20 days ago
Hey gang! It's your ol' pal Jay. I woke up in a cold sweat after a nightmare about a failed audition from like 20 years ago, so I decided to spread that anxiety 'round the world! See, back in them days, you couldn't just send a self-tape all willy nilly. You had to physically bike on down to some building in a shady part of town, wipe the sweat from your brow, and perform for a little panel of directors and producers.
I don't want to brag, but I got a callback for a Taco Bell commercial. The director asked me to deliver this one line in different ways but still convey that this imaginary burrito was yummy. After a few runs of not getting it right, he seemed to be getting a little perturbed. I rifled off a couple more nervous ones until he stopped me and said, "No. You have to pretend that you're thoroughly enjoying the food. You know… Like an actor."
The room went silent as I shrunk to microscopic proportions. I didn't get the part obviously, but I had a good run back then! Booked some commercials for KFC, Pepsi, Nabob Coffee, and Tetley Tea, so… Ya. I haven't acted in a long time, but don't worry. I still take harsh criticisms on an almost daily basis! If you love cringey audition stories like that, just wait till you see these ones from A-listers. Cringey stuff here, folks. Enjoy.
Source
Source
#like #audition #little #still
I don't want to brag, but I got a callback for a Taco Bell commercial. The director asked me to deliver this one line in different ways but still convey that this imaginary burrito was yummy. After a few runs of not getting it right, he seemed to be getting a little perturbed. I rifled off a couple more nervous ones until he stopped me and said, "No. You have to pretend that you're thoroughly enjoying the food. You know… Like an actor."
The room went silent as I shrunk to microscopic proportions. I didn't get the part obviously, but I had a good run back then! Booked some commercials for KFC, Pepsi, Nabob Coffee, and Tetley Tea, so… Ya. I haven't acted in a long time, but don't worry. I still take harsh criticisms on an almost daily basis! If you love cringey audition stories like that, just wait till you see these ones from A-listers. Cringey stuff here, folks. Enjoy.
Source
Source
#like #audition #little #still
2 months ago
Tennis icon and 18-time Grand Slam champion Chris Evert has been away from her broadcasting duties since her ovarian cancer returned for the third time following her initial diagnosis in 2021. Evert is currently undergoing treatment and has stepped away from broadcasting at Wimbledon and the ongoing US Open.
American sports journalist and senior writer for Sports Illustrated Jon Wertheim shared a heartfelt social media post honoring Evert, noting that she is deeply missed at Flushing Meadows.
[adsot]
"Hearing her voice on the USTA Foundation commercials reminds us that ChrissieEvert is a) so thoroughly decent and charitable and oozing with grace b) so thoroughly missed here," Wertheim wrote on X.
Evert was quick to share a couple of responses to Wertheim's heartfelt post.
#sports
American sports journalist and senior writer for Sports Illustrated Jon Wertheim shared a heartfelt social media post honoring Evert, noting that she is deeply missed at Flushing Meadows.
[adsot]
"Hearing her voice on the USTA Foundation commercials reminds us that ChrissieEvert is a) so thoroughly decent and charitable and oozing with grace b) so thoroughly missed here," Wertheim wrote on X.
Evert was quick to share a couple of responses to Wertheim's heartfelt post.
#sports
2 months ago
Hayden Panettiere starred in memorable '90s commercials for brands like Wendy's, Hershey's and Banana Nut Crunch cereal
Her first commercial appearance was as an infant in a Playskool commercial before landing roles on Guiding Light and Heroes
Panettiere's family confirmed her death at age 36, calling her an "incredible light" who brought joy to many
Hayden Panettiere will be remembered best for acting roles like Nashville and Heroes, but before that, she starred in a handful of iconic commercials in the '90s.
One of Panettiere's earliest commercials was for Wendy's, showcasing the fast-food chain's 99-cent five-piece nugget deal. The 1996 commercial shows a young Panettiere sitting with her "brother's" meal after promising him she'd look after it.
#panettiere #commercials
Her first commercial appearance was as an infant in a Playskool commercial before landing roles on Guiding Light and Heroes
Panettiere's family confirmed her death at age 36, calling her an "incredible light" who brought joy to many
Hayden Panettiere will be remembered best for acting roles like Nashville and Heroes, but before that, she starred in a handful of iconic commercials in the '90s.
One of Panettiere's earliest commercials was for Wendy's, showcasing the fast-food chain's 99-cent five-piece nugget deal. The 1996 commercial shows a young Panettiere sitting with her "brother's" meal after promising him she'd look after it.
#panettiere #commercials
2 months ago
Following Hayden Panettiere's shocking death, fans are resurfacing some of the career revelations she shared in her final months, including her allegation that Neutrogena attempted to end their longtime partnership after she spoke publicly about her postpartum depression.
Now, the brand is speaking out.
In her 2026 memoir "This Is Me: A Reckoning" and interviews promoting the book in May, the 36-year-old said the cosmetics brand, owned by Kenvue, wanted to "fire" her after she shed light on her condition on "Live with Kelly and Michael" in 2015, less than a year after she gave birth to her daughter, Kaya.
Panettiere's comments drew backlash in May from social media users – including one beauty content creator who declared "Neutrogena hates women!" – and criticism of the brand saw renewed fervor after the "Heroes" actress died at age 36 on Aug. 16. One Reddit post, which earned more than 2,500 upvotes, proposed a boycott against Neutrogena. Comments under another post mirrored this sentiment, with one user calling Panettiere's commercials a "core memory" for millennials.
The drama, explained: Will a Neutrogena boycott by Hayden Panettiere's fans work?
#neutrogena #post #boycott
Now, the brand is speaking out.
In her 2026 memoir "This Is Me: A Reckoning" and interviews promoting the book in May, the 36-year-old said the cosmetics brand, owned by Kenvue, wanted to "fire" her after she shed light on her condition on "Live with Kelly and Michael" in 2015, less than a year after she gave birth to her daughter, Kaya.
Panettiere's comments drew backlash in May from social media users – including one beauty content creator who declared "Neutrogena hates women!" – and criticism of the brand saw renewed fervor after the "Heroes" actress died at age 36 on Aug. 16. One Reddit post, which earned more than 2,500 upvotes, proposed a boycott against Neutrogena. Comments under another post mirrored this sentiment, with one user calling Panettiere's commercials a "core memory" for millennials.
The drama, explained: Will a Neutrogena boycott by Hayden Panettiere's fans work?
#neutrogena #post #boycott
2 months ago
Hayden Panettiere's death this week, just five days before her 37th birthday, marks the latest tragic end for a child star. In recent months, Panettiere had become more transparent about the trauma, including **** ual exploitation, she endured as a young actress. The timing of her death is tragic both in light of her age and how recently she appeared to have been winning her fight against addiction. Her efforts to reclaim her autonomy should be acknowledged for what she overcame — and for what fame does to child stars.
Panettiere began appearing in commercials at just 11 months old; by age 5, she'd been in 50. Her breakout role came at age 10, playing a coach's spirited daughter in "Remember the **** ans." Her multiseason portrayals of an indestructible cheerleader on the television series "Heroes" and a troubled country music star on ABC's "Nashville" made her a cultural fixture to millennials.
