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Having your doctor tell you that you have high blood pressure can be a wake-up call. Even if you are in otherwise good health, having high blood pressure increases the risk of heart attack, stroke and kidney damage. That’s pretty dangerous for a medical condition you can’t even feel.

While there are prescription medications that can help lower blood pressure, nothing can take the place of a heart-healthy diet and lifestyle. According to a scientific article published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, up to 90% of hypertension cases are preventable. 

“The single most impactful change you can make is reducing sodium. It hides in processed and restaurant foods far more than people realize,” says Dr. Kainat Khalid, MD, a cardiologist and the director of Jamaica Hospital’s Hypertension Center in Richmond Hill, New York. According to the American Heart Association, sodium intake should be capped at 2,300 milligrams a day (roughly one teaspoon), and ideally under 1,500 milligrams a day. 

Related: What Lowering Your Blood Pressure Risk Looks Like By Decade—and How To Keep Yours In Check

In addition to keeping sodium intake low, Dr. Khalid explains that other ways to support blood pressure through diet include building meals around whole foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins. “The DASH diet was specifically designed with blood pressure in mind, and the research behind it is very strong,” she adds.

Dr. Allen J. Taylor, MD, FACC, the chairman of cardiology at MedStar Health and Vascular Institute, adds to this, saying that minimizing ultra-processed foods goes a long way in lowering the risk of high blood pressure. 

Breakfast is the first opportunity of the day to support your cardiovascular health through what you eat. Of all the breakfast foods, oatmeal perhaps has the health halo that shines the brightest. Can eating it every morning really move the needle when it comes to lowering blood pressure? Here’s the answer, according to cardiologists.

Related: The One Habit That Can Lower Your Blood Pressure Overnight, According To a Cardiologist

Natalia Gdovskaia/Getty Images

How Eating Oatmeal Impacts Blood Pressure

As long as the oatmeal you’re buying isn’t flavored and doesn’t have any added sugar, both Dr. Khalid and Dr. Taylor say that eating oatmeal for breakfast is a great habit for lowering blood pressure. 

“Studies have consistently shown that regular oatmeal consumption can produce meaningful reductions in blood pressure due to a soluble fiber called beta-glucan,” Dr. Khalid says. To this point, a 2023 analysis of 21 different scientific studies published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics found that regularly eating oatmeal significantly reduced blood pressure in people with hypertension.

Dr. Khalid explains that the beta-glucan in oatmeal helps reduce LDL cholesterol, improves blood sugar regulation and supports better arterial function. But it’s not just the beta-glucan that has a positive impact on blood pressure. Dr. Taylor says that oatmeal is a good source of potassium, which lowers blood pressure by reducing tension in blood vessel walls and prompting the kidneys to excrete excessive sodium through urine.

Besides beta-glucan and potassium, Dr. Khalid says that the magnesium in oatmeal also helps lower blood pressure because it relaxes blood vessels and balances electrolytes. 

Related: Worried About Salt and Your Blood Pressure? Here's What Cardiologists Want You To Know

What To Pair With Your Oatmeal To Support Blood Pressure Even More

By starting your morning with a bowl of oatmeal, you’re already supporting your cardiovascular health. But you can increase the benefits (and make your breakfast even tastier) by adding a few other key ingredients. 

Dr. Taylor says that adding blueberries or strawberries to your oatmeal will increase the benefits. Both of these berries are high in antioxidants, which reduce blood pressure by neutralizing free radicals, which lowers oxidative stress in the cardiovascular system. This causes blood vessels to relax and allows for better blood flow. 

Remember how one of the reasons why oatmeal is beneficial for blood pressure is because of its potassium content? Dr. Khalid says that adding a banana to your oatmeal can make your breakfast even higher in potassium, increasing the benefits. 

Both cardiologists say that adding nuts or seeds like almonds, walnuts or ground flaxseeds can also be beneficial. These foods are all high in omega-3 fatty acids and fiber, two nutrients linked with lowering blood pressure. 

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What To Avoid Adding to Your Oatmeal for Blood Pressure Support

In terms of what to avoid, Dr. Khalid suggests avoiding the addition of brown sugar or flavored syrups to your oatmeal. Both doctors warn against having your oatmeal with sugary pastries or processed meat like bacon or sausage, which are high in saturated fat and linked to raising blood pressure.

“No single food is a magic bullet, but for oatmeal, the evidence is consistent, it's affordable and almost anyone can make it a daily habit,” Dr. Khalid says. “If you're currently eating a sugary breakfast every morning, swapping that for a bowl of plain oatmeal with fruit could be one of the most impactful changes you make.”

Starting your day on a healthy note will set the tone for the rest of the day. Building off this one heart-healthy habit can have a big impact on your cardiovascular health. After all, it’s the foods we eat most often that affect health the most.

Up Next:

Related: Here’s Exactly What Happens to Your Blood Pressure When You Eat Beets

Sources:

• Overview: High blood pressure. InformedHealth.org.
• Carey, R. M., Mutner, P., Bosworth, H. B., et al. (2019). Prevention and Control of Hypertension: JACC Health Promotion Series. Journal of the American College of Cardiology. 72(11):1278-1293. 
• Dr. Kainat Khalid, MD, cardiologist and the director of Jamaica Hospital’s Hypertension Center in Richmond Hill, New York.
• How Much Sodium Should I Eat Per Day? American Heart Association.
• Dr. Allen J. Taylor, MD, FACC, chairman of cardiology at MedStar Health and Vascular Institute.
• Xi, H., Zhou, W., Niu, Y., et al. (2023). Effect of Oat Consumption on Blood Pressure: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. 123(5):809-823.
• Vendrame, S., Adekeye, T. E. and Klimis-Zacas, D. (2022). The Role of Berry Consumption on Blood Pressure Regulation and Hypertension: An Overview of the Clinical Evidence.Nutrients. 14(13):2701.
• Cabo, J., Alonso, R. and Mata, P. (2012). Omega-3 fatty acids and blood pressure. British Journal of Nutrition. 107 Suppl 2:S195-200.
• Tejani, V. N., Dhillon, S. S., Damarlapally, N., et al. (2023). The Relationship Between Dietary Fiber Intake and Blood Pressure Worldwide: A Systematic Review.Cureus. 15(9):e46116.

Memorial Day weekend is finally almost here, which means it is officially time to swap out heavy winter decor for lighter and brighter summer touches. Costco shoppers are already spotting one home find that feels perfect for the season ahead. It completely changes the mood of a room with almost no effort.

The LumiPur 6-Piece Flameless LED Candle set has Costco shoppers in love. The set comes with six candles in three different heights, along with a remote control and built-in timers. Best of all, the soft flickering glow creates the kind of relaxed summer vibe people usually try to achieve with expensive home decor.

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User @costcohotfinds even described them as the "most realistic LED candles I've ever seen," and after watching the flicker effect, it is easy to understand why people are so impressed.

Why Costco Shoppers Are Obsessed With This Home Find View this post on Instagram

Part of what makes this Costco home find stand out is how realistic the candles look in person. Unlike older flameless candles that can feel harsh or obviously fake, these use dual LED flicker lights that mimic the movement of a real flame. The candles are made with real paraffin wax and housed in glass.

The set includes two short candles, two medium candles and two taller candles, making it easy to spread them throughout a room or group them on a dining table, patio or bookshelf. Since the weather is getting warmer and summer is approaching, they feel especially fitting for late-night dinners, backyard hangs or relaxed evenings indoors.

