Hazel Lugosi – Page 13 – Topical Fruit

Even Sarah McLachlan Needs a Break from Her Own ASPCA Ad

If you’ve ever teared up during a commercial featuring sad-eyed animals and Sarah McLachlan’s haunting vocals, you’re definitely not alone – and you’re in good company. Even Sarah McLachlan herself says it’s “painful” and she can’t sit through it.

The iconic ad for the ASPCA, set to her hit “Angel,” became a cultural touchstone and meme magnet for its sheer emotional gut-punch. But while it pulled at our heartstrings, it didn’t exactly reflect who McLachlan is as a person.

“I just need a little more *sad face*,” the director told her during filming, she recently revealed.

And while she agreed to do the commercial because she loves animals (and had a friend on the ASPCA board), she says the finished product painted her as “this sort of quiet, sad person with all my puppies and kittens.”

Not exactly the upbeat vibe she normally brings to the table.

Still, the ad clearly struck a nerve with viewers. In just one year, it helped raise a staggering $30 million for the ASPCA. So, while the emotional toll was high (for all of us), the payoff for animal welfare was massive.

Now, McLachlan is turning the page with some new music.

Her upcoming album, “Better Broken”, is set to drop on September 19th. No word yet on whether there’ll be any puppy cameos – just maybe no more emotionally devastating commercials.

So the next time you hear “In the arms of the angel…” and instinctively reach for a box of tissues (or the remote), just know: Sarah’s probably doing the exact same thing.

Hallmark’s Christmas in July Is Here

Break out the cocoa and crank up the AC because Hallmark Channel’s beloved Christmas in July tradition is back starting today. And this year, it’s coming with a fresh sprinkle of holiday magic: a brand-new docuseries about their first-ever Christmas Cruise.

The network’s mid-year yuletide binge-fest is known for rerunning cozy classics like “Christmas Under Wraps” and “The Nine Lives of Christmas”, but 2025’s lineup comes with some festive firsts.

It’s normal to watch Christmas movies in July, right?

And then premiering Monday night is “Christmas at Sea”, a four-part reality series following Hallmark superfans aboard the inaugural Christmas Cruise that set sail last November. Think Christmas carols, themed excursions, and more twinkly lights than your neighborhood HOA would ever allow.

Then the four-movie anthology, “Unwrapping Christmas”, which had been exclusive to Hallmark+, is getting its broadcast debut.

And the holiday cheer doesn’t stop there. Another Hallmark+ exclusive, the eight-episode limited series “Holidazed”, will finally hit linear TV screens. So if you’ve been dodging spoilers for that one, your time has come.

For the full schedule of sugarplum-packed programming, head to HallmarkChannel.com.

Popcorn and Patriotism: Top Movies for Your Independence Day Binge

Looking to celebrate the Fourth of July with something a little more chill than fireworks and cookouts? Fire up the popcorn and your favorite streaming service—because patriotic movie marathons are in season. Whether you’re in the mood for action, history, or a little old-fashioned Americana, ThePioneerWoman.com has you covered with a list of festive flicks perfect for the holiday.

Here are 30 standouts to help set the red, white, and blue mood:

