Entertainment

Finn Little Reveals Taylor Sheridan's Role in ‘Dutton Ranch’ (Exclusive)

  When Finn Little joined the cast of Yellowstone in 2021 he had no idea that he was in for the ride of his life. Not only was he promoted to regular cast member rather quickly, but he landed a starring role in the new spinoff series Dutton Ranch, which premieres later this week. Woman’s […]

Natalie Alyn Lind opens up about ‘Dutton Ranch’ 

Lind was announced as a Dutton Ranch cast member several months ago. She plays Oreana, a friend of Carter’s (Finn Little). Prior to this show, she was in The Goldbergs (2013 to 2023), Tell Me A Story (2019 to 2020), Big Sky (2020 to 2021). Natalie Alyn Lind was announced as part of the Dutton Ranch cast several months ago and plays Oreana, a friend of Carter (Finn Little). Before joining the expanding Yellowstone universe, Lind built a strong television resume with roles on The Goldbergs (2013 to 2023), Tell Me a Story (2019 to 2020) and Big Sky (2020 to 2021).

“I was a huge fan of the show [Yellowstone], so going in and being able to be a part of it definitely felt surreal from the beginning,” Lind tells Woman’s World of joining the Dutton Ranch cast. “There’s a lot of hesitation about starting a new franchise that’s already a part of one, but I’m so happy with how the show turned out. It’s an honor to be a part of it now.” 

One reason for that hesitation? Cole Hauser and Kelly Reilly! When asked about how she felt about joining a show centered around them and their dynamic, she said had “hesitation at the beginning, because I’m a fan of the franchise, but the moment that I got on set, it just all kind of melted away. It was such an amazing experience.” 

“There’s nothing more freeing than being in the middle of Texas on horseback,” she added. “It’s beautiful, and it’s just such a peaceful feeling.” 

Natalie Alyn Lind shares some on set secrets 

While audiences often picture Hollywood sets as nonstop excitement, Natalie Alyn Lind says part of the reality involves plenty of waiting around as well. Discussing her experience on the Sheridan series, she joked that she spent “hours and hours in hair and makeup.”

Another place she spent a lot of time? Craft services! 

“I would try something new every day. There’s not like one thing that I would consistently eat,” Lind says. “There was one day that [someone] gave me a cup of the chocolate espresso beans, and I had a couple of those. And I swear to God, it was just all in my teeth for, like, hours, and I couldn’t get it out.” 

Entertainment

Cole Hauser Reveals His Favorite Coffee Blend (Exclusive)

Coffee and Cole Hauser?! Count us in! While walking the Dutton Ranch red carpet, the 51-year-old actor—best known for his work as Rip Wheeler in Taylor Sheridan’s hit series Yellowstone—stopped and chatted with Woman’s World about his coffee company, Free Rein. He also revealed which coffee is his favorite and shared details about some of […]

Natalie Alyn Lind reveals her favorite Taylor Sheridan show

Sheridan has numeroushit shows and movies to his credit, and while Dutton Ranch, as well as the whole Yellowstone universe, hold a special place in Lind’s heart, she said that Landman is her favorite show. That’s right, she loves the Texas-based oil drama that stars Sam Elliott, Billy Bob Thornton, Ali Larter and more. 

She also said that if given the chance, she would love to do a crossover with them, which would make sense since both shows are set in Texas. 

“100 percent,” Lind assured. “I love it.” 

Be sure to catch Natalie Alyn Lind as Oreana in Dutton Ranch, which premieres Friday May 15 on Paramount and Paramount+.

Ready for more? Subscribe to our YouTube channel for video podcasts, health tips and uplifting stories designed for women 40, 50, 60 and beyond.

*Spoilers ahead!*

Riley Green was introduced in Marshals as Garrett, a former NAVY Seal who served alongside Kayce, but his character met a tragic end in the most recent episode when he succumbed to his injuries after a fire. While Luke Grimes and Riley Green may no longer share the screen, the duo share a unique friendship rooted in a love for music and mutual respect. Here, read all about the relationship between this duo. 

