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1979 No. 1 Hit Ranked Among Best 'Soft Rock Songs' of All Time Became a Timeless Anthem

Tue, 04/07/2026 - 5:45pm

In 1979, Christopher Cross released a song that would define the early sound of soft rock.

The single "Sailing" rose to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1980, marking Cross's first major breakthrough and introducing him to a national audience.

Composed of a gentle melody and a classic 70s soft-rock sound, the track served as a metaphor for finding freedom and peace among the chaos of life's challenges. It stood out for its relaxed and distinctive tone, becoming a song to turn on when one wished to calm down and feel as if they were sailing through a cool ocean breeze.

Its unique feel and refined composition led the song to major success. "Sailing" went on to win Record of the Year at the 23rd Annual Grammy Awards, contributing to one of the most notable nights in awards history. Cross became the only artist to win Album of the Year, Record of the Year, Song of the Year and Best New Artist all in the same year.

On his debut album, Cross shared, "I'm a very nonpolitical and nonintellectual lyricist. But people have so many demands on them already in their lives. I'm just trying to give them a little enjoyment and relaxation."

Over time, "Sailing" has played an instrumental role in the rise of soft rock and what would later be labeled yacht rock. Its smooth sound and clear structure helped give the song a lasting presence across radio and streaming platforms.

Decades after its release, the track continues to earn recognition. It was ranked among the best soft rock songs of all time by Ultimate Classic Rock, reinforcing its place as one of the genre's most enduring hits.

More than forty years later, "Sailing" still stands as the song that introduced Christopher Cross to the mainstream and secured his place in music history.

Related: 1975 Classic Was No. 1 Hit Song 51 Years Years Ago Today

Why Taylor Swift's 'Life of A Showgirl' Merch Could Be Yanked From Shelves

Tue, 04/07/2026 - 5:45pm

Taylor Swift's The Life of a Showgirl merchandise could soon be pulled from shelves sooner than you think.

A Las Vegas performer is asking a federal judge to halt sales of the products entirely while her trademark infringement lawsuit against Swift, 36, works its way through the courts.

Maren Flagg, who performs under the name Maren Wade, has been building her "Confessions of a Showgirl" brand since 2014, when she launched a column by that name in Las Vegas Weekly. Over the following decade, she expanded it into a live show, a touring production, a book, a podcast, and a federally registered trademark. She filed suit against Swift on March 30, and this week followed up with a motion for a preliminary injunction to stop Swift from selling merch under "The Life of a Showgirl" name in the meantime, per Rolling Stone.

One of the most interesting details in Flagg's filing is that the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office had already rejected the 14-time Grammy winner’s attempt to register the name, noting it was confusingly similar to Flagg's existing mark. Swift's team proceeded with merchandise sales anyway.

According to Flagg, the fallout was swift—no pun intended. "Within weeks, the name appeared on drink tumblers, candles, hairbrushes, and garment tags,” The filing stated. “Defendants built a dedicated retail storefront around it, launched collaborations with numerous national brands, and filed a trademark application across fourteen international classes, covering everything from disposable napkins to ponchos. They never contacted plaintiff. They never sought her consent."

READ MORE: Taylor Swift Is Being Sued—And the Reason May Surprise You

Flagg's attorney, Jaymie Parkkinen, stated: "Maren spent more than a decade building 'Confessions of a Showgirl.' She registered it. She earned it... trademark law exists to ensure that creators at all levels can protect what they've built. That's what this case is about."

A hearing on the injunction is scheduled for May 27 in federal court in Los Angeles. Swift's team has not commented publicly.

I Tried the Viral Tomato Soup Cake From the ’70s—and Was Totally Surprised

Tue, 04/07/2026 - 5:44pm

There are some cake flavors out there that just make sense. In fact, we'd argue that most of the popular flavors out there seem very fitting for cake territory, be it classic vanilla, chocolate, strawberry or even those a little more creative like carrot or red velvet. One flavor profile that I absolutely could not have imagined in cake format, however, was tomato soup.

Yes, you read that right — tomato soup cake is indeed a thing, albeit a slightly outdated and rather odd one. I first came across the sheer notion of a tomato soup cake by way of this Reddit post, which includes images from a decades-old Campbell's soup cookbook. The cookbook highlights some more normal soup-inspired dishes, like casseroles and stews, but it also includes desserts ranging from old-fashioned gingerbread cake, a quick tomato spice cake, and of course, tomato soup cake.

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Once I got past the sheer shock factor at the thought of infusing canned tomato soup into a cake, I couldn't deny that I was at least a bit intrigued. As someone who bakes regularly, I'm always up for trying new tricks and recipes, even those that seem a bit outlandish. The end result was supposedly meant to taste something like a spice cake, and as such, the cookbook calls for topping off the cake with cream cheese frosting (and can anything slathered in cream cheese frosting really be all that terrible?).

Another perk to this cake recipe is that it doesn't require a whole lot of ingredients and the instructions are incredibly straightforward. So, I did what any good amateur baker would do — I grabbed my can of tomato soup (and other baking essentials), I preheated my oven, and I got to work on trying out the Campbell's tomato soup cake for myself. Read on for my full review of this cake, and whether or not I think it's worth recreating yourself at home.

Related: How to Make Tomato Soup 10x Better

What Is Tomato Soup Cake?

Tomato soup cake is one of those food inventions that likely cropped up more so out of necessity than anything else. According to Campbell's, the first iteration of a tomato soup spice cake recipe would have been published sometime around the 1920s or 1930s, making it a Depression-era dessert that put an inexpensive, easy-to-source ingredient (canned tomato soup) to good use.

Courtesy Julia Duda

Over the decades, publication of tomato soup cake recipes continued, but each new iteration of the recipe would have a slight tweak to keep things interesting (for example, they might call for fewer eggs, different oven temp, and so forth). In present day, there are plenty of recipes online for tomato soup cake, and some of them are as simple as calling for the soup itself, a box mix package of spice cake, and a few other baking essentials.

The recipe I'm following here comes from a Campbell's cookbook that was published in 1976, so it definitely has a retro feel to it. Unlike some other recipes out there, this one calls for making the cake from-scratch (so no box mixes here), though it is ultimately still a very easy recipe and, of course, features canned tomato soup as the star of the show.

It's also worth mentioning that tomato soup cake has quite the loyal following out there. Just on the Reddit post alone that I got the recipe from, there were lots of comments praising the cake, with some commenters even calling it their absolute favorite. "Ok I know it sounds INSANE, but the tomato soup cake is honest to god my favorite cake. It’s so good," one Redditor wrote.

Related: 31 of the All-Time Greatest Cake Recipes Everyone Should Try Once

What Does Tomato Soup Cake Taste Like?

While a name like "tomato soup cake" probably makes you think that the cake tastes like, well, tomato soup, that's not really the case. Just about any variation of tomato soup cake out there is a spice cake at heart, meaning that it includes common spices like cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg or ginger to create that warming effect. The final result is something like a regular, soup-less spice cake or a carrot cake. The soup does add a certain flavor undertone, but not something that screams "tomato soup." Instead, it adds a certain tangy flavor that works well with all sorts of spices and cream cheese frosting.

