Men's Journal's Blog, page 49
July 16, 2025
Astronomers Spot a 7-Billion-Year-Old Comet From Beyond the Solar System
Astronomers have their eyes on a mysterious object zipping through the Solar System, and if their hunch is right, it could be the oldest visitor humanity has ever observed.
Comet 31/ATLAS, first detected on July 1, has been identified as only the third confirmed interstellar object to pass through our solar neighborhood.
But what sets this icy traveler apart isn’t just its origins. It’s the staggering possibility that it may be 7 billion years old. That would make 31/ATLAS older than the Solar System itself.
Researchers believe the comet may have formed in the thick disk of the Milky Way, a region populated by some of the galaxy’s oldest stars. Unlike most comets, which are leftovers from the formation of nearby star systems, this one likely wandered the galaxy for billions of years before crossing paths with us.
If that’s true, 31/ATLAS could give scientists a rare glimpse into how the early Milky Way, and maybe even planetary systems, came together.
Related: What Astronomers Just Discovered Between Galaxies Changes Everything
While its exact origin remains unknown, researchers at the Royal Astronomical Society’s 2025 National Astronomy Meeting presented evidence showing the comet’s speed and orbit suggest an ancient, interstellar origin. They used data from ESA’s Gaia satellite to simulate the comet’s possible journey across the galaxy, analyzing the movements of over a billion stars to back up their findings.
Unlike its infamous predecessor ‘Oumuamua, which sparked alien theories back in 2017, or the comet 2I/Borisov spotted in 2019, 31/ATLAS appears to have been a frozen planetesimal—one of the original building blocks of planets.
Related: Mysterious Cosmic Object Sends Strange Signals to Earth Every 44 Minutes
However, how it got here and why it’s moving the way it is remain open questions. Scientists hope further observations will reveal whether 31/ATLAS contains particles from some of the earliest stars in the galaxy, essentially making it a cosmic time capsule.
For now, the icy wanderer continues its journey past the Sun, carrying billions of years of galactic history along for the ride.
Related: Top Scientist Issues Chilling Warning About Antarctic Tipping Point
Walmart Is Selling a 'Sturdy' $200 Weight Bench for Just $110, and Shoppers Say It’s 'Great for Home Workouts'
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A weight bench is at the core of any good home gym setup, but not all benches are created equal. Many are so basic that their functionality is limited, and others are poorly constructed and feel like they’re on the verge of collapse with each exercise. A good one is structurally sound and allows for any kind of weight bench exercise, and it doesn’t hurt if it’s easy to assemble, too.
With that in mind, consider the Vibespark Adjustable Weight Bench. Not only do reviewers say it’s “sturdy,” but for a limited time, it’s on sale at Walmart for 45% off, dropping the price from $200 to just $110.
Vibespark Adjustable Weight Bench, $110 (was $200) at Walmart
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This weight bench has an adjustable seat, allowing you to do any bench workout from presses to seated shoulder raises. At the same time, it’s equipped with a dual-function leg developer that allows you to perform leg extensions and curls, and it even boasts a squat rack. Its 410-pound weight capacity is more than enough for most users, and it’s sturdily built and won’t rattle and shift like many lesser benches. And when your workout is finished, the whole setup folds to allow for easy storage.
Shoppers say this “great bench” is “cost-effective,” “convenient,” and “easy to assemble,” making it “great for home workouts.”
“The bench is sturdy and durable,” said one reviewer, asserting that it is “far superior to all of the other home-style gym benches on the market.”
“This is a great piece of exercise equipment,” said another reviewer. “It doesn't take up a lot of room, and you can get a pretty good workout with all its features. Assembly wasn't bad at all, especially when using the video shown with the product description on the Walmart website. With the adapter that is included, most weights (large or small center opening) should fit.”
Ready to start your workout? Order the Vibespark Adjustable Weight Bench now, because it’s only on sale for 45% off for a limited time.
Uber Eats Improving Access to More Than 50 Stores
Uber Eats is looking to extend its service to a wider base of customers.
The popular delivery app has announced that it will be adding over 50 new stores to the approved list of retailers that accept assistance programs like SNAP and EBT.
"We believe that everyone deserves the convenience of delivery, and with this growing list of merchant partners we can continue to provide access to the fresh food that families and individuals need, especially those without access to reliable transportation for whom food delivery can be a lifeline," said Hashim Amin, Uber North America's head of grocery and retail delivery.
Retailers that will now accept SNAP and EBT through Uber Eats include 7-Eleven, CVS, Duane Reade, Family Dollar, Giant Eagle, Safeway, Shoppers, Walgreens and Wegmans.
The app will include a special icon to let users know which stores accept SNAP and EBT. Uber says that is is also planning to add more retailers to accept benefits in the coming months, and that negotiations to do so are already underway.
