Today is comedian Ron White’s birthday and I found an interesting article about him on Facts.net detailing many things I didn’t know about Tater Salad!

From Facts.net:

The famous comedian, Ron White, was born on December 18, 1956, in Fritch, Texas.

Ron White, known for his dry sense of humor and trademark cigar, entered the world in the small town of Fritch, Texas. His birthdate falls on December 18, 1956, making him a Sagittarius.

Ron White once worked as a tequila salesman before becoming a comedian.

Before his rise to fame in the comedy world, Ron White had an interesting career as a tequila salesman. Little did he know that his future would be filled with jokes and laughter instead of liquor sales.

He gained widespread recognition after appearing on the Blue Collar Comedy Tour alongside Jeff Foxworthy, Larry the Cable Guy, and Bill Engvall.

The Blue Collar Comedy Tour catapulted Ron White to stardom. Joining forces with other talented comedians like Jeff Foxworthy, Larry the Cable Guy, and Bill Engvall, the tour became a huge success, gaining a massive fan base across the country.

Ron White is a Grammy-nominated artist.

His comedy album, “Drunk in Public,” earned him a Grammy nomination for Best Comedy Album in This recognition further solidified his status as one of the leading comedians in the industry.

He has released multiple successful comedy specials.

Ron White has treated his fans to a series of hilarious comedy specials, including “You Can’t Fix Stupid,” “Behavioral Problems,” and “A Little Unprofessional.” Each special showcases his unique storytelling style and clever wit.

Ron White is an avid cigar enthusiast.

It’s no secret that Ron White is rarely seen without a cigar in hand. His love for cigars has become an integral part of his on-stage persona, adding to his charm and distinct image as a comedian.

He was a member of the United States Navy.

Prior to his comedic career, Ron White served in the United States Navy. His time in the military influenced his perspective and provided him with a wealth of experiences that he incorporates into his comedy material.

Ron White has a passion for philanthropy.

Aside from his successful career in comedy, Ron White is known for his philanthropic endeavors. He actively supports various charities and has a particular interest in helping veterans and their families.

He is known for his catchphrase, “You can’t fix stupid.”

Ron White’s catchphrase, “You can’t fix stupid,” has become iconic among his fans. It reflects his humorous take on life’s absurdities and has resonated with audiences around the world.

Ron White has made guest appearances on popular television shows.

Aside from his comedy specials, Ron White has made memorable guest appearances on shows like “Reno 911!” and “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.” His comedic talent shines through in these appearances, leaving audiences in stitches.

Ron White is a New York Times bestselling author.

In addition to his success in stand-up comedy, Ron White has also proven himself as a talented writer. His book, “I Had the Right to Remain Silent… But I Didn’t Have the Ability,” became a New York Times bestseller, showcasing his wit on the written page.

He has his own brand of tequila.

Building on his past experience as a tequila salesman, Ron White decided to create his own brand of tequila. Known as “Number Juan Tequila,” it has received praise from tequila enthusiasts and comedy fans alike.

Ron White has a deep passion for classic cars.

Beyond his love for cigars and tequila, Ron White is an avid collector of classic cars. He appreciates the history, craftsmanship, and timeless beauty found in vintage automobiles.

He has performed for US troops stationed overseas.

Ron White has shown his support for the military by entertaining US troops stationed overseas. His performances bring laughter and joy to those who serve and protect our country.

Ron White is a member of the prestigious “Blue Collar Comedy” fraternity.

As one of the founding members of the “Blue Collar Comedy Tour,” Ron White is part of a comedic fraternity that includes legendary acts like Jeff Foxworthy and Larry the Cable Guy. Together, they have left a lasting impact on the world of comedy.

He is known for his distinctive style with a mix of storytelling and hilarious punchlines.

Ron White’s comedy style is characterized by his unique blend of storytelling and well-crafted punchlines. His ability to captivate audiences with his engaging narratives and comedic timing sets him apart as one of the greatest comedians of our time.

Ron White has sold out theaters and arenas worldwide.

With his immense popularity, Ron White has performed in sold-out theaters and arenas across the globe. Fans eagerly flock to his shows to experience his comedic genius firsthand.

He is a proud father of a son named Marshall.

Away from the spotlight, Ron White cherishes his role as a father. He takes pride in his son, Marshall, and values the importance of family in his life.

These 18 unbelievable facts about Ron White showcase his journey from tequila salesman to Grammy-nominated comedian. With his unique style, sharp wit, and unwavering charm, Ron White has left an indelible mark on the world of comedy. From his iconic catchphrase to his successful comedy specials, he continues to entertain audiences around the world.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Ron White is truly an extraordinary individual with a fascinating life story and remarkable achievements to his name. From his humble beginnings in Texas to becoming one of the most successful comedians in the entertainment industry, his journey is a testament to hard work, perseverance, and a unique sense of humor.

With his distinctive storytelling style and quick wit, Ron White has left an indelible mark on the world of comedy. Whether it’s his iconic “Tater Salad” joke or his uncanny ability to captivate audiences with his hilarious anecdotes, he never fails to entertain and amuse.

As we delve deeper into the life of Ron White, we uncover a treasure trove of unbelievable facts that only add to his legend. From his love for scotch and cigars to his unexpected foray into the music world, his multifaceted personality leaves fans constantly intrigued and eager for more.

With a stellar career spanning several decades, Ron White continues to shine bright and bring laughter to millions around the globe. His unique brand of humor and magnetic stage presence make him a true icon in the world of comedy.

So, the next time you find yourself in need of a good laugh, turn to Ron White and prepare to be amazed by his extraordinary talent and undeniable charm.

SOURCE: FACTS.NET

Today is Tim Conway’s birthday (December 15, 1933 – May 14, 2019) and I thought I’d bring an article about The Carol Burnett Show.

Carol’s ear tug was a message to her grandma.

Burnett’s famous ear tug, which she used to sign off at the end of each show, was a way of telling her grandmother, “Hello, I love you.” Burnett’s grandmother passed away while the series was still on air but Burnett continued to tug her ear as a tribute to her.

Carol Burnett and Vicki Lawrence were the longest running cast members.

The two were the only series regulars to stay with the program throughout its 11 seasons.

A wardrobe malfunction caused Ms. Wiggins’s trademark walk.

Burnett has said that Ms. Wiggins’s signature waddle was because the skirt she was given was too big — Burnett walked that way to keep it from falling off.

Vicki Lawrence joined the cast at 18.

Lawrence, a high schooler at the time, wrote a fan letter to Burnett, prompting the sketch-comedy queen to attend a ‘Miss Fireball’ contest Lawrence was competing in. Lawrence won, Burnett was called up to crown her on stage, and eventually asked the teen to audition for the role of her kid sister. Lawrence became Burnett’s protégée, best known for the role of “mama” Thelma Harper.

Each show was taped twice before airing.

Each weekly episode was taped twice in front of different audiences. The best parts were edited together, but only two takes meant that even “flubbed” lines would sometimes make the cut.

Tim Conway was always trying to make Harvey Korman break character.

Tim Conway was known for improvising and deliberately trying to get other cast members to laugh during taping. Korman fell for Conway’s tactics nearly every time.

Lawrence was a one-hit wonder.

Lawrence had a hit single, “The Night the Lights Went Out in Georgia,” that reached #1 on the Billboard charts in 1973. A lot of people didn’t realize that the singer and the comedienne were one and the same.

The print dress Burnett always wore as Eunice was a thrift-store find.