For decades, the autonomy, safety and happiness of child stars were not a priority for insatiable audiences nor the Hollywood industrial complex. If Panettiere's accounts are any guide, they still aren't.
Off set, however, Panettiere struggled at basically every turn: with an onerous mother, from whom Panettiere was estranged for much of her adult life; drug addiction; alcoholism; depression; and multiple rehab stints. She had relationships with men 10 or more years older than her. She was plied with pills at 15, she revealed this year. Her child custody battle was just one of many traumas dissected in tabloid headlines.
This spring, Panettiere published a memoir, "This Is Me: A Reckoning," that is equal parts appalling and utterly sympathy-inducing. Panettiere bared all, describing her "shortcomings as a mother," her refusal to "blame" anyone else and her grief "for all the hours lost to addiction." The media campaign for the book pulled no punches. Panettiere gave audiences the one thing she refused to further compromise: truth.
#panettiere
Panettiere began appearing in commercials at just 11 months old; by age 5, she'd been in 50. Her breakout role came at age 10, playing a coach's spirited daughter in "Remember the **** ans." Her multiseason portrayals of an indestructible cheerleader on the television series "Heroes" and a troubled country music star on ABC's "Nashville" made her a cultural fixture to millennials.
For decades, the autonomy, safety and happiness of child stars were not a priority for insatiable audiences nor the Hollywood industrial complex. If Panettiere's accounts are any guide, they still aren't.
Off set, however, Panettiere struggled at basically every turn: with an onerous mother, from whom Panettiere was estranged for much of her adult life; drug addiction; alcoholism; depression; and multiple rehab stints. She had relationships with men 10 or more years older than her. She was plied with pills at 15, she revealed this year. Her child custody battle was just one of many traumas dissected in tabloid headlines.
This spring, Panettiere published a memoir, "This Is Me: A Reckoning," that is equal parts appalling and utterly sympathy-inducing. Panettiere bared all, describing her "shortcomings as a mother," her refusal to "blame" anyone else and her grief "for all the hours lost to addiction." The media campaign for the book pulled no punches. Panettiere gave audiences the one thing she refused to further compromise: truth.
#panettiere
2 months ago
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Credit: Liam Daniel/Netflix
Nicole Kidman is known for her best films like Eyes Wide Shut, Moulin Rouge and The Hours but, in recent years, she has also become known for being memed on the internet. From her bizarre reaction to Tweety Bird being brought up on a podcast to her very earnest AMC commercials that have inspired Halloween costumes, Kidman is one of the internet's favorite reaction GIFs. Now. she's humorously discussing one of her most memed Oscars moments, and I love hearing her side of the story.
Kidman and Lioness co-star Zoe Saldaña recently sat down for a Lie Detector interview with Vanity Fair. While promoting the much-waited Lioness Season 3, the duo asked each other questions to get their full honest perspectives on their pop culture presences. Saldaña asked Kidman about the viral video of her awkwardly clapping at the Oscars, to which Kidman said she'd never used this popular clip in her own correspondence with her friends, yet did give some insight into why she was clapping like that. She said:
I've seen one where I was clapping at the Academy Awards like that and my hands were…. I've seen that and I was like, 'Why am I clapping like that?' But I had very expensive jewelry on and I didn't want to destroy it.
#i 've
Credit: Liam Daniel/Netflix
Nicole Kidman is known for her best films like Eyes Wide Shut, Moulin Rouge and The Hours but, in recent years, she has also become known for being memed on the internet. From her bizarre reaction to Tweety Bird being brought up on a podcast to her very earnest AMC commercials that have inspired Halloween costumes, Kidman is one of the internet's favorite reaction GIFs. Now. she's humorously discussing one of her most memed Oscars moments, and I love hearing her side of the story.
Kidman and Lioness co-star Zoe Saldaña recently sat down for a Lie Detector interview with Vanity Fair. While promoting the much-waited Lioness Season 3, the duo asked each other questions to get their full honest perspectives on their pop culture presences. Saldaña asked Kidman about the viral video of her awkwardly clapping at the Oscars, to which Kidman said she'd never used this popular clip in her own correspondence with her friends, yet did give some insight into why she was clapping like that. She said:
I've seen one where I was clapping at the Academy Awards like that and my hands were…. I've seen that and I was like, 'Why am I clapping like that?' But I had very expensive jewelry on and I didn't want to destroy it.
#i 've
2 months ago
Tony Hale recalls being compared to David Schwimmer early in his career but not always in a flattering way
Hale struggled with odd jobs and harsh industry advice before landing his big break on Arrested Development in 2003
He earlier credited Henry Winkler as a mentor who showed him success in Hollywood can coexist with kindness
Tony Hale says that when he first started auditioning for commercials as a young actor, he was compared to David Schwimmer — but not always favorably.
Speaking in a recent episode of Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade, Hale, 55, spoke about how he was going on auditions while simultaneously working "every job under the sun, like cater waitering and all this stuff."
#arrested
Hale struggled with odd jobs and harsh industry advice before landing his big break on Arrested Development in 2003
He earlier credited Henry Winkler as a mentor who showed him success in Hollywood can coexist with kindness
Tony Hale says that when he first started auditioning for commercials as a young actor, he was compared to David Schwimmer — but not always favorably.
Speaking in a recent episode of Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade, Hale, 55, spoke about how he was going on auditions while simultaneously working "every job under the sun, like cater waitering and all this stuff."
#arrested
2 months ago
Hayden Panettiere, the actor who rose to fame as the indestructible cheerleader Claire Bennet on the hit NBC series Heroes, has died at the age of 36. Her representative confirmed the news on Wednesday, sending shockwaves through Hollywood and among fans who grew up watching her evolve from a child star into a primetime mainstay.
A representative for Panettiere confirmed her death. A cause of death was not immediately released. "It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic passing of our beloved Hayden. She was an incredible light and a force of nature who brought immeasurable love and joy to all who knew her — and to the millions who watched her onscreen," her rep said in a statement (via ABC News).
Hayden Panettiere possessed a rare longevity in an industry that often discards young talent. She began her career at just five years old, appearing in commercials before securing a four-year run as Sarah Roberts on the soap opera One Life to Live from 1994 to 1997. She followed that with a role as Lizzie Spaulding on The Guiding Light, making her a daytime television fixture before she reached double digits.
Her transition to film came swiftly. At age nine, she voiced a character in the animated Pixar feature A Bug's Life and appeared opposite Jennifer Aniston in The Object of My Affection. In 2000, she starred as the daughter of Denzel Washington's character in the sports drama Remember the **** ans.
In 2006, Panettiere landed the role that would define her career. Cast as Claire Bennet in Heroes, she became the emotional anchor of the superhero ensemble drama. The show's tagline, "Save the cheerleader, save the world," became a cultural catchphrase.
#claire #life #save
A representative for Panettiere confirmed her death. A cause of death was not immediately released. "It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic passing of our beloved Hayden. She was an incredible light and a force of nature who brought immeasurable love and joy to all who knew her — and to the millions who watched her onscreen," her rep said in a statement (via ABC News).
