Entertainment
This Beach Boys Song Was Written By an Infamous Cult Leader
For a band with such a sunny disposition, The Beach Boys have their fair share of dark history. It is far from unusual for musicians to harbor secrets and regrets – the life of a rock star grants access to all sorts of debauchery. That being said, there are some things that are so shocking and life-altering that they can never be hidden away – no matter how badly one may want to. For The Beach Boys, the most terrifying skeleton in their proverbial closet takes the form of an unlikely connection to the most well-known cult in American history.
It is unlikely that any of the band members thought they would record a song written by cult leader and murder convict Charles Manson. In fact, many claimed they had no idea it was he who penned “Never Learn Not To Love,” the B-side for their 1986 single “Bluebirds Over the Mountain.” To be fair, Manson was never given writing credit (more on that later). So, how did the bubbly pop/rock kings of California get involved with Manson?
Charles Manson and The Family
First, a quick refresher on Charles Manson. In 1967, he was released from a twelve-year stint in prison. Soon after, he formed the infamous Manson Family. For a while, the cult lived nomadically, drifting across California in a gutted school bus. Eventually, they established a commune at the abandoned Spahn Movie Ranch: a 55 acre plot formerly used to film Western movies. Most of the people in Manson’s cult were vulnerable young people (predominantly women) who were drawn to the hippie lifestyle. Manson used his charisma to manipulate his followers – they saw him as a magnanimous guru who would lead them to happiness and enlightenment. Unfortunately, the only thing the Family accomplished was at least nine slayings (and potentially many more), most notably the Tate-LaBianca murders.
An Unfortunate Chance Interaction
One fateful afternoon in 1968, The Beach Boys’ drummer Dennis Wilson picked up two women hitchhiking in Malibu. He dropped them off at their destination and continued his drive home. About a week later, Wilson spotted the same two girls and gave them a ride once again. This time, he brought them back to his house. There, the women told him of their guru, a man they affectionately referred to as “Charlie.”
Soon after, Wilson returned home to find a school bus parked in his driveway. A small man was standing beside it. Initially startled by the arrival of this bizarre little stranger, Wilson approached with caution. Eventually, he (incorrectly) decided his uninvited visitor was not a threat to him, and invited him and his bus full of companions into his Sunset Boulevard home. Wilson had no way of knowing he had reached the point of no return.
Dennis Wilson Opens His Home to The Manson Family
Manson and the Family would remain in Dennis Wilson’s home for the better part of five months. While for many it is difficult to imagine welcoming twenty-odd strangers into their home indefinitely, it’s important to remember that these were different times. In the late ’60s — specifically in California and especially within artistic communities — there was a widespread belief in free love and communal living. There was also an increase in spirituality and psychedelic drug use. Pair all that with party boy Dennis Wilson fresh from a divorce, and the situation seems a bit less outrageous.
For a while, things were going fairly well in the commandeered Wilson household (relatively speaking). Manson was generous with his drugs, women, and spiritual knowledge – and Wilson bankrolled the entire operation. The motley crew had reached a delicate equilibrium. It is important to note that this all took place before the Family’s heinous crimes, back when Manson was surely off-putting but not outwardly violent. Had Wilson known what was to come, he likely would have made some very different decisions.
All told, Wilson would spend one hundred thousand dollars on the Manson Family. He bought all of their food, clothing, and medicine throughout their time with him. However, money and housing were not the only things Manson wanted from Dennis Wilson. He had an ulterior motive – Manson dreamed of being a rock star, and he wanted Wilson to use his connections in the industry to make this dream into reality.
Manson’s Failed Attempt at Superstardom
Initially, Wilson obliged. He introduced Manson to a variety of producers and musicians, including Neil Young and Terry Melcher (producer for The Byrds.) Some of these people saw a sort of diamond-in-the-rough quality about Manson and his music, maybe a glimmer of potential beneath his unsettling exterior. Most were just plain freaked out. Manson had a tendency to threaten violence when things weren’t going his way, which (understandably) made many of Wilson’s industry contacts hesitant to work with him. These, shall we say, differences of opinion caused the first cracks in Manson and Wilson’s short-lived friendship.
The unlikely pair would soon part ways, but not before Manson wrote a song specifically for The Beach Boys. It was called “Cease to Exist,” and Wilson immediately saw its potential. Allegedly, he paid Manson “about a hundred thousand dollars worth of stuff” in lieu of crediting him on the song. While this exchange is largely disputed, and it is unclear whether this was in reference to the same hundred thousand he spent on the Family’s cost of living, the outcome was the same: Dennis took the writing credit for himself. He showed the song to the rest of the band, who agreed that it was worth recording after a few alterations. They changed the title to “Never Learn Not to Love” and switched up the lyrics, then recorded the song in their private studio. Manson was present, but he did not contribute to the recording.
The End of an Unlikely Friendship
When Manson heard the changes to his song, he was infuriated. He tasked the Family with destroying some of Wilson’s property and even left a bullet in his bed. It is safe to say this was the end of Dennis Wilson and Charles Manson’s friendship, and it was clear they could no longer all live together harmoniously. Wilson had been growing tired of cohabitating with the cult since long before the fallout from the song. His hospitality had run out. Instead of the Family moving out, Wilson abandoned his own home (it was a rental and the lease was nearly up) and let the landlord deal with Manson and his followers.
In 1970, while on trial for nine murders, Charles Manson released an album called Lie: The Love and Terror Cult. On this album, he included his version of “Cease to Exist.” The album only sold about three hundred copies, most likely purchased by deluded fans of Manson and his family. Once again, Manson’s attempt at becoming a rock star failed spectacularly.
