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Nearly 40 years after it was first published, Don DeLillo's White Noise continues to be celebrated as one of the defining novels of modern literature.

The acclaimed 1985 book has been included on Pan Macmillan's list of the 50 best books of all time, placing it alongside classics by Charles Dickens, Jane Austen, Toni Morrison, and F. Scott Fitzgerald. The recognition is the latest honor for a novel that has shaped generations of readers and writers alike.

Published in 1985, White Noise marked a turning point in DeLillo’s career.

The novel follows Jack Gladney, a professor of Hitler studies at a small liberal arts college, whose seemingly ordinary suburban life is disrupted by an environmental disaster known as the "Airborne Toxic Event." Blending satire, family drama, and philosophical reflection, DeLillo explores themes of consumer culture, media saturation, technology, mortality, and the anxieties of modern life.

"In White Noise in particular, I tried to find a kind of radiance in dailiness," Delillo said in an interview. "Sometimes this radiance can be almost frightening. Other times it can be almost holy or sacred…. Our sense of fear--we avoid it because we feel it so deeply, so there is an intense conflict at work…. I think it is something we all feel, something we almost never talk about, something that is almost there. I tried to relate it in White Noise to this other sense of transcendence that lies just beyond our touch. This extraordinary wonder of things is somehow related to the extraordinary dread, to the death fear we try to keep beneath the surface of our perceptions."

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The book quickly distinguished itself from other literary fiction of its era.

Rather than offering straightforward social commentary, DeLillo infused the novel with dark humor, sharp dialogue, and surreal moments that reflected the increasingly media-driven world of the late 20th century. Its observations about information overload and society's relationship with technology have only become more relevant in the decades since its publication.

"I always carry a pencil and a notebook," Delillo told The Guardianin a rare interview. "Coming on the train today I had an idea for a story I'm writing and jotted it down – on just a little scrap of paper. Then I clip these together. I'll look at them in, say, three weeks' time, and see what I've got. You know, I've never made an outline for any novel that I've written. Never."

White Noise also earned widespread critical acclaim.

The novel received the 1985 National Book Award for Fiction, firmly establishing DeLillo as one of America's most important contemporary novelists. It has since become a staple of college literature courses and regularly appears on lists of the greatest English-language novels ever written.

Its influence has extended well beyond the page.

In 2022, filmmaker Noah Baumbach adapted White Noise into a feature film starring Adam Driver and Greta Gerwig, introducing the novel to a new generation of audiences. The adaptation renewed interest in DeLillo's work and highlighted just how prescient many of the book’s themes had become.

Now, four decades after its debut, White Noise has received another significant accolade with its inclusion on Pan Macmillan's list of the best books of all time. For Don DeLillo, the novel remains a landmark achievement, one whose exploration of fear, family, and the constant hum of modern life continues to resonate with readers around the world.

Related: Best-Selling Author’s 1989 Novel Ranked Among Best Books of All Time

The cast of Little Miss Sunshine is reminiscing about making the film, 20 years after it hit cinemas. The indie movie follows a dysfunctional family as they travel across the country to enter their daughter into a pageant.

Speaking to People at Sundance earlier this year, Greg Kinnear, Toni Collette, Paul Dano and Abigail Breslin revealed some "dangerous" behind-the-scenes facts about making the beloved comedy/drama.

Greg Kinnear declared the film, which also starred Steve Carell and the late Alan Arkin, "the most dangerous movie ever made." The actor explained that every scene filmed in the iconic yellow van involved him actually driving.

When he was driving the van, the movie's directors Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris “contorted” in the car “with a headset listening.” It is uncommon for the actor to drive the vehicle; usually, these scenes are shot by towing a car or mounting it onto a platform driven by another person.

Paul Dano, Alan Arkin, Abigail Breslin, Directors Jonathon Dayton and Valerie Faris and Greg Kinnear attends the LAFF closing night premiere of "Little Miss Sunshine" at the Wadsworth Theatre on July 2, 2006 in Brentwood, California. (Photo by Mark Mainz/Getty Images)

Paul Dano also recounted to the outlet about a prank Kinnear pulled on Arkin early on in the shoot, which included the actor breaking a traffic law. “I remember the second the van took off from the production office — with Greg driving — Alan said, ‘I have to pee,’” the There Will Be Blood actor recalled. “And Greg refused to pull over."

Dano added that Kinnear either drove through “a full red light,” or “close to a red light if not one. You didn’t want to give Alan the chance to get out of the van to go, and so you blew right through it.”

“I like the idea that this was the most dangerous film ever made,” joked Abigail Breslin, who was just 10 years old when she starred in Little Miss Sunshine.

In 2022, Kinnear joked about the dangers of making Little Miss Sunshine during an appearance on The Kelly Clarkson Show. “You can count every Michael Bay movie ever made, this is the most dangerous film ever made,” he joked to the singer on her chat show.

“Nobody was wearing seatbelts,” the As Good As It Gets actor admitted, highlighting just how risky the production was. He added that they “didn’t have clearance on the highway” to drive with “billions of dollars of cargo,” a joke in reference to his star-studded co-stars.

Related: Aw Alert! The Awkwardly Flirtatious Way Steve Carell Charmed His Wife Nancy Is Too Cute

Asia, the all-star band, delivered a defining track of the 1980s with the hit song “Only Time Will Tell,” which continues to inspire generations of listeners.

The quartet, recognized as one of the "best supergroups" of all time, exploded onto the music scene after releasing its self-titled album.

Formed by John Wetton, a former member of King Crimson, Steve Howe of Yes, Geoff Downes of Yes and The Buggles and Carl Palmer of Emerson, Lake & Palmer, the band's first album became a commercial success after Billboard named it the No. 1 album in the U.S. for 1982. It also remained the band's best-selling record.

While some of their famous tracks include the lead single "Heat of the Moment" and "Sole Survivor," it was "Only Time Will Tell" that further established Asia as more than a “one-hit wonder” supergroup.

Supergroup Asia members Carl Palmer, John Wetton, Geoff Downes, Steve Howe.

David Tan/Shinko Music/Getty Images

It was their second single to enter the Billboard Hot 100 after "Heat of the Moment," which peaked at No. 17 and stayed on the chart for 14 weeks.

Moreover, the 1982 song received heavy rotation on MTV, boosting the band’s popularity.

Written by Wetton and Downes, the song was inspired by a personal heartbreak after Wetton lost the one he loved to another man.

Moreover, the lead vocalist also mentioned another iconic musician who influenced his songwriting style.

“‘Only Time Will Tell’ is about a relationship falling apart because of infidelity,” he mentioned in an interview as cited by Progarchy. “My complete change-around as far as lyric-writing came in 1971 when I had three records that I listened to all summer. One was Joni Mitchell’s Blue, the other one was What’s Going On by Marvin Gaye and the last one was Surf’s Up by The Beach Boys.

Forty-four years after its release, “Only Time Will Tell” still resonates with listeners.

@replaymusic___

Asia _ Only time will tell 1982 #musicaparatodos #musicalidade #thebestmusic #videoclip #videomusical #musicaanos80 #musicforever

♬ som original - Replay_music

On Reddit, fans continue to praise the track for its timeless charm, with many calling it one of the supergroup’s finest songs.

“Everybody loves “Heat of the Moment,” but I think “Only Time Will Tell” is my favorite of these guys. Great songwriting. The brightest ring around the moon will darken when I die!” one wrote.

“I remember when this came out. It was all over the radio. For whatever reason, the critics did not like this supergroup, but the fans loved them,” a commenter added.

“Total agreement. I adore this song,” a Reddit user wrote in response to a post about Asia's "Only Time Will Tell."

To this day, it remains one of the supergroup’s standout tracks despite the band's major lineup changes and hiatuses since forming in 1981.

Related: ’80s Rock Band, With Classic No. 1 Hit, Ranked Among 'Best Supergroups' of All Time

Dr. Trump is back at it again. But this time he’s not taking on liberal celebs with fake AI videos of himself helping them through TDS (a.k.a., Trump Derangement Syndrome). Instead, the President recently posted a meme targeting his own party.

Donald Trump isn’t holding back (and really, when does he ever?) in a new post on Truth Social. 

The commander-in-chief recently shared a ‘doctored’ photo of himself in a white lab coat, wearing a stethoscope, and holding a skeletal spine model. But that’s not all. 

The pic also features a word bubble with “You see this spine? This is what I want to put back in Republicans” inside.

