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Before The Matrix, Speed, and the John Wick series would turn Keanu Reeves into an international action hero, he took on the role of a young slacker/punk boyfriend intended to provide comic relief in Parenthood and elevated the character into one of the most surprisingly heartwarming figures in Ron Howard’s beloved 1989 film. At the core of Reeves’ performance was his connection with Joaquin Phoenix’s Garry. When the adults couldn’t reach Garry, Tod could, a bond that stemmed from Reeves’ real-life connection to the younger brother of screen icon River Phoenix.

Keanu Reeves was just 24 years old when he took a goofy character and turned him into a model of emotional intelligence, offering a preview of the kind of depth he would bring to so many of his roles. His portrayal of Tod in Parenthood was a breakthrough for the actor, who had already appeared in Dangerous Liaisons, The River’s Edge, and other films. Reeves could be funny, silly, or serious, but he always brought a gentle sincerity to his performances. His work in Parenthood stood out at the time, and the role helped reveal the qualities that would eventually define him as a movie star. Even when he’s playing an action hero, he brings the heart and vulnerability of Tod to his performances.

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In Parenthood, Reeves played opposite Martha Plimpton, who portrayed his girlfriend, Julie. At the time, Plimpton and River Phoenix were dating, while Phoenix’s younger brother, Joaquin, played Julie’s younger brother, Garry, in the film.

Keanu Reeves and River Phoenix met while Plimpton was working on Parenthood, and their friendship would become one of the most memorable actor friendships of the early 1990s. Reeves and River Phoenix would go on to make Gus Van Sant’s My Own Private Idaho together, but the story of their friendship began with that chance connection surrounding Parenthood.

Related: ‘Dazed and Confused’ Star, 53, Who Played a High School Heartthrob, Still Looks ‘Beautiful’ 33 Years Later

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My Own Private Idaho became one of the most important independent films of the early 1990s, particularly because two young movie stars on the verge of mega-stardom willingly took on roles as street hustlers. The performances required significant vulnerability at a time when Hollywood often expected young male stars to protect a more traditional image.

The film also demonstrated that Reeves and Phoenix were interested in taking creative risks rather than simply following the paths Hollywood had begun laying out for them.

For Phoenix, the role of Mike Waters became one of the defining performances of his tragically short career. For Reeves, playing Scott Favor was another indication that there was much more to him than the goofy young characters that had first made him recognizable to audiences.

My Own Private Idaho became one of the many surprising paths Reeves would take throughout his career, and both Parenthood and My Own Private Idaho have endured as important pieces of his early filmography.

Two years after making My Own Private Idaho, River Phoenix died at the age of 23. He left behind a body of work that continues to influence actors and filmmakers, along with the lingering sense of what his career might have become had he lived.

Reeves went on to become one of Hollywood’s most enduring movie stars. While Phoenix’s career was cut tragically short, Reeves’ career has been defined by longevity and reinvention. He moved from independent films and comedies to major action movies, science fiction blockbusters, and eventually the John Wick franchise, continually finding new ways to surprise audiences.

But for a brief moment in the early 1990s, the two young actors were friends and colleagues, with a connection that would ultimately produce one of the most memorable films of their careers.

And it all began with a chance meeting surrounding one of the sweetest movies of the late 1980s, Parenthood.

Related: Belinda Carlisle Names Her ‘Absolute Favorite Songwriter in the World’

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“The Rhythm of the Night” hit airwaves in 1993, debuting in Italy first, before spreading its infectious melody across the globe.

The worldwide hit went on to define an entire era of dance music, even putting Eurodance on the map. 

Released by Italian Eurodance group Corona as the title track from their debut album of the same name, it was earworm material, keeping people moving and grooving with pulsing beats, rave synths, and a repetitive, thumping chorus.

It initially climbed the charts in Europe that year, hitting No. 1 in Italy for eight weeks, before making its debut everywhere else the following year in 1994.

It broke into the U.S. mainstream, impressively achieving the No. 11 spot in the Top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100, where it spent 27 weeks on the chart, further solidifying its global appeal. It also took home an award during BMI’s Pop Awards in 1996.

But its success extends far beyond chart achievements, as one of the defining dance anthems of the ‘90s, transcending language and cultures.

It’s been ranked among the best dance songs of all time by Rolling Stone and Billboard, at No. 68 and 34, respectively.

With its high energy, the song was made for packing dance floors, and the timeless sound made it a staple at parties, clubs and many throwback playlists that immediately evoke ‘90s nostalgia.

It’s been used in film soundtracks, including Claire Denis’ 1999 film Beau Travail, and remixed and sampled in modern songs, including by the Black Eyed Peas in their 2020 hit “RITMO” featuring J Balvin, as the lead single from Bad Boys for Life, starring Will Smith and Martin Lawrence.

The group’s frontwoman, Olga Souza, became the face of Corona; however, the song’s vocals were performed by Italian singer Giovanna Bersola (a.k.a. Jenny B), though she is not credited on the song and isn’t included in the music video. 

“It’s a beautiful thing, I’m happy to be in so many people’s hearts and beautiful memories about those years when they were going out and dancing. It’s a happy place for me,” Jenny told RNZ in 2021 of hearing the song and seeing its continued success decades later. 

“The studio was safe for me, it was no windows, just me and the music. It was a time when dance and euro house music was very prolific in Europe and I was living in Italy at the time, so I was singing three or four songs a day as a session voice,” she explains of the stage fight that kept her from receiving the credit, which she says gave her “the freedom to be absolutely no one.”

“The Rhythm of the Night” captured the rhythm of an entire decade, while keeping it alive for years to come. 

Earlier this week, Miley Cyrus, scratch that, just Miley, dropped her last name, announced a new album, and revealed two live performance dates at the Hollywood Bowl in October. 

While most of her fans applauded her new stage name, some weren’t sold on the change. And now her famous father, Billy Ray Cyrus, is jumping in to defend “just Miley.”

On Wednesday morning, the ‘Achy Breaky Heart’ singer posted a throwback pic on Instagram of himself, Miley, and son Braison, writing, “Family means more than ever now. I always called my little girl Miley. Just…Miley. Just like I always called my little boy Braison.”

He went on to reveal, “Bet you didn’t know…I was just CYRUS before Achy Breaky Heart came out in 92. All of my swag and T-shirts only read CYRUS SOME GAVE ALL with a picture of a POW MIA flag on it, and the words…’You are not forgotten.’”

Cyrus (Billy Ray, that is) continued, “I told @miley yesterday I felt good about her going with her first name. I mentioned Dolly and Cher. Thinkin about it more and more…Elvis…Prince…and so on. It’s a natural progression for an iconic superstar legend.”

What do Miley’s fans think of her dad’s explainer—and more importantly, the comparison between the 33-year-old singer/songwriter and the comparisons to some of the most legendary performers in music history?