It is important to acknowledge that there are a lot of conflicting accounts of this unbelievable tale. While Charles Manson and Dennis Wilson’s relationship is well-documented, many disagree on the details. The timeline is messy — whether this is due to copious drug use or an affliction to the truth, we may never know. One thing is undeniably true: it was not all surf, sand, and school spirit for Dennis Wilson and the rest of The Beach Boys.
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As a self-proclaimed fall girl, I eagerly await the start of the crisp, cool season ahead. Not only am I all about the shift in weather, but I’m equally obsessed with the fashionable fall wardrobe reset. You know, that moment when linen dresses give way to softer, richer textures, including satins, silks, velvet and sumptuously soft cotton.
Recently, I’ve been perusing my favorite retailers to piece together a host of elegant fall dresses that feel silky soft, look elevated and make transitioning into the season a little more exciting. My favorites from Amazon, Nordstrom, Quince and Hill House Home do not disappoint. Shop these 13 elegant pre-fall dresses below — starting at $10.
13 Soft and Elegant Pre-Fall Dresses
1. Our Favorite: Show off your shape in this long-sleeve button-up dress. Available in fall-centric hues like emerald green, burgundy and rich florals, it’s the kind of piece that slips seamlessly into the season.
2. Luxe for Less: Transition straight into fall in this sleeveless satin dress. The loose, figure-forgiving midi is light enough for summer but instantly layer‑ready in the fall with a cropped cardigan or tailored blazer.
3. Velvety Smooth: This smocked velvet midi is loved for its elegant design, flattering smocked waist and nonstop compliment power. Reviewers say it’s a wedding guest dress favorite.
4. Chic Cotton: Polished tailoring, a ruched waist and drapey shoulders make this cotton midi dress one of those polished pieces that does the work for you. Even better: it’s extremely soft.
5. Long and Lean: Talk about expensive‑looking! This long‑sleeve satin dress from Mango would look stunning with knee‑high boots, lightweight scarves — basically all those rich mom wardrobe essentials.
In a style rut? We totally feel that. It’s hard to know exactly what fashion finds to wear as we transition from summer to fall but it’s not impossible! One of our favorite ways to get inspiration is by looking at what other people are shopping, and Amazon’s ‘Current Obsessions’ page makes it incredibly easy […]
6. Layer Ready: The best thing about this spaghetti-strap velvet dress? It gives your wardrobe a great base to build on with everything from sleek blazers and cozy cardigans to strappy heels and fall‑ready boots.
7. Size Inclusive: Simple and chic, this cotton midi dress has that classic quiet luxury appeal. Our only dilemma is choosing a favorite color. Bonus: it comes in sizes XS to 4X.
8. Boho Babe: Not ready to give up that breezy, laid-back summer silhouette yet? This loose Free People maxi dress lets you usher fall in with just a few soft layers, and a great pair of ankle boots.
9. Splurge Worthy: Hill House Home always delivers a dreamy fall collection, and this long-sleeve nap dress is proof. Designed with a flirty V-neck and a gathered waist, the fall frock features a gorgeous blue and green floral print that we’re eyeing.
10. Wear Everywhere: Confession time: I already own this silk tank dress in four different colors, and it’s always a fall stand-out. Washable, stretchy and figure-flattering, it’s not your ordinary silk dress.
11. Ultra Slimming: Light enough for late summer and perfect for fall, this jersey wrap dress delivers a flattering, slimming fit that’s still wonderfully cozy. I’m loving the color choices, too — including wine red, sage and a coppery brown.
12. Reviewer Loved: I love a good year-round dress, and this soft puff‑sleeve midi fits the bill. The Abercrombie style comes in both sensible and playful patterns, as well as an array of fits like petite and tall.
13. Celeb Loved: Celebs like Meghan Markle and Reese Witherspoon love J.Crew for its elegant fall fashion. This new zip‑up shirt dress is cozy, figure‑flattering and refined, aka it’s an easy confidence‑booster for crisp fall days.
UsNow Summer Sale Alert: These Chic Fashion Finds are over 30% off – Plus Free Shipping
Welcome to summer with our biggest sale of the year. This summer’s chicest dresses, tops and swimsuits are all over 30% + free shipping. Inventory is limited so hurry before they’re gone.
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If your closet has been overrun by baby tees, we have some good news: there’s a new silhouette taking over, and it’s giving Us room to breathe. The latest must-have tops are a little looser, a little slouchier and a whole lot more comfortable — basically, the fashion girl’s answer to looking cute without feeling squeezed by your clothes.
Fashion girls are calling them ‘schlubby’ tops, and honestly, the name says it all. Think oversized sweaters, boxy tees, breezy blouses and relaxed silhouettes that still look intentional when paired with your favorite jeans, shorts or trousers. We rounded up 13 of our favorites from Amazon, Walmart, J.Crew Factory, Athleta and Quince to help you embrace the roomier top trend this season.
13 Flattering, Roomy Tops to Replace Your Baby Tees
1. Our Favorite: If you’re ready to graduate from skin-tight tops but aren’t quite ready for a full-on sweatshirt, this lightweight casual pullover find hits the sweet spot. The relaxed fit, crew neckline and easy-knit fabric make it the kind of throw-on-and-go staple you’ll reach for all season.
2. Runner-up: Who says a roomy top can’t look polished? This bubble blouse has an easy, flowy shape that gives you plenty of breathing room while still looking pulled together with jeans, trousers or shorts.