The “family” sketch called for Eunice to wear a “Tennessee Williams”-type dress. Costume designer Bob Mackie found the perfect 1930s frock in a thrift shop.

Dick van Dyke was a flop.

Harvey Korman left after the 10th season and executives brought on Dick van Dyke as a replacement. But audiences didn’t love the chemistry (or lack thereof) between van Dyke and Burnett, Conway and Lawrence, so he left the show after three months.

Conway turned down a Mr. Tudball spin-off.

Conway was offered the starring role in a Mr. Tudball spin-off in the 1980s but declined because he didn’t see much storyline potential—and because Burnett wouldn’t be playing Ms. Wiggins.

The show’s musical numbers are hard to come by.

Most of the show’s musical skits have not aired since the original network broadcast because of licensing issues.

Carol Burnett’s husband wrote the show’s theme song.

Joe Hamilton, executive producer for the show and Carol Burnett’s husband at the time, wrote the theme song. The couple divorced in 1984 after 21 years together.

SOURCE: COUNTRYLIVING.COM

Today is GA/FL’s 80^th birthday and when I think of her, I think of a Steel Magnolia—Clairee to be specific.  Strong, Southern, gorgeous, with a quick wit—that’s Clairee AND GA/FL.

I found an article about the movie and wanted to share some interesting facts about it.

From: Southern Living

When playwright Robert Harling wrote Steel Magnolias back in 1987—his poignant tribute to his sister’s journey to motherhood and eventual death from diabetes complications—he undoubtedly had no idea that decades later, people would still be quoting it regularly. 

Harling’s witty play had a successful off-Broadway run. Then TriStar Pictures bought the movie rights and Harling edited the script, transforming the play into a movie. The 1989 film had an all-star cast that included Sally Field, Dolly Parton, Shirley MacLaine, Daryl Hannah, Olympia Dukakis, and Julia Roberts.

Since then, the Steel Magnolias play had a four-month run on Broadway in 2005, and the movie was remade by Lifetime in 2012, this time starring Queen Latifah. 

But Harling’s clever words like “I’m not crazy … I’ve just been in a very bad mood for 40 years” and “If you can’t say anything nice about anybody, come sit by me” have become fodder for jokes with family around the table or friends in the salon. More so, the 1989 film’s powerful portrait of family, hope, loss, grief, and happiness, and strong Southern friendships has become a smash hit that has lasted through the ages. The film is a Southern staple with something for everyone who loves to laugh, cry, or eat armadillo cake. Here are 17 things you might not know about Steel Magnolias.

Steel Magnolias Was Based On A True Story

Actor and writer Robert Harling wrote the play based on the true story of his sister, Susan Harling Robinson, who died from complications with diabetes. “She was the only person that had been with me for forever,” Harling told Southern Living. “When we lost her, when she died in 1985, I was really in a very bad state with her loss.” He began writing the play after learning his brother-in-law remarried months after his sister’s death.

The Movie Offered Healing For Harling’s Family

Harling wanted his mother to leave the set when they filmed Julia Roberts’ death scene, but his mother insisted on staying so she could see Julia get up and walk away after the director yelled cut. “I said, ‘I can’t believe you put yourself through that,'” Harling recalled saying to his mother in an interview with the Huffington Post. “But Julia had become so special to my parents. She took some peace with that.”

The Film Featured Real People

The nurses and other hospital staff seen in Julia Roberts’ life-support scenes were actual medical professionals who tended to Harling’s sister in her final days. Harling himself played the minister who presided over Shelby’s wedding and funeral.

It Took 10 Days To Write

“The events that inspired it were so powerful that, after I found the story arena, it just poured out into my typewriter in a 24/7 tsunami of Southernness,” Harling told Garden & Gun about the speedy writing process. “I had no idea what I’d written. I asked the first person I gave it to if it even looked like a play. I wasn’t really sure. All I knew was that I felt it portrayed my sister’s life and spirit accurately, and that was enough for me.”

It Was Originally A Short Story

Harling originally wanted to turn his sister’s life into a short story, but it quickly turned into a play because he wanted its Southernness to come out. “I was an actor, so I thought, well, I know what a script looks like, and I know what dialogue looks like,” Harling told Southern Living. “I’m just gonna try to write this as a play. So, I did.”

Harling’s Sister Inspired More Than Just Shelby

When Harling hit a patch of writer’s block while working on the play, he channeled his sister for one of its most famous scenes. “I said, ‘What would Susan do?’ And what Susan would do would be outrageous,” he told Today. “She would do something completely inappropriate and totally out of the box.” The result is that at Shelby’s funeral, when her mother M’Lynn is understandably distraught, Clairee cheekily suggests that M’Lynn take out her grief by hitting Ouiser. “Here, hit this!” Clairee says in one of the film’s memorable moments.

Other Actresses Were Considered To Play Shelby

Originally, Winona Ryder was considered for the part of Shelby, but producers decided she was too young. Instead, they settled on Meg Ryan, who committed to the role before dropping out for a little film called When Harry Met Sally. That’s when Julia Roberts stepped in.

“We brought her in, and she was Julia Roberts, so she was magic. She just walked into the room and lit it up, and I thought, that’s my sister,” Harling told Southern Living. (Coincidentally, Roberts later passed on the lead for You’ve Got Mail, which went to Ryan, Roberts told Andy Cohen in 2023.)

Another fun fact about the role of Shelby? When Nicole Kidman was starting out as an actress in Australia, one of her earliest roles was Shelby in the stage version of Steel Magnolias.

Hollywood Royalty Wanted In

Elizabeth Taylor went to see Steel Magnolias during its off-Broadway run, and thanks to her rave review, Hollywood legend Bette Davis called up Harling and started a push to be cast in the film as Ouiser. She also thought that Katharine Hepburn could make a fantastic Clairee and Elizabeth Taylor would be perfect as M’Lynn. In an interview with the Huffington Post, Harling said that Davis even invited him to tea to convince him that she was right for the role. The role, of course, went to Shirley MacLaine.

Harling Wrote Truvy For Another Actress

While Dolly Parton was perfect in the role of beauty shop owner Truvy, the part was actually written for someone else entirely—Margo Martindale. Harling and Martindale were friends in real life, and he wrote the role for her to play. She originated the role of Truvy in the play’s off-Broadway debut.

It Was Filmed In The Author’s Hometown

Playwright Robert Harling grew up in Natchitoches, Louisiana, and insisted on filming there. His decision had a huge impact on the town, which can still be felt today. “For everyone who has seen the movie outside of Natchitoches, it is synonymous with the movie,” Natchitoches Convention and Tourism Bureau former Executive Director Arlene Gould told The Shreveport Times. “It had a tremendous impact on the tourism trade and on our community.” You can even take a self-guided tour of the filming locations.

Steel Magnolias Led To Soapdish

After long days on set in Natchitoches, Louisiana, the cast would gather together to play games and chat. One night, according to the Huffington Post, Harling asked each actress to name the role she’d most like to play. Sally Field said she always played “really noble, earnest women that wear crummy clothes. For once I’d like to play a b—h that gets to wear nice clothes.” Harling loved the idea and started to think about a seeming sweetheart who was truly devilish. Soon after, Soapdish was born, and Field got to play the role of her dreams as an aging soap opera star who plots to ruin her co-star’s career in the 1991 film.

