5 hours ago
Oprah Winfrey once turned Diana Ross' storm-soaked Central Park concert into an unusually specific measure of success, owning diamond earrings as impressive as the pair flashing beneath the stage lights.
Winfrey, 72, revisited Ross' legendary 1983 performance for Glamour's "Girlhood Firsts" series after being asked about the first time she felt represented in the media.
She remembered Ross continuing to sing through torrential rain while her diamond earrings glittered and her mascara remained intact. Winfrey was so fascinated that she called Ross' production company the following day to ask what the singer had been wearing.
The answer sent Winfrey in pursuit of 10 carats of diamonds. She later discovered that Ross' earrings had actually been five carats, prompting the billionaire media mogul to joke that she "could've quit halfway through."
Winfrey described Ross as both her "inspiration and aspiration" while recalling the free concert on Central Park's Great Lawn. "Because if you all remember, there she is.
#ross #carats
Winfrey, 72, revisited Ross' legendary 1983 performance for Glamour's "Girlhood Firsts" series after being asked about the first time she felt represented in the media.
She remembered Ross continuing to sing through torrential rain while her diamond earrings glittered and her mascara remained intact. Winfrey was so fascinated that she called Ross' production company the following day to ask what the singer had been wearing.
The answer sent Winfrey in pursuit of 10 carats of diamonds. She later discovered that Ross' earrings had actually been five carats, prompting the billionaire media mogul to joke that she "could've quit halfway through."
Winfrey described Ross as both her "inspiration and aspiration" while recalling the free concert on Central Park's Great Lawn. "Because if you all remember, there she is.
#ross #carats
8 hours ago
Oprah Winfrey revealed to Glamour how Diana Ross inspired her to buy her first pair of diamond earrings
In an episode of the outlet's "Girlhood Firsts" series, the former talk show host turned podcaster looked back on Ross' free concert in Central Park, which took place in 1983
Ross performed at the landmark's Great Lawn for nearly half an hour before torrential rain halted the concert
Oprah Winfrey has Diana Ross to thank for one of her most memorable jewelry purchases.
The Emmy-winning talk show host can distinctly remember one of the moments when the "I'm Coming Out" singer took her breath away decades ago, and she reflected on the fond memory in a segment for Glamour's "Girlhood Firsts" series.
#series
In an episode of the outlet's "Girlhood Firsts" series, the former talk show host turned podcaster looked back on Ross' free concert in Central Park, which took place in 1983
Ross performed at the landmark's Great Lawn for nearly half an hour before torrential rain halted the concert
Oprah Winfrey has Diana Ross to thank for one of her most memorable jewelry purchases.
The Emmy-winning talk show host can distinctly remember one of the moments when the "I'm Coming Out" singer took her breath away decades ago, and she reflected on the fond memory in a segment for Glamour's "Girlhood Firsts" series.
#series
1 day ago
WASHINGTON (AP) — An ******* ociation of thousands of FBI agents and other groups are backing a lawsuit filed by three bureau employees who were fired last year for their roles in an investigation into President Donald Trump's efforts to undo the results of the 2020 presidential election.
A legal brief by the FBI Agents ******* ociation is one of five filed by outside parties in the last week in support of the agents, who were terminated as part of a broader personnel purge by FBI Director Kash Patel that has targeted employees who investigated Trump or are perceived as being against the administration's interest.
Taken together, the filings, including from former FBI and Justice Department alumni, underscore a concerted and bipartisan pushback to the waves of terminations that have roiled the FBI in the last year and a half as Patel has sought to remake the bureau in his own image.
The briefs argue that the firings were illegal because the agents were denied due process and punished for perceived political affiliation, and say the terminations contradict decades of expectations that the bureau's "apolitical, professional career corps of agents" can work on sensitive cases without putting their careers at risk.
"The Bureau simply cannot function if individual Special Agents must choose whether to accept a lawful ******* ignment that could later get them fired, or alternatively to reject it and become subject to firing for insubordination. FBI Special Agents have long understood that they are subject to ******* ignment and reassignment at any time based on the needs of the Bureau," the agents ******* ociation, which serves nearly 12,000 members, wrote in its brief.
#employees #year
A legal brief by the FBI Agents ******* ociation is one of five filed by outside parties in the last week in support of the agents, who were terminated as part of a broader personnel purge by FBI Director Kash Patel that has targeted employees who investigated Trump or are perceived as being against the administration's interest.
Taken together, the filings, including from former FBI and Justice Department alumni, underscore a concerted and bipartisan pushback to the waves of terminations that have roiled the FBI in the last year and a half as Patel has sought to remake the bureau in his own image.
The briefs argue that the firings were illegal because the agents were denied due process and punished for perceived political affiliation, and say the terminations contradict decades of expectations that the bureau's "apolitical, professional career corps of agents" can work on sensitive cases without putting their careers at risk.
"The Bureau simply cannot function if individual Special Agents must choose whether to accept a lawful ******* ignment that could later get them fired, or alternatively to reject it and become subject to firing for insubordination. FBI Special Agents have long understood that they are subject to ******* ignment and reassignment at any time based on the needs of the Bureau," the agents ******* ociation, which serves nearly 12,000 members, wrote in its brief.
#employees #year
1 day ago
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Foundations funded and co-founded by Leonardo DiCaprio and Jeff Bezos have launched an initiative committing $200 million to revive 100 of Earth's most threatened species, including endangered lemurs, salamanders, pangolins, pigs and echidnas.
DiCaprio's Re:wild and the Bezos Earth Fund are leading the Phoenix Species Project, the groups announced Tuesday. They call it the largest single fund in history dedicated exclusively to recovering critically endangered species.
DiCaprio has for years been developing the idea of a major concerted effort to help species whose habitats and future existence are threatened by climate change.
In 2021, he and Re:wild co-founder Wes Sechrest, a biologist who serves as the organization's CEO, met with the Amazon-founding mega billionaire Bezos and his wife, former TV news reporter and host Lauren Sánchez Bezos. He serves as chair and she as vice chair of the Bezos Earth Fund.
The meeting led to a series of conversations with local governments, environmental groups and Indigenous people on how best to reverse the decline of their most vulnerable species. Those conversations eventually led to the Phoenix Species Project.
#bezos #project #threatened
DiCaprio's Re:wild and the Bezos Earth Fund are leading the Phoenix Species Project, the groups announced Tuesday. They call it the largest single fund in history dedicated exclusively to recovering critically endangered species.
DiCaprio has for years been developing the idea of a major concerted effort to help species whose habitats and future existence are threatened by climate change.
In 2021, he and Re:wild co-founder Wes Sechrest, a biologist who serves as the organization's CEO, met with the Amazon-founding mega billionaire Bezos and his wife, former TV news reporter and host Lauren Sánchez Bezos. He serves as chair and she as vice chair of the Bezos Earth Fund.
The meeting led to a series of conversations with local governments, environmental groups and Indigenous people on how best to reverse the decline of their most vulnerable species. Those conversations eventually led to the Phoenix Species Project.