Customers will be able to access their benefits and payments in the app through Forage, a USDA-approved company that processes benefits administered by the federal government.
Ofek Lavian, Forage's co-founder and CEO, says that the company is "proud" to help more families utilize their benefits through the app and have access to the food they need.
“This expansion gives SNAP recipients access to tens of thousands of new stores—from national chains to local grocers—all through the Uber Eats app,” Lavian said.
In an effort to incentivize users to try the new service, Uber Eats will also offer free delivery on users' first three orders with SNAP benefits.
The expansion into SNAP and EBT follows Uber Eats' continued growth over the last few years. Several major retailers have debuted on the platform in the last several months, including craft store Michael's, the Home Depot, Petco, Dick's Sporting Goos and Five Below.
We'll see what the future holds for Uber Eats, but the new move to accept both SNAP and EBT shows that the company is looking to expands its reach to as many poential new customers as possible.
Colin Farrell Says ‘You Better Believe’ He Worried 'The Penguin' Wouldn’t Be Released
Colin Farrell may need to make a bit more space in his display case after the 2025 Emmy nominees were announced.
After taking home a Golden Globe and Critics' Choice award for his role as Oswald 'Oz' Cobb (Penguin) in The Penguin, Farrell is now an Emmy nominee for the Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie.
The hit series on HBO Max has earned rave reviews from critics and fans. However, Farrell dropped a surprising tidbit about The Penguin during a recent interview, explaining that there were times he didn't think the show would even be seen.
In an interview with Variety, Farrell referenced the six-month strike between writers and actors, but also criticized the production of the movie Batgirl, which was subsequently canceled.
Cristin Milioti and Colin Farrell attend 'The Penguin' FYC Event at Paramount Theatre.Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic for HBO
On whether Farrell ever had a moment he thought The Penguin might never make it to television:
"Yeah, a couple [moments], like the during the strike. And in a world where they can make a “Batgirl” film and then just can it," Farrell said. "...I don’t understand it — the debits and credits and ledgers and, f--king, all that stuff — but they can decide that it’s economically advantageous to just shelve a $90 million film that people have put so much effort into it."
"You better believe it. When we were in the middle of the strike, I remember saying to my sister, “I don’t know if we’re gonna go back to this. I don’t know if we’re gonna finish it.” I did get nervous."
It's an eye-opening admission from Farrell, especially considering the response The Penguin received. The show boasts a stellar 95 percent average critic rating on Rotten Tomatoes and an 85 percent rating from fans.
Farrell's statement also poses the question of what other movies or shows may have been pulled during the strike. Regardless, The Penguin made it to air and didn't disappoint when it got there.
Related: Tom Cruise Reveals Shocking Number of Movies He’s Working on Right Now
July 15, 2025
Sony Shuts Down 'Married… With Children' Reboot Plans
After years of speculation and quiet delays, Sony Pictures Television has made it official. The planned animated reboot of Married… With Children is off the table.
Originally announced in May 2022, the project had all the right ingredients: the return of the original cast, including Ed O’Neill, Katey Sagal, Christina Applegate, and David Faustino, and the backing of Family Guy executive producer Alex Carter.
But despite the promising setup, the reboot is no longer in development, according to TVLine.
While Sony didn’t explain exactly why the series stalled, the company insists the show “remains very important” to them—a statement that leaves a faint glimmer of hope but little else for fans.
It’s a frustrating end to a revival that seemed like a sure thing for fans of the iconic television show.
The original Married… With Children ran for 11 seasons between 1987 and 1997, becoming one of FOX’s most iconic sitcoms. Its sharp-edged humor, unapologetic characters, and offbeat family dynamic turned it into a cult classic that still draws viewers on streaming platforms like Peacock, Hulu, and Pluto TV, GeekSided reported.
This isn’t Sony’s first failed attempt at resurrecting the Bundy family. Years ago, a Bud Bundy spin-off starring David Faustino also fizzled before making it to air.
With a wave of ’80s and ’90s reboots flooding TV, this animated project seemed like a smart move, especially with the original cast on board. But whatever stalled it behind the scenes, it’s clear this reboot won’t be joining the list of nostalgia-fueled TV comebacks anytime soon.
For now, fans will have to settle for streaming the original series and wondering what could have been. All 11 seasons of the nostalgic sitcom are available to stream on Peacock right now.
Related: 'Actually HBO Max.' Beloved Streaming Service Rebrand Hits a Snag
Coca-Cola Makes a Bold Move With Electric Delivery Trucks
Coca-Cola just took a small but symbolic step toward a greener future, and it’s happening in a place most people wouldn’t expect.
The Cool Down reported that the company’s European-Pacific division unveiled Papua New Guinea’s first fleet of fully electric delivery trucks. The iconic brand teamed up with local shipping company Express Freight Management to launch five EVs. Four of the trucks will operate out of Coca-Cola’s plant in Lae, with the fifth serving its facility in Port Moresby.