There Was A Steel Magnolias TV Show

CBS aired a pilot episode of a Steel Magnolias TV series in August 1990, but the show never made it to a full series. Perhaps CBS should try again, though. When Lifetime created its 2012 version of the film starring Queen Latifah, Phylicia Rashad, and Condola Rashad, it was the channel’s third-most-watched telecast ever.

The Film Sparked A Real-Life Romance

The sparks you saw between Roberts and her on-screen beau, Dylan McDermott, were real. When filming began on Steel Magnolias, Roberts was dating actor Liam Neeson, her co-star in 1988’s Satisfaction. Then, she allegedly broke up with Neeson to date—and eventually become engaged to—McDermott. They never made it to the altar, though. Their relationship ended in 1990.

Visitors Can Stay At The Steel Magnolia House

The historic Natchitoches house where Steel Magnolias was filmed is now a bed-and-breakfast and has been renamed The Steel Magnolia House. Guests can stay in rooms named after characters like Clairee, Ouiser, and Annelle.

The Christmas Scenes Were Filmed In August

Southern summers can be scorchers, but that didn’t stop the cast and extras from donning their finest Christmas sweaters and winter hats to film the Natchitoches Christmas festival scenes. It might have been 100 degrees during filming, but it sure looked like December, thanks to the magic of the movies.

The Movie Has Inspired Others To Donate

Harling told Today that a fan reached out to tell him that watching the film inspired them to donate a kidney to a neighbor in need. While Oscar nominations and Tony Awards are undoubtedly exciting, inspiring someone to save a life sounds like a truly incredible reward for a playwright.

Shirley MacLaine Knew The Movie Was Special

It was while filming one of those blazing hot Christmas festival scenes that Shirley MacLaine turned to playwright Robert Harling and told him she thought the film was important.

“I think it revealed all the intricacies and the diversity of women’s friendships,” MacLaine later told Southern Living, reflecting on the movie’s long-lasting legacy during its 25th anniversary.

“And we experienced that on the set. We made very good friends that are still there for us,” she said. “I think that, especially now, I think it’s still resonating because we know we find comfort in each other and we can be honest and we can be cruel, and we can be funny. And we can be sarcastic and also know that we’re there for each other always. So I think that’s something we long for in this culture.”

Sally Field Wanted To Do The Movie Because Of One Scene

There’s a dramatic funeral scene in which Sally Field’s character M’Lynn “skates back and forth through the five stages of grief in roughly five minutes,” writes Jen Chaney for Vulture. In an interview with Chaney, Field says that “humdinger of a scene” was “the crux of the film” and one of the main reasons she chose to take on the role. “It is about loss and sadness and grief and rage, but ultimately it’s about friendship,” she says. “It’s about these women who hang with her. Every step of the journey she takes in that speech — she walks up and down the dirt road of the cemetery and they’re right there with her, feeling it with her, and ultimately they make her laugh. It’s about the very best of what women friends are.”

Director Herbert Ross Was Particularly Hard On One Cast Member

In her interview with Jen Chaney for Vulture, Sally Field remembers director Herbert “Herb” Ross giving her “the freedom to do whatever” but being “very, very, very hard on Julia.” Though she says the cast members “would all rally around Julia, because she was the baby,” Ross “just picked on her.” “It was awful,” she says. Field specifically remembers castmate Dolly Parton turning right back on Ross with “the most vulgar humor you ever heard.” To be a fly on that wall!

SOURCE: SOUTHERNLIVING.COM

GA/FL I hope you have a fantastic day!!

Glasshouse Fragrances ‘Night Before Christmas’ Dancing Sugar Plums Interior Fragrance Gift Set

“If you have a holiday party — or seven — to attend, finding a non-cliché hostess gift can get tricky (not everyone likes the seasonal scent of pine trees or cranberries!). Nothing about these Glasshouse candles is ordinary: From the exquisitely designed, super evocative jars to the premium fragrance blends, they all ooze that glam ‘wow’ factor. The Dancing Sugar Plums scent is my favorite (a subtle fruity floral with just a hint of spice), but honestly, everything in its Holiday Jewels collection is a winner… and all fabulously packaged, too, so they’re ready to go.” — Eunice Lucero-Lee, Senior Editor, Reviews

Graza “Drizzle” Extra Virgin Olive Oil

“I put this on literally every hot meal I’ve made in the last year. You don’t cook with it; you just drizzle it on top of whatever food you make once you’re finished with it. It makes anything you’ve just made, whether it’s just eggs and toast or homemade pasta, notably punchier and more flavorful than without it. If you’re an aspiring chef or just a lazy cook like me, throw this olive oil on your food and let your taste buds take it from there.” — TP

Cozy Earth Women’s Studio Jogger

“These have become my go-to work-from-home sweatpants. I literally look forward to doing laundry because it means I can wear these pants again. Thanks to their modal fabric, they’re SO soft, and the pants come in three cute colors. It is on the pricier side at $175 for a pair, but I think they would make for a nice splurgy gift. I could totally see this being a great Christmas gift this year.” — Micki Wagner, former Commerce Editor

Repos Production ‘7 Wonders’ Board Game

“If you love Catan or any sort of adventure/civilization type of board game, this is for you. Not only is this one of the prettiest board games I own and always get compliments on, but it is so much fun! I’ve played this with my teen niece and nephew as well as my twentysomething friends, and they have all enjoyed it. Although the rules are a bit to digest in the beginning, once you get through that first practice round, you’re good to go. The game has a good balance of interacting with other players and focusing mainly on building out your individual “wonder.” The best part is you don’t know who has won until the very end when you count up your final victory points. Add this to your game nights!” — Saba Ahmed, Assistant Commerce Photo Editor

Huckberry Vintage Wash Quarter-Zip Sweatshirt

“Who doesn’t like cozy fleece in the winter? An old hoodie is fine for around the house but I don’t like going out in them. This quarter-neck zip fleece is slightly more dressed up while still being warm and comfortable. It’s cut in a relaxed fit and has been washed for softness. The sweatshirts are also made in the U.S. from domestic cotton.” — Danny Perez, Commerce Editor

Crate & Barrel Monochrome No. 5 Rain Reed Diffuser

“I discovered these candles and diffusers while perusing the cereal bowl section at a Crate & Barrel and have not been able to get them off my mind since. Every other rain-scented fragrance I’ve encountered (and being a perfumery graduate, I’ve come across a lot) has not been able to evoke the fresh, cozy melancholy that this cypress-forward one does. It’s clean, slightly green, almost Scandi; it also has just the right amount of vanilla to keep you hooked AF. Also, no notes on that super-giftable minimalist aesthetic. Get your fave hostess the candle, the diffuser, anything in this scent family, really (a close second: Citron), and watch them genuinely squeal in delight.” — ELL

Beats Flex Wireless Earbuds

“These wired (yes, wired) earbuds deliver high-quality sound via Bluetooth, and unlike most wireless earbuds, are very difficult to lose. Simply pop one bud in each ear, and drape the wire connecting them across your neck. It’s unobtrusive and gives your earbuds a natural place to sit when you pop them out. Better still, the backs of both buds are magnetized, so when you bring them together, they send a signal to your phone to pause your music or podcast. For a friend or family member who’s misplacing things constantly, these will save them from regularly having to replace expensive wireless earbuds in the future.” — JG