The remote also makes them incredibly convenient. Shoppers can dim the brightness and choose between two-, four- and six-hour timer settings without even leaving the couch. Costco included all the batteries as well, so the candles are ready to use right out of the box.

Related: Costco Just Brought Back a Bright, Fresh Prepared Side Perfect for Easy Meals

The Easy Home Decor Trend Taking Over This Summer

Soft lighting has become one of the biggest home decor trends lately, especially as people look for ways to make their spaces feel calmer and more inviting. Flickering candles naturally create a cozy glow that reminds people of golden hour, campfires and long summer nights outside.

That is why this Costco home find feels especially timely heading into Memorial Day weekend and summer entertaining season. It instantly adds ambiance without the mess or safety concerns of real candles.

At just $35 for six candles plus a remote, Costco shoppers are calling this one of the easiest and most affordable home decor upgrades of the season.

Related: Costco's New 16-Piece Stoneware Dinnerware Set Is the Definition of Everyday Chic

Season 35 introduced the Survivorfinal four fire-making twist, and it became a staple. Two castaways must race to make a hot and tall fire that burns through a rope. The winner gets the final third seat to make their case of why they should win in front of the jury.

Fans got the chance to decide if Survivor 50 will include the twist. The results were revealed, and the twist continues to divide fans.

Spoiler warning for Survivor 50's finale!

Some have wanted old Survivor back for years, with one more tribal council vote at the final four. This would rely on a player's social game, like the previous votes. However, the fire-making twist gives any player a chance to advance to the final three despite their social games.

Jonathan Young and Rizo Velovic in 'Survivor 50'

Robert Voets/CBS

Related: Why ‘Survivor 50’ Fans Call Joe Hunter a ‘Terrific Person’ After the Finale

How well they can build a fire is the deciding factor in fire-making, and that's not solely up to skill. The wind has greatly affected one castaway over another at times. Fans had a chance to bring back old Survivor with season 50. Aubry Bracco won immunity, and Jeff Probst revealed 60% of fans voted to keep the fire-making challenge this season.

Fans previously talked about this possibility on Reddit on May 3. "I'd say taking out F4 fire is at least a step in the right direction. But if we’re only making one endgame change, then I’m bringing back the F2," one commenter wrote.

"Just have a regular vote at final four but with no advantages. If you played a good game you won’t go home," one person replied.

Of course, there are fans who disagree. "No if you played the best game you’ll go home and you’ll get Joe [Hunter] in the finals," another viewer replied. "We all know people vote out the best players at 5 now. Same thing will happen at 4."

"I don’t mind fire," another person added. "I understand some don’t like it, but is the reason because it’s flukey? Depending on the wind, yes you can get a weird result. But I think it goes back to the survival aspect and you should be able to make fire if you are on survivor."

The episode revealed Jonathan Young beating Rizo Velovic in fire. It was obvious that Rizo, 26, was less experienced at the activity. In the end, it was Aubry, 40, who won the jury votes against Jonathan and Joe.

Related: Fans Still Can’t Get Over the Time Erik Gave Up Immunity on ‘Survivor’

Crocs is teaming up with Red Bull Racing for a new limited-edition collection, and the cool collaboration already has fans overly hype for the shoes to drop. The Formula 1-inspired footwear fuses elements of racing and Crocs' iconic classic silhouette, making a standout release that will prove to be a must-have collector's item.

The lineup includes two styles, the Oracle Red Bull Racing Classic Runner ($85) and the Oracle Red Bull Racing Crocband Clog ($95), along with a 5-pack set of coordinating Jibbitz charms ($20). "Speed, precision, comfort. The Oracle Red Bull Racing collection was developed with form and function in mind and delivers a best-in-class wearing experience whether you’re headed to the track or watching the race from home," the brand's official description reads online.

The Classic Runner is navy blue with a royal blue checkered flag-style design on top and red accents on the heel strap and sole. "Made for crews of all kinds, this unique shoe features a sporty silhouette with a gum rubber outsole, cushioned underfoot comfort, and an aero-style body making it look as fast as it feels. Put your pair in sport mode and hop into the driver's seat in this cutting-edge pair," Crocs notes.

Meanwhile, the Crocband Clog is more eye-catching, featuring a navy blue base that's molded to look like an actual race car—down to a racer's head peeking out from the top. It even includes a winged heel strap. "This is innovation at its best. The Oracle Red Bull Racing Crocband Clog celebrates Red Bull's commitment to relentless engineering in the name of speed. Inspired by the team's turbocharged racing machine, this clog is built out just like your favorite car featuring aerodynamic wings, faux wheels, and more. Throw them in sport mode and drive up to your next race in this cutting-edge pair," the brand introduced.

Both pairs are water-friendly, easy to clean, and are said to have an "incredibly light" feel on the feet.

View this post on Instagram

Across social media, shoppers are raving over the head-turning release.

"Yeah I’m afraid I need these immediately," one person wrote in the comments section of an Instagram video showcasing the release.

"I want a pair!!! 😍," another exclaimed, while a third felt compelled to admit, "I hate crocs but I’d get these."

Someone else confirmed they wasted no time purchasing: "I got em and I cannot wait to galavant around nyc in them."

Meanwhile, more commenters chimed in with notes like, "I would 100% wear these to a race weekend," "It's like wearing Hot Wheels but for grownups 😂😂😂😂😂," and "Hahaha my husband thinks it'll help me walk faster 😂."

The Crocs x Red Bull Racing collection officially drops online on Thursday, May 21, 2026 — but only for a limited time.

Related: Crocs’ New First-of-Its-Kind Release Is Flying Off Shelves

In November 2025, readers were introduced to one of the most beautiful and electric books of the year, as Jessica Walker’s debut, The Secret Astronomers, hit the shelves.

It wasn’t just readers who were mesmerized by the novel. Barnes and Noble took note quickly, and it’s now named The Secret Astronomers as the 2026 Barnes and Noble Best YA Book. It beat out some tough competition, going up against the likes of A Stage Set for Villains by Shannon J. Spann and Thorn Season by Kiera Azar.

The Secret Astronomers is a novel that captures the hearts of many, bringing a story of secret correspondence and the friendship that forms from it. A recent transfer student decides to keep her diary in one of the oldest textbooks at the school library. At no point did she think that anyone would find it, and then suddenly, she receives a response, and the two start to communicate in secret, bringing long-buried secrets to light.

Courtesy of Viking

Copernicus just wants to get answers about her mother’s sudden death, while Kepler has dreams of going to one of the biggest colleges despite her family not having the financial means. They are two completely different girls, but they find comfort in each other through the written word.

The novel itself is a form of mixed-media, and it even has pages from an actual ancient astrophysics textbook, very much like the story itself. The entire story is told through hand-drawn illustrations, sticky note messages, annotations in the margins, and much more, creating a one-of-a-kind reading experience that everyone should see.

Walker shares that the idea came from the fact that people don’t know how to talk to each other. We’re developing technology to talk with potential life light-years away from us, yet we can’t communicate with people who don’t necessarily share our political views, and The Secret Astronomer shows it can be possible.

Appalachia is at the heart of the story, a region often misunderstood and shrouded in mystery and folklore. Walker uses her own life experience to bring an authentic portrayal, opening the region to us to help us understand the two main characters much more.