3. Editor-Approved: Consider this the fun cousin of your basic tank. The sleeveless silhouette and playful bubble hem ensure it’s airy while still feeling intentional, and the style works with everything from denim shorts to wide-leg pants.
4. The Statement Sleeve: When you want an oversized look that doesn’t read boring, a blouse with a little volume is the answer. A button-front design and bubble-sleeve shape add just enough drama to make even your most basic bottoms feel like an outfit.
5. Designer-Looking: This lightweight sweater has that effortlessly polished J.Crew look without requiring complicated styling. It’s relaxed, hits at the hip and is made from a cotton blend that makes it easy to layer over tanks or wear solo on breezier days.
Still have one more beach trip on the calendar? Summersalt is making a strong case for refreshing your swim drawer before summer officially calls it a day. The retailer’s Annual Summer Sale is offering 30% off with code GET30, including plenty of vacation-ready swimwear styles that can take you from the beach to the pool […]
6. Best for Travel: Calling all chronic overpackers! This is the kind of top that’s worthy of precious suitcase space. The suede-soft, breathable fabric has a loose fit with room to move or layer, and the low-hip length pairs well with both leggings and jeans.
7. Best Budget Pick: A boxy tee is basically the gateway into the ‘schlubby’ lifestyle, and Walmart’s $6 find makes the trend especially easy to try. Made from 100% cotton, it features an easy, cropped shape with side slits for a little extra movement.
8. Best for a Polished Look: This is proof that roomy doesn’t have to mean sloppy. The slightly cropped, boxy silhouette and V-neck give this $16 organic cotton tee a more elevated feel, so you can pair it with trousers or a skirt when a basic tee won’t cut it.
9. Best Button-Down: Here’s the kind of oversized shirt that makes ‘I just threw this on’ look surprisingly chic. With its relaxed fit, button-front design and classic collar, this pick is an effortless way to embrace the schlubby-top trend without looking like you borrowed your dad’s shirt.
10. Best Slub Tee: If you love the idea of a roomy tee but don’t want it to swallow your frame, Walmart’s option has a generous boxy cut that still feels intentional. The soft cotton-blend fabric and slightly cropped length make it a match for jeans, shorts or flowy skirts.
11. Best for a Quiet-Luxury Vibe: There’s something about a simple, well-cut crewneck that always looks more expensive than it is. Quince’s organic cotton version has the relaxed shape we’re after, turning it into an easy foundation for a polished, minimalist look. (Plus, they come in a three-pack for $36!)
12. Summer-to-Fall: This is the kind of lightweight button-down you’ll wear on repeat when the weather is warm, but you still want a little coverage. The loose silhouette and breathable linen-blend feel make it ideal for throwing over a tank, pairing with shorts or wearing as a beach cover-up.
13. Everyday Essential: For the days when you want to feel like you’re wearing pajamas but still need to look like you got dressed, this swingy tee gets the job done. The relaxed shape gives you that coveted no-cling feel while still looking polished enough for errands, coffee runs and casual plans.
UsNow Summer Sale Alert: These Chic Fashion Finds are over 30% off – Plus Free Shipping
Welcome to summer with our biggest sale of the year. This summer’s chicest dresses, tops and swimsuits are all over 30% + free shipping. Inventory is limited so hurry before they’re gone.
Finding pants that are equal parts comfortable and flattering can feel nearly impossible. Too often, relaxed silhouettes add bulk instead of creating the long, lean look we’re after, but the right pair of wide-leg pants does the exact opposite, elongating your legs while keeping you cool and comfortable. Luckily, I’ve scoured through the hundreds of […]
Kate Walsh revealed she is no longer based in Australia and has now made the move back to the United States.
“Living on the beach for a long time as an extended postcard holiday was probably really good for my health in some ways,” Walsh, 58, quipped while speaking exclusively to Us at the Centrum Inside and Outside Makeover Salon Experience on Thursday, August 13, in New York City. “I was right by the sea and swimming every day.”
The actress has since relocated again, adding, “I’m back in New York now actually. I love the city and I find that it feeds my soul. It feeds me creatively and culturally.”
She continued: “I love walking. In L.A, you’re driving all the time and you live in your car. So there’s outdoor hiking — which is great — but I love being back here in the city and being able to walk.”
Walsh originally made the move from Los Angeles to Australia after travel restrictions in 2020 led to her meeting now-fiancé, Andrew Nixon. She returned to the U.S. to film a variety of projects including new episodes of Grey’s Anatomy and more.
Now, Walsh is back in the Big Apple and is focused on finding the balance between her personal and professional lives.
“You hear about people who have a health challenge — whether it’s cancer or brain tumor — where if you’re lucky enough to get through it, then you’re like, ‘OK, I’m going to change everything.’ And I did,’” she told Us while discussing past health scares. “I have a much different relationship to work and life balance than I ever did before. I used to say to people, ‘Well, if you want to hang out, then you’ve got to come work with me.’ Because that’s how I used to just live to work.”
Walsh has enjoyed shifting her focus.
“That was great for a while. But even before, it was like, ‘OK, this is running its course and I want to spend more time with family and friends,’” she noted. “And I love traveling and I love finding ways to be of service. I get to do a lot of great stuff with Oceana and with Planned Parenthood. I get to do things and be with my love, [Andrew Nixon]. I have love in my life.”
Despite making changes in her life, Walsh has still found the time to use her platform to be more outspoken about healthy aging through a partnership with Centrum.