“Jaws” (1975) – Nothing says “Fourth of July” quite like a beach town being terrorized by a great white shark. Classic.
“Top Gun” (1986) – Jet-fueled action, volleyball, and Tom Cruise in aviators. Instant USA vibes.
“The American President” (1995) – Presidential romance meets political idealism.
“Rocky” (1976) – An underdog story that’s all heart and Philadelphia grit.
“The Sandlot” (1993) – Summertime nostalgia and baseball—need we say more?
“An American Tail“ (1986) – A sweet animated tale of immigration and the American dream.
“Live Free or Die Hard“ (2007) – Cyber-terrorism vs. Bruce Willis. USA wins, obviously.
“National Treasure” (2004) – History class meets heist movie with Nicolas Cage doing peak Nicolas Cage things.
“Captain America: The First Avenger” (2011) – A literal superhero wrapped in a flag. Perfect.
“Apollo 13” (1995) – Real-life NASA drama that reminds you of American ingenuity.
“Mr. Smith Goes to Washington” (1939) – Jimmy Stewart delivers peak civic virtue.
“Air Force One” (1997) – “Get off my plane.” – Harrison Ford, American icon.
“Forrest Gump” (1994) – A Forrest-through-the-decades view of modern U.S. history.
“Hamilton” (2020) – If you haven’t watched it yet, now’s the perfect time.
“1776” (1972) – Founding Fathers sing their way through independence.
“The Six Triple Eight” (2022) – Tells the powerful true story of the only all-Black, all-female battalion in WWII.
“Captain America: Brave New World” (2025) – Sam Wilson takes up the shield in this latest Marvel chapter.
“Purple Hearts” (2022) – A military romance that dives into the complexities of love and service.
“Argo” (2012) – Tense and heroic, Ben Affleck’s film spotlights a daring hostage rescue.
“First Daughter” (2004) – Life in college gets tricky when you’re also the president’s kid.
“Johnny Tremain” (1957) – A Disney classic that revisits Paul Revere’s midnight ride.
“U-571” (2000) – A gripping WWII submarine thriller.
“Mr. 3000“ (2004) – Baseball and redemption mix in this sports comedy.
“Gettysburg“ (1993) – An epic Civil War retelling that leans heavily into historical drama.
“Lone Survivor” (2013) – A harrowing Navy SEAL mission based on real events.
“Night at the Museum” (2006) – History comes alive (literally) in the most fun way possible.
“The Post” (2017) – A newsroom drama steeped in First Amendment battles.
“The Right Stuff” (1983) – A high-flying story of NASA’s earliest pioneers.
“We Are Marshall” (2006) – A college town rebuilds after tragedy, grounded in grit and unity.
“The Great American Fourth of July and Other Disasters” (1982) – A nostalgic TV special about one family’s chaotic holiday.

But seriously, where is “Independence Day” on this list? Alien invasions, exploding monuments, Will Smith punching an extraterrestrial? We demand justice.

Whether you’re into historical dramas, family fun, or full-blown fireworks on screen, there’s something on this list to suit every kind of patriot. So if you’re staying in this weekend, grab some snacks, crank up the A/C, and let the stars and stripes fly on screen.

The General Lee Lives! “Dukes of Hazzard” Stunt Recreated in Spectacular Fashion

If you’ve ever dreamed of watching the General Lee fly through the air like it did every week on “The Dukes of Hazzard”, you’re in luck—because it just happened. For real.

On Saturday, a stunt driver launched a replica of the iconic orange Dodge Charger 150 feet through the air in downtown Somerset, Kentucky, recreating a classic TV moment with a very real risk of disaster. The car soared over the city’s fountain square as part of the Somernites Cruise, a massive classic car show now in its 25th year.

And yes, the landing was exactly what you’d expect from a car that just flew a third of a football field.

The General Lee slammed into the ground, bounced a few times, shed its back bumper and a door, and nearly clipped a cameraman. Because nothing screams authentic like a flying car barely missing a guy with a camcorder.

The daredevil behind the wheel was Raymond Kohn, a stuntman known for his work with the Northeast Ohio Dukes. He’s done these kinds of jumps before, all in tribute to the TV show’s over-the-top stunts—and, let’s be honest, physics-defying nonsense.

About 35,000 people showed up to watch the jump, turning Somerset into a scene straight out of Hazzard County. Making things even more nostalgic, actors John Schneider and Byron Cherry, a.k.a. Bo and Coy Duke, were also on hand, signing autographs and snapping photos with fans.

The event quickly went viral, with clips of the jump making the rounds online, and it’s easy to see why. Between the flying muscle car, the roaring crowd, and the brush with bodily harm, it’s pure internet gold—and a throwback for anyone who grew up watching the Duke boys outwit Boss Hogg.

So You Wanna Be on “AGT”? Get Ready to Be Roasted on National TV

If you’ve ever dreamed of auditioning for “America’s Got Talent”, get ready to leave your ego at the door – and maybe pack some thick skin while you’re at it.

Now in its 20th season, the hit reality show isn’t just about talent and standing ovations. According to “People”, the contestant contract includes a clause stating that your appearance may be, quote, “disparaging, defamatory, embarrassing, or of an otherwise unfavorable nature.” Translation? The show has full permission to roast you on national TV.

That might sound harsh, but it’s standard fare in the world of reality competitions. It’s likely why reality show “villains” don’t usually run off to sue for hurt feelings. Public ridicule is part of the package, and if you’re not cool with being edited into a meme, you probably shouldn’t sign on the dotted line.