Hayden Panettiere possessed a rare longevity in an industry that often discards young talent. She began her career at just five years old, appearing in commercials before securing a four-year run as Sarah Roberts on the soap opera One Life to Live from 1994 to 1997. She followed that with a role as Lizzie Spaulding on The Guiding Light, making her a daytime television fixture before she reached double digits.
Her transition to film came swiftly. At age nine, she voiced a character in the animated Pixar feature A Bug's Life and appeared opposite Jennifer Aniston in The Object of My Affection. In 2000, she starred as the daughter of Denzel Washington's character in the sports drama Remember the **** ans.
In 2006, Panettiere landed the role that would define her career. Cast as Claire Bennet in Heroes, she became the emotional anchor of the superhero ensemble drama. The show's tagline, "Save the cheerleader, save the world," became a cultural catchphrase.
#claire #life #save
2 months ago
Hayden Panettiere, the former child actor who became a household name as an indestructible cheerleader on "Heroes" before starring as a troubled country singer on "Nashville," has died. She was 36.
Panettiere's representative confirmed her death to ABC News on Sunday. A cause and other details surrounding her death were not immediately disclosed.
Born Aug. 21, 1989, in Palisades, New York, Panettiere began appearing in commercials before her first birthday. She went on to roles in "One Life to Live," "Guiding Light," "A Bug's Life," "Remember the ****** ans" and "Ice Princess."
Her breakout role came in 2006 as Claire Bennet, a high school cheerleader with regenerative powers, on NBC's "Heroes." The character inspired the show's signature slogan: "Save the cheerleader, save the world."
Panettiere later starred opposite Connie Britton as ambitious country singer Juliette Barnes on the ABC and CMT drama "Nashville." The six-season role showcased her acting and singing abilities and earned her two Golden Globe nominations.
#save #singer #death
Panettiere's representative confirmed her death to ABC News on Sunday. A cause and other details surrounding her death were not immediately disclosed.
Born Aug. 21, 1989, in Palisades, New York, Panettiere began appearing in commercials before her first birthday. She went on to roles in "One Life to Live," "Guiding Light," "A Bug's Life," "Remember the ****** ans" and "Ice Princess."
Her breakout role came in 2006 as Claire Bennet, a high school cheerleader with regenerative powers, on NBC's "Heroes." The character inspired the show's signature slogan: "Save the cheerleader, save the world."
Panettiere later starred opposite Connie Britton as ambitious country singer Juliette Barnes on the ABC and CMT drama "Nashville." The six-season role showcased her acting and singing abilities and earned her two Golden Globe nominations.
#save #singer #death
2 months ago
Clay Matthews is no stranger to being in front of the camera.
During his NFL career with the Green Bay Packers, he appeared in movies, a TV sitcom and many commercials.
And most recently began appearing on FanDuel's "Bussin' With the Boys" podcast, a platform started by two former NFL players.
Matthews might be as comfortable in that role as he was chasing down and sacking quarterbacks.
Now, he's set for a new gig as an NFL studio ***** yst for Netflix.
#green
During his NFL career with the Green Bay Packers, he appeared in movies, a TV sitcom and many commercials.
And most recently began appearing on FanDuel's "Bussin' With the Boys" podcast, a platform started by two former NFL players.
Matthews might be as comfortable in that role as he was chasing down and sacking quarterbacks.
Now, he's set for a new gig as an NFL studio ***** yst for Netflix.
#green
2 months ago
Clay Matthews is no stranger to being in front of the camera.
During his NFL career with the Green Bay Packers, he appeared in movies, a TV sitcom and many commercials.
And most recently began appearing on FanDuel's "Bussin' With the Boys" podcast, a platform started by two former NFL players.
Matthews might be as comfortable in that role as he was chasing down and sacking quarterbacks.
Now, he's set for a new gig as an NFL studio ***** yst for Netflix.
#matthews #green #packers
During his NFL career with the Green Bay Packers, he appeared in movies, a TV sitcom and many commercials.
And most recently began appearing on FanDuel's "Bussin' With the Boys" podcast, a platform started by two former NFL players.
Matthews might be as comfortable in that role as he was chasing down and sacking quarterbacks.
Now, he's set for a new gig as an NFL studio ***** yst for Netflix.
#matthews #green #packers
2 months ago
Saquon Barkley reveals what he'd like to do after he's 'done with football' originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
As Saquon Barkley prepares for his third year with the Philadelphia Eagles -- and his ninth year in the NFL -- the running back is thinking ahead to what would interest him when he puts away his cleats for good.
In an interview with People published on Aug. 12, the Super Bowl champion shared that he would be interested in the entertainment industry.
"I guess you could say I'm used to it now. I would love to do this stuff when I'm done playing football — being on TV," he says.
Barkley has partnered up with C4 -- a pre-workout and fitness supplement brand -- and through the commercials he's done with the brand, he's shared how he's gotten more comfortable in front of the camera.
#Football #shared #brand #preferred
As Saquon Barkley prepares for his third year with the Philadelphia Eagles -- and his ninth year in the NFL -- the running back is thinking ahead to what would interest him when he puts away his cleats for good.
In an interview with People published on Aug. 12, the Super Bowl champion shared that he would be interested in the entertainment industry.
"I guess you could say I'm used to it now. I would love to do this stuff when I'm done playing football — being on TV," he says.
Barkley has partnered up with C4 -- a pre-workout and fitness supplement brand -- and through the commercials he's done with the brand, he's shared how he's gotten more comfortable in front of the camera.
#Football #shared #brand #preferred
3 months ago
United States President Donald Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino found themselves at the center of some controversy together at the FIFA World Cup. Now, as Infantino could be on the verge of losing his position, Trump has spoken out in his defense.
In a social media post on Monday, Trump warned that it would be a "terrible mistake" to replace Infantino as FIFA's president.
Throughout the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Trump and the United States have faced some heavy criticism for a wide variety of reasons.
Fans have expressed frustration at FIFA's decision to allow Trump to hand the trophy to the victors following the World Cup Final, the treatment of Iranian players throughout the tournament, Africa's top referee being denied entry into the country, the Americanization of the sport with commercials during "hydration breaks," an extended Super Bowl style halftime show at the final, and championship rings, and most notably, Trump's involvement in getting the red card suspension to Folarin Balogun overturned.
The Balogun red card situation in particular sparked such widespread outrage throughout the international soccer community. As a result of these controversies, Trump was loudly booed by fans on multiple occasions during his appearance at the match on Sunday, and it sounds like Ceferin refused to attend the game altogether.
#balogun
In a social media post on Monday, Trump warned that it would be a "terrible mistake" to replace Infantino as FIFA's president.
Throughout the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Trump and the United States have faced some heavy criticism for a wide variety of reasons.
Fans have expressed frustration at FIFA's decision to allow Trump to hand the trophy to the victors following the World Cup Final, the treatment of Iranian players throughout the tournament, Africa's top referee being denied entry into the country, the Americanization of the sport with commercials during "hydration breaks," an extended Super Bowl style halftime show at the final, and championship rings, and most notably, Trump's involvement in getting the red card suspension to Folarin Balogun overturned.