“I really didn’t get into serious supplements until probably my mid-30s, around the time that Centrum Age Defy would be great. Why I like Centrum Silver is it’s great for brain health,” she noted. “It’s great for brain function and heart health and eyes. These are things that as you age and get into your 50s become more prevalent and necessary than say they would when you’re younger. … Centrum vitamins are clinically proven and have been doing this for a very long time. There are so many things out there that this is quite comforting.”
Chappell Roan is gradually finding her way back into society!
The singer seems to be finding her voice and vibe again months after a scandal involving an 11-year-old rocked her camp, leading to a ban from a Brazilian authority.
Chappell Roan had at the beginning of the year announced a termination of her professional relationship with a talent agency that connected her to the Jeffrey Epstein files.
The songwriter surprised the audience when she joined Noah Kahan onstage at the Rose Bowl Stadium in Los Angeles on Saturday, August 15. The duo teamed up to deliver a sonorous version of Roan’s “California” on the sold-out “The Great Divide” tour.
Before getting into the business of the day, Roan took the time to praise Kahan for constantly supporting her publicly. As coveted by fans, Roan and Kahan greeted each other with a fist bump as she informed the crowd that Kahan has always been in her corner.
Kahan also extended the good words on Roan’s way, informing the crowd that “California” was his introduction to being obsessed with the singer’s catalog and he became an instant fan upon first listen.
As stated by The Daily Mail, Kahan also expressed pride in Roan’s success and showed gratitude that she had agreed to join him onstage before the pair began their performance.
The Performer Quietly Popped Up At Coachella After Making Her Feelings About Intrusive Fans Clear
Weeks after the March controversy, Roan made an unexpected stop at the star-studded Coachella festival in Indio, California, although she was not included in the official line-up.
As shared by The Blast, she opted for a subtle look featuring flatter-looking hair with less volume, softer makeup, miles away from her popular theatrical glam.
She put a spin on her subtle fashion, stepping out in a pirate-inspired ensemble featuring dramatic gold-fringed epaulets, and was later seen spending time with Manon while watching Sabrina Carpenter perform.
The outing followed a period of heightened attention surrounding Roan, who has repeatedly been outspoken about the uncomfortable realities that have accompanied her rapid rise to fame since her breakthrough in 2024.
The singer has spoken out against the notion that being a celebrity automatically means fans have unlimited access to her. In a social media video last summer, Roan condemned harassment, stalking and other intrusive behavior, arguing that their prevalence in celebrity culture does not make them acceptable.
She stressed that fame does not erase personal boundaries or create an obligation to give strangers photos, hugs or her time. Roan also made it clear she was willing to be considered selfish if saying no was what it took to protect her personal space.
Chappell Roan Got An Earful From Jorginho After Alleged Run-In With Her Security
In March, Roan was involved in a controversy involving former Chelsea soccer player Jorginho and his 11-year-old daughter, Ada, at a São Paulo hotel. As noted by The Blast, his daughter, who was in Brazil at the same time as Roan for Lollapalooza and is a big Roan fan, spotted the singer during breakfast.
He recalled his daughter simply walking past her table to confirm if it was her without approaching or speaking to Roan. Unfortunately, the athlete shared that his daughter’s actions were enough to attract a member of Roan’s security who confronted Ada’s mother, Catherine Harding.
The footballer claimed that the security personnel accused Harding of allowing Ada to disrespect or harass Roan, as he described the reaction as excessive and said Ada was left in tears. Roan acknowledged the importance of respecting celebrities’ boundaries but argued that his daughter had not crossed any.
He described his daughter’s actions as those of an excited young fan before directly criticizing Roan, declaring that artists would lose relevance without their supporters.
Rio de Janeiro’s Mayor Shut Out The Grammy Award Winner From The City Following Jorginho’s Outburst
The former Arsenal player’s account of the event caught the attention of Rio de Janeiro’s mayor Eduardo Cavaliere, who responded to his post on X.
The mayor reassured the footballer and public that as long as he remains in charge of the city, Roan would not be invited to perform at Todo Mundo no Rio, the city-backed megashow series held at Copacabana Beach.
The event has featured iconic singers in the past, including Madonna, Lady Gaga and Shakira, who were booked to headline the festival in May. Cavaliere drew a comparison between Roan and Shakira, insisting that the latter would never treat an 11-year-old like that.
Before the incident, Roan had gotten involved in a confrontation with the paparazzi in Paris after claiming photographers repeatedly ignored her calls to be left alone at dinner. Boy George later weighed in following the controversy, advising Roan to embrace the realities of celebrity rather than resist them.
He admitted that being famous could be frustrating, but that kindness is a better response and that sometimes it was easier to maintain boundaries than to communicate with fans.
Why Chappell Roan Ended Her Partnership With Talent Agency Founder Casey Wasserman
The first quarter of the year was a really ground-breaking one for the singer, and aside from the paparazzi controversies, she also made a huge adjustment in her team.
In February, she announced her departure from Wasserman’s agency on her Instagram Story, explaining that she expects the people and company representing her to operate on the same bandwidth.
Roan insisted that she holds her professional teams to a high standard and believes artists and employees should never be put in a position where they are expected to excuse conduct that clashes with their moral beliefs.
While she expressed appreciation for the agents and employees who have worked hard on behalf of their clients, Roan said she could not simply remain on the sidelines.
She stressed the need for artists to be represented in a manner that honors their beliefs and preserves their safety and dignity. Roan did not explicitly connect her exit to Wasserman’s appearance in the recently released Epstein-related documents.