When speaking of the Barnes and Noble award, Tamar Brazis, Vice President & Publisher of Viking shared, “Viking Books Children’s Books is so proud that Barnes & Noble has recognized The Secret Astronomers with such an honor. Jessica Walker’s wholly original book has attracted a new audience of readers with its innovative approach to art, design, and storytelling.”

Iconic '90s British singer Louise Redknapp is heading back on the road next year for a milestone album anniversary tour. The trek, which was announced on Tuesday via Instagram, will mark her first headlining tour in nine years, eliciting excitement from longtime fans.

The trek, titled the Naked // Confessions Tour, will launch in the spring of 2027 and travel to five major cities across the U.K. The exclusive series of dates will celebrate the 30th anniversary of her landmark debut solo album, Naked, while highlighting her most recent work off her acclaimed fifth studio album, Confessions.

Naked served as Redknapp's first musical project outside of the R&B girl group Eternal. After riding the significant success of the group's smash-hit debut record, Always & Forever, Redknapp departed to pursue a solo career. Her vocal talent and distinct pop sensibilities carried smoothly into her independent endeavors, cementing an acclaimed solo career that has endured for over three decades.

Easther Bennett, Kéllé Bryan, Vernie Bennett and Louise Redknapp of the British R&B girl group Eternal performing on stage in 1994.

David Redfern/Redferns/Getty Images

Redknapp will kick off the tour on April 8 in Sunderland and conclude the run a week later in London. Despite the brief nature of the schedule, the singer expressed immense enthusiasm about returning to live performance and revisiting her debut material, opening up to NME in a recent interview and teasing some possible new material.

“I honestly can’t believe it’s been 30 years since Naked. That album changed everything for me,” Louise said. “To be celebrating it alongside my recent top 10 album Confessions, a record which means so much to me personally and creatively, feels incredibly special. I’ve missed touring so much, and I can’t wait to be back on the road performing all the hits and Confessions live for the first time…and maybe even some new music.”

2027 Naked Confessions Tour Dates

April 8 – Fire Station, Sunderland
April 10 – RNCM Theatre, Manchester
April 11 – Town Hall, Birmingham
April 13 – Palace Theatre, Southend
April 14 – Cadogan Hall, London

General sale tickets for the Naked // Confessions Tour will be available to the public on Friday.

Related: ’90s Rock Band, Originally Disbanded After First-Ever Show, Announces First Tour in 30 Years

Long before cinematic universes and blockbuster franchises dominated pop culture, British actor Norman Rossington carved out one of the most unusual claims to fame in entertainment history: He remains the only actor to appear in films with both Elvis Presley and The Beatles.

Rossington may never have become a household name, but his face was instantly recognizable to generations of moviegoers. Born in Liverpool, England, in 1928, he built a career playing lovable everymen, comic side characters, military figures, and working-class personalities. And he became one of Britain's most dependable character actors throughout the 1950s and 1960s.

His unique Hollywood trivia status comes from two iconic films tied to music history. In 1964, Rossington appeared in A Hard Day's Night, the Beatles' wildly influential first feature film directed by Richard Lester. Rossington played Norm, the Beatles' road manager, in the fast-paced mock documentary that captured Beatlemania at its peak and forever changed music films.

Related: The Beatles to Open Part of Their History to the Public

Just a year later, Rossington appeared alongside Elvis Presley in Tickle Me, which followed the story of a rodeo rider and ranch hand (Elvis) who becomes involved in a hidden treasure mystery at a dude ranch. Rossington played Mr. Pratt, who was one of the comedic supporting characters in the film.

While Elvis made dozens of movies during his career and the Beatles only made a handful together, Rossington became the rare connective thread between the two biggest music phenomena of the 20th century.

But reducing Rossington's legacy to trivia alone overlooks a remarkably steady and accomplished career. He appeared in acclaimed films like The Longest Day, Saturday Night and Sunday Morning, and Tom Jones, as well.

On television, he became equally familiar to British audiences through sitcoms and dramas that showcased his natural comedic timing. Rossington appeared in popular British series such as The Army Game, one of the UK's biggest military sitcoms of the late 1950s and early ’60s, where his comic timing made him a standout. He also appeared in shows including Minder, The Saint, Crown Court, and Carry On Laughing.

He also had a successful stage career, performing with the Royal Shakespeare Company and appearing in major productions of Guys and Dolls, My Fair Lady, and Beauty and the Beast.

Despite his long and respected career in film, television, and theater, Rossington never received major acting recognition. He died on May 21, 1999, in Manchester, England, at the age of 70, with no big awards under his belt, according to Playbill. Multiple reports state that the cause of death was cancer.

When Rossington died, much of the world may not have immediately recognized his name. But his unlikely connection to both Elvis and the Beatles secured him a permanent place in entertainment history, with an unforgettable bridge between the two cultural icons.

Related: Which Elvis Presley Song Matches You, Based on Your Birth Month

Au revoir, Emily! One of Netflix's most popular series, Emily in Paris, will bid farewell to fans with its upcoming sixth season. Lily Collins, who stars as Emily, shared a heartfelt message about the show's conclusion on Netflix's YouTube channel.

"Hey, it's Lily. I just wanted to share something with you all," the actress begins in the video. "After six unforgettable years of playing Emily Cooper, I'm here to share that this upcoming sixth season will be our final."

Collins then offered a heartfelt thank you to loyal fans of the beloved series. "Season six will bring you everything you love about the show and serve as the final chapter in Emily's adventure of a lifetime. Our entire cast and crew are pouring our hearts into making this a fantastic farewell season, which we're now filming. I can't wait for all of the magic ahead and to celebrate our final season with you in the most chic way yet. We're so incredibly grateful, and we love you all," she added.

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/91ung0bfqjc

The sixth and final season of Emily in Paris is currently being filmed in Greece. Show creator Darren Star (Younger, Sex and the City, Melrose Place) also shared his reflections in a separate press release from Netflix.

Star stated, "Making Emily in Paris with this extraordinary cast and crew has been the trip of a lifetime. As we embark on the final season, I am so grateful to Netflix, Paramount, and most importantly, the fans who have taken this incredible journey with us. We can't wait to share this last chapter with you. Thank you for letting us be a part of your lives, inspiring your dreams of travel and your love of Paris. We will always have Emily in Paris!"

The first season of Emily in Paris, which premiered in 2020, quickly became a phenomenon on Netflix and in pop culture. Since then, the show's international cast has become overnight global celebrities, including Lucas Bravo, Camille Razat, Philippine Leroy-Beaulieu, Ashley Park, Lucien Laviscount, Samuel Arnold, and Bruno Gouery. Notable guest stars have included Minnie Driver (Good Will Hunting), Kate Walsh (Grey's Anatomy), Eion Bailey (Center Stage), Bryan Greenberg (Suits LA), and playwright Jeremy O. Harris (Slave Play).

The fifth season of the series concluded with Emily and her friends facing new professional and romantic challenges. What lies ahead for the cast in the final season remains to be seen.

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If you're still working on sprucing up your outdoor space for spring and summer, Target has a new patio deal you won't want to miss. The Costway Folding Rattan Lounge Chair is a stylish and comfortable seating option to round out your deck or front porch, and it's now on sale for $100 off, knocking the price down to just $120 ahead of Memorial Day.  

Featuring a sleek, modern design, this cozy lounger is an elegant seasonal upgrade for any home. It has a premium acadia wood frame that's sturdy and easy to clean, with black PE rattan that's stylish, weather-resistant, and breathable enough for hot temperatures.