The Balogun red card situation in particular sparked such widespread outrage throughout the international soccer community. As a result of these controversies, Trump was loudly booed by fans on multiple occasions during his appearance at the match on Sunday, and it sounds like Ceferin refused to attend the game altogether.
#balogun
3 months ago
Marshall Manning may follow a familiar path in his football career. He has transferred to the Baylor School in Chattanooga, Tennessee — not far from the University of Tennessee, where his father, Peyton Manning, played.
Marshall will be the backup quarterback this season to Keegan Croucher, a 2027 recruit committed to Ole Miss. The 15-year-old Manning appears headed for the starting lineup next fall.
Watch him — better yet, close your eyes and listen — explain his role this season. It's almost like listening to any of the commercials the Indianapolis Colts legend starred in over the years.
"It's hard, having to work all summer and all year," Marshall said, "but maybe not get to go on the field. I feel like it's helped me grow so much."
Joel A. Erickson and Nathan Brown cover the Colts all season. Get more coverage on IndyStarTV and with the Colts Insider newsletter.
#marshall #baylor #school
Marshall will be the backup quarterback this season to Keegan Croucher, a 2027 recruit committed to Ole Miss. The 15-year-old Manning appears headed for the starting lineup next fall.
Watch him — better yet, close your eyes and listen — explain his role this season. It's almost like listening to any of the commercials the Indianapolis Colts legend starred in over the years.
"It's hard, having to work all summer and all year," Marshall said, "but maybe not get to go on the field. I feel like it's helped me grow so much."
Joel A. Erickson and Nathan Brown cover the Colts all season. Get more coverage on IndyStarTV and with the Colts Insider newsletter.
#marshall #baylor #school
3 months ago
The popularity of WNBA superstar Sophie Cunningham continues to soar. Since emerging as an "enforcer" for Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark, Cunningham has built a cult following on social media.
She has been consistently landing new brand deals, popping up in commercials, and even landing a cushy studio job with USA TODAY Sports during the season.
Recently, Cunningham returned to the headlines when she made controversial comments about transgender athletes participating in women's sports. Cunningham made it clear that while there is "room to love everyone," young girls should be protected.
MORE: WNBA suspends Seattle Storm co-owner for confrontation with Sophie Cunningham fans
"I want to protect young girls in a locker room, or young girls in sport who shouldn't have to go against biological men," Cunningham said.
#cunningham #young #sports #since
She has been consistently landing new brand deals, popping up in commercials, and even landing a cushy studio job with USA TODAY Sports during the season.
Recently, Cunningham returned to the headlines when she made controversial comments about transgender athletes participating in women's sports. Cunningham made it clear that while there is "room to love everyone," young girls should be protected.
MORE: WNBA suspends Seattle Storm co-owner for confrontation with Sophie Cunningham fans
"I want to protect young girls in a locker room, or young girls in sport who shouldn't have to go against biological men," Cunningham said.
#cunningham #young #sports #since
3 months ago
The "Who Dey!" chant at Bengals games is one of the best parts of being a Bengals fan and a Cincinnati sports fan. When the Ruler of the Jungle leads The Jungle in the Who Dey chant before kickoff, that gets you going as a fan. After a big touchdown, that's when the "Who Dey!" chant is at its best.
So, where does the chant rank among NFL stadium chants? Sports Illustrated's Karl Rasmussen ranked the 10 best in the NFL, with the "Who Dey!" chant checking in at No. 6. If you've ever wondered how the "Who Dey!" chant came to be, here's how, according to Rasmussen:
The Bengals' chant originated in 1981, stemming from a popular local car commercial and a beloved beer, Hudepohl. Beer vendors at the team's former stomping grounds, Riverfront Stadium, used to offer the local beer by shouting "Hudy!" to fans. That eventually transitioned to "Who Dey," and it evolved further after fans incorporated the song played in commercials by Red Frazier's Ford of Cincinnati, which goes, "Who's going to give you a better deal than Red Frazier … ******* ody!" The combination of both resulted in the Bengals chant. "Who dey? Who dey? Who dey say is gonna beat the Bengals? … ******* ody!"
Rasmussen also ******* yzes the comparison between the "Who Dey!" chant in Cincinnati and the "Who Dat!" chant in New Orleans that Saints fans do in the Superdome. In fact, he ranked the "Who Dat!" chant No. 5, one spot above the Bengals. Of course, there's an ongoing debate between the two teams of which chant came first.
One of my favorite memories as a Bengals fan was being at the Bengals-Saints game in New Orleans four years ago. There were so many Bengals fans who made the trip for the game. Before kickoff, Saints fans started doing the "Who Dat!" chant. In response, Bengals fans started doing the "Who Dey!" chant. It was dueling chants, making for an awesome pregame environment.
#beer #best #jungle #orleans
So, where does the chant rank among NFL stadium chants? Sports Illustrated's Karl Rasmussen ranked the 10 best in the NFL, with the "Who Dey!" chant checking in at No. 6. If you've ever wondered how the "Who Dey!" chant came to be, here's how, according to Rasmussen:
The Bengals' chant originated in 1981, stemming from a popular local car commercial and a beloved beer, Hudepohl. Beer vendors at the team's former stomping grounds, Riverfront Stadium, used to offer the local beer by shouting "Hudy!" to fans. That eventually transitioned to "Who Dey," and it evolved further after fans incorporated the song played in commercials by Red Frazier's Ford of Cincinnati, which goes, "Who's going to give you a better deal than Red Frazier … ******* ody!" The combination of both resulted in the Bengals chant. "Who dey? Who dey? Who dey say is gonna beat the Bengals? … ******* ody!"
Rasmussen also ******* yzes the comparison between the "Who Dey!" chant in Cincinnati and the "Who Dat!" chant in New Orleans that Saints fans do in the Superdome. In fact, he ranked the "Who Dat!" chant No. 5, one spot above the Bengals. Of course, there's an ongoing debate between the two teams of which chant came first.
One of my favorite memories as a Bengals fan was being at the Bengals-Saints game in New Orleans four years ago. There were so many Bengals fans who made the trip for the game. Before kickoff, Saints fans started doing the "Who Dat!" chant. In response, Bengals fans started doing the "Who Dey!" chant. It was dueling chants, making for an awesome pregame environment.
#beer #best #jungle #orleans
3 months ago
If you've been a fan of the Washington Commanders for a while, then you've certainly heard of Eastern Motors. You didn't have to live in Northern Virginia to know of Eastern Motors. For over 20 years, Washington players have partnered with Easterns to do commercials ahead of the new season.
Players such as Clinton Portis, Sean Taylor, Santana Moss, Chris Cooley, Kirk Cousins, LaVar Arrington and Terry McLaurin have starred in advertisements. NHL legend Alexander Ovechkin has been a part of the Eastern family, too.
As for McLaurin, he's back to do another commercial for Easterns, now known as Easterns Automotive Group, for 2026. He brought a new partner this time around: rookie linebacker Sonny Styles.