Related: I Tried the Viral ‘Pumpkin Junk’ Recipe and It’s Pure Comfort in Every Bite

What Does Tomato Soup Do to This Cake?

Courtesy Julia Duda

Tomato soup isn't just thrown into the mix for fun. It actually plays an important role in the cake itself, providing a level of moisture that the cake would otherwise seriously be lacking. With that added moisture comes a cake with a particularly tender crumb (at least, supposedly), and one that is ideally not at all dry or super dense. Of course, like I already mentioned, the soup does add a certain tangy flavor note, but it's one that ends up being very subtle once the cake is baked (and one that certainly takes a back seat to all those spices).

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Ingredients Needed for Tomato Soup Cake

As I've already mentioned, you really don't need a whole lot of specialty ingredients to make tomato soup cake magic happen. To start, there's the cake essentials: flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, eggs and a bit of water. Shortening was a bit of a unique inclusion here (as opposed to something like butter or vegetable oil), but it was an easy ingredient to find in the baking aisle at the grocery store. Since this is a spice cake, you'll also need cinnamon, allspice and cloves. Finally, you'll just need a can of Campbell's condensed tomato soup (it doesn't strictly have to be Campbell's brand, but considering that this recipe came from a Campbell's cookbook, it only makes sense!)

Courtesy Julia Duda

Though this ingredient is technically optional, you may also want cream cheese frosting to top off your cake. You can make a homemade frosting for the cake, but I opted for a can of the store-bought stuff to keep things simple.

Related: We Tried 7 Store-Bought Vanilla Frostings and the Winner Was a Total Shocker

How To Make Tomato Soup Cake

Before we get to any mixing or tomato soup-pouring, it all starts with the prep work. First, preheat the oven to 350°F and grease and flour your baking pans. The recipe provides options for the types of pans you can use, but I opted for two 9-inch round pans so I could layer my cake (8-inch pans or a rectangular pan would also work).

Courtesy Jula

Next, as with many cake recipes out there, move onto the dry ingredients. In a bowl, add your measured flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, allspice, cinnamon and cloves. Whisk to combine these ingredients.

Courtesy Julia Duda

Then, in a sort of unusual move, you'll add wet ingredients straight to the bowl with the flour mixture, starting with the soup and shortening. Many recipes call for preparing wet ingredients separately and then combining wet and dry right before baking, but I sort of appreciated the simplified one bowl-approach that this recipe took.

Courtesy Julia Duda

Next, either mix or beat the shortening and soup into the flour mixture. The instructions in the cookbook call for an oddly specific "300 strokes with a spoon" if you're going the manual route, but I just opted to use an electric hand mixer to make things a little easier.

Courtesy Julia Duda

Once the soup and shortening are fully incorporated, there are only two ingredients left, the eggs and water. Add those right in, mix (or beat) a little more, and voila: tomato soup cake batter.

Courtesy Julia Duda

Now that you've got something resembling cake batter, transfer the batter to your prepared pan(s). I went ahead and weighed my batter in the pans so I knew there was an even amount in both, but of course, this is a completely optional thing to do. Also optional, but I smoothed out the batter atop each cake so that everything would bake up nice and evenly.

Courtesy Julia Duda

Courtesy Julia Duda

Into the oven the cakes go, and how long you bake depends on the size of pan(s) you ended up using. The cookbook itself calls for 35 to 40 minutes, so that's what I went with, setting a timer for 35 minutes.

Courtesy Julia Duda

Once the 35 minutes were up, I used a toothpick to check the doneness in the center of the cakes. I decided to bake them for 2 minutes more, just to ensure that there was no wetness left in the middle.

Courtesy Julia Duda

After the cakes were done baking, I let them sit in the pans for 10 minutes, per the cookbook. After that, I removed the cakes from the pans, allowing them to fully cool on wire racks.

Courtesy Julia

Now comes the fun part: frosting the cakes. Like I said, I opted to use a tub of store-bought cream cheese frosting for convenience, but homemade cream cheese frosting would be just as good (if not even better). You can frost your cakes however you want, but to start, I placed one cake layer on a board and frosted the top of it.

Courtesy Julia Duda

Then, I put the other cake layer on top, trying to line them up as evenly as possible.

Courtesy Julia Duda

With the other cake layer stacked, all that was left to do was frost the top of that as well. I decided not to frost the sides of my cake so I could actually see the cake itself, and because I thought it'd ultimately give my the best cake-to-frosting ratio. Of course, if you recreate this cake at home, feel free to frost those sides to your heart's content.

Courtesy Julia Duda

Once your cake is adequately frosted, that's it! The tomato soup cake is ready for slicing and serving. You could take things a step further and decorate the top of your cake with walnuts, pecans, or even raisins, but I kept things simple so I could really allow the flavor of the cake itself to shine.

Related: I Made Dolly Parton's Famous 3-Ingredient Cake From 'Steel Magnolias'

Tomato Soup Cake: My Honest Thoughts

For starters, I really can't get over how easy this cake was to make. To be fair, most cake recipes out there aren't exactly super difficult to make, but this one required very basic ingredients and a single bowl for mixing everything up. It really doesn't get much easier than that, so I was already pleased with this recipe based on ease alone.

Courtesy Julia Duda

Of course, I know you're wondering a much more important question — how did it taste? I'm pleased to say that the tomato soup cake tasted pretty darn good. It really did just taste like a good old classic spice cake, with those cinnamon, allspice, and clove notes shining through beautifully. If anything, I would actually add more cinnamon than what the recipe called for to really amp up that sweet warmth. As for the tomato soup itself, if I didn't know any better, I wouldn't be able to definitively say that it was there at all. The cake most definitely didn't taste like tomato soup, or even like tomato at all for that matter, but it did have an ever-so-slight tang to it that I appreciated. That tangy flavor was taken up a notch thanks to the tangy cream cheese frosting, and all of that tanginess contrasted nicely against the otherwise spiced nature of the cake.

The texture of the cake is also worth highlighting. I do think that the tomato soup really helped the cake retain lots of moisture, and I enjoyed how tender my slice of cake was. I also think the shortening helped establish lots of moisture in the cake, and though I can't say if you'd get the same results by using butter or oil instead, I do think the shortening is absolutely worth opting for.

Courtesy Julia Duda

Overall, I was very pleased with this tomato soup cake and would definitely make it again. It's one of those simple cakes that you just might have the ingredients for on-hand already (especially if you keep your soup pantry well-stocked), so it's sort of a no-brainer recipe when you want a sweet and spiced treat without much hassle.

Tips, Tricks and Advice for Making Tomato Soup Cake

Although this is a very simple and straightforward recipe, there are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind should you make a tomato soup cake for yourself.

