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2008 Dystopian Novel Was Just Voted the 'Best Book Ever' by Goodreads
Goodreads readers have named their pick for the “best book ever.” Rated millions of times by readers, making it one of the most popular books on the platform, Goodreads users have chosen The Hunger Gamesby Suzanne Collins as the best book ever, besting Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen and To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee.
Publication and Breakout SuccessThe Hunger Games was published on September 14, 2008, by Scholastic in hardcover. Collins’ dystopian YA novel didn’t just launch a book series; its release marked the beginning of a worldwide phenomenon that endures to this day.
After the book’s release in 2008, it quickly became a breakout hit. The Hunger Games entered the New York Times bestseller list in November 2008, remaining there for over 100 consecutive weeks. It also appeared on USA Today’s bestseller list for more than 135 weeks and has sold millions of copies worldwide.
Now, The Hunger Games can add the title of “best book ever,” according to Goodreads readers, to its long list of accolades.
Plot and Cultural ImpactThe Hunger Games is a dystopian novel set in the nation of Panem, where a totalitarian Capitol controls twelve outlying districts. Each year, the Capitol forces each district to send one boy and one girl between the ages of 12 and 18 to compete in the Hunger Games, a televised fight to the death. When her younger sister is selected, 16-year-old Katniss Everdeen, portrayed by Jennifer Lawrence in the film adaptation The Hunger Games, volunteers to take her place.
The book combines adventure and social commentary, exploring themes of survival, media influence, and resistance in a totalitarian society—themes that continue to resonate across generations.
Sequels and Expanded UniverseThe release of the first The Hunger Games novel created a global phenomenon that led to two direct sequels: Catching Fire, published in 2009, and Mockingjay, published in 2010. The original trilogy follows Katniss’ journey from survivor to symbol of rebellion.
Following the success of the original trilogy, Collins expanded the world of Panem with prequel novels including The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, published in 2020, and Sunrise on the Reaping, which landed on many “best of” lists following its release in 2025.
Awards and Enduring Legacy @lionsgatechat, im sorry #thehungergames
♬ you left me on suicide sunday - thenianNamed one of Publishers Weekly’s Best Books of the Year in 2008 and the winner of the California Young Reader Medal in 2011, The Hunger Games has been praised by critics and readers alike for its world-building and emotional depth, inspiring generations of readers.
The book’s enduring popularity also marked one of the first YA novels to cross over into mainstream adult fiction, with its broad appeal spanning generations of readers year after year.
Texas-Native Country Stars Cement Their Legacies With Major Hall of Fame Induction
George Strait and Miranda Lambert officially received one of the highest honors in Texas music over the weekend.
The Texas Heritage Songwriters Association formally inducted the two country performers into the Texas Songwriters Hall of Fame on Feb. 21 at Austin's ACL Live at The Moody Theater, alongside veteran hitmaker Don Cook and the late Keith Gattis.
Recognizing the Pen Behind the VoiceWhile Strait is primarily known for his smooth baritone and extensive chart success, he holds several key songwriting credits. His name is attached to tracks like "Here for a Good Time," "Living for the Night" and "Every Little Honky Tonk Bar."
Lambert, who grew up in Lindale, Texas, built her career on her own sharp storytelling. She holds writing credits on some of her biggest singles from albums like The Weight of These Wings, including "Tin Man," "Bluebird" and "Automatic." She recently noted on social media that her father served as her very first co-writer and taught her how to play the guitar.
Related: ’70s Rock Icons to Be Honored by the Songwriters Hall of Fame
Honoring Behind-the-Scenes HeavyweightsThe 2026 induction class also celebrated two men who helped shape modern country radio. Cook is responsible for 20 chart-topping singles, including Brooks & Dunn staples like "Brand New Man" and "You're Gonna Miss Me When I'm Gone." He has also written for Alabama, Charley Prideand Conway Twitty.
Gattis, who passed away in 2023 at the age of 52, was honored posthumously. The Georgetown native penned "El Cerrito Place" for Kenny Chesney and "I Got a Car" for Strait, while also collaborating with Willie Nelson and Randy Houser.
A Milestone Year for Texas MusicThis weekend marked the 20th anniversary of the Texas Heritage Songwriters Association awards show. The sold-out ceremony featured a slate of tribute performances from artists including Brooks & Dunn, Parker McCollum, Jamey Johnson and Dean Dillon.
Each of the four inductees was presented with a signature "Willie" award to commemorate their impact on the genre. The event serves to highlight the writers who continue to shape the traditional and contemporary sounds of country music.
Next: ‘If I Die Young’ Band Announces New Tour After Years Away
1989 Classic Ranked ‘Best Romantic Comedy of All Time’ Defined an Entire Movie Genre
The romantic comedy is a quintessential movie genre that has defined the film industry for decades. Many have argued that modern rom-coms don't live up to the most popular and enduring ones of the '80s and '90s, but the art of blending romantic storylines with humorous situations is not lost. That being said, it would be fair to say that the genre reached its prime around the 1990s.
Vanity Fair took it upon itself to compile a list of the 42 best romantic comedy movies of all time to put a spotlight on the best of the best within the genre. Films across decades made the list, including Red, White, and Royal Blue (2023), the Drew Barrymore classic Never Been Kissed (1999), the fan-favorite How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days (2003) and even the Oscar Best Picture winner Anora (2024).
But rom-com lovers may not be surprised to see that the No. 1 best movie in the genre is the Nora Ephron and Rob Reiner classic When Harry Met Sally (1989) starring Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan. The film follows Harry Burns (Crystal) and Sally Albright (Ryan) over the course of 12 years as they repeatedly cross paths in New York City. After a post-college road trip where they debate whether men and women can truly be just friends, they drift in and out of each other’s lives while navigating careers, relationships and heartbreak. As their friendship deepens, they must confront their long-standing chemistry and the fear that acting on it could ruin the friendship they have.
(L-R) Special guests Rob Reiner, Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal attend the 30th anniversary screening of "When Harry Met Sally…" Opening Night at the 2019 10th Annual TCM Classic Film Festival.Photo by Emma McIntyre/Getty Images for TCM
After When Harry Met Sally was released, it didn't take long for the film to become "the gold standard" for romantic comedies, as Vanity Fair puts it. "All its talky, charming smartness felt revelatory upon its release, and still resonates today primarily because it so thoughtfully examines the central question posed at the beginning: can (straight) men and women really be just friends? While those stark gender lines, and Sally’s obsession with marriage, feel a bit dated, the film is still a near perfect execution of the genre," the magazine writes.
The film exploded in popularity, securing wins and nominations for BAFTA, Academy and Golden Globe awards. The movie also launched Ryan into newfound fame as America's sweetheart, as well as securing Reiner's legacy as one of the most influential directors of comedy in Hollywood. When Harry Met Sally would forever change the way the world viewed romantic comedies, and for years Hollywood would try its best to replicate the charm and impact the movie had — whether or not it has been successful is subjective.
So many of the movie's iconic scenes — such as the famous Katz Deli diner scene, and the initial road trip conversation between Harry and Sally — continue to resonate with fans almost four decades later. The film has even been preserved by the Library of Congress as a "culturally, historically or aesthetically significant" piece of work worth saving forever.
Related: 2021 Tearjerking Book Ranked ‘Most Romantic Novel’ of All Time
Legendary '80s Horror Movie Franchise Begins Production on 7th Film
The iconic '80s horror franchise The Evil Dead has started production for its seventh film, Evil Dead Wrath. The announcement follows promotional rollout for the newest installment, Evil Dead Burn, which is set for release July 24.
The news of the seventh film's production is especially surprising given that the previous film only wrapped in October. This fast turnaround speaks to the franchise's unwavering box-office success.
Created by American filmmaker Sam Raimi, The Evil Dead franchise follows a series of protagonists — the most famous being Ash Williams from the original three installments — as they fight off demons summoned to the living world via the Necronomicon, a grimoire in The Evil Dead universe.
Ted Raimi, Michelle Hurd, Bruce Campbell, Lee Majors, Ray Santiago and Dana DeLorenzo arrive at The Paley Center for Media's 10th Annual PaleyFest Fall TV Previews honoring STARZ's Ash vs. Evil Dead at the Paley Center for Media on Sept. 14, 2016 in Beverly Hills, California.Michael Kovac/Getty Images for The Paley Center For Media
While the films follow familiar patterns, it is hard to say what either of the new additions will have in store for audiences, as the summer installment has not yet released an official trailer. However, it is safe to say viewers know they can expect gore, undead monsters and eerie tape recordings.