Easterns has multiple locations throughout the DMV, mostly in Maryland. McLaurin and Styles showed up ready for work on Thursday.
In this clip, you hear the famous Eastern Motors jingle in the background as Styles and McLaurin dance. In case you needed a reminder:
#eastern #styles #washington #you 've
Players such as Clinton Portis, Sean Taylor, Santana Moss, Chris Cooley, Kirk Cousins, LaVar Arrington and Terry McLaurin have starred in advertisements. NHL legend Alexander Ovechkin has been a part of the Eastern family, too.
As for McLaurin, he's back to do another commercial for Easterns, now known as Easterns Automotive Group, for 2026. He brought a new partner this time around: rookie linebacker Sonny Styles.
Easterns has multiple locations throughout the DMV, mostly in Maryland. McLaurin and Styles showed up ready for work on Thursday.
In this clip, you hear the famous Eastern Motors jingle in the background as Styles and McLaurin dance. In case you needed a reminder:
#eastern #styles #washington #you 've
3 months ago
Ryan Clark, one of ESPN's most recognizable NFL ****** ysts, reportedly learned he was fired while he was still at work. Karl Ravech, the steady voice of ESPN's baseball coverage for more than three decades, was gone too. Just like that, two familiar faces disappeared. Social media reacted the way it always does when a network parts ways with people viewers have welcomed into their living rooms for years.
How could ESPN do this? What are they thinking? Doesn't loyalty count for anything anymore? Those are understandable questions. They're also usually asked by people who don't work in the business. I've been there.
KNBR, the iconic San Francisco Bay Area sports radio station, let me go in November 2024 after nearly a decade. We had strong ratings. We were reading plenty of live commercials. By every meaningful business metric, the show was successful. I didn't suddenly forget how to do radio, and listeners didn't suddenly stop listening. The station simply decided it could create a similar product for less money.
That isn't bitterness. It's business.
Fans often ****** ume talented people lose their jobs because they stopped being talented. That is almost never how it works. Ryan Clark is talented. Karl Ravech is talented. Sports media is full of people who are very good at what they do but no longer work where they built their reputations. They didn't all suddenly become worse at their jobs.
#talented #ravech
How could ESPN do this? What are they thinking? Doesn't loyalty count for anything anymore? Those are understandable questions. They're also usually asked by people who don't work in the business. I've been there.
KNBR, the iconic San Francisco Bay Area sports radio station, let me go in November 2024 after nearly a decade. We had strong ratings. We were reading plenty of live commercials. By every meaningful business metric, the show was successful. I didn't suddenly forget how to do radio, and listeners didn't suddenly stop listening. The station simply decided it could create a similar product for less money.
That isn't bitterness. It's business.
Fans often ****** ume talented people lose their jobs because they stopped being talented. That is almost never how it works. Ryan Clark is talented. Karl Ravech is talented. Sports media is full of people who are very good at what they do but no longer work where they built their reputations. They didn't all suddenly become worse at their jobs.
#talented #ravech
3 months ago
This story was originally published on Payments Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily Payments Dive newsletter.
With no sign of innovation in payments slowing down, five podcasts below might help listeners keep up on the latest trends in payments and provide insights to fine tune plans for 2027.
Already in the first half of this year, stablecoins took a big step toward becoming a mainstream payment option, payments providers advanced their artificial intelligence strategies and cybersecurity firms pursued stronger data security tools to thwart criminals.
While most of the podcasts reviewed below avoid sponsored content, some of those commercials do show up, usually with disclosures.
For the rest of the summer, maybe you want to ditch a book and take one of these five payments industry podcasts to the beach instead.
#payments
With no sign of innovation in payments slowing down, five podcasts below might help listeners keep up on the latest trends in payments and provide insights to fine tune plans for 2027.
Already in the first half of this year, stablecoins took a big step toward becoming a mainstream payment option, payments providers advanced their artificial intelligence strategies and cybersecurity firms pursued stronger data security tools to thwart criminals.
While most of the podcasts reviewed below avoid sponsored content, some of those commercials do show up, usually with disclosures.
For the rest of the summer, maybe you want to ditch a book and take one of these five payments industry podcasts to the beach instead.
#payments
4 months ago
WWE Raw on July 13, 2026, took place at American Airlines Center in Dallas, and featured a contract signing with Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins.
With Saturday Night's Main Event and SummerSlam rapidly approaching, there were matches set for both events. There was only one match with stakes on the show: a No. 1 contender match for the men's Intercontinental Championship. IYO SKY picked up a win over Roxanne Perez and a rough-looking Lyra Valkyria now has a match against Bayley at SNME. A six-man tag between The Usos and Jacob Fatu is set for SummerSlam against Royce Keys, LA Knight, and Solo Sikoa. There was also a teaser for the return of Big Cass.
Here are the top takeaways from this week's show:
Before we get into the takeaways of what went down in the ring, an observation about this show must be stated.
The commercial breaks are ridiculous. They are poorly timed, and the frequency is too high. Multiple entrances were skimped this week in favor of commercials. For example, a commercial ran right as Je'Von Evans entered the gauntlet match. On the return, he was already hurt, outside of the ring.
With Saturday Night's Main Event and SummerSlam rapidly approaching, there were matches set for both events. There was only one match with stakes on the show: a No. 1 contender match for the men's Intercontinental Championship. IYO SKY picked up a win over Roxanne Perez and a rough-looking Lyra Valkyria now has a match against Bayley at SNME. A six-man tag between The Usos and Jacob Fatu is set for SummerSlam against Royce Keys, LA Knight, and Solo Sikoa. There was also a teaser for the return of Big Cass.
Here are the top takeaways from this week's show:
Before we get into the takeaways of what went down in the ring, an observation about this show must be stated.
The commercial breaks are ridiculous. They are poorly timed, and the frequency is too high. Multiple entrances were skimped this week in favor of commercials. For example, a commercial ran right as Je'Von Evans entered the gauntlet match. On the return, he was already hurt, outside of the ring.
4 months ago
New York Giants training camp is two weeks away. That reality is at the forefront of everything being written about the Giants right now. Let’s get to the headlines.
“One-hundred percent, yes, truly an opportunity,” Harbaugh said In an interview with the Dominique Foxworth Show. “Those are welcome things because those are going to happen. Those types of things — I told the guys, this is not a one-off. This is not the first time we’re going to be thrown into this very thing, the political, social discourse. So we have to have conversations in a reasonable — in a way that respects one another. So, how are we going to go about this? What do you guys think?
“And, really, honestly, Dominique, I didn’t have to do anything. I didn’t have to say anything, really. The players said it. They laid the ground rules down for the guys and decided how it would be approached going forward. So now, when these waves keep coming in from the ocean and crash against our shore, I think we’ll be better prepared for them going forward because we’ll be expecting them. And we’ll be talking about how we’re going to deal with them.”