One critic commented, “Sorry sir but Miley will never be close to being a legend like Dolly or Cher,” as another added, “I always know her by Miley Cyrus, why change now?”

Of course, others took a less cynical approach: “Billy Ray you are the icon. You are everything. We love Miley, we love you, we love the Cyrus family!! Don’t bring yourself down king”, “You’re the GOAT Billy Ray! Such a sweet message”, “Miley is legendary! Her life is unfolding with so much greatness and wow!! Her singing is always on key, whatever the genre may be. Little Miley is all grown up into a beautiful, talented, and kind person,” and a simply stated, “Love this.”

If you’re wondering whether the “Miley” name change is permanent or just for the release of her upcoming album, the single-named singer isn’t saying.

Birth date numerology and astrology may offer insight into your financial luck, abundance, money opportunities, and the potential for an unexpected financial windfall before summer 2026 is over.

Following nature’s rhythms, expert numerologists and astrologers decode the energetic signatures of each season, as they each reset the sky with different themes. In 2026, the sky delivers positive astrological alignments that could translate into financial windfalls. This is due to some planets working together, as well as some of the luckiest planets traveling in the signs where they are most powerful. 

But how do you know if you’ll benefit from these positive financial alignments? Since every birth date is ruled by a planet, the actions certain planets take this summer define the luckiest birth dates. Below is how and when these birth dates could experience a financial windfall before the September 22 Fall Equinox arrives. We’re following Venus (the planet of money), Jupiter (the planet of abundance), a potent New Moon, as well as the positive link between Jupiter and Saturn, the planet of manifestation. 

If you were born on these dates, you’re closing the Summer of 2026 on a high note. Your birth date is ruled by Venus—the planet of money—which is scheduled to travel in one of its strongest positions in the entire sky. Between August 6 and September 10, Venus gliding through the skies of Libra could translate into a boost in your finances. During these five weeks, money could flow easily without you needing to make a bigger effort. 

Professionally, you may meet passionate people who you could end up collaborating with—or that would introduce you to others who will extend that invitation. Between August 16 and August 26, Venus sitting across from retrograde Saturn in Aries could align with the return of a business relationship or contract you had considered finished or gone. 

If your birth date is ruled by Jupiter, the planet of abundance, you’ll be receiving cosmic financial support in two different ways. Between August 9 and August 22, you could receive an unexpected sum of money, coming from either a family member or someone who admires you. Alternatively, a mentor or someone in a position of authority could extend you an opportunity that translates into monetary gains down the road. 

Your financial luck is extended beyond the Summer, too. Between August 12 and September 17, as Jupiter forms the first of three supportive trines with Saturn, you may begin establishing a strong foundation for your financial future. A new project or job could be offered to you by a teacher, mentor, or authority figure who appreciates your creativity. Keep your eyes on future dates (April 3 and July 11, 2027) for future developments. 

If you were born on these dates, mark your calendar! The day you were born is ruled by Mercury, the cosmic messenger. The last New Moon of the Summer, arriving on September 10, carries powerful energies. Since New Moons represent new beginnings, this one carries a precise, creative, and passionate energy that is bound to energize you! On the days following September 10, you may initiate a project that is very close to your heart. This passion is set to unlock opportunities that eventually translate into financial success. 

This New Moon, happening in the zodiac sign of Virgo, is a time to color outside the lines, to dare to take big risks. There is a genius-like signature to it that inspires creativity and out-of-the-box thinking. Giving yourself time to brainstorm financial or business ideas on the days following this New Moon could translate into a financial power move. 

READ: The Timeless Classic Radio Song That Matches Your Personality, Based on Birth Month

If you were born on a date ruled by Saturn, the planet of time, you may be revisiting the past in more ways than one. As the Summer of 2026 comes to an end, Saturn is currently in its yearly retrograde phase, awakening themes around karmic adjustments. Between August 12 and September 17, as abundant Jupiter comes into a positive alignment with Saturn, you may receive a financial windfall. As with all things related to Saturn, this is not just luck finding you. It is the result of either past efforts and hard work or the consequences of a smart and strategic move. 

This may also be the first of three lucky financial breaks you experience. Your iconic ringed planet is scheduled to receive blessings from the planet of luck two more times—on April 3 and July 11, 2027. In other words, this Summer could unleash a series of positive financial events coming your way. 

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A vacation in Hawaii gave Dan Fogelberg the inspiration for what would become one of the most enduring love songs of his career.

Fogelberg wrote “Longer” while visiting the island of Maui, where the natural surroundings helped spark the ballad’s imagery of mountains, oceans, stars, and changing seasons. Released on his 1979 album Phoenix, the tender song became a major crossover success, climbing nearly to the top of the Billboard Hot 100.

By then, Fogelberg was already several albums into his career.

The Illinois-born singer-songwriter had established himself during the 1970s with a blend of folk, rock, and soft pop, scoring hits including “Part of the Plan” and “The Power of Gold,” his collaboration with Tim Weisberg. Phoenix, his sixth studio album, would push his commercial success even further.

“Longer” took shape during a trip away from that busy recording career.

“I was laying in a hammock on Maui, Hawaii, on vacation, in 1978, with my then-wife,” Fogelberg later recalled. “All seemed right with the world. The song seemed to write itself.”

Its lyrics use the natural world to measure a love that seemingly stretches beyond time itself, while the sparse arrangement keeps the focus on Fogelberg’s vocal and acoustic guitar.

A distinctive instrumental passage added another layer.

Jazz musician Jerry Hey played the flugelhorn solo, giving “Longer” one of its most recognizable musical moments. The understated production helped the song stand apart even during an era filled with polished romantic ballads.

Released as a single in late 1979, “Longer” became a major hit in early 1980.

The song reached No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100, spending two weeks there without ever claiming the top spot. At the time, it was Fogelberg’s highest-charting solo single.

His success continued throughout the early ’80s with songs including “Same Old Lang Syne,” “Hard to Say” and “Leader of the Band,” but “Longer” remained one of the recordings most closely associated with his romantic side.

“You know, a lot of people go through the hurricane and it drops you and you’re done,” he told Pause and Play. “Because I have survived, now I can continue my career as long as I want to, which is wonderful and rare in this business.”

Nearly five decades after a quiet moment in Hawaii inspired it, “Longer” continues to endure as a soft rock favorite.

“It’s just a classic love song,” Fogelberg said in a 1981 radio interview. “Every songwriter always dreams of writing a classic love song that will be up there with the Cole Porter songs and ‘Yesterday’ and that stuff. That’s the stuff that’s gonna last. People are gonna sing them at weddings and really mean it, for a long time, and that’s wonderful.”

It never quite reached No. 1 on the Hot 100, but its simple declaration of lasting love gave Fogelberg something arguably more durable: a song that has remained part of the romantic songbook for generations.