Up-and-coming filmmaker Francis Galluppi was chosen by Raimi to direct the new film. Galluppi, who previously secured acclaim for his 2023 film The Last Stop in Yuma County, was expertly chosen for this breakthrough career moment. His ability to mesh gritty tension and dark humor will amplify the franchise's signature tone perfectly.
Evil Dead Wrath will be produced by Raimi, Bruce Campbell, Cronin, Rob Tapert, Romel Adam and Jose Canas, and is slated for release sometime in 2027. Charlotte Hope, Jessica McNamee, Zach Gilford, Josh Helman, Ella Newton, Elizabeth Cullen and Ella Oliphant are set to star in the seventh film, confirming the franchise is fully transitioning into an anthology model.
Related: ‘Forbidden Fruits’ Trailer Announced 35 Days Before Theatre Release
Two Beloved ‘Vampire Diaries’ Costars Quietly Break Up
Mystic Falls may be fictional, but the heartbreak is very real. Arielle Kebbel has confirmed that she and her Vampire Diaries costar Zach Roerig have split — and the 41-year-old actress opened up about it publicly for the first time this week on Kaitlyn Bristowe's podcast Off the Vine.
When Bristowe, 40, asked about her relationship status early in the episode, which aired Thursday, February 19, Kebbel didn't hesitate. "I haven't been in a relationship in quite some time," she shared. Without missing a beat, Bristowe offered her condolences, but the John Tucker Must Die star gently waved that off — “No… don’t, please” — before opening up further.
The Vampire Diaries actors Arielle Kebbel (Lexi) and Zach Roerig (Matt) are dating irl… pic.twitter.com/fGt1vo2rcs
— ᴏʟᴜᴍɪᴅᴇ 🍂 (@mideysmith) February 19, 2026"For me, definitely, it was one of the hardest things I've ever done," she explained. "But now I'm in a place of really leaning into my own life choices... [getting] to know myself in a way" she described as "raw" — one she said she couldn't have accessed even six months prior. She added that the experience has pushed her to "change patterns for myself in the future, for my heart, for my soul." Roerig, also 41, has not publicly addressed the split.
The relationship itself had only become public about a year earlier — and in a way that felt tailor-made for longtime fans. In April 2025, the actors appeared together at Epic Cons’ “I Was Feeling Epic” fan convention in Covington, Georgia, the real-life filming home of Mystic Falls. During the event, Roerig surprised Kebbel with flowers and the two kissed onstage, a moment captured in fan videos that quickly circulated online. Kebbel later reacted to reposted clips with heart emojis, a low-key confirmation that they were officially together.
It was a fitting storybook beginning for two fan-favorite TV mainstays whose shared history runs deep. On The Vampire Diaries, the supernatural CW drama that aired from 2009 to 2017 across eight seasons and 171 episodes, Kebbel played Lexi Branson. Roerig, meanwhile, played Matt Donovan. Their characters didn't share many scenes, but their offscreen connection clearly had its own timeline. The pair had already worked together on the 2023 Hallmark film Love in the Great Smoky Mountains: A National Park Romance, in which they played former sweethearts who reunite.
The show has long had a habit of turning costars into couples. Nina Dobrev and Ian Somerhalder dated IRL from 2010 to 2013. Joseph Morgan married costar Persia White in 2014. And in 2023, Candice King confirmed her romance with The Originals star Steven Krueger.
Last summer, their relationship reached a new milestone when King announced their engagement on Instagram. A few months later, she revealed they’re expecting their first child together, due in May 2026.
View this post on InstagramFor Kebbel, the timing of the breakup news coincides with one of the biggest moments of her career. She stars as U.S. Marshal Belle Skinner in Marshals, the highly anticipated Yellowstone spinoff on CBS, premiering March 1. During a recent appearance on CBS Mornings, she revealed that multiple country music stars are set to guest on the series throughout the season.
Chris Hemsworth Reveals the Reality of Being ‘Thor’ at Home
Just because the whole world thinks Chris Hemsworth is the coolest, doesn’t mean his kids do, too!
The Marvel actor shares 11-year-old twin boys, Sasha Hemsworth and Tristan Hemsworth, and 13-year-old daughter, India Rose Hemsworth, with his wife of 16 years, Elsa Pataky.
When asked about how his children feel about his fame, Hemsworth, 42, spoke candidly. “They don't care. They don’t care at all,” he said.
“I reckon when they first realized I was Thor, they thought it was really cool,” Hemsworth added, per an interview with People published on Sunday, February 22. “And then they realized they couldn't fly and they thought it was less cool.”
Related: Chris Hemsworth’s Net Worth (2026) Is Almost as Mighty as Thor
According to Hemsworth, Sasha, Tristan, and India are very “Ah, Dad, whatever,” about his A-list status these days.
Recently, Hemsworth opened up about his genetic predisposition to Alzheimer’s disease.
“I wondered if I was letting people too far in,” he told The Guardian in an interview earlier this month. “Are they no longer going to believe in the action star or the Marvel character? And do I want people to know my fears and insecurities to this level?”
Hemsworth’s father, Craig, was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and in turn, Hemsworth released a documentary in November 2025, A Road Trip to Remember, to chronicle their time together and raise awareness about the disease while making meaningful memories as a family.
“It was so deeply personal,” Hemsworth said of the project. “It was a love letter to my father. It empowered him for a period, and stimulated memories that were being taken away from him.”
He added, “People like to pretend it’s not happening, because it’s so uncomfortable for them, so you suffer in silence. People talk to you about the footy, and the weather, and stuff, and no one actually says, ‘How are you doing? Are you scared? Are you afraid?’”
We Asked 3 Cardiologists What Heart Disease Symptom You Should Never Ignore, and They All Said the Same Thing
For the last century, heart disease has sat atop the list as the most common cause of death among U.S. adults. And symptoms often start with something other than the severe or sudden chest pain that signals a heart attack.
"Heart disease remains the leading cause of death, yet many people either don’t recognize early warning signs or misinterpret them as something minor," saysDr. Tina Shah, MD, a cardiologist at Kaiser Permanente in Seattle. "The sooner symptoms are identified, the sooner treatment can begin, which dramatically improves survival and reduces long-term damage to the heart."
Heart health treatment also includes managing risk factors for cardiac events and cardiovascular disease. So, what are heart disease and heart attack risk factors to know about?
"In no particular order: High blood pressure, high cholesterol, high sugar (diabetes), high inflammatory state, high stress, smoking, lack of exercise and family history of heart attack," states Dr. Lu Chen, MD, a cardiac electrophysiologist with MemorialCare Heart & Vascular Institute at Orange Coast Medical Center.
Your doctor can help you assess your personal risk for heart attacks. and disease. However, if any of the above risk factors sound familiar, you'll want to be especially aware of the common red flags for heart failure and heart attacks.
Read on for the top overlooked symptoms cardiologists are warning people to never ignore—whether they have heart disease risk factors or not.
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"Shortness of breath—especially during activities that used to feel easy, like walking, climbing stairs or doing household chores—can be a red flag for heart trouble," warns Dr. Aye Thandar Win, MD, a cardiologist with Banner-University Medical Center Phoenix.
You may think shortness of breath is a sign of a lung issue, so here's a reminder that your heart doesn't operate in a vacuum.
"Shortness of breath basically means that the heart or lung cannot keep up with the oxygen demand of the body," Dr. Chen explains. "A heart attack reduces the blood supply to the heart muscles. The end result is that the heart muscles cannot function properly to supply oxygen to the rest of the body, which leads to shortness of breath."
Iuliia Burmistrova/Getty Images
The promising news is that people do tend to see shortness of breath as a red flag: Data published in Circulation in 2022 noted that increased shortness of breath was one of the top reasons people experiencing heart failure sought hospitalization. Yet, cardiologists have seen firsthand that many people still write off shortness of breath, even if they already have a heart disease risk factor like diabetes.
"Shortness of breath often develops gradually and can be blamed on stress, aging, lack of fitness, weight gain or being busy," Dr. Shah notes. "Many people also believe heart attacks are sudden and dramatic, like in movies, so they doubt themselves when symptoms are subtle. This normalization is one of the biggest reasons people delay care."
Dr. Win agrees that Hollywood hasn't helped.
"Movies reinforce this idea, but many people experience symptoms, including shortness of breath, for days or weeks or even months beforehand," Dr. Win explains. "They just ignored the symptoms or rationalized them away. Self-doubt plays a role, too. People worry about overreacting or 'wasting' a doctor’s time, especially if symptoms come and go."