This isn't the first time Trump has bashed members of his own party. In the past, he’s publicly criticized Republicans, saying, “We got some real losers, mostly great. But I wouldn’t use the name Romney because I’m in his territory. But I would never use that name. All right, I’ll use it. They don’t have a Mitt Romney that votes against everything.”

Trump continued, “They don’t have a Rand Paul that votes against everything. I got him elected twice. He was a stone-cold loser. I went to Kentucky, where I won by a lot. I did rally for him. And did another rally; he won. Then I went the second time, he won. And he votes against all the time. It’s just crazy; I don’t get it. And you have Lisa Murkowski, and you have Susan Collins, disasters.” 

He went on to say, “But it’s a shame. And we have some others, but not many. We have a great party.”

Even though Trump’s new Truth Social post is a clear call to his own party, it looks like he’s still busy slamming his liberal foes. At the recent White House Correspondents’ Dinner, the President roasted CNN’s Kaitlan Collins, saying, “I want to personally congratulate CNN’s Kaitlan Collins on receiving her award.” 

He continued, “It was all about me. It’s a fake. She shouldn’t get the award, it was a fake. But I didn’t mind. I said, ‘Kaitlan, congratulations.’ But it was a fake, there’s no question about it.”

Trump went on to compare Collins to trans actress Dylan Mulvaney in a bizarre dig: “I thought Kaitlan had really made it big with a major new sponsorship. But then I informed her that it wasn’t her on the Bud Light can, it was Dylan Mulvaney.” 

Along with Collins, Trump also took jabs at actress Rosie O’Donnell, saying, “But she’s one of the greatest sufferers of Trump Derangement Syndrome. She’s a sick young woman. Sick older woman, I guess now I have to say.”

The Odysseystar John Leguizamo is highlighting a film from his past that he believes more people should have seen.

To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar was met with mixed reviews and made less than $50 million at the box office. In recent years, it has earned a cult following with many appreciating how pioneering the movie about drag queens was.

The 1995 movie starred John Leguizamo, Wesley Snipes and Patrick Swayze as drag queens with opposing personalities who take a road trip between New York and LA to attend a pageant.

On the way to the drag pageant, the trio has a run-in with a homophobic cop, and after their car breaks down, end up stuck in a Midwestern town. The town doesn't realize they are drag queens and accepts them into their small community. Soon the group adds their own flair and brightens the lives of the inhabitants of this impoverished town.

Leguizamo believes the release of another film with similar themes stopped To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar from becoming the hit it should have been. “Priscilla, Queen of the Desert stole our thunder because it came out just before,” the Moulin Rouge! actor told Bustle in a recent interview.

The Australian film, which starred Hugo Weaving and Guy Pearce, also features a trio of drag queens on a road trip. “There was only room back then for one drag queen movie. We didn’t get the accolades that we deserved, I feel.”

“I think Patrick did an amazing job, and Wesley and I crushed it, too. And we took it seriously, and we really wanted to give these characters integrity,” he added, explaining how the actors went to a drag coach to perfect their performances.

“She was from the Bronx, and she was trying to help me do my accent correctly. And she taught me how to do it all right. I loved her, and I borrowed as much from her as I could,” the Ice Age voice actor said regarding his coach, Laritza Dumont.

Chi-Chi was written especially for Leguizamo, with the actor even embarking on a vegan diet to lose his muscles. “I got all soft and girly,” he wrote in his 2007 autobiography, per Attitude. “Little jelly rolls under my arms, round little tummy. Oh, I was cute.”

Why The Film Still Resonates With The LGBTQ+ Community Wesley Snipes, John Leguizamo and Patrick Swayze stand outside a run down building in a scene from the film 'To Wong Foo Thanks for Everything, Julie Newmar', 1995. (Photo by Universal/Getty Images)

While the film might not have been a box office smash, it still holds great importance with the LGBTQ+ community. “LGBTQ+ teenagers came up to me a lot and said that that movie gave them the courage to come out to their family," Leguizamo explained.

"That’s what you hope your work does: gives people a sense that they’re seen, that they’re important, that their lives matter. You know, that’s what you hope that you do with your work,” the Romeo + Juliet star explained.

In 2015, The Advocate wrote a piece about how revolutionary the movie was for the community, especially during the AIDS crisis. "I think of what it meant to make a movie about three out and proud gay men back in the mid-1990s," Mitch Kohn wrote.

"What it meant to have a major studio finance and release it. What it meant to have one of the preeminent men in the history of the film industry support it from day one, without any begging or convincing," Kohn added.

During a hectic workday, it's easy to feel like you're simply spinning your wheels. As your to-do list continues to grow, carving out time for focused work can become increasingly challenging, let alone finding time to brainstorm a bit. Still, career coaches say highly productive people always block off one specific hour every day to silence all the noise around them.

This critical hour is often called the "proactive strategy hour," and it's one of those time-blocking techniques that can help you reclaim a small portion of your day.

To better understand the benefits of a proactive strategy hour, Parade chatted with two career coaches and asked them to explain the difference between reactive versus proactive work. We also asked them to describe some of the many ways you can spend this blocked out time to reap the most benefits.

During our discussions, we were curious to know if career coaches have any calendar-blocking strategies to help you stay sane when your schedule is chaotic—whether at your job or in your personal life. Luckily, they share several time management skills for professionals who might be wondering how to prevent burnout at work.

If you've ever been curious to know more about the habits of highly productive people, you might just be tempted to emulate them after reading these tips from the pros.

Related: 6 Things Successful People Never, Ever Do at the Start of Their Day

The Secret Hour: Why Coaches Recommend the 'Proactive Strategy Hour'

If you've never heard of the proactive strategy hour before, it's pretty straightforward.

"The proactive strategy hour is a block of time that is protected and dedicated to brainstorming, strategizing, problem solving or thinking, rather than reacting to the items that have already landed on your plate through instant messaging, your inbox, phone calls and any other form of communication," Loren Margolis, an executive coach and a contributing author in Executive Coaching: Perspectives Across the Field, tells Parade. "I like to call it 'strategic thinking time.'"

She shares that the topic of a proactive strategy hour comes up often in her executive coaching sessions.

"The leaders with whom I work are pulled in so many directions—answering questions, putting out fires, attending meetings—that long-term planning and strategic thinking suffers," she states. "They work too much in the weeds. When your strategic thinking suffers, so does your organization's competitive edge."

Related: Here Are the Top Second-Act Career Change Ideas for Women at 40, According to Career Experts

The Psychology of 'Reactive' vs. 'Proactive' Work

When you log into your email first thing in the morning, you jump right into reactive mode and start addressing everything that requires your immediate attention. Margolis says reactive work is "driven by others," with examples including text messages, phone calls, emails and requests from team members.

"Unfortunately, reactive work tends to get rewarded more than strategy work because it is visible," Dr. Heather Maietta, a coach for career professionals, explains. "We see people attend meetings, answer messages and emails, put out fires, handle daily crises. Also, it is easier to feel productive completing reactive work since there’s a sense of immediate gratification."

On the other hand, proactive work is "driven by your judgment about what truly matters," per Margolis.

"The main difference is who sets the agenda. We are reactive when we answer an unplanned phone call. We are proactive when we plan and use thinking time," she shares.

Strategy work doesn’t always have immediate output, as Dr. Maietta notes, but "has the biggest long-term impact."

That's because the strategy hour gives you time to channel your peak cognitive energy to achieve your own goals.

Related: The 50 Best Remote, Work-At-Home Jobs You Can Get Right Now

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How To Implement the 'Strategy Hour' in a Busy Schedule

When you feel like you're drowning in work, it's easy to make excuses for why you don't have time to focus on forward-thinking matters. But the career coaches we spoke with say there are a few simple ways to incorporate a strategy hour into a busy schedule.

1. Set it in stone in your calendar

If you're ready to commit to a daily strategy hour, make it a nonnegotiable in your calendar.

"Literally place it as a repeating spot on your calendar with a reminder so you and others are aware of it," Margolis says.

2. Tell your colleagues how important it is

If you don't explain how a strategy hour fuels your productivity, your teammates have no way of understanding how it inevitably benefits them and the organization at large. And more often than not, they're likely to interrupt you during your quiet time.

"Some could see it as office hours where they can knock on your door and ask you questions, but it's not," Margolis says. "So, you need to clearly share that it's uninterrupted time."