1. Amp up the spices

While I did enjoy the spiced flavor profile that this cake had to offer, I thought that it could use even more spiced goodness. In particular, I'd add more cinnamon if I were to make this cake again — the original recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, but you could easily double that. I also think a dash of nutmeg or ginger would work wonderfully here.

Also, I'd recommend adding a little salt to your cake batter. The recipe doesn't call for doing so, but I do think that even a pinch of salt would help all of the flavors pop that much more.

2. Use homemade cream cheese frosting

While I appreciated the convenience of using store-bought cream cheese frosting, I ultimately wish I'd just made a homemade batch instead. The frosting just tasted so store-bought in my opinion, and I know that I would've enjoyed the cake as a whole even more with homemade frosting. (Of course, if you already know that you really like the frosting from a tub, then you can safely stick with the store-bought route.)

3. Store your cake to enjoy for days

When it comes to storing tomato soup cake, I opted to keep mine at room temperature inside of an airtight cake carrier. The cake was just as good (if not better, but more on that in a moment) the next day, and it was still pretty good by day three as well. I tossed the rest of it by day four, not because it was necessarily bad, but because it was a bit past its prime. The cake wasn't nearly as tender and was starting to taste a bit dry by that point.

You could also refrigerate your leftovers if you want them to last a bit longer (for about five days), and I'd particularly advise that you do so if you opt for homemade cream cheese frosting instead of store-bought.

4. Enjoy a slice on day two

Some online tomato soup cake enjoyers claim that the cake tastes even better the day after it's baked. I could see this being the case even before I tried it myself, as many foods do indeed taste better after all of the ingredients and flavors have had time to meld and get acquainted. And, after enjoying a second slice on day two, I can attest to the fact that the cake at the very least tastes just as good, if not even better with a slightly more pronounced spiced flavor profile.

Up next:

Related: Aldi Is Selling an Unusual Soup Variety, and Shoppers Are Totally Divided

Macy’s 'Cute' and 'Versatile' $10 Pearl Drop Earrings Are the Easiest Way to Elevate Any Outfit

Tue, 04/07/2026 - 5:30pm

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The start of spring makes you want to refresh your wardrobe — and that includes your jewelry box. Whether you’re getting dressed for a weekend brunch, heading into the office, or planning for special occasions like weddings and showers, having a few go-to accessories that instantly pull everything together makes getting ready so much easier. And when it comes to classic pieces, it’s hard to beat the elegance of the Charter Club Bead and Imitation Pearl Drop Earrings.

Right now, Macy’s has this chic pair on sale for just $10, marked down 70% from its original $35 price. Timeless with just the right amount of presence, they strike a balance between understated and noticeable, making them an easy choice no matter what you’re wearing.

Charter Club Bead and Imitation Pearl Drop Earrings, $10 (was $35) at Macy’s

Courtesy of Macy's

Shop at Macy's

These earrings blend vintage-inspired style with modern minimalism. The design features a classic double-drop silhouette, pairing a smaller, high-shine gold sphere at the lobe with an oversized, luminous pearl suspended below, creating a striking sense of proportion and movement. The contrast between the warm metallic finish and the soft, satin-like sheen of the pearl evokes a refined, old-world glamour reminiscent of heirloom jewelry. At the same time, the exaggerated scale and clean lines give it a contemporary, fashion-forward edge. 

Related: Macy’s Has a 'Gorgeous' 8-Piece Stud Earrings Set for $18, and They Look 'Cute' With Any Outfit

Shoppers dubbed these pearl baubles as “cute” and “versatile,” and it’s easy to see why. They pair effortlessly with everything from a crisp white tee and lived-in denim to breezy sundresses, silky blouses, or a tailored blazer layered over a tank. 

These earrings also complement soft knits, button-down shirts, and even more structured pieces, adding a subtle hint of polish without competing with your outfit. If you’re building a jewelry collection, this is exactly the kind of foundational piece that works across textures, silhouettes, and aesthetics.

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With a classic design and a price that’s hard to beat, the $10 Charter Club Bead and Imitation Pearl Drop Earrings are an easy yes. Grab a pair at Macy's before this deal is gone!

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1996 Rock Record Was Just Ranked 'Heaviest Album of All Time'

Tue, 04/07/2026 - 5:28pm

It's not uncommon for bands to tackle heavy subject matter in their albums. However, some musical groups are better at grappling with difficult themes than others.

In April 2026, Collider shared the publication's list of the "10 heaviest albums of all time." The ranking featured beloved albums like Have a Nice Life's 2008 record, Deathconsciousness, Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds' 2016 album, Skeleton Tree, the 2015 album Carrie & Lowell by Sufjan Stevens, Joy Division's 1980 hit Closer, and Bruce Springsteen's Nebraska, released in 1982. The top five featured the 2017 album A Crow Looked at Me by Mount Eerie, the 2002 album, Songs About Leaving by Carissa's Wierd, Godspeed You! Black Emperor's 1997 album, F♯ A♯ ∞, and Lou Reed's Berlin, released in 1973. The 1996 album Soundtracks for the Blind by rock band Swans secured the top spot for the heaviest album ever recorded.

The publication reported that Soundtracks for the Blind came in at number one because it's fearless, yet frightening, and somber.

Michael Gira of Swans Shared What Inspires His Music

In a 2012 interview with Fader, Swans' founding member and singer, Michael Gira, shared what inspires him when he writes his songs. According to Gira, "the fear of death" or "the fear of living a pointless life" has motivated him to make music.

"Try to make something happen that feels urgent," said Gira, now 72.

In a May 2025 interview with Every Album Ever with Mike Mansour, Gira, who is also a member of Angels of Light, shared that he wished he could be more of a storyteller in his songs.

"I wished I could write more topical songs or more kind of storytelling songs. On occasion, I've been able to do so, but nothing comes easy for me. So, I grab what I can get. And if I find words that are kind of multi-dimensional that seem to imply three or four different meanings, then I go with those and I let them lead me where they want and eventually a song takes place.," said the composer during the 2025 interview.

Frankie Muniz Addresses Exaggerated Claims on His Memory Loss: 'It's Not Like I Have Amnesia' 

Tue, 04/07/2026 - 5:23pm

Frankie Muniz is clarifying reports of his memory loss.

The Malcolm in the Middle star was featured on the Tuesday, April 7, episode of the Inside of Youpodcast hosted by Michael Rosenbaum. Muniz clarified rumors regarding his memory loss that arose after his stint competing onDancing with the Stars in 2017.

During his time on the reality competition series, Muniz remarked that he did not remember much from his days filming Malcolm in the Middle. He also shared that he had suffered several concussions and mini-strokes that affected his memory.

"The story of that was taken out of context," Muniz said on Rosenbaum's podcast. "I have no memory issues, I have a bad memory. All these crazy stories have come out where people are like, ‘You don’t even know your [own] wife.' I just have a bad memory."

Muniz went on to explain that he can remember lines without any issues but he struggles to "absorb many things" in his everyday life.

