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From sea to shining sea, the United States is filled with breathtaking landscapes for endless outdoor adventure. And while bigger national parks like Yellowstone and Yosemite tend to hog the spotlight, travelers who take less-trodden paths to state parks are often rewarded with lower costs, fewer crowds, and more flexible planning options. 

A new study set out to identify the highest-rated state park among the thousands across the country. After Tripadvisor data was analyzed by RV-rental platform RVezy, South Dakota’s Custer State Park was named the most beloved in the U.S.

Related: Skip Banff and Head to This Underrated Canadian National Park

At 71,000 acres, the state park is among the largest in the country. It’s located in South Dakota’s southwestern Black Hills, encompassing abundant wildlife, crystal-clear lakes, sprawling prairies, pine forests, and granite peaks. The diverse landscape is perfect for scenic road trips and hikes. And with weekly vehicle entrance fees at a relatively low $25, it’s an inarguably high-value destination.

Custer State Park is one of the best places in the nation to see buffalo, boasting one of the largest publicly owned herds in the world. Visit in late September to see the annual buffalo roundup, a stunning spectacle led by cowboys and park staff on horseback. 

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There is no shortage of options when it comes to activities to enjoy in Custer. Hike Black Elk Peak for panoramic mountain views. Needles Highway is another big draw, with unique granite spires rising from the roadside in dramatic fashion. In the hot days of summer, there’s nothing better than hitting the pristine mountain water for paddleboarding, kayaking, or swimming.  

These Other State Parks Made the Most-Loved List

California’s Point Lobos Natural Reserve took the number two spot on the list. It has some of the state’s most picturesque coastlines, plus turquoise coves, ample wildlife spotting, and gorgeous cypress tree groves. 

The eight other most-loved state parks are a diverse mix of thrilling destinations from all around the U.S.: Mount Jefferson State Natural Area in North Carolina, Maidstone State Park in Vermont, Moro Bay State Park in Arkansas, Beartown State Park in West Virginia, Quoddy Head State Park in Maine, Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park in North Dakota, Cedar Rock State Park in Iowa, and Kartchner Caverns State Park in Arizona. 

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"State parks across the United States continue to draw millions of visitors each year, offering a simple and affordable way to enjoy the outdoors," RVezy wrote in its study. "They’re especially appealing for travelers looking for convenience. Many state parks are easy to access, less crowded than national parks, and well-suited for short trips or RV travel, making them increasingly popular among Americans."

Not all hit tracks enter the charts. A 1967 pop ballad that earned an Oscar nomination showcases Dusty Springfield delivering a soulful love song that was developed for a spy comedy film, and went on to become a classic despite its lack of chart success.

Legendary songwriter Burt Bacharach originally intended the track "The Look of Love" to be an instrumental song before Hal David added the lyrics. It was reported that Bacharach was inspired to develop the track after watching the Swiss model and actress Ursula Andress, but not in her career-defining role in Dr. No. Instead, he was inspired by an early cut of her scenes in the James Bond spoof film Casino Royale.

The husky vocals and sensual bossa nova rhythm were exactly what Bacharach and David intended for the film. It was used during a slow-motion scene where Andress's character entices actor David Niven to follow her into a bedroom.

"The Look of Love" was a success for Springfield and the songwriters when it was nominated for Best Original Song at the 40th Academy Awards. That year, the song was nominated alongside "The Bare Necessities," "The Eyes of Love," and "Thoroughly Modern Millie." It lost to "Talk to the Animals" from Doctor Dolittle.

The track never entered the charts as part of the movie's soundtrack, but did later that year. Springfield re-recorded the track in a shorter version for her album The Look of Love, with it entering the Billboard Hot 100 chart at No. 22. Interestingly, her version of the song was later used for another film, Catch Me If You Can.

Mike Myers was inspired by 'The Look of Love' for his own comedy film

While "The Look of Love" was covered by many artists, not many know how it inspired actor Mike Myers to develop one of his most well-known hits, Austin Powers. According to Biography, Myers began reminiscing about the 1960's when he heard the Oscar-nominated track on the radio. It resulted in being part of the inspiration behind Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery, also a satirical spy comedy, with the main character being the archetype of the era.

“It was amazing working with Burt,” Myers said in 1997. “His song ‘The Look of Love’ was the inspiration for this film. It was like having Gershwin appear in your movie.”

Bacharach would actually end up appearing in a cameo role in the 1997 film and the following two sequels.

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

Cruising around the coasts of Europe has long been reserved for the jet-set crowd with a yacht moored in Marbella or Monaco—or a superyacht sat in Saint-Tropez. But you can forget the private pier in Portofino. Thanks to Uber's latest launch, you no longer need a captain on speed dial or a seven-figure sailing budget to spend a day skimming across the sparkling coastline.

Uber's new boat service is betting that travelers want the glamour of a European boat day without the billionaire-sized buy-in—but with their own skipper. Beginning in mid-June 2026, travelers in 23 coastal cities across Italy, Spain, France, Portugal, and Croatia—including, but not limited to, Mallorca, Barcelona, Ibiza, Nice, Split, Dubrovnik, and more—will be able to book boats directly through the Uber app, making it easier than ever to explore Europe's waterfronts and islands.

The new initiative is the result of a partnership between Uber and boat-rental platform, Click & Boat, one of Europe's largest boat charter companies, which boasts a fleet of over 55,000 vessels.

Rather than searching multiple websites, comparing operators, and arranging rentals in advance or in person, travelers can now bring boat experiences to fruition through the same app they already use to book cars and other transportation services.

Users can browse available boats, view pricing, and make reservations directly through Uber's platform. Depending on the destination, travelers may be able to choose from a variety of vessel types, ranging from small motorboats ideal for faster day trips to larger boats that are more suitable for slow cruising and group excursions. They'll even have access to a catalog of themed experiences—from sunsets and water sports to appetizers at sea and day trips to hidden coves.

"The goal of this collaboration is to make sailing accessible to as many people as possible, even those without a license or technical knowledge, and to integrate boating into everyday mobility habits," Click & Boat wrote in a blog post about the partnership in early May.

Related: This Unsurprising European Country Was Crowned a Best Place to Travel in 2026 for Food Lovers

While Uber has not positioned the service as a replacement for public ferries or water taxis, it is designed to give travelers greater flexibility when exploring coastal regions and island chains during the busy summer tourism season. It's expected to appeal to tourists seeking access to off-the-beaten-path beaches, more local coastal villages, and nearby islands that can otherwise be difficult to reach by land transportation alone.

The expansion builds on Uber's growing interest in water-based transportation. In recent years, the company has experimented with various boating services, including private cruises on Paris' Seine River and its long-running partnership with Uber Boat by Thames Clippers in London. That service allows Uber users to book trips along the River Thames from 24 piers across the capital, and it has become one of the city's most recognizable alternative transportation options.

The expansion of Uber Boat across Europe reflects a broader trend among travel companies offering more integrated and experiential transportation options—from Norway's glass-roofed Northern Lights train, up north, to luxury rail journeys with white-glove service across the Mediterranean, down south.

Whether cruising along the majestic Amalfi Coast, hopping around Croatia's islands, or discovering hidden coves across the coasts of Portugal and Spain, Uber is making boating more accessible to everyday travelers.

Jenna Bush Hager just revealed a major "problem" she has with her husband, Henry Hager, on Today—as well as the unique nickname her parents, George W. Bush and Laura Bush, use for each other.

On the Tuesday, June 2 episode of Today With Jenna & Sheinelle, the former first daughter, 44, spoke with Sheinelle Jones, 48, about her parents' go-to term of affection.

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While reading from Jill Biden's new memoir, View from the East Wing: A Memoir, on Today, Jones recalled how she came across a passage that stopped her in her tracks.

"Then she said the part in here that grabbed my attention. She says, 'One time I was meeting with President Bush at the George W. Bush Library after speaking to military families there,'" Jones quoted Biden, before pointing to Jenna and adding, "And then she talks about her mom, Laura, and said Laura came in and said, 'Hey Bushy,' then sauntered into the hallway for a cup of coffee as he smiled at her."

Bush Hager then quipped, "That sounds like you were reading a romance!"

To that, Jones admitted, "That was how it felt. I was on the beach this weekend, and I went..." making a taken-back face. "I was trying to picture your mom sauntering," she added, with a laugh.

"Well, she's such a lady," Bush Hager pointed out.

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Related: Savannah Guthrie Dishes on "Only Time" She Was Jealous of Today Colleague Jenna Bush Hager

Bush Hager then confirmed, "They call each other Bushy. My dad loves a nickname." She noted that George W. called her husband, Henry Hager, "Stretch" before he was even her boyfriend because he's tall. He also calls her "Binnie." And when she was little, her parents called each other "Darlin'."

"I can't remember when Bushy became the thing," Bush Hager continued. "But they both call each other Bushy."

George W. and Laura have been married since 1997. They welcomed their twin daughters, Jenna and Barbara Pierce Bush, in 1981.