Entertainment

The Truth About Riley Green and Ella Langley's Relationship

Ever since Riley Green and Ella Langley collaborated on the song “You Look Like You Love Me,” their bond has been strong—and with the ACM Awards just around the corner, airing on May 17 on Prime Video, their support for one another is clear as day. At this year’s ceremony, Ella Langley is nominated for […]

Luke Grimes and Riley Green friendship

Grimes and Green first crossed paths in Nashville as Grimes was pursuing his music career. As Luke Grimes recalled in conversation with Taste of Country, they had met at a Nashville bar called Losers, and after some time, they had eventually started throwing around the possibility of writing some music together.

When they got together to write, Green had expressed a desire to act, and being that Marshals was moving forward, Luke had the idea to bring him along for the ride. 

Even though Grimes put in a good word for Green, he still had to go forward with a traditional audition—and Green was glad he didn’t get any special treatment from his close pal.

“I’m the new guy here,” he told Decider. “Certainly, because I’ve had a music career doesn’t mean that I’m any good at acting. So, I was glad that I got to go read, because it gave me a little confidence that they said, ‘Okay, you’re good enough to do it,’ because I had no clue if I was going to be any good.”

And the rest is history! “I guess that doesn’t happen all the time, where the star of the show sits in with somebody trying out for a part,” Green told USA Today. “But man, I’ve got to be such good friends with Luke, and it makes it so much easier to step into a world that I wasn’t necessarily comfortable in.”

Though fans said goodbye to Garrett on Marshals, the friendship between Luke Grimes and Riley Green is one story that’s far from over. These two talented artists have found something special in each other—a bond that transcends music and acting and speaks to the kind of genuine camaraderie we all hope to find.

Entertainment

Finn Little Reveals Taylor Sheridan's Role in ‘Dutton Ranch’ (Exclusive)

  When Finn Little joined the cast of Yellowstone in 2021 he had no idea that he was in for the ride of his life. Not only was he promoted to regular cast member rather quickly, but he landed a starring role in the new spinoff series Dutton Ranch, which premieres later this week. Woman’s […]

What to know about Cole Hauser’s coffee company 

In August 2023, Hauser announced he was co-founding a Western-inspired coffee company called Free Rein with his friends Paul Anderson, Aron Marquez and Karl Pfluger. The goal was to create a brand that “embodies the hardworking spirit and open promise of the American West,” as per the company’s press release. 

“I am excited that the news is finally out there on something special I have been working on for years,” Hauser told The Hollywood Reporter at the time. “I hope this company and its message inspires men and women from all walks of life to get up and chase after their dreams and ambitions. Remember, dreams don’t work unless you do!”

Since then, the brand has expanded their offerings. They now sell coffee, mugs, stickers, shirts and more. They also offer a variety of discounts and specials, which give military members, veterans, first responders, nurses and teachers discounts during celebrations like Teacher Appreciation Week, Nurses Week and Veterans Day. 

“Free Rein is for anyone who gets up and works like a cowboy, gets up and chases a dream or gets up and just feels like having a d-mn good cup of coffee,” Hauser wrote on Instagram in 2023. “I’m proud to announce that I’ve decided to start a coffee company inspired by these men and women who wake up before dawn. Not because it’s easy, but because it’s hard.” 

Cole Hauser reveals his coffee order 

Free Rein offers a variety of coffee bean flavors, including Choconela, Buckskin, Homestead, Texas Pecan, Spurless, Prospect, Snake Bite Blend, Texas Heat, Kona, Venom and Whiskey Reserve. 

Hauser’s favorite is the American Dirt blend. 

“That’s my mix,” he tells Woman’s World. 

According to the Free Rein website, American Dirt is a “ full-bodied dark roast that doesn’t hold back. Made with 100% Arabica beans, it delivers deep flavor, rich undertones and a dark chocolate finish.” 

It’s available as whole beans, ground coffee and pods.

Entertainment

Kelly Reilly Teases What Happens in the ‘Dutton Ranch’ Premiere

Kelly Reilly and Cole Hauser are opening up about their new show Dutton Ranch. In a recent interview with People magazine, the two talked about when they actually started filming, what the dynamics were like on set and more. Below, we recap what they had to say.  Kelly Reilly and Cole Hauser open up about […]

Cole Hauser discusses his merch

Along with coffee, Free Rein also offers a variety of merchandise, some of which features Hauser’s face. 

“[I love] the one that says ‘Coffee doesn’t ask stupid questions in the morning,’” the actor says. 