Related: 8 Real People Explain Exactly What Having a Heart Attack Feels Like
What To Do if You Notice Shortness of BreathFlagging a potential heart attack or failure, such as if you have shortness of breath, is not an example of wasting healthcare providers' time. If you notice new or worsening shortness of breath, Dr. Win urges you to:
- Stop the activity and rest
- Contact your healthcare provider promptly
- Seek emergency care if it’s sudden, severe or accompanied by other symptoms (chest discomfort, dizziness and nausea)
"If breathing feels unusually difficult or frightening, call emergency services immediately," Dr. Win says.
All of this applies whether you have known risk factors or not.
"Heart disease can still occur, and symptoms like shortness of breath may be the first sign," Dr. Sah notes. "They should discuss it with a healthcare professional, particularly if it’s persistent, limits activity or is accompanied by other symptoms."
Of course, your shortness of breath may not be related to a heart attack or failure—but it's still worth it to get it checked out.
"There are multitudes of reasons to have shortness of breath, such as asthma, atrial fibrillation and pulmonary embolism," Dr. Chen reports. "Some of those diseases have no traditional heart disease risk factors associated."
Bottom line: "When in doubt, it’s safer to seek help than to wait," Dr. Shah emphasizes.
Related: Why Women’s Hearts Age Differently—and How To Protect Yours
Other Common Heart Attack SignsShortness of breath is one sign of a heart attack, but not the only one. Dr. Win urges people to look out for other flags, including:
- Chest pain, pressure or tightness
- Pain in the jaw, neck, back, shoulder or arm
- Unusual fatigue
- Lightheadedness or fainting
- Nausea or vomiting
- Cold sweats
- Heart palpitations
"Remember that not everyone experiences classic chest pain, especially women, older adults and people with diabetes," Dr. Win says.
Up Next:
Related: This Rising Number Isn’t ‘Normal’ Just Because You’re Aging, Cardiologists Warn
Sources:- Heart and Stroke Statistics. American Heart Association.
- Dr. Tina Shah, MD, a cardiologist at Kaiser Permanente in Seattle
- Dr. Lu Chen, MD, a cardiac electrophysiologist with MemorialCare Heart & Vascular Institute at Orange Coast Medical Center
- Dr. Aye Thandar Win, MD, a cardiologist with Banner – University Medical Center Phoenix
- State of the Science: The Relevance of Symptoms in Cardiovascular Disease and Research: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association. Circulation.
Adam Levine's Wife Behati Prinsloo: How They Survived a Cheating Scandal and More
Adam Levine may have been known as a womanizer for the first decade-plus of his career, but these days the Maroon 5 frontman only has eyes for wife Behati Prinsloo.
“The strongest, baddest, sexiest, most dynamic woman I’ve ever known,” he gushed about her on Instagram. “Your grace and power is astounding. I love you more than words can express.”
Of course, longtime fans know the couple—who tied the knot in 2014—hit a bump in the road in 2022, after several women accused the Voice coach of sending them flirty messages on social media. “I used poor judgment in speaking with anyone other than my wife in ANY kind of flirtatious manner,” he said in response. “I did not have an affair, nevertheless, I crossed the line during a regrettable period of my life.”
Despite the public drama, Levine and Prinsloo remain husband and wife, and are now the proud parents of three children. Keep reading to learn more about their relationship.
Who is Adam Levine’s wife?Levine is married to Behati Prinsloo, a Namibian model who became one of Victoria’s Secret’s most recognizable Angels. She walked for the brand more than a dozen times between 2007 and 2025.
After wearing her wings in November 2015, she paused to welcome daughters Dusty Rose, born September 2016, and Gio Grace, born February 2018. But her 2018 comeback was short-lived, as the show itself was then canceled from 2019 until 2024, at which point she returned again (and then again in 2025).
Victoria’s Secret aside, Prinsloo has also modeled for major fashion houses like Prada, Miu Miu and Versace, and landed covers for top magazines such as Vogue and Elle.
Related: Singer Adam Levine Reveals Cool ‘Secret’ Hiding in Maroon 5’s New Song
Are Adam Levine and Behati Prinsloo still together?Yes. Some looky-loos wondered whether they were done for in 2022, when Levine’s online indiscretions came to light, but the pair have indeed stuck together.
Marking their 11-year anniversary in 2025, Prinsloo wrote on Instagram, “My person for life!”
View this post on Instagram How did Adam Levine and Behati Prinsloo meet?The pair first connected in 2012, when Adam was looking to cast a model for a Maroon 5 music video and a mutual friend suggested he reach out to Prinsloo. Although she didn’t end up taking the job, the two kept talking over email.
They decided to meet when she was in L.A. for work, with their first flesh-and-blood encounter taking place at a boxing gym. "I remember walking in: I opened the door, and it was the classic moment where the light shines into the dark studio and everyone turned to look at me,” Prinsloo told Net-a-Porter.
“He had boxing gloves on and he came to hug me—it was so awkward.” After that, they went to dinner and “talked for hours.”
Although the couple briefly split in early 2013, they reunited quickly and were married by July 2014. “We broke up for two months, realized that it was the worst decision, then got back together, got engaged and got married,” Prinsloo said. “It was a wild ride!”
In an interview with GQ that hit stands a month before his wedding, Levine called Prinsloo “the coolest person in the world,” and pushed back on the idea that he had a “thing” for models (she wasn’t the first Angel he dated).
"I don’t date what the person does," he said. "I date the f–-king person. You know what I mean? I could have been a zitty teenager and walked into a Tower Records, and we would have talked about Pearl Jam, and we would have fallen in love when we were 15. And that’s when you know. It’s like, oh, my God, game over."
Related: Adam Levine Reveals Hit Song He Thought Would Be a ‘Career Ender’
When did Adam Levine and Behati Prinsloo get married?The pair tied the knot in July 2014 in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, in a ceremony officiated by actor Jonah Hill. (Hill’s late brother, Jordan Feldstein, was Levine’s childhood friend and long-time manager. He died in 2017.)
The wedding was a star-studded event with about 300 guests and a performance by Stevie Nicks.
What’s the age gap between Adam Levine and Behati Prinsloo?Adam Levine was born in 1979, and Behati Prinsloo was born in 1988. That makes their age gap about 10 years.
What happened with Adam Levine’s wife?In 2022, their marriage suddenly found itself in the headlines after Instagram model Sumner Stroh claimed she’d had a yearlong affair with Levine.
She shared her allegations on TikTok, posting screenshots of what she said were flirtatious messages from the “Moves Like Jagger” singer. One alleged message in particular grabbed the internet’s attention: “Ok serious question,” it read. “I’m having another baby and if it’s [a] boy I really want to name it Sumner. You ok with that? DEAD serious.”
The bizarre query came after Levine and Stroh had already cut ties (according to her), and when Prinsloo was pregnant with her third kid.
Following Stroh's bombshell reveal, several other women came forward to claim they were on the receiving end of Levine's flirtatious messages.
Did Adam Levine cheat on Behati Prinsloo?Depends on who you ask. After Stroh revealed alleged affair with Levine, he took to Instagram to "clear the air," insisting that his indiscretions were never “physical.”
“I used poor judgment in speaking with anyone other than my wife in ANY kind of flirtatious manner,” he wrote. “I did not have an affair, nevertheless, I crossed the line during a regrettable period in my life.”
He continued, “My wife and my family is all I care about in this world. To be this naïve and stupid enough to risk the only thing that truly matters to me was the greatest mistake I could ever make. I will never make it again. I take full responsibility. We will get through it. And we will get through it together.”
Do Adam Levine and Behati Prinsloo have kids?Yes! The couple share three children: daughters Dusty, 9, and Gio, 8, and a 3-year-old son whose name they’ve kept private. ("Sumner" presumably didn't make the cut.)
"I just love being near them,” Levine has said of his kids. “I love to watch every single step. And of course, you miss when they're tiny, and then they get bigger, and then you say, 'Oh, my God, they're so big,' and then you appreciate all the things you can do with them when they get bigger."
And there’s still so much more to come, he added. ”It's just this amazing, never-ending movie, just watching. And it's the best s--- ever. It's the best thing in the world to me."