Biden's memoir was officially released on June 2.

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On July 9, 2019, American television audiences were introduced to a hit reality dating competition show unlike anything they had seen before with the premiere of the interactive dating show Love Island USA. Viewers watched each season as groups of sexy singles lived together, coupled up (and broke up) as they ultimately decided whether they were here for love or money. All the while, viewers were given the ability to influence the game from choosing who should go on dates to deciding who should be safe from eliminations and ultimately crowning the winner of the season.

Now, after more than seven years and across eight seasons, more than 240 Islanders have entered the Love Island USA villas. Many fans are still asking the same question: How many of these couples actually stay together once they get back home? We’ve broken down each season to see which couples are still going strong in 2026.

Related: Who Is Rob Rausch? All About the ‘Traitors’ Winner and ‘Love Island’ Star

Love Island USA Couples

The latest season of Love Island USA, Season 7, currently has the largest number of couples together, with four pairs dating.

Amaya Espinal and Bryan Arenales (L-R) Amaya Espinal, Bryan Arenales

Charles Sykes/Bravo via Getty Images

The winners of Love Island USA Season 7 didn't become a couple until Day 26. Following the season's Casa Amor twist, which introduced Bryan, the couple navigated the endgame, captured America's hearts, and were ultimately crowned champions. The two decided to choose 'love' over 'money' and split the series winnings between them. However, long-term true love wasn't in the cards for this pairing. Shortly after the Season 7 reunion, the pair announced they had called off their relationship.

Related: ‘Love Island USA’ Winners Amaya Espinal and Bryan Arenales Announce Breakup

Olandria Carthen and Nicolas "Nic" Vansteenberghe (L-R) Olandria Carthen, Nicolas "Nic" Vansteenberghe

Jocelyn Prescod/PEACOCK via Getty Images

Viewers watched as Love Island USA Season 7 breakout stars and runner-up couple Olandria and Nic, affectionately known as "NicOlandria," found their way together. From sharing a kiss on Day 1 to both being dumped from the Island in a dramatic Casa Amor twist, they were reunited and ultimately became a couple, capturing fans' hearts. Since leaving the villa, the two continue to explore their connection while watching each other's dreams come true.

Michelle "Chelley" Bissainthe and Allen "Ace" Greene (L-R) Ace Green, Michelle "Chelley" Bissainthe

"Chelley" and "Ace" came into the Villa having met before the show, but now they were reunited. Now back together on the show, the pair could properly explore their connection, both with each other and with others in the game.

The two finally gave love a chance and became one of the strongest couples of the season. They narrowly missed the finale, finishing in 5th place. But the content creators have defied the odds, proving their bond to be more stable than most of the season's finalists; just not quite stable enough to last a lifetime. They split in December of 2025.

Clarke Carraway and Taylor Williams (L-R) Clarke Carraway, Taylor Williams

Jocelyn Prescod/PEACOCK via Getty Images

Clarke and Taylor's relationship began at Casa Amor, the twist designed to test established couples, in this case, Taylor and Olandria's. Clarke entered as a Casa girl and quickly won over Taylor, who, when faced with the decision, famously declared, "I pick Clarke." That choice proved everything happened for a reason.

Olandria went on to open herself up to an opportunity with Nic. The couple was dumped from the Villa on Day 28. Since leaving the villa, the couple has continued to show fans a glimpse into their lives on social media and maintain a strong relationship outside of the game.

Thomas "TJ" Palma and Iris Kendall (L-R) Thomas John "TJ" Palma, Iris Kendall

Ben Symons/Peacock via Getty Images

Some bonds prove stronger than the Villa. "TJ" and Iris's relationship imploded on Day 24 when TJ was ceremoniously dumped from the Island. Iris moved on with Pepe Garcia, and the two ultimately finished the series in fourth place. However, after the show, viewers spotted Iris and TJ meeting up.

When this was addressed at the Season 7 reunion, the pair insisted it was just for closure on their relationship. However, once Iris and Pepe broke up, in an off-screen recoupling twist nobody saw coming, TJ and Iris decided to give love another shot. The pair is currently happily together.

Serena Page and Kordell Beckham (L-R) Serena Page, Kordell Beckham

Todd Williamson/Peacock via Getty Images

To say Serena and Kordell had an intense season would be an understatement. The Day 1 pairing began their relationship feeling more like friends than lovers. But after a dramatic Casa Amor recoupling, they managed to navigate the ups and downs of life in the Villa and their relationship. In the process, they won over the hearts of America.

Ultimately, the couple was crowned the winners of Love Island Season 6. Viewers watched the couple's relationship continue in the Season 6 spin-off Love Island USA: Beyond the Villa. The couple remains strong today.

Leah Kateb and Miguel Harichi (L-R) Miguel Harachi, Leah Kateb

Jerritt Clark/Getty Images for Skylar

Leah and Miguel's relationship was tested right from the start, with Miguel heading off to Casa Amor just hours after the pair were initially coupled up. But the two proved to have a bond worth fighting for.

After the dramatic fallout of Casa Amor, they quickly were able to get their relationship back on track and ultimately finished the season in second place. Since then, Leah and Miguel have continued to thrive. Their relationship was highlighted in the Season 6 spin-off Love Island USA: Beyond the Villa, and continues to be going strong today.

JaNa Craig and Kenny Rodriguez (L-R) Kenny Rodriguez, JaNa Craig

Casey Durkin/PEACOCK via Getty Images

Viewers watched as JaNa suffered heartbreak after heartbreak during Love Island USA Season 6, until Kenny arrived and swept her off her feet. The two hit it off immediately. After an unforgettable Casa Amor recoupling briefly broke the pair apart, Kenny was able to win JaNa over, and the pair ultimately made it to finale night, where they placed third.

The couple remained together for over a year, with their relationship sharing the spotlight of the spinoff Love Island: Beyond the Villa. However, shortly after filming Beyond the Villa, an incident occurred, and JaNa and Kenny broke up for good.

Related: ‘Love Island USA’s’ JaNa Craig Breaks Silence on Kenny Rodriguez Split: ‘Terrible, Disgusting, and Disappointing’

Kaylor Martin and Aaron Evans (L-R) Kaylor Martin, Aaron Evans

Ben Symons/Peacock via Getty Images

Aaron and Kaylor's relationship provided some of the most dramatic moments in Love Island USA Season 6. Their pairing, often described by fans and later Kaylor herself as toxic, was marked by constant fighting and repeated betrayals. Despite this, the two often circled back to one another. However, after Aaron made moves on another woman, Daniella, during Casa Amor, the damage to their relationship and their popularity was irreparable.

The couple exited the villa before the finale, and shortly after returning home, the two called it quits, as revealed during the Love Island USA Season 6 reunion. Now, they are navigating their friendship in a post-relationship world as seen in the spinoff Beyond the Villa.

Nicole Jacky and Kendall Washington (L-R) Nicole Jacky, Kendall Washington

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Nicole and Kendall had a magical relationship while in the Villa. The two became a couple on Day 8 after a romantic beach date, during which Nicole stole Kendall from his then-current pairing with Hannah Smith. The two navigated their time throughout the villa together. Remarkably, they were the only couple to immediately reunite after Casa Amor, and ultimately came in fourth place on finale night.

Nicole and Kendall's relationship hit a rocky patch almost immediately after leaving the villa, as an intimate moment from Kendall's past was leaked online. The couple attempted to navigate a long-distance relationship, but the damage was done, and they officially broke up shortly after the Season 6 reunion. Kendall has since appeared on the Season 6 spin-off Beyond the Villa and competed in Love Island Games Season 2.

Hannah Wright and Marco Donatelli (L-R) Hannah Wright, Marco Donatelli

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Hannah and Marco began their Love Island journey early on in their season. Hannah arrived as a bombshell on Day 2 and quickly caught Marco's eye. The chemistry between the two was undeniable, and the pair coupled up on Day 5. From there, they spent their Love Island USA experience together, navigating the ups and downs of bombshells and twists.

Along the way, they won the hearts of America and were crowned the winners of Season 5. Today, the couple not only remains together but has also recently announced their engagement.

Related: ‘Love Island USA’ Winners, 24 & 26, Announce Engagement

Kassidy Castillo and Leo Dionicio (L-R) Kassidy Castillo, Leo Dionicio

Sara Mally/Peacock

Kassidy and Leo were Day-One love birds on Season 5. The chemistry shared between the two was undeniable, and the pair quickly became a fan-favorite. They faced their fair share of temptations, with Bergie, Mateo, and a Casa Boy and future Season 6 heartthrob Rob, all vying for Kassidy's heart. But in the end, her connection to Leo proved to be the strongest. The couple sadly didn’t last, with Kassidy ultimately returning in Season 6 and having a brief summer fling with Rob.