Related: 1973 Soft Rock Song, Originally Created in California, Is Still a Powerful Hit 52 Years Later

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Pumpkin decor is everywhere in September, but this one is a little more useful than most. Anthropologie’s Terrain Ceramic Pumpkin Planter doubles as seasonal decor and a home for your favorite indoor greenery, and it’s currently on sale for just $15, down from $20. It’s available in two colors, classic orange or blue, and comes in one 5-inch size.

The handmade planter is crafted from terracotta and measures 3 inches high by 5 inches across. It weighs just 1 pound and is designed for indoor use, so it’s compact enough for smaller plants without taking up much space. Anthropologie recommends wiping it clean with a dry cloth, and because each planter is handmade, there may be slight variations in appearance.

Courtesy of Anthropologie

Because it works as both a planter and seasonal decor, it’s an easy way to give something you already have a fall update. You could pop a small houseplant into it for the season, then switch it back to its usual pot once fall is over. And at $15, it’s also a relatively inexpensive way to get Anthropologie’s seasonal look, especially since decorative ceramic pumpkins and planters can easily cost more. 

One shopper said it’s a “classic,” calling it an “absolutely beautiful little pot” that can be used “year after year.” Another shared that it’s “so cute” and “perfect for a vining plant to cascade out,” while also appreciating its sturdy felt footers. Other shoppers described it as “perfect for fall” and “very pretty and nicely made.”

Related: Kohl’s ‘Cute and Sunny’ $22 Sunflower Rug Is an Easy Way to Warm Up Your Space for Fall

It can also stay out through Thanksgiving instead of getting packed away as soon as Halloween ends. The pumpkin shape feels autumnal without being spooky, while the terracotta finish gives it a warm, rustic look. And for just $15, it’s an easy seasonal update that can work in your home for most of fall.

• Molly Hatch Stoneware Halloween Dog Dessert Plate, $14 (was $20) at Anthropologie
• Ghost Ceramic Hurricane Candle Holder, $27 (was $38) at Anthropologie
• Halloween Frenchies Printed Coir Doormat, $34 (was $48) at Anthropologie

September is still early enough to get plenty of use out of seasonal pieces before fall really gets underway. Be sure to grab the Terrain Ceramic Pumpkin Planter at Anthropologie while it’s marked down from $20 and give one of your plants its own little pumpkin patch.

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.

Pillsbury is whipping up an early start to the fall season with an all-new baking kit that will spice up how fans enjoy the iconic flavors of autumn.

As trends like “summerween” still reign supreme and brands ditch their vibrant and bright summer flavors for warmer, cozier vibes earlier and earlier every year, we gotta give Pillsbury credit for at least holding off on the news of its fresh arrival until September.

On Wednesday, the cult-favorite ready-to-bake and boxed dessert mix brand revealed it has an all-new fall release available at some stores already: a Pumpkin Stuffed Cupcake Kit.

Pillsbury’s new Pumpkin Stuffed Cupcake Kit has big plans to upgrade how home bakers make cupcakes for fall birthdays, Halloween parties, and their Thanksgiving-related gatherings because instead of the classic cream cheese-iced pumpkin (or pumpkin spice) cupcakes, Pillsbury has a strategy to make the treats creamier than ever before: adding a sweet filling in the center, stuffed with extra cream cheese icing.

Related: Pillsbury Quietly Launches 4 New Treats—And Fans Are Already Obsessed

Pillsbury said its new Pumpkin Stuffed Cupcake Kit is inspired by the “strong seasonal excitement surrounding pumpkin flavors” and consumers’ “growing desire for easy, experiential baking activities at home.” Each box includes its Perfectly Pumpkin cake mix and Cream Cheese-flavored icing (both items are also returning to shelves as their own standalone products).

And unlike other at-home recipes, there’s no messy scooping of cream cheese required. Each 21.25-ounce box of Pillsbury’s Pumpkin Stuffed Cupcake Kit yields 24 cupcakes and all consumers need to do is add water, oil, eggs, and the filling from the cream cheese pouch (which we’re told bakes up perfectly right in the middle of the cupcake) to create warm, soft cupcakes with a sweet surprise inside.

Pillsbury

Pillsbury’s Pumpkin Stuffed Cupcake Kit is currently available at Target and Walmart stores, with a nationwide grocery store rollout happening this month (prices may vary).

What do you think of the kit? Do you hope this becomes a series with new flavors swapped out seasonally? Let us know in the comments!

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One of America’s wildest landscapes just stepped onto the world stage. The Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, a vast wetland stretching across southeastern Georgia and northeastern Florida, was officially added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in July 2026, making it Georgia’s first World Heritage Site and the United States’ 27th. It is also the first natural site in the U.S. to receive the designation in more than three decades.

The recognition is a big deal for a place that can still feel like one of America’s best-kept secrets.

“In a country full of cautionary tales and habitats lost, the swamp is a rare example of where we got it right,” Christian Hunt, Director of National Wildlife Refuges and Parks Program at Defenders of Wildlife who has long defended the refuge, told National Geographic. “We don’t need to spend billions restoring this place. We don’t need to restore what was lost. We need only protect it as it is today. The World Heritage inscription is a critical step toward that end.”

The Okefenokee protects one of the world’s largest and most intact subtropical freshwater peatlands, a landscape of blackwater channels, wetlands, forests, and open prairies shaped over thousands of years by water, fire, vegetation, and wildlife. UNESCO says the property is home to at least 856 plant species, 48 mammal species, 238 bird species, 39 fish species, and 90 reptile and amphibian species. Its peat deposits also provide critical carbon storage and an archive of the region’s environmental history.

And yes, you can visit it.

There are three primary gateways to the swamp—and its 70 forested islands encompassing Georgia’s Charlton, Ware, and Clinch counties and parts of northeast Florida—each offering a different experience. After all, it covers over 438,000 acres across the Georgia-Florida border. The swamp is located within just a 40-minute drive from Jacksonville International Airport, making it easily accessible for travelers flying from other states, as well.

The Suwannee Canal Recreation Area near Folkston, Georgia, is the main entrance and a good starting point for first-time visitors. Here, travelers can stop at the Richard S. Bolt Visitor Center, walk the Chesser Island Boardwalk, visit the historic Chesser Island Homestead, and take a guided boat tour into the swamp. Canoe and kayak rentals are also available.

There’s also Okefenokee Swamp Park near Waycross, a nonprofit attraction with boardwalks, interpretive exhibits, train tours, boat rides, and more. It’s another accessible way to experience the ecosystem, particularly for families.

For a more immersive experience, head to Stephen C. Foster State Park near Fargo, Georgia, on the western side of the refuge. Visitors can rent canoes and motorboats, join guided boat tours, and explore trails and waterways around places such as Billy’s Lake and Billy’s Island. The park is also an International Dark Sky (IDA) Park, making it an especially appealing overnight stop for travelers who want to see the Milky Way after dark.