Perhaps the most critical part to any success for the Giants in Harbaugh’s first season and beyond will be tied to Jaxson Dart’s progression throughout the summer and into the 2026 season. His presence in the spring has garnered headlines on a much wider scale than anticipated, and with that comes the pressure to deliver – both internal, which is always present for Dart, and external from those ready to make a judgment on the Giants’ quarterback after every play.
And it’s already started: the borderline disrespect of Dart’s game with cries of how he has not done enough to celebrate the Knicks’ championship with teammates or appear in Crocs commercials on social media with Cam Skattebo, that he is acting as if he has accomplished more than he has so far and supposedly tearing apart the locker room by veering into the great political divide. That’s all a crock, of course, but perception becomes reality when critics don’t care about taking the time to figure out what’s real and what’s imagined.
“One-hundred percent, yes, truly an opportunity,” Harbaugh said In an interview with the Dominique Foxworth Show. “Those are welcome things because those are going to happen. Those types of things — I told the guys, this is not a one-off. This is not the first time we’re going to be thrown into this very thing, the political, social discourse. So we have to have conversations in a reasonable — in a way that respects one another. So, how are we going to go about this? What do you guys think?
“And, really, honestly, Dominique, I didn’t have to do anything. I didn’t have to say anything, really. The players said it. They laid the ground rules down for the guys and decided how it would be approached going forward. So now, when these waves keep coming in from the ocean and crash against our shore, I think we’ll be better prepared for them going forward because we’ll be expecting them. And we’ll be talking about how we’re going to deal with them.”
Perhaps the most critical part to any success for the Giants in Harbaugh’s first season and beyond will be tied to Jaxson Dart’s progression throughout the summer and into the 2026 season. His presence in the spring has garnered headlines on a much wider scale than anticipated, and with that comes the pressure to deliver – both internal, which is always present for Dart, and external from those ready to make a judgment on the Giants’ quarterback after every play.
And it’s already started: the borderline disrespect of Dart’s game with cries of how he has not done enough to celebrate the Knicks’ championship with teammates or appear in Crocs commercials on social media with Cam Skattebo, that he is acting as if he has accomplished more than he has so far and supposedly tearing apart the locker room by veering into the great political divide. That’s all a crock, of course, but perception becomes reality when critics don’t care about taking the time to figure out what’s real and what’s imagined.
4 months ago
SEATTLE — Christian Pulisic imagined a better end to this World Cup.
Instead, it was more of the same.
Pulisic has been the face of the U.S. men's national team for more than a decade now and has little to show for it. Some regional **** les, a couple of dominant wins against archrival Mexico, a bunch of commercials this summer … and two disappointing finishes at the World Cup.
For the second consecutive tournament, the USMNT exited the World Cup in the round of 16. And just like four years ago, the Americans were thoroughly outclassed in their last game.
"Anytime you lose — even if we made it to the semis, we lost — it's the same feeling at the end," Pulisic said after the 4-1 loss to Belgium.
Instead, it was more of the same.
Pulisic has been the face of the U.S. men's national team for more than a decade now and has little to show for it. Some regional **** les, a couple of dominant wins against archrival Mexico, a bunch of commercials this summer … and two disappointing finishes at the World Cup.
For the second consecutive tournament, the USMNT exited the World Cup in the round of 16. And just like four years ago, the Americans were thoroughly outclassed in their last game.
"Anytime you lose — even if we made it to the semis, we lost — it's the same feeling at the end," Pulisic said after the 4-1 loss to Belgium.
4 months ago
Former ESPN president John Skipper admits it “stings” to have to flip on Fox to watch the World Cup.
Skipper’s frustrations are justified on a personal level. The ex-ESPN president ushered the Worldwide Leader through coverage of three World Cups in 2006, 2010, and 2014, only to, in his estimation, lose the broadcast rights for subsequent tournaments due to a corrupt bidding process spearheaded by FIFA. Skipper would testify to that end in federal court, but the damage was already done. Fox kept broadcast rights for the 2018 and 2022 tournaments, and was subsequently granted rights for the 2026 edition via a no-bid contract after FIFA was forced to move the 2022 tournament in Qatar out of its traditional summer window and into November and December to avoid the desert heat.
But it’s not just the World Cup departing ESPN for Fox that has Skipper upset. It’s that he believes the quality of coverage on ESPN was superior to what Fox is currently putting out.
“Does it bother me that I put on the television and I have to watch Fox in order to see the World Cup? Yeah, **** yeah, it bothers me,” Skipper said on a recent episode of Pablo Torre Finds Out. “Somebody asked me how they were doing in production, and I finally found the right answer. It’s the second-greatest production of the World Cup ever. So they’re doing okay. But it’s not the greatest production of the World Cup ever.
“I take pride in the fact that we at ESPN were right about this, that George [Bodenheimer] supported me, we went out and did it. We built the World Cup in ’06, ’10, and ’14. We celebrated the event, we spent a boatload of money doing stories. …Wright Thompson went into the favelas to do reports, in South Africa Sal Masekela took us inside Soweto, we had Hugh Masekela do the music. We did stories, we did documentaries, we had shoulder programming. We had studio shows that lasted overnight. I watched Netherlands-Morocco the other night, what a game, and it’s over. They go to like nine hours of commercials, and I think James Corden is coming on for some reason. …I wanted to watch five hours of commentary, to listen to people break the game down.”
Skipper’s frustrations are justified on a personal level. The ex-ESPN president ushered the Worldwide Leader through coverage of three World Cups in 2006, 2010, and 2014, only to, in his estimation, lose the broadcast rights for subsequent tournaments due to a corrupt bidding process spearheaded by FIFA. Skipper would testify to that end in federal court, but the damage was already done. Fox kept broadcast rights for the 2018 and 2022 tournaments, and was subsequently granted rights for the 2026 edition via a no-bid contract after FIFA was forced to move the 2022 tournament in Qatar out of its traditional summer window and into November and December to avoid the desert heat.
But it’s not just the World Cup departing ESPN for Fox that has Skipper upset. It’s that he believes the quality of coverage on ESPN was superior to what Fox is currently putting out.
“Does it bother me that I put on the television and I have to watch Fox in order to see the World Cup? Yeah, **** yeah, it bothers me,” Skipper said on a recent episode of Pablo Torre Finds Out. “Somebody asked me how they were doing in production, and I finally found the right answer. It’s the second-greatest production of the World Cup ever. So they’re doing okay. But it’s not the greatest production of the World Cup ever.
“I take pride in the fact that we at ESPN were right about this, that George [Bodenheimer] supported me, we went out and did it. We built the World Cup in ’06, ’10, and ’14. We celebrated the event, we spent a boatload of money doing stories. …Wright Thompson went into the favelas to do reports, in South Africa Sal Masekela took us inside Soweto, we had Hugh Masekela do the music. We did stories, we did documentaries, we had shoulder programming. We had studio shows that lasted overnight. I watched Netherlands-Morocco the other night, what a game, and it’s over. They go to like nine hours of commercials, and I think James Corden is coming on for some reason. …I wanted to watch five hours of commentary, to listen to people break the game down.”
4 months ago
As the American World Cup broadcaster, Fox was already partial towards the success of the U.S. Men’s National Team. But now, it’s clear that there’s a pretty big financial reward at stake for the network if the Americans make a deep run in the tournament.