But that’s not the only fine print hopefuls should know. Here are a few other behind-the-scenes rules contestants agree to:

You’re not the boss of your song choices. Even the most gifted singers collaborate with producers to select tracks that suit their voice and meet licensing requirements.
Wardrobe is a team effort. Once you’re on the live shows, producers help choose your performance outfits . . . goodbye, lucky sweater.
Props and pets need a green light. Any stunts involving animals or stage tricks have to be approved ahead of time for safety reasons.
It all starts with a 90-second audition. Every act, no matter how polished they look on TV, first goes through an open call audition that’s over in less time than it takes to microwave popcorn.
You’re not getting rich (yet). Contestants don’t get paid to appear, but the show does cover living expenses, so at least there’s that.

Whether you’re a magician, singer, or a guy who juggles flaming lawn chairs while riding a unicycle (there’s always one), just know this: AGT wants you to shine—but it’s not afraid to let you flop either. All in the name of great TV.

Steve from “Blue’s Clues” Is Launching a Podcast for Grown-Ups

Ready to feel all the nostalgic feels? Steve Burns – the original, green-striped-shirt-wearing host of “Blue’s Clues” – is officially stepping into the podcast world. But this time, he’s not talking to Salt, Pepper, or Mailbox. He’s talking to you.

Steve’s new podcast is called “Alive“, and it’s aimed at the generation who grew up with him and might now be quietly spiraling into adulthood.

Each weekly episode will explore what it means to “stay human in a complicated world.” Think: self-reflection, curiosity, and probably fewer cartoon chairs with faces.

Burns says the inspiration came from his viral 2021 video marking the 25th anniversary of “Blue’s Clues”, where he popped back into our lives to say he never forgot us … and yes, we cried.

In describing “Alive”, Steve said, “There are a thousand podcasts you can listen to, this is one that listens back.”

He wants to pick up right where he left off decades ago, but with grown-up themes like connection, curiosity, and asking deeper questions.

In other words, this is still a show about following clues, just not the crayon-drawn kind.And in case you’re worried that this is going to be all introspection and no fun, Steve promises there will still be a little lightness sprinkled in. “There will be LESS talking furniture,” he said, “but there will still be some fun along the way.”

The show is expected to drop this fall, and judging by the buzz around it already, “Alive” might just be the cozy, thoughtful podcast hug our collective inner child needs.

So, whether you’re solving existential mysteries or just need a reminder that someone still believes in you, Steve is back.

No Mercy: Martin Kove Bit His “Cobra Kai” Co-Star at a Fan Convention

This is not how Sensei Kreese was supposed to strike first.

In what might be the weirdest thing to happen at a fan convention lately, “Cobra Kai” star Martin Kove was reportedly kicked out of an event in Washington on Sunday after biting his co-star Alicia Hannah-Kim.

That’s right. He bit her.

Kove, 78, is best known for playing the no-mercy dojo master John Kreese in “The Karate Kid” and “Cobra Kai”. Hannah-Kim, who plays fellow villainous sensei Kim Da-Eun, says she was walking past him when he suddenly grabbed her arm and chomped down. According to her police report, the bite was hard enough to leave a visible bruise and nearly broke the skin.

And as if that wasn’t bizarre enough, she says he then kissed her arm—y’know, like that makes it better?

Hannah-Kim didn’t press charges, but she did file a report and take photos. She also claims that when she calmly told him what he did was unacceptable, he got angry and insisted he’d done it “for fun.”

Kove later apologized, but only after the police showed up and asked him to leave.

Fun fact: One of Bill Hader’s first jobs in Hollywood was driving Kove around. He talked about it on Marc Maron’s podcast and didn’t exactly paint Kove in the nicest light. 👀

20 Iconic Beach Scenes That Still Make Waves in Pop Culture

Summer’s here, the sunscreen’s out, and whether you’re actually beach-bound or just dreaming from your desk, it’s the perfect time to relive some of the best beach moments ever captured on screen. “Entertainment Weekly“ pulled together a salty, sun-drenched list of pop culture’s most unforgettable beach scenes—and honestly, it’s a total vibe.

Let’s dive in (with SPF 50, obviously).

1. “Jaws” (1975)
Beach terror hits its peak with the frantic rush of swimmers fleeing the water.

2. “Baywatch” (1989–2001)
An entire TV show dedicated to slow-mo running on the sand. Red swimsuits, dramatic rescues, and a generation of people suddenly motivated to become lifeguards.