“Stephen C. Foster’s accomplishment is a big win for the American Southeast,” IDA Executive Director J. Scott Feierabend shared in an IDA statement. “Given that such little natural darkness remains in the eastern United States, we are especially pleased to make [the] announcement.”

Travelers don’t have to sleep in the swamp to experience it. Folkston and Waycross are the main towns visitors use as bases, with lodging and dining options nearby.

But for travelers who want the full wilderness experience, Stephen C. Foster State Park offers cabins, tent campsites, and RV sites. There are also designated overnight campsites within the refuge itself, including wooden platforms accessible only by canoe or kayak. Overnight stays require a wilderness camping permit, and conditions can affect which trails and campsites are open.

During the day, visitors can paddle through the blackwater wilderness, look for alligators and birds, hike, take guided boat tours, explore historic sites, and simply experience the unusual quiet of one of the South’s most intact ecosystems.

The refuge currently welcomes roughly 800,000 visitors a year, according to the Georgia Recorder, and the new UNESCO designation could bring even more travelers. A 2024 Conservation Fund report, cited by the Georgia Recorder, finds that annual visitation could reach as many as 1.6 million by 2035.

That makes now an especially interesting time to see the Okefenokee—before its new status turns this once-under-the-radar Southern wilderness into a much bigger tourist draw.

Remember “Buddy,” the bright orange unicorn and star of that classic children’s show that brought joy and life lessons into your living room?

OK, in reality it was Barney, but there’s a new indie movie playing in theaters that urges viewers to buy into a different 1990s kids’ program — and it feels shockingly similar to the purple dinosaur’s.

Starring Keegan-Michael Key as the titular unicorn, Buddy takes audiences inside a colorful world where children spend their days singing, dancing and helping the show’s star spread happiness. But when one child refuses to play along, Buddy is not pleased — and cracks begin to appear in this seemingly perfect world…

How’s that for a daunting premise? For those not yet familiar, check out the film’s official trailer below.

Given that Buddy’s world feels eerily similar to Barney’s, the actor who voices everyone’s purple dinosaur recently hit the cinemas to see the new movie. Dean Wendt even took to social media this week to share with fans his honest — and surprising — thoughts on the hard R-rated scary movie. (Just because it’s a movie about kids, that doesn’t mean it was made for kids.)

“I loved it. I thought it was hilarious,” Wendt, 58, said in his Instagram reel on Tuesday, September 1. “I thought it was fun. There were so many things about it that reminded me of being back on set [of Barney].”

Fans have since flooded the comments section of Wendt’s post to share their similar sentiments — and love for real-life Barney. “I watched it too as of today and really enjoyed it! I was hoping Barney would show up and show that mean unicorn how to be caring!” said one Instagram user, while another person commented, “Thank you so much! It’s great to hear your thoughts. Love is key to the world, after all.”

It’s frustrating when you make the effort to eat nourishing foods only to experience some pretty unpleasant gastrointestinal symptoms later. 

For example, you might have made a conscious effort to eat more fiber-rich foods, only to feel completely bloated shortly after eating your lunchtime salad. This can happen when someone increases their fiber too quickly, which can overwhelm the digestive system. It’s more effective to increase fiber slowly, which gives the digestive system a chance to adapt.

Related: Here’s What People Actually Mean When They Talk About ‘Gut Health’ 

That’s not the only healthy habit that can be tough on digestion, though. According to two gastroenterologists we talked to, there’s one food in particular that many people think is healthy, but is actually tough on digestion and can negatively impact the gut microbiome. Here, they explain what it is and what to eat instead. 

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Dr. Savita Srivastava, MD, a Yale-trained gastroenterologist and microbiome specialist, says that there’s one food that’s commonly referred to as healthy and that she herself ate almost every single day for nearly a decade, but has now ditched completely: protein bars. 

“While marketed as the ultimate healthy, convenient snack, many of these bars have hidden ingredients that wreak havoc on the gut,” Dr. Srivastava says. She explains that there are several reasons why protein bars can be tough on digestion. One is that instead of intact dietary fibers from real whole foods, protein bars are packed with added, highly fermentable isolated fibers, like inulin.

Related: Eat Your Way to a Healthier Gut—Here’s What You Need to Know About Gut Health and Diet

“When inulin hits the large intestine, gut bacteria ferment it extremely rapidly. This produces a sudden volume of gas, often leading to sharp abdominal pain and severe bloating—especially in people who aren’t used to high fiber intake,” she explains.

On top of that, Dr. Srivastava says that protein bars often contain sugar alcohols and artificial sweeteners. “Ingredients like erythritol, xylitol, sorbitol or maltitol are poorly absorbed in the small intestine. They draw water into the intestines, leading to loose stools, while simultaneously being fermented by colonic microbes, leading to more gas and bloating,” she tells Parade.

The protein source itself can be problematic too. Dr. Srivastava says that concentrated whey or soy isolates can be heavy and slow to empty from the stomach, particularly when paired with binding gums like xanthan or guar gum, leading to a prolonged feeling of fullness or heavy nausea.

Dr. Neelima Reddy, MD, a gastroenterologist at Gastroenterology Associates, agrees that ultra-processed foods like protein bars can be tough on digestion. She explains that packaged foods—especially ones that make health claims like protein bars—are typically not as healthy as whole foods because they have been processed to remove some nutrients to prolong shelf life. While whole foods contain different nutrients that work together to support health, Dr. Reddy says that ultra-processed foods don’t work this way. 

Related: ‘I’m a Registered Dietitian—This Is What I Do Every Day For My Gut Health’

Maybe, like Dr. Srivastava once did, you eat protein bars all the time. What is a gut-friendly alternative you can eat instead? Both Dr. Srivastava and Dr. Reddy recommend focusing on whole food sources of protein—or at least look for protein bars that contain these types of ingredients. 

“Look for bars that derive their protein naturally from whole-food sources—like hemp seeds, pumpkin seeds, egg whites or nut butters rather than concentrated whey or soy protein isolates. Whole-food proteins come packaged with natural co-factors and healthy fats, making them far more gentle on the stomach and less likely to cause heavy, prolonged nausea or sluggish digestion,” Dr. Srivastava tells Parade.

She says that the same rule applies to fiber.

“Choose bars where the fiber comes from real, intact whole foods, like oats, nuts, seeds and dates, rather than added, highly fermentable isolated fibers such as ‘chicory root fiber,’ ‘inulin,’ or ‘soluble corn fiber,’” she suggests.

Even better is choosing these types of ingredients themselves rather than in bar form. For example, a handful of nuts or seeds paired with fruit, dark chocolate or roasted chickpeas, if you’re in the mood for something savory.