#bezos #project #threatened
2 days ago
Ariana Grande acknowledged her decision to step back from the public eye onstage in Chicago Monday night, telling fans her choice, which her representatives previously credited to "endless, ongoing public scrutiny," was not "reactive or impulsive" and that "boundaries" need to be set.
Ariana Grande is set to perform three shows in Chicago this week. (Photo by JC Olivera/WWD via Getty Images)
Grande made a brief speech during her Chicago concert, her first appearance since she announced over the weekend she would take a break once her tour wraps up, acknowledging the public reaction to her announcement was "a little blown out of proportion."
Grande said she "quietly" made a plan to take a break "a long time ago," adding she heard her fans were "worried that negativity was ruining things for me," a possible reference to a reignited internet debate over Grande's health and appearance.
The singer said no matter "what noises exist out there, nothing will ever be able to distort my reality or be more real to me or elaborate to me" than her relationship to her fans.
#appearance
Ariana Grande is set to perform three shows in Chicago this week. (Photo by JC Olivera/WWD via Getty Images)
Grande made a brief speech during her Chicago concert, her first appearance since she announced over the weekend she would take a break once her tour wraps up, acknowledging the public reaction to her announcement was "a little blown out of proportion."
Grande said she "quietly" made a plan to take a break "a long time ago," adding she heard her fans were "worried that negativity was ruining things for me," a possible reference to a reignited internet debate over Grande's health and appearance.
The singer said no matter "what noises exist out there, nothing will ever be able to distort my reality or be more real to me or elaborate to me" than her relationship to her fans.
#appearance
2 days ago
In 2007, actor and comedian Robin Williams traveled to Kuwait for an appearance at Camp Arifjan.
Williams was doing his best to entertain the troops when they suddenly stopped paying attention to the stage. They immediately shifted their focus behind them to render honors as the American flag was lowered. Williams wasn't so much offended as mildly perplexed. At first, he didn't understand what was going on.
Related: Bob Hope entertained the troops from WWII to Desert Storm
Once the service members explained it to Williams, he brought it back to why he traveled 8,000 miles from home.
"Sort of reminds you why we're here, doesn't it?" Williams replied, according to a 2014 Defense Department article.
Here are seven celebrities who were committed to showing their appreciation for the United States military.
Bob Hope (middle) and his USO troupe visit a hospital ward in the South Pacific in 1944. (Library of Congress)
We start with the OG of military entertainers. Hope performed for troops domestically and overseas for five decades, beginning with a performance at March Field in California in 1941. Hope, whose "Road to…" films with Bing Crosby became popular with moviegoers, never tired of traveling to see troops.
His 57 tours with the United Service Organizations conveyed his appreciation to his adopted country. Born in London in 1903, Hope moved to America at an early age. He became a U.S. citizen when he was 17 years old.
"He brought such enthusiasm, brought your life back to you," Navy Seabee Ron Ronning said of Hope's last USO show during the Vietnam War in late 1972. "You felt like you were renewed."
Hope died on July 27, 2003, at the age of 100.
Country singer/songwriter Toby Keith salutes more than 1,000 service members who came to see his concert at Bagram Air Field, Afghanistan, April 27, 2009. (U.S. Army/Capt. Michael Greenberger)
Lee Greenwood has "God Bless the USA," perhaps the quintessential patriotic song. Few singers, though, compiled a music catalog that honored the military quite like Keith.
The "American Soldier," "Courtesy of the Red, White, and Blue," and "Call a Marine" singer participated in 18 USO tours. By one estimate, he performed in front of 250,000-plus troops in 17 countries. When mortar fire interrupted a set in Afghanistan, Keith left the stage. He and troops sprinted about a hundred yards to a concrete bunker. There, he signed autographs until he could return to doing what he did best.
"I've met so many great, brave service men and women over the years and had so many wonderful experiences, that I can barely remember them all," Keith said in 2012. "… I won't ever stop doing my part to extend my thanks."
Keith died in 2024 at the age of 62.
#williams
Williams was doing his best to entertain the troops when they suddenly stopped paying attention to the stage. They immediately shifted their focus behind them to render honors as the American flag was lowered. Williams wasn't so much offended as mildly perplexed. At first, he didn't understand what was going on.
Related: Bob Hope entertained the troops from WWII to Desert Storm
Once the service members explained it to Williams, he brought it back to why he traveled 8,000 miles from home.
"Sort of reminds you why we're here, doesn't it?" Williams replied, according to a 2014 Defense Department article.
Here are seven celebrities who were committed to showing their appreciation for the United States military.
Bob Hope (middle) and his USO troupe visit a hospital ward in the South Pacific in 1944. (Library of Congress)
We start with the OG of military entertainers. Hope performed for troops domestically and overseas for five decades, beginning with a performance at March Field in California in 1941. Hope, whose "Road to…" films with Bing Crosby became popular with moviegoers, never tired of traveling to see troops.
His 57 tours with the United Service Organizations conveyed his appreciation to his adopted country. Born in London in 1903, Hope moved to America at an early age. He became a U.S. citizen when he was 17 years old.
"He brought such enthusiasm, brought your life back to you," Navy Seabee Ron Ronning said of Hope's last USO show during the Vietnam War in late 1972. "You felt like you were renewed."
Hope died on July 27, 2003, at the age of 100.
Country singer/songwriter Toby Keith salutes more than 1,000 service members who came to see his concert at Bagram Air Field, Afghanistan, April 27, 2009. (U.S. Army/Capt. Michael Greenberger)
Lee Greenwood has "God Bless the USA," perhaps the quintessential patriotic song. Few singers, though, compiled a music catalog that honored the military quite like Keith.
The "American Soldier," "Courtesy of the Red, White, and Blue," and "Call a Marine" singer participated in 18 USO tours. By one estimate, he performed in front of 250,000-plus troops in 17 countries. When mortar fire interrupted a set in Afghanistan, Keith left the stage. He and troops sprinted about a hundred yards to a concrete bunker. There, he signed autographs until he could return to doing what he did best.
"I've met so many great, brave service men and women over the years and had so many wonderful experiences, that I can barely remember them all," Keith said in 2012. "… I won't ever stop doing my part to extend my thanks."
Keith died in 2024 at the age of 62.
#williams
2 days ago
Pop star Ariana Grande is speaking out following public scrutiny about her appearance and her decision to step away from the public eye after her current tour wraps up.
Grande shared a message to audience members at her Chicago concert at the United Center Monday night, which fans then shared on social media. Over the weekend, Grande said she would step back from appearances and her starring role in the West End show "Sunday in the Park with George" after "The Eternal Sunshine Tour."
"The announcement that was made yesterday was not a reactive or impulsive thing," Grande said. "It is something that I had decided. It's a plan that I had quietly made a long time ago and it was a decision that was made from a thoughtful and empowered place."
