Parade

Pasta salad is a staple at summer cookouts, potlucks, picnics and backyard barbecues. It's easy to make, feeds a crowd and can be prepared ahead of time, making it one of the most popular side dishes of the season. Yet, despite its popularity, pasta salad also has a reputation for being a bit of a dice throw. Some versions can be bright, flavorful and packed with texture, while others end up dry, bland or weighed down by too much mayo-based dressing.

Part of the challenge is that pasta salad behaves differently than most pasta dishes. Unlike hot pasta that's served immediately, pasta salad continues to change after it's made. The noodles absorb dressing as they sit, vegetables release moisture and flavors can mellow in the refrigerator. A bowl that tastes perfectly balanced when it's first mixed together can taste completely different a few hours later.

Fortunately, according to a professional chef we spoke with, a few simple techniques can make a dramatic difference. From choosing the right pasta shape to building layers of texture and flavor, some small adjustments can help transform a humdrum pasta salad into a standout side dish.

One step in particular can have an especially big impact. It's a surprisingly simple trick, but one that can help keep pasta salad flavorful from the first bite to the last. Read on to learn how to make pasta salad a standout this season.

Related: The Italian Way To Make Pasta Salad 10x Better

How To Make Pasta Salad 10x Better, According to a Chef

Few things are more disappointing than a pasta salad that starts out flavorful but ends up dry and underwhelming by the time guests are ready to eat. That's a common problem with make-ahead dishes, especially during summer cookouts, where salads often sit for hours before they're served.

One of the biggest reasons is that pasta continues absorbing liquid after it's cooked, which can leave a once-perfectly dressed salad tasting bland and dry by the time guests actually start filling their plates.

Courtesy Jim Hoffman

According to Adrienne Grenier, Executive Chef at Burlock Coast in Fort Lauderdale's Ritz-Carlton, one of the easiest techniques to build more flavor into pasta salad is to start dressing it while the pasta is still warm.

Then, just before serving, dress it a second time.

As the warm pasta sits, it absorbs much of the original dressing. "The result is a dry salad," Grenier tells Parade. "Dressing it again at the end keeps it fresh and nicely coated."

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Courtesy Jim Hoffman

4 Other Chef-Approved Tips for Pasta Salad

While dressing pasta salad twice may be the most impactful tip, it's far from the only technique Grenier recommends.

1. Shape makes a difference

Choosing the right pasta shape is a good place to start. Shapes with ridges, twists or curves tend to hold onto dressing better than smooth noodles. Rotini, cavatappi, fusilli and farfalle are all popular choices because they create more surface area for flavor.

In the end, though, it comes down to personal preference.

According to Grenier, "A pasta salad can be any shape. If you like spaghetti, make it with spaghetti." Her favorite pasta shape for salads is radiatori because she says it "holds dressing well, and I like it saucy."

2. Go beyond al dente

Texture is another important consideration. While hot pasta dishes are typically cooked to a firm al dente texture, Grenier recommends taking pasta salad slightly beyond that point.

"You don’t want to leave it too al dente as you would if you were finishing it in a hot sauce," she says. Unlike a hot sauce, which continues cooking the pasta, a cold dressing quickly halts the cooking process. As a result, pasta that seems perfectly al dente when drained may end up feeling too firm once chilled.

Related: The Simple Chef Trick That Will Make Your Pasta 10x Better (Exclusive)

3. Double up on herbs

Herbs can also make a significant difference. Fresh basil, parsley, dill, mint and chives help brighten the dish and add freshness that balances richer ingredients. But don't limit yourself to fresh herbs alone. "All the herbs!" Grenier says. "Definitely fresh, but also add dried herbs."

While dried herbs can help build flavor throughout the salad, fresh herbs are best added with the second dressing shortly before serving to preserve their color and aroma.

4. Add Acid

Acidity is equally important for balancing flavors. Whether it comes from vinegar, lemon juice, pickled vegetables or brine, a touch of acid can help cut through richer ingredients and keep pasta salad from tasting heavy.

Used thoughtfully, it can brighten the entire dish and make the other flavors taste more vibrant.

4 Common Mistakes To Avoid

Even experienced home cooks can make mistakes that prevent pasta salad from reaching its full potential. Learn how to remedy the common pasta salad mistakes below.

Courtesy Jim Hoffman

1. Skipping the salt in your pasta water

One of the most common mistakes when it comes to pasta is underseasoning the pasta water. Pasta itself contains very little flavor, so properly salted water helps season the noodles from the inside out. If the pasta starts out bland, it's difficult to fully correct later.

2. Not adding dressing correctly

Another mistake is using all of the dressing at once. While the salad may look perfectly dressed initially, much of that liquid will be absorbed as the pasta sits. Saving some dressing for later helps prevent the finished dish from becoming dry.

3. Forgetting to rinse your pasta after cooking

Pasta texture can also be an issue. Because pasta is starchy, some chefs recommend giving it a quick rinse when removed from the boiling water. Excess starch can result in a firmer texture when the pasta cools.

Grenier feels that it come down to personal preference, but says, "I do think it is OK to rinse the pasta for salad because you don’t really want any excess starch."

4. Not taste-testing before eating

Finally, many home cooks forget to taste the pasta salad again before serving. Chilling can mute flavors, which means a final adjustment with salt, acid, a few herbs or dressing is often necessary.

A quick taste test before bringing the bowl to the table can make a surprisingly big difference.

GABY VELASQUEZ/ EL PASO TIMES / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Final Takeaways

Pasta salad may be a staple of summer gatherings, but that doesn't mean it should be treated as an afterthought. According to Grenier, a few simple adjustments can dramatically improve the final result.

Dressing the pasta while it's warm, refreshing it before serving, choosing ingredients with varied textures and paying attention to seasoning can all help create a more flavorful dish.

With cookout season underway, those extra steps may be the difference between a pasta salad that's merely acceptable and one that guests come back for again and again. Sometimes, the simplest side dishes benefit the most from a little professional advice.

Up Next:

Related: I Tried the Viral Way To Make Potato Salad 10x Better and Was Honestly Surprised

Source:

• Adrienne Grenier, executive chef of Burlock Coast in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

We’ve all been there: An ordinary day suddenly becomes unforgettable because the object of our affection enters the room. It’s a feeling that never gets old and one that is perfectly encapsulated in an underrated ’80s-set cult comedy. 

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In Greg Mottola’s semiautobiographicalAdventureland, the scene in question sees the amusement park’s male employees collectively lose their minds as the resident unattainable cool girl, known only as Lisa P (Margarita Levieva), confidently strides into their orbit. Wearing an off-shoulder employee tee and acid-wash denim, with a snow cone in hand, she commands the attention of everyone around her as Joel (Martin Starr) delivers the now-iconic line, “That a-- is a higher truth.” 

It’s cinematic nostalgia at its finest and most likely the reason Rolling Stonelater named the scene one of the greatest rock-and-roll movie moments of all time. Also, because the scene’s real secret weapon was the song.

Set to the tune of The Rolling Stones’ “Tops,” a soulful deep cut off their 1981 album, Tattoo You, the soulful rock ballad features a smooth groove, Mick Jagger’s sugary swagger, and cynical undertones, making for the ideal sonic gem to capture the absurdity and fantasy of the cinematic moment. 

Despite appearing on the band’s 1981 record, the song actually dates back to 1972, when the Stones were recording material for Goats Head Soup. Rescued from the cutting-room floor nearly a decade later, “Tops” became one of the hidden gems on an album built largely from unfinished songs. 