Taylor Smith and Carsten "Bergie" Bergersen (L-R) Taylor Smith, Carsten Bergersen

Sara Mally/PEACOCK via Getty Images

To say Bergie’s Love Island journey was dramatic would be an understatement. He was first coupled up with Anna, then briefly with Kassidy, before a shocking twist saved him from being dumped from the island. On Day 21, Bergie finally met Taylor, and the pair quickly formed a real connection. They then navigated the challenges of the endgame together and ultimately finished in third place. Since leaving the villa, Bergie has gone on to compete on The Traitors, and his relationship with Taylor is still going strong today.

Jack Fowler and Justine Ndiba (L-R) Jack Fowler, Justine Ndiba

Mark Taylor/Peacock/ITV via Getty Images

Jack and Justine proved to be fierce competitors and showed that even in a game where the focus is money, you can still find love along the way. The pair won over the hearts of viewers as they tackled all the twists and turns, and challenges that defined the first season of Love Island Games, ultimately being crowned its inaugural champions.

After the show, fans spotted Jack and Justine exploring their connection on social media, but in the end the pair decided to go their separate ways. Since then, Justine returned to compete for a third time in the Love Island franchise on Love Island Games Season 2.

Related: Who Won ‘Love Island Games’ Season 2

Zeta Morrison and Timmy Pandolfi (L-R) Zeta Morrison, Timmy Pandolfi

Casey Durkin/Peacock via Getty Images

Zeta entered the Villa on Day 1, where she quickly met Timmy and the two instantly hit it off. Their relationship was tested by bombshell arrivals, but they always found their way back to one another. The duo became fan favorites and won over the hearts of America, and as a result, the pair ultimately won the season and attempted to make things work outside of the Villa, but eventually called it quits. Zeta later made an appearance on Love Island Games, where she was coupled up with Mitch Hibberd until she was quickly dumped from the Island.

Sydney Paight and Isaiah Campbell (L-R) Sydney Paight, Isaiah Campbell

Casey Durkin/Peacock via Getty Images

To say Sydney and Isaiah's relationship was rocky would be an understatement. The fan favorite Islanders entered the Villa together on Day 1 and quickly hit it off, but their relationship was complicated by bombshell arrivals. Despite the challenges, they found their way back together and ultimately finished in second place. Since then, the couple broke up, allegedly not on good terms. When Isaiah and Sydney both appeared on Love Island Games Season 2, the tension was high, and the drama was inevitable.

Korey Gandy and Olivia Kaiser (L-R): Will Moncada, Korey Gandy and Olivia Kaiser

Sara Mally/CBS via Getty Images

Korey and Olivia both entered the Villa on Day 1, but didn't couple up together until Day 32. Thanks to their individual popularity and electric chemistry, they quickly won over fans and united to navigate the end of the series. The pair were ultimately crowned winners of Season 3. Soon after returning home, they realized their relationship wasn't sustainable and they split.

Related: Everything To Know About The Challenge Season 41

Kyra Lizama and Will Moncada (L-R) Kyra Lizama and Will Moncada

Sara Mally/CBS via Getty Images

Will entered the Villa as a Day 1 bombshell and quickly caught the attention of both Kyra and viewers around the world. Together, Will and Kyra took Season 3 by storm, winning over America and navigating all of the excitement and bombshell twists the series had in store, including an unforgettable romantic beach date. The couple ultimately finished as runners-up. The pair attempted to make their relationship work outside the Villa, but before long decided it wasn't for them and went their separate ways.

Carrington Rodriguez and Laurel Goldman (L-R) Laurel Goldman and Carrington Rodriguez

Robert Voets/CBS via Getty Images

Carrington entered the Villa as a Day 1 Islander, while Laurel joined midway through the season on Day 19 as a bombshell who quickly made a connection with him. Together, they lit up the screen and ultimately finished in fourth place. Although their relationship didn't last outside of the Villa, fans enjoyed their chemistry throughout the season. Carrington later returned to the Love Island franchise in 2023, participating in Love Island Games, where he lasted one day before being dumped from the Island.

Cely Vazquez and Johnny Middlebrooks (L-R) Cely Vazquez and Johnny Middlebrooks

Robert Voets/CBS via Getty Images

Cely and Johnny’s journey began as Johnny bombshelled onto the scene. The two quickly became inseparable, sticking together through all the ups and downs of the season. They ultimately finished in second place to Cely’s BFF, Justine. Cely and Johnny tried to continue their relationship outside the Villa, but Cely decided their differences were too much and called it off, allegedly over a plate of Cheesecake Factory nachos that she paid for herself.

Since then, the two have reunited as adversaries on Love Island Games Season 1. Johnny returned for a third season of Love Island with Love Island Games Season 2, where he shared a scene with Cely during AfterSun.

Justine Ndiba and Caleb Corprew (L-R) Justine Ndiba, Caleb Corprew

Denise Truscello/WireImage

Justine began her Love Island journey as the world was navigating the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. She met Caleb on Day 5 of the experience, but they didn’t couple up until the next recoupling on Day 12. From there, the two skyrocketed in popularity, navigating bombshells, twists, and turns until they were ultimately declared the winners of Love Island USA Season 2, making Justine and Caleb the first Black winners in the franchise.

The pair attempted to make their relationship work outside of the Villa, but eventually went their separate ways. Justine has since returned to the franchise multiple times, winning Love Island Games alongside Jack Fowler, and competed for a third time on Love Island Games Season 2.

Elizabeth Weber and Zac Mirabelli (L-R) Zac Mirabelli and Elizabeth Weber

Colin Young-Wolff/CBS via Getty Images

The inaugural winners of Love Island USA, Elizabeth and Zac captured America’s heart as a Day 1 pairing that set the standard for all Islanders to come. Fans were drawn to the pair's playful dynamic and magnetic chemistry. However, despite surviving 30 days on the Island, their relationship didn’t last long outside the Villa, with reports indicating they had broken up by September of their winning year.

Alexandra Stewart and Dylan Curry (L-R) Alexandra Stewart and Dylan Curry

Colin Young-Wolff/CBS via Getty Images

The fan favorites began their Love Island USA journey on Day 4 and ultimately finished as runners-up to Elizabeth and Zac. Despite their popularity and undeniable chemistry, the pair couldn't make it work outside of the Villa, by November 2019, they had called it quits and went their separate ways.

Caroline 'Caro' Viehweg & Ray Gantt (L-R) Ray Gantt and Caroline "Caro" Viehweg

Colin Young-Wolff/CBS via Getty Images

Caro and Ray were among the biggest breakout stars of the first season of Love Island USA. Ray arrived in the Villa on Day 12 and quickly coupled up with Caro. The pair navigated the challenges of the show together and finished in third place.

After the Villa, their popularity remained strong, and they competed on The Amazing Race Season 33. However, their journey was cut short. The couple only finished the third leg of the series before production was suspended due to rising concerns about the COVID-19 pandemic, causing international travel restrictions.

The couple eventually broke up, with their journey reaching a dramatic conclusion in an explosive moment on the MTV series Ex on the Beach, where Ray admitted to cheating on Caro and she proceeded to throw a drink in his face before being removed from the game.

Related: Where is Every 'Big Brother' Showmance Now?

Howie Mandel'swife keeps a relatively low profile, but she has been a huge influence on his life.

The America's Got Talent judge has been married to Terry Mandel for more than 40 years, and even though he's the comedian in their relationship, he credits her sense of humor as a big reason they've been able to go the distance.

"[Terry] made me laugh. It was wonderful to meet a witty woman," he gushed to Good Housekeeping. "Spending your life with someone who doesn't have that wouldn't be palatable."

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It also helps if your partner helps you make life-changing decisions that make you rich! Howie previously revealed to the Gazette that she urged him to sign on to host Deal or No Deal, which he'd been ambivalent about prior to her encouragement, and that it wasn't out of the ordinary for her to push him toward success.

"The secret for me is my wife," Howie, who has been open about his struggle with obsessive compulsive disorder, told Streets of Toronto in 2023. "People have seen me on television or in concert and think I’m fun, and I probably am for a couple of hours, but living with me is not easy. I have a hard time living with me, and I'm seeing professionals to learn to cope with myself, and I take medication, so the fact that she has put up with me for 43 years is amazing. This question is for her. If there are any awards to be given out, please give them to my wife. She deserves it. I appreciate her and feel like the luckiest guy in the world."

Get to know Howie Mandel's wife Terry Mandel and find out how they met and more.

Related: ‘America’s Got Talent’ Returns for Season 21—With a Brand-New Twist

Who is Howie Mandel's wife? Howie and Terry Mandel in December 2006

Photo by Mark Sullivan on Getty Images

Howie Mandel's wife is Terry Mandel, his childhood sweetheart. The pair married on March 16, 1980, and their engagement and honeymoon both were less than romantic—which Howie has said is on brand for him.

He told Streets of Toronto of his proposal, "I was sitting in a deli, and I'd bought a loose diamond, and I put it on the table and said, 'I got to go to the bathroom, but if you want to make a ring go ahead.' I'm not a romantic; neither of us is romantic."