You can purchase bags of Free Rein coffee beans and boxes of their pods online or at select grocery stores, coffee shops and Walmart stores. To find it near you, click here! 

Be sure to watch Cole Hauser as Rip Wheeler in Dutton Ranch, which airs on Friday, May 15 on Paramount and Paramount +. 

Ready for more? Subscribe to our YouTube channel for video podcasts, health tips and uplifting stories designed for women 40, 50, 60 and beyond.

“I’m running out of time. I haven’t very many years left—certainly not decades. So things I’ve always thought, ‘I’ll do that one day,’ I better damn well do them now,” Leith says.

At 86, Leith isn’t slowing down—she’s changing direction. The celebrated chef, writer and restaurateur wants more: more travel, more time with family and more freedom to create the projects she’s most passionate about.

In her new book Being Old… and Learning to Love It, Leith explores the realities and taboos of aging, along with its unexpected joys. She opens up about grief, falling in love again in her 70s and what it means to live boldly at every stage of life.

Watch What Matters with Liz Episode 13 here or listen on Spotify, Amazon Music and Apple Podcasts. 

Watch Episode 13 right here! ‘What Matters with Prue Leith: Being Old, Staying Curious & Loving Life’ 

Entertainment

'What Matters With Liz' Ep. 10: Jennie Garth on 'I Choose Me' in Midlife

Jennie Garth— you know her as Kelly Taylor from Beverly Hills, 90210. But in this conversation, you’ll meet the woman behind the role – one who’s far more complex, introspective, and insightful. In this episode of What Matters with Liz, Garth, 54, explains how her iconic 90210 line, “I choose me” developed a new meaning […]

In this episode, Prue Leith shares:

• Behind-the-scenes stories from The Great British Baking Show
• The real reason she’s leaving the show
• Her advice to Nigella Lawson
• A tour of her Cotswolds kitchen
• Her biggest career failure—and the lesson it taught her
• Her secret to living with energy and enthusiasm at any age
• How she grieved the loss of her first husband and found love again
• The question you should never ask a widow
• What it’s like to fall in love in your 70s
• Her advice for living boldly and joyfully
• Her one regret
• Why she believes the greatest sin is boredom
• The places she still wants to visit
• Why she loves color
• How women can embrace fashion in their later years
• Which of her books is her favorite—and which one could become a movie
• What she’s most excited about in her next chapter

Entertainment

‘What Matters With Liz’ Episode 12: Amy Grant Talks Finding Hope in Healing

Amy Grant has six Grammy Awards, 26 Dove Awards, and a music career that spans genres and generations. But this conversation isn’t about awards and accolades. It’s about what happens when life cracks us wide open and we face unimaginable struggles. It’s about embracing stillness and looking inward for answers…and the freedom and strength that […]

The lessons of a long, full life

Leith doesn’t shy away from the harder chapters. She speaks openly about her biggest career failure and the lesson it taught her—a reminder that even the most accomplished lives are built on setbacks as much as successes. She also reflects on her one regret, a rare moment of vulnerability from a woman known for her confidence.

Throughout the conversation, she returns to a theme that animates everything she does: the importance of staying engaged with the world.

“The greatest sin is boredom,” she says. And: “You’ll only be happy if you’re curious.”

It’s a conviction that has clearly guided her choices—and it’s one worth tucking away for ourselves.

Entertainment

'What Matters With Liz' Ep 11: How Kate Bowler's Cancer at 35 Led to Joy

Kate Bowler—you may know her as the five-time New York Times bestselling author, Duke University professor and host of the podcast Everything Happens. But in this conversation, you’ll meet the woman behind the work: a sharp-eyed researcher and self-described “small talk survivor” whose insight into joy was forged in the most unlikely of places. In […]

A simple recipe for living well

Asked what she’s most excited about in this next chapter, Leith returns to a beautifully simple framework. Her advice for living boldly and joyfully comes down to a few essentials, captured in a line that feels like both a recipe and a philosophy:

“Eat well, sleep well and love well.”

Those are things we can all strive for—at any age. And if Prue Leith’s example is any guide, the best chapters of our lives may very well be the ones still ahead. 

What Matters with Liz airs every Wednesday on YouTube, Spotify, Amazon Music and Apple Podcasts, with highlights and behind-the-scenes clips shared on Instagram and Facebook. 