3. Find the ideal spot to get your best work done

Where you physically spend your strategy hour can influence how much brainstorming you get done. If you're working in an area where you're bound to be interrupted during your strategy hour, find a spot where distractions are minimal.

"Environment might also be dictated by the type of work you want to complete," Dr. Maietta notes. "For example, I need a quiet space to write my weekly newsletter, but I can complete planning work at a coffee shop. If I am in problem-solving mode, a walk is ideal."

4. Plan ahead

Going into a strategy hour blind is never a good way to make the most of your one hour of focus time.

"You won't use that time or work at your highest level if you have nothing planned. So, plan the business questions that you'll answer, the problem that you'll solve, the idea that you'll brainstorm around," Margolis says. "Deliberately give yourself structure so this time serves you best. You can't rely on willpower alone. You must have something planned."

5. Strategically select the best time on your calendar

Dr. Maietta, who likes to refer to strategy hours as "tiger time," says there's no one-size-fits-all time for focus.

"Tiger time should be scheduled when your brain does its best work," she tells Parade. "For some people, this is at the start of the day. Others work better midday, and some people work best at night."

Related: Feeling Stuck in Life? Career Coaches Swear by This One Simple, Unexpected Question To Find Your Passion

Multitasking vs. Time Blocking: What the Data Says

Dr. Maietta describes time blocking as "a method of creating focused attention."

"So whether you call it strategy hour, white space or tiger time, you’re making a commitment on your calendar to perform deeper work," she says.

On the other hand, multitasking (aka task switching) is "counterproductive to time blocking."

"Every switch of task requires the brain to reconfigure goals and rules, creating measurable switching costs," the career coach shares.

Overall, she says multitasking "has its place in our work but should be minimized." 

Related: The 6 Best Things To Put On Your LinkedIn Profile, According to a Recruiter

Scripts for Defending Your Time When Your Boss Asks for a Meeting

You may manage your own calendar, but when your boss decides they want to host a meeting during your daily strategy hour, things can get a bit awkward. You may think you only have two options—agree to the meeting or push back—but Dr. Maietta says it's important to reframe the way you think about this conundrum.

"I do not think the goal is to convince your boss to respect your boundaries. It is to demonstrate that protecting uninterrupted time benefits the work itself," she states. "Pitch to your supervisor that you’ve found that when you have one uninterrupted hour each day, you make better decisions, complete complex work faster and reduce the amount of rework. Mention that you’d like to keep that block protected whenever possible."

She adds that it's important to tell your boss that you do better work with this setup; therefore, the organization reaps greater rewards.

Margolis also suggests reframing the conversation to say you're taking time for "risk reduction" and explaining how this "will benefit the department and your organization."

Of course, flexibility is also important, so be prepared to make compromises when necessary.

"If your strategy hour is daily at 9 a.m., and every Monday there is a standing meeting at 9 a.m., maybe your strategy hour is moved up or down an hour, or it is relocated to the afternoon," Dr. Maietta states. "The point is not to impose rigid constraints that are impossible to adhere to. Instead, commit to one hour per day of focused time. That hour might need to float from time to time, but it always exists nonetheless."

Up Next:

Related: I’ve Tried 9 Free ‘Productivity Apps’—Here Are the 2 That Surprised Me the Most

Sources:

• Dr. Heather Maietta is a coach for career professionals.
• Loren Margolis is an executive coach and a contributing author in Executive Coaching: Perspectives Across the Field.

When it came time for Emma Roberts to choose the designer for her wedding dress to actor Cody John, she knew it had to be famed bridal designer Monique Lhuillier. The American Horror Storystar and her actor beau married this weekend at a private residence in Idaho, in front of family and friends, including the actress' famous aunt, Julia Roberts.Vogue gave fashion lovers a preview of Emma Roberts' chiffon gown, leaving viewers stunned—and emotional.

Emma Roberts' Final Wedding Dress Fitting Left Friends in Tears @voguemagazine

Tears were flowing for the reveal of #EmmaRoberts custom Monique Lhuillier wedding gown. Ahead of her wedding to actor Cody John, #Vogue tagged along for her #FinalFitting at the bridal salon where she tried on her two looks for her family and friends. Tap the link to watch the full video.

♬ original sound - Vogue

Emma Roberts was accompanied to her final wedding dress fitting by her mother, Kate Cunningham, and a collection of her closest female friends. Vogueshared footage of the final fitting, revealing Emma's breathtaking Monique Lhuillier gown and archival party dress.

Made from off-white chiffon, Roberts' strapless, floor-length gown featured a detachable chiffon wrap, along with a cathedral-length veil that stylishly rested just below her eyes. The Scream Queens star left her mother and best friends speechless as she revealed her look, joking, "Are people actually crying?" as her friends became emotional during the dress reveal.

Fans React to Emma Roberts' Monique Lhuillier Wedding Dress

Social media followers were equally captivated by Roberts' Monique Lhuillier gown.

"That dress is so Emma Roberts, looks stunning," gushed one fan.

Another added, "Yes to the veil. It's very mysterious and editorial and I love, love, love it."

Not all viewers were fans of Roberts' dramatic veil.

"The veil/mask is absurd," wrote one viewer.

Another commented, "Love the dress, but I'm not feeling the veil/mask. I don't get it."

While Roberts' choice of veil divided the comment section, fans were overwhelmingly enamored with her wedding-day look.

Why Monique Lhuillier Remains One of Bridal Fashion's Biggest Names View this post on Instagram

Monique Lhuillier has long been one of the most influential names in bridal fashion. A custom wedding gown reflects months of collaboration between the designer and the bride to create a one-of-a-kind look that fully captures the bride's vision for her wedding day.

Emma Roberts' gown is classic Monique Lhuillier—luxurious, featuring delicate embroidery, elegant detailing, and the designer's signature romantic silhouette.

Related: Steve Jobs’ Daughter, 27, Stuns in Just-Released Wedding Photo: ‘Absolutely Radiant’

Celebrity Wedding Dresses Continue to Influence Bridal Fashion

Celebrity wedding dresses, fromKate Middleton's to Serena Williams', have long served as inspiration for future bridal trends. Silhouettes, necklines, fabrics, veils, accessories, and even color palettes often find their way into bridal collections after a high-profile wedding.

Emma Roberts' veil may have divided the comment section, but it could also inspire future brides looking to recreate her distinctive bridal style.

Related: The Most Expensive Celebrity Wedding Dresses, Ranked, After Taylor Swift's Wedding

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Kim Kardashian just shared a heartfelt post, wishing her grandmother, MJ Shannon, a happy heavenly birthday. Kris Jenner’s mom passed away on July 16, 2026. She would have turned 92 on July 26. 

The reality star/entrepreneur recently wrote on Instagram, “Happy Heavenly 92nd Birthday grandma! It’s only been a week but wow the amount of things I’ve learned about you this week from going through all of your stuff with mom has been beautiful!”

Kim continued, “I thought I knew it all! Makes me respect you and love you more if that’s even possible. Today we celebrate you! I miss you like crazy and I love you endlessly my sweet grandma MJ.” Kardashian also posted a series of sweet snapshots with her children, MJ, and Kris. 

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Fans, friends, and family flocked to Kim’s post, sending their love to the family: “It’s amazing how someone can spend a lifetime teaching us…and still have lessons waiting after they’re gone. That’s a beautiful legacy”, “You look genuinely happy and at peace in all of these photos. A true testament to the love your grandmother brought into your life,” and “She was so special. I’m sorry for your loss. She was so loved by all of you.”

The recent passing of MJ was a blow to the Kardashian-Jenner clan. On July 16, Kim shared (on Instagram) a gut-wrenching tribute to her late grandmother: “My sweet Grandma MJ, my best friend, my gossip buddy, my forever twin…You taught all of us the importance of family, and those values are something we’ll carry with us forever!”

View this post on Instagram

She also gave fans a deeper look into MJ’s background and how she impacted Kim’s entrepreneurial attitude, adding, “You were the woman who showed me what it meant to be a hardworking businesswoman. You gave me my very first job at your store in San Diego and taught me lessons about work ethic, strength, and confidence that I’ve carried with me ever since. You always believed in me, championed me, and were my safe place.”

Kardashian goes on to point out the special place her grandmother held, and will always hold: “You were truly the matriarch of our family, and your love is woven into all of us.”