He added, "One time in 43 years, I brought flowers home, and she said, 'Where did you get these?' The truth is, I did take them from the set that I was working on."

After tying the knot in Toronto, Howie recalled, "We went to Yuk Yuk’s for our honeymoon. I was already living in Los Angeles, and we had to fly up for the wedding. We barely had enough money to buy the plane tickets for the wedding, so I timed it as a business trip (although I didn’t have big business then). Mark Breslin of Yuk Yuk’s gave me a feature, and the day after our wedding, she was sitting on a stool beside me on the stage at Yuk Yuk’s, and I explained to the audience that this was my honeymoon show. Again, I’m not a romantic, but this was a moment that she’ll never forget (or she’ll never let me forget!)."

Related: Howie Mandel Talks High Cholesterol: 'I Had No Idea Because You Don't Feel Anything'

How old is Howie Mandel's wife?

Born Aug. 26, 1955, Terry Mandel is 70 years old at the time of this writing in late May 2026. She's three months and three days older than Howie, whose birthday is Nov. 29, 1955.

How many wives did Howie Mandel have?

Howie has only ever been married once, and that's to Terry!

What does Howie Mandel's wife do for a living?

Terry is credited as a talent manager and has a producer credit on the Cinemax Comedy Experiment.

Related: Howie Mandel’s Net Worth in 2026 Proves He’s Got Talent

What happened with Howie Mandel's wife?

In February 2024, Terry had an accident in a Las Vegas hotel room that left her with a bleeding cheek and a terrified Howie.

He recounted on Live! With Kelly and Mark that Terry took a tumble and hit her head on the wainscoting of the hotel room wall.

"I wake up, I turn on the light, I looked around the bed. She's in the corner face down, and I didn't know she cut her head, but blood is wheeling out and I just—I freaked out," he said.

Howie recalled that Terry asked for ice, but they didn't have any in the room at the time, so he offered her a cold soda can. She furiously flung the can across the room, complaining that it "hurt [her] face." Howie said that when he finally could see her face, he could actually see her skull peeking through a large cut on her forehead, which sent him into a tizzy.

"I went, 'Oh, my God. This is the love of my life. This is my everything. That's anything I have.' So I freaked and I call down the front desk, I go, 'You gotta call 911!'"

She had a broken cheek in addition to the deep gash in her forehead, but has since recovered fully.

Howie later clarified to TMZ Live that while many speculated that Terry may have been drunk at the time of the fall, she hadn't been drinking at all—but she had been a little high.

"She wasn't drunk! She's so worried that people are going to intervene," he said. "She doesn't have an alcohol problem. I'm gonna tell you the truth—she took gummies."

Related: Who is Sofia Vergara Dating Now? All About the Modern Family Star’s Romantic Life

Does Howie Mandel's wife speak English?

Yes! Terry speaks perfect English and is a native speaker of the language, having been born and raised in Canada like him. However, some fans thought she didn't speak English at all because they took a joke Howie made in an interview literally: When asked what the secret to his happy marriage was, he joked to PEOPLE that Terry "doesn't speak or understand a word of English ... Communication is overrated. I've been married for 43 years and we haven't said a word to each other."

Seriously, some people really do need a sarcasm font to function in this world.

Related: Who Is Simon Cowell’s Fiancée? Get to Know Lauren Silverman and the AGT Judge’s Son

Check out photos of Howie and Terry Mandel

There are several floating online, but honestly, there haven't been many in a while—Howie has literally been photographed more with Terry Crews than his wife Terry in the last decade. Terry Mandel typically eschews most red carpets and popped up more often between the '80s and early aughts. The most recent agency photo of her is from 2011!

Howie and Terry Mandel in August 1986

Photo by Ron Galella, Ltd. on Getty Images

Terry and Howie Mandel in April 1993

Photo by Ron Galella, Ltd. on Getty Images

Terry and Howie Mandel taking their daughter to see "Titanic" in December 1997

Photo by Jeff Kravitz on Getty Images

Terry Mandel supports Howie Mandel at his Hollywood Walk of Fame induction in September 2008

Photo by Jean Baptiste Lacroix on Getty Images

Terry and Howie Mandel in Miami Beach in January 2011

Photo by James Devaney on Getty Images

She usually even stays behind the camera on her own Instagram page, however, we do get some glimpses of her here and there!

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Related: All 20 America’s Got Talent Winners and Their Amazing Talents

How did Howie Mandel meet his wife?

The pair met in line at the concession stand at their local Y, and the way Howie describes his and Terry's meet-cute is truly, well, cute.

"I actually borrowed money from her," he admitted on TODAY. "I didn't know her, and I was short a couple of bucks for French fries and she lent me money. She was, like, 14 at the time and she lent me money. And I've been paying her back ever since."

That said, they didn't begin dating right away: Howie insists that Terry refused to go out with him until he as 19 years old, and their first date wasn't so smooth. While he drove them to the movies in his mother's car, they hit an ice patch. The vehicle "wound up teetering on its side before coming down on four wheels," he recalled to the Wall Street Journal.

Related: OCD Is No Joke: Here's Exactly How Howie Mandel Manages His Mental Health

Kirk Cameron rose to stardom on the hit sitcomGrowing Pains. But in the present day, the actor wants to get as far away from the bright lights of Hollywood.

Cameron, 55, recently appeared on Adam Corolla's podcast and shared that he decided to move his family out of California to escape the state's “terrible politics” and “all the other things that make it difficult to raise a family.”

“When you’re a kid in California, it’s great because your parents are paying for everything,” Cameron said, Variety reported. “So, you go to the beach, you’re hanging out, you’re going snow skiing, you get to eat an In-N-Out burger, you get to get some hot dogs downtown in Hollywood. It’s great. You’re having a good time.”

However, Cameron said things changed when his kids started growing up.

“But then, like my kids, they finally got out on their own, and they realized how expensive it is. They realize how terrible the politics are and all of the other things that make it difficult to raise a family there," he added. "And so all of a sudden it’s like, ‘Oh my gosh, we got to move. We got to go somewhere where we can actually thrive and maybe even just survive.’”

 Cameron added that he “hopes to come back” to California one day.

“Pound-for-pound, I think California has just so much to offer,” he said.

Check out Cameron's interview below.

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Where Did Kirk Cameron Move To?

Cameron decided to move to Nashville, Tennessee. He told Corolla that he's found his niche in the southern city.

“There’s so many creatives here that have good values. They love their family. They’re proud of their country — and the whiskey is great. So, if you like whiskey and hot chicken, Nashville is the place to be," he said.

Cameron Played Mike Seaver on Growing Pains

While Cameron may no longer be hanging out in Hollywood, he was a fan favorite on the hit series for over 150 episodes. Check out a classic Growing Pains moment below:

Related: Beloved ‘Growing Pains’ Mom Joanna Kerns Is Honored by Her Onscreen Son for Mother’s Day

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When it comes to summer earring styles, it’s hard to beat a pair of subtle yet stylish huggie hoops. Unlike oversized hoops that can feel heavy in the heat or swing around during busy days, huggies stay comfortably in place. They’re barely noticeable while wearing them, yet they still add just the right finishing touch to an outfit. Whether you're heading to the beach, running errands, or meeting friends for dinner, huggies are one of the most practical jewelry choices for the season.

If you’re looking for a chic pair that won’t stretch your budget, the Split Crystal Huggie Hoop Earrings from Anthropologie are worth a look. Right now, they’re on sale for 48% off, bringing the price down from $38 to just $20.

Split Crystal Huggie Hoop Earrings, $20 (was $38) at Anthropologie 

Courtesy of Anthropologie

Shop at Anthropologie

Crafted from 14-karat gold-plated brass and cubic zirconia, these earrings feature a secure hoop closure and measure 0.5 inches long by 0.3 inches wide. Their standout detail is the split double-band design, which creates the illusion of two stacked hoops while requiring only a single piercing. The result feels modern, elevated, and effortlessly stylish.

The earrings are currently available in three color options, each with its own personality. The clear crystal version is the most classic choice, offering a bright, diamond-inspired look that easily mimics fine jewelry. The neutral option combines peach, amber, and brown tones for a warm, sun-kissed feel that pairs beautifully with summer wardrobes and bronzed skin.

For those who love a bit more color, the yellow version brings a cheerful, playful energy. The vibrant hue feels especially fitting for summer, adding personality to an outfit while remaining easy to style. 

Related: Kendra Scott’s $30 Rose Quartz Pendant Necklace at Nordstrom Rack Is Dainty, Chic, and 50% Off

One of the best things about these earrings is their versatility. They work just as well with a white T-shirt and denim shorts as they do with a linen dress or tailored blazer. Their compact size also makes them ideal for creating an ear stack. You can wear them as your main earrings or pair them with studs and other hoops for a layered look.

They also make an excellent gift. The unique split-hoop design gives them a designer-inspired appearance that looks far more expensive than their $20 price tag. Unlike rings or statement jewelry, huggies are generally easy to gift because they suit a wide range of personal styles and don't require sizing. Their balance of sparkle and simplicity gives them broad appeal across different ages and aesthetics.