Costway Folding Rattan Lounge Chair, $120 (was $220) at Target

Courtesy of Target

Shop at Target

Measuring 24 inches long, 51.4 inches wide, and 32.5 inches high, this Costway lounge chair offers ample room to stretch out on and is designed to comfortably support up to 360 pounds. It comes with a built-in footrest that effortlessly folds under the seat when not in use, making it easy to store or transport to a different spot. A lockable hasp keeps the chair in place while it's folded.  

In addition to the retractable footrest, the lounger also has an ergonomic design that allows you to lounge comfortably for hours. The sloped backrest provides optimal support for reclining, while the sturdy armrests offer additional space to spread out. Plus, assembly is hassle-free, thanks to the detailed instructions and included hardware. 

Related: Target's $110 Foldable Sofa Chair Is 'Stylish,' 'Comfy,' and 'Perfect' for Compact Spaces

Multiple Target shoppers praised the Kingyes Adirondack chair for its overall quality and "beautiful" look. One reviewer dubbed it "sturdy and stylish," while another said it's "perfect for relaxing in style." Several also highlighted the space-saving design, which makes it suitable for small porches and patios. 

Shop More Deals

• Costway Outdoor Acacia Wood Dining Table, $142 (was $270) at Target
• Okak Outdoor Egg Chair, $330 (was $471) at Target
• Summit Adventure 4-Position Chaise Lounge, $269 (was $384) at Target

Get your patio ready for the sunny days ahead with this ultra-comfy rattan lounge chair. It's comfy, spacious, and a stunning upgrade for any outdoor space. Grab one (or more!) while it's still on sale for 45% off at Target. 

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.

Rizo Velovic is speaking out after Survivor host Jeff Probst accidentally spoiled his elimination live on-air.

During the Wednesday, May 20 Survivor 50: In the Hands of the Fans finale, Probst brought Velovic out on stage and revealed he lost to Jonathan Young in the final four fire-making competition before the moment had aired—cuing loud gasps from the audience.

Probst didn't realize his mistake until Velovic and fan-favorite Cirie Fields told him the elimination hadn't been shown yet.

“I’m not even sure what’s happened,” Probst said before the episode cut to commercial.

Despite the blunder, Probst had a good sense of humor about the ordeal when the show returned from commercial break. When the cameras came back up, the audience yelled, “We love you, Jeff!” to which Probst responded, “I love live television.”

“We were supposed to show you fire-making, and then have the loser of fire-making, Rizo, come out and talk about how charming he is, and if how he had practiced fire-making, maybe he would have won,” he continued. “Instead, we did a Survivor twist. It’s the last twist of the season. Now, we’re gonna watch Rizo lose.”

RELATED: Jeff Probst Makes Major Blunder During Live ‘Survivor 50’ Finale

Despite the awkwardness of the moment, Velovic—a self-proclaimed Survivor super-fan, is choosing to view the mess-up in a different lens.

“Survivor history!” Velovic told Entertainment Weekly after the finale. “Jeff was on a Variety interview recently saying that he wants to edit Survivor with the person going home and then showing how they go home. And he did it the next day, and it was me! I made Survivor history.”

The two-time castaway also became the first and only person in Survivor history to lose the final four fire-making competition twice.

“Never been voted out of Survivor, two times playing, only one of four people ever that happened to," he said. "And also the first finale flub ever in 50 seasons and the RizGod was a part of it. So that's what happened."

RELATED: ‘Survivor 51’ Will Usher in a Brand New ‘Open Era’ for the Iconic Reality Series

Velovic also said he was aware something was amiss when he was brought out on stage before his elimination aired. Typically, players are interviewed after their exits.

“So my understanding was they were under the assumption fire already happened,” he explained. “But I was in the green room saying like, ‘Wait, I'm waiting for myself to lose here. What are we doing?’ And Jeff's like, ‘Bring out Riz God. And they're like, ‘You're up!’ And I'm like, ‘Okay, I'm gonna work with what we got here.’ And obviously doing the best RizGod that I do at Tribal.’”

“I'm playing off Jeff, and Jeff is talking about fire and I was like, 'Well, I'm not trying to reveal it.' So I’m like, ‘Win or lose, I'm proud of how I played,'" he continued. "And Jeff's like, ‘Sit your ass on the bench.’ And I'm like, 'Well, this is awkward.'"

In the end, Velovic said he thinks the show "recovered well" and revealed he even joked with Probst about it afterwards.

🔥Don’t miss our weekly Survivor newsletter! Sign up to get Mike Bloom’s exclusive interviews with the players and the latest news about the show right to your inbox.🔥

Who hasn’t wanted to own their own private island? In an era when people are desperately seeking escape, an uninhabited Greek island called Makri is hitting the auction block for approximately $267,000—far less than the average price of a house in the U.S.—might sound like a dream come true. But before you start imagining yourself as the next Richard Branson, remember, oftentimes if something seems too good to be true, it usually is.

Makri, part of the Echinades archipelago in the Ionian Sea, dramatically went from luxury investment to bargain-basement pricing. Just four years ago, luxury real estate agencies were marketing it as a crown jewel for international investors, touting its potential as a five-star resort destination with a price tag of $8.6 million. Today? That same island is heading to auction in November with a starting price that's roughly equivalent to a modest apartment in Athens.

Related: 3 Underrated Stops Along the Oregon Coast Between Portland and San Francisco

The reason for the price collapse boils down to one fact: the island sits within Greece's protected environmental zones. It's classified as forest land and falls under the EU's Natura 2000 network—one of Europe's largest conservation systems. Ultimately, this means anyone hoping to build a luxury resort, beach club, or even a villa can essentially forget it.

What You're Actually Getting

Makri spans nearly 243 acres with seven kilometers of coastline, rugged terrain, and dense forests. The island currently hosts three abandoned structures: a small house, a water cistern, and a chapel. The pristine natural landscape remains untouched by development or overtourism thanks to environmental regulations, which permit only "minimal light infrastructure" and limited agricultural activity. Any significant construction or upgrades would require extensive state approvals and environmental assessments—barriers that have deterred investors from previous auction attempts.

Related: How to Score a Greek Island Cruise This Summer for Under $600

According to the Greek newspaper Thema, the island's past is messy. Acquired in 1991 and leased out from 2005 onward, it's now burdened by a tangle of mortgages, tax disputes, and legal claims dating back decades—including substantial debts owed to the Greek government.

The auction is scheduled for November 13, 2026. Whether anyone actually bids remains to be seen.

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It’s been more than a year since Blue Bloods wrapped up the hit CBS police drama, starring Tom Selleck as New York City Police Commissioner Frank Reagan. Now comes the news that while Selleck may have hung up his shield, he will still be pursuing crime when he hosts, narrates and executive produces Crime and Justice with Tom Selleck.

Whereas Blue Bloods was fictional, Crime and Justice will explore the true stories behind some of the most consequential crimes and investigations in American history as well as the lawmen who brought the offenders to justice.

“Throughout my career, I’ve been drawn to stories about consequences and the pursuit of justice,” said Selleck. “This series looks at real cases from across American history and the people tasked with seeing them through—moments when the pressure was intense, the outcome uncertain, and the decisions carried lasting consequences.”

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The 10-episode series will cover crime from the dusty streets of the Old West to the high-tech manhunts of today. Guided by Selleck, whose career has long reflected American grit and responsibility, the series takes viewers inside real investigations, standoffs, and takedowns that upheld the law and helped shape the nation’s understanding of justice.