Released in April 2009, Adventureland follows recent college graduateJames Brennan (Jesse Eisenberg) whose future plans get derailed and he’s forced to take a summer job at a rundown amusement park. The film, sitting at 89% on Rotten Tomatoes, is celebrated for Mottola's wit, the nostalgic atmosphere, and the carefully curated soundtrack that features more than 40 tracks from artists like The Replacements, The Cure, and The Velvet Underground.

That’s what make’s Mottola’s use of “Tops” so inspired. The track was never one of the Stones’ biggest hits, but it became a fan-favorite anyway. Thanks to Adventureland, a new generation discovered it, and today, it’s nearly impossible to separate “Tops” from Lisa P’s slow-motion entrance. Proof that sometimes a forgotten song becomes immortal when it finds the perfect scene.

Adventureland is available to rent or buy on Prime Video.

Related: 1970 Rock Anthem Behind a Beloved Road-Jam Scene Ranked Among the Greatest Ever

Written by John Lennon and Paul McCartney, the track "I Want to Hold Your Hand" was penned in response to a plea from Capitol Records for the band write a song that would hit with the American market. At the time the duo were writing in the basement of McCartney's then girlfriend's childhood home. They composed the song with Lennon recollecting,

"We wrote a lot of stuff together, one on one, eyeball to eyeball. Like in 'I Want to Hold Your Hand,' I remember when we got the chord that made the song. We were in Jane Asher's house, downstairs in the cellar playing on the piano at the same time. And we had, 'Oh you-u-u/ got that something ...' And Paul hits this chord and I turn to him and say, 'That's it!' I said, 'Do that again!' In those days, we really used to absolutely write like that—both playing into each other's noses."

In 1963 the Fab Four recorded the song with four-track technology with 17 different takes. Demand for the single was high, with over one million advance orders for it being placed. "I Want to Hold Your Hand" was released at the height of Beatlemania, and the response was electric. A week after entering the charts, it knocked another Beatles tune, "She Loves Me" off of the top spot in the UK. It became the Christmas number one song of that year.

In the United States, "I Want to Hold Your Hand" was released in early December of 1963. Originally, it had been planned to release the song in the US in January of 1964 to coincide with an appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show, however a 14-year-old fan of The Beatles named Marsha Albert requested it on the radio a month earlier, triggering the United States phenomenon of Beatlemania, forcing the record label's hand.

The demand for the song in the states was unprecedented for the time, with 10,000 copies being sold in New York City every hour just three days after the initial release. "I Want to Hold Your Hand" sold roughly five million copies just in America, and became the first US number one single for The Beatles.

According to Billboard, "I Want to Hold Your Hand" is the 48th biggest hit of all time in music history. For The Beatles, the single became their best-selling song in their entire catalog, selling more than 12 million copies worldwide.

The song is considered to be one that "electrified American pop." Timelisted it among its 100 best songs of all time, and Rolling Stone ranked the song number 16 on its iconic "500 Greatest Songs of All Time."

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Related: Final Album Recorded by 'Most Famous Band in History' Released 56 Years Ago

Bombshell Corbin Mimis came in and shook up the dynamic of the villa. Now with the first recoupling looming, it is time to tighten up connections as decisions get made, and the first Islander of Season 8 leaves the Villa.

Here’s everything to know about the Love Island USA Season 8 Episode 5, including what time it comes on and how to watch.

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What time does Love Island USA Episode 5 come on?

Love Island USA episode 5 will drop on Peacock around 9 p.m. ET/PT.

However, historically speaking, if you open the app about 15 minutes early, there’s a chance the newest installment may already be available to watch.

How to watch Love Island USA Season 8 Episode 5

In the United States, Love Island USA is streaming exclusively on Peacock.

If you are in Canada, Love Island USA streams on Crave.

Related: Why ‘Love Island’ ‘Menace’ Tyrique Hyde Just Rejected a Massive Return for USA Season 8

What will happen in the Love Island USA Season 8 Episode 5?

The Love Island USA official social media account gave a preview of what will happen in the second episode.

• Corbin explores his connection with Kenzie
• The women get to make their pick at the firepit, with the boy not picked being left single and vulnerable.
• Ariana Madix returns and explains that not only is there a recoupling tonight, but "there is one more thing she forgot to tell them."

Related: ‘Love Island’ Fan Favorite Couple Welcomes Baby No. 2 ‘Unexpectedly Early’

Where Is The First Look For Love Island USA Season 8 Episode 5?

The official Love Island USA social media accounts posted a first look at the episode. Watch below:

Anxieties run high as the Villa gets ready for the first recoupling of the season 😱 Don't miss an all-new #LoveIslandUSA tonight - 9pm ET, only on @peacock 🔥🏝️ pic.twitter.com/OTHGZ0nN2g

— Love Island USA (@loveislandusa) June 7, 2026 Who is the cast of Love Island USA Season 8?Aniya HarveyBeatriz HatzBryce DettloffCorbin MimisGabriel VasconcelosKayda BosseKC ChandlerKenzie AnnisMelanie MorenoSean ReifelSincere RheaTrinity TatumVasana MontgomeryZach Georgiou

Related: ‘Love Island USA’ Season 8 Just Shattered a Massive Streaming Record for Peacock

Who are the couples of Love Island USA?Aniya Harvey and KC ChandlerBeatriz Hatz andGabriel Vasconcelos
Kayda Bosse and Zach Georgiou
Melanie Moreno and Sincere Rhea
Trinity Tatum and Bryce DettloffWho is single and vulnerable?Kenzie Annis and  Sean ReifelWhen does Love Island Aftersun premiere?

The Love Island USA talk show Love Island Aftersun drops every Saturday, hosted by Summer Houseand The Traitors star Ciara Miller and social media star Tefi Pessoa.

Related: Who Is ‘Love Island USA’s Corbin Mims? Everything to Know About the Latest Bombshell

The word "empathy" has become buzzy of late, and psychologists aren't complaining. Empathy is often praised as a sign of high emotional intelligence and is something that can deepen relationships with friends, colleagues and family members.

In addition to that, it's also possible to have "high empathy." But wait—what is that?

"It is conceptualized as having an above-average capacity to pick up on others’ emotions," Dr. Brandy Smith, Ph.D., a licensed psychologist with Thriveworks, tells Parade. "It can be valuable in noticing when something may be going well or be difficult for someone."

When you have such a high level of awareness of another person's needs in a situation, you can give them the attention and care they need.

"It can allow for someone to make a helpful change in a moment, too, that can improve a situation," she continues.

As valuable as high empathy can be, she shares that it can have its pitfalls, as well. For example, sometimes it can also manifest as certain "bad" habits. But even though these behaviors can be perceived negatively, it doesn't mean they necessarily cross a line; however, you have to make sure they don't.

"Having a solid sense of where the 'healthy' spot is for habits provides a frame of reference to strive for," the psychologist says. "It also helps us differentiate when and perhaps how far over that line we are at times. For instance, taking someone into consideration is healthy, but always putting their needs and wants before yours is problematic."

So, are your "bad" quirks serving you because you're very compassionate, or are they holding you back? Dr. Smith shares seven "bad" habits that actually signal high empathy (and when they could become problematic).

Related: Child Psychologist Reveals: ‘This Is the Best Children’s Show To Work on Empathy in Kids and Grandkids’

Olga Pankova/Getty Images

7 'Bad' Habits That Signal High Empathy, According to a Psychologist

Plus, Dr. Smith shares how to course-correct if you're exhibiting these "negative" behaviors.