One reviewer shared, “I love these! They’re small and dainty and have the prettiest colors!” Another shopper who purchased the pair for their daughter wrote, “They’re super cute and delicate huggies!”

Shop More Deals

• Floating Crystal Bracelet, $22 (was $32) at Anthropologie
• Delicate Mixed Stone Necklace, $30 (was $48) at Anthropologie
• Delicate Chroma Hoop Earrings 2-Pack, $30 (was $54) at Anthropologie

For a breezy, everyday accessory that feels perfectly suited to summer, the Split Crystal Huggie Hoop Earrings are an easy choice. With Anthropologie’s current 48% discount, you can score this stylish pair for just $20 and save nearly $20 in the process.

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.

If you saw Jason Alexander out and about, you'd probably recognize him with ease, because he really hasn't changed much since starring on Seinfeld in the 1990s.

Alexander, 66, was spotted in Los Angeles over the weekend. In photos published by the Daily Mail, he was seen wearing a plaid button-down shirt with a suit jacket over top along with a pair of jeans and some sunglasses. He has his sleeves rolled up and wore a wristwatch. Perhaps the only thing really different about Alexander is that he has a goatee—and it's completely gray.

Many Seinfeld fans reacted to the photos in the comments section of the Daily Mail's post.

"He is [wearing the] same shirt and looks great," one person wrote.

"He looks great and doesnt seem to have aged. I love him," someone else said.

"Always dapper; carries himself well. I like him," a third comment read.

"He looks almost the same. He just grew a beard and gained a few pounds. It's not like when you see some celebrities from the 90s, and they are unrecognizable," a fourth reader noted.

Jason Alexander attends the opening night performance of "Brigadoon" at the Pasadena Playhouse on May 17, 2026.

Paul Archuleta/Getty Images

Alexander isn't usually seen walking around Los Angeles, though he is still very active in Hollywood. He's been working on several projects, most recently serving as director for the dark comedy play "Fault" in Chicago. He also has his own podcast, "Really No Really," which he co-hosts with Peter Tilden.

Last month, Alexander was on-hand for the opening night performance of "Brigadoon" at the Pasadena Playhouse in Pasadena, California.

Books and screen adaptations have grown increasingly inseparable in recent years. As bestselling novels continue to fuel film and TV hits, Netflix has unveiled a new hub dedicated to fans of literary adaptations.

On June 2, the streaming platform announced that bookworms are in for a special treat as they are turning your "homepage into your favorite bookstore" with the introduction of "Watch Your Favorite Books." Now live, the new hub is a place for fans to rediscover old favorites, adaptations they never knew existed, or binge-worthy content worth watching.

The "Watch Your Favorite Books" hub gives fans an array of novels and book series that have been turned into popular TV adaptations or award-winning movies. The team at Netflix organized the hub around nine distinct categories based on each type of reader. Readers who love a good romance will easily find an adaptation with a good plot twist or one that will make them swoon. Explore the nine categories below that might have fans reading and watching at the same time:

• You Crave Amazing Characters
• You're into Immersive World-Building
• You Love a Great Plot Twist
• You Savor Swoonworthy Romances
• You're a Nonfiction Fanatic 
• You're a History and Period Piece Buff
• You Adore All-Ages Adventures
• You Collect Manga and Comics
• You're Wild About Web Stories

“We’ve seen a real passion from fans around Netflix’s library of book adaptations. Our team looked to celebrate that fandom by creating a destination on Netflix for enthusiasts to explore their favorites and find more stories they’ll love," said Mansi Patel, Netflix’s Senior Director of  Product Merchandising.

"Built on our recently redesigned experience and the success of earlier fan-inspired collections, such as ‘Your Zodiac Watchlist,’ ‘Watch Your Favorite Books’ brings together our library of book-inspired entertainment into one engaging, immersive space, making it fun and exciting to find what to watch next based on your personal taste and reading style."

Netflix added that they are excited to see how avid readers and fans of great storytelling dive into a world of "book-inspired entertainment." The hub includes hits like Remarkably Bright Creatures, Interview with a Vampire, Orange is the New Black, Mindhunter, and hit series like Rizzoli & Isles, Bridgerton, and more. Manga fans can also explore anime adaptations from One Piece to My Hero Academia.

Related: Ted Danson Reveals He Felt Undeserving of His 'Sex Symbol' Status During 'Cheers' Fame

Gayle King is opening up about some of the most personal parts of her life.

The CBS Mornings co-host appeared on Alex Cooper's Call Her Daddy podcast, where she discussed her decades-long friendship with Oprah Winfrey, the long-running rumors about their relationship, dating, and the painful end of her marriage to William Bumpus.

During the episode, King said that the speculation that she and Winfrey were secretly in a romantic relationship once bothered her, especially because she felt it affected her dating life.

"If we were gay, we would tell you," King said, according to Entertainment Weekly.

King said the rumors became especially frustrating after her divorce, when some people speculated that her close friendship with Winfrey was to blame for the end of her marriage.

Gayle King Says the Gay Rumors Once Affected Her Dating Life

Getty Images

King told Cooper that the speculation bothered her enough that she once asked Winfrey to publicly shut it down.

According to Entertainment Weekly, King said she wanted Winfrey to address the rumors on her show, but Winfrey did not think it was necessary.

Over time, King said she learned to worry less about public speculation. She also made it clear that she and Winfrey have a friendship that has lasted for nearly 50 years, built on honesty and mutual support.

King and Winfrey first met while working at a Baltimore television station in the 1970s. Their friendship has since become one of the most recognizable relationships in media, with the two often speaking publicly about how important they are to each other.

Related: Gayle King Recalls the Moment She Found Her Husband Cheating With Her Close Friend

King Joked About Dating Preferences

King also shared some of her dating preferences with Cooper, including the quality she finds most attractive. The journalist said she is drawn to a "guy with a sense of humor" and "somebody that can make you laugh," according to Page Six.

King also said smoking is a first-date dealbreaker and admitted she prefers someone a little younger.

"Somebody that can pick me up and carry me across the room. And doesn't go, 'Oh, my back.' I want that," King said.

She also joked that men her age can sometimes be less exciting. "Guys my age, they tend to be a little boring," King said. "You can't generalize, but that has been my experience so far."

As for her ideal date night, King said she likes a classic dinner-and-movie setup.

"I love a good restaurant," she said. "I love a movie. I like a restaurant, movie, then we can talk about the movie. I love that."

King Also Opened Up About Her Divorce Gayle King

Photo by John Shearer/Getty Images for The Recording Academy

King also discussed the end of her marriage to William Bumpus, whom she married in 1982. The former couple later divorced after King discovered Bumpus had been unfaithful with one of her friends.

"I came home and caught him," King said on the podcast, according to Page Six.

King recalled seeing the other woman in a towel and saying, "I thought we were friends!" She admitted that looking back, the comment "sounded so pitiful."

After the podcast episode aired, Bumpus issued a public apology. People reported that Bumpus said he was "haunted" by his past actions and apologized to King, their children, and their grandchildren. King and Bumpus share two children, Kirby and William.

Related: William Bumpus Breaks Silence on Affair That Ended Marriage to Gayle King After Her Shocking Confession

On Call Her Daddy, King also spoke about sexism, racism, aging and confidence. The conversation brought King into a younger podcast space and introduced her story to a different audience.

For King, the episode offered a chance to speak more directly about the rumors, relationships, and painful experiences that have followed her publicly for years.

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Congratulations to Sir Idris Elba. England’s King Charles knighted the actor on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, in a regal ceremony at Windsor Castle.

Forget about James Bond, 007 has nothing on Elba. The celeb recently received one of the highest honors, not for his acting ability (though it is revered), but for his service to young people. 

Elba is much more than just another famous face. Sir Idris and his wife, Sabrina Elba, founded the Elba Hope Foundation, an organization that partners with local leaders and institutions to address youth unemployment, education gaps, and food insecurity. 

According to the Foundation’s website, the Elbas have helped to raise over $1.75 billion to fight rural poverty, $2 million for the COVID-19 Rural Poor Stimulus Fund, and $6 million for debt relief in Somalia.

In January, Elba opened up to People at the Season 2 Hijack premiere, sharing (about his knighthood), “I haven’t really spoken about it, but I will say that it’s a real honor to be recognized for the work.” The actor added, “Especially trying to make as much noise for young people and the things that some of them are going through. So it feels like an honor. My family is honored by it. I don’t even know how to talk about it.”

The Royal Family Instagram account posted photos of the event on Tuesday with the caption, “Congratulations to everyone who received honours at today’s investiture ceremonies, hosted by The King at Windsor Castle.” 

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Elba has a long history with the monarchy, crediting King Charles and The King's Trust (then the Prince’s Trust) for helping him to get where he is today, saying in an Instagram video, “When I was about 18 years old, I had the wonderful experience of auditioning for The Prince’s Trust. I was awarded 1,500 pounds by The Prince’s Trust that gave me my start and my career.” 