Next: ‘The Voice’ Returns for Season 29 With New ‘Battle of Champions’ Format and Fan-Favorite Judges
Born in January? These 4 Core Traits Define Your Personality
January brings to mind visions of a glimmery ball drop at midnight, ambitious resolutions, snowy days and fresh starts, and, of course, the kind of weather that’s the perfect excuse to hunker down and stay inside (at least if you live in the Northern hemisphere). The month that kicks off a brand-new calendar year is also marked by a distinct, industrious, future-focused energy, thanks to the astrological energies that permeate this period.
Whether you’re January-born yourself or someone you adore happens to be, read on to better understand how being born in this snowy winter month shapes someone’s personality, according to astrologers.
The Astrology of Being Born in JanuaryPeople born in January fall under one of two zodiac signs: the ambitious Capricorn (December 22 - January 19) or the innovative Aquarius (January 20 - February 18). Capricorns are characterized by their steady presence, known for their desire to cultivate practical self-discipline and to build lasting legacies. Represented by the Sea Goat, this cardinal Earth sign is known for its initiative and goal-oriented mindset. On the other hand, Aquarians, represented by the Water Bearer, are recognized for their independent nature, forward-thinking approach, and unique self-expression. As a fixed Air sign, they are steadfast in their ideas, perspectives, and moral values.
Therefore, those born in January often possess remarkable grit and determination. Their resilience shines through in various aspects of life. Being born in the depths of winter, when the days are short and the nights are long and cold, tends to shape January-born individuals into those who persist despite all obstacles. Like their birth season, they emerge stronger and transformed from setbacks.
4 Core Personality Traits of People Born in January1. Future-OrientedWhether influenced by the cardinality of Capricorn, which loves taking the initiative, or the revolutionary, rebellious, electrifying nature of Aquarius’s modern ruling planet, Uranus, people born in January are drawn to thinking five steps ahead. They’re eager to be ahead of the curve, be seen as having cutting-edge, innovative ideas, and make their mark in a novel way. To achieve all of this, their signature progressive thinking can certainly come in handy.
FURTHER: What Your Mayan Astrology Sign Reveals About You
2. IndustriousDuring a time of year when it’s generally cold, and there are more dark hours in the day than during almost any other time of year, it takes a lot of extra get-up-and-go to wake up and power through your day. You have to be hard-working and persistent to be productive in January, and it’s that energy that’s innately wired into people born during this winter month. January-born people set goals they’ll work toward unwaveringly. They’re proud to put their nose to the grindstone to go after a goal that they’ve set their sights on. Because they tend to be visionaries, they set ambitious goals that might seem a bit too bold or out-of-the-box to those who came into the world during a time of year that tends to be less assiduous.
3. ResoluteWhen people born in January have keyed into a specific purpose or achievement they’re determined to hit, they’re fairly unshakable, thanks to their laser-focused, persistent, rock steady nature. They may even struggle to dig in their heels, which could be problematic if the moment calls for pivoting to another game plan. Still, their ability to stay zeroed in on their chosen strategy and do the work to make it across the finish line — no matter how long it takes — is enviable.
4. Rational-MindedAlthough they each have their own style — those born under the Sea Goat tend to be more traditionalist while Water Bearers love striking out against convention —both Capricorn and Aquarius are capable of bold thinking. But for January-born people, science, logic, pragmatism, and concrete data take precedence over fantasy, daydreams, or allowing their imagination to run wild. This can serve them well, as they’re able to lay solid groundwork for even their loftiest goals.
How Much Did Alysa Liu’s Father Spend on Her Skating Career?
Arthur Liu bet everything on his daughter’s Olympic dream—emotionally, financially and personally.
Long before Alysa Liu stood atop the podium at the 2026 Winter Olympics with two gold medals, the 20-year-old’s father had already made the kind of commitment few parents ever would. In a 60 Minutes interview ahead of the Games in January, Arthur revealed just how far he went to support her skating career—ultimately spending between $500,000 and $1 million to help her chase greatness.
“I spared no money, no time,” Arthur admitted. “I just saw talent.”
READ MORE: Alysa Liu Set a Clear Boundary Before Returning to Ice Skating — and It Involved Her Dad
For Arthur, who fled China in the 1990s and later fell in love with figure skating after settling in the United States, Alysa’s rise felt personal. She was a prodigy from the start, winning her first U.S. senior national title at just 13 and defending it the following year. But the trajectory wasn’t seamless. After finishing sixth at the 2022 Beijing Olympics, Liu stunned the skating world by retiring at 16, burned out and disconnected from the sport she once loved.
While it hurt, Arthur respected her choice. When she returned years later, he stepped back, allowing her to take control of her career. That shift proved crucial. Alysa rediscovered her joy, claimed the world championship in 2025 and then delivered the performance of her life in Milan.
READ MORE: Why Olympian Alysa Liu’s Hug With Ami Nakai Is Going Viral
And fans took notice, too—many praised her originality and natural vibe throughout the entire games.
“She skates like she snuck in late at night just to get her feelings out 😭 It’s so natural and relaxed, like she didn’t even plan it she just DID it!” one Tiktok fan observed.
Another said, “I’ve never seen someone skate with so much freedom.”
“She’s just so HAPPY 😭 i’m so glad she’s out here representing us burned out prodigy kids who quit and came back because we love it,” a third stated.
@nbcolympicsAn unforgettable performance from gold medal winner Alysa Liu! 🥇 #WinterOlympics
♬ original sound - NBC Olympics & ParalympicsHer impact extended beyond the medals. After the women’s final at the Milano Ice Skating Arena on February 19, Liu rushed to celebrate Japan’s Ami Nakai, lifting the bronze medalist into a tight embrace that quickly went viral.
“She’s just so cute,” Liu told PEOPLE. “She’s so happy on the ice.” She added that she “could tell” Nakai was thrilled with her scores. “I was like, ‘I gotta celebrate like she did.’”
In the end, Arthur’s investment wasn’t just financial. It was a leap of faith that helped produce one of the defining comeback stories of the 2026 Games.
Beyond the Gates Spoilers: Secrets and Confrontations
A major week is ahead on Beyond the Gates as the CBS soap approaches its first anniversary, with a public cancer announcement, major decisions, and a lingering mystery taking center stage.
Here are the official Beyond the Gates spoilers for February 23 through 27, 2026.
Monday, February 23 - Episode #235Anita Dupree’s (Tamra Tunie) decision to go public with her cancer diagnosis puts her in front of special guest star Gayle King.
There's a break in Hayley Hamilton's (Marquita Goings) mugging case.
June (Jasmine Burke) gives Joey Armstrong (Jon Lindstrom) a valuable tip.
Samantha Richardson (Najah Jackson) struggles to balance life and school.
Tuesday, February 24 - Episode #236
Joey pulls some strings and orchestrates an escape in the process.
Bill Hamilton (Timon Kyle Durrett) gets intel that enrages him while Hayley works to meet Lynette Wise's (Dominique Madison) demands.
Vanessa McBride (Lauren Buglioli) has a favor to ask of her son Donnell McBride (Alex Cheeks).
Kat Richarson (Colby Nixon) has a proposition for Tomas Navarro (Alex Alegria).
Wednesday, February 25 - Episode #237
Eva Thomas (Ambyr Michelle) and her mother Leslie Thomas (Trisha Mann Grant) lock horns over the clinic.
While undercover, Jacob Hawthorne (Jibre Hordges) runs into a familiar face.
Ashley Morgan (Jen Jacob) and Shanice Johnson (Ernestine Johnson) take a trip down memory lane on Ashley's work anniversary.
Derek Baldwin (Ben Gavin) makes a career decision.
Thursday, February 26 - Episode #238
Anita’s televised interview about her cancer diagnosis turns into a citywide call to action.
Leslie decides to do some promotion of her own.
Dani Dupree Richardson (Karla Mosley) and Andre Richardson (Sean Freeman) deal with an unwelcome visitor.
Laura Peterson’s (Destiny Love) unsolved accident from a year ago sets Kat off.
Naomi Hawthorne (Arielle Prepetit) updates Ashley on Jacob moving out.
Friday, February 27 - Episode #239
Nicole Dupree Richardson (Daphnée Duplaix) and Ted Richardson (Keith D. Robinson) worry for their daughter while Kat's confrontation with Leslie and Eva escalates.
Smitty Richardson (Mike Manning) catches up with an old friend.
Vanessa bolsters her bestie.
Chelsea Hamilton (RhonniRose Mantilla) and her cousin have a blow-up.
Izaiah Hawthorne (Lami) gets a surprising meeting request.
Beyond the Gates airs weekdays on CBS and streams weeknights on Paramount+.