"Since I was eight years old, I have been nonstop doing things — flying here, doing that and just crazy cool things," Muniz said. "I’ve also been an actor my whole life where every single day I’m pretending to be somebody else and having somebody else’s emotions and somebody’s happiness or somebody’s sadness… And they say 'cut' when you’re done with the scene and you forget about it. You never think about it again."

He added, "I’m so used to going, ‘Oh, I’m done with that.’ And I move on so that I don’t even take it in. even my real life. Even my real emotions."

Later on in the podcast episode, Muniz remarked, "I do think I have a bad memory, but it's not like I have amnesia. I have had nine concussions. That doesn't help. But, you know."

Following his career as a child actor, Muniz has been a professional stock car racing driver since 2008. He says his memory loss is still a topic of conversation even outside of acting.

"I’m probably going to make the story about my memory even worse," Muniz joked. "But I’ll do a race with 300 laps and I’ll listen to other drivers be like, ‘Oh, yeah, on lap 157, we were doing this and we were battling.’ I remember, like, two laps of the race that I did the night before," he said. "I’m so focused on what I’m doing— but then I forget it."

Muniz will be reprising his role as Malcolm in the upcoming Malcolm in the Middle reboot premiering on Friday, April 10 on Hulu and Disney+

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Russell Crowe Turns 62 Ahead of New Film ‘Beast’ Release on April 10

Tue, 04/07/2026 - 5:14pm

It’s April 7, which means one thing: Russell Crowe turns 62 today.

The New Zealand-born, Australian-raised actor earned his place in Hollywood history with one of the most decorated six-year runs the industry has ever seen.

Between 1997 and 2003, Crowe starred in four Best Picture-nominated films: L.A. Confidential, Gladiator, A Beautiful Mind, and Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World. Two of those won. He received three consecutive Best Actor Oscar nominations for The Insider (1999), Gladiator (2000), and A Beautiful Mind (2001), winning for his portrayal of Roman general Maximus. That performance remains one of the most recognizable in modern cinema.

Happy 62nd birthday to Russell Crowe. pic.twitter.com/H5w8v3AZMJ

— MCU Film News (@MCUFilmNews) April 6, 2026

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At the peak of that run, Crowe turned down two of the biggest franchise roles in movie history. In a 2019 sit-down with Howard Stern, he said he passed on Wolverine in X-Men and pushed for Hugh Jackman to get the part. "Even if I'd done the film, I wouldn't have carried it through with the grace and the direction that Hugh gave it," he said. 

Crowe also turned down Aragorn in The Lord of the Rings. “I didn’t think Peter Jackson actually wanted me on the film,” he told Stern. “I think he was forced into talking to me. Because there was a moment in time where everybody wanted me in everything… my instinct was he had somebody else in mind, which turned out to be Viggo [Mortensen].”

In the years since, Crowe has continued to take on a wide range of roles, from Inspector Javert in Les Misérables (2012) to Zeus in Thor: Love and Thunder (2022) to Father Gabriel Amorth in The Pope's Exorcist (2023). In November 2025, he starred opposite Rami Malek and Michael Shannon in Nuremberg, a WWII courtroom drama that's now streaming on Netflix. His next film, the MMA drama Beast, hits theaters April 10. Highlander, which began filming in early 2026 and co-stars Henry Cavill, Dave Bautista, and Jeremy Irons, is also on the way — directed by John Wick’s Chad Stahelski.

Crowe hasn't been shy about protecting the legacy of his most famous role, either. In December 2025, he told Australia's Triple J that Gladiator II missed what made the original special. "It wasn't the pomp. It wasn't the circumstance. It wasn't the action," he said. "It was the moral core."

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Outside of acting, Crowe is a co-owner of the South Sydney Rabbitohs rugby league team and a father to two sons, Charles and Tennyson, with ex-wife Danielle Spencer. He also still performs live with Russell Crowe’s Indoor Garden Party, featuring the Gentlemen Barbers.

If Crowe has any plans to slow down, he hasn't mentioned them.

Related: Read Next

56 Years Ago Today, Beloved ’60s Icon Won Major Oscar Award

Tue, 04/07/2026 - 5:00pm

Maggie Smith earned one of the most acclaimed honors of her acting career when she struck gold at the 42nd Academy Awards 52 years ago today.

Long before the public knew her from her iconic roles in Harry Potter and Downton Abbey, she was already a celebrated screen and stage actress, earning universal recognition for her remarkable talent and commanding presence.

On April 7, 1970, the British actress further cemented her name in Hollywood after landing her first-ever Oscar Award.

Nominated alongside equally talented actresses, Smith ultimately surpassed the formidable performances of fellow nominees, including Geneviève Bujold (Anne of the Thousand Days), Jane Fonda (They Shoot Horses Don't They?), Liza Minnelli (The Sterile Cuckoo) and Jean Simmons (The Happy Ending), securing her place as a standout winner of the night for Best Actress.

Maggie Smith arrives at "The Lady In The Van" - Centrepiece Gala, at Odeon Leicester Square on October 13, 2015 in London, England.

John Phillips/Getty Images for BFI

At 35, she took home the coveted title for her lead role in The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie, where she perfectly portrayed the unconventional and manipulative yet charismatic teacher working at the Marcia Blaine School for Girls in Edinburgh during the 1930s.

Presented by Oscar-winning actor Cliff Robertson, the award was accepted by close friend and fellow actress and comedian Alice Ghostley.

“Well, I'm standing here and I'm thinking that with a marvelous husband like Robert Stephens and a distinguished director like Robert Fryer and the courage of a man like Richard Zanuck; well, put those all together and you just can't miss. And they didn't. And we in America present this award to you, Maggie, with as much thanks as it is a tribute to your magnificent performance. And thank you, everyone, from Maggie Smith,” she mentioned in her acceptance speech, conveying the actress’ appreciation and gratitude for such an amazing honor.

Following this win, she also took home the Best Actress Award at the 23rd British Academy Film Awards (BAFTA) alongside co-star Celia Johnson as Best Supporting Actress.

Maggie Smith and Pamela Franklin star in the film "The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie" in 1969.

20th Century Fox/Getty Image

Nine years later, Smith returned to the Oscar stage to accept the Best Supporting Actress title at the 51st Academy Awards in 1979.

The recognition was for her striking performance as the British stage actress Diana Barrie in California Suite.

With her career spanning decades, Smith's most iconic roles were Violet Crawley, the Dowager Countess of Grantham in Downton Abbey and of course, who wouldn't forget her stern yet kind-hearted character in Harry Potter as Professor Minerva McGonagall.

On Sept. 27, 2024, news broke about the passing of the award-winning actress at 89. She was survived by her sons, Chris Larkin and Toby Stephens, who also confirmed her death.