Along with Elba, figure skating duo Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean received a damehood and knighthood, actor/author Meera Syal received a damehood, entertainer Paul Elliot received the honor of MBE (Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire), and Betty Brown received an OBE (Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire) for her services to justice.

Kenny Rogers' widow is keeping the beloved singer-songwriter in her heart on what would have been their 29th wedding anniversary.

Wanda Rogers, who tied the knot with the "Lady" singer in 1997, took to Instagram on Monday, June 1, to mark the emotional milestone following Kenny's death in March 2020 at the age of 81.

"Today is the most special day for me: our wedding anniversary," Wanda, who shared twin sons Justin and Jordan with the late musician, wrote alongside a wedding photo in a message posted on the "If I Ever Fall in Love Again" artist's official Instagram. "Even though I can’t touch you, I hold you in my heart forever, Kenny… Justin, Jordan, and I miss you so much. Love, Wanda."

The remainder of the caption recalled the "beautiful ceremony" that took place at Kenny's ranch almost three decades ago in Athens, Ga., which featured a special wedding song written for Wanda by the Grammy-winning artist, as well as his bandmates Warren Hartman and Steve Glassmeyer, titled "As God Is My Witness."

The wedding song includes romantic lyrics such as, "Once in a lifetime, the right love comes by / And with no rhyme or reason, you never know why / You wake up one morning and nothing is the same for you," as well as, "As God is my witness, I'll give you all my love."

Kenny was previously married to Janice Gordon, with whom he shared daughter Carole, from 1958 to 1960. He then tied the knot with Jean Massey later that same year, and the two went on to divorce three years later before "The Gambler" singer married his third wife, Margo Anderson. Kenny and Anderson welcomed son Kenny Jr. before divorcing in 1975, after which the late country music legend married Marianne Gordon two years later. Kenny and Gordon then split in 1993 after welcoming son Christopher together.

Hobbies are often hand-waved away as something "unimportant" or "unproductive." Kids in particular can be placed on the hamster wheel of achievement culture, always striving to ace the next test in preparation for college, even if they're only in 2nd grade. For this reason, and more, child psychologists actually think of having special pursuits like this as an underrated part of childhood (and adulthood, for that matter).

"Hobbies are activities or interests kids do because they truly enjoy them," explains Dr. Caitlin Slavens, BAACS, MC, R Psych, a psychologist. "[They] help kids find a sense of identity beyond school and other things that are more goal or achievement-driven."

Dr. Slavens loves that unique pastimes can help kids develop confidence, problem-solving skills, patience and creativity. Some can even help facilitate social connections.

"Plus, hobbies give kids a healthy way to handle stress and let them feel capable in new ways," she shares.

If your kid doesn't currently have one, the psychologist encourages you to let them try out different activities.

"Kids tend to stick with activities that truly interest them, rather than ones adults pick out for them," she notes. "When children get to choose their own hobbies, it can help build independence, motivation and develop self-awareness."

While the best hobby for kids is the one they like, child psychologists have some personal favorites, and they all agreed on which one they consider "top dog." Below, three child psychologists reveal their favorite pastime for kids, why it's great and a few other ideas. They also share some problematic ones to avoid or keep an eye on.

Related: The 16 Best ‘Analog Hobbies’ to Pick Up in 2026

The Best Hobby for Kids, According to 3 Child Psychologists

The answer to this may surprise you if you think of hobbies as just arts and crafts. Child psychologists love the arts, but they all agree that unstructured outdoor play with their friends is the best activity for kids.

"Unstructured outdoor play is so beneficial for kids because they get to move their bodies, use their creativity, become more independent, solve problems, learn social skills and reduce stress, all at once," Dr. Slavens tells Parade.

Another psychologist agrees.

"Unstructured outdoor play with friends supports emotional regulation, creativity, physical health, independence, social skills, resilience and stress reduction," says Dr. Holly Schiff, Psy.D., a licensed clinical psychologist who treats children.

Maskot/Getty Images

Free play with pals is great, regardless of where it happens. Yet Dr. Brett A. Biller, Psy.D—the mental health director at Audrey Hepburn Children’s House at Hackensack University Medical Center—especially loves the outdoor component. He says the outdoors offers an "ever-changing and expansive environment, where children have the freedom of movement among natural elements."

It's quite the bang-for-your-buck activity, but unstructured outdoor play is increasingly getting deprioritized. In a recent policy statement on the value of recess and breaks throughout the school day, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) cited data that this is declining in schools. The AAP also called for recess in high schools; Dr. Schiff notes teens don't "outgrow" the need for unstructured outdoor play.

"Teens still benefit enormously from unstructured social time, outdoor activity and opportunities to decompress away from constant academic, social media or achievement pressures," she shares. "Adolescents still need opportunities for exploration, autonomy, and authentic peer connection."

For teens, she says this might look like:

• Walking with friends
• Hiking
• Biking
• Hanging out outdoors
• Spontaneous group activities
• Simply having unscheduled time together without adult structure

Related: We Asked 3 Child Psychologists What Phrase To Avoid With Kids—They All Said the Same Thing

3 Reasons Why This Activity Is Great for Kids1. It's outdoors

They don't call it the "great outdoors" for nothing.

"Outdoor play naturally supports sensory regulation, movement, exploration and stress relief," Dr. Schiff says. "Kids tend to move their bodies more freely outside, engage their imagination differently and experience lower levels of overstimulation compared to highly structured indoor environments."

She notes that exposure to nature can improve attention, emotional regulation, stress levels and mood.

"Being outdoors encourages curiosity and flexible thinking because children interact with dynamic environments rather than predetermined outcomes or screens," she adds.

2. It's unstructured

Not everything in a child's life needs to be scheduled down to the second. But Dr. Biller worries that Western society has already prioritized putting children into activities controlled by adults, and evolving technology is also threatening to decrease our quality of life. He says preserving unstructured free play is important to keeping children's emotional well-being front and center.

Dr. Schiff agrees.

"Many children move from school to homework to organized activities with very little true downtime," she notes. "Unstructured play gives kids something increasingly rare, which is the opportunity to direct themselves."

Related: A Psychologist Is Begging Parents and Grandparents To Prioritize This One Surprising Thing Each Day

3. It's with other kids

Unstructured outdoor play is wonderful solo. But child psychologists share that adding another kid (or more) can make it special.

"Kids pick up social skills most effectively when they spend time with other kids in person, rather than just hearing about kindness or watching it on TikTok or on YouTube," Dr. Slavens points out. "Playing together helps them learn to read facial expressions and body language, learn compromise, deal with disappointment, manage conflicts and repair relationships."

Related: We Asked 4 Child Psychologists What They Wish More Grandparents Prioritized—They All Said the Same Thing

6 Other Psychologist-Approved Hobbies for Kids 1. Reading

Dr. Slavens is a big believer in helping children develop a genuine love of reading.

"There’s something really valuable about kids getting completely pulled into a story and using their imagination in a world where so much entertainment is happening for them, where they don't have to use their imagination," she notes.

She also points out that the key is to let kids pick books they actually like, whether they're graphic novels, sports books, fantasy or something else.

"Whatever keeps them reading," she states.

2. Martial arts

Dr. Slavens says martial arts is especially beneficial with kids who are anxious, impulsive or carrying a lot of energy.

"The structure and repetition that martial arts provides can be very regulating for kids, especially those who struggle with impulsiveness," she notes. "It also builds confidence over time because kids can physically see themselves getting stronger and more capable.

Related: Psychologists Say Parents Who Raise Kind Kids Share These 9 Unexpected Habits

3. Writing

Dr. Biller suggests encouraging kids to pursue hobbies that require imagination, such as writing.

"When a child is able to utilize their imagination, they explore avenues for problem solving, enhance self-confidence, and provide opportunities for emotional relief," she says.

4. Strategy games

Not all gaming is bad (as long as it doesn't get excessive). In fact, some games offer a chance to practice problem-solving.

"Strategy games such as chess and Dungeons and Dragons can enhance social interactions in a less intimidating environment," Dr. Biller says. "Engaging in the activity provides structure to the social interaction that is beneficial for many children, particularly those diagnosed with neurodivergence."

5. Art

Drawing, painting and arts and crafts all make the cut here for Dr. Schiff. 

"Creative activities support emotional expression, imagination and frustration tolerance," she explains. "It also gives kids a nonverbal outlet to process emotions and experiences."

6. Music

Some kids may want to play an instrument, while others may want to sing (or do both).

"Music supports attention, memory, emotional regulation and discipline while also providing a meaningful creative outlet," Dr. Schiff shares. "It can also build confidence over time as children experience gradual mastery through practice."

Related: 26 Scavenger Hunt Ideas for Kids To Kick Boredom to the Curb This Summer

3 Hobbies That Can Be Problematic for Children 1. Excessive social media content creation

"Excessive" is a big keyword here.