1. Sensing that something is “off” for someone

It's helpful to know when someone is acting differently, but we're not always accurate in determining why something is up. Even people with high empathy aren't mind readers. The way you react to someone's different behavior is key here.

"Sensing that something is 'off,' and asking about it can be helpful," Dr. Smith shares. "However, sensing that something is 'off,' guessing or assuming what it is and acting as if [your guess] is accurate is problematic."

Related: 7 Signs You’re Not ‘Too Sensitive’—You’re Actually Highly Perceptive, a Psychologist Says

2. Difficulty appropriately taking yourself into consideration

Dr. Smith says it's possible to become overly focused on a loved one if you're highly empathetic and you don't pause to consider your own needs. However, she says that doesn't help you or them, and it can tank your well-being.

"It goes back to the sentiment that one cannot pour from an empty cup," she emphasizes. "The reality is, some self-consideration is needed to keep you healthy enough to be able to be there for others."

3. Feeling at a high level that a person is going through something

Sometimes, highly empathetic people can feel someone else's feelings so intensely that it becomes difficult to maintain emotional distance.

"It is a positive to be able to sense what someone else is experiencing," Dr. Smith states. "The 'bad habit' part is not having a healthy emotional distance of knowing this is the other person’s experience and instead experiencing it as if it is your own experience."

Related: 8 Things ‘Highly Perceptive’ People Instantly Notice About Others, According to a Psychologist

4. Attentiveness to helping “make things better” for someone

It's caring to want to be a helper, especially when you want your loved one to have good experiences. Yet, Dr. Smith notes that some people with high empathy have difficulty tolerating a loved one's hard times or emotions.

"Not realizing or accepting that tough emotions and hardships are [normal] and healthy to learn to navigate is problematic," she reports. "Not purposefully causing pain is appropriate, but being a zealot about 'making things better' goes into toxic positivity territory."

5. Efforts to please/be agreeable

Highly empathetic people can be natural diplomats and peacekeepers, but this habit can also veer into "problem" zones.

"Sometimes, high empathy leads the person to want to be overly pleasing or agreeable to keep peace," Dr. Smith notes. "Again, being considerate of others and being pleasing or agreeing to something is OK."

She shares that this habit becomes concerning if it becomes compulsive.

Related: 7 Behaviors That People-Pleasers Don’t Even Realize They’re Doing, a Psychotherapist Warns

6. A disproportionate sense of being able to exert control

Dr. Smith shares that highly empathetic people can overstimate their impact. They may think, "If I just do X, this difficult situation will get better." She's also seen major empaths go so far as to say, "If I can just do Y, I will completely prevent this from happening."

"Being aware that you have an impact is appropriate, but the notion of having an unrealistically high expectation of being able to control is problematic," she shares.

7. Over-analyzing experiences

Dr. Smith notes that this habit can involve looking for signs of the impact you have on others. Sometimes it's appropriate, like when you notice your tone with a colleague yesterday was a bit harsh, and they've been acting distant ever since. Addressing it can repair your relationship. But Dr. Smith shares that people can overanalyze everything they say and do.

"It can go into a ruminative cycle that involves too much rehashing, which is not taking you anywhere helpful," she notes.

Related: How To Stop Worrying That Someone Is Mad at You, According to a Psychologist

Why These Habits Form

Highly empathetic people can develop habits like overanalyzing situations and thinking they can prevent hard things and emotions for many reasons, including devastating events. In fact, Dr. Smith shares that some people can become very compassionate like this—and display some of these behaviors—because they had traumatic experiences as children.

"In these situations, being highly attuned to someone else’s state can help them protect themselves better," the psychologist explains.

For others, these "bad" habits could just be innate. Still, some people become highly sympathetic through "nurture."

"Others have high empathy from being taught about empathy and consideration of others," she says. "They practiced those ways and received reinforcement for being empathic."

Related: 9 Unique Traits of Adults Who Were Shamed as Kids, According to Child Psychologists

When Some of These Habits Become Problematic

Here are a few examples of scenarios to watch out for.

You can't pause to consider your needs

You may roll your eyes at the "oxygen mask" and "empty cup" analogies, but they do carry weight.

"Caring about others is important, but if a person is so focused on others that they are not pausing to take their own needs and wants into consideration, it is a problem," Dr. Smith explains. "One way to make sure you are staying within moderation is to pause to consider what others and yourself may need and want, rather than only focusing on others all the time."

You struggle to keep a healthy emotional distance from others  

You are not a sponge, and it is not your job to absorb someone else's "stuff." In fact, Dr. Smith shares that taking on other people's problems isn't a sign of caring for them or yourself. Instead, she says it's a red flag that you could use some support in establishing boundaries.

"Caring about others is appropriate and within bounds, but when you are consumed by others' experiences like they are your own and like it is your responsibility, that is problematic," she states.

A therapist can help you work on boundaries and the guilt you may experience when you try to set them.

Related: 11 Boundaries Every Woman Should Set by 40, According to Therapists

You try to "prevent" others from experiencing difficult emotions

Dr. Smith points out that experiencing a full range of emotions is just part of being human.

"Sometimes a loved one wants to 'take away' anything difficult or distressing for their loved ones," she points out. "When they sense the loved one is experiencing that, they go into 'fix it' mode of working to 'take it away.” That is not possible, nor is it healthy."

She shares that it's important for highly empathetic types to find ways to tolerate difficult experiences and emotions, and that it's OK to do so. Showing up as a listening ear when someone you love is struggling (if you can) is enough.

Related: The Main Texting Habit That Ruins Relationships, According to a Harvard-Trained Psychologist

Final Takeaways

People with high empathy have an above-par ability to notice others’ emotions. If you're highly empathetic, this quality can help you read the room and support loved ones. However, it's possible to develop some "bad habits."

• Highly empathetic people have certain habits. They may play peacekeeper, try to fix others' problems (or save them from tough emotions), and feel others' feelings intensely.
• Habits form for many reasons. Some people are naturally highly empathetic, while others develop certain habits from childhood experiences or lessons learned over the years.
• These habits aren't always "bad." It's OK to care about others or to notice if you made someone upset, even if you use an over-the-top, harsh tone. However, Dr. Smith shares that when you become overly focused on preventing another person from experiencing a full range of emotions or on preventing boundary encroachment, it can be detrimental to your well-being.

Up Next:

Related: These 7 'Annoying' Habits Actually Signal Intelligence, Psychologist Says

Source:

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

Statement mirrors are a functional and decorative piece to add to your home. Not only does it act as a piece of decor, but it also serves the purpose of being a reflective surface, bouncing light and can even make a small space feel a bit larger when placed strategically. From a console table to a fireplace mantel, a mirror is a great addition. If you're looking for a new one to add some charm and light to your own space, World Market is selling a pretty option right now. It is giving antique store vibes but for so much less.

World Market's Antique Gold Metal Vintage Peacock Vanity Wall Mirror is just so charming. Featuring a rectangular metal frame with slightly rounded edges at the top, the mirror's antique gold finish, coupled with its whimsical peacock accents, makes it feel super special and unique. It's definitely a piece that is bound to earn you tons of compliments. It's just so eye-catching.

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Antique Gold Metal Vintage Peacock Vanity Wall Mirror, $169.99 at World Market

World Market

When it comes to dimensions, this ready-to-hang mirror measures 23.5 inches in width, one inch in depth and 32 inches in height and weighs 18.7 pounds total. This would be great to place on your vanity, but would also make a great statement piece in a living room, bathroom or hallway. It's totally up to you where you'd like to place it.