Viewers can catch up from the beginning on Paramount+ or on Pluto TV’s dedicated 24/7 Beyond the Gates FAST channel.
Fans Send Love to Kelly Ripa as She Shares Amazing Career News
Kelly Ripa is celebrating 25 years on Live!
"25 years and 20 pics to celebrate. Thank you to this incredible crew of family and friends for going on a fantastic voyage with me! And to all of you, yes YOU for welcoming me into your homes for a quarter century," Ripa captioned an Instagram post on Friday, Feb. 20.
It's a major milestone for Ripa, who first joined Live! in February 2001, taking over for Kathie Lee Gifford. Ripa sat next to the iconic Regis Philbin until he retired in 2011. The former soap star stayed on the show and has had a variety of co-hosts, including Michael Strahan and Ryan Seacrest. In 2023, Ripa's husband, Mark Consuelos, took over the co-hosting role.
View this post on InstagramFans sent love and praise to Ripa on the incredible career achievement.
"CONGRATS! You are incredible. Thank you for being the brightest light on our screens and the biggest cheerleader in life. You are the example, the leader and the coolest ever. We love you, congrats you freakin Queen," one person wrote.
"So proud to have been a small contribution to the show! Proud of you Kelly! Thank you, Gelman and the entire Live family for all the TLC! Sending much love your way! PS come to Palm Springs again," someone else said.
"We loved watching the show today! We love you and we are so proud to be your fans," a third comment read.
Ripa marked the special occasion with the crew—and some of her family members, including her son, Michael.
READ NEXT: Kelly Ripa, 54, Strongly Advised not to Quit Her Talk Show
1974 No. 1 Hit Song by a Studio Band Became the First TV Theme to Top Billboard
In 1974, "TSOP (The Sound of Philadelphia)" became the first TV theme song to Hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100—and it was recorded by a supersized studio house band.
Performed by Philadelphia-based studio musicians MSFB, with female vocal trio The Three Degrees (Sheila Ferguson, Valerie Holiday, and Fayette Pinkney) providing minimal vocals, the instrumental pre-disco hit was released as a single in February 1974, months after it debuted as a new theme for the musical variety show Soul Train. “TSOP” peaked at No. 1 on April 20, 1974, remaining there for two weeks.
Only a handful of other TV themes have had similar chart successes, including the "Theme from S.W.A.T." (S.W.A.T.) and "Welcome Back" (Welcome Back, Kotter), both in 1976.
The hit “TSOP” was written and produced by Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff of Philadelphia International Records. The duo was also the team behind Billy Paul's “Me and Mrs. Jones” and the O'Jays' “Love Train.”
Soul Train creator and presenter Don Cornelius met with Gamble and Huff before they wrote the new theme for his show, per Grammy.com. “TSOP (The Sound of Philadelphia)" replaced the show’s original theme, The Rinkydinks’ “Hot Potato.”
The song was always known as “TSOP,” not the “Soul Train Theme” because Cornelius forbade Soul Train name to be used in the song’s title, a decision he later regretted.
RELATED: 1976 Hit Was So Good, a TV Show was Renamed Before It Was Released
Gamble talked Cornelious into the ‘Soul Train’ theme songGamble once shared that he persuaded Cornelius to have an original theme song for Soul Train.
“I was really happy for Don when he moved to California and (Soul Train) got so big,” Gamble told Billboard in 2012. “I used to talk to him a couple times a week, and I said, ‘Don, you’ve got to get a theme song. Johnny Carson’s got a theme song. Bob Hope’s got ‘Thanks For the Memories.’ For a while, he was like, ‘Nah…,’ but finally he was like, ‘All right, all right, you sold me,’ so I said, ‘Come on to Philly. Let’s see if we can get one.”
"We took Don back to hotel, and Huff and I came back to the office and tinkled on the piano and messed around with a lot of different ideas. Once we came up with that simple thing, ‘Soul train, soul train, dah dah dah dah DAH dah…,’ everything fell into place,” he recalled.
Gamble also noted that Cornelius didn’t want the words Soul Train in the song title because he didn’t want anyone else to have his “brand.”
“We said, ‘But that’s YOUR theme song.’ He said, ‘Nah. Call it anything you want. Don’t call it the ‘Soul Train’ theme,” Gamble revealed. “So we called it ‘TSOP’ and it became a No. 1 record, and every time we’d see him after that he’d say, ‘Dumbest move I ever made.’”
Of the ensemble production—house band MSFB featured over 30 studio musicians—Gamble once told Philadelphia magazine that they all made magic together.
“The number one thing we had going for us was that we all worked together," he told the magazine in 2021. “There was this mystical kingdom of a thing in the room. How you get along with each other. And the music was established from that spirit. You’re sending out vibrations on a lot of our songs, like the Soul Train intro. ‘People all over the world!’ We wrote that. We were reaching out to the whole world. And they answered us back, because the music wound up all over the world. And it still is. You can’t stop it.”
Amazon Is Selling a 'Super Comfy' and 'Stylish' Mock Neck Reebok Sweatshirt for 60% Off
Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.
Sometimes all you want to do is change into your go-to sweatshirt, make dinner, and binge watch your favorite show. Well, in order to get as cozy as possible, you need loungewear that you can count on. Thanks to Amazon, you don't have to spend your weekly paycheck on a new set. Instead, you can add the Reebok Vector Mock Neck Sweatshirt to your wardrobe for up to 60% off.
The clothing was originally priced at $50, but has been reduced to as low as $20 in the gray colorway. You can additionally shop for it in a cream color for $28 (which is still 44% off!). Sizes range from S to XL. On average, shoppers say the sweatshirt is true to size, and remains roomy without looking overly casual. If you prefer the trendy oversized look though, then you may want to consider sizing up.
Reebok Vector Mock Neck Sweatshirt, From $20 (was $50) at AmazonCourtesy of Amazon
The "super comfy" sweatshirt is made of 60% cotton and 40% polyester, which means it's machine washable, but has the ability to shrink. Therefore, follow the care instructions provided on the label to ensure the piece maintains its shape. The pull-on sweatshirt features a mock neckline, long sleeves, ribbed cuffs, and a straight silhouette.
It's 23 inches long, so it stops right around the waist, allowing you to pair it with leggings and jeans easily. One customer noted that it looks "great" with wide leg, high-waisted pants.
Reebok Vector Mock Neck Sweatshirt, From $20 (was $50) at AmazonShoppers described the "amazing" sweatshirt as "super warm," "soft," and "stylish," making it the "perfect" piece to wear all year-round. It's described as midweight, so you can wear it on chillier days in the spring. With the trendy neckline and classic fit, you can easily sport this sweatshirt while running errands, hanging out with friends, etc.
Related: Amazon's $400 Cloud Couch Is the 'Soft and Comfy' Upgrade Your Living Room Needs
The only complaint reviewers have is that it's not available in more colors, so they're stocking up on the available two hues in bulk. Plus, any extras that you shop for would make for a great gift, considering how cute and affordable the sweatshirt is.
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Don't deprive yourself of comfortable loungewear. Shop this Reebok sweatshirt at Amazon before the 60% off deal disappears.
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How Gordon Ramsay Kicked a Hollywood Icon Out Of His Restaurant 'By Accident'
Oops! Beloved TV chefGordon Ramsay admitted he snubbed a Hollywood legend years ago "by accident" and she's "never forgiven him." The Being Gordon Ramsay star visited The Graham Norton Show on Feb. 20 and explained how he ended up on English actress and author Joan Collins' bad side.
Related: Gordon Ramsay, 58, Completes First Triathlon After Bike Crash
"You know I kicked out Joan Collins by accident," he told the host as Norton began asking about whether or not the legendary restauranteur reads reviews. "Well, not quite by accident," Norton contended.
The Golden Globe winner was the guest of a critic named A.A. Gill who had "panned" Ramsay's now-closed London restaurant, Aubergine, shortly before. When the critic showed up, Ramsay said "Um, thanks, but no thanks," and asked them to leave.
"But Joan was his guest, and so she was furious," he laughed. And what he did next only made her more so: "They refused to go, so I just asked my mate to strip the table down to the bare wood." Fellow guests on the couch with Ramsay were stunned, with Jennifer Garner, Charli XCX, and Benicio Del Toro all gaping at the story.
"I did apologize to Joan after it," he promised, "But still to this day, she's never forgiven me."
"Oh, really?" a shocked Norton asked, to which Ramsay laughed, "No, she's fine."