Fox stands to make upwards of $2 million per 30-second ad spot for a USMNT World Cup game if the team advances to the semifinal or final, according to a report by Michael McCarthy in Front Office Sports. For reference, recent Super Bowl ads have been sold for around $8 million a piece.
Per Front Office Sports, Fox was already selling some commercials for close to $1 million during the first two USMNT matches, both of which performed extremely well from a viewership standpoint. The team’s opening game against Paraguay scared up 16 million viewers on Fox, while the second game against Australia drew about 15 million viewers last Friday.
The advertising windfall Fox stands to earn from this World Cup has been well-documented, particularly in the context of the mandatory hydration breaks FIFA have implemented, which allow broadcasters to show several minutes of mid-game commercials during each match. Conservatively, Fox will earn $250 million from the hydration break advertising alone, though other estimates peg the potential revenue at over $500 million. Fox paid just $485 million for broadcast rights to this World Cup.
It’s no surprise that a deep run by the Americans could provide and even bigger profit engine for Fox, but the magnitude of that profit is still yet to be seen. While estimates suggest a semifinal or final with the U.S. participating could attract upwards of $2 million per spot, if viewership for the USMNT’s round-of-32 or round-of-16 matches exceed expectations, those ad rates could go higher still.
Fox stands to make upwards of $2 million per 30-second ad spot for a USMNT World Cup game if the team advances to the semifinal or final, according to a report by Michael McCarthy in Front Office Sports. For reference, recent Super Bowl ads have been sold for around $8 million a piece.
Per Front Office Sports, Fox was already selling some commercials for close to $1 million during the first two USMNT matches, both of which performed extremely well from a viewership standpoint. The team’s opening game against Paraguay scared up 16 million viewers on Fox, while the second game against Australia drew about 15 million viewers last Friday.
The advertising windfall Fox stands to earn from this World Cup has been well-documented, particularly in the context of the mandatory hydration breaks FIFA have implemented, which allow broadcasters to show several minutes of mid-game commercials during each match. Conservatively, Fox will earn $250 million from the hydration break advertising alone, though other estimates peg the potential revenue at over $500 million. Fox paid just $485 million for broadcast rights to this World Cup.
It’s no surprise that a deep run by the Americans could provide and even bigger profit engine for Fox, but the magnitude of that profit is still yet to be seen. While estimates suggest a semifinal or final with the U.S. participating could attract upwards of $2 million per spot, if viewership for the USMNT’s round-of-32 or round-of-16 matches exceed expectations, those ad rates could go higher still.
4 months ago
World Cup uniform suppliers are almost as integral to the tournament as the teams themselves.
Their logos are seen in every match. Their commercials have filled broadcasts — and feature celebrities like Timothee Chalamet and Kim Kardashian. Their pink boots have been a hot talking point all tournament long.
At the two-thirds mark of the group stage, USA TODAY decided to look at which brands are dominating the field of play and which are lagging behind.
Adidas, which is kitting out 14 teams at the 2026 World Cup, has four teams with perfect 2-0 marks, while 12-team supplier Nike has three. Adidas is led by Argentina, Colombia, Germany and Mexico, while Nike has France, Norway and the United States.
No other brand is supplying a team with a so far perfect tournament.
Their logos are seen in every match. Their commercials have filled broadcasts — and feature celebrities like Timothee Chalamet and Kim Kardashian. Their pink boots have been a hot talking point all tournament long.
At the two-thirds mark of the group stage, USA TODAY decided to look at which brands are dominating the field of play and which are lagging behind.
Adidas, which is kitting out 14 teams at the 2026 World Cup, has four teams with perfect 2-0 marks, while 12-team supplier Nike has three. Adidas is led by Argentina, Colombia, Germany and Mexico, while Nike has France, Norway and the United States.
No other brand is supplying a team with a so far perfect tournament.
4 months ago
It’s been very easy, and not unreasonable, to spend the first week of this World Cup being annoyed at Fox.
The network botched its handling of FIFA’s new hydration breaks in the tournament opener, returning from commercial after play had already resumed, not once, but during both stoppages of the same match. Fans have been unhappy about the ad-stuffed hydration breaks themselves, a complaint that has nothing to do with Fox specifically but everything to do with the experience of watching the tournament on Fox. And there’s been a growing piece comparing Fox’s disfavor with Telemundo, the Spanish-language broadcaster that skipped the in-break commercials and has been rewarded with no shortage of “just watch it in Spanish” sentiment online.
All of that is fair, but if we’re going to throw Fox a bone on something this World Cup, it should be this: the outdoor sets have been genuinely good. Not good for a soccer broadcast on an NFL-shaped network still figuring out the sport after a decade of trying. Just good, full stop.
Fox said this was the plan all along, with production VP Zac Kenworthy telling the Philadelphia Inquirer prior to the biggest production in company history that Fox was going to build around getting the desk out of the studio and into the crowd for the matches that mattered most.
“There’s a real concerted effort on our part to be as present as possible for the marquee matches,” Kenworthy said. “Of course, I know this is a World Cup with 48 teams — there are plenty of big matches. But when you look at the calendar, the real marquee games and where it makes sense for us to be, also taking travel into account, the goal is to be as mobile as we can.”
The network botched its handling of FIFA’s new hydration breaks in the tournament opener, returning from commercial after play had already resumed, not once, but during both stoppages of the same match. Fans have been unhappy about the ad-stuffed hydration breaks themselves, a complaint that has nothing to do with Fox specifically but everything to do with the experience of watching the tournament on Fox. And there’s been a growing piece comparing Fox’s disfavor with Telemundo, the Spanish-language broadcaster that skipped the in-break commercials and has been rewarded with no shortage of “just watch it in Spanish” sentiment online.
All of that is fair, but if we’re going to throw Fox a bone on something this World Cup, it should be this: the outdoor sets have been genuinely good. Not good for a soccer broadcast on an NFL-shaped network still figuring out the sport after a decade of trying. Just good, full stop.
Fox said this was the plan all along, with production VP Zac Kenworthy telling the Philadelphia Inquirer prior to the biggest production in company history that Fox was going to build around getting the desk out of the studio and into the crowd for the matches that mattered most.
“There’s a real concerted effort on our part to be as present as possible for the marquee matches,” Kenworthy said. “Of course, I know this is a World Cup with 48 teams — there are plenty of big matches. But when you look at the calendar, the real marquee games and where it makes sense for us to be, also taking travel into account, the goal is to be as mobile as we can.”
5 months ago
Virgil van Dijk had already scored in the Netherlands’ World Cup opener, but one new tournament rule still left him frustrated after the draw with **** an.
The Dutch captain headed the Netherlands in front at AT&T Stadium in Dallas, only for **** an to fight back in a 2-2 Group F draw. Van Dijk played a strong individual game, but his postgame answer showed his concern went beyond the result.
That is what made the moment interesting. He was not rejecting player safety, but he clearly questioned whether every World Cup match needs the same stoppage, no matter the conditions.