3. “The Notebook” (2004)
“If you’re a bird, I’m a bird.” Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams get romantic and soggy in a beachside moment of pure rom-dram.

4. “Point Break” (1991)
Patrick Swayze’s final, defiant surf into a deadly wave is haunting and beautiful. A perfect exit.

5. “Casino Royale” (2006)
Daniel Craig walks out of the ocean in tight blue trunks, flipping the traditional Bond girl moment on its head. Internet = broken.

6. “The 400 Blows” (1959)
In Truffaut’s French New Wave masterpiece, young Antoine finally reaches the ocean. His frozen, pensive stare into the camera has haunted cinephiles ever since.

7. “Barbie” (2023)
Ryan Gosling’s Ken gets ultra competitive with Simu Liu’s Ken in a “beach off.” Bonus: Venice Beach plays a starring role when Barbie ventures into the real world, sparkles and all.

8. “From Here to Eternity” (1953)
No beach list is complete without this one: Burt Lancaster and Deborah Kerr rolling around in the surf mid-affair. Waves crashing. Passion overflowing. Absolute classic.

9. “The Office” (2007)
“Beach Games” features Michael Scott leading the Dunder Mifflin crew in ridiculous competitions. Fun fact: it’s actually a lake. But the energy is very beach.

10. “Planet of the Apes” (1968)
The Statue of Liberty buried in sand. The twist. The existential horror. All thanks to one chilling beach reveal.

11. “Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle” (2003)
Demi Moore struts out of the ocean while Little Surfer Girl plays. Sass, style, and surf—it’s peak early-2000s camp.

12. “Happy Days” (1977)
The origin of the phrase “jumping the shark,” literally. Fonzie water-skis over a shark while wearing his leather jacket on the episode, “Hollywood: Part 3”. Television, folks.

13. “Mad Men” (2013)
Don Draper might be in paradise in the episode “The Doorway”, but this Hawaiian beach scene reveals a man haunted by existential dread, all while reading Dante’s Inferno in the sun.

14. “Die Another Day” (2002)
Speaking of Bond girls: Halle Berry’s slow-mo strut from the sea in an orange bikini became instant film history.

15. “Top Gun” (1986)
Shirtless, sweaty volleyball with Tom Cruise and Val Kilmer. Need we say more?

16. “The Karate Kid” (1984)
Wax on, wax off. And yes, that includes Ralph Macchio learning the iconic crane kick right there on the sand.

17. “Chariots of Fire” (1981)
That opening scene . . . runners charging along a wind-whipped beach to the Vangelis synth score . . . pure cinematic gold.

18. “Friends” (1997)
“The One with the Jellyfish” gave us way too much info about first aid, and peeing on someone to help them.

19. “Saving Private Ryan” (1998)
One of the most harrowing depictions of D-Day ever filmed, as Tom Hanks and company land on Omaha Beach. Brutal. Important. Unforgettable.

20. “Splash” (1984)
Tom Hanks meets Daryl Hannah (as a literal mermaid) in a dreamy, sandy, fish-out-of-water moment that launched a thousand beachy rom-coms.

The 10 Most Valuable Team Sales in U.S. Sports History

If you thought sports team prices were already out of control, buckle up, because the Los Angeles Lakers just sold for a jaw-dropping $10 billion, making it the most expensive team sale in U.S. history. That’s billion with a B.

This historic deal knocks the Boston Celtics out of the top spot and cements the Lakers’ legacy not just on the court, but also in the boardroom. For sports fans, business junkies, and anyone who’s ever wondered how much a franchise is actually worth, here’s how the all-time leaderboard shakes out now:

Top 10 Most Expensive Sports Team Sales in U.S. History:

Los Angeles Lakers – $10 billion
Boston Celtics – $6.1 billion
Washington Commanders – $6.05 billion
Denver Broncos – $4.65 billion
Phoenix Suns – $4 billion
Dallas Mavericks – $3.5 billion
Charlotte Hornets – $3 billion
New York Mets – $2.4 billion
Brooklyn Nets – $2.35 billion
Carolina Panthers – $2.275 billion

Just let this sink in: In less than two decades, the ceiling for team sales has more than quadrupled. A big chunk of the boom can be credited to media rights, streaming deals, global merchandising, and a whole lot of billionaire FOMO.

Interestingly, this list is a mix of teams across the NBA, NFL, MLB, and even some surprising names (hello, Charlotte Hornets?). Basketball franchises seem to dominate the top spots now, which is a shift from past decades when NFL teams led the charge.