Born Mary Jo Campbell, MJ grew up in Arkansas and later worked as a teen model. At 18, she married her first husband, her high school sweetheart. The marriage didn't last long, and MJ remarried in 1954. She had two daughters, Kris and her late sisterKaren Houghton, with Robert True Houghton. 

MJ divorced Houghton in 1962 and married again several years later. She remained married to her third husband, Harry Shannon, for 40 years. 

In 1980, MJ opened a children’s clothing boutique where, as Kim stated, she gave the eldest Kardashian sister her first job. 

Before her death in 2026, MJ survived colon and breast cancer. Despite her health issues, MJ remained a vibrant, independent woman who was loved by everyone around her.

Marvel fans were shocked and delighted when Industry actor David Jonsson was revealed as the new Black Panther at San Diego Comic-Con (SDCC) 2026.

Marvel Studios has admitted that they knew David Jonsson would appear in Black Panther 3 "five or six months" ago after director Ryan Coogler updated Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) head Kevin Feige on his casting decision.

Feige explained, per IGN, that the the studio was officially looking for an actor to play the son of the late Chadwick Boseman's character, T'Challa, when Coogler got in touch. The Sinners director had his own "secret meeting" with Jonsson and brought the idea of casting him to the studio.

"We hadn’t started a search yet. Ryan was working on Sinners, and when Ryan works on a project he’s all in. So the presumption very much was we would sit with him after Sinners came out, after the Academy campaign. We were waiting 'til after the Academy Awards to sit with Ryan and begin that process," Feirge explained to Empire.

"A month and a half or so before that process, he called me and said, 'I found him.' I said, 'What do you mean?' He goes, 'I found him. He's this guy, David Jonsson.' He mentioned his movies. I had seen some of them. I watched more. He goes, 'I'm going to meet him.'"

View this post on Instagram

Jonsson found fame starring in the first two seasons of HBO drama Industry. He later appeared in rom com Rye Lane, Alien: Romulus and Stephen King adaptation The Long Walk.

"A privilege, an honour," the 32-year-old wrote on Instagram after the announcement.

Little else is known about Black Panther 3 asides from Jonsson's casting. We also know that Denzel Washington will appear in the movie, but no details on his character has been released. We expect a time jump or something ontowards to have happened in Doomsday or Secret Wars as last time we saw T'Challa's son Toussaint he was a small child.

Black Panther III is scheduled to be released on December 15, 2028.

Tim McGraw's latest concert came with a surprise fans definitely didn't see coming. 

During the show on Friday, July 24, the country star welcomed a very special guest to the stage: his youngest daughter, Audrey McGraw. 

The appearance quickly became one of the night's most talked-about moments, with Audrey later revealing just how meaningful the experience was for her. Following the concert, the 24-year-old took to Instagram to reflect on sharing the stage with her dad while performing one of her mom Faith Hill's songs.

"I don’t have words to express the honor I [felt] to sing my mama’s song last night, and for it to be at dad’s show," Audrey wrote. "To be your daughter is an infinite gift. I love y’all so much, I am always so proud and so inspired by you. Thank you for sharing this crazy life with us. Proud to be a road dawg forever. ♾️."

View this post on Instagram

Alongside the message, Audrey shared a black-and-white video of herself belting out Hill's 2002 song "Stronger." She also posted several photos from the night, including one with Tim, writing, "LOVE YOU DAD!!! Jone’s Beach rocked! Thanks for having me out there. So proud of you. 🖤🪽✨."

“This brings up so much emotion. I love your mom and you’ve always had 'it' since you were like 6 and we were all doing karaoke in the Bahamas ❤️,” fellow singer Martina McBride wrote in the comments of the video.

Tom Hanks’ wife Rita Wilson wrote, “Oh Audrey. Mesmerized.”

Fans were equally as impressed, with one saying, “I need to hear her and mom sing together; it would be difficult to tell who’s who…. Both wonderful singers !!! So much soul!”

Another wrote, “She’s her mama’s daughter with a deep touch of Cher in her soul.”

READ MORE: Tim McGraw Reveals How Wife Faith Hill Saved His Career

Hill has largely stepped away from performing and public life. In 2025, Tim, 56, also revealed that the couple had both been dealing with significant health issues, sharing that Hill, 58, had undergone "five neck surgeries" as well as "a couple of hand surgeries." While she has never officially announced her retirement, she's made only a handful of public appearances in recent years, and has stayed off social media.

Meanwhile, Audrey continues to make a name for herself as a singer. Last year, she announced the release of her debut single, a cover of Neil Diamond's "I Am... I Said," explaining what drew her to the song. Tim couldn't have been more supportive, sharing the announcement on his own Instagram with the proud message, "Our baby girl’s first single! Out this Friday!"

Audrey is the youngest of Tim and Faith's three daughters. The couple, who married in 1996, are also parents to Gracie and Maggie McGraw.

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If there's one thing most homes aren't short on, it's wall space. Whether you live in an efficiency apartment or a multi-story house, you've got walls. Taking advantage of this space with shelving can add extra organization, and shelves with the right aesthetic can double as home decor. Acrylic shelves are a smart home storage solution that earns points for both their decorative appeal and usefulness. While they're super practical for storing items in any room, the transparent design lets your items take center stage, making them ideal for displaying books, plants, toiletries, decor, or collectibles. 

Right now, Walmart has a limited-time flash deal that slashes the price of the Sindcom 5-Pack Acrylic Floating Shelves by nearly 60%. Normally $32, the set is currently on sale for just $13, which means you can add five chic shelves to your home for less than $3 apiece. 

Sindcom 5-Pack Acrylic Floating Shelves, $13 (was $32) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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Each shelf measures 15 inches long and 4 inches deep and can support up to 9 pounds, making them ideal for organizing smaller items. You could use them to store toiletries in the bathroom, organize office supplies, display picture frames, or hold spices in the kitchen. They can be used individually or arranged in different configurations to fit your space. They’re also a great, lightweight option if you’re looking to display records, CDs, or other media without shelling out for specialized shelving.

The clear design blends seamlessly with a variety of decor styles, adding to the versatility of these shelves. When hung, they nearly disappear into the wall, which also allows any decor you might want to place on them to stand out.

Walmart shoppers have used these "versatile" floating shelves to organize bathrooms, nurseries, bedrooms, kitchens, and living rooms. Beyond their ability to tackle clutter, customers were impressed by the "sleek and cute" acrylic design, noting the durable, easy-to-clean construction and aesthetically pleasing appearance. "They actually look like glass," one reviewer raved.

Multiple shoppers also mentioned that the shelves are "easy to hang," taking less than five minutes each to install with the included hardware. 

Shop More Deals

• Yoobure 4-Tier Ladder Shelf, $36 (was $65) at Walmart
• Ophanie 2-Pack Wood Floating Shelves, $23 (was $45) at Walmart
• Best Office 4-Shelf Wire Shelving Unit, $39 (was $66) at Walmart

Related: Walmart's Freestanding Storage Cabinet Is an 'Elegant' Way to Declutter Kitchens and Entryways

Stylish, practical, and seriously affordable at just $13, the Sindcom 5-Pack Acrylic Floating Shelves is the organization upgrade you're going to wish you'd made sooner. Add the set to your Walmart cart now before this flash deal is gone! 

Don’t miss future deals!Sign up for Parade Picks to receive our commerce team’s curated selection of discounts and sales, twice a week.

Searching for healthier beverages doesn't always happen in the aisles of a large supermarket or specialty health food store. For millions of Americans, discount retailers like Dollar General are a convenient place to grab groceries, pantry staples and drinks while staying within budget.

Whether you're stopping in for a quick errand, stocking up between larger grocery trips or living in a rural community where Dollar General serves as one of the closest food retailers, the beverage aisle offers more choices than many shoppers might expect.

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The challenge is figuring out which options actually support your health goals. Colorful packaging, words like "natural," "lite," or "vitamin-enhanced," and celebrity-backed products can make almost every bottle look like a healthy choice.

However, a closer look at the nutrition label often tells a different story. Many beverages marketed as healthy are loaded with added sugars, while others provide meaningful nutrition, hydration or protein with very little added sugar.

Registered dietitian nutritionist Elizabeth Shaw, M.S., RDN, CPT, says shoppers should start by asking themselves what they want a beverage to accomplish before putting it into their cart. Instead of thinking of drinks as either "good" or "bad," she recommends viewing them as tools that serve different purposes, whether that's hydration, post-workout recovery, digestive health, or simply replacing sugary drinks with lower-sugar alternatives.