Monica Schipper/Getty Images - Ariana Grande attends the 31st Annual Critics Choice Awards at Barker Hangar on January 04, 2026 in Santa Monica, California.
A representative for Grande confirmed to ABC News that the singer "looks forward to finishing the tour and ending it on a high note, both healthily and happily, and then taking a much-deserved break from public-facing work and appearances, which has led to endless, ongoing public scrutiny."
#public #tour #ariana
Grande shared a message to audience members at her Chicago concert at the United Center Monday night, which fans then shared on social media. Over the weekend, Grande said she would step back from appearances and her starring role in the West End show "Sunday in the Park with George" after "The Eternal Sunshine Tour."
"The announcement that was made yesterday was not a reactive or impulsive thing," Grande said. "It is something that I had decided. It's a plan that I had quietly made a long time ago and it was a decision that was made from a thoughtful and empowered place."
Monica Schipper/Getty Images - Ariana Grande attends the 31st Annual Critics Choice Awards at Barker Hangar on January 04, 2026 in Santa Monica, California.
A representative for Grande confirmed to ABC News that the singer "looks forward to finishing the tour and ending it on a high note, both healthily and happily, and then taking a much-deserved break from public-facing work and appearances, which has led to endless, ongoing public scrutiny."
#public #tour #ariana
2 days ago
AT&T Stadium is one of the best entertainment venues in the world. While its main function is to be the home field for the NFL's Dallas Cowboys, the building also hosts other sports events, music concerts, and shows. Most recently, the stadium hosted the 2026 FIFA World Cup for a series of matches, during which the large windows were tinted and curtains were used to stop the sun from shining through and affecting the players performances.
That's a lot of care to put into games that don't mean as much to owner Jerry Jones as the team he owns does. For Cowboys games, there has never been any tint or use of curtains to ensure there's no effect on the game. However, could Jones be changing his tune on the aesthetic provided by the sun coming through the giant windows?
Hold your breath Cowboys fans, Jones might be willing to make the change.
In a recent interview with FOX 4's Mike Doocy, the owner said "he's thinking about it" when it comes to putting up the curtains to stop the sun from coming through during Cowboys games. He also mentioned he likes the effects of the tint.
However, as Jones was also quick to point out, thinking about it and doing it are two different things.
#games #however #stadium #stop
That's a lot of care to put into games that don't mean as much to owner Jerry Jones as the team he owns does. For Cowboys games, there has never been any tint or use of curtains to ensure there's no effect on the game. However, could Jones be changing his tune on the aesthetic provided by the sun coming through the giant windows?
Hold your breath Cowboys fans, Jones might be willing to make the change.
In a recent interview with FOX 4's Mike Doocy, the owner said "he's thinking about it" when it comes to putting up the curtains to stop the sun from coming through during Cowboys games. He also mentioned he likes the effects of the tint.
However, as Jones was also quick to point out, thinking about it and doing it are two different things.
#games #however #stadium #stop
3 days ago
Bianca Censori gave fans a rare glimpse of her softer side during Kanye West's concert in Madrid, Spain, this week—and it wasn't her outfit that had everyone talking.
After Kanye's performance at Riyadh Air Metropolitano, the Australian native was spotted leaving an afterparty wearing a daring black satin mini dress featuring a plunging neckline, an open back, and a detachable skirt wrapped around the hips of a bodysuit. She completed the look with her copper hair styled in loose waves and debuted subtle curtain bangs parted down the middle.
instagram.com/zendonesian
The father of four, meanwhile, opted for an all-black leather ensemble with zippered detailing and oversized flap pockets.
A viral Reddit post from the event showed Bianca smiling as she held a young boy while Kanye performed.
#reddit
After Kanye's performance at Riyadh Air Metropolitano, the Australian native was spotted leaving an afterparty wearing a daring black satin mini dress featuring a plunging neckline, an open back, and a detachable skirt wrapped around the hips of a bodysuit. She completed the look with her copper hair styled in loose waves and debuted subtle curtain bangs parted down the middle.
instagram.com/zendonesian
The father of four, meanwhile, opted for an all-black leather ensemble with zippered detailing and oversized flap pockets.
A viral Reddit post from the event showed Bianca smiling as she held a young boy while Kanye performed.
5 days ago
Nicole Kidman always makes sure to prioritize quality time with her daughters
During an interview with Extra, the Lioness actress, 59, and her costar Zoe Saldaña were chatting about the solidarity they shared with their fellow castmates
Saldaña explained that during filming the cast developed a bond, adding that Kidman would have come if she didn't already fly home to be with her daughters
Nicole Kidman always makes sure to prioritize quality time with her daughters.
During an interview with Extra, the Lioness actress, 59, and her costar Zoe Saldaña were chatting about the solidarity they shared with their fellow castmates. Saldaña, 48, explained that during filming the cast developed a bond as they trained, went to concerts, rode horses and spent Thanksgiving together, adding that Kidman would have come too if she hadn't flown home to be with her daughters.
#extra #lioness #sure
During an interview with Extra, the Lioness actress, 59, and her costar Zoe Saldaña were chatting about the solidarity they shared with their fellow castmates
Saldaña explained that during filming the cast developed a bond, adding that Kidman would have come if she didn't already fly home to be with her daughters
Nicole Kidman always makes sure to prioritize quality time with her daughters.
During an interview with Extra, the Lioness actress, 59, and her costar Zoe Saldaña were chatting about the solidarity they shared with their fellow castmates. Saldaña, 48, explained that during filming the cast developed a bond as they trained, went to concerts, rode horses and spent Thanksgiving together, adding that Kidman would have come too if she hadn't flown home to be with her daughters.
#extra #lioness #sure
7 days ago
O'Keeffe Stevens Advisory, an investment advisory firm, released its second-quarter 2026 investor letter. A copy of the letter can be downloaded here. During Q2 2026, the market experienced notable dispersion between perceived AI losers and winners. The firm has made investments early in AI infrastructure companies, which yielded gains during market repricing. The second quarter experienced strong equity rallies, with the S&P 500 gaining 15.2% and the Nasdaq 21.4%, marking the best quarter since Q2 2020. While the software sector faced challenges, with the iShares Software ETF dropping ~27% before a rally, reflecting high volatility. This volatility is seen as an opportunity, despite the potential for 'dead money' in underperforming stocks. The firm remains cautious, focuses on owning durable businesses at reasonable prices, holding cash, and hedging risks to navigate unpredictability. In addition, please check the Strategy's top five holdings to know its best picks in 2026.
In its Q2 2026 investor letter, O'Keeffe Stevens Advisory highlighted Sphere Entertainment Co. (NYSE:SPHR). Sphere Entertainment Co. (NYSE:SPHR) is a US-based live entertainment and media company. On July 27, 2026, Sphere Entertainment Co. (NYSE:SPHR) closed at $139.95 per share, reflecting a market capitalization of $5.01 billion. Sphere Entertainment Co. (NYSE:SPHR) posted a one-month return of -19.12%, while its shares gained 227.98% over the past 52 weeks.