However, her announcement came amid scrutiny over reportedly flirtatious exchanges between Wasserman and Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein’s convicted accomplice.
Metallica has released seven original studio albums since 1991, six of which debuted at number one on the Billboard Album chart. The California rockers crossed over to the masses with the 1991 self-titled classic, kicking off a string of hit records. Over the years, the quartet has won nine Grammy Awards, has two LPs in the Grammy Hall of Fame (Master of Puppets and The Black Album) and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2009.
While the quartet created generationally influential metal in the 80s, they exploded in the 90s, becoming a household name and creating music that seamlessly fits in with today’s classic rock radio programming. The band went through some trying times and musical growing pains in the 2000s, but have bounced back with authority over the years. Excluding the band’s 2011 collaboration with Lou Reed, Lulu, and 1998’s covers project Garage Inc., here is every studio album Metallica has released since 1991, ranked.
7
‘St. Anger’ (2003)
St. Anger is one of the most controversial metal releases of all time. Metallica’s eighth album is a raw and unpolished effort that captures the band during a tumultuous time. Bassist Jason Newstead left the outfit in 2001, and they entered the studio with producer Bob Rock on bass. Frontman James Hetfield entered rehab for alcoholism right after the band began the sessions. When Hetfield returned to the band, he was only allowed to record four hours a day to focus on his recovery, which angered drummer Lars Ulrich. It is all chronicled in the 2004 documentary Metallica: Some Kind of Monster.
The album is a departure for the group with an abrasive texture, raw production and a divisive metallic drum sound. The music is heavy and groove-oriented with zero guitar solos. It’s a brave effort, showing the band was not afraid to take risks, but it fails to stand up to the rest of Metallica’s historic catalog. All that said, “St. Anger” won the Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance in 2004 and the album has sold over six million copies around the world.
6
‘Reload’ (1997)
Reload consists of songs that were chiefly recorded during the prolific Load sessions. Following the tour behind Load, the outfit went back into the studio to finish the tracks. It’s the last album to feature Jason Newstead on bass and continues the band’s hard rock sound, focusing on slower grooves and straying from its thrash roots.
“Fuel” is the high-octane track inspired by James Hetfield’s love of fast cars. “The Unforgiven II” is the sequel to hit off The Black Album and features many motifs and nods to the original track. “The Memory Remains” features British singer Marianne Faithfull on backing vocals, marking the first time the band collaborated with another vocalist. It peaked at number 28 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Overall, Reload pales in comparison to Load. While it has some great tracks, it doesn’t stand up to Metallica’s more recent work.
5
‘Death Magnetic’ (2008)
Death Magnetic was produced by Rick Rubin and is the first Metallica album since …And Justice For All that was not helmed by Bob Rock. The LP is a return to form comprised of longer, more progressive songs with fast thrash riffs, guitar harmonies and long instrumental sections. It was a welcome change following the group’s polarizing 2004 effort St. Anger and is the first Metallica recording to feature bassist Robert Trujillo.
Highlights include “That Was Just Your Life,” “The End of the Line,” “Broken, Beaten, and Scarred,” “The Day That Never Comes,” “Cyanide,” which topped the mainstream rock charts and the Grammy-winning track “My Apocalypse.” “The Unforgiven III” puts a cap on the trilogy of songs introduced on The Black Album and is a departure on the heavy effort featuring keyboards and strings and some motifs used on the 1991 track “The Unforgiven.” The nearly 10-minute instrumental “Suicide & Redemption” features many tempo changes with complex drumming from Lars Ulrich and furious guitar work. Death Magnetic is a full-blown thrash record that is more similar to …And Justice For All and Master of Puppets than any effort they released since the 80s.
4
’72 Seasons’ (2023)
Metallica’s eleventh studio LP, 72 Seasons, was released in 2023, 40 years after its debut Kill ‘Em All. It is the group’s first album since 1988’s …And Justice For All to not debut at number one on the Billboard Album chart, ending a run of six straight number one LPs. The title of the hard-hitting effort refers to the first 18 years of a person’s life, which can be broken up into 72 seasons of spring, summer, autumn and winter. In the album’s liner notes, Hetfield explains, “The first 18 years of our lives that form our true and false selves. The concept that we were told ‘who we are’ by our parents. A possible pigeonholing around what kind of personality we are. Much of our adult experience is reenactment or reaction to these childhood experiences. Prisoners of childhood or breaking free of those bondages we carry.”
72 Seasons is a progressive and riff-heavy effort that proves Metallica is still relevant. The compelling record is a testament to the band’s longevity. “Lux Æterna,” which was released as the first single, is the shortest song at three-and-a-half minutes, but it’s jam-packed with speedy riffage with unconventional twists and turns. The epic title track, “72 Seasons,” which is just under eight minutes long, won a Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance at the 2024 ceremony. There’s incredible dual guitar work on the record’s final offering, “Inamorata,” which is Metallica’s longest song at just over 11 minutes.
3
‘Hardwired… to Self-Destruct’ (2016)
Hardwired… to Self-Destruct was released in 2016, eight years after Death Magnetic. It feels like a continuation of their 2008 effort with a progressive feel and an aggressive chip on its shoulder. It is filled with heavy riffs full of attitude and slightly more concise arrangements, while still being very ambitious. The LP marks the quartet’s sixth straight effort to debut at number one on the Billboard Album chart. It’s a bit more lyrically diverse and has a better overall sound than Death Magnetic.