"I always encourage people to start by asking themselves one simple question: 'What job do I want this drink to do?' Not every beverage needs to serve the same purpose," Shaw explains. "The best beverage isn't the one with the trendiest label — it's the one that matches your goal."

With that advice in mind, we looked at Dollar General's current beverage selection alongside Shaw's expert recommendations to identify some of the healthiest drinks worth picking up on your next shopping trip.

What to Look for When Buying Drinks at Dollar General

Bloomberg / Getty Images

Hydration should be your first priority, according to Shaw. Water remains the gold standard, but she recognizes that not everyone enjoys drinking plain water all day. Low- or no-sugar flavored beverages can make it easier to stay hydrated without consuming unnecessary calories or added sugar.

"As a general rule, look for drinks with little to no added sugar and don't be swayed by long ingredient lists packed with vitamins, herbs or other compounds your body may not actually need," she says.

That doesn't mean every beverage containing calories or naturally occurring sugar should be avoided. Shaw points out that context matters. Drinks like 100 percent fruit juice provide naturally occurring nutrients and beneficial plant compounds called polyphenols, while beverages like prune juice have been extensively studied for digestive health benefits. Research has shown that polyphenol-rich beverages may support overall wellness, while prune juice has demonstrated benefits for people experiencing chronic constipation.

Instead of relying on front-of-package marketing claims, Shaw recommends checking the nutrition facts panel. Terms like "lite," "natural," or "made with real fruit" don't automatically mean a beverage is low in sugar. She recalls helping her father evaluate a "Lite" Arizona Arnold Palmer after discovering that the bottle contained two servings. Drinking the entire container meant consuming 33 grams of added sugar — nearly a full day's recommended limit for men according to the American Heart Association.

Ultimately, Shaw encourages shoppers to focus on beverages that align with their personal health goals, provide evidence-based benefits and fit comfortably within their budget.

Related: 4 Taco Bell Items You Should Skip, According to Dietitians

7 Best Drinks to Buy at Dollar General Right Now, According to a Dietitian1. Good2Grow 100% Juice, 6 Ounces, $3.25 at Dollar General

Dollar General

For families looking for a kid-friendly beverage, Shaw recommends Good2Grow 100 percent Juice.

"As a mom of two, 100 percent juice is a regular part of our grocery cart," she says. "It adds a fun touch to mealtimes while also providing nutrients found in fruit."

She emphasizes choosing products made with 100 percent fruit juice rather than juice drinks containing added sugars. Dollar General frequently carries good2grow at an affordable price, making it a budget-conscious option for parents.

2. Clover Valley 100% Prune Juice, 32 Ounces, $4.95 at Dollar General

Dollar General

Prune juice has earned a permanent place in Shaw's own kitchen. "Even though I consistently eat well above the recommended 25 to 38 grams of fiber per day, I still struggle with chronic constipation," she says. "Adding a small serving of 100 percent prune juice to my morning smoothie is an easy, evidence-based habit that helps support regularity."

Beyond digestive support, prune juice contains antioxidants known as polyphenols along with vitamins and minerals that contribute to overall wellness.

3. Muscle Milk Zero Sugar, 14 Ounces, $3.25 at Dollar General

Dollar General

Protein shakes can be a practical solution when preparing a balanced meal isn't realistic. "I always keep a few ready-to-drink protein shakes on hand for my husband," Shaw says. "Between work, family and squeezing in workouts, a balanced post-exercise meal isn't always realistic."

Muscle Milk Zero Sugar provides 25 grams of protein along with beneficial carbohydrates and other nutrients that support muscle recovery after exercise.

4. Clover Valley Natural Spring Water, 1.5 Liter, $1 at Dollar General

Dollar General

Sometimes the healthiest beverage is also the simplest. Shaw says bottled water remains one of the best choices for staying hydrated throughout the day.

"While I encourage clients to carry a reusable water bottle whenever possible, there are times when a recyclable bottled water is the more practical choice, especially if you won't have access to wash your bottle regularly," says Shaw.

Clover Valley Natural Spring Water offers an inexpensive option that makes meeting daily fluid needs easy without added sugars, calories or artificial ingredients.

5. Polar Raspberry Lime Seltzer Water, 1 Liter, $1 at Dollar General

Dollar General

For shoppers who want more flavor than plain water, Shaw recommends no-sugar-added flavored or unflavored seltzer water.

"Naturally flavored sparkling water is a great staple to keep on hand. If you're craving something with a little more flavor but want to avoid added sugars and unnecessary calories, it's a refreshing choice," Shaw says. "It also makes an excellent base for mocktails, adding fizz and flavor while helping you stay hydrated."

6. Gold Peak Unsweetened Black Tea, 18.5 Ounces, $2.35 at Dollar General

Dollar General

Tea offers more than hydration. According to Shaw, unsweetened black tea delivers antioxidants while providing a gentle energy boost. Gold Peak Unsweetened Black Tea contains approximately 31 milligrams of caffeine per 12-ounce serving without the added sugars commonly found in bottled tea drinks.

"Unsweetened tea is a staple in my home. Brewing your own with tea bags is an affordable everyday option, but for added convenience, a ready-to-drink unsweetened tea like Gold Peak Unsweetened Black Tea is a great choice to keep in the refrigerator," Shaw says.

For anyone looking for an afternoon pick-me-up without the sugar crash, it's a smart alternative to sweet tea or soda.

7. Stok Black Unsweetened Cold Brew Coffee, 48 Ounces, $5.95 at Dollar General

Dollar General

Many bottled coffee drinks contain significant amounts of added sugar and flavored syrups.

That's why Shaw recommends Stok Unsweetened Cold Brew Coffee instead. With a single ingredient and no added sugars, it's a healthier option for coffee drinkers who prefer to customize their own cup at home or drink it black.

"Choosing an unsweetened variety lets you customize your coffee with the milk or creamer of your choice while keeping added sugars and calories in check, or simply enjoy it black," suggests Shaw.

Bottom Line

dowell / Getty Images

Healthy beverage choices don't have to come from expensive grocery stores or trendy wellness brands. Shaw says the key is matching your drink to your needs instead of marketing claims.

Her advice is simple — don't let flashy packaging or celebrity endorsements make the decision for you.

Instead, prioritize beverages with little to no added sugar, choose options supported by scientific evidence and remember that affordable choices like water, unsweetened tea, 100 percent juice and seltzer water can all have a place in a balanced diet.

The best beverage "is the one you'll enjoy, can afford, and that supports your health goals," says Shaw.

Source

Elizabeth Shaw, M.S., RDN, CPT is a registered dietitian nutritionist, certified personal trainer, internationally based health journalist, and four-time cookbook author. As the founder of Shaw Simple Swaps, she translates the latest nutrition research into practical, evidence-based advice and healthy recipes. Shaw is a frequent contributor to national media outlets, helping consumers make informed, realistic choices about food and wellness.

Related: The 6 Healthiest Snacks To Buy at Dollar Tree Right Now, According to a Dietitian

The gang is back!

The cast of The Sandlot — including Patrick Renna, Tom Guiry, Chauncey Leopardi, Marty York, Brandon Quintin Adams, and Victor DiMattia — is back in the first official trailer for their upcoming comedy series.

Dugout Dads — produced by Renna's production company, Hambino Media — follows Renna's real-life experience coaching his son's baseball team.

The stars of the 1993 classic play competing coaches in the little leagues.

Renna, who played Hamilton "Ham" Porter in the coming-of-age film, pays tribute to his iconic character in the first trailer, which dropped on Sunday, July 26.

"When you're a kid, baseball is your life. Then one day, you and your friends go out to play for the very last time. Only nobody knew it," his character says in the trailer. "Well, I have news for you...That was not the last time."

The series, which also stars Boy Meets World alum Danielle Fishel and will stream on YouTube, was first announced in June.

"After years of coaching Little League, I've witnessed some truly epic meltdowns on the field, and it's always the adults (I'd be lying if I said it was never me). I just knew those experiences had to become a show," Renna told Deadline.

Dugout Dads premieres August 26.

Yes ended Going for the One, their 1977 album, with "Awaken." The track runs nearly 16 minutes, and many fans still call it a "masterpiece."

By August 1975, Yes had wrapped their tour in support of their seventh studio album, Relayer. The lineup at the time featured vocalist Jon Anderson, bassist Chris Squire, guitarist Steve Howe, drummer Alan White and keyboardist Patrick Moraz.

