan Anderson, and welcoming a baby girl with partner Ken Urker.

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The right lamp can completely change the feel of a room. It adds warmth, improves visibility, and helps create a more inviting atmosphere. When choosing lighting for your living space, it’s important to find something adaptable that works whether you’re reading, working, or just relaxing at the end of the day.

The Rosdorf Park Carmeline Traditional Adjustable Floor Lamp is a great option that blends function with style. It’s currently 51% off at Wayfair, bringing the price down from $130 to as low as $64. For a well-made, adjustable piece, that’s a strong deal.

Rosdorf Park Carmeline Traditional Adjustable Floor Lamp, From $64 (was $130) at Wayfair

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This lamp comes in three finishes — brass, bronze, and nickel — so it’s easy to match with your existing decor. It features a linen-blend shade that softens the light, creating a warm and cozy glow without making the room feel too dim. The overall look is classic and easy to style.

The base measures about 9.8 inches wide, giving it a stable foundation, while the shade is 15 inches wide and 10 inches tall. It weighs just under 10 pounds, so it feels sturdy without being difficult to move. The proportions make it a great fit next to sofas, chairs, or reading nooks.

One of its most useful features is the adjustable height, which ranges from 52.5 to 63.5 inches. This flexibility makes it easy to position for different needs, whether you’re using it as a reading light or general room lighting. It adapts well to a variety of layouts.

Related: Amazon's 'Lovely' $42 Edison-Style Glass Floor Lamp Adds Instant Vintage-Style Charm

It uses a standard E26 socket, and while the bulb isn’t included, it’s compatible with many options. The three-way rotary switch lets you control brightness levels with ease. It also meets UL safety standards, which adds peace of mind for everyday use.

This highly-rated floor lamp is Wayfair Verified and has over 250 five-star reviews. One shopper shared, “It looks elegant and adds a warm, cozy ambiance to the room. It blends nicely with any decor style — modern, traditional, or minimalist.” Another described it as “very sturdy and solid,” adding that it “looks great wherever you put it.”

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If your space could use a simple but impactful lighting upgrade, the Rosdorf Park Carmeline Traditional Adjustable Floor Lamp is a smart choice. With the current 51% discount, you can save over $65 and bring home a versatile, well-designed piece for just $64.

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The rock genre has led to some of the greatest female singers, from Heart's Ann Wilson to The Runaways' Lita Ford, to name a few. Among the many who have cemented themselves as leading rock women, only one was ranked in the No. 1 spot as being the best of all time.

UDiscoverMusic compiled an extensive list of some of the greatest frontwomen to exist, but only Patti Smithwas named in the No. 1 ranking. Coming in second was none other than Blondie lead singer Debbie Harry, with Fleetwood Mac's Stevie Nickscoming in at No. 3. The legendary Joan Jett comes in at No.4, and Tina Turnerrounds out the Top 5.

According to the ranking, Smith "needs no introduction," having cemented herself as an icon for blending rock and poetry during the rise of the punk rock scene in New York City during the '70s. Her debut 1975 album, Horses, made her a huge influence during the music era with tracks like "Break It Up" and "Free Money." It landed in the Top 50 of the Billboard 200 album chart and gained moderate success. Surprisingly, the tracks never reached No.1 status on the charts.

Smith's melding of music and poetry led the album to be tagged as one of the greatest of all time and reportedly as the first punk rock album. It was also preserved by the Library of Congress for its historical influence. In 1978, Smith released one of her most well-known songs, co-written by Bruce Springsteen, "Because the Night."

The track was released as a single and was a commercial success. It landed at No.13 on the Billboard Hot 100 charts and ranked No. 5 in the UK. Years later, NME magazine ranked it as one of the best singles of all time. That same year, Smith and The Patti Smith Group released their album Easter with popular tracks "Frederick" and "Dancing Barefoot."

Related: 1961 Best-Selling Classic Became a No. 1 Hit 65 Years Ago

In her career, Smith has been nominated for multiple Grammys, but never secured a win. Beyond music, Smith was widely known as a poet, author, painter, and photographer, who released the award-winning memoir Just Kids in 2010. The punk rock icon has been publishing her works since the early 70s, and even the poems her songs have been based on.