Also, be sure to subscribe to the What Matters With Liz free newsletter from Woman’s World Editor-in-Chief Liz Vaccariello. Every week, you’ll get real talk about health, money and entertainment, plus uplifting stories, practical tips and exclusive updates on Vaccariello’s new video podcast.

When Finn Little joined the cast of Yellowstone in 2021 he had no idea that he was in for the ride of his life. Not only was he promoted to regular cast member rather quickly, but he landed a starring role in the new spinoff series Dutton Ranch, which premieres later this week. Woman’s World recently sat down with the actor to discuss his on screen journey and learn more about the on-set dynamics—including how involved Taylor Sheridan is. Read on for more. 

Entertainment

Kelly Reilly Teases What Happens in the ‘Dutton Ranch’ Premiere

Kelly Reilly and Cole Hauser are opening up about their new show Dutton Ranch. In a recent interview with People magazine, the two talked about when they actually started filming, what the dynamics were like on set and more. Below, we recap what they had to say.  Kelly Reilly and Cole Hauser open up about […]

Finn Little opens up about his time in the ‘Yellowstone’ universe 

Little is a 19 year old Australian actor, who has recently become a teen sensation. In Yellowstone and Dutton Ranch, Little plays Carter, Beth Dutton (Kelly Reilly) and Rip Wheeler’s (Cole Hauser) adopted son. He first appeared on screen in Season 4 as a troubled kid in need of help. Beth and Rip take him in, help him shape up and eventually they become one happy family. That dynamic is expected to continue in Dutton Ranch, with the only change being their location—in Yellowstone the family lived in Montana and in Dutton Ranch they relocated to Texas. 

“It was awesome [working on Dutton Ranch]. It was so amazing,” Little tells Woman’s World. “I always enjoyed going back to Yellowstone and being back on set, doing what I love to do, so being back on Dutton Ranch was just the same.”

While on set, Little says that he spent a lot of time in hair and makeup. He also loved being near craft service tables, but only if they had Oreos. 

“I don’t like to admit that because it gets in my teeth,” he jokes. 

Finn Little shares what it’s like working with Kelly Reilly and Cole Hauser 

Since he’s Beth and Rip’s son, most of Little’s scenes in Yellowstone revolved around them. And while he does get more of a storyline in Dutton Ranch, Little can still be found with his parents eating dinner, working on the range or just getting into some good old fashioned Dutton trouble, 

“It’s great to be back working with them again,” he says of Reilly and Hauser. “I’ve worked with them since I was 14, so I got very close and we’ve got a very comfortable relationship on set.” 

Entertainment

Meet the Cast of the Beth & Rip 'Yellowstone' Spinoff 'Dutton Ranch’

Fans of Yellowstone have been waiting for news on the Beth Dutton and Rip Wheeler spinoff—and now, Dutton Ranch is finally starting to take shape. While details about the story are still under wraps, the cast is coming together in a big way, including two Oscar nominees joining the series. Kelly Reilly as Beth Dutton […]

Finn Little reveals what Taylor Sheridan’s role in ‘Dutton Ranch’ was 

When it comes to the Yellowstone universe it’s hard not to think of Sheridan. After all, he did create the entire thing, including Beth, Rip and Carter. Despite that, Little says that Sheridan wasn’t as involved with Dutton Ranch as he was with Yellowstone, surprising given that the show is a spinoff of Sheridan’s original work. 

“My understanding is he’s just an executive producer,” Little says. “No writing on this one.” 

Finn Little spills on if he would ever become a real cowboy 

In Yellowstone and Dutton Ranch, Little’s character Carter is working on becoming a real cowboy, just like his adoptive father Rip. And while Little himself has gone through all of the training, he doesn’t consider himself a real cowboy yet. He does note that he would love to become one if given the chance. 

“I can’t claim to be a cowboy, but I can see what some of the wranglers on set do, and it’s hard work,” he says. 

Be sure to catch Finn Little as Carter in Dutton Ranch, which premieres Friday May 15 on Paramount and Paramount+.

Ready for more? Subscribe to our YouTube channel for video podcasts, health tips and uplifting stories designed for women 40, 50, 60 and beyond.