“Hardwired” is a hard-hitting track that is the shortest on the album at just over three minutes. On the other side of the spectrum, the longest track is the eight-minute “Halo on Fire,” a crushing tune with incredible twin guitar harmony lines. “Atlas Rise!” is another stand out with its Iron Maiden-inspired harmony guitar work. “ManUNkind” has a unique verse riff in 3/4 time that switches seamlessly back and forth to 4/4 throughout the song, creating musical tension and release. “Murder One” is a head-banging mid-tempo tribute to Lemmy Kilmister, the frontman from Motörhead, who passed away in 2015. “Moth Into Flame” and “Spit Out The Bone” are two relentless thrash songs that harken back to Metallica’s early days.
2
‘Load’ (1996)
Metallica followed up the most successful heavy metal LP of all time with Load, its longest album at just under 80 minutes. Musically, it features more blues-based riffs with alternative, country and groove-oriented influences. The band was inspired by grunge and alternative music that was peaking at the time, while leaning into southern rock territory on “Ain’t My Bitch,” “Poor Twisted Me,” “Mama Said,” “2 X 4,” “The House That Jack Built,” and “Hero of the Day.”
The effort sounds more hard rock than thrash, with a lot of mid-tempo songs, but does maintain Metallica’s heavy edge and attitude. It was the first album Kirk Hammett recorded rhythm guitar parts, creating a more breathable sound. “Until It Sleeps” was the highly anticipated debut single off the record. The classic peaked at number ten on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, the band’s highest charting single to date. The hyper-stylistic video, directed by Samual Bayer, won Best Hard Rock Video at the 1996 MTV Video Music Awards and showed off the quartet’s new alternative look with short hair, surprising and upsetting some longtime fans. “King Nothing,” “Bleeding Me,” and “The Outlaw Torn” are the most complex tracks and fan favorites that still resonate. Load debuted at number one on the Billboard Album chart, selling over 680-thousand copies in its first week, marking the best sales week of the year and Metallica’s best debut in history.
Metallica’s 1991 self-titled album, widely referred to as The Black Album, is the band’s best-selling album, shifting over 31 million units worldwide. The effort produced five hit singles, including the Grammy-winning “Enter Sandman,” “The Unforgiven,” “Wherever I May Roam,” “Sad But True,” and the first true Metalliballad, “Nothing Else Matters.” The group refined its sound on the record, focusing on slower grooves, succinct arrangements and powerful vocal performances. The album broke down barriers between heavy metal, rock and pop music fans. It crossed over to the masses with substantial radio play and the music videos were on high rotation on MTV.
Metallica toured for over three and a half years in support of the record, playing over 400 concerts in 30 countries, including the group’s first shows in the Soviet Union, Indonesia, the Philippines, Singapore and Thailand. The no-skip classic is the best-selling metal release of all-time. It topped the charts in 10 countries and remained on the Billboard Album chart for over 700 weeks, peaking at number one for four consecutive weeks in August and September 1991. The Black Album was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2009. The LP had an indelible impact on Gen X and is still very relevant today with the ubiquitous guitar riff from “Enter Sandman” played at every sporting event and on classic rock radio in perpetuity.
Who’s Your Perfect Classic Rock Band?
Classic Albums: Metallica – Metallica
- Release Date
-
November 6, 2001
- Runtime
-
50 minutes
- Director
-
Matthew Longfellow
- Producers
-
Nick De Grunwald, Bous De Jong
-
James Hetfield
Self – Vocals, Rhythm Guitar
-
Kirk Hammett
Self – Guitar
-
Jason Newsted
Self – Bass
-
Before her sudden death at age 36, Hayden Panettiere was a proud mom of one.
The Heroes and Nashville alum welcomed daughter Kaya, now 11, in 2014 with then-fiancé Wladimir Klitschko, a former professional boxer. (The couple split in 2018.)
Earlier this year, Panettiere opened up about her heartbreaking decision to give up custody of Kaya after battling postpartum depression and an addiction to alcohol and opioids.
“It was a nightmare,” Panettiere exclusively told Us of the day she signed over custody of Kaya to Klitschko, 50. “It was a living nightmare, and I felt so out of control. There’s nothing that I could do about it.”
Sharing their stories. Reese Witherspoon, Behati Prinsloo and more celebrity moms have spoken openly about their postpartum depression. Witherspoon had “a different experience” after each of her children’s births, she told Jameela Jamil in April 2020 on her “I Weigh” podcast. “[With] one kid, I had kind of mild postpartum, and [with] one kid, I […]
Scroll down for more details about Panettiere’s motherhood journey and her relationship with her daughter.
Hayden Panettiere Welcomed Kaya in 2014
Panettiere’s rep confirmed to Us at the time that Kaya was born on December 9, 2014. She weighed 7 pounds, 14 ounces, and measured 20 inches.
Panettiere’s Struggles With Postpartum Depression
“I had it like all planned out in my head, and as the plans just collapsed, the postpartum came, and I was completely out of control, and suddenly I was this … I was nowhere near the mom that I had sworn to myself that one day I was going to be and that was devastating,” Panettiere told Us earlier this year.
Hayden Panettiere reflected on “good times” in her final Instagram post prior to her death. “Good times and good friends @randallslavin ✨,” the Nashville alum captioned a black-and-white photo of herself with photographer and director Randall Slavin. The July 27 post captured Panettiere winking at the camera while Slavin, 56, wrapped his arm around her. […]
“That was devastating,” she added. “[It] was heartbreaking. I’m such a perfectionist in so many ways that being at least a good mother was just so, so important to me. And such a crushing blow when I was incapable of being, an even semi-decent mom, in my mind.”