“These trucks are not only an investment in sustainability but also in efficiency and innovation,” said Coca-Cola Europacific Partners Sales Director Tim Solly. “They will help us streamline operations, reduce fuel dependence, and contribute to cleaner air in the cities and communities we serve.”
For Coca-Cola, this marks another move in a slow but steady effort to chip away at its massive global footprint.
In recent years, the beverage giant has launched recycling projects in Sri Lanka, water initiatives in India, and billion-dollar sustainability investments in Brazil.
But Coca-Cola’s record on environmental issues is still a mixed bag. The company remains the world’s largest producer of branded plastic waste—a title it’s held for six straight years.
It’s also battling a class action lawsuit in California over its soda ingredients and facing an antitrust investigation in Turkey.
Related: Coca-Cola Investigation Could Shake Up the Beverage Industry
Even so, the launch of electric trucks in Papua New Guinea is a win for both the company and a region known for its delicate ecosystems. It also signals what could become a larger shift in how Coca-Cola approaches its global logistics.
“This partnership with CCEP is a proud moment for EFM,” said Express Freight Management executive director Robert Howden. “Together, we are setting a new benchmark for logistics in Papua New Guinea. These electric trucks represent our shared vision for a more sustainable future.”
While it may not erase Coca-Cola’s environmental issues, the move shows that even the world’s biggest brands are feeling the pressure to change. Whether this is a small spark or the start of a larger shift remains to be seen.
Related: Coca-Cola Lawsuit Could Impact the Entire Wellness Industry
Osteoarchaeologist Uncovers Shocking Link Between Brain Condition and Neanderthals
Modern humans may owe more to Neanderthals than just a few genetic quirks, and in at least one case, that inheritance might come with serious health risks.
A new study suggests that Chiari malformation type I, a brain abnormality that affects up to 1 in 100 people, may be tied to DNA inherited from Neanderthals. The condition happens when the lower part of the brain extends into the spinal canal, often causing severe headaches, neck pain, and other complications.
Researchers had long suspected that interbreeding between Homo sapiens and ancient hominin species could play a role in the shape mismatch between the brain and skull that leads to this defect. But this new research points a finger squarely at Neanderthals, not other early human relatives like Homo erectus or Homo heidelbergensis.
Led by osteoarchaeologist Kimberly Plomp at the University of the Philippines, Science Alert reports the team used 3D modeling and skull shape analysis on more than 100 modern human skulls, comparing those with Chiari malformation to those without. They also examined eight fossil skulls from ancient species, including Neanderthals.
Their finding? Only the skulls of Neanderthals showed a similarity to the bone structure of modern people with Chiari malformations, especially in the area where the brain meets the spine.
This challenges an earlier theory from 2013 that broadly connected the defect to multiple ancient human species.
Instead, researchers now propose what they’re calling the Neanderthal Introgression Hypothesis, suggesting the condition may trace specifically back to Neanderthal ancestry.
The next step is expanding the study to include more skull samples and testing across different populations. Since African groups have far less Neanderthal DNA than European or Asian groups, future research could reveal patterns in how widespread the condition is based on genetic inheritance.
Ultimately, understanding this ancient connection could offer new insight into diagnosing and possibly preventing Chiari malformations. The researchers believe their methods could help unravel the causes of the condition and lead to better treatment options.
Related: Archaeologists Unearth Dinosaur Fossil in Incredibly Ironic Location
Man Loses 110 Pounds With 1 'Simple' Change After Breaking Chair in Public Place
For years, Simon Furness lived on a steady diet of takeout, sugar, and late-night orders from his phone. Weighing 350 pounds, the 57-year-old from Northwich, England, battled type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, and depression. But it wasn’t a health scare that finally pushed him to make a change It was a broken chair.
Daily Mail reported that in October 2024, Furness was sitting in a dentist’s office when the chair beneath him gave out, sending him crashing to the floor and injuring his hand on the twisted metal.
“I felt terrible and disgusted,” he said. “It was a real wake-up call.”
Until that point, Furness’s eating habits were out of control. His regular order included a special curry with fried rice, a massive portion of chips, and often a starter—on top of daily staples like half a loaf of bread, cans of soup, candy, kebab meat, and a full pizza. He estimates he spent around $150 a week on takeout alone.
“I didn’t go to bed for three years,” he said, describing how he slept upright in his chair because of his health issues. “All the money I had was going on food.”
He tried dieting before—Weight Watchers, Slimming World—but nothing stuck. That changed when he signed up for a meal delivery service, Mindful Chef. For the first time, something clicked.
“It’s just been a total diet change,” he said.