O'Keeffe Stevens Advisory stated the following regarding Sphere Entertainment Co. (NYSE:SPHR) in its Q2 2026 investor update:
"During the quarter, Sphere Entertainment Co. (NYSE:SPHR) continued its strong performance as the market realizes the strong underlying unit economics, in the face of weaker Las Vegas Strip attendance. Continued success in Vegas makes selling future Spheres easier. Sphere Abu Dhabi remains on track, which, given the ongoing war, was a concern. Finally, Sphere announced a new immersive experience, "Rocky Horror Picture," which should add incremental, high-margin shows to the slate, increasing utilization. While the Sphere story has largely played out (at least episode 1), we are inclined to let an N=1 ***** et the leeway to become a large position even though the valuation is much diXerent today. Great ***** ets and management teams oVen have longer right tails than one may initially underwrite. While most believe Vegas is forever in decline, visitation trends were positive y/y in May and represented the 3rd month of the year with positive y/y growth. Visitation and comps are substantially easier, concerts continue to perform well, and new Qlms should drive visitation and revisitation at strong rates, even with The Wizard of Oz coming up to its Qrst anniversary. While the Sphere show slate is nearing the optimal/maximum number of shows per year, the exosphere is an incremental high-margin opportunity that will become an important revenue driver."
#NYSE #sphr #stevens
In its Q2 2026 investor letter, O'Keeffe Stevens Advisory highlighted Sphere Entertainment Co. (NYSE:SPHR). Sphere Entertainment Co. (NYSE:SPHR) is a US-based live entertainment and media company. On July 27, 2026, Sphere Entertainment Co. (NYSE:SPHR) closed at $139.95 per share, reflecting a market capitalization of $5.01 billion. Sphere Entertainment Co. (NYSE:SPHR) posted a one-month return of -19.12%, while its shares gained 227.98% over the past 52 weeks.
O'Keeffe Stevens Advisory stated the following regarding Sphere Entertainment Co. (NYSE:SPHR) in its Q2 2026 investor update:
"During the quarter, Sphere Entertainment Co. (NYSE:SPHR) continued its strong performance as the market realizes the strong underlying unit economics, in the face of weaker Las Vegas Strip attendance. Continued success in Vegas makes selling future Spheres easier. Sphere Abu Dhabi remains on track, which, given the ongoing war, was a concern. Finally, Sphere announced a new immersive experience, "Rocky Horror Picture," which should add incremental, high-margin shows to the slate, increasing utilization. While the Sphere story has largely played out (at least episode 1), we are inclined to let an N=1 ***** et the leeway to become a large position even though the valuation is much diXerent today. Great ***** ets and management teams oVen have longer right tails than one may initially underwrite. While most believe Vegas is forever in decline, visitation trends were positive y/y in May and represented the 3rd month of the year with positive y/y growth. Visitation and comps are substantially easier, concerts continue to perform well, and new Qlms should drive visitation and revisitation at strong rates, even with The Wizard of Oz coming up to its Qrst anniversary. While the Sphere show slate is nearing the optimal/maximum number of shows per year, the exosphere is an incremental high-margin opportunity that will become an important revenue driver."
#NYSE #sphr #stevens
7 days ago
In the countryside west of the Welsh capital, farmers have a WhatsApp group to warn of suspicious vehicles and some have barricaded the entrances to their fields with concrete blocks and fallen trees.
"They're watching us - which is probably the most disconcerting part about it," said Chris Edwards.
"We harvest the field and within hours, they're there."
He's seen gates "smashed off their hinges" and crops destroyed by trespassers illegally hunting hares with dogs. Neighbours have faced threats, "verbal and physical", when they've tried to intervene.
South Wales Police confirmed the Vale of Glamorgan was seeing an increase in hare coursing, and said the force was taking action.
#edwards #neighbours #wales #vale
"They're watching us - which is probably the most disconcerting part about it," said Chris Edwards.
"We harvest the field and within hours, they're there."
He's seen gates "smashed off their hinges" and crops destroyed by trespassers illegally hunting hares with dogs. Neighbours have faced threats, "verbal and physical", when they've tried to intervene.
South Wales Police confirmed the Vale of Glamorgan was seeing an increase in hare coursing, and said the force was taking action.
#edwards #neighbours #wales #vale
8 days ago
Several celebrities have helped fans create unforgettable marriage proposals during live concerts
Stars, including Drew Barrymore and Zach Braff, have made video cameos for private proposals
Performers have expressed their gratitude for being invited to participate in the special moment
A marriage proposal often includes personal touches that reflect a couple's relationship — and for some fans, that means enlisting the help of a favorite celebrity.
Several pairs have opted for public proposals. Stars like Taylor Swift and Céline Dion have unexpectedly become witnesses to the special moment, while others, including Hugh Jackman and Tom Hanks, have played an active role in helping fans pop the question.
#several #drew
Stars, including Drew Barrymore and Zach Braff, have made video cameos for private proposals
Performers have expressed their gratitude for being invited to participate in the special moment
A marriage proposal often includes personal touches that reflect a couple's relationship — and for some fans, that means enlisting the help of a favorite celebrity.
Several pairs have opted for public proposals. Stars like Taylor Swift and Céline Dion have unexpectedly become witnesses to the special moment, while others, including Hugh Jackman and Tom Hanks, have played an active role in helping fans pop the question.
#several #drew
9 days ago
A message of gratitude earned Oprah Winfrey a special gift from Queen Bey.
She told the story on the Are You Okay? web series, explaining how it all happened.
"I went to the Beyoncé Renaissance concert," Winfrey said in a clip posted to social media Monday. "I was so blown away. I wrote her a fan letter. She obviously liked the fan letter because she then sent me one of the hats from Renaissance. Beyoncé sent me a hat!"
She continued, breaking into a dance, "I sent her a letter and she sent me a hat! I sent her a letter and she sent me a hat!"
Oprah previously praised Beyoncé's Renaissance show on Instagram, writing alongside a clip of Bey onstage, "I have never in my life experienced something as transcendent as beyonce's Renaissance Tour."
#okay
She told the story on the Are You Okay? web series, explaining how it all happened.
"I went to the Beyoncé Renaissance concert," Winfrey said in a clip posted to social media Monday. "I was so blown away. I wrote her a fan letter. She obviously liked the fan letter because she then sent me one of the hats from Renaissance. Beyoncé sent me a hat!"
She continued, breaking into a dance, "I sent her a letter and she sent me a hat! I sent her a letter and she sent me a hat!"
Oprah previously praised Beyoncé's Renaissance show on Instagram, writing alongside a clip of Bey onstage, "I have never in my life experienced something as transcendent as beyonce's Renaissance Tour."
#okay
9 days ago
Ryan Garcia used his Zuffa Boxing connections to appear on WWE Monday Night Raw, aligning himself with heel faction, The Judgement Day.