Edifier W830NB Wireless Over Ear Headphones

“In a year when the market for budget-friendly wireless headphones reached a higher level, the under-$80 (before frequent discounts) Edifier W830NB cans stood out by delivering more value per dollar than any rival. The over-ear headphones impressed me with high-quality sound, support for immersive spatial audio, strong noise cancellation, and fantastic battery life. Combined with their elegant design and comfy fit, these qualities consistently made me feel like I was using a costlier set of headphones.” — SV

Nécessaire The Body Wash Olibanum

“True story: I’m a Nécessaire fanatic and promise you need the brand’s latest drop. The Body Wash quickly became my go-to shower gel since its launch in 2019, and the 2024 upgrade proves that good things don’t need to be fussy. There are currently three new scents to choose from, but I gravitate toward the Olibanum version. The light blend of frankincense, vanilla, cassis buds, and lily of the valley ensures my shower time smells like a sweet and spicy spa day. The Olibanum Body Wash also now contains vitamin C for a brighter complexion, antioxidant-rich vitamin E, and a trio of enzymes to improve uneven skin tone. It’s also the perfect treat for someone who is hard-to-please like a mother figure — my mom is currently obsessed with her bottle, so I’m confident yours will be, too.” — Nicole Saunders, Beauty Editor

Silky Professional Big Boy Folding Saw

“Contestants on the History Channel TV show Alone often bring a larger version of this saw as one of their ten allotted items, but most of us aren’t trying to survive on our own for three months in the arctic. For those with property to maintain or go camping, a high-quality folding saw like the Silky Big Boy will exceed expectations. It folds to a compact size that can be safely carried in a backpack and delivers quick and efficient cuts (on the pull stroke) so you can quickly assemble wood for your campfire without expending much energy. If you’ll be cutting down the family Christmas tree, this saw would also make a great companion, as it’s easy to carry and stowed in a bag.” — Colin Aylesworth, Deputy Editor, Reviews

Otella Cooling Body Spray

“These sprays work so well and are a godsend after a workout or a ride (or dog walk, or honestly just a walk around the block some days) on a hot day. Plus, they smell amazing!” — Natascha Grief, Health and Fitness Editor

Aesop Reverence Aromatique Hand Balm

“Nobody wants dry hands! Greasy palms aren’t exactly desirable, either. That said, I am truly so grateful that the Aesop Aromatique Hand Balm exists. The product has my hands feeling hydrated and light whenever I layer it on. There’s no lingering residue or sticky feeling afterward. (Especially important for those who type on keyboards frequently.) Aesop offers this in three different scents, but my favorite is Reverence, which gives off a smoky and wood-like aroma. I seriously use this every day, and I think everyone else should, too.” — Josiah Soto, Digital Content Producer

Whoop Fitness Tracker 4.0

“Whoop 4.0 offers a more complete picture than most other fitness trackers provide since it measures metrics such as sleep, recovery, and stress (among other things) and allows you to track over time so you can analyze how your body responds to, well, everything. The 4.0 model now also tracks body temp and respiratory rate, which provides an even more detailed reporting of strain, stress, and recovery. Whoop has also recently released a line of sport-specific technical clothing (Assos bibs for cyclists, for example) that seamlessly integrate data collection with built-in Whoop pods.” — NG

Bruvi Coffee and Tea Bundle

“This machine can brew everything from iced coffee and tea to espresso and infused drinks. The interface is tech-savvy yet user-friendly, and there are several helpful features like a used pod receptacle, personalization options, and app compatibility. I love the iced coffee setting because the Bruvi brews at a lower temperature so your ice doesn’t melt and water down your beverage.” — Amber Joglar, Reviews Editor

lululemon Beyondfeel Trail Running Shoes

“2024 is the year I became a fan of lululemon shoes. This is my new favorite running errands and dog-walking shoe. It’s not so much a trail shoe that I feel like I’m wearing a boot, but it has good grip and stability.” — Donna Raskin, Senior Health and Fitness Editor

Beats Pill Bluetooth Speaker

“A fresh take on a legendary product, the Beats Pill Bluetooth speaker is an excellent gift option for anyone in need of a sound upgrade. The portable gadget can blast high-quality sound anywhere and, thanks to an IP67 rating, survive exposure to water and dust. In addition to flawless integration with Apple and Android devices, the Pill is easy to locate and capable of powering up their phone.” — SV

Nomad Stand One Max

“The Stand One Max by Nomad is my favorite MagSafe charger to arrive this year and a great gift for Apple enthusiasts who rock an iPhone, an Apple watch, and AirPods or other wireless earbuds with wireless charging. Crafted from metal and glass, the accessory looks decidedly luxurious and feels incredibly crafted. Of course, it can also rapidly charge Apple gear.” — SV

 

GiftedGold Custom Album Cover

“I got my closest friends a custom-made poster of their favorite albums from this Etsy store last Christmas, and it was a hit. Each poster features the cover of your selected album, a row of colors matching the album’s artwork, and a list of each track. The final result makes for a nice piece of wall art that can easily be framed.” — XP

Opinel High Carbon Steel Dinner Knives

“If you’re like me, buying a new set of knives is something you put off as long as possible. I cut with dull knives for years until I got this colorful set from Opinel as a gift. The knives are made in France and feature stainless steel blades and hand-varnished hornbeam wooden handles. They also come in an easy-to-wrap box.” — RK

SOURCE: BESTPRODUCTS.COM

Christmas is a time of giving and receiving gifts.  If you’re not the best at choosing gifts for the special people in your life, I found an article detailing the “best” gifts for this year.  Most of these gifts are pricey and some are just odd—a heated eye massager?? REALLY??? Who needs that??

lululemon Go Getter Bag 2.0

“Give your exercise-obsessed giftee this versatile gym bag from lululemon for Christmas this year. It has designated space for sweaty workout clothes, their water bottle, and all other essentials they need at the gym. But it’s also great for travel, too, thanks to its water-repellent fabric and padded handles for comfy carrying. It also has an interior padded pocket for a 16-inch laptop and a quick-access pocket for their phone. It will become an instant mainstay in their accessories collection.” — Best Products Staff

Renpho Eye Massager with Heat

“Give your recipient’s eyes a break with this heated eye massager. It features internal heating pads, built-in speakers to listen to Bluetooth music, adjustable compression, and five different massage modes to help your recipient’s eyes relax. Thanks to its foldable and portable design, they can take it wherever they go. It’s so relaxing, they might even use it to get some much needed shut-eye. Bonus: It helps ease dark circles, too!” — Best Products Staff

Skylight Calendar Max

“The Skylight 27-inch is a home digital calendar that makes life easier. you can load your family’s Outlooks, Gcal, iCal, and more into the system so that everyone knows each other’s schedule. You can import them one by one as well. We use it so that the kids know when we’re going to be out, and we know when they have after-school activities.” — CB

Golfguru Golf Practice Net

“If your dad (or any other golfer in your life) can’t always hit the links, this is the best Christmas gift to bring the links to him. This golf training kit comes with a tri-turf golf hitting mat, 10 golf balls, seven golf tees, two golf rubber tees, and a hitting net that features one large target and three chipping target pockets so he can practice all his shots and swings from the comfort of his home. And since it can be set up in less than 5 minutes, your favorite golfer can spend more time practicing their swing than dealing with gear.” — Best Products Staff

Carhartt Deluxe Insulated Lunch Bag

“Lunch boxes may seem too practical, but this option from Carhartt is definitely gift-worthy — especially for the teachers on your list. It features two insulated compartments for extra storage, a zippered pocket ideal for utensils, and two carrying options — a top handle and shoulder strap. It’s also made of durable water-repellent fabric, so your recipient can take it on rainy days and know their food will be safe. Choose from five colors to make the gift feel more personalized for your recipient.” — Best Products Staff