Smith has been mentioned for inspiring singer-songwriters and bands like Madonna, The Waterboys, Hole, R.E.M., U2, and Shirley Manson. In 2005, she was named a Commander of the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres by the French Minister of Culture for her contribution to the arts. She was later inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2007.

Chaka Khan is turning 73, and she has some major news to celebrate.

The "Queen of Funk," who kicked off her five-decade career in the '70s with the band Rufus, scored major hits like "I'm Every Woman" and "Ain't Nobody." With 11 Grammy Awards to her name, Khan continues to rock onstage and everywhere she goes. That includes celebrating her 73rd birthday on Monday, for which her team took to Instagram to post a series of photos of the legend, set to "Life is a Dance." Several of the shots were new ones, showing that the musical icon looks better than ever at 73. Glowing to this day, the beauty is ageless, no matter what year it is.

"Today we celebrate Chaka and wish her a very happy birthday. Her voice, her spirit, and her artistry have touched generations, and today is the perfect day to send a little of that love back her way. Please join us in wishing Chaka a beautiful birthday in the comments. 💜#ChakaKhan#Queen," the caption read.

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What is Chaka Khan's Big Announcement?

This month, Khan's story headed to the stage with the new musical, appropriately named "I'm Every Woman." The production tells the story of Khan's tough upbringing in Chicago, her struggles with addiction, and her rise in the music industry.

“There were times when I thought, will I make it? Will I live through this?” Khan told Harper's Bazaar UK. “I went through all this stuff – drugs and the whole nine yards – so I’m just happy that I made it.”

Despite everything she's been through, Khan said she's still not ready to slow down just yet.

“I see bits and pieces of my what I do for a living, and sometimes I don’t believe it’s me,” she said. “I’m still excited about what I do. It still moves me. When you know there are all these people out there waiting to hear you sing, it’s a special thing. ”

Take a look at the musical below:

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Related: ‘80s Cruise Announces 2027 Lineup: 'You Had Me at Chaka Khan'

The beloved Beatles' 1967 concept album Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band, which secured the number 1 spot on Billboard Top 200 on July 1, 1967, is considered a timeless classic. Nearly 60 years after its debut, the record was recently spotlighted by Collider for its lasting influence.

On March 23, Collider released a list of the three "of the Greatest Rock Concept Albums of All Time." The list featured Green Day's acclaimed record, American Idiot, released in 2004, My Chemical Romance's The Black Parade from 2006, and Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band.

The publication reported the Beatles decided to take on personas to record the band's eighth studio album, with hits like "When I'm Sixty-Four," "Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds," and "A Day in the Life."

Paul McCartney Shared the Process of Recording 'Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band' in a 2020 Interview

Paul McCartney discussed coming up with the album in a 2020 interview on The Howard Stern Show. According to the bassist, the title of the record came to him when the Beatles' roadie asked him to "pass the salt and pepper."

"And I thought he said Sgt. Pepper. I said, 'That's great! Wait a minute, hold that, right there.' So that was the idea planted, and then because I had been listening to all this alternative music, I thought, 'Wait, what about that for an idea?'" explained McCartney, now 83.

He said that he decided he and his bandmates, which included Ringo Starr, the late John Lennon, and the late George Harrison, should "pretend that [they were] another band" while recording the album.

"The idea was 'When you walk up to the microphone John, you won't be John Lennon, you'll be a guy out of this group, so you can do anything you want,'" said McCartney during the 2020 interview.

He also said the personas allowed the band to record more musically complex and avant-garde songs.

"It allowed us to do crazier things that we might otherwise not have done," explained the musician.

Get ready to trade your controller for a seat on a roller coaster. In a massive win for the gaming community, Mojang Studios and Merlin Entertainment have officially announced that a real-life Minecraft World is coming to the theme park circuit in 2027.

The $70 million attraction is set to break ground at Chessington World of Adventures in Greater London, marking a major milestone as the first official video game-themed land in the United Kingdom.

“We’re absolutely thrilled to be bringing Minecraft’s creativity, bold adventures and ridiculous fun to life at a theme park for the first time at Chessington World of Adventures," said Angela Jobson, SVP of Global Brand, Merlin Entertainments, in a press statement. Minecraft World will allow friends and families to play, explore and craft together on a truly epic scale.”