"While creative online expression can be positive in moderation, children who become overly focused on views, likes, followers or appearance-based validation may experience increased anxiety, perfectionism or self-esteem difficulties," Dr. Schiff warns. "Young children, especially, are not developmentally equipped to manage constant public evaluation and comparison."

2. Excessive gaming without balance

Dr. Slavens shares that kids and adults can benefit from gaming as a way to make social connections and decompress. But there it's about moderation.

"It becomes an issue when gaming slowly replaces other important parts of life, such as sleep, time outdoors, in-person time with people and school responsibilities," she notes.

3. Highly competitive sports environments

Sports can have their place in a child's life. Dr. Slavens shares that they can be an excellent physical, emotional and social outlet. However, it's possible to go too far—and people (including parents, *ahem*) can lose the plot.

"Sometimes the pressure to win or be the best can take the enjoyment out of the sport," she states. "I work with kids who start out loving their sport and slowly become anxious, hard on themselves or terrified of making mistakes because everything starts to feel tied to their performance." 

Related: Parents and Grandparents Who Raise ‘Successful’ Kids Often Do These 10 Things Differently, According to Child Psychologists

Final Takeaways

Kid-picked special interests are activities they do for sheer enjoyment. The "kid-picked" aspect is important—ultimately, the best hobby for kids is one they'll enjoy. But child psychologists can't help it: they have a favorite. Here's what to know:

• Child psychologists love unstructured outdoor play for kids. The outdoors can be regulating, and the unstructured nature is an antidote to today's jam-packed, rigid schedules. Adding other kids lets them learn to read body language and solve problems. Children of all ages can benefit from this hobby—including teens.
• Other hobbies are also great for kids. Art and writing allow for creative expression, and reading lets imaginations run wild. Gaming can also improve problem-solving skills.
• Some hobbies are problematic. Pastime activities like excessive gaming and social media content creation or highly competitive sports can contribute to less in-person socialization, self-esteem issues and more.

Up Next:

Related: I Tried 10 Different ‘Grandma Hobbies’ for 4 Weeks—Here’s the 1 That Actually Stuck

Sources:

• Dr. Caitlin Slavens, BAACS, MC, R Psych, is a registered psychologist located in Canada and co-owner of Couples to Cradles Counselling.
• Dr. Brett A. Biller, Psy.D., is the mental health director at Audrey Hepburn Children’s House at Hackensack University Medical Center.
• Dr. Holly Schiff, Psy.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist who treats children.
• The Crucial Role of Recess in School: Policy Statement. Pediatrics.

In honor of Marilyn Monroe’s 100th birthday on June 1, a new collection of memorabilia has gone up for auction through Heritage Auctions. From heartfelt love letters written by Arthur Miller to Monroe’s Christian Dior skirt that she wore on her honeymoon with Joe DiMaggio, all this and more went up on June 1.

The star’s Dior skirt was sold the day it was listed, with a starting bid of $20,000. The two-piece skirt suit was from Monroe’s personal wardrobe, and she was photographed in it on January 29, 1954, as she and DiMaggio departed from San Francisco to Japan.

Other items include Monroe’s hairpin, which is still up for auction at a current bid of $1,050. Heritage Auctions said that the pin comes from an auction of Monroe’s estate in 1999, which included “personal clothing and accessories.”

Among several letters is one from Monroe’s ex-husband, Miller. Written on May 9, 1956, just over one month before the two wed, the letter’s current bid is set for $1,000. In it, Miller confesses his deep love for Monroe.

“Pish, I love you,” Miller wrote. “I think I have loved you all my life. Please don't marry Henry or George Sanders or George Washington. What have they got, money? Marry me and I will write you poems and kiss you every few minutes, and love your every footstep. How you gladden my heart! Oh, it was good to have been born.”

Monroe, born Norma Jeane Mortenson, tragically died at the age of 36 in 1962. Struggling with endometriosis, addiction and mental health, Monroe died from an overdose of barbiturates, as her death was ruled a suicide.

In a Vanity FairInstagram post reporting on the auction, some users were excited about the memorabilia, while others commented on the tragedy of it.

“Really the most tragic is that even in death Marilyn is not only exploited but owned by a conglomerate capitalizing off her hard work and every ounce of who she was,” one user said.

Another said that Monroe “is still being exploited in her death."

John Travolta is giving some rare insight into the personal struggles he dealt with following the deaths of both his wife and son earlier in his lifetime, a topic the Grease actor discussed at some length in a recent interview with La Repubblica.

As part of the work he's doing for his new film Propeller One-Way Night Coach, the 72-year-old star specifically said he dedicated the movie to his late wife Kelly Preston, his son Jett, his parents and his siblings that have since passed away.

"I dedicated the film to Kelly, to my son Jett, to my brothers and sisters, to my mother and my father, because they are the model from which this film was born," Travolta said.

In 2009, Travolta's 16-year-old son Jett tragically died after suffering an accidental fall triggered by a seizure. In 2020, Travolta lost his longtime wife Kelly after Preston passed away from breast cancer at the age of 57.

When reflecting on the personal losses he's suffered in the past, Travolta revealed "life has certainly tested me." However, he also said he remains hopeful for the future, plainly stating that it's his "nature is to look for the positive, even in the face of the worst."

"I'm not made to remain absorbed in the darkness," Travolta explained. "I can look at the darkness, but I don't choose to die in that darkness."

As Travolta mentioned, this core belief in light over darkness is a theme explored in the course of his semi-autobiographical new film. Based on Travolta's 1997 children's book, Propeller One-Way Night Coach follows an eight-year-old boy on his first flight in 1962.

To that end, Travolta included an emotional exploration of some harrowing historical topics, as seen through the eyes of the movie's eight-year-old protagonist.

"I wanted this sincerity," he said of the film. "A child's hope and resilience are unique; we adults have forgotten what that means. As a child, I always looked at the glass half full; I thought life could be better."

For years one of cinema's greatest ambassadors has been Martin Scorsese. The legendary New York director has been in the business making films since 1963, and has served as a major figure in the movement to keep film an art. Now, amidst one of the greatest ideological battles in the industry, Scorsese has apparently taken a side on the opinion of generative AI, and that is for.

Today, Scorsese appeared in a video for Black Forest Labs, a generative AI startup in which he was announced to be an ambassador.

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In the video, we can see Scorsese using FLUX, the company's generative AI model to develop storyboards for a film, even comparing the generated storyboards to oil paintings, and describing them as conveying a "cinematic intelligence."

In a statement to The New York Times. Scorsese was quoted as saying:

“I’m interested in the intersection of technology and storytelling, and seeing how that can push the bounds of creativity to create deeper and richer experiences for audiences,” while also adding "cinema is a young medium, only around 125 years old, so we have to be open to how it can evolve."

This has started a massive amount of discourse amongst those in the film community. It marks a major move for Hollywood in the ongoing debate of what to do with generative AI. With Scorsese occupying such an important role in the film space, this decision can be seen as indicative of a softening in opinion toward the technology from the film industry at large.

People took to the comments to give their thoughts on the surprising move from the typically traditionalist filmmaker.

"Kind of disappointing for him to endorse generative AI. He is an artist. He knows the value real humans bring to making a film."

"The storyboard artists who taught me and the people I’ve looked up to my whole life have had their work stolen to make this software possible. I’ve been a board artist for only a few years professionally and I’ve seen my whole industry collapse overnight. Many of my fellow artists have lost their livelihoods so the wealthy few can hoard more money. Art is made by the living. This isn’t art."

“'It’s just pre-production planning' okay sure who cares whatever. The issue is that this is a major and influential voice in filmmaking endorsing AI."

This is undoubtedly a large step forward in for the film industry in terms of its relationship to AI, and there's no telling where things will go from here on out.

Related: Legendary Actor Calls Upcoming Film the 'Biggest Movie He's Ever Done' in Brand New BTS Footage

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If your doctor has told you that you need to work on getting your cholesterol to a healthy place, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed. Chances are, you’ve been eating the same way for decades and now you might have to change that. Even if you are taking cholesterol-lowering medications, diet still plays a crucial role in supporting your cholesterol.

“For anyone trying to improve their cholesterol levels, I suggest looking at their current eating patterns and thinking, ‘How can I add more whole foods into this?’ rather than thinking they need to change out their entire refrigerator contents all at once,” Gabrielle Gambino, RD, an advanced clinical dietitian with the advanced heart failure service at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center, tells Parade. 

When it comes to eating in a way that supports healthy cholesterol levels, Dr. Nadim Geloo, MD, an interventional cardiologist and the senior director of medical affairs at Abbott’s structural heart division, says that it’s important to minimize foods high in saturated fat (found in foods like red meat, full-fat dairy products and palm oil) or trans fat (found in fried foods and many ultra-processed foods).