Leading the nominations are four of the most influential female artists in country music right now: Megan Moroney, Miranda Lambert, Ella Langley and Lainey Wilson. Here, find out which awards they’re nominated for and what they’ve been up to leading up to the ACM Awards. 

Entertainment

Who Should Win ACM Entertainer of the Year? You Decide

The Academy of Country Music Awards—or ACM Awards—are quickly approaching, airing live on May 17 at 8 p.m. EST on Prime Video. This ceremony honors the biggest names in country music who have left their mark on the genre and industry over the last year, and one of the most coveted awards of the night […]

Megan Moroney leads the way with nine nominations

Megan Moroney made waves with her latest record, Cloud 9, but it’s her work off of her previous album, Am I Okay?, that’s earning her recognition at this year’s awards.

Moroney is nominated this year for Entertainer of the Year, Female Artist of the Year, Song of the Year (“Am I Okay?”), Single of the Year (“6 Months Later”), Music Event of the Year (“You Had To Be There” by Megan Moroney and Kenny Chesney), Visual Media of the Year (“6 Months Later”) and Artist-Songwriter of the Year. Megan received one of her nominations as both an artist and songwriter and another nomination as both an artist and director. 

Entertainment

Riley Green's Dating History: What We Know About His Love Life

Every once in a while, a new, hunky country musician jumps onto the scene and steals hearts. Whether it’s the cowboy hat, accent, swoon-worthy lyrics or overall charm, who can resist? One crooner that’s been on people’s radar over the last year is none other than Alabama native Riley Green, and once you hear his […]

Miranda Lambert follows her with eight

Miranda Lambert has been on the country music scene for years, and racking up eight ACM nominations, it’s clear she isn’t going anywhere.

The “Tin Man” singer is nominated for Female Artist of the Year, Song of the Year (“A Song to Sing” by Miranda Lambert and Chris Stapleton), Music Event of the Year (“A Song to Sing” by Miranda Lambert and Chris Stapleton),  Music Event of the Year (“Trailblazer” by Reba McEntire, Miranda Lambert and Lainey Wilson) and Visual Media of the Year (“A Song to Sing” by Miranda Lambert and Chris Stapleton).

Ella Langley is nominated for seven ACM awards

The “Choosin’ Texas” singer has taken the country music world by storm over the last few years, so it doesn’t come as a surprise that she’s in the top three this year. At the 2026 ACM Awards, Ella is nominated for Female Artist of the Year, Single of the Year (“Choosin’ Texas”), Music Event of the Year (“Don’t Mind If I Do” by Riley Green featuring Ella Langley) and Artist-Songwriter of the Year.

Entertainment

The Truth About Riley Green and Ella Langley's Relationship

Ever since Riley Green and Ella Langley collaborated on the song “You Look Like You Love Me,” their bond has been strong—and with the ACM Awards just around the corner, airing on May 17 on Prime Video, their support for one another is clear as day. At this year’s ceremony, Ella Langley is nominated for […]

Lainey Wilson also has seven noms

Lainey Wilson has left her mark on the ACM Awards in the past, and this year, she’s back and ready to prove her luck hasn’t run out. Wilson previously took home the award for Entertainer of the Year, and this year, she’s nominated in the category yet again. She’s also nominated for Female Artist of the Year, Song of the Year (“Somewhere Over Laredo”), Single of the Year (“Somewhere Over Laredo”), Music Event of the Year (“Trailblazer” by Reba McEntire, Miranda Lambert and Lainey Wilson) and Visual Media of the Year (“Somewhere Over Laredo”). 

Entertainment

The Truth About Riley Green and Ella Langley's Relationship

Ever since Riley Green and Ella Langley collaborated on the song “You Look Like You Love Me,” their bond has been strong—and with the ACM Awards just around the corner, airing on May 17 on Prime Video, their support for one another is clear as day. At this year’s ceremony, Ella Langley is nominated for […]

Shania Twain and Robert ‘Mutt’ Lange marry in 1993

Before Shania found her forever love in Frédéric, she and music producer Robert John “Mutt” Lange had gotten together. When Mutt heard Shania’s first album, he became interested in working with her, and from there, romance blossomed. While together, the couple welcomed a son, Eja, but things eventually took a sour, traumatic turn. When Shania, Mutt and their son took a trip to Switzerland, she went on to hire Marie-Anne Thiébaud to assist her with her daily tasks and help care for her household. Over time, Shania and Marie-Anne formed a close friendship, with Marie-Anne’s husband at the time, Frédéric Thiébaud, even becoming a part of her and her family’s life. 