Related: The UK’s First Live-Action Historical Theme Park Is Arriving Summer 2026

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The project is being designed in direct collaboration with top Minecraft content creators to ensure every pixelated detail feels authentic. Fans can expect to walk through the game’s most iconic biomes and come face-to-face with the mobs they’ve spent years building (or running away from) on their screens. The crown jewel of the expansion will be a world-first Minecraft-themed roller coaster, which promises to bring the physics of the game to life in a way we’ve never seen before.

The move follows the massive global success of immersive lands like Super Nintendo World and PokéPark Kanto, proving that the demand for "screen-to-theme-park" experiences is only growing. Torfi Frans Ólafsson, the senior creative director at Mojang, emphasized that the goal is to create a space where the global community of fans can finally step inside the universe they’ve helped build. “The team at Merlin Entertainments and Mojang have worked hard to craft an experience that feels immersive, authentic and welcoming, and we can't wait for our community to experience it.”

The Minecraft expansion is just the tip of the iceberg for Chessington, which has a massive few years of development ahead. Before the creepers and pickaxes arrive, the park is rolling out the red carpet for its youngest fans with the opening of World of PAW Patrol in spring 2026. This $20 million immersive land will bring Adventure Bay to life with four new rides, including "Chase’s Mountain Mission," a junior coaster designed specifically as a "my first roller coaster" experience. The park is even leaning into the staycation trend by debuting five PAW Patrol-themed hotel rooms, allowing families to sleep in their very own PAW Patroller before heading out to meet Chase, Skye and Marshall in the park.

Related: Paw Patrol is Getting Its Own UK Theme Park Land in 2026

But the UK’s theme park "arms race" doesn't stop in London. Down in Hampshire, Paultons Park—famously known as the home of Peppa Pig World—is pivoting toward a more thrill-seeking demographic with the debut of Valgard: Realm of the Vikings on May 16, 2026. This $16 million expansion is specifically designed to appeal to teenagers and families looking for a bit more adrenaline. The star attraction is "Drakon," a high-intensity coaster featuring a vertical lift hill and the park’s first-ever inversions.

While the doors aren't slated to open until 2027, the buzz from the 2026 Minecraft Live showcase has already made this one of the most anticipated travel debuts of the decade.

Related: A New Viking-Themed Land Is Coming to One of the UK’s Best-Known Theme Parks

Many people are working on their spring and summer travel plans at the moment, working on balancing their vacation budgets while still trying to put together the perfect itinerary. And while many of them will hit, "book now" without any second thoughts, there is a growing group of Americans who are pumping the brakes on their upcoming trips, opting to cancel their plans well in advance of their travel dates.

The reasons why they are backing out of these pre-planned trips range from the price of gas, to the unrest in the Middle East, highlighting how some people are opting for trepidation over travel plans in 2026. Here's what they are saying.

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Related: Are ICE Agents Replacing the TSA? Here's What We Know

Threats Against U.S. Citizens Have Some Travelers on Edge

While there are plenty of reasons to be worried about traveling right now—I'll admit to feeling my blood pressure go up every time I watch clips of people spending hours waiting in TSA lines—many Americans have shared personal safety being among the reasons why they are cancelling their vacation plans.

A woman named Kara Richardson told USA Today about how she put the kybosh on a mid-March trip to Orange County in California after the FBI warned authorities in the state of the potential of an Iranian attack after the U.S. took part in the bombing of the country at the end of February. "It spooked me enough that I was like, I think I'm just going to sit this one out," she told the publication.

@_girllockin

I’m not the pressed to travel 😭 if I gotta take the LOSS then whoopty doo !! #traveling

♬ original sound - Tyanna | 100k Networth Journey Issues With Oil and Gas Supplies Are Worrying Some

One TikToker shared a video about her planned July vacation this week, revealing how she had "come to peace" with the idea that she may have to cancel her plans if the ongoing global oil shortages continue.

"If May comes around and there's still a bunch of chaos going on and the oil people can't get oil in certain countries, I promise you I'm going to cancel this trip with the quickness," she said.