“Tom has long brought credibility and insight to stories about law and justice,” said Eli Lehrer, Executive Vice President and Head of Programming for The HISTORY Channel. “That background makes him a natural partner for this project. We’re pleased to be working with Tom on a series that looks at real crimes, real investigations, and the people responsible for upholding the law when the stakes were highest.”

Crime and Justice with Tom Selleck will air on The HISTORY Channel.

Next, Tom Selleck’s Net Worth in 2026 Proves ‘Blue Bloods’ Makes Green

Bend and snap! Legally Blonde is hitting theaters this weekend in celebration of its upcoming 25th anniversary. Even though the original debuted on July 13 (2001), fans will get a chance to watch the beloved classic on the big screen over Memorial Day weekend. 

As if you needed another reason to get excited about the 2000’s hit returning to the theaters, its star (of course, Reese Witherspoon) recently posted a video on Instagram with a few surprises for fans. 

One of the movie’s most notable quotes, “Whoever said orange is the new pink was seriously disturbed,” seems to be in full effect when Witherspoon filmed his clip. The Elle Woods actress wears a pastel pink cardigan while sharing, “We are bringing Legally Blonde back to theaters this weekend, May 24th and May 27th. There’s just something so fun about going to the movie theaters, and sitting with your friends, mauve wearing a little bit of pink, saying all the lines.” Witherspoon then leans in, with her hand to her mouth as if she is about to whisper, and says, “Maybe doing the bend and snap.”

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But wait, that’s not all. She leans back and excitedly announces, “Plus, there’s going to be a special sneak peek of our new series, Elle, which premieres on Prime on July 1st. So grab your friends, grab your daughter, go see Legally Blonde in theaters this weekend! I think you’re going to have some fun.” 

Based on Reese’s post, fans are more than ready for this nostalgic re-release. One commenter wrote, “Clearly still remember the “bend and snap” scene. Can’t wait to watch Legally Blonde with my girls,” while others said, “Love this Reese! One of my favorite movies! So empowering! Perfect for this upcoming raining weekend,” and, “I am beyond excited! Bought my tickets and seated with my Bruiser this Sunday!”

‘Legally Blonde’ Prequel Debuts Soon

What should fans know about the new series that Witherspoon is hyping up in the video? Elle is a Legally Blonde prequel that, as the actress said, debuts on Prime Video this July. Witherspoon (who executive-produces the new show) shared in a press release earlier this year, “I think our series’ themes of kindness, authenticity, and believing in yourself will resonate deeply with fans of the original films and new audiences alike.” 

Global Head of Television, Amazon MGM Studios, Peter Friedlander, added, “Elle captures the heart, confidence, and optimism that made Elle Woods an enduring cultural icon, while giving audiences a fresh and deeply personal coming-of-age story.” 

When the Social Security Fairness Act passed in 2025, many people were told that they would see a boost in their Social Security income. However, a year later, many people say the money they were promised never came through, and some admit their payments were stolen.

Now, some warn that there may be more people out there missing money that they may not even know they were owed as part of the new ruling, creating a tricky situation for the Social Security Administration (SSA) to track as the agency tries to figure out who still needs to be paid as part of the act.

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Social Security Change Brings More Money to Some

The Social Security Fairness Act boosted payments for more than 3 million people who were either not yet collecting Social Security or collecting smaller sums. However, not everyone realized their new windfall after the SSA eliminated two major rules that cut benefits for some workers. Instead, some people never saw a single penny from the change thanks to a surprising reason: Theft.

That's right, there's been a rise in thefts after these checks were sent out, according to NBC Chicago. That's because thieves have been raiding the mailboxes of those who are supposed to be receiving the money and instead fraudulently cashing them on their behalf, while pocketing the money.

Related: 3 Surprising Ways You Can Claim Social Security Before Retirement

For one woman, that spelled a $55,000 loss after the act made it impossible for her to collect on behalf of her late husband. She told NBC Chicago that an Amazon driver was accused of stealing her mail and taking the check to a bank, where she used a fake ID to cash it. And she's not the only one who lost their money, since several other people have shared similar stories.

How to Find Out if You're Owed Social Security Payments

According to an FAQ on the SSA website, payments were set to start going out on Feb. 25, 2025 as part of this change. The payment was intended as a one-time lump sum, which is why some recipients reported receiving large amounts at home or being directly deposited into their accounts.

All payments were sent out by July 7, 2025, totaling $17 billion and spread across 3.1 million people. Those who qualified for the payment would've been sent a letter in advance letting them know they'd be receiving extra money from the SSA.

Related: New Report Claims Widows and Widowers Were Cheated Out of More Than $50 Million in Benefits by the Social Security Administration

If you received a notice but not a payment, you should contact the SSA immediately by calling 1-800-772-1213 between 8:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m., local time. However, if you did not receive a notice that you were among the millions of people who were expected to receive an extra payment as part of the new ruling, chances are that you are not owed money. That being said, the quickest way to find out is to call the SSA and ask.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.

The Thursday Murder Club became a huge success, especially with the Netflix movie, and there’s no doubt that you jumped straight into We Solve Murders by Richard Osman.

We Solve Murders followed a different group of sleuths, and we all quickly became enamoured by their knack for solving crimes. The trio is back for another murder mystery, this time in the novel We Chase Shadows, which will be released on September 15, 2026.

We Solve Murders introduced us to Steve Wheeler, a retired police detective who just hasn’t been able to take his mind off his former work. Fortunately, his punch-happy daughter-in-law, Amy, is there to back him up, and novelist Rosie is more than happy to jump into mysteries. During the initial novel, we were just getting to know them, but now they have their own agency, and it’s time to take on their first official case.

While we love Thursday Murder Club for the ability to give us older characters who aren’t done with the zest of life yet, the We Solve Murders series takes us around the world. That’s certainly the case with We Chase Shadows, which takes us to the Italian hills, where a body is found on the steps of a private villa.

Courtesy of Viking

This is clearly a murder. There’s a threatening note signed by some sort of mystery man, and now the trio is deep in the case to find the killer. They just have to do it while avoiding the police, and it turns out that they’re not staying in Italy at all. They’ll be on the road to Spain and America — and yes, we’ll get a layover at the We Solve Murders HQ!

Osman just revealed the cover for his new novel last week, where he shared the design “fits very neatly with the plot for this book…a little bit glamorous, a little bit dangerous, lots of sunshine, lots of travel, and Trouble the cat very much making his presence felt.”

This is certainly going to be one of the most anticipated novels of the fall, both in terms of general fiction and in the mystery genre. Nobody does the dry wit and humor like Osman! September 15 can’t get here soon enough!

Jason Lewis rose to stardom as Smith Jerrod on Sex and the City. However, the actor went dark on social media three years ago. Now, he's back with a mysterious message.

Lewis, 54, catapulted to fame as the boyfriend of Kim Cattrall's beloved Sex and the City character Samantha Jones. Lewis played a model who rose to stardom with the help of Jones, ultimately becoming a successful actor who supported her through her cancer journey. While Lewis stuck around for the 2008 Sex and the City movie and its 2010 sequel, his character and Jones had split by the time And Just Like That... came around. Of course, Cattrall had no interest in appearing in the HBO series, anyway. However, Lewis is back on social media after wiping his account clean three years ago, choosing to go under the radar completely.