Ramsay has recounted his cooked 1990s beef with the Dame in the past, and the duo put their drama to bed seven years later when Collins appeared on Ramsay's The F Word in 2009.
Related: Bobby Flay Reveals the One TV Chef He’s Still Dying to Compete With
While she was there, he made amends by teaching her to make an omelette. "I would just love to show you something that you can turn around and say 'Yeah, hated the little schmuck seven years ago, however...'" began Ramsay. "No, I didn't hate you," Collins interrupted. "Life's too short to hate!"
The Hell's Kitchen, Next Level Chef, and MasterChef star is usually the one giving feedback to chefs, so it's no surprise that it's not always easy for him to take criticism in stride. "It's hard... when you're being judged by individuals that know less about food than you," he said, assuming it's the same for actors and singers. "Today in the restaurants, everyone's got a phone, everyone's a critic."
Why Everybody Suddenly IS Talking About 'Fight Club'
David Fincher's 'Fight Club' has been a fixture on 'best films ever made' lists for more than two decades. It wasn't always that way. The film was a notorious flop when it was originally released in theaters. Now it's getting a second chance, this time in 4K.
New Regency and 20th Century Studios announced on February 19 that the 1999 film, starring Brad Pitt, Edward Norton, and Helena Bonham Carter,will return to theaters for a one-night-only nationwide event on April 22. The 4K Ultra HD Steelbook and digital release follows on May 12, along with a 25th Anniversary art book from Insight Editions featuring never-before-seen visuals, exclusive interviews, and behind-the-scenes content from the production.
This is the film's first-ever 4K presentation. According to the official release, Fight Club has been 'meticulously restored,' with the goal of bringing 'renewed intensity and clarity to Fincher's uncompromising vision, enhancing the film's striking cinematography and immersive sound design.' Fincher has overseen previous 4K releases of his films, including Se7en and Panic Room, where he made subtle refinements to the original transfers. Whether he's adjusted anything in Fight Club's restoration is not yet confirmed.
Related: 'Stand by Me' Star Is Returning to Stephen King's Story 40 Years Later
The 4K Steelbook edition includes the film's four original commentary tracks from Fincher, Pitt, Norton, Bonham Carter, author Chuck Palahniuk, and screenwriter Jim Uhls, plus a supplemental Blu-ray disc with bonus material including sound design featurettes, behind-the-scenes vignettes, and multiple-angle content from the shoot.
Fight Club's road to cult status is one of the stranger trajectories in modern cinema. When it opened on October 15, 1999, it grossed just $11 million in its opening weekend. That was a significant underperformance for a studio that had bet on Brad Pitt's marquee value to drive audiences in. The film earned $100 million worldwide on a budget of more than $65 million. Roger Ebert gave it two stars. The Los Angeles Times critic Kenneth Turan was so hostile that, according to The Wrap, Fincher sent him a letter in response.
What changed things was the DVD. Fincher personally supervised a bells-and-whistles two-disc special edition released in summer 2000, and the film found its audience through home video in a way it never had in theaters. By the mid-2000s, Fight Club had become one of the most-talked-about films of its generation. It landed on the AFI's 10th Anniversary list. It became shorthand for a certain kind of subversive, anti-consumerist filmmaking that Hollywood rarely attempted.
The film has not been without controversy. Fincher has spoken openly about his discomfort with how some viewers received Tyler Durden not as a warning but as a blueprint. In a 2023 interview with The Guardian, Fincher said the character was intended as a cautionary figure, not a role model.
Tickets for the April 22 theatrical event have not yet gone on sale. Check local theater listings for participating venues as the date approaches. The 4K Ultra HD Steelbook and digital edition are available to pre-order.
1977 Hit Rock Song Voted 'Best Guitar Solo of All Time' Was Released 49 Years Ago Today
Forty-nine years ago today, on February 22, 1977, the Eagles released 'Hotel California' as a single. The song was an immediate hit, and since has become deeply rooted in rock culture in a way that most bands could never dream. It would go on to be recognized by Guitar magazine as having the greatest guitar solo in history.
The track had already been available on the album of the same name since December 1976, but its arrival as a standalone single set an unstoppable push into pop culture in motion. Written by Don Felder, who developed the original instrumental demo on a four-track recorder in his rented Malibu beach house, the song came to life lyrically through Don Henley and Glenn Frey. Its now-iconic opening guitar gave way to one of the most debated sets of lyrics in rock history.
Henley has described the song variously as being about 'the dark underbelly of the American Dream,' 'the excesses of American culture,' and 'a journey from innocence to experience.' That deliberate vagueness is part of what made it so popular. Listeners have spent nearly five decades reading into lines like 'you can check out any time you like, but you can never leave,' finding drug allegories and spiritual allusions. The band largely let the theories pile up.
Related: 60 Years Ago Today: The Recording Session That 'Rewrote the Rules' of Pop
Commercially, the single hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in May 1977, where it stayed for one week. It went gold within three months of release. The album it came from spent eight non-consecutive weeks atop the Billboard 200 and has since sold more than 26 million copies in the United States alone, and is a certified 28-times platinum by the RIAA as recently as January 2026. The Eagles won the Grammy Award for Record of the Year for the song at the 1978 ceremony. In 2003, it was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame.
The guitar work has become its own part of rock lore. The song closes with a 2-minute, 12-second dual solo by Felder and Joe Walsh. They trade leads, then harmonize into the fade. Readers of Guitarist magazine voted it the best guitar solo of all time in 1998. Rolling Stone ranked the song No. 49 on its 2004 list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time, and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame included it among its 500 Songs That Shaped Rock and Roll.
Its impact on pop culture has never really faded. The song opened the first episode of American Horror Story: Hotel in 2015, punctuating the finale. It's turned up in The Sopranos, The X-Files, and Absolutely Fabulous. A Gipsy Kings flamenco cover of it appeared in The Big Lebowski. The phrase 'Hotel California effect' entered the vocabulary of economists describing regulatory traps that are easy to enter and painful to leave.
Henley and Frey reportedly drew inspiration partly from Alfred Hitchcock's Psycho while writing it. Fitting, given how thoroughly the song has creeped its way into the cultural imagination the way a great thriller does.
At the 1998 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony, all seven members of the Eagles (past and present) gathered onstage together for the only time to perform it. That moment alone says something about what the song means to the people who made it.
Forty-nine years in, 'Hotel California' continues to be a foundational song in rock. You may want to check out from the song, but it will never leave.
TSA PreCheck and Global Entry Suspended Amid Government Shutdown: What to Know Before Traveling
Between the blizzard across the Northeast and the Department of Homeland Security's latest move, travelers may be in for a headache. Early Sunday, Feb. 22, Kristi Noem announced a suspension of popular priority security programs TSA PreCheck and Global Entry amid a partial government shutdown.
"TSA and CBP are prioritizing the general traveling population at our airports and ports of entry and suspending courtesy and special privilege escorts," the DHS Secretary told the Associated Press in a statement. The services will be suspended beginning Sunday, Feb. 22, leaving travelers little time to change plans to leave extra time for long security lines. There is currently no end date scheduled for the pause.
Related: Martha Stewart Issues Rare Political Statement After Stern Text From 14-Year-Old Granddaughter
“Shutdowns have serious real world consequences," she continued while pointing the finger at "Democrat politicians" for "shutting down the government" as the two sides struggled to reach an agreement about imposing new restrictions on DHS after the ICE-related deaths of U.S. citizens Alex Pretti and Renée Good in Minnesota.
"Not just for the men and women of DHS and their families who go without a paycheck, but it endangers national security," she continued. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will also halt all “non-disaster related response to prioritize disasters" as a winter storm approaches the Northeast.
DHS Democrats said the suspension of services was not necessary, with Noem "kneecapping the programs that make travel smoother and secure" to "ruin your travel on purpose."
US Travel Association President and CEO Geoff Freeman agreed, telling CNN that his organization was “disgusted” that “Democrats and Republicans have used air traffic controllers, TSA, CBP and the entire travel experience as a means to achieve political ends.”
“Travelers should be prioritized, not leveraged,” he added on X. “Travel is the gateway to the American economy and Americans should not have their mobility, security or travel experience diminished because elected leaders fail to resolve their differences.”
Travelers Should be Prioritized, Not Leveraged
The suspension of TSA PreCheck and Global Entry is extremely disappointing. We are disgusted that over the last 90 days, Democrats and Republicans have used air traffic controllers, TSA, CBP and the entire travel experience as a…
Customers are also frustrated. On her announcement on X, one user accused Noem of making a rash, "angry reaction." Another wrote, "Suspending TSA pre check? Blaming the shutdown. You're Suspending a service ALREADY paid for?! Here's a thought, we suspend your salary."