Netany Drinking Glasses Set

“This drinking glass set will help your recipient ditch plastic one drink at a time. They’ll have everything they need for worry-free sips and a move toward a more sustainable lifestyle. This includes four can-shaped glass cups with a 16-ounce capacity, four lids made from 100% bamboo, and four reusable glass straws. It also comes with a pair of brushes so they can make sure the straws stay squeaky clean between uses.” — Best Products Staff

Intoval 3-in-1 Wireless Charger

“If your loved one is an Apple user, they will love this Christmas gift. It will not only give them a designated space to store all their devices but also offers wireless charging. Its sleek design can hold an iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods, so all their devices can charge at one time without a mess of cords. We’re confident that this useful gift will have a permanent spot on their desk or nightstand.” — Best Products Staff

Ember Temperature Control Smart Mug 2

“Keeping tea, coffee, and hot cocoa warm has never been easier than with Ember’s genius smart mug. It can be controlled with a smartphone and has a long-lasting battery. It maintains their preferred sipping temperature (up to 145 degrees Fahrenheit), so they don’t have to run to the microwave occasionally to heat up lukewarm java. It’s convenient, clever, and something your recipients probably wouldn’t buy themselves — all the ingredients for one of the best Christmas gifts.” — Best Products Staff

Lost Boy Entertainment ‘Words Are Hard‘ Card Game

“This game is fast-paced and competitive but still accessible. Because the premise is based on the pictures on the cards, basically anyone of any age can play. I’ve played this before over drinks with some friends and at a birthday party with my young family members; both times were equally fun. It’s also easy to play with larger groups because you rotate between turns so quickly that nobody is ever left waiting for long. The game is nearly impossible to play without getting a little too competitive.” — Tom Price, Associate Editor, Reviews

Razer Kishi Ultra Gaming Controller

“The Razer Kishi Ultra mobile gaming controller is the new gold standard for design, ergonomics, and performance in its product category and rightfully one of my favorite gadgets of 2024. Its full-size grips, onboard switches with best-in-class performance and tactility, and customizable RGB lighting can transform any phone — with or without a case — into a portable gaming console.” — Stefan Vazharov, Senior Technology Editor, Reviews

Gurgle Pot Beverage Pourer

“As the name implies, this pitcher will create a gurgling sound after each pour when placed upright, and it’s always a delight whenever we have friends or family over for dinner. The pitcher’s open-mouthed fish design is certainly unique, but it’s so charming and great for anyone who wants a statement piece for their kitchen or dining area. It comes in different color options, too.” — Xavier Piedra, Senior Editor, Reviews

Dupray Bloom Air Purifier for Large Rooms with Planter

“Adding another clunky appliance into a small apartment is a bummer, but feels necessary after a year of constant construction pollution, wildfire smoke, and intense allergies. This Dupray air purifier is much less of an eyesore than the traditional boxy design. You can use it as an accent table or a planter and simultaneously have it purifying over 1500 square feet with its HEPA-13 filter. Dupray gives you a choice of finishes for the tabletop and the color of the mesh around the base, too!” — Bridget Clegg, Senior Digital Art Director

Bearaby Hand-Knit Weighted Blanket for Adults

“I am someone who relies on a lot of assistance to get a good night’s rest. A weighted blanket is critical for me, and my favorite blanket is by Bearaby. It’s a woven style with a soft cover and a deeply weighted feel. It’s also machine washable, which, as a hot sleeper, makes things feel cleaner overall.” — Cat Bowen, Senior Editor for Commerce, Reviews

Clixo Super Rainbow (60-Piece Pack)

“This Christmas gift can help break a kid’s screen addiction by giving them a huge collection of Clixo’s beloved multisensory toys to fiddle around with. The magnetic, flexible shapes can be turned into any 2D and 3D shape a child can imagine, whether they want to build a dog, a hat, or a plane. The kit also fosters open-ended play and helps kids develop creative confidence and innovation skills, so it’s a Christmas gift parents can appreciate, too!” — Best Products StaffApple AirTag (4-Pack

“Imagine never having to worry about where you left something ever again. Thanks to Apple AirTags, you can gift that sense of relief to all the forgetful folks on your list! These tags stick onto just about anything — from wallets to dog collars — and they work as a tracker, so your gift recipient will always know where their things are. If they can’t find their item immediately, they can activate an audio alarm to help locate it. And if they do lose something, they can report it as lost in the Find My network, which comes standard with all Apple devices.” — Best Products Staff

Anker MagGo Power Bank

“Anker’s MagGo Power Bank (10K) has been my go-to iPhone battery pack since its launch in early 2024. Featuring support for the latest Qi2 wireless charging standard and ample battery capacity, the accessory treated my iPhone 15 Pro Max to quick and easy power-ups on the move. Its built-in viewing stand, fast USB-C port, and color display were also handy for monitoring the charging process.” — SV

Badesofa Back Bath Pillow

“For whoever loves to spend time in the bathtub, this pillow makes it easy to find comfortable positions and up the experience.” — Pavlína Černá, Senior Features Editor

Rumpl Original Puffy Camping Blanket

“I love when gear intended for outdoorsy stuff does double-duty as home decor. That’s the case with Rumpl’s Original Puffy blanket, which is an excellent addition to any camping trip but also looks great unfurled on my bed or couch as a throw. The insulated puffer’s water-resistant ripstop nylon shell is super-soft, pulled up against your nose and chin, and a sewn-in clasp along the edge transforms the blanket into a cape. It’s available in more than two dozen colorful, groovy graphic prints and a few solids, and it stores in a matching stuffsack.” — Rachel Klein, Deputy Editor, Reviews

Bird Buddy Original Smart Bird Feeder with Camera

“From bird lovers to new homeowners, this smart bird feeder is a surprising gift idea that’s sure to win Christmas. It features a high-resolution AI-powered camera that captures photos, recognizes over 1,000 bird species, and works with a convenient companion app that notifies your recipient of any feathered visitors — so your loved one won’t miss any of the action when they’re not at home. It’s also lightweight, weather-resistant, and made of recyclable plastic housing.” — Best Products Staff

Cave Tools Barbecue Spatula with Bottle Opener and Serrated Edge

“This heavy-duty spatula does more than flip burgers: Its serrated edge cuts through even the fattiest piece of meat to check for doneness or create perfect-sized portions. It also has a built-in bottle opener for your griller to pop a cold one the next time they’re on duty. And when they’re done, it’s dishwasher-safe for extremely easy clean-up.” — John Gilpatrick, Senior Editor, Reviews

SOURCE: BESTPRODUCTS.COM

I love this song by Cody Johnson.  It details a farmer telling a couple of developers that they don’t have enough cash to buy his land. 