Afterward, the band took a break, but that didn't mean the music stopped. Each member worked on a solo album before the band reunited for the Solo Albums tour.

In October 1976, Yes had relocated to Montreux, Switzerland, where they began recording their next studio album at Mountain Studios. 

Two months into the recording process, Moraz was suddenly fired from the band. The decision came as a shock to him.

Anderson later explained that Moraz "just wasn't playing like he was involved," adding that his sound wasn't "too good, and that affected his vibe ... it was obvious that he just wasn't getting off on what we were doing."

However, Moraz said he left because of "the enormous psychological pressures at the time within the group." He added, "I felt there were a few things going on that I didn't know," and “unfortunately some people did not play the game fair."

The band soon turned to Rick Wakeman, who had left Yes in 1974 following disagreements over their album Tales from Topographic Oceans. Yes manager Brian Lane and business partner Alex Scott brought him back to contribute to Going for the One, initially as a session musician.

When he arrived in Switzerland, he was shocked by how much everyone had changed. "We began relating to each other for the first time. I think we had all grown up and became much more mature. Maybe I had to grow up more than them," he said, per Single of the Week.

As writing continued, the album began taking on a new sound. Most tracks leaned shorter, but "Awaken" became one of the band's most ambitious works.

The nearly sixteen-minute track started with a guitar riff Howe couldn't stop playing. Anderson kept hearing it through his hotel room door, and eventually started singing lyrics over it. 

“I teamed up with Steve Howe every time I could,” Anderson told Louder Sound, looking back on the songwriting process. 

“I remember very clearly, on the way to breakfast, hearing Steve play a guitar phrase in his room. I had breakfast and he was still playing it. So I opened the door and said: ‘Can you change the key there, Steve?’”

He continued, “So he did, and I started singing: ‘Workings of man set to ply out historical life, regaining the flower of the fruit of his tree…’ It just popped out.” 

When Going for the One was released, it became a hit, reaching No. 1 in the U.K. and No. 8 on the U.S. Billboard 200.

Fans today still discuss the album, and "Awaken's" role in its success. On Reddit, one user discussing the song wrote, "I think Awaken is, by most fans, considered a masterpiece."

“The last minute or so, especially Howe's guitar trill at the end... every time, it hits me so wistfully. I stop and close my eyes and dream for a moment,” another shared of their experience listening to the track.

“I'm a huge Yes fan, and Awaken easily remains my all-time favorite song of theirs. It showcases everything they do musically amazingly,” a third wrote, while another declared, “It is the best song of all time.”

Related: 1977 Rock Song, With 18-Year-Old Singer, Became a Timeless Underground Anthem

Kris Jenner is honoring her mother Mary Jo “MJ” Shannon on her first posthumous birthday.

“Today, we said goodbye to my beautiful Mommy MJ,” Jenner wrote in an Instagram post on Thursday, July 16. “There are no words that could ever capture what she has meant to me or the heartbreak of having to say goodbye. My mom was the heart of our family. She taught me everything that truly matters … to love your family fiercely, to be kind, to show up for the people you love, and to never take a single moment together for granted.”

“She taught us that family is everything. She showed us how to love unconditionally and how to find joy in the little moments,” Jenner continued. “She showed me how to face life’s challenges with resilience and faith. Mom, thank you for every sacrifice you made, every piece of wisdom you shared, and every moment you loved us so completely. I will miss our daily talks, your smile, your laughter."

A little over a week later on Sunday, July 26, Jenner celebrated what would've been MJ's 92nd birthday.

"Happy Heavenly Birthday Mommy. I love you. 🤍," Jenner wrote beneath a photo of MJ taken at her 91st birthday party at Los Angeles restaurant The Ivy in 2025.

Other photos in the carousel showed the family matriarch with Jenner, her grandchildren, and great-grandchildren at what was ultimately her last birthday celebration.

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RELATED: Kris Jenner Announces Death of Her Beloved Mother MJ In Emotional Instagram Post

MJ was a fan-favorite for viewers of The Kardashians, making numerous appearances on her family's reality shows over the years.

She was preceded in death by her daughter, Karen Houghton, and her husband, Harry Shannon.

“She’s frail,” Jenner said in a 2025 Kardashians confessional in regards to her mother's health. “Ever since my sister passed away, she’s been super sad.”

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An Officer and a Gentleman strolled into theaters on July 28, 1982, and brought with it a legendary soundtrack featuring gritty rock anthems, soaring romantic pop songs, and a moody instrumental score. But its best use of classic rock, according to Radio X, might come as a surprise. It’s not the massive, chart-topping duet courtesy of Joe Cocker and JenniferWarnes, “Up Where We Belong.” Instead, the outlet says it’s Dire Straits’ epic narrative-driven masterpiece, “Tunnel of Love.”

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“It's the moment when you know you're really on to something,” Mark Knopfler said about writing “Tunnel of Love.” “There's a certain part of the song that I call the breakdown, and when I got there I could feel the drums, the piano, all the things that I wanted all the instruments to do. When you get to that state, there's a strange sense of one thing following another, of elements falling into place quite naturally.”

Released in October 1980 as part of the album Making Movies, and a year later as a single in several countries but not the U.S., “Tunnel of Love” is as cinematic as the film it soundtracks. Blending storytelling with nostalgia and big guitars, it’s driven by seaside memories of an amusement park, a bittersweet encounter, and a sweeping musical arrangement.

It’s a fitting backdrop for one of the film’s most memorable early scenes, quietly underscoring the chemistry between the film’s two leads.

In An Officer and a Gentleman, “Tunnel of Love” plays on a jukebox in the background of a dimly lit casual local bar located near the navy base where the officer candidates go to hang out. Zach Mayo, played by Richard Gere, and Paula Pokrifki, played by Debra Winger, banter and flirt, with the atmospheric eight-minute track framing their budding romance.

The film was a box office smash, grossing $190 million worldwide and ranking as one of the highest-grossing films of 1982. The following year, the film, directed by Taylor Hackford and written by Douglas Day Stewart, was nominated for six Academy Awards, including BestActress and Best Writing. Louis Gossett Jr., who plays Sgt. Emil Foley, won Best Supporting Actor, with Jack Nitzsche, Buffy Sainte-Marie, and Will Jennings all winning Best Music.

The song was another success story, though it didn’t start that way. Following a modest showing on the U.K.’s charts when it was released as a single, it became a beloved fan-favorite epic over the years, with the hit film helping it reach even wider audiences.

According to Songfacts, “Tunnel of Love” is a semi-autobiographical composition written by Mark Knopfler. A reminiscent tale about the fairgrounds at the Spanish City in Whitley Bay, the song kicks off with a sample of “The Carousel Waltz” by Rodgers and Hammerstein.

“As a boy, Knopfler lived in Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, about 10 miles away,” Songfacts wrote. “The fair may have been what inspired him to pursue a musical career; he said once that it was the first place he heard rock 'n' roll played really loud. It would eventually close, but for a while ‘Tunnel of Love’ was its unofficial anthem.”

The amusement park may have closed, but with the film and the music video starring Leslie Ash, “Tunnel of Love” still shines.

Related: 1981 No. 1 Hit, Which Sparked a Years-Long Search for Its Mystery Woman, Became a Generational Anthem

Bewitched star Erin Murphy was once one of the most famous child stars in the world, but she's only gotten better with age.

The actress, 62, who was just a baby when she took on the role of Tabitha Stephens in Bewitched, played the tiny witch on the show from 1966 to 1972. The series followed beloved good witch Samantha Stevens (played by the legendary Elizabeth Montgomery) as she navigated life and motherhood alongside her non-witch husband, Darrin. Tabitha, with her blond hair and adorable looks, inherited the same sneaky witchcraft skills as her mother, to her father’s dismay. Hilarity ensued!

In a new car selfie, Murphy was dressed to the nines and "feeling fancy." Sporting a cream-colored gown and gold pearls, the blonde beauty made it clear that while she was adorable as a kid, she's downright stunning as an adult.

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Murphy Keeps Up With Fans on Social Media

Murphy loves to keep up with her fans and followers on social media. The dazzling blonde, who appears ageless at 62, posts updates on everything from her professional to family life.

View this post on Instagram A Potential Bewitched Reboot

One of the most common questions Murphy fields is whether she’d participate in a reboot of Bewitched.