What Will the TSA PreCheck Shutdown Affect?In addition to TSA PreCheck and Global Entry customers, Noem's plan also pauses airport police escorts for members of Congress.
CLEAR, a private service that uses biometrics to verify I.D. so users can circumvent the standard TSA document check, has not made a statement about the situation. While they could still allow customers to not have to show identification, they would not have access to the PreCheck "fast lanes" they usually use, and will likely not be able to provide the same time-saving benefit they often do.
To ensure a smooth travel day, expect longer lines and delays, ensure you have all the necessary documents, and get to the airport earlier than usual.
I Taste-Tested 24 Jars of Marinara Sauce and the Winner Won by a Landslide
Marinara sauce is one of those grocery-store staples that should be fairly simple—and yet it somehow isn’t. You walk in planning to grab a simple jar of tomato sauce and (if you're anything like me) end up standing in front of the rows and rows of varieties looking a little like the wide-eyed emoji.
There’s organic, imported, kettle-cooked, premium, budget, restaurant-branded, store-branded—and jars that range from less than $2 to well over $10! With all of those options, it's no wonder we’re standing stunned in the supermarket. Somehow, the simplest meal of all—pasta and sauce—has turned into a lesson in choice overload.
To help you cut through all the noise and find the best marinara sauce at the market, I agreed to get lost in the sauce for you (you're welcome). I cook at home often, and while I prefer homemade everything, sometimes I just want a store-bought shortcut that tastes good enough to pass as mine.
With the help of five friends—Jen, Shelby, Maddie, Cherie and Cate—I taste-tested 24 of the most widely available jarred marinara sauces, including national brands, store brands and a few premium options. Some results were expected. Others were genuinely shocking. A few sauces with big reputations completely fell apart, while one store-brand jar surprised nearly everyone at the table.
And yes, one sauce emerged as a clear winner. It's the jar you can keep in your pantry without apology and grab for again and again to rave reviews on your next pasta night.
Related: I Tried 13 Different Brands of Spaghetti and Found a New Favorite
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Courtesy of Jessica Wrubel
All 24 marinara sauces were tasted blind. I transferred each sauce into unmarked ramekins so no one could identify the brand, packaging or price. We tasted the sauces plain and unheated, with a little fusilli on the side, to evaluate flavor, texture and balance.
Each taster filled out a Google Form while sampling, recording their impressions in their own words. I asked everyone to comment on things like flavor, sweetness, acidity, texture and overall appeal, and to identify sauces they particularly liked or disliked.
Courtesy of Jessica Wrubel
At the end, each participant selected their favorite and least favorite sauces, which helped determine the final rankings. After the blind tasting, I revealed the brands and we all rounded out our notes by writing a bit about what surprised us.
Rankings were averaged out based on overall commentary of each sauce—not personal bias or (when it was revealed) the brand itself. Price was also factored in during final scoring. If a jar was going to cost $10, it needed to taste like it.
Keep in mind that what we liked individually throughout the tasting varied greatly (after all, flavor profiles and preferences are pretty subjective), but in the end, we all agreed on the winner.
Courtesy of Jessica Wrubel
Related: I Tried 24 Rao's Sauces and the Winner Tastes 100% Homemade
What I Looked For in a Marinara SauceCourtesy of Jessica Wrubel
A good marinara should taste like tomatoes first and foremost. From there, balance is everything: enough acidity to keep it lively, enough sweetness to round it out and seasoning that supports the tomatoes rather than competing with them.
Texture mattered too. We were looking for sauces that felt cohesive—not mushy, watery, thin, chunky or that left you reaching for the floss. Above all, I asked my friends one simple question: Would you actually buy this one again?
Related: We Made Sauce With 16 Different Canned Tomatoes and the Winner Won by a Landslide
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24 Popular Jarred Marinara Sauces, Ranked Worst to Best24. Walmart Great Value Marinara, $1.74Courtesy of Jessica Wrubel
This was the weakest of the three Walmart sauces we tried. “Hated the consistency of this one—the texture had too many chopped onions and it was pretty thin. Did not like the taste at all,” I wrote.
Several others flagged its watery texture, strange hints of lime and citrus and lack of overall depth, which is how it landed at the bottom of our list.
Related: 101 Classic, Simple and Easy Pasta Recipes That Are Worthy of Dinner Tonight
23. Classico Marinara with Plum Tomatoes & Olive Oil, $4.79Courtesy of Jessica Wrubel
Nostalgia couldn’t save this one. I thought it was metallic-tasting even though my mom used to exclusively buy this when I was a kid.
“Gets stuck on your tongue, hint of an herb that’s been in the back of the cabinet for your whole life,” wrote Shelby. Cherie added, “Tastes metallic and I HATE the chunks. It’s so weird and makes me never want to eat tomato sauce again.” Ouch.
Courtesy of Jessica Wrubel
Expectations were high for this bougie sauce—and that made the letdown pretty tough for us. “Has almost an artificial ketchup-like flavor,” wrote Cate, who ranked it near the bottom. Shelby wrote that it was “stanky,” while everyone else noted its mushiness. I commented that it was a tad smoky. which we all agreed clashed with what we want out of a classic, everyday marinara.
Related: We Ranked 12 Olive Oil Brands and You Can Buy the Winner at Whole Foods
21. Aldi Specially Selected Premium Marinara, $4.29Courtesy of Jessica Wrubel
Of the three Aldi sauces, this was our least favorite. Cate described it as “Kind of plasticky, somehow? Very unpleasant,” and also named it her least favorite overall, while Maddie said it would be well-suited for dipping mozzarella sticks. Cherie liked this one and noted its flavor profile would go well with a summer pasta and Jen thought it was jammy.
Despite its premium positioning, it was the most polarizing of the Aldi bunch.
Courtesy of Jessica Wrubel
This was a step up from the non-organic Walmart marinara, but it still wasn't a favorite. “Thin, visible basil,” wrote Cate. “Very loose. It’s tangy but not very balanced. Kind of like salsa." Others agreed that it was too sweet and thin, creeping toward ketchup territory.
Related: The Genius Way to Make Jarred Pasta Sauce 10x Better
Courtesy of Jessica Wrubel
We were all surprised that we didn’t love Newman’s, especially since most of us are big fans of other Newman’s products. “Struggling to describe [this one] because there's no flavor,” Jen said. The rest of us agreed that this sauce was “grainy” and “sour.”
18. Michael’s of Brooklyn Marinara Sauce, $7.29Courtesy of Jessica Wrubel
This one split my friends into two camps. “Visceral bad reaction to this one. My Italian nonna is spinning in her grave,” wrote Cherie, with Shelby and Jen agreeing. Maddie wrote, “I like the acidic hint! It has a cheesy aftertaste, but also a good mixture of seasoning and can be served with a simple pasta.” “This tastes earthy in a funky kind of way,” said Cate. I liked the simplicity of this one (read: the short ingredient list and homey packaging) but it was a bit too sour for my taste buds.
Related: The Secret Ingredient for Making Jarred Pasta Sauce Taste Like It Came From an Italian Restaurant
Courtesy of Jessica Wrubel
Classic, yes—but not beloved. “Way too sugary, watery texture, needs salt,” wrote Maddie, while Cherie summed it up as “tastes cheap.” While a few of us admitted we generally like inexpensive sauces, this one was too sweet overall for us.
Related: I Tried 13 Bottles of Balsamic Vinegar and You Can Buy the Winner at Walmart
16. Barilla Marinara Sauce, $4.49Courtesy of Jessica Wrubel
Barilla was another one that split the room. “Way too sweet. It reminds me of the sauce in a pizza Lunchable,” wrote Maddie. Cherie had the same association, but the opposite opinion, writing: “Tastes like pizza Lunchable in the best way. Sweet but not overly processed.”
The rest of us noted its herb-forward profile. “Mid,” was all that Jen wrote. Agreed.
Courtesy of Jessica Wrubel
“Bit of spice and zest [but] quite watery and loose,” wrote Cate of this organic sauce. “Sweet, tomatoey and fresh,” said Shelby. It was too thin for my liking, but a pretty middle-of-the-road sauce and a good value for an organic product. Others found it mildly nostalgic but overall unremarkable.