The Lakers, with their worldwide fan base, celebrity allure, and rich championship history, were always expected to go big, but $10 billion big? That’s next-level. And with franchise values continuing to soar, it might not be long before another team makes a run at that record.

Until then, the purple and gold sit on top of yet another mountain.

Bad Classic Rock Covers You Probably Forgot (or Tried To)

If you’ve ever had the misfortune of hearing a classic rock cover that was so bad it felt like a personal attack, you’re not alone. Music fans have strong opinions, and “Ultimate Classic Rock” put together a list of cringe-worthy renditions that many would rather forget. Think “American Pie” by Madonna or U2’s version of “Fortunate Son.”

Let’s just say, some of these tracks have aged about as well as unrefrigerated potato salad.

“Dancing in the Street” – Mick Jagger & David Bowie
It’s iconic, but not necessarily in a good way. Equal parts campy and chaotic, this one still haunts YouTube comment sections.
“Fortunate Son” – U2
U2’s take on the Creedence Clearwater Revival protest anthem left fans wondering if irony died in the studio that day.
“What’s Going On” – Cyndi Lauper
Cyndi took a socially conscious Motown classic and gave it… whatever this was.
“Faith” – Limp Bizkit
George Michael meets Fred Durst. Need we say more?
“American Pie” – Madonna
She trimmed the song and added electronic beats. America still hasn’t forgiven her.
“My Generation” – Hilary Duff
When the Who said “Hope I die before I get old,” they probably didn’t imagine it sounding like Disney Channel.
“Imagine” – Avril Lavigne
A cover so safe it somehow manages to miss the emotional core entirely.
“One Way or Another” – One Direction
Teen pop energy meets punky Blondie attitude. One of those things got lost in translation.
“I Love Rock ’N Roll” – Britney Spears
Featured in her movie “Crossroads”, this version came with a pop sheen that left the grit behind.
“Do Ya Think I’m Sexy” – Paris Hilton
No, Paris. Just… no.
“Purple Haze” – The Cure
Their sample-heavy, synth-drenched version of Hendrix’s classic felt more like a remix than a tribute.
“Behind Blue Eyes” – Limp Bizkit
Featuring a Speak & Spell bridge, it managed to alienate both Who fans and nu-metal fans.
“Big Yellow Taxi” – Counting Crows
A lifeless take on Joni Mitchell’s environmental anthem that critics called cloyingly commercial.
“Anarchy in the U.K.” – Mötley Crüe
The glam metal treatment stripped away the Sex Pistols’ sneering edge and punk attitude.
“Is She Really Going Out With Him?” – Sugar Ray
A too-smooth cover of Joe Jackson’s acerbic original, with none of the bite.
“About a Girl” – Puddle of Mudd
A live performance so off-key, it went viral for all the wrong reasons.
“You Shook Me All Night Long” – Celine Dion & Anastacia
Bombastic vocals and dance-pop flair tried to overpower AC/DC—and failed spectacularly.
“Toys in the Attic” – R.E.M.
Folk-rock meets hard rock, and neither comes out looking good.
“Smells Like Teen Spirit” – Take That
A bubblegum boy band tackling Nirvana’s anti-mainstream anthem. You can imagine how that went.
“Cat’s in the Cradle” – Ugly Kid Joe
Ironically a hit for them, but many felt their grungy take on the soft-rock ballad missed the emotional mark.
“Papa Don’t Preach” – Kelly Osbourne
Riding the coattails of reality TV, Kelly’s version lacked Madonna’s conviction—and energy.
“Rocky Mountain Way” – Godsmack
They gave Joe Walsh’s groove a heavy-metal makeover. It didn’t stick.
“The Sound of Silence” – Disturbed
Some loved it, some loathed it—but many felt it bulldozed the delicate poetry of the Simon & Garfunkel original.
“Saturday Night’s Alright for Fighting” – Nickelback feat. Kid Rock
This cover ditched Elton John’s glam swagger for blaring guitars and a whole lot of testosterone.
“Burning Down the House” – The Used
Talking Heads’ funky, eccentric vibe got lost in an emo-punk blender.

If you’re brave enough, you can check out the full 35-entry list at UltimateClassicRock.com. Just maybe keep the volume low—and don’t say we didn’t warn you.

And if you’ve never seen the silent music video for “Dancing in the Street”… you’re welcome.