Relinquishing Custody of Kaya
Kaya predominantly lives in Ukraine with her father after Panettiere sought treatment for her depression and addiction.
“There’s so much of me that wanted to fight, but I had to ultimately take into consideration the most important thing, which was how this was all going to affect my daughter,” the actress exclusively told Us in May. “Sometimes that means having to do the hardest things in the world, for their sake.”
Coparenting With Wladimir Klitschko
“Wlad is an incredible father, and I know he was doing what he felt was best for our daughter,” Panettiere said of her relationship with her ex in May.
She added, “I’m so grateful for Wlad. We’re very close, and have had a deep friendship, along with a relationship, since I met him when I was 19. So to see that we still have this bond and the ability to coparent and show our daughter [that] even though we’re not together, doesn’t mean that there’s a lack of love here, and it doesn’t mean that you’re unsafe.”
Hayden Panettiere’s family is mourning the actress’ tragic death at age 36. “It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic passing of our beloved Hayden,” her father, Skip Panettiere, said in a statement to Us on Sunday, August 16. “She was an incredible light and a force of nature who brought immeasurable love […]
Panettiere’s Recent Relationship With Kaya
In May, Panettiere gushed to Us that Kaya was “just an incredible gift.”
“She’s otherworldly and so kind and so fierce and surrounded by good people, and it’s incredible for me to be able to watch her thrive in areas that I struggled with growing up,” she continued. “She’s just the best thing, all the best parts of me and Wlad.”
During a May appearance on the “On Purpose With Jay Shetty” podcast, the Scream 4 actress reiterated that Kaya “in no way feels abandoned,” saying, “That’s something I’ve made sure to stay on top of and be very aware of.”
“She’s an incredible little girl. So happy. [She] speaks five languages and rides horses and knows that she has two parents that love her,” Panettiere explained. “I know in my heart that she feels supported. I have an incredible relationship with her. I travel [to see her] as much as I can. We have a really intense, incredible bond, and I’m very grateful for that.”
“There’s been a common misconception that I just gave up my child, when that couldn’t be farther from the truth,” she said.
It’s been 25 years since Band of Brothers premiered on HBO, helping to usher in a new era of prestige television. The World War II-set miniseries reinvented what could be accomplished on the small screen, and it still stands today as a monumental achievement. It’s still relevant today, despite its subject matter now being over 80 years removed from the modern day, argues star Neal McDonough. Collider’s Meredith Loftus caught up with McDonough at Televerse, a Television Academy festival celebrating all things television, over the weekend.
Based on the non-fiction bestseller by Stephen E. Ambroseand produced by Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg, Band of Brothers chronicled the exploits of Easy Company, a unit of the 101st Airborne Division, which saw heavy action in Europe during the last years of World War II. The series would achieve universal acclaim and is still considered one of the greatest TV series of all time. The steely-eyed McDonough had a starring role on the series as Lynn “Buck” Compton, a lieutenant in Easy Company who would go on to become a noted prosecutor after the war’s end. He thinks that Band of Brothers‘ continued relevance is due to the window it gives to the world of the 1940s:
“It really talks about the Greatest Generation. Those guys didn’t complain about anything. Those guys…you know, talk about [Compton], jumping out of an airplane, losing his leg bag, having to find food, having to take weapons off dead bodies, having to figure out whatever it took to help us win the war, and that’s what those guys did.”
McDonough came to know Compton, who lived to see the production of Band of Brothers, and found that he “wouldn’t complain about anything.” Now, he finds that “we all complain so much,” and that we’ve become entitled without facing the struggles of the past. Generally, McDonough believes Americans, as a people, should heed the words of John F. Kennedy (a WWII veteran himself), given in his 1961 inaugural address: “Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country.”
Where Can Neal McDonough Be Seen Next?
McDonough can currently be seen on the Paramount+ series Tulsa King, where he plays crooked businessman Cal Thresher alongside Sylvester Stallone; Season 4 wrapped production earlier this year. He can also currently be seen in the horror thriller Twisted alongside Djimon Hounsou and Lauren LaVera, and this fall, he’ll star as Jimmy Stewart‘s father in the biopic Jimmy.
Band of Brothers is now streaming on HBO Max. Stay tuned to Collider for future updates.
- Release Date
-
2001 – 2001
- Network
-
HBO
- Directors
-
David Frankel, David Nutter, Mikael Salomon, Phil Alden Robinson, Richard Loncraine, Tom Hanks
- Writers
-
Bruce C. McKenna, Graham Yost, John Orloff
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We get it: Sneakers are an easy pick on ‘I don’t know what to wear’ days. However, rich girls are discovering a few chic, polished alternatives that are just as versatile, but are ten times classier. Somehow, they start at only $9!
These sleek slingback flats, timeless loafers, comfy clogs and more make you appear instantly put together, even if you’re running out the door. Our trendy favorites carry you straight from errands to boardrooms (and summer to fall), so you’ll really get your money’s worth. Scroll on to meet your new wear-everywhere shoes!
7 Trendy Rich-Girl Shoes — Starting at $9
1. Sassy Slingbacks: ‘Sophisticated’ is an understatement when it comes to these pointed-toe slingbacks. They take even a tee and jeans to old money heights.
2. Miss Mary: If you think you’re seeing woven Mary Janes everywhere, that’s because you probably are. These breathable wonders are enhanced with a cushioned insole, so they might replace your sneakers for good.