Garcia, who is set to face Conor Benn on September 12th, made his presence known in a ring again – but not the ring many fans were expecting.
The controversial WBC Welterweight Champion appeared alongside WWE stars Dominik Mysterio and JD McDonagh as they attacked Danhausen and Joe Hendry.
Photo by Craig Ambrosio/WWE via Getty Images
The initial segment was a concert where Joe Hendry, whose signature trait is his use of his guitar and playing songs that mock his opponents, and Danhausen.
#boxing #Monday
Garcia, who is set to face Conor Benn on September 12th, made his presence known in a ring again – but not the ring many fans were expecting.
The controversial WBC Welterweight Champion appeared alongside WWE stars Dominik Mysterio and JD McDonagh as they attacked Danhausen and Joe Hendry.
Photo by Craig Ambrosio/WWE via Getty Images
The initial segment was a concert where Joe Hendry, whose signature trait is his use of his guitar and playing songs that mock his opponents, and Danhausen.
#boxing #Monday
12 days ago
In a week where an AI model went rogue and broke out of a secure test environment—and in a year where seemingly all we're hearing is how AI can displace large swaths of the workforce—it may come as a surprise when one of the tech's most prominent voices is pushing an optimistic view of the tech, joining the many in his field who have recently walked back comments of how it could negatively impact workers.
"As we enter this next wave with AI, we continue to believe the future is for everyone," Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg wrote as the caption to a short video on Thursday, harkening back to the company's early years of tech optimism.
"Call us optimists, call us dreamers, call us whatever the ****** you want, but we're betting on people, and we like those odds," the voiceover in the video said.
The video featured montages of people using Instagram, Whatsapp, FaceBook and Meta's Ray-Ban glasses to film touching moments and connect with loved ones, with the backdrop of concerts and snowboarding and laughing children set to calm music as the voiceover framed Meta's AI efforts as doubling down on betting on people, just like the company did 22 years ago with FaceBook.
Marketing experts told Fortune that the Meta video's reliance on nostalgic imagery seemed like a way to redirect attention from AI concerns and to buffer against growing AI fears.
#like #we 're #back #years
"As we enter this next wave with AI, we continue to believe the future is for everyone," Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg wrote as the caption to a short video on Thursday, harkening back to the company's early years of tech optimism.
"Call us optimists, call us dreamers, call us whatever the ****** you want, but we're betting on people, and we like those odds," the voiceover in the video said.
The video featured montages of people using Instagram, Whatsapp, FaceBook and Meta's Ray-Ban glasses to film touching moments and connect with loved ones, with the backdrop of concerts and snowboarding and laughing children set to calm music as the voiceover framed Meta's AI efforts as doubling down on betting on people, just like the company did 22 years ago with FaceBook.
Marketing experts told Fortune that the Meta video's reliance on nostalgic imagery seemed like a way to redirect attention from AI concerns and to buffer against growing AI fears.
#like #we 're #back #years
13 days ago
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - JULY 17: Flavor Flav (C), Rhiannon Rae Ellis (2R) and Team USA members Alexandra Carpenter (L) and Hilary Knight (R) attend a private Team USA Athletes Only Dinner featuring top celebrity female chefs and hosted by Flavor Flav during Flavor Flav's SHE Weekend at the new Westoria Restaurant inside The Cosmopolitan on July 17, 2026 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic for ABA)
For years, the conversation surrounding women’s sports has centered on one word: equality. Flavor Flav is demonstrating another word leaders should consider: investment.
For many fans, Flavor Flav will forever be remembered as Public Enemy's energetic hype man, a 2013 Rock N Roll Hall of Fame inductee, the larger-than-life personality behind the iconic clock necklace, or the star of reality television's Flavor of Love.
But this past weekend, the Public Enemy co-founder brought more than one hundred Gold, Silver, and Bronze medalists from Team USA’s Women Olympic and Paralympic programs to Las Vegas for SHE Weekend—short for Sports, Hospitality and Entertainment— for a four-day celebration designed to give America’s female athletes something many had rarely experienced at this scale: a victory celebration built specifically around them. I went to experience it for myself, and it was incredible.
The weekend included a parade on the Las Vegas Strip, front-row seats to a private concert from Public Enemy, receiving keys to the Las Vegas Strip, and attendance to the Backstreet Boys’ Sphere residency, where Team USA Medal winners received an onstage acknowledgment. This was in addition to a slate of curated dinners and programming talks from executives across the spectrum.
#public
For years, the conversation surrounding women’s sports has centered on one word: equality. Flavor Flav is demonstrating another word leaders should consider: investment.
For many fans, Flavor Flav will forever be remembered as Public Enemy's energetic hype man, a 2013 Rock N Roll Hall of Fame inductee, the larger-than-life personality behind the iconic clock necklace, or the star of reality television's Flavor of Love.
But this past weekend, the Public Enemy co-founder brought more than one hundred Gold, Silver, and Bronze medalists from Team USA’s Women Olympic and Paralympic programs to Las Vegas for SHE Weekend—short for Sports, Hospitality and Entertainment— for a four-day celebration designed to give America’s female athletes something many had rarely experienced at this scale: a victory celebration built specifically around them. I went to experience it for myself, and it was incredible.
The weekend included a parade on the Las Vegas Strip, front-row seats to a private concert from Public Enemy, receiving keys to the Las Vegas Strip, and attendance to the Backstreet Boys’ Sphere residency, where Team USA Medal winners received an onstage acknowledgment. This was in addition to a slate of curated dinners and programming talks from executives across the spectrum.
#public
13 days ago
July 22 (Reuters) - Coinbase has settled a Freedom of Information Act lawsuit against the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission over records it sought from the agency, the cryptocurrency exchange's chief legal officer, Paul Grewal, said in a Wall Street Journal op-ed on Wednesday.
Grewal said the agency, which polices corporate record-keeping, had lost text messages between former Chair Gary Gensler and other officials after a process the SEC said "automatically wiped" certain data.
As part of the settlement, the SEC will pay $150,000 and fix its record-retention policies, he wrote.
SEC did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.
Coinbase sued the SEC and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. in 2024, seeking documents it said would show a concerted effort by U.S. regulators to stamp out crypto companies.
#grewal #july #securities
Grewal said the agency, which polices corporate record-keeping, had lost text messages between former Chair Gary Gensler and other officials after a process the SEC said "automatically wiped" certain data.
As part of the settlement, the SEC will pay $150,000 and fix its record-retention policies, he wrote.
SEC did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.
Coinbase sued the SEC and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. in 2024, seeking documents it said would show a concerted effort by U.S. regulators to stamp out crypto companies.
#grewal #july #securities
14 days ago
Plymouth Township — Things are looking increasingly grim for the LIV Golf tournament in Metro Detroit next month.
LIV Golf's season-ending team championship officially remains on the schedule for Aug. 27-30, but amid the league's major funding crisis, that might not remain in the case for long.