Related: These Are the 2 Best Cooking Oils for High Cholesterol, Cardiologists Say

Instead, Dr. Geloo recommends eating foods that are high in fiber (like fruit, vegetables, whole grains and legumes) and omega-3 fatty acids (found in foods like salmon, mackerel, flaxseeds, chia seeds, walnuts and olive oil). 

Maybe you already know that foods like red meat and fried food aren’t great for cholesterol. But it’s important to know that sugar impacts cholesterol too. Here, both experts explain how the sugar in ultra-processed foods and the sugar in fruit (including blueberries) impacts cholesterol.

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How Eating Foods High in Added Sugar Impacts Cholesterol

You probably know that eating foods high in added sugar, such as pastries and candy, can impact blood sugar. But it directly impacts the heart too, including cholesterol levels.

“Consuming foods high in sugar, such as pastries, can significantly impact your cholesterol profile, primarily by altering the balance of different types of cholesterol in your blood and increasing triglycerides. When you consume foods high in sugar, it raises LDL and triglyceride levels while lowering HDL or ‘good’ cholesterol,” Dr. Geloo says.

Gambino agrees, explaining that consuming foods high in sugar increases the amount of stored fats in the liver, which are the triglycerides Dr. Geloo mentioned.

“Triglycerides are then packaged into cholesterol transporters to enter our bloodstream. After additional metabolic processes, high amounts of these triglycerides can lead to a decline in HDL ‘good’ cholesterol and increase LDL ‘bad’ cholesterol,” Gambino says.

Related: The One Thing to Do Every Single Day If You Want to Lower LDL Cholesterol, According to Cardiologists

Dr. Geloo explains that high levels of triglycerides can harden arteries, which significantly increases the risk of heart attack and stroke. He adds that this artery damage also increases the risk of heart disease. On top of that, he explains that sugary foods also increase inflammation, which negatively impacts cardiovascular health, making it harder for the body to manage cholesterol effectively. 

How Substituting a Sugary Snack for Blueberries Impacts Cholesterol

It’s clear that consuming sugary snacks in excess isn’t great for cholesterol, but what about fruit? After all, fruit contains sugar too. Both experts say that swapping out a high-sugar snack like a pastry or candy for fruit is a great way to support your cholesterol, especially if that fruit is blueberries.

Scientific research shows a connection between blueberry consumption and healthy cholesterol, showing it can lower LDL cholesterol and help raise HDL cholesterol. “Replacing a sugary, nutrient-void snack with natural snacks such as blueberries to satisfy your sweet tooth can positively impact your cholesterol profile and overall heart health,” Dr. Geloo says, explaining that ultra-processed foods contain added sugars, while fruit contains natural sugars. 

Related: Worried About Your Cholesterol Levels? Try Incorporating These 38 Foods Into Your Diet to Help Lower It

He tells Parade that the natural sugars in blueberries are accompanied by fiber, which slows down sugar absorption and prevents the sharp blood sugar spikes that typically trigger the liver to convert excess sugar into triglycerides.

Blueberries also have less sugar than other fruits. “This means, when you swap out a high-sugar, processed snack for blueberries, you will hopefully see less triglyceride levels accumulate in the body and less insulin spikes,” Gambino says.

Like Dr. Geloo, Gambino points out that blueberries contain soluble fiber as well as antioxidants, two nutrients that support heart health and help lower inflammation. She explains that soluble fiber binds well with bile acids, which are acids that help with digesting fat, adding that these bile acids are created from HDL cholesterol and, once bound, are eliminated from the body.   

The Power of Antioxidants

Part of what makes blueberries, in particular, so beneficial for heart health is that they contain a compound called anthocyanin. “Anthocyanin is an antioxidant compound that is responsible for the blue and purple colors seen in many fruits and vegetables,” Gambino says. 

She explains that antioxidants like anthocyanin help lessen the amount of cholesterol being oxidized, giving these particles less strength to do the damage they normally would. “Anthocyanin can also help ‘good’ cholesterol to become even better at removing dangerous cholesterol out of our tissues for elimination,” she says.

To reap the cholesterol-supporting benefits of blueberries—as well as all the other ways the fruit supports heart health—Gambino recommends eating one cup of blueberries a day, whether you have them plain, add them to smoothies or use them to top off your oatmeal or yogurt. 

As you can see, blueberries may be small, but integrating them into your diet is a great step in supporting your cardiovascular health.

Up Next:

Related: The One Carb (Yes, Carb) Cardiologists Swear by for Better Cholesterol

Sources

• Gabrielle Gambino, RD, advanced clinical dietitian with the advanced heart failure service at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center
• Dr. Nadim Geloo, MD, interventional cardiologist and the senior director of medical affairs at Abbott’s structural heart division
• Wang, Y., Lara Gallegos, J., Haskell-Ramsay, C., et al. (2022). Effects of Blueberry Consumption on Cardiovascular Health in Healthy Adults: A Cross-Over Randomized Controlled Trial.Nutrients. 14(13):2562.

Punky Brewster star Soleil Moon Frye is celebrating her daughter's graduation from high school, and the teenager looks exactly like her mom!

Frye, 49, grew up in the public eye as everyone’s favorite foster child on the iconic TV series Punky Brewster. If you forgot the basis of the series, the show followed Brewster, a little girl abandoned in a store by her mother, who is taken in with her golden retriever, Brandon, by her foster parent, Henry Warnimont, a grouchy older man in Chicago. Punky soon warms his heart and turns his world around.

In the present day, Frye is a successful documentarian. However, her favorite role is being a proud mom. In a series of photos, Frye celebrated her daughter Jagger's high school graduation, and it's almost shocking how much she looks like her mother. While the first photo is a throwback, the next several are shots from the teen's graduation. She's a dead ringer for her mother!

"My sweet baby girl @jagger.blueeI love you SO very much and am beyond proud of you," Frye shared.

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Soleil Moon Frye Has a Thriving Career as a Director

While Frye is always associated with her childhood career, she’s actually a thriving director in adulthood. Last year, she directed Paramount+’s documentary The Carters: Hurts to Love You, about the childhood abuse that Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter and his siblings dealt with. The film was told from the perspective of Angel Carter, who is the last surviving child besides Nick. Their other three siblings, Leslie Carter, Bobbie Jean, and Aaron, all died between 2012 and 2023 from drug-related causes, Variety reported.

View this post on Instagram Soleil Moon Frye and Cherie Johnson Reunited

Cherie Johnson, whose Punky Brewster character bore the same name as her real name, became Punky’s best friend in their Chicago apartment building. But the duo became friends in real life, and they still are tight to this day. As their social media followers found out, they even got together for a slumber party recently. Punky and Cherie are reunited!

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Related: ‘Punky Brewster’ Star Soleil Moon Frye, 49, Celebrates Valentine’s Day in a Plunging Red Bathing Suit

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Icy drink season is officially upon us, and if you're picky about your ice, you know it can make or break your favorite drink. For fans of that soft, chewable nugget-style ice that’s all the rage right now, Walmart has a flash deal that's hard to ignore. The Goosiay Nugget Ice Maker is on sale for just $180, marked down from $1,000.

Whether you're sipping an iced hibiscus tea, mixing up a backyard cocktail, or simply reaching for a refreshing glass of water this summer, this countertop machine delivers the soft, crunchy nugget ice that you can get from restaurants or convenience stores. It has become a favorite among Walmart shoppers, who called it "one of a kind" and raved that it makes the "perfect, soft chewable ice" right at home.

Goosiay Countertop Nugget Ice Maker, $180 (was $1,000) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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At 14.8 by 11.1 by 17.2 inches, it is compact enough to fit neatly on a countertop. It produces up to 44 pounds of ice per day and begins making ice in as little as 10 minutes, so there's always a fresh batch ready when you need it. As one shopper put it, "It is bigger than I imagined it being, but it's not bulky." 

Keeping it clean is also a breeze. Just hit the "clean" button, and the machine does the work for you in about 20 minutes. The ice basket and 1.8-liter water tank are also removable, making refilling and routine cleaning simple and quick. 

While the ice maker isn't silent, (you'll hear a humming sound while it's making ice) reviewers generally found the sound manageable. One shopper wrote that it can be "a little noisy, but nothing too bad," while others said the steady supply of ice more than makes up for it. 

Related: Amazon’s 'Buttery-Soft' $7 Cotton-Blend Oversized Tee Is 'Breathable' and 'Perfect for Hot Summers'

Walmart shoppers have been overwhelmingly positive about the device. One reviewer called it "one of a kind" and a "lifesaver" for keeping drinks cold. Another shared, "We never run out of ice at home now." 

Shop More Deals

• Simzlife Nugget Ice Maker, $170 (was $330) at Walmart
• Philergo Nugget Ice Maker, $150 (was $270) at Walmart 
• Auseo Nugget Ice Maker, $150 (was $197) at Walmart

If you’re tired of refilling ice trays, the Goosiay Nugget Ice Maker offers a convenient at-home solution. At over 80% off, it’s the perfect time to grab one for yourself — but don’t wait too long, offers like this tend to disappear fast!

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