Loretta Harvey, PA-C, a gastroenterology physician’s assistant at Penn State Health, shares that another common reason for experiencing digestive distress is due to poorly absorbable carbohydrates called FODMAPs. Harvey explains that FODMAP stands for fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides and polyols and includes the following:

• Fructans (found in wheat, onion, garlic and inulin)
• Galactans (found in beans, lentils and legumes such as soy)
• Fructose (found in certain fruits, honey and high fructose corn syrup)
• Lactose (found in dairy)
• Polyols (found in sweeteners containing sorbitol, mannitol, xylitol and maltitol, and stone fruits such as avocados, apricots, cherries, nectarines, peaches and plums)

“High FODMAP foods can often produce either gas or osmotic water shifts, resulting in bloating, abdominal distention, gas, belching, reflux, abdominal cramping and diarrhea,” Harvey says. She explains that FODMAPs can be found in many healthy foods, including certain fruits and vegetables.

While avoiding foods with FODMAPs can relieve symptoms, it’s not recommended to avoid eating FODMAP foods long-term because so many of them are healthy. Because of this, it’s best to work with a gastroenterologist to pinpoint the root cause of your digestive symptoms and work toward slowly introducing FODMAP foods back into your diet so you don’t have to avoid them forever.

In fact, any time digestive symptoms are disrupting your life, it’s important to meet with a gastroenterologist. Together, you can find the root cause and treat it accordingly. 

Sometimes, digestive distress is caused by ingredients that can irritate the gut, like sugar alcohols and sweeteners that can be found in protein bars. Other times, it’s something deeper that deserves attention from a medical professional. 

Up Next:

Related: Here’s Exactly What Happens to Your Gut Health When You Eat Bananas 

• Dr. Savita Srivastava, MD, Yale-trained gastroenterologist and microbiome specialist.
• Dr. Neelima Reddy, MD, gastroenterologist at Gastroenterology Associates.
• Loretta Harvey, PA-C, gastroenterology physician’s assistant at Penn State Health.

In 1969, Harry Belafonte covered a Bob Dylan song that was created as a powerful tune about love and loneliness, telling the story of a man who feels lost because his partner is away; he can’t bear to wait another day to reunite.

Written in 1962 by a 21-year-old Dylan as he yearned for his then-girlfriend, Suze Rotolo, to return home while she was studying abroad in Italy, it was covered by other artists before ever even being released by the King of Folk Music himself. Most famously, Elvis Presley put his own spin on the tune in 1966, which Dylan called one of his favorite cover versions of his work, according to Rolling Stone. “That’s the one recording I treasure the most,” the crooner said, per the outlet.

Belafonte’s twist on the tune, however, added jazzy, soulful swing to the folk track, and was included on his 1969 studio album Homeward Bound, among other releases on the project like “If I Were a Carpenter,” “Suzanne,” “Don’t Talk Now,” “Sad Heart,” “The Last Time I Saw Her,” “Softly,” “Suzanne,” “Little Bird,” and “The Dolphin.”

Related: 1969 Hit Ranked the No. 2 ‘Greatest Bob Dylan Cover’ of All Time

“If today was not an endless highway / I today was not a crooked trail / If tomorrow wasn’t such a long time / Then lonesome would mean nothing to you at all / I can’t see my reflection in the waters / I can’t speak the sounds that show no pain / I can’t hear the echo of my footsteps / Or can’t remember the sound of my own name,” the lyrics express, per Genius.

In the comments section of the YouTube video, fans celebrated the cover. One person wrote, “Well I was certain Elvis Presley recorded the best version of this fabulous tune of melancholic love but Harry Belafonte takes it too another beautiful contemplative level of serenity.”

Dylan’s own first recording wasn’t released until 1971 on the compilation Bob Dylan’s Greatest Hits Vol. II. Over the decades, “Tomorrow Is a Long Time” has been covered countless times by artists including The Kingston Trio (1991), Judy Collins (1965), Odetta (1965), Ian & Sylvia (1963), Nickel Creek (2005), and more.

Next, 1964 Hit, Written in 10 Minutes in a Coffee Shop, Ranked Among the ‘Greatest Bob Dylan Covers’ of All Time

A 1973 rock song written for a James Bond film became much more than a movie theme. Paul McCartney and Wings’ “Live and Let Die” grew into a lasting rock classic, helped by its major chart success, repeated live performances, and a popular 1991 cover by Guns N’ Roses.

Written for the eighth James Bond film, Live and Let Die, the song was released in 1973 as the first Bond theme performed by a rock band. The movie also marked Roger Moore’s first appearance as James Bond.

More than five decades later, “Live and Let Die” remains closely linked to both McCartney’s solo career and the James Bond franchise. Its popularity also crossed generations when Guns N’ Roses recorded a hard-rock version for their 1991 album Use Your Illusion I.

Photo by Michael Putland/Getty Images)

The song’s journey began when Bond producers Harry Saltzman and Albert R. Broccoli asked McCartney to write the title song. The producers contacted him even before the movie’s screenplay was finished and sent him a copy of Ian Fleming’s novel.

McCartney read the book and worked on a way to turn its title into a song. He later explained that the title was a play on the familiar phrase “live and let live.” That idea became the basis for lyrics about how a person can change as life moves forward.

Denny Seiwell, the original drummer of Wings, remembered seeing McCartney create the song. According to Seiwell, McCartney sat at the piano after reading the book and began working around the words “James Bond.” He said McCartney had the song written within 10 minutes.

The song was recorded by Wings during sessions for Red Rose Speedway in October 1972 at AIR Studios. George Martin, who had produced much of The Beatles’ work, produced the recording and arranged the orchestra.

“Live and Let Die” stood out from earlier Bond themes because it brought a powerful rock sound to the franchise. The recording moved between quieter sections and explosive instrumental passages, with Martin’s orchestration helping create its dramatic sound.

McCartney had initially been asked to write a song that could be performed by another singer. However, he agreed to the project on the condition that Wings would perform the song.

There was some uncertainty over who would sing it. Harry Saltzman had considered other singers, including Thelma Houston. According to American Songwriter, Roger Moore said Saltzman was unsure about the recording when he first heard the demo and asked Martin, “who are we going to get to sing it?”

Martin pointed out that McCartney himself had just performed the song.

A second version by B. J. Arnau also appeared in the film, but the Wings recording became the better-known version and the one most strongly associated with the title.

The song became the most successful James Bond theme up to that point. It reached No. 9 on the UK Singles Chart.

The song also received major awards attention. It became the first James Bond theme nominated for the Academy Award for Best Original Song. According to Songfacts, it ultimately lost to “The Way We Were,” but “Live and Let Die” won the Grammy for Best Arrangement Accompanying Vocalist(s) in 1974, credited to Wings and George Martin.

The song’s story did not end in the 1970s.

In 1991, Guns N’ Roses recorded their own version of “Live and Let Die” for Use Your Illusion I. The cover introduced the song to another generation of rock listeners and became one of the band’s popular recordings.

Shannon Hoon of Blind Melon provided backing vocals on the Guns N’ Roses version. The cover was later nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Hard Rock Performance.