There has been no infrastructure buildout at The Cardinal at Saint John's Resort as of Wednesday night, with a Detroit News reporter spotting no hospitality suites on the 18th hole, no stage for the post-round concerts and championship celebration, no player walking bridge across the signature pond, no visible signage — no nothing to suggest a significant golf tournament will be played here five weeks from Thursday.
Buildout for golf tournaments of this magnitude typically takes multiple months.
Meanwhile, earlier Wednesday, a LIV Golf player, two-time major champion Martin Kaymer, cast serious doubt on the likelihood that the championship in Michigan will take place.
#championship #tournament #township
LIV Golf's season-ending team championship officially remains on the schedule for Aug. 27-30, but amid the league's major funding crisis, that might not remain in the case for long.
There has been no infrastructure buildout at The Cardinal at Saint John's Resort as of Wednesday night, with a Detroit News reporter spotting no hospitality suites on the 18th hole, no stage for the post-round concerts and championship celebration, no player walking bridge across the signature pond, no visible signage — no nothing to suggest a significant golf tournament will be played here five weeks from Thursday.
Buildout for golf tournaments of this magnitude typically takes multiple months.
Meanwhile, earlier Wednesday, a LIV Golf player, two-time major champion Martin Kaymer, cast serious doubt on the likelihood that the championship in Michigan will take place.
#championship #tournament #township
14 days ago
Los Angeles mayoral hopeful and former reality TV star Spencer Pratt released a lengthy, artificial-intelligence-assisted screed taking down the lawsuit filed by 12 state attorneys general against Paramount over its merger with Warner Bros. Discovery. In a TikTok video, he shouts that Hollywood is kaput if the suit succeeds.
On July 20, a coalition of 12 states led by California filed a suit against Paramount to block its $110 billion acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery. The coalition includes New York and Colorado, among others. A federal judge issued a temporary restraining order pausing the merger earlier this week.
More from The Hollywood Reporter
Paramount-Warner Bros. Deal Blessed by European Union Regulators
After German Broadcaster Yanks "Antifascist" Song, Musicians Give Guerrilla YouTube Concert
#warner
On July 20, a coalition of 12 states led by California filed a suit against Paramount to block its $110 billion acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery. The coalition includes New York and Colorado, among others. A federal judge issued a temporary restraining order pausing the merger earlier this week.
More from The Hollywood Reporter
Paramount-Warner Bros. Deal Blessed by European Union Regulators
After German Broadcaster Yanks "Antifascist" Song, Musicians Give Guerrilla YouTube Concert
#warner
14 days ago
Katie Holmes and Jason Bard Yarmosky enjoyed a casual date night in New York City.
They attended the Soho Sessions concert series on July 21.
She wore a Y2K-coded pink spaghetti-strap top paired with black leather pants, black pointed-toe heels, and a black purse.
Katie Holmes and her new boyfriend, Jason Bard Yarmosky, enjoyed a casual date night in New York City on July 21.
The 47-year-old actress stepped out with the NYC-based artist for the Soho Sessions concert series. In photos obtained by People, she wore a Y2K-coded pink spaghetti-strap top paired with black leather pants, black pointed-toe heels, and a black purse. She also appeared to have a black jacket tied around her waist.
#katie #holmes
They attended the Soho Sessions concert series on July 21.
She wore a Y2K-coded pink spaghetti-strap top paired with black leather pants, black pointed-toe heels, and a black purse.
Katie Holmes and her new boyfriend, Jason Bard Yarmosky, enjoyed a casual date night in New York City on July 21.
The 47-year-old actress stepped out with the NYC-based artist for the Soho Sessions concert series. In photos obtained by People, she wore a Y2K-coded pink spaghetti-strap top paired with black leather pants, black pointed-toe heels, and a black purse. She also appeared to have a black jacket tied around her waist.
#katie #holmes
14 days ago
Rosie O'Donnell has revealed why she and Madonna are 'like sisters.'
The comedian has recalled her first meeting with the Queen of Pop, admitting they became friends after bonding about an unusual thing in common.
"I had just seen Truth or Dare (Madonna's 1991 documentary film), and I had never met another woman whose mother died and they're named after their mother and then when you go to the gravesite, you see your name on the tombstone," the 64-year-old told People magazine.
"The first thing I said was, 'My mom died when I was young and I was named after her too,' and it was like we became sisters at that moment," Rosie said.
The two women remain friends to this day, with O'Donnell telling that they enjoy sharing details about their families with each other. "We talk about the kids," she said. "We just hang out when she's in New York."
She added, "I have to say Madonna has done one ****** of a job raising those children. She ran a very tight ship and I had a very not tight ship. Her kids, Lola and Rocco, would come over for a playdate when they were little and as soon as she left, I would give them an ice pop and turn on the cartoons. They didn't get to watch TV. But she's an amazing mother and those kids are concert pianists and artists and singers. She is pretty phenomenal. And a motherless daughter, even younger than I was when her mother died."
#kids #o 'donnell #sisters
The comedian has recalled her first meeting with the Queen of Pop, admitting they became friends after bonding about an unusual thing in common.
"I had just seen Truth or Dare (Madonna's 1991 documentary film), and I had never met another woman whose mother died and they're named after their mother and then when you go to the gravesite, you see your name on the tombstone," the 64-year-old told People magazine.
"The first thing I said was, 'My mom died when I was young and I was named after her too,' and it was like we became sisters at that moment," Rosie said.
The two women remain friends to this day, with O'Donnell telling that they enjoy sharing details about their families with each other. "We talk about the kids," she said. "We just hang out when she's in New York."
She added, "I have to say Madonna has done one ****** of a job raising those children. She ran a very tight ship and I had a very not tight ship. Her kids, Lola and Rocco, would come over for a playdate when they were little and as soon as she left, I would give them an ice pop and turn on the cartoons. They didn't get to watch TV. But she's an amazing mother and those kids are concert pianists and artists and singers. She is pretty phenomenal. And a motherless daughter, even younger than I was when her mother died."
#kids #o 'donnell #sisters
14 days ago
Beverly Hills, California-based Live Nation Entertainment, Inc. (LYV) is the world's largest live entertainment company, connecting artists with fans through concert promotion, venue operations, ticketing, and sponsorships. Valued at $42.5 billion by market cap, the company operates an integrated ecosystem that spans nearly every stage of the live event value chain.
The leading live entertainment company is expected to announce its fiscal 2026 second-quarter earnings on Thursday, Aug. 6, after the market closes. Ahead of the event, ***** ysts expect LYV to report a profit of $0.59 per share on a diluted basis, up 43.9% from a profit of $0.41 per share in the year-ago quarter. The company missed the consensus estimates in three of the last four quarters while beating the forecast on one other occasion.