Dirt Cheap

They came in thinkin’ top dollar
To that old cotton crop farmer
They knocked on his screen door and he said
“Lord, what you need, boys?” And they said
“You know all the others went and cashed out
We got the subdivision all mapped out
It’ll sit right here on this land
And you can leave town a rich man”
And he said, “Boys, whatever you’re offerin’, it won’t be enough

‘Cause I got a little girl that used to swing right there
I still see her pink bow in her brown hair
She’s in the big city, but she still calls home
What’s she gonna do if she comes back and we’re gone?
And over there, under that white oak tree
Beneath the cross is where my best buddy’s buried
Lasted thirteen huntin’ season runnin’ strong
Keep your money ’cause a man can’t leave his dog
And over there is where I got down on one knee
You can’t buy that kind of dirt cheap”

One man smiled and he kinda looked away
The other said, “Before we go, I gotta know one thing
Between the droughts and the floods through all the years
What in the world got you through?
How the hell’d you get here?” And he said

“That little girl that used to swing right there
I still see her pink bow in her brown hair
Runnin’ up after one of them long days
A big smile makin’ every little worry fade
And over there, under that white oak tree
Beneath the cross, where my best buddy’s buried
All them huntin’ seasons freezin’ in a jon boat
Me and him, double-barrel and a two-stroke
And that woman that said ‘yes’ when I got down on one knee
Yeah, you can’t buy that kind of dirt cheap

No, it ain’t somethin’ you fall into
It’s somethin’ God gives you
And you hold on to

Just like that little girl who used to swing right there
I still see her pink bow in her brown hair
She’s in the big city now, but she still calls home
She’s comin’ back next week and, man, it’s been too long
And over there, under that white oak tree
Beside the cross, where my best buddy’s buried
Lays a puppy posted up in the shade
That woman never could turn away a stray
I guess that’s why she said ‘yes’ when I got down on one knee
Oh, long as all this is here, why the hell would I ever leave?
You can’t buy that kind of dirt cheap”

Today is Goldie Hawn’s birthday! She was born November 21, 1945 and has been in tons of movies. My favorite? Overboard!  She co-stars with her long-time love Kurt Russell.  I found an article on tvovermind.com that details 10 things we might not know about the movie.\

From tvovermind.com:

Forget all the glaring plot holes, that wasn’t the point of this movie. Overboard was all about showing the other half the simpler and in some cases downtrodden part of life that they didn’t realize was going on beyond their fancy lifestyles. Of course, it was also to show the supposedly downtrodden how to appreciate what they had and take care of it as well. As the wise butler in the film pointed out most people tend to go through life with blinders on, knowing just that one station to which they’ve been born. Yet when you take the blinders off and understand that life is in fact a great deal more than your own personal experience, then you have a choice to make. Do you embrace the wider world or stay put in your own little existence?

The movie showed that how you choose to live is not what defines you, it’s how you live with what you have.

10 Kurt Russell and Goldie Hawn’s kids were always on set.

Their youngest actually took his first steps on set. It was no doubt comforting to have them there at all times.

9 Russell’s pickup truck was used later on in Christmas Vacation.

Recall the old, beat-up truck that was tailgating the Griswold’s on their way to get a Christmas tree. This is the same truck.

8 The members of the crew on the yacht kept falling asleep.

The rocking motion of the yacht would continually lull them to sleep, making filming a bit difficult.

7 Everything in the film was authentic.

A good example was the bowling alley. Nothing in there was touched, everything is just the way it looks in real life.

6 The Pee Wee Herman voice was improvised.

The character of Joe made this up on the fly since the Pee Wee bit wasn’t in the script at all.

5 The director allowed his actors to improvise a lot.

It’s hard to know just what was improvised and what wasn’t without being told since everything seems to flow so smoothly.

4 Hawn and Russell hosted a BBQ for the whole cast and crew.

You get the feeling that even if they weren’t all close there was a good deal of respect between the crew and cast members.

3 John Candy was considered for the role of Billy.

At the time that he was considered for the role John was filming Planes, Trains, and Automobiles with Steve Martin.

2 One of the kids was so rowdy on the set that the director had to step in frequently.

It would seem that the actor playing Joey wasn’t just acting a lot of the time, he was actually this rowdy. The director had to get after him quite a bit to calm him down.

1 Hector Elizondo has a cameo in the film. 

Hector played in the film Necessary Roughness as the head coach, and he’s been seen most recently as Ed on Last Man Standing up until it was cancelled.

This had to be one of the funniest movies ever made and yet it’s got such a great life lesson too.

SOURCE:TVOVERMIND.COM

Today is Gordon Lightfoot’s birthday—born November 17, 1938, died May 1, 2023.  One of my most favorite songs is his Sundown.  There are many interpretations of what the lyrics mean—a woman who won’t commit?  a recovering drunk?  Who really knows…but I love it.

I can see her lyin’ back in her satin dress

In a room where ya do what ya don’t confess

Sundown you better take care

If I find you been creepin’ ’round my back stairs

Sundown ya better take care

If I find you been creepin’ ’round my back stairs

She’s been lookin’ like a queen in a sailor’s dream

And she don’t always say what she really means

Sometimes I think it’s a shame

When I get feelin’ better when I’m feelin’ no pain

Sometimes I think it’s a shame

When I get feelin’ better when I’m feelin’ no pain

I can picture every move that a man could make

Getting lost in her lovin’ is your first mistake

Sundown you better take care

If I find you been creepin’ ’round my back stairs

Sometimes I think it’s a sin

When I feel like I’m winnin’ when I’m losin’ again

I can see her lookin’ fast in her faded jeans

She’s a hard lovin’ woman, got me feelin’ mean

Sometimes I think it’s a shame

When I get feelin’ better when I’m feelin’ no pain

Sundown you better take care

If I find you been creepin’ ’round my back stairs

Sundown you better take care

If I find you been creepin’ ’round my back stairs

Sometimes I think it’s a sin

When I feel like I’m winnin’ when I’m losin’ again

Today is David Schwimmer’s birthday—Ross from Friends. People had an interesting article about things we may not know about the hit series.

From People:

No one really liked the theme song and opening sequence

The iconic theme song, “I’ll Be There for You,” accompanied by the six friends splashing around in a fountain and settling together on the burnt orange couch, has become synonymous with Friends. However, in a 2016 interview with BBC, Aniston shared that the cast of the show didn’t necessarily feel as fondly toward it. “No one was really a big fan of that theme song,” she said. She added that she found it “a little odd” that they were all dancing in the fountain.

Schwimmer originally didn’t want to play Ross

Though the role of Ross was created with Schwimmer in mind, he didn’t originally feel passionate about the part, according to former PEOPLE writer Kelsey Miller’s 2018 book I’ll Be There For You: The One About Friends. Co-creator David Crane said Schwimmer had had a negative experience working on a TV project and had resigned to a career in theater. Crane recalled during the 2021 reunion special having to “beg” and “beseech” Schwimmer to join the cast.  “[We] tried to get David, [but] David had quit television,” he said. “He had a miserable experience doing another show. He moved back to Chicago to just do theater.”Perry also almost didn’t play Chandler, as he had another pilot booked.

The creators originally wanted Cox to play Rachel

During Friends: The Reunion, Crane revealed they had a “hard time” finding the actress to play Monica, originally wanting Cox to play Rachel. “We met with Courteney Cox and she explained to us why she didn’t think she was a Rachel and that she, herself, was more of a Monica — and she was right,” co-creator Marta Kauffman added. “Courteney brought this incredible joy to the character.” “Everything Courteney brought to it made Monica so much richer than what we had originally intended,” said Crane.

The cast went to a casino before the first live taping to celebrate their last night of “anonymity”

Having a feeling that the show would blow up, director James Burrows took the young cast out to dinner in Las Vegas the night before the pilot premiered. “This is your last shot at anonymity,” he told them, according to Miller’s book. He added that they wanted to “do whatever it was that hot young television actors were supposed to do when they flew into Vegas on private jets,” sharing that they wrote Burrows checks so they could have money to gamble with.