Related: 48 Years Ago Today, Beloved '70s Icon Won Her Only Best Actress Award at the Oscars

Target Has a 'Spacious' $160 Rolling Storage Cabinet That'll Help Clear Clutter Fast

Tue, 04/07/2026 - 4:45pm

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If you live in an apartment, you already know how quickly storage runs out. There’s only so much you can do when you don’t have a pantry, your closets are full, and adding anything permanent isn’t an option. Fortunately, the Costway Rolling Storage Cabinet can help with that, and it’s on sale for just $160 at Target, down from $470.

It measures 24 inches long, 14.5 inches wide, and 58 inches high. There are four shelves inside, and two of them are adjustable, which makes it easier to fit taller items without wasting space. The frame is made of metal and supports up to 132 pounds, and it sits on four universal wheels, including two that lock when you want it to stay in place. It also has translucent doors so you have an idea of what’s inside without it looking bulky and totally closed off.

Costway Rolling Storage Cabinet, $160 (was $470) at Target

Courtesy of Target

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The cabinet can hold pantry items in the kitchen, though it also works just as easily for extra dishes, snacks, or small appliances. If your living room is starting to collect clutter, it can double as a bookcase or a place for baskets and everyday items. It also works well for folded clothes or overflow storage that doesn’t fit in your bedroom dresser.

The universal wheels are super practical. You can move the cabinet out of the way when you’re cleaning, roll it into a different room when your setup changes, or even tuck it into a corner when you want more open space. 

Shoppers called it the “perfect apartment pantry," which makes sense once you see how much it holds. Others mentioned that it’s "very sturdy," while another reviewer said that the “inside is spacious enough for a good amount of storage."

Related: Wayfair’s 'Beautiful' Console Table Is Now Under $100 and 'Perfect for Small Spaces'

If you’ve been looking for easy, budget-friendly ways to add more storage space to your home, this cabinet is a sleek, versatile option. Whether you use it in your kitchen, bedroom, laundry room, office, or elsewhere, the four spacious shelves can go a long way toward providing extra room.

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The Costway Rolling Storage Cabinet is a practical solution for anyone dealing with limited storage, especially in apartments where every inch matters. It’s sturdy, easy to move, and adaptable enough to use in multiple rooms depending on what you need. And at just $160, now’s the perfect time to pick it up while it’s still 66% off at Target.

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Marriott Fans Rejoice as Coke Returns and the 34-Year Pepsi Era Finally Ends

Tue, 04/07/2026 - 4:39pm

Starting this summer, that slightly sheepish question—"Is Pepsi okay?"—is officially being retired from the Marriott vocabulary.

After a relationship spanning 34 years, Marriott International is cutting ties with PepsiCo and moving its global portfolio of nearly 10,000 hotels over to Coca-Cola. It’s a massive logistical flip involving over 1.7 million rooms across 145 countries, and for a specific set of travelers, it’s the most exciting news to come out of Bethesda in years.

Related: Marriott Is Finally Getting a Luxury Wellness Brand—and the Locations Are Total Dream

The "Bailout" That Built a 30-Year Bond

To understand why Marriott stayed "Blue" for so long, you have to look back to 1992, when the company was facing a major financial crunch. According to industry lore and reports from the time, Marriott first approached Coca-Cola for a loan to help navigate the crisis. Coke reportedly balked, with executives at the time famously describing Marriott as asking them to "become a banker" rather than a beverage provider. Sensing an opening, PepsiCo stepped in with a massive financial package—estimated between $50 million and $100 million in below-market loans—to stabilize the chain.

Marriott, a company that famously values corporate loyalty, stuck with Pepsi as a "thank you" for that lifeline for three decades. But in 2026, data has finally won out over history.

The Data: 70% of Guests Want "Red"

The pivot isn't just about a better financial bid; it’s about a direct response to guest dissatisfaction. Marriott recently informed hotel owners that internal research shows over 70% of Bonvoy members prefer Coca-Cola over Pepsi.

While Pepsi has spent the last year reviving its "Pepsi Challenge" and claiming a taste win for its Zero Sugar line, the "Pepsi Paradox" persists: blind tests often favor the sweeter Pepsi, but real-world branded preference almost universally swings toward Coke. For Marriott, continuing to push a less-popular product was starting to impact overall guest satisfaction scores.

Related: You’ve Probably Been Pronouncing Marriott Wrong

"About Damn Time": The Fan Reaction

The news has sent ripples through travel communities, where "Coke vs. Pepsi" is often treated with the same intensity as "Status vs. Points." On the r/marriott subreddit, the reaction was swift and overwhelmingly in favor of the switch:

"About damn time. A rare win at Bonvoy. My preferred over-priced carbonated sugar-water is now in their refrigerators. Saved." — u/1990

"Most of the properties here kept Coke in the gift shop anyway because soda drinkers are a lot like smokers. They don't want any old flavor. They want their poison of choice." — u/tyranicalTbagger

"I literally will not go to Subway because of the Pepsi deal. Marriott just gained a customer back." — u/GrundleChunk

The Rolling Refresh

Don't expect every Pepsi machine to vanish overnight. The transition begins this summer and will be a phased rollout as individual properties exhaust their current stock and local bottlers swap out equipment.

Beyond the flagship colas, travelers can expect to see Sprite, Gold Peak Tea, and Dasani taking over the fountain taps and lobby markets where Starry and Aquafina once stood.

Related: Marriott’s New ‘Series’ Brand is the Answer to Your Mid-Range Europe Travel Prayers

Taylor Frankie Paul Files Restraining Order Against Dakota Mortensen

Tue, 04/07/2026 - 4:36pm

Taylor Frankie Paul has filed a counter restraining order against her ex-boyfriend Dakota Mortensen.

Mortensen had previously been awarded a temporary protective order in March 2026 against Paul. Mortensen has also been given temporary custody of their son, Ever, 2.

RELATED: Taylor Frankie Paul’s Ex Dakota Mortensen Files for Restraining Order and Sole Custody of Their Son

Mortensen's protective order was in response to an alleged domestic assault incident that occurred on Feb. 23 and 24. Mortensen alleged Paul hit him, choked him, and shoved him into a window during an argument.

A spokesperson for the Draper City Police Department in Utah confirmed to Us Weekly that at the time of Mortensen's filing there was an "open domestic assault investigation” regarding the couple, with allegations “made in both directions.” Both Mortensen and Paul have denied any allegations of domestic violence against them.

Utah's West Jordan Police Department is also investigating an alleged third instance of a domestic dispute between the two. Mortensen alleges that this incident occurred in 2024 and the West Jordan Police Department confirmed to NBC they are reviewing video footage from this alleged dispute.

Paul's upcoming season ofThe Bachelorette was cancelled on Mar. 19 following a resurfaced video online of a domestic violence incident between herself and Mortensen from 2023. Production on season five of The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives has also been paused indefinitely.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 for confidential support.

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2009 Kenny Chesney Song Goes Viral for Awkward Reason  — Now the Singer Is Reacting to the Drama

Tue, 04/07/2026 - 4:35pm

Kenny Chesney is aware that his 2009 song “Out Last Night” has gone viral on TikTok for its involvement in a cringe-worthy social media scandal.