In a video showing the star walking on the beach, the ruggedly handsome actor gave a subtle indication of what he's doing these days.

"After three years, it was time," he captioned the post, in which he tells the camera, "I went quiet. Not because I have nothing to say, but because I had something to do. The kind of creative work that doesn't leave room for much else, and I made my peace with that. It's the kind of work that needs to find its people, though. I'm still in it, but I am far enough along now that it felt like it was time to resurface and share what I've been doing," he explained.

He concluded the video by saying, "More to come."

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Is Jason Lewis Single?

No! Lewis found love with producer Liz Godwin and announced their engagement in 2020.

“She loves me when I am amazing, and when I am not,” he shared with PEOPLE. “She is always on my side and ever my support. She creates space for me in which I grow and I am a better man for knowing her, so the humble ask to take her as my wife, and of course her ‘yes,’ are absolute blessings to my life.”

Related: Kim Cattrall, 69, and Boyfriend Russell Thomas, 54, Are a Dazzling Party Duo

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

"Joe is moving just enough to technically be moving. You are not watching slow motion. That is a determined Survivor player, not bothered by any of the distractions of me or the other players or the sound of blocks dropping. Thinking about the necklace, that’s it."

Jeff Probst said this while observing Joe Hunter participate in a postmerge challenge on Survivor 50. But, in a way, it's a microcosm of the Season 48 runner-up's game on his second go-around. While his tactics based around honor and integrity had turned out fantastically successful for him this time around, he realized that would make him a minnow among sharks. And so he had to get his own teeth, dipping his toes into the waters of deceit. However, that was not necessarily the opinion of his competition. To them, Joe was someone to play around, not with, a person who sometimes had to be kept on a "Joe-tation" to avoid flying off the handle. As a result, despite feeling like he changed his game, he wound up sitting in the exact same spot he did two years ago, finishing in third place at the final Tribla Council.

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Joe entered his second season in a surprisingly fragile state for a returning player. That's due in large part to watching back his season the entirety of the spring, and watching Kyle Fraser and Kamilla Karthigesu undermine him, despite the relationship he thought he had. It was clear early on that, after feeling like he got "pantsed on national television," Joe was now playing with Survivor suspenders. And that came to a head mere days into the game with Rick Devens, as we got to see what happens when an unstoppable force meets an immovable object. 

While the former newscaster was brought into an alliance with Joe, he was not a fan of his approach, feeling he'd have to play around him rather than with him. So, when he beat around the bush about working together, it led to a tense tête-à-tête, with both men growing increasingly frustrated with each other. Apparently, things got so heated that the fire captain was even put in the line of fire, with his tribe members worried he'd be an obstacle to them in the future. Luckily, Joe was able to survive and, in doing so, locked in with his people at the swap. Unfortunately, as the game turned individual, his "team" was suffering massive casualties. Old-school was getting schooled at certain points, and while Joe was always in the know, he had to watch as close allies like Colby Donaldson, Coach Wade, and Stephenie LaGrossa Kendrick fell by the wayside.

At the Final Nine, Joe and Jonathan Young were the lone soldiers remaining. But they were far from down and out, able to capitalize on some key opportunities to take out the biggest threats left in the game. And yes, that includes Rick, whose actions of throwing Stephenie under the bus at Tribal Council had him reach a whole new level of distaste. The path was laid for Joe to have a repeat performance from his original season, down to being picked to sit in the Final Three (this time by Aubry Bracco). Unfortunately, the same outcome was fated to repeat as well. While the jury had respect for Joe, it was clear they did not see his game as a winning one, as seen through the number of flaws he listed out. But he still ends his second season with the distinctions of never having been voted out, winning the third-most Immunity Challenges of all time, and making his way to scripted TV in a new Tyler Perry TV show.

The day after the finale, Joe talks with Parade about his reaction to the reception he got at the final Tribal Council, his complicated relationship with Rick, and whether he feels he can truly change his game for a possible third season.

Related: Read our Survivor 50 pre-game interview with Jonathan Young

How are you doing this morning, Joe? What's your headspace after finishing in the exact same position as you did last time, but in a completely different way?
Honestly, Mike, I'm just filled with gratitude. There's all this talk, and most people lead with negativity, right? This is not blowing smoke. I got on Survivor, the initial blow was from my sister. And I was just on the tail end of a beautiful, brutal divorce. And anyone in production that knows me, my journey from then to now, I feel like I won. I really do. It isn't that I didn't want to win and get first. But no one can take away getting back to the Final Three. So what I'm feeling is, when I look at my torches at my house now, two of them, they've never been snuffed. [Most] people can say they haven't been voted out. That's a great feeling, man. So I feel great.

Let's get into how Day 26 went for you this time around. From our perspective, it seemed like the conversation was around Aubry or Jonathan. Did you get that sense as well? What was your reaction to how you were treated by the jury?
I mean, this is the truth about it. The second I sat on that stool, regardless of what anyone's truth says it is, I could tell right away. I could point out the people that were like, "Hey, I don't like Joe," or whatever reason. They can say whatever they want. I knew. I could count. I could tell you right now, like, "You're not voting for me." It didn't matter what I said. And I was like, "Do we have to do this? I can get up and go". So, there was that.

And then the other piece is within that, if you really go back and watch the film, I'm big on watching film. It's a question on top of a question. So it'd be like, "Hey, I want to ask this," and then someone would chime in. They all wanted their time. So it's like," I'm gonna ask a question to Joe, and the three of us." And then another person would lead into it, and I lead into it, and then we would never go back to the original question. People like Emily Rick Devens, Christian, Dee were very good, I felt, at making us all feel heard. They did a good job of like, "This is a discussion. Give them all a chance." Not, "Oh, you don't understand this, you don't understand that." They got it. So I could tell I was cooked before we opened our mouths.

What was your reaction when Cirie mentioned the "Joe-tation"? And generally, the perception from some people that they had to play around you, and you had to be monitored?
I mean, it's a great question. I won't comment. I'm not going to comment on it. I feel that the tone of it, I won't comment on that. But I'll say this, anyone out there that I got vulnerable with, that's what I do with my people. For my people, I'm going to vent to you like I would no one else. People I don't like, my enemies, when you ask me a question, I don't say a word to you. Or I say things like, "It's great, we're good, we're having a good time." But then when I open up to you about, like, "I can't believe this," it's like your spouse.

I thought we were in that zone where I could [do that]. And if that's going to be taken as out of context to managing me, that sucks. I misread the relationship. And that's okay; that's part of the game. This isn't about feelings, or "you can't handle this." There's nothing to do with that. If you walk into an arena with me, and you want to play like that, we can play like that, right? It's more about, I misread it, and that's my fault again. And it's not against the rules, it's not a bad thing. It's just okay. I didn't know that, and, if I play again, okay, different outcome.

To that point, let's talk about one of your most vocal opponents this season: Rick Devens. It's clear the two of you just have fundamentally different thoughts on the game, which bore out in this argument that was apparently even worse than what we saw on TV. Talk to me about what your dynamic was like throughout the entire season.
This is what's hilarious. I saw some exit press, like, "It's the worst argument." Listen, I was raised in a firehouse. I was raised in a Division One football locker room. And when I heard that, I'm like, "That's the worst argument you've ever heard or seen?!" This hype was like, "Okay, this is the route we're going." So that got under my skin, and it's because I love Rick Devens.