"Here’s the thing, it’s not about going. It’s about getting back," a commenter chimed in. "It’s a possibility that you’ll be stuck overseas for a longer duration than what you planned and budgeted for. You won’t know until it’s time for you to come back."

@theveteranbabe

There are thousands of flight cancellations all over the country! It’s bad! #canceledflights #deltaairlines #houstontexas #houstonspringbreak

♬ Chopin Nocturne No. 2 Piano Mono - moshimo sound design Getting Stuck Away From Home is a Big Concern

"If you can avoid flying right now, please do so," another TikToker began her video, sharing how she had gotten stuck in Houston for several days due to the ongoing delays caused by TSA staffing issues.

"She ain't lying, Atlanta the same and no one is doing one way on rentals or they don't have any," another person posted in the comments, saying that they were forced to take an uber to a location an hour away so that they could rent a car to drive back home. "Delta sent us to three airports and then the last one was standby and we didn't make the list and then nothing, no option to rebook or anything."

@caracelestewest

Travel in 2026 looks a little different, and one thing I recommend to every traveler right now is travel insurance ✈️ #travel2026 #travelabroad #internationaltravel #travelhack

♬ original sound - Cara | Digital Nomad Mom Those Who Are Traveling Are Taking Out Insurance Policies

For those who are unable, or unwilling, to cancel their trips are being told to take extra precautions while traveling. Whether that means following Travel Advisories being issued by the U.S. government, or simply springing for a travel insurance policy.

One travel influencer posted a video on her account about the importance of travel insurance in this current climate. However, she says that not all travel policies are created equally, and it's important to pay close attention to what your policy does and doesn't cover, like:

• Acts of war, since she says most policies will not cover this as part of a standar policy
• Cancel for Any Reason (or CFAR) riders, these add-ons will allow you to cancel for any reason, even if you just get too nervous to go
• Losses related to travel delays and trip interruptions

Related: What Is the Fastest Way to Get Through the TSA Today?

Of course, sometimes you just have to trust your gut and stay home. But, if you're not ready to call it quits on your upcoming plans, it sounds like taking those extra precautions (and remaining flexible) could give you enough peace of mind to get you out the door.

If you're even a little bit crafty and living in a small space, you already know the struggle: where exactly are you supposed to do your projects? The kitchen table sometimes works until it's time to eat. The coffee table? Not ideal. And while, yes, you could absolutely build your own work surface (because you are that handy), it still needs to check a few key boxes—like not taking over your entire living space.

That's the real challenge. It isn't just about having a spot to sand, paint, assemble or glue things together; it's about having one that disappears when you're done. Because as much as we love a good weekend project, we also like having a place to sit that isn't covered in sawdust.

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Workzone Foldable Worktable, $24.99 at Aldi

Aldi

All of this leads up to why foldable options are kind of a game-changer for DIYers and weekend warriors, like Aldi's Workzone Foldable Worktable. You get a solid, reliable surface when you need it, and then—poof—it tucks away like it was never there. It's practical, space-saving and ready to roll whenever inspiration (or a random Saturday project) strikes.

Related: This Aldi Bird Feeder Turns Your Window Into Live Entertainment

Aldi has sold this worktable in the past, and while it's $24.99 at full price, last year a shopper scored it on clearance for $1.99. Yes, that's in U.S. dollars. Just keep in mind that it may never hit that super low price at your Aldi, and once these worktables are gone for the season, they're gone. So you may not want to hedge your bets on it getting to a lower price.

"That's an incredible steal," said an Aldi shopper in a Reddit thread about the worktable. "I paid full price for mine and love it. I'm not doing heavy duty construction with it, but it's a great level surface at a good height for me."

The Aldi Finds aisle is stocked with goodies right now, including pretty spring tableware and a sturdy potting bench. Beyond that, there are some really cute clothes, like a shirtdress that could totally pass for Anthropologie. But if it's your Easter table you're looking to dress, Aldi's cottagecore tablecloths will add tons of charm to your holiday setup, and at a really phenomenal price.

Related: IKEA Is Selling a Vibrant 2-Pack of a Kitchen Essential That Will Make Meal Prep Much More Cheerful