“If they asked me to appear on the show, absolutely I would! I’d love to be included in some way, and I know fans of the original Bewitched would enjoy that fun reference to the past,” Murphy said in a recent interview with New Idea.

That may come in handy, because back in November, Deadline reported that an hourlong reimagining of the classic TV series was in development. A bit different from the original, the new series would follow Samantha and Darrin, who fall in love at first sight.

“But in order to be together, they’ll have to navigate their disapproving parents, walk a tightrope of cultural clashes, and bridge the divides between their families and worlds,” the description continued.

Until then, here’s a classic scene with Tabitha from the original series:

Related: ‘Bewitched’ Star Erin Murphy and Smashing Pumpkins Rocker Billy Corgan Are a Dynamic Duo

Before meal prep containers filled social media feeds and before every kitchen drawer held a mismatched collection of plastic tubs with mysterious missing lids, there was one name that seemed to own the world of food storage—Tupperware.

The story began in the 1940s when inventor Earl Tupper developed lightweight plastic containers with an airtight seal that kept food fresher for longer. The idea was clever, but there was one problem: people didn't understand how to use them. The famous "burp" seal required a little demonstration, and simply placing the containers on store shelves wasn't enough to convince shoppers. This conundrum is what started a marketing revolution.

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Instead of relying on department stores, Tupperware found its true home around coffee tables, kitchen islands and suburban living rooms. Friendly hosts invited neighbors over for games, snacks, laughter and what looked suspiciously like an ordinary social gathering. Somewhere between slices of cake and cups of coffee, colorful bowls and stackable containers would appear, followed by enthusiastic demonstrations that somehow made leftovers seem exciting.

By the 1970s, these gatherings had become a cultural phenomenon. Tupperware parties weren't just about buying kitchen containers—they became neighborhood events, networking opportunities and surprisingly powerful stepping stones for thousands of women looking to earn an income on their own terms. What appeared to be a simple sales party was actually changing lives, one colorful plastic bowl at a time.

Take a look back and learn the backstory of the Tupperware party and how it left its mark in history.

The Living Room Sales Pitch That Took Over Suburbia

FS / Getty Images

Throughout the 1970s, living rooms across suburban America turned into temporary showrooms. Friends and neighbors gathered in someone's home, chatted over punch and homemade cookies, and settled in for what felt more like a social get-together than a shopping event.

Then came the demonstration. Brightly colored bowls, pitchers and storage containers spread across the coffee table. Lids snapped into place with a satisfying seal. Bowls were stacked into towering displays. Containers were dropped to prove they could survive tumbles that would have shattered glass. People laughed, asked questions and started thinking about how much easier these containers could make everyday life.

That was the real genius of the Tupperware party. Instead of seeing products sitting on a store shelf, customers watched them being used in real life. The demonstration made the containers feel practical, and because the recommendation came from friends and neighbors rather than a salesperson, it felt genuine. Shopping became entertainment. Decades before influencer marketing, Tupperware had already figured out that people trust people they know.

The Real Reason: A Loophole for Women's Financial Independence

Fairfax Media Archives / Getty Images

The colorful bowls were only part of the story. During the 1970s, many married women still faced real barriers to financial independence. Traditional full-time careers weren't always practical or available, especially for mothers with young children. Flexible work was hard to find, and many households still expected women to handle most of the childcare and household responsibilities.

Tupperware parties offered another option. Women could schedule demonstrations around family life, earn commissions, and build a business without renting a storefront or making a large financial investment. Their customers were often friends, neighbors, coworkers and relatives, making it possible to build a business through relationships they already had.

For some consultants, the extra income helped pay the bills. For others, it grew into a full-time career with leadership opportunities, bonuses and recognition. Many earned enough to make a meaningful contribution to their household finances, while others gained a level of financial independence that hadn't seemed realistic before.

The money mattered, but it wasn't the only benefit. Hosting parties, speaking to groups, organizing schedules and managing sales gave many women valuable business experience at a time when traditional professional opportunities were still limited. The bowls stored leftovers, but the business itself gave many consultants something even more valuable—confidence and opportunity.

Related: The 9 Childhood Snacks You Grew Up Eating That Were Quietly Banned

The Indestructible Magic of '70s Plastic

Vince360 / Shutterstock.com

Part of Tupperware's appeal came from its almost legendary durability. Families passed containers down from one generation to the next, turning these pieces into heirlooms. Lids still sealed tightly after years of daily use. Bowls survived falls from countertops, family picnics, packed lunches, road trips and countless runs through the dishwasher.

The colors became part of the nostalgia too. Harvest gold, burnt orange, olive green and sunny yellow were the most popular hues at the time, and Tupperware leaned into that. They looked right at home in a 1970s kitchen. Opening a grandparent's cupboard today can still feel like opening a small time capsule.

People also loved telling stories about their collections. Almost everyone seemed to know someone who owned a bowl older than their youngest child or a pitcher that had somehow survived decades of daily use, multiple moves and more than a few accidental drops.

Over time, the containers became more than just plastic. They held birthday cakes, holiday leftovers, handwritten family recipes and ordinary meals that later became cherished memories. That's part of the reason vintage Tupperware still inspires so much nostalgia.

Why the Tupperware Party Eventually Died

Patrice PICOT / Getty Images

Like many cultural trends, the Tupperware party gradually faded as the world changed. Women gained access to a much wider range of career opportunities, making home party sales less appealing as one of the few flexible ways to earn income. Shopping habits changed too. Big box retailers made food storage containers easy to buy without waiting for an invitation to someone's house.

Into the early 2000s, online shopping changed everything. Consumers could compare products, read reviews and order new containers without leaving home. Social media replaced neighborhood gatherings as a way to discover products, and e-commerce gave companies entirely new ways to reach customers.

The social side of the parties faded as well. People's schedules became busier, making it harder to gather a room full of neighbors for an evening demonstration. Younger generations generally preferred convenience over hosted sales events, and direct-selling companies found themselves competing with endless online brands.

Even so, the Tupperware party left a lasting mark. Long before livestream shopping, affiliate marketing and social media influencers, Tupperware had already discovered a simple truth—people are more likely to buy something when the recommendation comes from someone they trust.

The products may have been plastic bowls, but the bigger story was always about community, entrepreneurship and creating opportunities for women where few existed. The parties have mostly disappeared, but their influence on sales, marketing and women's business history is still easy to see today.

Related: 7 Classic Grocery Brands That Quietly Disappeared—Do You Remember Them?

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As summer continues to heat up, many areas of the country have been experiencing scorching temperatures over the last few weeks. With no relief in sight, many Americans are looking for ways to stay cool as the mercury rises. Unfortunately, you can't spend every waking moment in a pool. However, you can cool yourself down with some lightweight, sweat-wicking clothes. On our quest to find the best cooling fabrics for hot weather, we consulted a celebrity stylist, and she told us the cooling fabric that should be a heatwave staple for women over 50.

Julie Matos has worked with Julianne Moore, Jane Lynch, Glenn Close, Sofía Vergara and a plethora of other celebrities throughout her career.

As a longtime stylist, Matos knows that finding summer clothes for women over 50 can be a challenge, and she's well-versed on the importance of finding breathable fabrics for hot flashes.

Stocking your closet with the best cooling clothes for menopause is important all year long, but it becomes even more critical for mature women when a heatwave rolls in. With that in mind, we asked Matos to explain why certain fabrics are best for cooling, and which ones are ideal for menopause. We also got her picks for the top three flattering silhouettes for women over 50 and the best cooling summer staples.

Related: 9 Best Plus-Size Summer Outfit Ideas, According to Celebrity Stylists

The Stylist's Secret: Why Cotton Is the Ultimate Cooling Fabric

When it comes to cooling fabrics, Matos says cotton is "almost impossible to beat" as the temperature climbs.

"It breathes beautifully, absorbs moisture and doesn't trap heat the way many synthetic fabrics do," she tells Parade.

While working with clients, she regularly shares a very sage piece of advice about clothing materials.

"I always recommend looking at the fabric before falling in love with the color or the trend. A crisp cotton poplin dress or an oversized cotton button-down will keep you cooler and usually looks more polished, too," she explains.

As she's matured, Matos has made a conscious decision to wear only natural fabrics, like cotton, when the heat rises.

"They simply feel better against your skin and make a huge difference during a heatwave," she states. "I just came back from Europe during the recent heatwave, and it reminded me why I always reach for natural fibers."