I regret ever even saying a bad word about Rick Devens in the game, because it was an emotional reaction. He's a great father, great husband, and what's funny is that was the story. And believe me, that's not the story. I can't say enough kind things about him. His exit press, I feel, was the same way. The only thing I regret is all the moments of passion.

And the reason why I wanted Rick out is he's one of the best to play the game. It wasn't personal. Rick flipped the coin for $2 million. Rick hid a fake idol. There's no better than that in the game. And that's out of respect. It wasn't like, "I want you out because I hate you." This is another father looking at a guy, going, "Man, you're a class act, dude." And in fact, that's the guy I want to play with. You should be able to play Survivor every way. Rick's way is not wrong. That's what's funny. It turned into good versus evil, me being evil. It's so inaccurate. I just respect Rick so much, I really do. And I regret that it was seen otherwise.

What about Jonathan? The two of you were in lockstep throughout the postmerge. What was it like working with him?
I love Jonathan. He's a great man. And he, again, is one of those people that I look at outside of the game, I'm like, "You're a great person outside the game, you're a great person inside the game." I wish they showed that we talked every single day. It's crazy to me they didn't show that, and I just respect his game. But I respect how he not only switched it up, but the way he adapted his game to fit 50 was brilliant. So I got nothing but love for Jonathan. I wish they would have shown our relationship more. He's a great person.

Aubry told me last night that the two of you had a relationship that didn't really make the air. We got a dash of it when she picked you to go to the Final Three, a moment that clearly meant a lot for you both. Talk to me about that.
Aubry, she's so talented. So I'm coming back from reliving my Season 48 moment with Eva, and I'm just kind of in the jungle, reliving that exact place where we did the firemaking. And I'm walking back from that, honestly, no cameras, which I did not want. And I see her running around looking for an idol, and I hear Genevieve calling her name, I'm not kidding.

And I come back, and she whips out of the brush. And I walk up behind, and I go, "Hey," and she turns around. And Aubry's such a real person, such a genuine person. She goes, "Hey." And I go, "Look, I get it." And we had this moment. I didn't talk about it with anybody, I didn't spread that, because I could sense her vulnerability in the moment. She's just trying to play. She's been on the bottom, she's a vet. And in that moment we just shared, this is real. We checked in all the time, because I have parts of her in me, and vice versa. We just checked in on each other all the time. "Are you good, because this sucks." Or, "this is great. She's a real one." I love Aubry. She's a real one.

I want to talk about the third member of this Final Four in Rizo. A secret scene came out around the moment of your meeting, and he commended you for what you did for Eva, since he has an autistic brother. And, despite wanting him out at four, you decide to help him in firemaking. Talk to me more about that.
With Rizo, I had a very special relationship. And I loved the kid, I really did. I know that there's all these things in hype, and all this and that. But when he shared his moment with his brother, that was outside the game, and it chokes me up. I feel he felt me, that I was like, "Okay, I got you." That was a major part of our relationship.

Then I'm in this mode of like, "Man, I'm just gonna play the way that people say I can't play and let everybody do it on their own. I'm gonna let you build fire by yourself. Jonathan built fire by himself. I'm gonna sit here." And I just thought, "Man, I'm so tired of people telling me what I have to do and what I can't do or can do. He's a good kid." Why would you not want to help someone that's going into a fight to make sure to give them a chance. No one can take away the moment that Rizo and I shared with his family and his brother, and I love him for his strength for dealing with that.

What's something that didn't make the edit that you wish we got the chance to see?
All the moments with Colby on the beach, all the moments with Coach on the beach. Colby and I tearing into the chicken, I mean, it was crazy. And then also Genevieve, we had a great relationship. We were trying to build something there to really change the game. My relationship with Emily, you can see in her and her jury questions, she's such a wonderful person. We tried to make that groove work, but we just couldn't.

It seems like you're happy to play Survivor again. But I'm curious, considering how your game was perceived both of your seasons, do you feel like you'd be able to change your approach? Or can you not help but play in a style that's inherent to who you are as a person?
I'll tell you this, my man. When I think about Survivor, it's to make the crowd happy, right? I don't know if I need to carry grenades with dynamite and then just do cartwheels and put on a wig. If I can do the most crazy things, they still hate me. I feel that, at the end of the day, no matter what, I want to encourage anyone, including myself, I would play every single time, and I'm just going to do the best I can.

I think everyone wants to hear I'm going to be a villain. To me, that sounds like you're playing a character. I'm going to be me, and I'm going to try to adapt to the season. Every season's different. If you call me back for 60, I'd be there. And I'm going to just adjust to the season, because it's me, I mean, it's like going into war. It's not like, "Oh, I'm always going to be this way." Whatever season that is, I'm gonna try to swing for the fence. But you can always count on me being real Joe, that's it.

Related: Jonathan Young Reveals Which 'Survivor 50' Player He Thinks Turned the Jury Against Him (Exclusive)

Memorial Day is fast approaching. And while that may mean remembering our fallen heroes for some and backyard BBQs for others, there is a group of people anxiously wondering whether the bank holiday will cause delays in their Social Security payments.

That's because Memorial Day is a federal holiday observed by the Social Security Administration (SSA). And while some of us will still be at work on Monday, SSA employees will likely be enjoying some time off with their families. So, will that cause the final installment of May's Social Security payments to be late? Here's what we know.

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Will Memorial Day Cause Delays With Social Security Payments

Memorial Day falls on Monday, May 25, this year. And while that means a long weekend for most people in the U.S., it could also mean payment delays for those who receive certain types of direct deposit payments, since Monday is considered a bank holiday.

But when it comes to Social Security payments, which are a financial lifeline for many, possible delays can be very scary. Fortunately, it doesn't look like Monday's holiday will cause any serious delays in Social Security payments this year.

However, if you are expecting a payment on a bank holiday (or over the weekend), the SSA says you should receive it on the next business day instead.

Related: You Might Not Be Getting Your May Social Security Check Today

When is the Next Social Security Payment Being Sent Out

The final round of social security payments will be sent out on Wednesday, May 27, according to the Schedule of Social Security Benefit Payments for 2026. These payments will be sent out to recipients whose birthdays fall between the 21st and 31 of the month.

Then, June's payments will resume on the SSA's regular schedule, with Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments hitting bank accounts on June 1. Of course, if your payment doesn't arrive when you expect, there are a few things that could be holding it up.

First, the SSA suggests that you always check with your financial institution when your direct deposit doesn't appear in your account on time. That's because the most common culprit behind late payments is what happens behind the scenes with your bank.

Related: Here's What You Should Spend Your May Social Security Check On, According to Experts

If the bank says they never received the funds, that's when you'll want to reach out to the SSA to see if something is up with your payment. While they are rare, sometimes mistakes can happen that can cause delays with payments.

The best way to get a hold of the SSA is by calling the national phone number at 800-772-1213 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m., local time. You can also contact your local SSA office directly, just be sure to double check their hours before you make your call so you can ensure you'll actually be able to reach someone in the office.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.

Jet Li, a Chinese-born star of movies like Romeo Must Die, The One, and Mulan, always considered ways he could give back, but he thought he’d have to wait until retirement. When he, his wife, and daughters survived the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami in the Indian Ocean, however, he realized he couldn’t wait any longer.

Related: 'Romeo Must Die' Stars Reunite 26 Years After the Original Film

Surviving A Disaster

The Indian Ocean Tsunami hit the region on December 26th, 2004, and took the lives of 230,000 people. In the Maldives, where Li and his family were, 82 people were killed, with 26 still missing. The force of the earthquake that caused the tsunami was so great that it actually changed the rotation of the Earth.