Related: World Market's Beautiful 2-Door Storage Cabinet Is Giving Vintage Heirloom Vibes

World Market customers love this gorgeous mirror, giving it an average rating of five stars on WorldMarket.com. Fans of the mirror appreciate it for its sturdy build, whimsical style and heavy weight.

"Whimsical and stunning," wrote one happy World Market shopper in a five-star review on World Market's website. "Absolutely stunning! We are redecorating our secondary bathroom to give it a Japanese/whimsigoth/spa feel and this piece is just stunning! We cannot wait for it to be the showpiece once everything is done!"

"I would purchase this again," said another fan in a five-star review on WorldMarket.com. "This is a beautiful piece. It is well made and heavy. We love it."

You can find this beautiful mirror on World Market's website or in select World Market stores. It retails for $169.99.

Related: World Market's 100% Cotton Bath Towel Adds a Splash of Color to Your Bathroom

Some movie quotes resonate through generations because they encapsulate something unforgettable about human nature. Each birth month can be matched with a famous movie quote that reflects its unique personality, as revealed below. Just as the best movie quotes, every birth month possesses its own charm and character. Some quotes inspire, others entertain, and some serve as a reminder of why certain words remain timeless.

Each Birth Month Matched With a Famous Movie Quote, Based on Personality

Check for your birth month.

January – "May the Force be with you." — Star Wars

People born in January are determined, ambitious, and often the ones leading the way. Whether you're a disciplined Capricorn or an independent Aquarius, you have a quiet confidence that helps you push through challenges.

February – "Carpe diem. Seize the day, boys." — Dead Poets Society

Individuals born in February are known for thinking differently and embracing their individuality. Whether you're an innovative Aquarius or a compassionate Pisces, you're always looking for ways to make life more meaningful. This quote speaks to your free spirit.

March – "After all, tomorrow is another day." — Gone with the Wind

March people are hopeful and resilient. Even when things don't go as planned, those born in March tend to believe better days are ahead. Whether you're an intuitive Pisces or an energetic Aries, optimism helps carry you forward.

April – "Frankly, my dear, I don't give a damn." — Gone with the Wind

People born in April are confident, straightforward, and rarely afraid to speak their minds. Whether you're a bold Aries or a practical Taurus, you know your worth and don't waste time on unnecessary drama. "Frankly, my dear, I don't give a damn" quote fits your fearless attitude perfectly.

May – "I'm the king of the world!" — Titanic

Those born in May love experiencing life to the fullest. Whether you're a grounded Taurus or a curious Gemini, you enjoy adventure, excitement, and making the most of every opportunity.

June – "Just keep swimming." — Finding Nemo

Those born in June are adaptable and resilient. Whether you're a quick-witted Gemini or a caring Cancer, you know how to navigate life's twists and turns. This simple but memorable quote reflects your ability to keep going no matter what.

July – "There's no place like home." — The Wizard of Oz

Those born in July value family, loyalty, and meaningful connections. Whether you're a caring Cancer or a confident Leo, the people closest to you are at the center of your world.

August – "To infinity and beyond!" — Toy Story

Individuals who were born in August think big and dream even bigger. Whether you're a charismatic Leo or a detail-oriented Virgo, you approach life with confidence and ambition. This quote perfectly captures your larger-than-life energy.

September – "Houston, we have a problem." — Apollo 13

Those born in September are problem solvers who are calm under pressure. Whether you're an organized Virgo or a balanced Libra, you're the person others turn to when things need fixing. This quote reflects your practical mindset.

October – "Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you're gonna get." — Forrest Gump

October-born individuals understand that life is full of surprises. Whether you're a balanced Libra or a determined Scorpio, those born in October know how to adapt and find opportunity in the unexpected.

November – "I'll be back." — The Terminator

November-borns are persistent and incredibly resilient. Whether you're a passionate Scorpio or an adventurous Sagittarius, challenges only make you stronger. This legendary quote reflects your refusal to stay down for long.

December – "Here's looking at you, kid." — Casablanca

People born in December have a warm, memorable presence that others naturally gravitate toward. Whether you're an adventurous Sagittarius or a hardworking Capricorn, you leave a lasting impression wherever you go.

Lunch often feels like an afterthought; a mild inconvenience during a busy day. But registered dietitians say it's an underrated tool that can help you power through the rest of your day (or leave you feeling depleted by 3 p.m.). Sometimes, lunch staples can destroy your energy—they can also give you life.

"Lunch can be a big deal when it comes to energy," explains Amanda Sauceda, MS, RD, a registered dietitian. "Every time I skip and think I'll just wait for dinner, I’m left hangry because I don't have any gas left in the tank."

Sauceda shares that lunch is doubly important if you skipped breakfast (missed alarms happen), as it gives you the nourishment you need to win the rest of your day. Unfortunately, sometimes, we make what seems like a healthy lunch decision only to feel like we're dragging anyway.

"There will always be times when we choose a food that isn’t the healthiest option, and that’s OK," she adds. "The difference is awareness, and that is why foods with health halos or slick marketing can be so deceiving. We might think we’re choosing the best option, but it’s not actually [the healthiest choice]."

To raise awareness of a sneaky energy vampire, we asked registered dietitians: "What's a healthy lunch that can leave people feeling sluggish?" Scroll on to see their surprising answer for the 'healthy' lunch staple that's secretly destroying your energy.

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The 'Healthy' Lunch Staple That's Secretly Destroying Your Energy, RDs Say

"A salad marketed as 'healthy' may not always tell the full story," warns Amy Brownstein, MS, RDN, a nutrition consultant. "Just because you're eating a salad doesn't necessarily mean it's balanced and provides the proper nutrition and fuel."

Indeed, Brownstein and other registered dietitians agree that store-bought salads often contain too many energy-zapping ingredients (like added sugar in dressings) and too few of the nutrients you need to ward off an afternoon slump.

"Some salads may be too small or lack the proper balance of fiber, protein and healthy fats needed to keep you feeling full and satisfied," she says. "Other salads may seem like a healthy choice, but instead are packed with calories, come in large portions or are less nutritionally dense than you would imagine."

Related: The ‘Healthy’ Drink That’s Silently Damaging Your Liver, According to Hepatologists

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Another registered dietitian echoes these sentiments, adding that she understands why it's tempting to reach for the seemingly healthy store-bought salad.

"Store-bought salads are convenient, and there are certainly better and worse options out there," points out Meaghan Ormsby, MS, RDN, an intuitive eating and wellness travel expert at The Nutrition Travel Exchange. "My hesitation isn't with the salads themselves. It's with the assumption that all packaged salads automatically provide the variety of nutrients we get in more robust salads. Many store-bought salads are designed for visual appeal and shelf life rather than genuine nourishment."

Related: The Food Rule That Could Transform Your Energy This Year, Registered Dietitians Say

Why Store-Bought Salads Can Zap Energy

Store-bought salads lack nutrients, like fiber, and contain more added sugars than you might think. Registered dietitians say that both of these pain points can lead to energy declines later in the day. Let's start with the fiber issue.

"Fiber is one of the most important and under-consumed nutrients in the American diet," Ormsby says. "It slows the digestion of carbohydrates, which keeps blood sugar stable and energy consistent rather than spiking and crashing."

She adds that fiber also feeds good gut bacteria, protects immune health, supports digestion and keeps you feeling satisfied for longer. The problem?