Huge, Unusual Intel Options Volume Today Ahead of Earnings This Week
Intel Stock Is Down, But Put Premiums are High - Put Short Sellers Love the High Yields
Billionaire Mark Cuban Says If CEOs Get 10% of Pay in Stock, Janitors Deserve the Same Percentage — 'That Will Change the Game'
#company #Intel #Event
The leading live entertainment company is expected to announce its fiscal 2026 second-quarter earnings on Thursday, Aug. 6, after the market closes. Ahead of the event, ***** ysts expect LYV to report a profit of $0.59 per share on a diluted basis, up 43.9% from a profit of $0.41 per share in the year-ago quarter. The company missed the consensus estimates in three of the last four quarters while beating the forecast on one other occasion.
Huge, Unusual Intel Options Volume Today Ahead of Earnings This Week
Intel Stock Is Down, But Put Premiums are High - Put Short Sellers Love the High Yields
Billionaire Mark Cuban Says If CEOs Get 10% of Pay in Stock, Janitors Deserve the Same Percentage — 'That Will Change the Game'
#company #Intel #Event
15 days ago
We've spent an entire offseason asking questions about the Tennessee **** ans. Now's the time to start figuring out the answers.
The team will reconvene for training camp in the last week of July, kicking off the sprint toward its 2026 NFL season opener against the New York Jets on Sept. 13. Change is here, with new coach Robert Saleh presiding over a roster that figures to start at least nine newcomers and another three or four second-year players.
Back-to-back 3-14 seasons have a way of grating on returning players, the front office and fans alike, so all of this change is part of the concerted effort to remold the franchise in a new image reflective of Saleh's and general manager Mike Borgonzi's vision.
That makes it a little bit tough to grade preseason progress. Most players are newcomers, and most returning players are being asked to fill new roles. So how will anyone be able to recognize if the team is really growing, separate from run-of-the-mill improvements that come from developing along the new system's learning curve?
Here's The Tennessean's handy guide for four ways to figure out if the **** ans are getting better throughout training camp.
#Titans #back #team
The team will reconvene for training camp in the last week of July, kicking off the sprint toward its 2026 NFL season opener against the New York Jets on Sept. 13. Change is here, with new coach Robert Saleh presiding over a roster that figures to start at least nine newcomers and another three or four second-year players.
Back-to-back 3-14 seasons have a way of grating on returning players, the front office and fans alike, so all of this change is part of the concerted effort to remold the franchise in a new image reflective of Saleh's and general manager Mike Borgonzi's vision.
That makes it a little bit tough to grade preseason progress. Most players are newcomers, and most returning players are being asked to fill new roles. So how will anyone be able to recognize if the team is really growing, separate from run-of-the-mill improvements that come from developing along the new system's learning curve?
Here's The Tennessean's handy guide for four ways to figure out if the **** ans are getting better throughout training camp.
#Titans #back #team
15 days ago
We've spent an entire offseason asking questions about the Tennessee ******* ans. Now's the time to start figuring out the answers.
The team will reconvene for training camp in the last week of July, kicking off the sprint toward its 2026 NFL season opener against the New York Jets on Sept. 13. Change is here, with new coach Robert Saleh presiding over a roster that figures to start at least nine newcomers and another three or four second-year players.
Back-to-back 3-14 seasons have a way of grating on returning players, the front office and fans alike, so all of this change is part of the concerted effort to remold the franchise in a new image reflective of Saleh's and general manager Mike Borgonzi's vision.
That makes it a little bit tough to grade preseason progress. Most players are newcomers, and most returning players are being asked to fill new roles. So how will anyone be able to recognize if the team is really growing, separate from run-of-the-mill improvements that come from developing along the new system's learning curve?
Here's The Tennessean's handy guide for four ways to figure out if the ******* ans are getting better throughout training camp.
#Titans #team #four
The team will reconvene for training camp in the last week of July, kicking off the sprint toward its 2026 NFL season opener against the New York Jets on Sept. 13. Change is here, with new coach Robert Saleh presiding over a roster that figures to start at least nine newcomers and another three or four second-year players.
Back-to-back 3-14 seasons have a way of grating on returning players, the front office and fans alike, so all of this change is part of the concerted effort to remold the franchise in a new image reflective of Saleh's and general manager Mike Borgonzi's vision.
That makes it a little bit tough to grade preseason progress. Most players are newcomers, and most returning players are being asked to fill new roles. So how will anyone be able to recognize if the team is really growing, separate from run-of-the-mill improvements that come from developing along the new system's learning curve?
Here's The Tennessean's handy guide for four ways to figure out if the ******* ans are getting better throughout training camp.
#Titans #team #four
17 days ago
On Saturday, July 18, Chrissy Teigen shared family moments from Finland on Instagram, including a carousel ride and a visit to an aquarium
The family previously visited Norway, where John Legend performed and their kids danced backstage at his concert
"Thank you, Finland, for putting a farm, an aquarium and an amusement park all in one area!!!" Teigen wrote on Instagram
Chrissy Teigen and John Legend have reached another European destination!
On Saturday, July 18, the model and entrepreneur, 40, posted Instagram photos of her husband and their four children visiting Särkänniemi amusement park in Finland as the family continues to support Legend, 47, on tour.
The family previously visited Norway, where John Legend performed and their kids danced backstage at his concert
"Thank you, Finland, for putting a farm, an aquarium and an amusement park all in one area!!!" Teigen wrote on Instagram
Chrissy Teigen and John Legend have reached another European destination!
On Saturday, July 18, the model and entrepreneur, 40, posted Instagram photos of her husband and their four children visiting Särkänniemi amusement park in Finland as the family continues to support Legend, 47, on tour.
17 days ago
Rihanna and A$AP Rocky attended the 2026 FIFA World Cup final at New York New Jersey Stadium on Sunday, July 19
The game saw Spain defeat Argentina 1-0 to win their second World Cup after a star-studded halftime show featuring Shakira, Burna Boy, Justin Bieber, BTS and Madonna
The couple's appearance follows Rihanna's recent surprise performance at Jay-Z's concert in New York City
Rihanna and A$AP Rocky were in the stands to witness Spain beat Argentina in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.
On Sunday, July 19, the "We Found Love" singer, 38, and "Fashion Killa" rapper, 37, were spotted at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., which was renamed the "New York New Jersey Stadium" for the duration of the World Cup.
The game saw Spain defeat Argentina 1-0 to win their second World Cup after a star-studded halftime show featuring Shakira, Burna Boy, Justin Bieber, BTS and Madonna
The couple's appearance follows Rihanna's recent surprise performance at Jay-Z's concert in New York City
Rihanna and A$AP Rocky were in the stands to witness Spain beat Argentina in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.
On Sunday, July 19, the "We Found Love" singer, 38, and "Fashion Killa" rapper, 37, were spotted at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., which was renamed the "New York New Jersey Stadium" for the duration of the World Cup.
19 days ago
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump released a trove of documents during a primetime address to the nation that allies had hyped as a smoking gun that would prove his long-debunked allegations of mass voter fraud.
Speaking from the White House on Thursday night, he described shocking revelations, like Chinese meddling to undermine his failed candidacy in 2020 and a cover-up by the "deep state." He claimed, "Americans were blatantly lied to about the security of our election infrastructure."