After the ocean floor settled and the flood waters receded, Li took stock of his life. His wife and daughters were safe, and he realized that he couldn’t keep waiting. He needed a change. 

"But then, the tsunami happened. I was only 41 years old and so very close to death. You think about it, and nobody can control how long your life is. You want to retire? Maybe by that time... you might die before you retire. I can be strong, Jet Li, kung fu fighting, but in nature, when a tsunami comes, you're nothing. If you're gone, you're gone,” Li told People magazine in a recent interview. 

Related: Your Perfect Retirement, Based on Your Birth Date

Aftermath

Li began his charity, One Foundation, on a simple premise. If every person gave 1 Yuen, the equivalent of $0.12, every month, then the foundation could make a difference. Many people were skeptical, calling on the wealthy and corporations to donate more. But Li’s vision was of ordinary people helping ordinary people.

It took a while, but the idea worked. After 15 years, One Foundation had donated over $735 million back to society. “Don't think about the cents. It's too small. If everybody put the cents together, let's build the mountain," he noted.

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Small Changes

Like the effect the earthquake had on the planet’s rotation, Li’s idea seemed too small to notice. But small changes can turn into large movements, as Li discusses in his new book Beyond Life and Death: The Way of True Freedom. 

In Li’s book, he reflects on how surviving a disaster that claimed so many lives changed his own life. Instead of waiting to start until he “had time,” Li decided to make the time for himself. 

"That's what I believe, to try our best to change our lives. We can't wait for somebody to save us. We need to do something,” Li says.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.

Off Campus quickly skated to the top of pop-culture consciousness when it premiered on May 13 on Prime Video, with the streaming adaptation of Elle Kennedy's popular Briar University books winning TV fans over with its lovable characters, relatable conflicts and steamy, R-rated romance.

Across eight episodes, the "New Adult" series followed the romantic connections and athletic antics of college hockey players and the women they love, specifically the fake-dating arrangement between music major Hannah Wells (Ella Bright) and Briar Hawks star center Garrett Graham (Belmont Cameli): Hannah will tutor Garrett to ensure that his grades are high enough to remain on the hockey team, while he will help her drum up a little jealousy in her real crush, Justin (Josh Heuston).

Unsurprisingly, the kiddos start catching feelings for real, but throughout they have to deal with their own respective interpersonal dramas, from Garrett's familiar issues with his hockey-legend dad Phil (Steve Howey) to Hannah's lingering trauma after experiencing sexual assault in high school.

All of those plot points come to a dramatic head in the season's final episode (but don't worry there's already a picked-up second season to look forward to), so here's everything that went down both on the ice and off at the end of Off Campus season one.

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Warning: Spoilers ahead for Off Campus season one.

Do Hannah and Garrett end up together?

Yes, Hannah Wells and Garrett Graham ultimately do end up together at the end of Off Campus season one, but not before a few dramatic setbacks.

The eighth and final episode of the season, entitled "The Line Change," board-crashes both of Hannah and Garrett's individual storylines: During a heated match between Briar University and their rival school, Garrett realizes that the player he's facing off against on the ice is actually Hannah's high school rapist, Aaron Delaney (Quinten James). Horrified and furious, Garrett beats the pulp out of Aaron right there during the big game, which leads to his suspension from the team (and the replacement of Antonio Cipriano's Logan as Hawks captain) and him splitting up with Hannah, as he's afraid that he shares the same violent nature as his father.

After a change of heart, though, Garrett shows up to the big pop-music showcase that Hannah has been working toward all season long. She performs "Girl That I Am," a brand-new song she wrote about overcoming the pain of her past assault and moving on via her romantic feelings for Garrett ("I had to trust to feel again / I had to let you in to finally see / I am the girl that I am / Because of the girl I used to be." Following her performance, which garners her a second place standing in the competition, Garrett waits for her in the parking lot, and the duo reconcile their relationship.

Related: Prime Video Quietly Renewed ‘Off Campus’ Before Season 1 Even Premiered

Belmont Cameli and Ella Bright star as Garrett Graham and Hannah Wells in Off Campus

Prime Video

What happened between Allie and Dean?

s Off Campus fans already know, Hannah and Garrett's romance wasn't the only heated hockey connection taking place in season one: their pals Allie Hayes (Mika Abdalla) and Dean Di Laurentis (Stephen Kalyn) were entangled in their own secret affair for much of the first season after Allie broke up with her on-and-off-again boyfriend Sean McCall (Riley Davis).

Allie and Dean's hook-ups started casually enough but clearly grew to something more substantial by season's end, which seemingly spooked the former—to slow things down in their relationship and maintain their friends-with-benefits status, Allie told Dean that they should sleep with other people. Realizing the extent of his feelings for Allie, Dean decides against hooking up with another girl, but Allie ends up having sex with Hunter Davenport (Charlie Evans), a hockey player who just happens to be Dean's biggest rival and newest teammate.

The reveal of not only Allie's one-night stand but also the identity of her partner prompts a physical fight between the two men at a bar while Allie looks on in shock.

Related: Jennifer Lopez Reacts to ‘Off Campus’ Costume Inspired by Her Legendary 2000 Versace Dress

Stephen Kalyn and Mika Abdalla play hook-up buddies in Prime Video's Off Campus.

Prime Video

Is the ending of 'Off Campus' the show different from the book?

Yes, though the majority of Hannah and Garrett's romance stays faithful to Elle Kennedy's 2015 book The Deal, there are slight deviations between page and screen. For example, in the novel, that violent fight between Garrett and Aaron doesn't actually take place on the ice in the middle of the hockey game. In fact, Aaron isn't even a hockey player in the book, and the smackdown actually occurs between Garrett and one of Aaron's friends in a parking lot after the latter trash-talks Hannah following an exhibition game.

Therefore, Hannah and Garrett's break-up also plays out differently on page. Rather than splitting because of that on-ice fight, what happens in the novel is that Garrett's father manipulates Hannah into breaking up with him by threatening to cut off financial support for Garrett’s college tuition if they stay together. However, Garrett doesn't need his famous father's money to continue his education, as he will gain access to a trust fund from his grandfather on his 21st birthday, and the couple resumes their romance.

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Belmont Cameli, Stephen Kalyn and Antonio Cipriano star as hockey players on the fictional Briar Hawks team in Off Campus.

Prime Video

Is there an alternate ending to 'Off Campus' season one?

Yes, along with some tweaks and changes made in adapting the story from page to screen, there was reportedly an entirely different ending planned for Off Campus season one. Series creator Louisa Levy revealed to PEOPLEmagazine that it was "not always the plan" to reveal that Allie hooked up with Hunter in the finale, but the show's writing team "got excited about it because it allowed us to tee up potential future seasons that we might be able to explore."

"We had a different ending that I can't disclose, because it is a spoiler," Levy told the outlet, adding that the reveal not only drummed up tension between Hunter and Dean but also served as a way "tee up a little bit of Dean's backstory that we might be able to get into in future seasons as well." (Things haven't been confirmed yet but it seems all but guaranteed that Off Campus season 2 will have Allie and Dean serve as romantic leads and will follow the plotlines of their book, The Score.)

"Hunter is in The Score. He is in that book, just in a small way," Levy explained. "Being able to pull from the later books and maybe use those characters to build out the initial four books was a fun opportunity."

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