"Many use iceberg lettuce as the base, which has a satisfying crunch but very little nutritional substance or fiber compared to romaine, arugula or mixed greens," Ormsby says. "Portions are another issue. Many packaged salads are sized as side dishes, not full meals, so even if the ingredients are decent, there simply isn't enough volume to make a meaningful fiber contribution."

Plus, Ormsby notes, salads often include extras, such as candied or sugar-coated nuts. Speaking of which, she says that some store-bought salads come with salad dressings with added sugars—"sometimes more than you'd find in a small cookie."

"When you consume a meal with a significant sugar load and not enough fiber or protein to buffer it, your blood sugar rises quickly and then drops, leaving you tired, foggy, and reaching for something sweet an hour later," she explains. "That crash is real, and it's your body responding to an energy spike it couldn't sustain."

Ditto for the lack of protein many store-bought salads suffer from.

"A lot of the time, these salads will include some protein but not enough, and that can be a problem," Sauceda tells Parade. "Protein is what provides you with the biggest feeling of fullness, and not having enough of that will leave you feeling hungry soon after. Combining the lack of protein with too much added sugar will mean you’re going to have an energy crash later that afternoon."

Related: We Asked 3 Nutrition Experts the Best Habit for Steady Energy—They All Said the Same Thing

Wait—Can I Never, Ever Have Store-Bought Salads?

Not all store-bought salads are created equally, Sauceda says.

"The salads that are simply a blend of different greens and lettuces are great to always keep on hand," she points out. "Since these salads are washed and ready to go, it makes incorporating them into your week very easy."

Sauceda shares that you'll often find these salads in the produce aisle in bags. They're not always a full meal—they often aren't, actually. Instead, she describes them as a potential "foundation of a well-rounded salad with protein and extra fiber foods or even stuffed into sandwiches or wilted into soup."

"The store-bought salads that are ready-to-go are the ones that you don’t want to be eating too often," she clarifies.

These are the salads that come with high-sugar dressings and even ingredients with too much saturated fat (like bacon bits—sorry, fans).

"Too much saturated fat in your diet is detrimental to your heart health, particularly if your diet is lacking fiber, which has cholesterol-lowering effects," Sauceda notes.

Related: The Weird Way To Get More Energy Over 50 That No One’s Talking About

How To Choose a Better Store-Bought Salad

If cravings or convenience call for a store-bought salad, there are ways to keep it on the healthy side. Registered dietitians share four tips to find a store-bought salad for lunch that won't deplete your energy.

1. Read the nutrition panel. Sauceda says this simple but effective step can help you make lunch choices that feed your energy levels. She focuses on added sugar, fiber and protein.
2. Look for a dark, leafy base. Ormsby says that spinach, arugula, kale or mixed greens have way more fiber, vitamins and minerals than an iceberg-based salad, explaining, "The color of your greens is a quick indicator of nutritional density."
3. Choose or skip the dressing. You'll repeat step one here. Ormsby suggests looking at the dressing's nutritional panel, which may be on the packet and different from the salad's, sharing, "If the included dressing lists sugar among its first few ingredients or contains a cream base, either use half the packet or swap it for olive oil and lemon if you have access and if your taste buds approve the swap."
4. Look for a protein source. Protein is an energy-stabilizer, right alongside fiber. "A salad with grilled chicken, hard-boiled egg, legumes or a quality cheese will keep you fuller and more energized than one that's all produce," Ormsby says. "If the salad doesn't have one, pair it with something that does."

Up Next:

Related: The ‘Healthy’ Lunch Staple That's Silently Spiking Your Blood Sugar, According to Dietitians

Sources:

• Amanda Sauceda, MS, RD, a registered dietitian
• Meaghan Ormsby, MS, RDN, an intuitive eating & wellness travel expert at The Nutrition Travel Exchange
• Amy Brownstein, MS, RDN, a nutrition consultant
• Fiber: The Carb That Helps You Manage Diabetes. CDC.
• Saturated Fats. American Heart Association.

Euphoria actress Alexa Demie is comfortable with her "level" of fame despite her co-stars going on to find global stardom.

In a profile in The Hollywood Reporter, Demie, who plays Maddy Perez on Euphoria, admits she is happy to live a more low-key life in comparison to co-stars Zendaya, Sydney Sweeney and Jacob Elordi.

"It's like, did you ever think that I don't want it?" she said of her status in Hollywood. "People really take the authority out of your hands. What happened to my ability to choose? I like my life like this, and I wouldn't change it."

Euphoria creator Sam Levinson told the outlet that, "I think there's a misconception about Alexa, and I've always rejected the framework of, 'Oh, Alexa should have what Sydney or someone else has, because that's a very high school mentality to bring to the craft."

The showrunner added, "I think Alexa is doing everything that she wants, and if she doesn't have something, it's because she doesn't want it. I see her as completely fulfilled."

Despite her clear distaste for global fame, Alexa remains thankful for her breakout role in Sam Levinson's drama. "If I didn't have that experience, I'd be hiding up there like Enya," she explained, gesturing to the Hollywood hills, and referring to the singer who lives a reclusive life in an Irish castle. "But that life is always there for me, and what I'm learning is that I can have both."

Aside from her role in the HBO drama, Alexa starred in Jonah Hill’s directorial debut, Mid90s, in 2018 and the coming-of-age drama Waves in 2019. She explains that her lack of roles and her struggle to break into the industry were because casting calls rarely looked for actors with Hispanic backgrounds.

“I was sick of going into those rooms, and this was during that time when you’re young and every few months you’re just like, ‘I’m quitting, I’m quitting,’” she explained. “But knowing me, I never would have quit. I’m more of the energy of like, ‘No, I’m going to show you I can do it.’”

Related: Zendaya’s Ending Was Nearly Very Different in ‘Euphoria'

A former detective is offering a grim interpretation of evidence from the early stages of the Nancy Guthrie investigation.

In a new interview with NewsNation's Brian Entin, Jon Buehler broke down what he believes crime scene findings may indicate, raising questions about what happened in the moments surrounding Guthrie's disappearance.

Buehler said that he doesn't believe that Guthrie is alive, based on a number of factors.

"The reason I’m fearful she didn’t survive the abduction is kind of twofold," he told Entin. "No. 1, no instantaneous demand for a reward with indication that she’s fine and that they’ll release her. That’s a pretty big stretch there to think that she survived it. But the amount of blood that was present there in the front of the house suggests to me a wound that was bleeding a lot, probably not arterial, but bleeding a lot. And with poor health and age on a pacemaker in fear, and him trying to get her to comply, that’s why I just don’t think she survived it."

Guthrie, 84, has been missing since Sunday, Feb. 1. Authorities believe that she was abducted from her Arizona home in the middle of the night. Despite receiving thousands of tips, investigators have not been able to identify a suspect or make an arrest in the case. Moreover, Guthrie still has not been located.

Anyone with information about Guthrie's whereabouts or the person or persons behind her disappearance are asked to call the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI.

READ NEXT: Expert Says Nancy Guthrie Case Could Move Forward Without a Body

Over 56 years after their disbandment, the Beatles are now synonymous with whimsical pop-rock songs. However, some of their timeless tunes were considered hot-button issues upon release.

For instance, American Songwriter reported that John Lennon's 1969 hit, "The Ballad of John and Yoko," co-written by his fellow Beatle Paul McCartney, received radio station bans. According to the publication, its lyrics evoking the image of Jesus Christ's crucifixion stirred up some controversy. American Songwriter also reported that Lennon knew that the single wouldn't be all that well received.

According to the publication, Lennon explained that he wrote the song about his 1969 marriage to his second wife, Yoko Ono, now 93.