Related: I Made Michael Landon’s Favorite Spaghetti Sauce and It’s Cozy, Comforting and Crowd-Pleasing
14. Aldi Priano Marinara Sauce, $3.19Courtesy of Jessica Wrubel
Priano landed squarely in the middle of the Aldi pack. “Tinny,” wrote Shelby, while Cherie noted it tasted “processed and too sweet.” I wrote that I liked the texture of this one. “It tasted more homemade and slightly sweeter compared to some others.”
We all thought it had a decent herb-forward flavor (but not overpowering).
Courtesy of Jessica Wrubel
“Darker in color, thin and light in flavor. Forgettable,” said Cate. “Bland,” said others. I was surprised at the complete lack of depth and complexity, especially once I found out the brand. It wasn’t unpleasant, but it wasn’t the rich-tasting marinara I was hoping for.
12. Aldi Simply Nature Organic Marinara Sauce, $2.45Courtesy of Jessica Wrubel
This was the best-performing Aldi sauce for us, but we were again pretty split. Most of us agreed that this one could be a good pizza sauce, but it was also called “watery,” by three of us. “I like this one, the texture is smooth, and the flavor is mild. Would make a good base for lasagna or meatballs,” said Cherie.
Among the Aldi trio, Simply Nature was a great value for the price as well as widely available, but it didn’t manage to crack our top 10.
Related: We Tried 10 Different Aldi Pizzas and the Winner Was Very Clear
Courtesy of Jessica Wrubel
This sauce passed through our tasting without much drama. Descriptions such as “chunky” “sweet” and “herbaceous” came up a lot and Cate summed it up nicely: “Tangy like a pizza sauce. Perhaps undersalted as it’s lacking robust flavor.”
While no one hated it, no one picked it as their top favorite either.
Courtesy of Jessica Wrubel
Bertolli delivered exactly what many expected. “Lightly acidic or citrusy. Very bright. Basic,” wrote Cate. Shelby and I were not fans of the chunks, but Maddie loved them: “I like this one! I love chunks and I think with a little more oregano this would be good." This is a serviceable, classic supermarket staple that’s frequently on sale.
9. Mezzetta Family Recipes Marinara Sauce, $8.19Courtesy of Jessica Wrubel
Cate and I both wrote that this one had a slightly “stale” taste and for the price, honestly, we can do better. Others were on the other side of the spectrum and wrote that this one was “light and fresh,” “thicker than the others,” “unfussy,” and a good “crowd pleaser.”
Related: This 5-Ingredient Pasta Recipe Has Been My Family’s Favorite for Generations
Courtesy of Jessica Wrubel
I have to say, I was surprised by this one—it was my personal favorite. It was a noticeable step up from the standard Ragu sauce. While others noted it was too sweet, Cate hit the flavor profile exactly: “Tastes kind of like blended pizza, almost cheesy?"
It didn’t make anyone else’s number one, but this one earned our respect for a humble little supermarket sauce.
Courtesy of Jessica Wrubel
This bulk buy (it's a whopping 32-ounce jar) quietly impressed everyone but me. I thought this one lacked flavor and depth as a whole, even though the texture was there. My friends appreciated its straightforward organic tomato flavor and herb-forward notes, ultimately making it one of the strongest value sauces in our lineup for the size, quality and price.
6. Target Good & Gather Organic Marinara Sauce, $2.99Courtesy of Jessica Wrubel
This Target brand sauce was a sleeper hit. Jen praised it as “wholesome,” and it avoided the sweetness and watery texture trap that dragged down other sauces on this list. “Acid forward, lemony, thicker,” said Shelby. A strong showing for an organic store brand at a good price point.
5. Trader Joe’s Tomato Basil Marinara Sauce, $1.99Courtesy of Jessica Wrubel
Can you ever go wrong with good old TJ’s? This sauce was light, fresh and shockingly good for the price. We all agreed the texture was there, along with the right balance of herbs. The only one to write this one off was Cherie, who noted, “It’s giving Olive Garden (which is not a compliment coming from an Italian).”
Five out of six votes isn’t too bad!
Related: From Bruschetta to Peri-Peri Sauce, Here Are the 17 Most Popular Trader Joe's Condiments, Ranked Worst to Best
Courtesy of Jessica Wrubel
This old standby certainly surprised us when it landed at #4 in this giant list. Shelby ranked it among her favorites, calling it “well seasoned and balanced,” and Jen thought this was “light and fruity.” Not too shabby for a jar that costs less than $3.
3. Mutti Marinara Sauce, $5.99Courtesy of Jessica Wrubel
Expectations for this one were sky-high and it (mostly) delivered. I loved this one and ranked it in my personal top two. It ranked high overall with everyone thanks to its clean tomato flavor, slight peppery flavor and buttery richness. It's a sauce worth grabbing if you see it on the shelves.
2. Walmart Bettergoods Marinara Sauce, $6.34Courtesy of Jessica Wrubel
The biggest surprise of the tasting at reveal time for sure was Walmart’s Bettergoods sauce. “I was surprised by liking the Walmart option as much as I did,” wrote Cate, praising its rustic quality (there are whole cherry tomatoes in this one). Cherie noted a fresher taste than most. And while I loved the texture because it was something different, I wasn’t too keen on the price. However, this was easily the best of the Walmart trio.
Related: I Tried 13 Popular Jarred Alfredo Sauces and the Winner Was Abundantly Clear
1. Rao’s Homemade Marinara Sauce, $7.50Courtesy of Jessica Wrubel
This was the unanimous, all-around winner by far. “Pretty sure this is Rao’s—my favorite. A+++++++ I want to bathe in this,” wrote Cherie, who called this one out by name after one spoonful.
It topped multiple ballots and stood out for balance, richness and clean tomato flavor. (And in case you have been wondering, the correct pronunciation per the company is “Ray-o’s.”)
At $7.50, it's on the more expensive side, but not the most expensive option on the list. Overall, the group thought that the taste and quality were worth the splurge.
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Walmart’s 'Beautiful' Farmhouse TV Stand Has Plenty of Storage, and It’s on Sale for $140
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TV stands might not be the first thing you think about when shopping for living room furniture, but they can truly make or break a space. The right one adds both function and style, blending into your decor while keeping everyday essentials within reach. It also helps hide clutter so your living room feels tidy instead of chaotic.
If your home leans farmhouse-inspired, the Blotout Farmhouse Barn Door TV Stand is a standout option. It’s currently 44% off at Walmart, bringing the price down from $250 to just $140. For a piece that anchors your entire entertainment area, that’s a seriously good deal.
Blotout Farmhouse Barn Door TV Stand, $140 (was $250) at WalmartCourtesy of Walmar
This stand features nine compartments with three-level height-adjustable shelves, making it easy to customize your storage setup. It’s made from high-grade MDF wood and includes five adjustable shelves to fit everything from large electronics to smaller decor pieces. Measuring 66 inches wide, 15.8 inches deep, and 33.5 inches tall, it’s designed to accommodate 65- to 75-inch TVs comfortably.
One especially convenient feature is the built-in power station. It includes two AC outlets and two USB ports, so you can plug in game consoles, speakers, streaming devices, and more without scrambling for extra sockets. The USB ports also make it easy to charge phones and tablets right from your entertainment center.
Related: Walmart Has a 6-Drawer Farmhouse Dresser That Radiates Rustic Charm for Over $100 Off
Style-wise, it nails that modern farmhouse look. Metal corner accents and matching handles add rustic charm, while the combination of classic double barn doors and clear glass panels keeps it feeling updated. The sliding barn doors move left to right, letting you switch between open display space and concealed storage in seconds.
The glass-front panels make it easy to spot your remote or favorite movie, while the solid doors help hide anything you’d rather keep out of sight. It’s a thoughtful mix of display and hidden storage that works well in busy family rooms. Shoppers seem to agree, giving it a 4.5-star rating. One shopper described it as “beautiful,” adding that they’re “very pleased with the sliding barn doors and shelves.” Another shared that it’s “very pretty” and “easy to assemble.”
Shop More Deals- Hlr Mid Century 67-Inch TV Stand, From $180 (was $280) at Walmart
- Edx Modern TV Stand, $62 (was $98) at Walmart
- Linsy Home Modern Farmhouse TV Stand, From $146 (was $300) at Walmart
If you’re ready to upgrade your setup with something that’s both practical and stylish, the Blotout Farmhouse Barn Door TV Stand is a smart pick. With Walmart’s current 44% discount, you can save over $100 and give your living room a fresh, functional focal point.
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