The drama began when TikTok user Mikala West posted a March 29 video with Chesney’s hit as the background music. The montage showed West’s friend and a mystery man named Mike dancing at a bar in Huntsville, Alabama, after a 2026 lineman’s rodeo, which linemen travel to from around the country to participate in a series of competitions. West urged fellow TikTok users to help her identify the man in the video so her friend could reconnect with him.

“My friend found her soulmate last night in Huntsville, Alabama, after the lineman rodeo and we know nothing about him except his name is Mike and his friends kept calling him like the birds in Finding Nemo. (Mike! Mike! Mike!),” West shared in the video. “Help us get Nemo home.”

Social media users were initially excited by the idea of West’s friend and the mysterious Mike reuniting after their missed connection. However, things took a turn when a woman claiming to be Mike’s wife commented on West’s video.

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“Hi! I’m Michael’s wife,” she wrote. “He’s busy explaining this to our two children right now.”

TikTok users subsequently swarmed the comments section to weigh in on the drama, with many referencing the 2003 animated filmFinding Nemo that West mentioned in her caption.

“Looks like Nemo has a home,” one person replied, while another responded, “Yeah his friends were like Mike Mike Mike as in STOP MIKE.”

A third person commented, “Somebody said, ‘Even Dory remembered she had a family.’ I love and hate this app.”

Others expressed their disappointment over the outcome of the situation, with one TikTok user writing, “Me: ‘Aw hope she finds him’ *opens comments* ‘Ope nevermind.’”

Another person noted, “People are laughing but I’m actually so heartbroken for the wife.”

Since West first posted the video on TikTok, it has been viewed nearly 25 million times. It also sparked a trend of other linemen making social media videos about the situation.

For his part, Chesney, 58, nodded to the ordeal with his own TikTok video on Monday, April 6.

“Heard we went out last night,” the singer captioned a video of himself performing “Out Last Night” during one of his concerts as the crowd sang along.

@kennychesney

Heard we went out last night

♬ Out Last Night - Kenny Chesney

Commenters immediately realized the reference to the online drama, with one person replying, “Oh Kenny this is MESSY,” and another responding, “Kenny Chesney needs to give [Mike’s wife] a free ticket to his show and put her in the front row!”

“Cracking up [right now],” a third user shared. “You know it’s bad if the artist even posts about it.”

Another person joked, “Little did Kenny know he was writing the theme song for ‘Mike the Lineman’ back in ’09.”

Chesney’s “You Had to Be There” collaborator Megan Moroney even left a comment on his post, writing, “Lmao,” with a crying emoji.

‘Friends’ Star Slams Rapper Over ‘Professed’ Apology

Tue, 04/07/2026 - 4:30pm

David Schwimmer is no friend of Kanye West.

Hours before the rapper, who now goes by the name Ye, was denied entry into the U.K. and the Wireless Festival he was to headline announced its cancellation, David Schwimmer took to social media to slam the rapper’s apology and applaud the companies that pulled their sponsorships from the Wireless Festival.

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In a carousel post on Instagram, Schwimmer addressed the situation with a four-screen statement headed by a graphic of worn posters pasted on top of each other with the words: “I’M SORRY,” “NOT SORRY,” “I’M SORRY,” “I’M A NAZI.”

Schwimmer began the letter portion of his post by thanking “Pepsi, PayPal and Diageo” for having the “moral clarity” to pull their sponsorships from the Wireless Festival, “which disgraced itself recently by scheduling Ye (formerly Kanye West) to headline.”

Later in the post, Schwimmer calls Ye “an artist who became one of the most recognizable hate-mongering bigots in the world.”

“For years, Ye used his considerable celebrity to promote hate and violence against Jews, spreading antisemitic lies and stereotypes to his 33 million followers – more than twice the number of Jewish people alive today,” he added.

Related: Popular Music Festival Forced to Cancel After Controversial Headliner Banned From UK

The Friends star went on to remind his 7.7 million followers that the rapper released a song called “Heil Hitler” less than a year ago that was banned from all the major streaming platforms and added that Kanye sold swastika T-shirts on his website, proclaimed that he was a Nazi and threaten to kill Jews.

Schwimmer acknowledged that Ye apologized about two months ago but suggested it was “perhaps part of a PR scheme,” adding that the rapper has apologized before.

He also called out those who appear to be supporting his comeback, which included a recent concert at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, Calif., asking if the Kroenke family, which owns the stadium and the Los Angeles Rams, were aware of Kanye’s remarks, as well as Lauryn Hill, Travis Scott, CeeLo Green and Don Toliver – “artists who seem to shrug off his history of rabid antisemitism. Or maybe endorse it?”

In the final page of his post, Schwimmer writes that if Kanye “was sincere, he would take action to repair the damage he caused.” The actor offered a few suggestions the rapper could follow to redeem himself, including pulling and disavowing the song “Heil Hitler,” meeting with Jewish leaders and artists, and donating funds to Jewish charities.

IKEA Stocked an L.L.Bean Lookalike for Half the Price

Tue, 04/07/2026 - 4:25pm

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There's a certain canvas tote that seems to show up everywhere once the weather warms up. You've seen it at the farmers market, on the beach and slung over shoulders at weekend soccer games. The classic L.L.Bean Boat and Tote has built a loyal following over the years. But now IKEA shoppers are doing a double-take because a new bag on shelves looks strikingly similar for a fraction of the price.

The IKEA SOLUPPGÅNG bag has shoppers obsessed, thanks to its resemblance to the iconic L.L.Bean tote. While the L.L.Bean Boat and Tote retails for $39.95 and up, depending on size and customization, IKEA's version costs just $16.99. That price difference alone is enough to spark interest among tote lovers.

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SOLUPPGÅNG Bag, mixed colors, $16.99 at IKEA

IKEA

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At first glance, the structured shape and sturdy handles give serious L.L.Bean energy. But IKEA didn't stop at simply creating a lookalike. The SOLUPPGÅNG bag is made from durable polyester designed to handle everyday wear, whether you're heading to the beach, grocery store or park.

Functionality is where this IKEA find really stands out. The bag can expand in height when you need extra space, then pull the drawstring closed for added security. One of the handles features practical loops for attaching small items with carabiners. Think reusable coffee cups, keys or even a water bottle you want within easy reach. It's a thoughtful touch that the traditional L.L.Bean tote doesn't offer.

Related: IKEA Is Selling a $13 Kitchen Staple With a Modern Brutalist Edge

There's also an outer pocket that keeps essentials like your phone or wallet close at hand without leaving them fully exposed. The handles are long enough to carry comfortably over your shoulder or by hand, giving it that same grab-and-go versatility people love about L.L.Bean.

Of course, longtime L.L.Bean fans will point out the heritage appeal and heavyweight canvas construction that made the original Boat and Tote famous. But for shoppers who want the aesthetic without spending nearly $40, IKEA delivers a compelling alternative. The price makes it easier to justify picking up multiple colors or using one strictly as a beach bag while another becomes your everyday errand companion.