“It was very romantic. It’s all in the song, ‘The Ballad Of John And Yoko,' if you want to know how it happened, it’s in there. Gibraltar was like a little sunny dream. I couldn’t find a white suit—I had sort of off-white corduroy trousers and a white jacket. Yoko had all white on. It’s a piece of journalism. It’s a folk song. That’s why I called it ‘The Ballad Of,'" said Lennon, who died in 1980 at the age of 40.

Paul McCartney Shared Some Insight Into Co-Writing 'The Ballad of John And Yoko' in His 1997 Biography

According to The Paul McCartney Project, McCartney shared some insight into his contribution to "The Ballad of John And Yoko" in his 1997 biography, Paul McCartney: Many Years from Now, written by Barry Miles.

While speaking to Miles for the book, McCartney recalled that Lennon "was in an impatient mood" when he showed him his incomplete version of the 1969 single. McCartney said he "was happy to help" finalize the tune, which he described as "quite a good song."

"John brought [the song] around to Cavendish Avenue for me to help finish the last verse that he was having a bit of trouble with. He knew he could always leave a couple of sentences out, come and see me and we knew we would always finish them. It was a guaranteed solution," said McCartney in the biography.

In addition, McCartney noted that while Ringo Starr and the late George Harrison weren't there to record, the song sounded like it was made by all of the band.

"It had always surprised me how with just the two of us on it, it ended up sounding like The Beatles," said the musician, now 83.

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If you have mature skin, finding powders that don't look chalky or settle into fine lines can definitely be a bit of a challenge. Ideally, you'd find a lightweight formula that combines shine control with hydration to deliver long-lasting, beautiful results. Well, Ilia just dropped a brand-new finishing powder that does just that. Even better, you can pick it up right at Ulta!

Ilia's new Soft Focus Finishing Powder is the perfect addition to your makeup bag this summer. Offering 12 hours of shine control and hydration, this talc-free finishing powder gives a blurred, diffused finish that looks absolutely stunning.

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Ilia Soft Focus Finishing Powder with 12-Hour Shine Control, $44 at Ulta

Ulta

Shop It!

This finishing powder comes in three translucent shades including light, medium and dark. To apply, take your powder brush or the included sponge in the compact and dip it into the powder. Tap off any excess and then gently press the powder into your skin. You can apply it all over your face or just to the areas that tend to get the oiliest, such as your T-zone. And that's it! This is also great for on-the-go touchups.

Related: Ulta's Radiant New Makeup Product Delivers a Beautiful Bronzed Glow in Seconds

Customers are loving this finishing powder so far, giving it an average rating of five stars on Ulta.com, with 100 percent of shoppers saying they would recommend it to others.

"A game changer for mature skin," said one fan in a five-star review on Ulta.com. "ILIA Beauty Soft Focus Finishing Powder is one of those rare products that actually delivers on blur without flattening the skin. It gives that soft-focus, airbrushed finish while still letting skin look like skin, never dry, never chalky. The 12-hour shine control is real, but what surprised me most is how comfortable it stays throughout the day. No tightness, no creasing, just a refined, smoothed effect that still feels hydrated. On mature skin, especially under the eyes, this is a total game changer. It blurs fine lines instead of settling into them, and instantly makes everything look more rested and polished without heaviness. A beautiful, thoughtful formula that feels like skincare and makeup had a very well-executed moment together."

You can find this new finishing powder from Ilia on Ulta.com or in select stores. It retails for $44.

Related: Get Instant Glass Skin With This Hydrating New Product at Ulta

Sometimes, fans are unaware of the juicy backstory behind some of their favorite tracks that made a band's career. The rock band .38 Special released a 1983 rock song that was born out of tensions with its songwriter and his involvement in another iconic band called Survivor.

"Caught Up in You" was released by the Southern rock band in the early '80s for their studio album Special Forces. Before then, they had developed a following with their song "Hold On Loosely" that entered the charts. It wasn't until the 1982 track that the band had a breakthrough, landing at No. 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and No. 1 on the Top Rock Tracks chart. 38 Special soon got massive radio airplay with the song and became one of the top tracks to release during the era.

Not many fans may know that the song has quite the backstory, having been written by group members Jeff Carlisi and Don Barned alongside Survivor's Jim Peterik. Peterik was actually behind .38 Special's first hit, "Hold on Loosely," which he originally wrote for Survivor but was rejected from being included in the band's album. It instead went to .38 Specials.

According to SongFacts, there was immense tension between Peterik and Journey due to his writing songs for the other band. The legendary rock group felt that Peterik's work for .38 Special was creating competition for them on the charts. Peterik often tried to ease the band's worry, but wouldn't listen.

"There was a lot of resentment that I was writing songs not only for Survivor, but I was writing them with .38 Special too. I'm talking about resentment from my own band, Survivor. What I tried to explain to them, which fell on deaf ears, was that the .38 songs would never have been right for Survivor. They came from another place in me and were very much a product of the synergy of Don Barnes, Jim Peterik, and Jeff Carlisi," he said.

Due to knowing Survivor's distaste for him working with the other band, Peterik said that he often had to write songs in secret. He recalls "sneaking around" when .38 Special came in to record their next album, with Survivor having no idea they were even in town. Fearing one of the Survivor band members would stop by, Peterik knew .38 Special couldn't come to his house.

"So we went to my mother's house and wrote in the basement. We were writing 'Caught Up In You' in this gloomy room in my mother's basement all dark and dank, and we're writing this hit song. I was feeling like the bad kid playing hooky or something," he said.

Survivor's Frankie Sullivan is also credited on the song after demanding credit. He felt the song's chord progression was similar to "Take it All," which the band was working on. Peterik revealed that there was no evidence of it being true, but managed to get .38 Special to agree to avoid a lawsuit.

Related: 1975 Soft Rock Ballad, Dominating the Charts for 20 Weeks, Became a Defining Signature Anthem

When Morgan Wallen pulled the plug on a scheduled stop of his Still The Problem Tour, fans immediately began speculating about what really happened.

The country superstar was set to perform a second night in Pittsburgh on Saturday, June 6, but the show was canceled just hours before he was expected to take the stage. While Wallen initially cited severe weather concerns, online rumors quickly took on a life of their own (as they do), prompting the singer to address the situation directly.

In a video shared to his Instagram Stories later that same night, the 33-year-old explained that the decision came after conversations between his team and local officials.

According to Wallen, forecasts warned of potentially dangerous wind conditions that could pose a serious safety risk. “The truth of the matter is, I have a large stage that, in those conditions, could become fatal to a lot of folks around it. So, I did the best I could with the information I had in that moment,” he explained.

The singer also pushed back on some of the online chatter that followed the cancellation. “I’ve been seeing a lot of nonsense about me that is simply not true, and I just wanted to clear the air,” Wallen shared. “I think my true fans know that that’s not how I operate in general, but I had to say it.”

READ MORE: Country Star Angrily Flips Piano On Stage After Technical Issue

His response came after some fans weren’t buying the initial weather excuse.

“morgan wallen cancelling his show last night is just hilarious because i walked outside after my shift at 11pm and my car was completely dry. no rain in sight. that man was already on his way back to tennessee,” one wrote on X.

A second claimed, “The Morgan Wallen Pittsburgh drama continues. According to flight plans and investigative reporters, he was already in the air long before discussions of a cancelation,” along with a screenshot of Wallen’s alleged flight path.

“Morgan Wallen had some reason to not do that concert that had zero to do with the weather,” a third said.

But of course, many are on his side. 