3. Must-Have Mules: Not only are these floral mules totally rich, but they’re also effortless to slip on. The low-profile shoes have a vegan leather material and gold hardware that make them look much pricier than they are.
4. Luxe Loafers: When in doubt, you can’t go wrong with these leather loafers. They go with everything that sneakers do, and with 15 colors to choose from, you’re destined to find your perfect match.
In a style rut? We totally feel that. It’s hard to know exactly what fashion finds to wear as we transition from summer to fall but it’s not impossible! One of our favorite ways to get inspiration is by looking at what other people are shopping, and Amazon’s ‘Current Obsessions’ page makes it incredibly easy […]
5. Cute Clogs: Clogs might not sound elevated but just wait until you see these easy everyday shoes. They give any outfit a California-cool edge.
6. Oh Yes, Oxfords: ‘Oxford,’ ‘jazz shoe,’ ‘sneakerina,’ whatever you want to call it, this shoe style has been selling out ever since Nicole Kidman wore it for the Wimbledon Championships.
7. Beautiful Ballet: Everyone needs go-to flats, and this ballet pair is yours. It features a classic round-toe silhouette, soft suede material and a plush insole that carries shoppers through errands, in-office days and beyond.
UsNow Summer Sale Alert: These Chic Fashion Finds are over 30% off – Plus Free Shipping
Welcome to summer with our biggest sale of the year. This summer’s chicest dresses, tops and swimsuits are all over 30% + free shipping. Inventory is limited so hurry before they’re gone.
Chris Pratt has been quite busy lately doing some plumbing jobs with his Italian brother and saving the world, as well as being a cat. But remember, the man is an action hero first and foremost (okay, maybe he’s Andy Dwyer first) and he’s officially returning to one of his grittiest and bone-crunching roles as Prime Video’s epic globe-trotting action series is finally returning after a five year wait.
Prime Video has unveiled the first images from The Terminal List Season 2, offering a new look at Chris Pratt as James Reece ahead of the show’s return on October 21, 2026. The Terminal List proved an enormous success when it debuted in 2022, eventually spawning the Taylor Kitsch-led prequel The Terminal List: Dark Wolf and establishing an entire action franchise for Prime Video. The official synopsis states:
From the best-selling novels of the same name, The Terminal List centers on Navy SEAL Commander James Reece (Chris Pratt) as he battles unknown conspiratorial forces seeking to upend the world order. This season comes from Jack Carr’s second novel, True Believer, where he puts James Reece on a journey of violent redemption, finding a new purpose after finishing his list. The psychological revenge story of Season One expands into a globe-trotting espionage thriller, taking Reece across the Indian Ocean, Southern and Northern Africa, the Middle East, and Europe.
The series is again placing major importance on military authenticity, too, with former Navy SEAL Jared Shaw and former Army Ranger Max Adams overseeing the action and making sure everything is militarily up to scratch. Combat veterans are also involved throughout the production as writers, performers, technical advisors and directors, and this includes Warfare filmmaker and former Navy SEAL Ray Mendoza, who directs during Season 2.
Who Stars in ‘The Terminal List’ Season 2?
Pratt is joined by Tom Hopper (The Umbrella Academy) as Raife Hastings, Constance Wu (Crazy Rich Asians) as Katie Buranek, Dar Salim (The Covenant) as Mohammed Farooq, Luke Hemsworth (Westworld) as Jules Landry, Gabriel Luna (The Last of Us) as newcomer Freddy Strain, Costa Ronin (The Americans), Olga Kurylenko (Quantum of Solace) and Yul Vazquez (Severance). Martin Sensmeier, Arnold Vosloo and Shiraz Tzarfati round out the ensemble.
All eight episodes of The Terminal List Season 2 premiere exclusively on Prime Video on October 21, 2026.
The Terminal List
- Release Date
-
June 30, 2022
- Network
-
Prime Video
- Showrunner
-
David DiGilio
- Directors
-
Fred Toye, Sylvain White, Antoine Fuqua, Ellen Kuras, M.J. Bassett
-
-
Jeanne Tripplehorn
Secretary Hartley
Hayden Panettiere’s family is mourning the actress’ tragic death at age 36.
“It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic passing of our beloved Hayden,” her father, Skip Panettiere, said in a statement to Us on Sunday, August 16. “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.”
The actress got her start in Hollywood at a young age, starring on One Life to Live from 1994 to 1997.
Hayden’s only sibling, Jansen Panettiere, joined the family business in the early 2000s.
The brother-sister duo later acted together in 2004’s Tiger Cruise and 2005’s Racing Stripes.
As Hayden’s career continued to sky-rocket — including leading roles on Heroes and Nashville and in the Scream franchise — her family life also made headlines. In 2008, Hayden’s parents turned heads when news broke that her father, Skip, allegedly struck his then-wife, Lesley Vogel.
Skip, who shares both Hayden and Jansen with Vogel, pleaded no contest after being charged with misdemeanor spousal battery. He was given two-years’ probation, had to enroll in a domestic violence treatment program and was ordered to pay $400 to the California’s domestic violence fund.
Vogel later filed for divorce in 2012.
Hayden began a family of her own in 2014 when she and then-fiancé Wladimir Klitschko welcomed daughter Kaya. The pair split four years later.
The Bring It On: All or Nothing star’s family once again was in the news in February 2023 when multiple outlets reported that her younger brother, Jansen, died at age 28.
Scroll down to learn more about Hayden’s family:
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