That recording helped turn “Live and Let Die” into a generational rock song. The original had already connected Paul McCartney’s post-Beatles career with one of cinema’s biggest franchises. The Guns N’ Roses version then gave the song a new life during the rise of 1990s hard rock.

Its reach continued beyond music charts. The Guns N’ Roses version appeared in the 1997 film Grosse Pointe Blank, while the original song was used in other movies and later appeared in Shrek the Third.

“Live and Let Die” also remained a major part of McCartney’s live shows. Wings performed it during their concert tours, and McCartney continued performing it during his solo tours, often using pyrotechnics during the instrumental breaks. The song was also performed by McCartney at the 2005 Super Bowl halftime show.

From a song written quickly after McCartney read an Ian Fleming novel to a Bond classic covered by one of the biggest hard-rock bands of the 1990s, “Live and Let Die” has continued to move from one generation of listeners to another.

Related: 1973 Classic Rock Song, Written on an Airplane in Mexico, Is Still a Powerful Hit 53 Years Later

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It’s about to be that wonderful but awkward time of year when you’re freezing in the morning but sweating bullets by 1 p.m. Dressing appropriately during the summer-to-fall transition is always a gamble, which is why layers are key. This way, you can add and remove ’em as needed. Old Navy understands the struggle and just dropped so many cute fall pieces that are perfect for the seasonal shift. Just take a look at this denim vest.

Old Navy’s Zip-Front Utility Vest is a super cute layering piece, perfect for transitioning from summer to fall. The charcoal gray color makes it easy to style with a variety of colors. You can style this vest over a long-sleeved or short-sleeved tee, a dress or a tank top. It all just depends on the kind of look you are trying to achieve. You can also just wear it on its own during hot days.

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Old Navy

This vest has a relaxed fit and features a flattering scoop neck, a full-zip front and two patch pockets, giving it a modern vibe that looks super fresh and stylish. It comes in inclusive regular sizes that range from XS to 4X. For petite sizes, these range from XS to XL. For tall sizes, these range from S to XXL.

This vest is made out of 95 percent cotton and five percent recycled cotton, making it super breathable and comfortable to wear.

Related: Get Ready for Apple Picking With Old Navy’s Perfect Summer-to-Fall Transition Dress

Overall, customers love this denim vest, with most reviews on OldNavy.com being five stars. Some OldNavy.com reviews noted that the vest runs a bit small, so keep this in mind when picking your size. Otherwise, shoppers are super happy with their purchase.

“Cute and versatile,” said one fan in a five-star review on Old Navy’s website. “Vest is so cute by itself or layered with another top. Hits right at my hip bones and is loose in shape, but still feels fitted and not too oversized.”

You can find this denim vest at select Old Navy stores and on OldNavy.com. It is currently on sale, marked down to $18.99.

Related: Old Navy’s Pretty Chiffon Top Is Giving Stevie Nicks Vibes

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Whether you’re a book lover, trinket collector, or plant parent, you know how precious storage space is. Your most prized possessions deserve to be properly shown off, and your windowsill or kitchen island just won’t do. Instead of piling your books on your nightstand or cramming all your plants onto one shelf, you could invest in a bookcase or display cabinet.

If your living space doesn’t have much room for a large storage unit but you have a ton of items that are currently sprawled all around your home, this Hiphuta 14-Cube Bookcase at Walmart is a great solution. Shoppers noted that it’s “perfect for small spaces” and called it a “space-saving gem.” Right now, you can score it on sale for a limited time with a flash deal. Normally retailing for $126, it’s currently marked down to just $80! 

Courtesy of Walmart

Sleek and simple, this bookcase has clean lines and a neutral white hue. It’ll complement the rest of your furniture and decor, effortlessly blending in wherever you place it, whether you keep it in your living room, bedroom, bathroom, or kitchen.

Featuring 14 cube-shaped compartments, this bookcase provides a plethora of storage options to help streamline your home. The separate cubes ensure that all your items are properly sorted and organized so you can find everything easily. 

You can use these shelves to display an extensive book collection, your plant babies, curated decor pieces, and trinkets. Alternatively, you can store clothes, accessories, linens, and bedding in this bookcase to relieve overcrowded closets and cabinets. 

• Homfa 7-Tier Bookcase, From $85 (was $140) at Walmart
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Designed for compact spaces, the cubes are split into two columns with seven shelves each. The bookcase builds up, taking advantage of vertical space rather than spanning across the floor. For size reference, it measures 19.6 inches wide, 9.3 inches deep, and 71 inches tall. 

Each cube measures 9.3 inches wide and deep, offering plenty of space for all your belongings. The top shelf and bottom two shelves of both columns are adjustable between three heights, allowing you to store items of various sizes to minimize the amount of unused space. You can also remove the shelves if you need more space for taller items. 

This bookcase is made of particle board and medium-density fiberboard (MDF), and shoppers raved about its top-notch quality, noting that it felt “very sturdy” and durable. Many reviewers also commented that it was easy to assemble. After putting this bookcase together, you can install the anti-tip kit to secure it to the wall if you want additional stability for peace of mind. 

Related: Walmart’s ‘Beautiful’ Farmhouse Sideboard Offers ‘Spacious Storage’ and ‘Makes a Perfect Coffee Bar’

If you want a storage solution to declutter your living space without taking up too much real estate, be sure to snag the Hiphuta 14-Cube Bookcase at Walmart while it’s on sale for just $80! 

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If you recently purchased Horizon brand chocolate milk, it’s time to break out your (reading) glasses and either a carton or the package it came in, as the company is recalling select varieties.

According to a statement shared on Horizon’s website, the voluntary recall is limited to two multipack products sold at various retailers in the United States and is a direct result of customer complaints about products they purchased that were “unpleasant” in one way or another. Some consumers reported product packaging that “appeared bloated and contents that may be subject to premature spoilage and may have an unpleasant taste, odor, and/or texture.”

While a full investigation is still underway to determine the cause of the issue (and whether it could be related to the packaging issue that prompted a separate recall earlier this year), Horizon has identified the affected chocolate milk products as part of its shelf-stable boxed chocolate milk line.

As of the Aug. 7 post, Horizon described the impacted products as limited to its shelf-stable 1 percent chocolate milk sold in the United States as 12 or 18-pack varieties of 8-ounce cartons.

Related: Every Food the FDA Recalled in August: Eggs, Lettuce, Rice & More

The specific UPC and best before/by dates for the products subject to Horizon’s voluntary recall are below:

• 12-pack (UPC 742365002700) — Best Before/By: 28 JAN 2027; 30 JAN 2027; 31 JAN 2027; 01 FEB 2027; 02 FEB 2027; 03 FEB 2027
• 18-pack (UPC 742365208867) — Best Before/By: 31 JAN 2027; 01 FEB 2027; 02 FEB 2027

Horizon

While it doesn’t appear there have been any reports of illness associated with the impacted products, the company is alerting those who may be in possession of them to discard the chocolate milk, keep their proof of purchase, and contact one of their consumer relations specialists at 1-888-494-3020 to learn more about the recall and refund eligibility.