“People blaming Morgan Wallen for the decision to cancel are morons…this obviously comes from the city or other officials… not him,” one stated, while another agreed, “I have a hard time believing he has control of making that call.”

The cancellation followed another viral moment from Wallen's Pittsburgh stop. During Friday night's show, videos shared online appeared to show the singer grabbing a security guard's cell phone near the stage and tossing it into the crowd. One outlet claims, however, that the security guard might have been asked by a fan to record and was simply returning the phone.

And just days before during a performance in Denver, Wallen appeared frustrated by a technical issue involving his piano while performing "Sand In My Boots." After tipping the instrument over mid-song in an angry move, he finished the remainder of the track a cappella, earning cheers from the audience.

Related: Beloved Country Star Forced to Cancel Performance, Says He Has 'No Choice'

Just one week after overturning his piano due to a technical issue, Wallen is back in the spotlight after an unexpected interaction with security during his latest concert.

The country superstar sparked buzz after multiple videos began to surface, showing the "Whiskey Glasses" artist grabbing a security guard's phone and tossing it into the crowd while performing in Pittsburgh on Friday night. The moment quickly made the rounds on social media, with fans debating whether Wallen was frustrated by the device or the fact that a paid security guard was recording like a fan.

According to one report from Country Hub, however, the security guard may have been asked by a nearby fan to record a better view on the fan's phone.

Don’t worry guys, she had a screen protector… #MorganWallen #StillTheProblemTour #countrymusic pic.twitter.com/ros484MNEA

— Country Sayings (@countrysayingss) June 6, 2026

Either way, video shows the "Thinkin' Bout Me" singer walking over mid-song and waving at the camera. Just five seconds later, he walks back to the same camera and snatches it from the female security guard's hands at Acrisure Stadium.

Fans with tickets to night two in Pittsburgh didn't get to record at all, as the country artist canceled the show due to poor weather. However, as many fans revealed online, "the sun [was] shining."

"That was the information I had in that moment, and I trusted my team," Wallen explained. "I understand that the wind and whatever else hasn't gotten to Pittsburgh yet. But the truth of the matter is, I have a large stage that in those conditions could become fatal to a lot of folks around it. So I did the best I could with the information I had in that moment."

Wallen's actions are the latest in a string of outbursts amid his "Still the Problem" tour.

Following his show in Denver, Colorado, on May 29, Wallen faced backlash for his reaction to faulty equipment. While performing "Sand In My Boots," the singer flipped his piano after experiencing technical difficulties.

He later sarcastically addressed the issue on TikTok, saying, "Can’t you tell I’m so distraught over my piano."

"Hey, I just want you guys to know that right now this piano is working," he said. "That's what they told me last night."

A familiar face from a beloved 1970s television series was spotted during a rare public outing in California. Eric Scott, who stepped back from Hollywood decades ago, was seen out and about in a low-key appearance, according to photos published by the Daily Mail. 

Wearing a pair of dark denim jeans and a white Los Angeles Dodgers World Series T-shirt, Scott flashed a smile for nearby paparazzi as he walked around Los Angeles.

After The Waltons ended in 1981, Scott got into sales, assuming that he'd continue acting at some point. When nothing came about, Scott realized he had to do something to make money, so he left his Hollywood career in the past and started working for a delivery company.

And while you might think that Scott made enough money on 212 episodes of The Waltons, he has said that's not the case.

"We were loved by the public, but we never felt the studio appreciated us," he told Closer Weekly in 2017. "We did not get rich from that show."

After The Waltons ended, Scott kept one foot in the door, so to speak, and went on to star in about a dozen more roles in the '80s and '90s. His very last project in the industry was in 2001.

In the 2000s, Scott took over at Chase Messengers, a parcel delivery service, in Encino, California. And while he may be in his 60s, he still has a hint of red hair and a Hollywood smile that Waltons fans would recognize anywhere.

Before a single episode of the new The Vampire Lestat season had aired on AMC, the show had already done something television almost never attempts. It made its fans feel like they were living inside the fiction.

On June 2, five days before the Season 3 premiere, AMC took over the Beacon Theatre in New York City for a one-night-only event billed as the final stop on Lestat's world tour. Fans who had scored complimentary tickets through an online lottery arrived to find the venue transformed into something between a prestige television premiere and a genuine rock concert. The cast sat in the audience alongside fans and press. After a screening of the new premiere episode, Sam Reid, fully in character as Lestat de Lioncourt, walked onstage and performed a 30-minute live set.

What followed has been described by everyone who was there in terms that go well beyond the usual superlatives of entertainment coverage. The TV Cave called it 'the best screening I have ever attended.' Bloody Disgusting wrote that Reid fed off the crowd's energy in a way that was 'a perfect distillation of the series' thoughtful relationship with its audience.' The Wrap reported that the theater's 2,894 seats were not enough; fans had traveled from Boston and Philadelphia just to be in the room, and hundreds more stood outside without tickets, unwilling to leave.

Related: The YouTuber Who Beat Hollywood Turned Down Every Streamer — To Release His Movie on YouTube

Reid had thought carefully about the strange meta-quality of the night. He told IndieWire beforehand, 'Lestat has a TV show, and then he also has a band. So if he's out in the real world, this is him promoting his TV show, but also, this is his band.' Series composer Daniel Hart (who wrote all the original music Lestat performs on screen this season) played onstage alongside Reid, making the night as much a genuine concert as a promotional event.

Review embargoes lifted the same day as the concert, and the numbers came in alongside the cheers: The Vampire Lestat debuted at 100% on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics praising Sam Reid's performance as the season's driving force. The Wrap's Kayleigh Donaldson called it 'a striking and nervy piece of work that goes there over and over again.' RogerEbert.com's Sherin Nicole wrote that it was 'both wicked and charming while remaining unrepentantly dangerous.' Screen Rant's Nick Bythrow called it one of the best seasons of television in 2026.

The series, based on Anne Rice's novel and originally titled Interview With the Vampire when it debuted on AMC in 2022, has now logged a 99% critical average across all three of its seasons, a consistency that almost no prestige cable drama has matched. Season 3 carries a new title, again drawn from Anne Rice's second Vampire Chronicles novel, highlighting a shift in the show. This is Lestat's story now, and judging by June 2 at the Beacon, he already owns it.

The Vampire Lestat airs Sundays at 9 p.m. ET/PT on AMC and AMC+.

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With spring cleaning season winding down fast, it's the perfect time to upgrade your storage essentials. If you're looking for an easy and stylish way to declutter your space, Walmart's top-rated Homfa Bathroom Cabinet ticks all the right boxes. It features multiple tiers of adjustable shelving and a simple, modern design that's versatile enough to complement any home. 

Originally $115, the versatile two-door cabinet is now on sale for just $65. It comes in a classic all-white colorway accented with black knobs, making it neutral enough to easily blend in with a range of decor from farmhouse to minimalist. 

Homfa Bathroom Cabinet, $65 (was $115) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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At 22.8 inches long, 11.6 inches wide, and 31.7 inches high, the cabinet is just the right size to help you make the most of your space, whether you're using it as bathroom or laundry storage, a kitchen pantry, an entryway table, or an accent piece in your living room. It features two adjustable shelves that are sturdy enough to hold towels, toiletries, shoes, snacks, spice jars, and more. The double doors keep your items tucked away and secure, while the round knobs allow for effortless opening and closing. 

Made from high-quality medium-density fiberboard, the cabinet is waterproof, heat-resistant, and peel-resistant, so you can easily swap out or reorganize your items as necessary without having to worry about scratches or nicks. It comes with all of the required hardware and detailed setup instructions, making assembly simple and hassle-free. 