IKEA has built a reputation for offering practical design at accessible prices, and this tote feels like another example of that formula working well. If you've been eyeing an L.L.Bean bag but hesitating at checkout, this IKEA version offers a similar look with a few modern upgrades and a much friendlier price tag.

Related: IKEA Is Selling 'Nifty Little' $2 Shoe Organizers That Shoppers Say Save So Much Space

1965 Hit Ranked 'Best First Dance Song' for Weddings Remains a Timeless Love Anthem

Tue, 04/07/2026 - 4:15pm

When it comes to wedding music, some songs just stand the test of time.

According to data collected by wedding apparel site, The Black Tux, "Unchained Melody" by The Righteous Brothers ranked No. 1 in a 2025 study of best first dance songs at weddings. The tune, which was released in 1965, was reported to have played at 6.4 percent of receptions last year in a survey of 900 couples.

While the ranking also included more contemporary songs including John Legend's "All of Me," which came in at No. 2 and Christina Perri's "A Thousand Years," which landed at No. 9, other classic love songs, including "At Last" by Etta James and "The Way You Look Tonight" by Frank Sinatra, also made the list.

"Unchained Melody" made its debut in the 1960s and has managed to stay in the relevant in pop culture for decades as it was featured in the 1990 film 'Ghost' starring Patrick Swayze, Demi Moore, and Whoopi Goldberg.

It's also been covered throughout the years by Elvis Presley, Roy Orbison, and Leann Rimes.

The singing duo, made up of Bill Medley and Bobby Hatfield, also were responsible for the 1960 hits, "You've Lost That Lovin' Feeling," and "(You're My) Soul and Inspiration."

Related: 1960 Hit Ranked Among 'Best Love Songs' of All Time Became the Ultimate Wedding Anthem

When it comes to "Unchained Melody" though Hatfield was the lead singer and Medley was the producer.

"I was as excited as a producer than the guy who sang it, but Bobby killed it," Medley shared in an interview on the Joe Pags show last year. "I was just thrilled to produce that song and Bobby did such an incredible job."

Medley, for his part, went on to release other widely known hits, that perhaps would also be played at weddings, including "I've Had the Time of My Life," which was in duet with Jennifer Warnes and made popular by the 1987 film 'Dirty Dancing.'

Hatfield passed away in 2003 and Medley, 85, has continued to perform. Singer Bucky Heard has stepped in the place of Hatfield and the two perform as The Righteous Brothers.

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Meryl Streep Makes Reveals the Original ‘The Devil Wears Prada' Had a Surprisingly Tight Budget

Tue, 04/07/2026 - 4:13pm

In a recent interview on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Mamma Mia’s Meryl Streep revealed that the 2006 hit film The Devil Wears Prada was made on a shoestring budget.

In The Devil Wears Prada, Streep played Miranda Priestly, the editor of Runway Magazine. Anne Hathaway played Andrea Sachs, a journalist with big dreams and little fashion sense. Streep said in the interview that the film was labeled as a “chick flick.”

“That designation has kind of not worn well after Barbie and Mamma Mia and other films that completely catch the studios by surprise that people want to see them because they have women in the center of the story,” Streep said. “So we had to scrabble for our budget.”

Streep continued, saying that she discussed this with Greta Gerwig, director of 2023’s Barbie. She said that this was also true of her movie, compared to what studios typically spend on major films.

However, a minimal budget was not the case for Streep’s upcoming film, The Devil Wears Prada 2. Streep told Colbert, “This one, honey, they spent the money!”

The sequel film is set to release on May 1 and follows Priestly as she endures a power struggle against her former assistant, Emily Charlton. Hathaway, Emily Blunt and Stanley Tucci will all be returning for the film alongside Streep, as their characters compete for advertising revenue while Priestly nears retirement.

Ahead of the film, Anna Wintour, who served as Vogue’s editor-in-chief for 37 years, has been making rare public appearances. Despite not being part of the cast, she has been part of the promos for The Devil Wears Prada 2, including a recent interview with Vogue. Alongside Streep, Wintour graced the front cover wearing an iconic pair of Chanel sunglasses. Arriving at the interview in yellow scarves, Vogue compared Streep and Wintour to “a pair of generals in matching epaulets.”

The final trailer for The Devil Wears Prada 2 was released on April 6 and can be seen here:

Related: ‘Delightfully Dishy’ 2003 Bestseller Returning to the Big Screen Named Vogue’s Latest Book Club Pick

Amazon's 'Lightweight' Skechers Sandals Are Now Just $38 and Feel 'Like Walking on Air'

Tue, 04/07/2026 - 4:10pm

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If you're looking for some lightweight walking shoes for spring and summer, Amazon's Skechers Glide-Step Count On Me Sandals are worth checking out right now. The stylish sandals feature an open, airy design that's ideal for warmer temperatures, and they're currently on sale for up to 41% off.   

Originally priced at $64, the popular sandals are now on sale for as low as $38 in select sizes. They come in two versatile colors that go with everything —  black and stone — and sizes ranging from 5 to 11. 

Skechers Glide-Step Count on Me Sandals, From $38 (was $64) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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The sandals feature a cushy, yoga foam footbed that molds to your foot shape and provides optimal comfort for any occasion, whether you're wearing them for work, travel, or grocery store runs. The glide-step geometric midsole offers shock absorption for everyday walking, while the flexible, non-slip outsole offers extra traction that's suitable for a variety of surfaces. 

Crafted with 100% vegan material, the sandals feature an open-toe design that enhances breathability for warm summer days and nights. The velcro straps are adjustable, allowing for a secure fit on all sizes, and the 1.5-inch heel adds a slight lift while still remaining comfortable enough for daily errands. 

Related: Amazon's 'Buttery Soft' $27 Lounge Set Is Perfect for Spring Travel and Comes in 18 Colors

The sandals have earned plenty of praise from Amazon shoppers, who called them "lightweight" and "cushy." Several highlighted the soft, supportive footbed, with one noting it feels "like walking on air." Another said the "light" and airy design makes it perfect for spring and summer. 

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With an ultra-supportive design and two classic colors to choose from, these Skechers sandals are a worthwhile upgrade to any shoe collection. Grab a pair for under $40 before the Amazon sale ends. 

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1977 Candy Caves to Fan Demand With Revival of a ‘Nostalgic Treat’

Tue, 04/07/2026 - 4:09pm

Festival season is upon us, and this year, with it comes the revival of a beloved candy flavor that's equally tasty and reminiscent of much simpler times.

There’s a wave of nostalgia hitting candy aisles this spring—and it’s bright blue, sugary, and impossible to ignore. Ring Pop has officially brought back its fan-favorite Cotton Candy flavor, answering years of demand from devoted sweet tooths who never forgot the iconic taste.