Next: Recall Issued for Candy Sold at Marshalls, TJ Maxx, Homegoods

Years before Terry Jacks took “Seasons in the Sun” to No. 1, he tried to make the melancholy song work with one of California’s most famous bands.

In 1970, Jacks produced a recording of “Seasons in the Sun” for The Beach Boys, but the group ultimately abandoned the track. Jacks later returned to the song himself, recording the version that became a worldwide smash in 1974 and the defining hit of his solo career.

The song’s history stretched back even further.

“Seasons in the Sun” was adapted from “Le Moribond,” a French-language song by Belgian singer-songwriter Jacques Brel. American poet and songwriter Rod McKuen subsequently wrote English lyrics, and The Kingston Trio recorded an early English-language version in 1963.

Jacks encountered the song before launching his solo career. The Canadian musician had found success with The Poppy Family, the group he formed with his then-wife, Susan Jacks, but his involvement with The Beach Boys gave “Seasons in the Sun” an unexpected detour.

“A really good friend of mine died, he had acute leukemia,” Jacks told Songfacts. “He was gone in four months. He was a very good friend of mine, one of my best friends, and he said I was the first one that he told. I remembered this song of an old man dying of a broken heart, and I liked some of the melody and there was something there. I rewrote the song about him and how he said goodbye to his friend and then he said goodbye to his father instead of his priest, and then he said goodbye to his girlfriend.” 

In the summer of 1970, Jacks produced The Beach Boys as they attempted the song during sessions in California. The recording was left unfinished and remained unreleased for decades, eventually surfacing on the band’s 2021 archival collection Feel Flows.

Jacks wasn’t ready to leave the song behind.

He recorded his own rendition in Vancouver in 1973, altering the material and surrounding its farewell lyrics with a bright, almost deceptively cheerful arrangement.

“I felt it when I sang it,” he said in an interview with The Early Edition. “It was kind of a first take. I could relate to a lot of it through things that had happened to me in my life and friends.”

Jacks initially released it through his own Goldfish Records, before the single received wider distribution.

The decision changed his career.

“Seasons in the Sun” reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in March 1974 and remained there for three weeks. It also topped charts in Canada and the U.K., while Billboard ultimately ranked it as the No. 2 song of 1974. Despite releasing other successful records in his native Canada, Jacks never again approached its level of American success.

Fifty-two years later, “Seasons in the Sun” remains inseparable from Terry Jacks. Yet one of the decade’s most recognizable soft rock hits might have sounded very different: its path to No. 1 began years earlier, when Jacks brought the song into the studio with The Beach Boys in California.

Related: 1974 Soft Rock Song, Written in a London Home, Became a Major One-Hit Wonder

In 1964, The Rolling Stones scored their first No. 1 hit with “It’s All Over Now.” Sixty-two years later, the rock legends are suddenly back on the charts, and they’re doing it on three at once.

The band’s 2002 compilation Forty Licks has re-entered the Billboard 200 at No. 62 this week. The career-spanning collection has also returned to the Top Rock Albums chart at No. 15 and the Top Rock & Alternative Albums chart at No. 17.

The resurgence is undoubtedly because the Stones just announced a new limited edition 4LP coloured vinyl set. It is on sale now for $72.98 and ships on Sept. 7.

The latest showing adds to an already impressive chart history for Forty Licks, which has now spent 51 weeks on the Billboard 200, three weeks on Top Rock Albums and three weeks on Top Rock & Alternative Albums. It has also logged 18 weeks on the Canadian Albums chart, bringing its cumulative total across the four charts to 75 weeks.

The Stones’ story stretches back considerably further than Forty Licks. According to “The Rolling Stone Encyclopedia of Rock & Roll,” the band released its first single, a cover of Chuck Berry’s “Come On,” in June 1963. “Not Fade Away” became their first U.S. charting single the following year.

Then came “It’s All Over Now.”

Written by Bobby Womack and his sister-in-law Shirley Womack, the song had first been recorded by The Valentinos before the Stones released their version in 1964. It became the band’s first No. 1 in the U.K., beginning a run of hits that would soon include “The Last Time” and “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction.”

More than six decades later, the group’s stature has only grown. Billboard ranked the Stones No. 2 on its list of the Greatest Rock Bands of All Time, behind only The Beatles, while Mick Jagger took the top spot on the publication’s ranking of the Greatest Rock Lead Singers of All Time.

Billboard credited Jagger’s voice, image, moves and enduring charisma, arguing that the singer continues to personify both the Stones and rock ‘n’ roll itself.

“[T]he enduring trio of Mick Jagger, Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood, with their ace touring musicians, carry on a legacy rooted in American blues, unforgettable riffs, classic hits and the enduring charisma of rock’s greatest frontman. The Rolling Stones have set the standard against which every rock ‘n’ roll band has since been measured,” wrote Billboard.

Related: One of Rock’s Most Famous Muses Turns 70 Today

Released in 2002 to mark the band’s 40th anniversary, Forty Licks was more significant than the average greatest-hits collection.

Following the Stones’ acrimonious split with former manager Allen Klein in 1970, control of their catalog had been divided. Their earlier recordings remained under Klein’s control, while the Stones controlled the music they recorded afterward. That meant previous retrospectives generally covered one era or the other.

By the early 2000s, those barriers had been overcome, allowing Forty Licks to combine music from across the band’s career for the first time. Its 40 tracks stretched from “Street Fighting Man,” “Gimme Shelter” and “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” to “Start Me Up,” “Miss You” and “Beast of Burden.” Four new songs were included as well.

The collection was a major success, peaking at No. 2 on the Billboard 200 and eventually earning a 4x platinum certification in the United States.

Critics liked it, too. Entertainment Weekly awarded Forty Licks an A-minus, calling it a well-sequenced and relatively comprehensive collection despite questioning how much of the material longtime fans didn’t already own.

Rolling Stone went even further, awarding the collection five stars and praising both its pacing and its four then-new songs, writing, “For their anniversary collection, the Stones pack forty songs onto two CDs … and they still leave you hungry for more. The selection is daring … The pacing is brilliant … the music here is full of danger and surprise.”

Nearly 24 years after Forty Licks arrived, and 62 years after “It’s All Over Now” gave the Stones their first No. 1, they’re still adding new chapters to one of rock’s longest chart histories.

Related: 1969 Landmark Album, Called the ‘Greatest Mic Drop in Pop Music History,’ Is Back on the Charts 57 Years Later for The Beatles

Whitney Leavitt is one proud wife.

Following the news that her husband, Conner Leavitt, is joining Dancing with the Stars for Season 35, she took to Instagram with a sweet carousel of photos and a message congratulating her partner.