Breakfast is now fruit. Lunch is a salad wrap. Dinner is a healthy, balanced meal. Gone are the massive portions and constant takeout orders.
Eight months later, Furness has lost 112 pounds, and he’s not done yet. He’s aiming to hit around 220 pounds, a goal that feels within reach for the first time in years.
But the biggest win? Getting his life back. He’s no longer a spectator in his own story.
“I’m doing proper things like a granddad should do,” he said of spending more active time with his seven grandchildren. “I’m loving it.”
Related: Want Better Sleep or More Energy? Time Your Showers Right
'Superman' David Corenswet Met His Wife When They Were Teenagers
Long before becoming the Man of Steel in this summer's blockbuster remake of Superman, David Corenswet met his Lois Lane.
Corenswet and fellow actor/producer Julia Best Warner have been married since March 2023. The couple welcomed their first child, a daughter, in 2024.
But Corenswet, 32, and Warner have known each other since they were teenagers, according to People.
The couple were both raised in Pennsylvania.
They first met when they were both students at Upper Darby Summer Stage, a Pennsylvania summer theater program also attended by Tina Fey, according to People.
Corenswet said in a June 2025 interview that their love was a "slow burn" before they decided to settle down together.
Like her husband, Warner has appeared in numerous television series and films.
Credits include Pretty Little Things, Deadly Devotion, and The Baby Sitters Pub, according to her .
In 2020, Warner played a nurse on the Netflix horror series Ratched.
Meanwhile, Corenswet, a Juilliard graduate, was making a name for himself in breakout roles, including the Netflix Series The Politician and Hollywood.
In 2019, he told Entertainment Weekly his “pie in the sky ambition” was to play Superman.
“I said it was my pie in the sky ambition, which I meant to mean that there was no (expletive) way it was ever going to happen,” Corenswet told the Associated Press this year. “I sort of was thinking of it as, ‘Oh, who wouldn’t love to get to play an iconic role like that? Wouldn’t it be amazing and impossible if we lived in a universe where that could even be considered?’”
Just as he landed the role, Corenswet found out he was going to be a father.
Corenswet's own father died in 2019 and was sick with cancer for much of Corenswet’s life, according to USA Today.
The actor brought his childhood experience and his new job as a father to his Superman role.
“Superman has a wonderful innocence about him, especially in this film. He's a little earlier in his career. He's not a grown man yet. He doesn't have kids yet. He has some stuff to learn about that,” Corenswet told USA Today. “Both Superman and me, we share the thing of wanting to be someone that people come to in their darker moments, not just in their moments of celebration. We can be a force for calm and reassurance and centeredness even in the most tumultuous times in life.”
The 2 Nutrition Label Details Strength Coaches Watch When They Want to Drop Fat Fast
In today’s world, where processed foods are everywhere and ingredient lists read like science experiments, it can be tough to figure out what you should be eating, especially if you're trying to lose weight. Sure, people love to say “just stick to whole foods,” but when you're running between work meetings and your kid’s soccer game, sometimes you just need something quick.
Don't get us wrong, though, grabbing a packaged snack every now and then isn’t a dealbreaker. The key is knowing what to look for. For starters, we suggest trying to find options made with real ingredients, a list that isn’t pushing double digits, and ideally something that actually expires. If it can survive a nuclear winter, maybe skip it. Also, avoid labels claiming to be “healthy” or “low-fat,” as these are generally just marketing tactics.
In a recent video with Steven Bartlett, Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist and ATHLEAN-X founder Jeff Cavaliere also laid out the two things he always looks for if he's trying to drop fat fast.
"I always look for sugar and fat," he says. "So [with] dietary fat, there are nine calories per gram of fat versus four calories per gram of protein or carbohydrate. They're a much more calorie-dense food."
While Cavaliere points out that fat isn't inherently bad (some fat is actually essential for overall health), it is calorie-dense. That means the more fat something contains, the higher its calorie count tends to be.
"When you have fats on your plate in any way, shape, or form, calorically that dish is going to increase pretty quickly," he says. "So you have to be mindful of them if you if you want to lose weight and achieve a hypocaloric state. To get there, you're going to have to take in fewer calories than you're burning, that's why I would look at fat content."
Sugar, on the other hand, is something Cavaliere tries to avoid altogether. While he isn’t against the ingredient itself, he points out that our bodies don’t actually need it, and eating too much of it regularly can do more harm than good.
"Sugar is just one of those things that our bodies do not need and tends to be too inviting to the point where people have a hard time stopping eating [it]," he says. "So I think that's one of the fastest ways to get yourself on track is to try to minimize the sugar content in the food."
To keep hunger and cravings in check, Cavaliere tries to stick to high-protein foods. That might sound tough if you're always on the go, but having simple options like boiled eggs, protein shakes, or clean beef or turkey jerky on hand can make a big difference.
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