Related: I Tried 9 Lightweight Cardigans From Popular Brands and They’re Perfect for Summer Layering

The Science of Cooling: How Cotton Beats Menopause and Hot Flashes

Hot flashes are one of the more challenging aspects of menopause, especially during a heatwave. For this reason, Matos says the fabric of your clothing becomes even more important in the summer.

"When you're dealing with hot flashes, the last thing you want is clothing that traps heat," the celebrity stylist explains. "Cotton allows air to circulate naturally so your body can regulate its temperature more easily. It absorbs moisture, dries comfortably against your skin and never feels as stifling as synthetic fabrics."

Granted, cotton can't stop a hot flash. However, it can certainly make you feel a bit more comfortable while you ride the wave.

"The same goes for sleep. If you're dealing with night sweats, breathable cotton pajamas can make a noticeable difference," Matos shares. "I love Printfresh for their eco-friendly cotton and cotton silk pajamas. They're incredibly comfortable, and the colorful prints make bedtime feel a little more joyful."

Related: A Minimalist Carry-On Packing List for Women Over 60

Natural vs. Synthetic: Why You Should Ditch Polyester This Summer

Every fabric has its own set of benefits, but they're not all built the same. For instance, some are more breathable, while others feature better moisture-wicking properties.

Not sure which ones are best for summer? We asked Matos to compare four common fabrics so you can find the right one to help you navigate each and every heatwave.

FabricsBreathabilityMoisture-wickingStylist Verdict

Tencel/Lyocell

9/10

9/10

"Tencel is incredibly soft, lightweight and excellent at pulling moisture away from the skin. It's one of my favorite fabrics when you want something that feels a little more elevated," Matos says.

Linen

10/10

8/10

"Linen was made for hot weather. It lets your skin breathe, and honestly, I love that it wrinkles a little. It gives every outfit that effortless European feel," she shares.

Cotton

10/10

8/10

"Cotton is still my first recommendation because it simply works. It's breathable, comfortable, easy to care for and looks just as chic in a crisp poplin dress as it does in an oversized button-down," Matos explains.

Polyester

3/10

4/10

"Traditional polyester tends to trap heat, which is exactly what you don't want during the summer or if you're experiencing hot flashes. Performance athletic fabrics are the exception. But for everyday summer dressing, I'd almost always choose a natural fiber instead," she notes.

Related: ‘I Tried on 12 Baggy Jeans To Find the Best Styles—Here Are 9 I Loved and 3 To Skip’

What To Look For: 3 Flattering Silhouettes for Women Over 50

These flattering fits will keep you cool this summer.

1. Cotton shirt dress

Moritz Scholz/Getty Images

When it comes to summer-friendly wardrobe staples, a cotton shirt dress is a must-have for mature women, according to Matos.

"A crisp cotton shirt dress never goes out of style. It's polished enough for lunch, comfortable enough for sightseeing and easily transitions into dinner with a change of shoes," she tells Parade.

Shop the look:

• Lands' End Elbow Sleeve Eyelet Knee Length Shirt Dress ($64.97, originally $129.95)
• Kohl's Sonoma Goods For Life A-Line Midi Shirt Dress ($12.99, originally $39.99)

2. Wide-leg linen or cotton pants

Edward Berthelot/Getty Images

Whether you're not a fan of dresses or you simply like to switch up your wardrobe depending on your mood, wide-leg linen or cotton pants are a great summertime staple.

"A fluid wide-leg pant instantly feels elegant while giving your body room to breathe. It's one of the easiest ways to stay cool without sacrificing style," Matos says.

Shop the look:

• Ann Taylor Weekend Easy Fit Wide-Leg Pant in Linen Blend ($42-$62.50, originally $104.99-$129)
• Spanx EasyBreezy Cotton Linen Super Wide Leg Pant ($158)

3. Oversized cotton button-down

Edward Berthelot/Getty Images

Matos says she practically lives in oversized cotton shirts all summer.

"Throw one over a tank, wear it with shorts, pair it with linen pants or use it as a swimsuit cover-up," she states. "It's one of the hardest-working pieces in my wardrobe."

Shop the look:

• Marshalls Alexander Jordan Long Sleeve Stripe Shirt ($14, originally $16.99)
• Chico's No Iron Stretch Shirt ($89.50)

Related: I’m 5’3″ and Tried on 12 Dresses for Short Women—Here Are the 8 I’m Obsessed With and 4 To Skip

Where To Buy the Best Cotton Summer Staples

Ready to build a capsule wardrobe of cooling summer staples that you'll wear for years on end? Matos swears by these brands for quality cotton clothing.

1. J.Crew

Why it's stylist-approved: "J.Crew has always done classic cotton beautifully. Their poplin dresses, shirts and separates feel timeless instead of trendy," Matos says.

Summer picks worth trying:

• Mini Cerise Shirt-Dress ($116.50, originally $168)
• Étienne Oversized Shirt ($64.50-$114.99, originally $128)

2. Loft

Why it's stylist-approved:"Loft is a great option if you're looking for affordable summer staples. They do breathable cotton pieces that are easy to wear and easy to mix into an existing wardrobe," Matos says.

Summer picks worth trying:

• Open Stitch Flare Sleeve Sweater ($39.97, originally $79.95)
• Bubble Blouse ($21, regularly $69.95)

3. Everlane

Why it's stylist-approved: "If your style leans more minimalist, Everlane is a great option. Their cotton basics are beautifully made, modern and the kind of wardrobe staples you'll reach for year after year," Matos says.

Summer picks worth trying:

• Side-Panel Tailored Short ($69, originally $98)
• Seamed Open-Back Mini Dress ($83, originally $138)

Up Next:

Related: I Tested 13 White Sundresses for Summer—and Was Surprised by How Many Passed the Sheerness Test

Source:

• Julie Matos is a celebrity stylist who has worked with Julianne Moore, Jane Lynch, Glenn Close, Sofía Vergara and a plethora of other celebrities throughout her career.

Susanna Hoffs skyrocketed to fame in the '80s with the Bangles, and now she's found one of the key pieces of her legendary wardrobe.

The beloved rock star, 67, a founding member of the all-girl band, rose to music superstardom thanks to classic hits like “Walk Like an Egyptian” and “Manic Monday.” While she still occasionally performs, the beauty loves to engage with her followers on social media, too. But in a new video, Hoffs discovered the white bustier that she famously wore during several major public appearances during the '80s.

"I wore this @normakamali bustier on repeat in the 80’s when I was traveling the world playing music!!" Hoffs captioned the video, which flashed back to several big moments for the music star.

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Hoffs Loves to Dance It Out on Instagram

If there’s one thing Hoffs loves, it’s dancing it out on Instagram. In her latest dancing video, Hoffs wore all black as she showed off her moves while dancing around her house.

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Hoffs recently shared a video of herself dancing to the popular song “Coconut Water” by Trim. Looking gorgeous in a pink dress and a straw hat, Hoffs is aging like fine wine.

View this post on Instagram Hoffs Celebrated Her 67th Birthday

Hoffs recently took to Instagram to mark her 67th birthday. Bare-faced and beautiful, she sported a pink shirt with her brown hair sitting on her shoulders. The beloved singer embraced her age and shared some of the knowledge she’s gained through the years.

“Hello, my friends. Today is my birthday, and I feel nothing but gratitude. A little older, and a little wiser. And just oh so grateful,” Hoffs shared in the video, which included a hashtag that read “no makeup.”

View this post on Instagram Hoffs Re-recorded ‘Eternal Flame’

Last year, Hoffs released a new solo version of one of the Bangles’ most iconic songs.

“Here is a brand new recording of ‘Eternal Flame’ which I co-wrote in 1988 with my friends Billy Steinberg and Tom Kelly,” Hoffs wrote in a social media post. “I was inspired to sing it again! As I stood before the microphone, I fought back tears of gratitude for the opportunity to sing a song I have loved and cherished my entire adult life. We’ve grown up together!”

The singer continued, sharing how people continue to tell her how much the song means to them.

“I’ve been touched time and again by stories from friends and strangers alike who’ve expressed how much ‘Eternal Flame’ has meant to them, whether the song played as they walked down the aisle at their wedding, or brought consolation. I still wake up each morning, motivated to sing, to write, to make art, and to find ways to connect,” she noted. “I’m still that same girl with that same emotion—older, and hopefully wiser.”

Related: Bangles Music Legend Susanna Hoffs, 67, Is Ageless Without a Stitch of Makeup While Lying in Bed