“@leavitt.conner is on @dancingwiththestars !!!!!!!” she wrote. “In our 10 years of marriage, this is the longest Conner & I have ever been away from each other. Such a bittersweet night celebrating someone who means so much to us.”

Whitney, who was a semifinalist during the ballroom dance competition show’s Season 34, when she was partnered with Mark Ballas, went on to share how she and their three kids are ready to cheer Conner on.

“So excited for this next adventure & we’re so excited for everything that’s ahead of you!!!” she said. “Wishing you nothing but happiness, success, and amazing new memories! Now go shake some a$$!!! You’re already our mirrorball winner.”

He’ll be partnered with dancer Adele Zaikman, who clinched her spot as a new pro after winning the first season of Dancing with the Stars: Next Pro.

On Good Morning America on Tuesday, where the full cast — which we now know includes Giada De Laurentiis, Jenna Dewan, and Julia Stiles — was officially announced, Conner reflected on how he’s looking forward to his time on the ballroom floor after seeing it all from the sidelines.

“Having this opportunity now, I’m just honored and so excited,” he said, while sitting next to Zaikman. “I saw firsthand how special this experience can be and I’m just so happy to be here.”

Related: ‘Dancing with the Stars’ Season 35 Cast Revealed: Giada De Laurentiis, Jenna Dewan and Julia Stiles to Compete

Conner’s announcement follows rumors that he was going to be joining the show, following a cryptic post shared by he and Whitney a few weeks ago.

Conner first became known as Whitney’s husband when she starred on Hulu’s Secret Lives of Mormon Wives. But now he, like his wife, who starred in Broadway’s Chicago: The Musical this year, has broken out of the reality TV world and into performing arts with his own Off-Broadway role earlier this year. The couple also launched their own production company this year, Leavitt Media House.

Other confirmed stars include Brooks Nader‘s sister Sarah Jane Nader, and Olympian Amber Glenn and The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air star Tatyana Ali. 

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Entourage creator Doug Ellin is firing back at actress Debi Mazar after she claimed it was a “toxic” environment on the set of the HBO series after she returned from giving birth.

The actress, 62, rose to stardom in films like Batman Forever and Goodfellas, followed by TV shows like Entourage and Younger. On Entourage, she played Shauna Roberts, the sassy publicist of Adrian Grenier‘s movie star character Vincent Chase. But in a new interview, Mazar made it clear that she didn’t feel so welcome on the Entourage set when she returned from giving birth to her second daughter. Instead, she felt judged.

While Mazar made her feelings clear about the situation, Ellin fired back on Twitter/X, stating that he didn’t believe it was possible.

“My thoughts are this is disgusting. Never, ever did myself or anyone that matters care or discuss Debi Mazar’s body. I would one million percent embrace any woman who got pregnant. The only bodies on the show I ever commented on were Adrian’s ( I wanted him more muscular) and @jerryferrara, who I wanted fatter. I will forever feel bad about that because I didn’t realize the health implications at the time and now couldnt be happier for Jerry’s transformation,” Ellin wrote, noting that Jerry Ferrara, who played Turtle, has since dropped around 40 pounds.

In a follow-up, Ellin replied to someone who questioned his statements and said he’s still close with many women who starred on the show.

“Fu. It wasn’t. And you can ask 99 percent of the women who were on it, who are still good friends to this day,” he wrote.

Take a look at Ellin’s tweets below:

My thoughts are this is disgusting. Never, ever did myself or anyone that matters care or discuss Debi Mazar’s body. I would one million percent embrace any woman who got pregnant. The only bodies on the show I ever commented on were Adrian’s ( I wanted him more muscular) and… https://t.co/wMRgqXzChi

Fu. It wasn’t. And you can ask 99 percent of the women who were on it, who are still good friends to this day. https://t.co/G1roTmVUk9

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Mazar said that in the first season, appearing on the hit HBO show was a “joy-fest,” she told the UK’s Times. However, that didn’t last. The star shared that after giving birth for the second time, the vibe changed on set. “They didn’t like that I got fat, even though I got skinny again,” she said.

“In the third season, the set was a testosterone-fueled environment,” Mazar told the Times. “I’m tough, but it got toxic towards the end for me.” She noted that being on the show was “a lot of fun, until it wasn’t,” she said.

Fox News reached out to HBO for a comment.

Despite the bad environment, Mazar did return to appear in the 2015 movie version of Entourage.

Related: Debi Mazar Reveals the ‘Toxic’ Reality of Her Entourage Days After Giving Birth to Her Second Daughter

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Office bags don’t have to be dull or predictable. Modern work accessories can be just as stylish and expressive as the rest of your wardrobe. Nowadays, bags often combine function and flair, turning everyday routines into something a little more fun.

Walmart’s latest sensation, the Gocvo Retro Corduroy Floral Tote, is here to flip the script on your everyday carryall. With 19 colors and patterns available and a price tag that’s just as cheerful ($13, down from $20), this bag is already earning its reputation as the “perfect office bag.”

Courtesy of Walmart

From beige wildflowers to pink bows and cherries to checkerboard print, you’ll find a tote that matches your vibe. The bag’s pockets-a-plenty exterior feels both vintage and modern, bringing classic corduroy together with a fun twist you rarely see in workwear. The result is a bag that earns compliments in the elevator and sparks a little joy at your desk.

This bag’s multi-pockets make it downright practical for busy days. The spacious 20-by-14.5-inch design means you can fit your laptop, a magazine, cosmetics, snacks, a water bottle, and even a change of clothes if you’re heading out after work. 

Courtesy of Walmart

Three exterior pockets, including two gusseted side pockets, mean you never have to dig for your keys or badge. The corduroy material is soft but sturdy, and upgraded stitching means you do not have to stress about overpacking for your Monday marathon.

One shopper called it “lovely, roomy, and sturdy,” with “good quality fabric for the price and a gorgeous design.” They added that it’s “roomy enough for multiple uses, whether an overnight tote, a craft storage bag, diaper bag, or even a fun purse.”

Other shoppers loved this bag for its versatility. This is the rare bag that looks just as good with a sundress as it does with a power blazer or even with gym shorts on a last-minute grocery run. It is popular with teachers, students, office workers, and travelers alike. 

“It’s the perfect size for work because I can fit my binders in it,” a reviewer stated. “The handles are also big enough to throw it on your shoulder even when you are wearing a coat or layers. It has plenty of pockets to keep things separated, and it is very sturdy.”

• Gocvo Overnight Bag $19 (was $26) at Walmart
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Related: Amazon’s $20 Linen Button-Down Tank Is the Perfect ‘Lightweight’ Summer Travel Companion

Whether you are looking for a gift, a new work bag, or a little upgrade for your daily routine, the Gocvo Retro Corduroy Floral Tote is proof that practical can be playful. At just $13, you may even end up wanting more than one. Matching your bag to your mood is always a good idea!

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