‘Friends’ takes the credit for making the term “friend zone” popular

Now well-known in pop culture, the term “friend zone” refers to when a person does not reciprocate someone’s feelings but, rather, sees them only as a friend. While the phrase didn’t take off until the 2010s, it was originally coined by Joey in the season 1 episode “The One with the Blackout.” He tells Ross that he has waited too long to confess his feelings for Rachel and is now certifiably in the “friend zone.”

Monica was supposed to end up with Joey, not Chandler

While Monica was originally supposed to end up with Joey, the actors’ chemistry changed the outcome of the show. After Monica slept with Chandler in the season 4 finale of the show, the creators knew that relationship was there to stay. “When Monica and Chandler went to bed together the first time in London, the original plan wasn’t that they were going to then become a couple for the rest of the series,” Crane told Entertainment Weekly in September 2019. He added, “It was one of those things where originally the thought was, ‘Oh it was just a big, quick, funny mistake and how are they going to get out of that?’ Then the more we explored it, the more stories it provided and it really reinvigorated the show.” The audience also reacted so strongly, screaming loudly, that the creators knew they hit gold.

Set decorator Greg Gande found the iconic orange couch in a basement

Gande searched far and wide for a couch that would be the central meeting spot for the friends at their favorite café, Central Perk. He eventually found the perfect fit — a burnt orange, slightly torn couch — in the basement storage area at the Warner Bros. studio in Burbank, California. “Literally in the back corner, shoved under another piece, was this sofa with beautiful carved wood,” he told USA Today in September 2019. He recalled that he had to spruce it up before it could go on air. “I remember explicitly, there were network and studio notes because there was a rip in the back of the sofa and it was a little tattered on the arms,” Gande said. “I had to redo some of the fringe.”

Perry’s favorite episode was one where he spoke the least

Though Chandler was known for his signature sarcastic humor, Perry’s favorite episode was ironically one in which he had little dialogue. In season 1’s “The One with the Blackout,” Chandler is stuck in a vestibule with Victoria’s Secret model Jill Goodacre during a city-wide power outage. “The interesting thing about that episode was I didn’t speak much; it was mostly in voiceover,” Perry told Entertainment Weekly in 2004. “We prerecorded what I said, and I had to react.” He added in the interview that the fact that he was acting opposite Goodacre didn’t hurt.” Let’s face it: Jill Goodacre is hot, so it wasn’t that difficult,” he said, adding, “I [remember] spitting my gum out, and it stuck to the wall. It was my choice to just stay frozen in fear and embarrassment.”

The episode in which Ross and Rachel consummate their relationship has a unique title

Ross and Rachel consummate their relationship for the first time in season 2, with the episode aptly titled, “The One Where Ross and Rachel…You Know.” It is the only episode to include two characters’ name in the title. Ross and Rachel’s on-and-off relationship was a staple throughout the show, leaving off with the two of them finally getting together after a decade in which they welcomed a child and dated multiple times.

Perry had a crush on Aniston before the show started

When Perry first met Aniston, two years before the show started, he immediately had a crush on her, he told PEOPLE in October 2022.  “There was such severe indifference from her that I ended it,” he said jokingly. “I think everybody probably figured it out. I never said anything. And I hid it. But then she married Brad Pitt, and I was like, ‘I don’t think I have a chance here.’ “

Aniston and Schwimmer had crushes on each other

During the reunion special, Schwimmer revealed that he and Aniston both had feelings for one another at different points of the show, but nothing ever came of it. “I mean, the first season, I had a major crush on Jen. At some point, we were crushing hard on each other,” Schwimmer said. “But it was like two ships passing, because one of us was always in a relationship and we never crossed that boundary. We respected that.”  Aniston added, “Honestly, I remember saying one time to David, ‘It’s going to be such a bummer if the first time you and I actually kiss is going to be on national television.’ Sure enough, first time we kissed was in that coffee shop. So we just channeled all of adoration and love for each other into Ross and Rachel.”

The cast hated working with Marcel, the monkey

A staple in the show, Marcel was Ross’ pet for points in the first two seasons. However, the cast revealed during the reunion that they hated working with the monkey — especially Schwimmer.  “I love animals. I love primates. I have nothing against animals, I’m an animal lover. However, here was my problem,” he said. He continued, “The monkey — obviously, it was trained and it had to hit its mark and do its thing right at the perfect time— but what inevitably began to happen was we would all have choreographed bits kind of timed out, and it would get messed up because the monkey didn’t do its job right. So, we’d have to reset, we’d have to go again because the monkey didn’t get it right.”

Bruce Willis starred on ‘Friends’ after losing a bet to Perry

Friends had a number of famous guest stars, including Bruce Willis, who worked alongside Perry in the 2000 comedy The Whole Nine Yards. “Bruce hadn’t been sure the film would work at all, and I’d bet him it would — if he lost, he had to do a guest spot on ‘Friends,’ ” Perry wrote in his 2022 memoir Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing. The movie went on to become the no. 1 movie in the U.S. for three straight weeks, leading Willis to appear in Friends for three episodes in season 6 as Paul Stevens, the father of a college girl that Ross dated. He also had a brief relationship with Rachel. Willis’ performance even earned him an Emmy for outstanding guest actor in a comedy series.

Gunther’s bleached hair was an accident

James Michael Tyler, who died in October 2021, originally was only on the show to play an unnamed barista to make the café look more realistic. However, over time, he built out his character, Gunther, to have a personality and undying love for Rachel, no matter how bad of a coworker she was. He became known especially for his eccentric, dramatically bleached blonde hair — which turned out to be a result of an accident. “I had a friend who wanted to be a hairdresser and wanted to practice bleaching someone’s hair, so I offered what hair I had left at the time,” Tyler told BuzzFeed in 2014. “It came out white and that was the night before I was called in for the first day of shooting the first season.” “I bleached my hair every week for 10 years,” Tyler said. “I did it myself after a while. It was just easier instead of coming in early to do it. I would just do it the night before.”

The turkey in “The One With All the Thanksgivings” was not real

In one of the most beloved Friends episodes, the six friends each shared their worst Thanksgiving memory. For Joey, it was when he got his head stuck in the turkey Monica was preparing as a meal — that Monica later got stuck in herself. Luckily for the cast, the turkey was a prop. “That is absolutely not a real turkey,” Crane told Entertainment Weekly in November 2016. “I think there are so many health issues about actually putting a turkey on someone’s head.”  “We wanted — I especially wanted — a real turkey. Just because I wanted Matt to have to put his head into a turkey,” writer Greg Malins added. “The prop department did their due diligence, but it didn’t exist.” He continued, “The biggest turkey ever for sale is not big enough to fit a human head. I remember them coming to us and saying, ‘We have to build it.’ So we made it out of foam.”

Kudrow’s pregnancy was written into the show

When Kudrow discovered she was pregnant near the end of season 3, she told creators Kauffman and Crane right away. Crane explained he hadn’t wanted to do the classic TV stint of hiding her behind objects for the duration of her pregnancy, so decided to go against the grain and write the pregnancy into the show. The two came up with the idea of Phoebe going through IVF to become pregnant with her brother’s children and serve as a surrogate for him and his wife. However, when they first presented the idea to Kudrow, she was hesitant. “It’s really early on. I understand that this serves the story really well, but if, God forbid, something happens to my pregnancy, I’m still stuck playing a pregnant woman,” the creators recalled her saying, per Vulture. Kauffman and Crane assured her they could easily switch the storyline should anything go wrong, and they went forth.