The revival isn’t just a quiet return—it’s making a bold, festival-ready debut. The carnival-inspired flavor is launching at this year’s Revolve Festival during Coachella, perfectly timed with the season’s carefree, high-energy vibe. Designed to match the event’s “Grand Revivre” theme, the Cotton Candy Ring Pop doubles as both a nostalgic treat and a playful accessory—something the brand has leaned into since its early days.

According to a press release shared directly with Parade, the updated version features a vibrant blue candy gem that delivers that classic spun-sugar flavor fans remember, paired with bold, swirled packaging that feels straight out of a summer carnival. It’s a visual and flavorful throwback, crafted for a new generation while tapping into peak millennial nostalgia.

Even better? You won’t have to travel to the desert to get one. The Cotton Candy flavor is rolling out nationwide this month, hitting shelves at major retailers like Target, Walmart, and Amazon, making it easier than ever to relive the sweet, carefree joy of childhood.

A Sweet Piece of Candy History

First introduced in 1977 by Ring Pop with Strawberry and Grape flavors, the iconic candy was the brainchild of product engineer Frank Richards, who reportedly created it as a fun way to curb his daughter's thumb-sucking habit. The idea quickly turned into a cultural phenomenon—combining candy with wearable play in a way that felt entirely new at the time.

Over the decades, Ring Pop has remained a staple in the candy world, known for its oversized jewel shape, bold flavors, and kid-friendly appeal. From birthday parties to playgrounds, it’s been a symbol of fun for generations—and with the return of Cotton Candy, it’s clear the brand still knows exactly how to tap into that timeless magic, even years later.

Next: Dr Pepper’s Brand-New 'Special' Release Is Already Flying Off Shelves

Beloved History Channel Star Dies After Cancer Battle

Tue, 04/07/2026 - 4:08pm

Nick Pope, a frequent contributor to Ancient Aliens and a former U.K. Ministry of Defence official known for his work on UFO investigations, has died after a battle with cancer. He was 60.

His wife, Elizabeth Weiss, announced his death in a Facebook post on April 6, writing, “My heart is breaking -- Nick passed away this afternoon at our home. The last few weeks of his life, even as he suffered, he managed to do a few interviews from home. I was so lucky to have met and to have married Nick. He was a wonderful husband. I loved him dearly. -Elizabeth Weiss.”

Related: ‘Happy Days’ Icon Henry Winkler Is Back on History Channel—And This Time It’s All About ‘Dangerous’ Nostalgia

Pope had revealed just weeks earlier that he had been diagnosed with Stage 4 esophageal cancer that had spread to his liver. In a deeply personal message shared February 12, he acknowledged the severity of his condition, writing, “I can't beat it,” while reflecting on what he called “an amazing adventure” spanning both his government career and his later work in media.

During his 21 years at the U.K. Ministry of Defence, Pope worked on a range of topics including defense policy, counter-terrorism and unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP), which later made him a recognizable figure in television documentaries and news appearances. He became widely known to audiences as a recurring expert on Ancient Aliens, the long-running History Channel series exploring theories about extraterrestrial influence on human history.

Related: ‘Pawn Stars’ Icon Hospitalized, Posts Gruesome Photos: ‘Pretty Messed Up’

The show paid tribute to Pope following news of his death, writing, “We are saddened by the passing of Nick Pope who was a beloved member of the Ancient Aliens family. He challenged us to look beyond what we know and question what may be possible. He will be deeply missed.”

The post has 12000 reactions and almost 1000 comments. Some fan comments include:

  • "Always felt like he knew more than he was allowed to mention. He will be missed by many."
  • "He will be missed. Nick Pope and David Wilcock are/were the faces that kept me watching. Ancient Aliens will forever be less without his insight. 😢."
  • "He definitely did his part in the awakening of humanity. Not surprised that his work etc was done. Things are happening very quickly now. May he continue to guide us home to ourselves. ✨💚."

Related: One of History Channel’s Most Popular TV Shows Is Getting a Spinoff

Pope remained active in his work almost until the end, continuing interviews, conference appearances and live events, including his role as moderator of Ancient Aliens Live. In his final message, he expressed gratitude for both his career and his personal life, calling his marriage to Weiss as “the true highlight.” The two just celebrated their 15th wedding anniversary on February 25.

“It’s all been amazing, and I’m grateful for the things I’ve done, not mournful for the things that I won’t now get to do,” he wrote.

Ancient Aliens, which has aired on History since 2010, has become one of the network’s most recognizable franchises, blending speculative theories about extraterrestrial contact with historical and archaeological topics. Pope was among its most familiar on-screen voices, helping bring discussions of UFOs and UAP into mainstream conversation.

Related: Tom Selleck, Ted Danson and Kevin Bacon Join Major New A&E TV Slate

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This $8 Foldable IKEA Find Makes Kitchen Organization Totally Custom, and It Saves Space

Tue, 04/07/2026 - 4:05pm

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Sometimes organizing a kitchen feels like trying to solve a puzzle where half the pieces are missing ... and the other half are lids that don't match anything you own. You're really not asking for much—just a functional space where you can cook dinner without digging through cabinets like you're on some kind of archaeological expedition.

Between pots, pans, meal prep containers and all those random gadgets you swore you'd use more, things get out of hand fast. But the real chaos culprit? Lids. I'm tell you, it's always the lids. They're either stacked in a teetering pile waiting to crash down the second you touch them, or they've mysteriously wandered off to a dimension where only unmatched socks and Tupperware tops exist.

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VARIERA Pot Lid Organizer, $7.99 at IKEA The VARIERA stainless steel pot lid organizer

IKEA

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While it might not be the most tantalizing thing you'll find at IKEA, the VARIERA stainless steel pot lid organizer may just be the one that eases kitchen headaches. It's made of stainless steel and can be used either in deep drawers or cabinets. Thanks to its accordion-style design, you can really customize it to be as long or short as you need for whichever spot in your kitchen it will call home.

One thing to consider—it isn't just for pot and pan lids. You can also use the VARIERA organizer to store container lids.

Related: Aldi's Outdoor Reclining Chair Has the Niftiest Space-Saving Secret

There are more than 1400 reviews of the VARIERA under the product listing, and they are glowing.

"This goes so perfectly in our new kitchen," a shopper wrote in their review. "We use these in one of our deep drawers to keep baking sheets as well as some flat pans (like tortilla pans) and it just keeps everything so organized and easily accessible. Love that this is adjustable too so you can fit it right to your space."

Another customer found a different use for the piece that helps with yet another kitchen conundrum.

"I bought this to hold my wood cutting boards upright while they dry (to prevent warping) and they can also be used to keep them upright when I oil my boards and let the oil soak in overnight," they said. "There's enough dividers to allow for air circulation while the boards dry, and it folds up nice and small when not in use for easy storage."

Now I want to buy multiple of these, and at $7.99 a pop, I just might.

Related: Five Below Just Gave the Humble Trash Can a Whimsical Floral Makeover, and It's Only $5

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