But a review by The ******* ociated Press found no such confirmation in the collection of newly declassified reports, investigation files, intelligence ******* ysis and ******* orted correspondence. Many pages are so heavily redacted that their findings are unclear. Others outline vulnerabilities and ******* sments that have been well-documented for years. There's no evidence that China or any other foreign entity manipulated the vote in 2020 or any other year.
"The White House promised a bombshell, and they delivered a dud," said David Becker, executive director of the Center for Election Innovation & Research, who attended a White House briefing on the material ahead of the speech. Despite what appeared to be a concerted effort by administration officials, "there was absolutely nothing here that was news, nothing here that even calls into question past elections and certainly not the 2020 election."
Here's a look at what the documents say.
Speaking from the White House on Thursday night, he described shocking revelations, like Chinese meddling to undermine his failed candidacy in 2020 and a cover-up by the "deep state." He claimed, "Americans were blatantly lied to about the security of our election infrastructure."
But a review by The ******* ociated Press found no such confirmation in the collection of newly declassified reports, investigation files, intelligence ******* ysis and ******* orted correspondence. Many pages are so heavily redacted that their findings are unclear. Others outline vulnerabilities and ******* sments that have been well-documented for years. There's no evidence that China or any other foreign entity manipulated the vote in 2020 or any other year.
"The White House promised a bombshell, and they delivered a dud," said David Becker, executive director of the Center for Election Innovation & Research, who attended a White House briefing on the material ahead of the speech. Despite what appeared to be a concerted effort by administration officials, "there was absolutely nothing here that was news, nothing here that even calls into question past elections and certainly not the 2020 election."
Here's a look at what the documents say.
22 days ago
The American League shutout the National League 4-0 on Tuesday in the 2026 All-Star Game. Here’s some notes I took.
Keeping Score: I decided to watch the All-Star Game this year. Not only that, I decided to score the All-Star Game this year. I recently found my old scorebook and thought it’d be fun, since I’m here recapping this with you anyways. The first game in this scorebook is a Félix Hernández complete game from Opening Day 2011. The last is both halves of a doubleheader between Washington State University and Cal State Northridge in Pullman that I covered for the school paper in 2017. In between there’s the Mariners/Marlins game that was played in Seattle because of a U2 concert in Miami; a game from the Tokyo Dome that I woke up at 2 a.m. for, per my diligent notes; a game started by Blake Beavan that I did not proceed to score after the first inning; the Red Sox first game after the Boston Marathon bombing; a 2013 WBC game; a 2017 WBC game; and a bunch of losing Mariners baseball. I’m not quite sure what the point of scoring games is in 2026, with technology and such. But I’m adding to my corporeal collection of bizarre baseball games that I might not otherwise remember.
Star-Less: The 2026 All-Star Game was relatively starless. No Aaron Judge. No Shohei Ohtani. Yes Ernie Clement. I won’t lie and say that this adds to my interest in the All-Star Game, as I watch pretty much every year, albeit more passively. But it is cool that we’ll get to see a lot more of the B+ quality of player that I think makes the league so interesting these days. My takeaways from the starting lineups are that I think it’s cool CJ Abrams is batting fourth for the NL. What a year it’s been for him. The other takeaway is I initially wrote Freddie Freeman’s team in my book as “ATL” rather than “LAD.” I’m not sure what that means, but it’s the first mistake on what’s sure to be a rather messy scorecard.
The Pregame: I’m writing this as the lineups are being announced. Each player is entering through an MLB-branded Liberty Bell and jogging a few feet to a podium, where they’re signing what appears to be the starting lineups on a large, old-timey document using quill and ink. What I’ve gotten out of this All-Star week is that Philadelphia really wants you to know that their culture is boxing, the founding fathers, and booing other teams players. The only players who didn’t get booed on announcement were the Phillies players and the Philly-born players (like Mike Trout). After all the players were aligned on the chalk — a process that took a bit more than 30 minutes — the Mastercard Kids4Techᵀᴹ entered and shook all the players hands.
The Post-Pregame: Play ball! Er, commercial break… Washington’s Lottery, North Idaho College, RnR RV Center, some sort of sponcon game show called Beat Shazam… and Play Ball! Er, no let’s hear from our hosts tonight, Joe Davis and John Smoltz, who I haven’t seen since the postseason. They’re interviewing Justin Verlander, and hinting
Keeping Score: I decided to watch the All-Star Game this year. Not only that, I decided to score the All-Star Game this year. I recently found my old scorebook and thought it’d be fun, since I’m here recapping this with you anyways. The first game in this scorebook is a Félix Hernández complete game from Opening Day 2011. The last is both halves of a doubleheader between Washington State University and Cal State Northridge in Pullman that I covered for the school paper in 2017. In between there’s the Mariners/Marlins game that was played in Seattle because of a U2 concert in Miami; a game from the Tokyo Dome that I woke up at 2 a.m. for, per my diligent notes; a game started by Blake Beavan that I did not proceed to score after the first inning; the Red Sox first game after the Boston Marathon bombing; a 2013 WBC game; a 2017 WBC game; and a bunch of losing Mariners baseball. I’m not quite sure what the point of scoring games is in 2026, with technology and such. But I’m adding to my corporeal collection of bizarre baseball games that I might not otherwise remember.
Star-Less: The 2026 All-Star Game was relatively starless. No Aaron Judge. No Shohei Ohtani. Yes Ernie Clement. I won’t lie and say that this adds to my interest in the All-Star Game, as I watch pretty much every year, albeit more passively. But it is cool that we’ll get to see a lot more of the B+ quality of player that I think makes the league so interesting these days. My takeaways from the starting lineups are that I think it’s cool CJ Abrams is batting fourth for the NL. What a year it’s been for him. The other takeaway is I initially wrote Freddie Freeman’s team in my book as “ATL” rather than “LAD.” I’m not sure what that means, but it’s the first mistake on what’s sure to be a rather messy scorecard.
The Pregame: I’m writing this as the lineups are being announced. Each player is entering through an MLB-branded Liberty Bell and jogging a few feet to a podium, where they’re signing what appears to be the starting lineups on a large, old-timey document using quill and ink. What I’ve gotten out of this All-Star week is that Philadelphia really wants you to know that their culture is boxing, the founding fathers, and booing other teams players. The only players who didn’t get booed on announcement were the Phillies players and the Philly-born players (like Mike Trout). After all the players were aligned on the chalk — a process that took a bit more than 30 minutes — the Mastercard Kids4Techᵀᴹ entered and shook all the players hands.
The Post-Pregame: Play ball! Er, commercial break… Washington’s Lottery, North Idaho College, RnR RV Center, some sort of sponcon game show called Beat Shazam… and Play Ball! Er, no let’s hear from our hosts tonight, Joe Davis and John Smoltz, who I haven’t seen since the postseason. They’re interviewing Justin Verlander, and hinting