The show was filmed in front of a live audience that would sometimes have to be swapped out if filming went on too long

In an effort to always stay true to their audience, Friends filmed in front of a live crowd, adapting and changing the lines to fit what led to the best reactions. The creators didn’t shy away from continuing to make tweaks as often as necessary, sometimes leading shoots to go on as late as 1 a.m. or 2 a.m. When they went for so long, they would switch out the audiences to keep them as fresh as possible, per Vulture. “They would sometimes laugh at setups to jokes, ’cause they knew the characters so well. They were ahead of us, more than not,” Kauffman said.

Kudrow asked Perry’s permission to do a scene the way Chandler would

Kudrow recounted in a 2020 Actors on Actors Variety special with Aniston that one of her favorite scenes to shoot was when her character discovered Monica and Chandler were hooking up while she was at Ross’. Phoebe saw them start undressing across the street (the apartments faced each other) and had a drastic reaction — which she said she asked Perry’s permission for as it was inspired by his sarcastic humor. “[I’m like], ‘My eyes! My eyes!’ That’s how Matthew Perry said things. I actually asked his permission before we shot it,” she said. Kudrow continued, “I was like, ‘I don’t know if you’ve seen the rehearsals, but I’m saying ‘My eyes! My eyes!’ the way you do. So I just need to know that that’s OK with you. If not, I’ll say it a different way.’ And he was like, ‘Yeah, go for it.’ “

Kudrow did not enjoy playing Ursula

Throughout the show, viewers got to know Phoebe’s estranged identical twin sister, Ursula. However, as Kudrow didn’t actually have a twin, she played both roles, with her real life sister stepping in as a body double. Director Kevin Bright told Entertainment Weekly in September 2019 that Kudrow actually disliked shooting the scenes, especially having her sister in the role. “Lisa really did not have a good time doing them,” he said. “She did not like acting with a double, and in a way she might have made it more difficult for herself because her double was her actual sister, [Helena].”

There were a lot of people interested in playing Ugly Naked Guy

Perhaps one of the most iconic — yet nameless! — Friends characters, Ugly Naked Guy made a number of off-screen appearances in the show as the unattractive nude man in the apartment across from Monica and Rachel’s. The friends would often see him across the street going about his day, in the nude. Though he was mainly not shown, in the few instances he appeared on camera without even his face visible, the crew admitted they had no issue finding someone to play him. “Surprisingly, there are people who want to play ‘Ugly Naked Guy.’ They do,” Kauffman told EW. “It’s just [shot] from the back, they don’t have any lines, it wasn’t an audition — it was just about, physically, what do we imagine?”

SOURCE: PEOPLE.COM

From History.com:

As the clock struck 8 p.m. in New York City on the night of October 30, 1938, Orson Welles stood on a podium inside a Madison Avenue radio studio. The baby-faced, 23-year-old theatrical star, who had graced the cover of Time magazine months earlier, prepared to direct 10 actors and a 27-piece orchestra for the Columbia Broadcasting System’s weekly “Mercury Theatre on the Air” program.

Millions of Americans, as they were every night, huddled around their radios, but relatively few of them were listening to CBS when it was announced that Welles and his fellow cast members were presenting an original dramatization of the 1898 H.G. Wells science-fiction novel “The War of the Worlds.” Instead, most of the country was tuned in to NBC’s popular “Chase and Sanborn Hour,” which featured ventriloquist Edgar Bergen and his dummy, Charlie McCarthy. 

Channel surfing, however, was not a modern-day invention, and disoriented listeners who stumbled onto the “Mercury Theatre on the Air” without having heard the disclaimer at the top of the radio play were thrust into the middle of an hour-long drama that left some believing that the country was under attack.

The CBS program, penned by “Casablanca” screenwriter Howard Koch, opened serenely with the dulcet dance music of “Ramon Raquello and his orchestra.” Then, an actor portraying an announcer broke in with a fake news report that several explosions of incandescent gas had occurred on Mars. In quick succession came a series of increasingly alarming, suspense-building newsflashes that culminated with Martian spacecrafts crashing into a farm in Grovers Mill, New Jersey. 

For the rest of the hour, terror crackled over the airwaves. Breathless reporters detailed an extraterrestrial army of squid-like figures that killed thousands of earthlings with heat rays and black clouds of poison gas as they steamrolled into New York City. Welles and the rest of the cast impersonated astronomers, state militia officials and even the Secretary of the Interior, who cannily sounded like President Franklin D. Roosevelt.

Human germs, rather than human armies, ultimately did in the mythical Martian invaders, and at the end of the hour the director wrapped up the radio drama by telling his audience, “This is Orson Welles, ladies and gentlemen, out of character to assure you that ‘The War of the Worlds’ has no further significance than as the holiday offering it was intended to be. The Mercury Theatre’s own radio version of dressing up in a sheet and jumping out of a bush and saying ‘boo!’”

The National Panic That Followed The War of the Worlds 

The fright that Welles put into America, however, was much greater than he thought. Although the program included a reminder at intermission that it was a dramatization, thousands of anxious and confused listeners believed it to be real. They besieged police departments, newspapers and CBS with phone calls. In New Jersey, ground zero for the fictitious invasion, national guardsmen wanted to know where they should report for duty, and the Trenton police department fielded 2,000 calls in under two hours. In Providence, Rhode Island, hysterical callers begged the electric company to cut power to the city to keep it safe from the extraterrestrial invaders.

Fear and anxiety had become a way of life in the 1930s, and it took little to rattle jittery Americans. The Depression had emptied their wallets, the gathering crisis in Europe threatened to ignite into war and just weeks earlier the Hurricane of 1938 had roared ashore. Plus, the Hindenburg disaster, which had been broadcast over the airwaves just the year before, was still fresh in the country’s collective psyche. 

This Day in History: 10/30/1938 – Welles Scares Nation

The newspaper industry also felt unease from the increasing popularity of radio as an informational and advertising medium, and seeing a chance to strike back at its growing rival, it gleefully collected the sporadic reports of individual confusion generated by “The War of the Worlds” and weaved them into a narrative of “mass hysteria.” Newspapers reported suicide attempts, heart attacks and exoduses from major metropolitan areas. 

The New York Daily News printed the feverish headline “Fake Radio ‘War’ Stirs Terror Through U.S.” along with the photograph of a “war victim,” a woman in a sling who had heard the reports of black gas clouds in Times Square and ran out from her midtown apartment into the street where she fell and broke her arm. Similar stories of woe were printed from coast to coast and unleashed a media frenzy.

Orson Welles’ Response

With threats of lawsuits swirling in the press, CBS went into damage control. At a hastily called press conference, a doe-eyed Welles displayed his theatrical acumen and expressed his remorse and shock at the public reaction. “I can’t imagine an invasion from Mars would find ready acceptance,” he said when asked if he pranked the country. Decades later, however, Welles admitted, “The kind of response was merrily anticipated by us all. The size of it, of course, was flabbergasting.”

The Federal Communications Commission did not sanction CBS or Welles, and the radio dramatist quickly spun his Halloween trick into a treat. Thanks to what became known as the “panic broadcast,” the radio program signed Campbell’s Soup as a sponsor, and soon after, Welles inked a deal to direct “Citizen Kane,” named by the American Film Institute as the greatest movie of all time.

SOURCE: HISTORY.COM