Related: Walmart’s 'Comfortable,' 'Stunning,' and 'Sturdy,' Hammock Chair Is Currently $100 Off

The freestanding cabinet has earned plenty of praise from Walmart shoppers, who called it "beautiful" and "sturdy."  Multiple reviewers highlighted its spacious interior, with one noting it offers "lots of storage" and another saying it's "perfect to hide clutter." Others said its compact build is ideal for small spaces, calling it "perfect for tiny bathrooms."

Make this year's spring organizing a little easier, and add some stylish storage space to your home with this versatile two-door cabinet. Grab one while it's still on flash sale for just $65 at Walmart.

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The Today show has long prided itself on feeling like a family. And according to Sheinelle Jones and Jenna Bush Hager, that sense of closeness has only deepened as Savannah Guthrienavigates one of the most difficult things someone could experience.

In a new interview with Page Six shared on Sunday, June 7, Jones opened up about how the show's hosts have rallied around Guthrie following the disappearance of her mother, Nancy Guthrie.

"We're going to rally around our sister," Jones said. "She rallied around me. We know how to do that here."

Bush Hager shared a similar message, saying, "[Savannah's] heart is broken and we love her."

The pair explained that supporting Savannah has remained their focus as she continues navigating life without her mother. "If our sister's heart is broken, ours is too," Bush Hager said. 

READ MORE: Nancy Guthrie Case Turns Into ‘Ego Trip’ as FBI Pushes to Step In

The television personality also dismissed the idea that Savannah's experience had caused her to become more fearful about her own family. "No, because we're worried about one person only," Bush Hager said.

"When Sheinelle was going through what she was going through, we weren't thinking, 'What if this happened to us?' We were worried about our sister. [It was,] 'Who has the kids? Can we send food? How can we help?'" she continued, referencing the heartbreaking loss of Jones’ husband Uche Ojeh, who passed away in May 2025 after a battle with glioblastoma.

And for Jones, the support system among the Today team is something special, and something she’ll always cherish.. "When I sit down, I don't have to worry," she said. "I think the good lord does what He does."

Nancy mysteriously disappeared from her Arizona home on February 1, prompting Savannah to step away from portions of her Today responsibilities while focusing on her family. In the months since, friends, colleagues, and viewers have continued to rally around the longtime anchor as the search efforts continue. Savannah returned to Today back in April.

As of now, Nancy is still missing, and a $1 million reward is being offered for information leading to her discovery.

In 1985, four women sharing a house in Miami became one of television's most beloved groups of friends.

More than 40 years later, fans are getting a chance to revisit some of the sitcom's most memorable moments as MeTV launches its month-long "Golden Girls of Summer" programming event beginning Monday, June 8.

The special event will spotlight a different member of the household each week, featuring curated episodes centered on Dorothy, Rose, Blanche and Sophia. The themed programming will air during MeTV's regular Golden Girls lineup and will continue through June 30.

The celebration begins with Best of Dorothy Week from June 8 through June 12, featuring episodes that highlight the sharp-witted former teacher played by Bea Arthur. The following week shifts focus to Rose Nylund, portrayed by Betty White, before turning to Blanche Devereaux, played by Rue McClanahan, and finally Sophia Petrillo, portrayed by Estelle Getty.

According to MeTV, the event will feature specially selected episodes celebrating each character's most memorable storylines.

A Lasting Television Legacy

Over its seven-season run, The Golden Girls earned 68 Emmy nominations and won 11 awards. The sitcom became known for blending sharp comedy with storylines about aging, family relationships, grief, mental health and other subjects that network television rarely explored at the time.

Decades after its finale aired, the series remains one of television's most enduring comedies, continuing to attract new viewers while remaining a favorite comfort watch for longtime fans.

MeTV's month-long event gives viewers a chance to revisit some of the show's most memorable episodes while celebrating each of the four women who made the series a classic.

Full 'Golden Girls of Summer' Schedule on MeTVDorothy Week (June 8-12)

• Monday, June 8
  9 p.m.: "Guess Who's Coming to the Wedding?" (Season 1, Episode 2)
  9:30 p.m.: "The Operation" (Season 1, Episode 18)
• Tuesday, June 9
  9 p.m.: "Forgive Me, Father" (Season 2, Episode 43)
  9:30 p.m.: "Dorothy's Prized Pupil" (Season 2, Episode 46)
• Wednesday, June 10
  9 p.m.: "Dorothy's New Friend" (Season 3, Episode 66)
  9:30 p.m.: "Comedy of Errors" (Season 5, Episode 111)
• Thursday, June 11
  9 p.m.: "Feelings" (Season 6, Episode 134)
  9:30 p.m.: "Questions and Answers" (Season 7, Episode 171)
• Friday, June 12
  9 p.m.: "One Flew Out of the Cuckoo's Nest (Part 1)" (Season 7, Episode 179)
  9:30 p.m.: "One Flew Out of the Cuckoo's Nest (Part 2)" (Season 7, Episode 180)

Rose Week (June 15-19)

• Monday, June 15
  9 p.m.: "The Break-In" (Season 1, Episode 8)
  9:30 p.m.: "In a Bed of Rose's" (Season 1, Episode 15)
• Tuesday, June 16
  9 p.m.: "It's a Miserable Life" (Season 2, Episode 29)
  9:30 p.m.: "Bringing Up Baby" (Season 3, Episode 54)
• Wednesday, June 17
  9 p.m.: "Nothing to Fear But Fear Itself" (Season 3, Episode 56)
  9:30 p.m.: "Yokel Hero" (Season 4, Episode 80)
• Thursday, June 18
  9 p.m.: "High Anxiety" (Season 4, Episode 96)
  9:30 p.m.: "Rose Fights Back" (Season 5, Episode 106)
• Friday, June 19
  9 p.m.: "Once, in St. Olaf" (Season 6, Episode 130)
  9:30 p.m.: "Hey, Look Me Over" (Season 7, Episode 155)

Blanche Week (June 22-26)

• Monday, June 22
  9 p.m.: "Second Motherhood" (Season 1, Episode 19)
  9:30 p.m.: "End of the Curse" (Season 2, Episode 26)
• Tuesday, June 23
  9 p.m.: "Joust Between Friends" (Season 2, Episode 34)
  9:30 p.m.: "The Actor" (Season 2, Episode 39)
• Wednesday, June 24
  9 p.m.: "The One That Got Away" (Season 4, Episode 79)
  9:30 p.m.: "Scared Straight" (Season 4, Episode 85)
• Thursday, June 25
  9 p.m.: "That Old Feeling" (Season 5, Episode 110)
  9:30 p.m.: "Triple Play" (Season 5, Episode 117)
• Friday, June 26
  9 p.m.: "Mrs. George Devereaux" (Season 6, Episode 137)
  9:30 p.m.: "The Case of the Libertine Belle" (Season 7, Episode 156)

Sophia Week (June 29-30)

• Monday, June 29
  9 p.m.: "Long Day's Journey Into Marinara" (Season 2, Episode 44)
  9:30 p.m.: "Old Friends" (Season 3, Episode 52)
• Tuesday, June 30
  9 p.m.: "Larceny and Old Lace" (Season 3, Episode 72)
  9:30 p.m.: "Yes, We Have No Havanas" (Season 4, Episode 77)

Editor's Note: MeTV has announced Sophia Week as running June 29-30, but has not yet released episode information beyond June 30. This article will be updated when additional episodes are announced.

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