Van Dijk YouTube showed the Netherlands captain being asked about a hydration break in an indoor stadium, and his answer focused on commercials and the viewing experience.
Van Dijk said, “I think hydration breaks are really interesting. I was obviously watching almost all of the games up until today. I think every time going to commercials is a bit, not really something that I like.
The Dutch captain headed the Netherlands in front at AT&T Stadium in Dallas, only for **** an to fight back in a 2-2 Group F draw. Van Dijk played a strong individual game, but his postgame answer showed his concern went beyond the result.
That is what made the moment interesting. He was not rejecting player safety, but he clearly questioned whether every World Cup match needs the same stoppage, no matter the conditions.
Van Dijk YouTube showed the Netherlands captain being asked about a hydration break in an indoor stadium, and his answer focused on commercials and the viewing experience.
Van Dijk said, “I think hydration breaks are really interesting. I was obviously watching almost all of the games up until today. I think every time going to commercials is a bit, not really something that I like.
5 months ago
As World Cup fever takes hold, commercials become more patriotic, the U.S. national team jerseys suddenly appear on the backs of influencers, and a few outlets inevitably dust off the “monthlong Super Bowl” take. All of which is magnified this summer as the U.S. co-hosts the 2026 edition.
The U.S. men’s national team did its part to fuel this optimism, opening the tournament with a 4-1 statement win over Paraguay on Friday. Even the staunchest skeptics were forced to acknowledge the progress on display. After the victory, the U.S’s odds of advancing from Group D soared to 97 percent.
The potential is obvious. But while the result provided a jolt of enthusiasm, the reality is that the United States remains a work in progress, rather than a genuine contender to lift the trophy.
Except the U.S. has won a World Cup — four, in fact, including one at home — and five Olympic gold medals and produced a Ballon d’Or winner. It has also regularly been ranked the best in the world. The U.S. has bona fide soccer superstars. However, the players who transcended the sport, changed culture and are among the world’s top 100 players are sitting at home … because their World Cup is next summer in Brazil at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
In April, the U.S. men’s head coach, Mauricio Pochettino, offered perhaps the most melodramatic ***** sment of the U.S. men’s national team after back-to-back losses in international friendlies.
The U.S. men’s national team did its part to fuel this optimism, opening the tournament with a 4-1 statement win over Paraguay on Friday. Even the staunchest skeptics were forced to acknowledge the progress on display. After the victory, the U.S’s odds of advancing from Group D soared to 97 percent.
The potential is obvious. But while the result provided a jolt of enthusiasm, the reality is that the United States remains a work in progress, rather than a genuine contender to lift the trophy.
Except the U.S. has won a World Cup — four, in fact, including one at home — and five Olympic gold medals and produced a Ballon d’Or winner. It has also regularly been ranked the best in the world. The U.S. has bona fide soccer superstars. However, the players who transcended the sport, changed culture and are among the world’s top 100 players are sitting at home … because their World Cup is next summer in Brazil at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
In April, the U.S. men’s head coach, Mauricio Pochettino, offered perhaps the most melodramatic ***** sment of the U.S. men’s national team after back-to-back losses in international friendlies.
5 months ago
For more than two decades, Americans have lived with a peculiar feature of their healthcare system: television commercials in which smiling actors jog through sunlit parks, while a voice rapidly lists side effects ranging from nausea to death. Direct-to-consumer pharmaceutical advertising has become so normalized that it is easy to forget how unusual it is globally.
The United States is effectively the only country in the world that allows this practice. Most advanced nations have concluded that prescription drugs are fundamentally different from ordinary consumer products, and that medical decisions should be guided by physicians and evidence — not billion-dollar advertising campaigns designed to manufacture demand.
At long last, this expensive and harmful practice may finally be under real political pressure.
Across the country, a new bipartisan skepticism is emerging around the role of pharmaceutical advertising in shaping both healthcare costs and medical decision-making. These efforts are not confined to one ideological camp. They reflect a growing consensus across the left, right, and populist movements that the current system is distorting both medicine and markets.
At the federal level, independent Sens. Bernie Sanders (Vt.) and Angus King (Maine) have introduced legislation that would ban prescription drug advertising nationwide. At the same time, Sens. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) have advanced bipartisan legislation to eliminate the federal tax deduction for pharmaceutical advertising expenses, ending a taxpayer subsidy for drug marketing.
The United States is effectively the only country in the world that allows this practice. Most advanced nations have concluded that prescription drugs are fundamentally different from ordinary consumer products, and that medical decisions should be guided by physicians and evidence — not billion-dollar advertising campaigns designed to manufacture demand.
At long last, this expensive and harmful practice may finally be under real political pressure.
Across the country, a new bipartisan skepticism is emerging around the role of pharmaceutical advertising in shaping both healthcare costs and medical decision-making. These efforts are not confined to one ideological camp. They reflect a growing consensus across the left, right, and populist movements that the current system is distorting both medicine and markets.
At the federal level, independent Sens. Bernie Sanders (Vt.) and Angus King (Maine) have introduced legislation that would ban prescription drug advertising nationwide. At the same time, Sens. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) have advanced bipartisan legislation to eliminate the federal tax deduction for pharmaceutical advertising expenses, ending a taxpayer subsidy for drug marketing.
5 months ago
Rumer Willis's ex-boyfriend Derek Richard Thomas has accused her of exploiting their three-year-old daughter, Louetta, in the latest update to their bitter custody battle.
After Thomas and Willis, the daughter of actors Bruce Willis and Demi Moore, broke up following the birth of their only daughter in 2023, the custody battle over Louetta began in July 2025 when Thomas requested joint legal and physical custody of the girl along with visitation rights.
Willis, 37, and Moore filed legal documents in Los Angeles last month opposing Thomas' request for a child custody order, with Willis seeking full physical custody and accusing Thomas of "incessant domestic abuse."
Now, Thomas has denied all claims of his alleged abuse and instead pointed the finger back at Willis in a new court filing, saying: "Respondent's coordinated media strategy and its harm to Louetta are a serious concern."
Thomas went on to accuse Willis of using their daughter to make money with commercials and said that in February, he sent Willis "a written objection to Louetta's appearance in paid commercial advertising, noting a specific ad which contained adult **** ual humor that was not appropriate context for a two-year-old."
After Thomas and Willis, the daughter of actors Bruce Willis and Demi Moore, broke up following the birth of their only daughter in 2023, the custody battle over Louetta began in July 2025 when Thomas requested joint legal and physical custody of the girl along with visitation rights.
Willis, 37, and Moore filed legal documents in Los Angeles last month opposing Thomas' request for a child custody order, with Willis seeking full physical custody and accusing Thomas of "incessant domestic abuse."
Now, Thomas has denied all claims of his alleged abuse and instead pointed the finger back at Willis in a new court filing, saying: "Respondent's coordinated media strategy and its harm to Louetta are a serious concern."
Thomas went on to accuse Willis of using their daughter to make money with commercials and said that in February, he sent Willis "a written objection to Louetta's appearance in paid commercial advertising, noting a specific ad which contained adult **** ual humor that was not appropriate context for a two-year-old."