Several years into their marriage, Robert John “Mutt” Lange approached his wife, informing her that he wished for a divorce—and Shania eventually learned that it was his affair with her close friend Marie-Anne that prompted his decision. 

“It was a very low period in my life,” the singer told People back in 2022. “I found peace a long time ago, and maybe peace is forgiveness, you know? I’m able to have more appreciation for him again, not for what happened in our marriage, but for all that he contributed to such a great part of my career and my life. We have a beautiful child from it. The resentment is gone.”

Shania Twain found comfort—and love—in Frédéric

Shania wasn’t the only one who suffered in the wake of this affair—as Marie-Anne’s husband, Frédéric Thiébaud, was just as rattled by it and was ultimately the one who revealed the betrayal to the singer. However, something good eventually came out of the situation. 

“We slowly became very, very good friends,” Shania revealed on The Ellen Show back in 2011. “We had many months of just trying to make sense of everything, holding each other up. It was a very difficult time emotionally for both of us. I would say he was probably stronger through it than I was. He was a tremendous support. We were a support to each other, and really found something very beautiful in the end and unexpected.”

In 2011, the couple got married and have been happily together ever since. As Shania prepares to host the ACM Awards this weekend, fans are celebrating not just her career achievements but her personal triumph as well. Today, Shania and Frédéric continue to build their beautiful life together, proving that even after the deepest heartbreak, love can find a way. 

You can buy tickets for the ACM Awards and its associated events at this link right here. 

The ‘Happy Days’ star returned to his alma mater with wisdom to share

When Winkler stepped onto the stage Saturday in his black graduation gown, he was returning to familiar territory. He is a proud alum of the performing arts college, as a member of the class of 1967. He later earned his MFA at the Yale School of Drama. And he did it all while living with dyslexia, which can make reading and comprehending printed information a challenge. This learning difference taught him to find creative solutions and trust his instincts.

During his 15-minute speech, he didn’t stay rooted at the podium. Like a true actor using his studio space, he roamed around the stage, talking into a headset microphone, gesticulating with his arms and showing off his flair for performance that comes with 80 years of living fully. He opened with, “I’m going to tell you a little bit about my life and what I’ve learned, and maybe you can identify.”

His advice couldn’t come at a better time. Whether you’re navigating a career change, supporting adult children or simply wondering if it’s too late to pursue a dream you’ve set aside, Winkler’s message is clear: It’s never too late. Here are seven powerful details from his speech. Keep reading to hear Winkler’s sage advice…

Follow your dreams even when others don’t understand

“I grew up in New York City,” Winkler explained. “I wanted to be an actor.” The problem: His German father wanted his son to take over the family’s lumber business. “The only wood I was interested in was Hollywood,” Winkler explained. “Of course, my parents were not happy with me at all. I embarrassed them, but I had a dream and I never let that dream out of my mind.” Somehow he knew he had to forge his own path in the world. And because he did, he left his mark on pop culture for generations.

The ‘failure’ that led to everything

Winkler’s dyslexia didn’t stop him from becoming a star. Speaking candidly about his condition, he shared, “I was told that I would never achieve. I am the bottom 3 percent academically in America. Everything [about school] except for lunch was difficult.” He revealed that he had to take (and retake) geometry four years in a row. “I finally passed it in August of 1963 with a D-. If I didn’t get that D-, I could not come to the one college that said yes out of the 28 I applied to: Emerson.” The packed graduation crowd cheered. And Winkler reiterated, “I love Emerson. They took me in, and they nurtured me.”

Live by these two words: tenacity and gratitude

“When I was growing up, my life was like a cylinder of stainless steel, no handholds, no footholds. I kept trying to pull myself up into the sun, and I kept failing at everything. And finally, finally, I pulled myself up into the sun and I started to get work in commercials.” He explained, “I live by two words: tenacity, gratitude. Tenacity will get you where you want to go, and gratitude will make you enjoy the journey, no matter how bumpy.”

Use your imagination and unique perspective

One of the most inspiring moments of the speech came when Winkler shared a story from his first hours on Happy Days—and the lesson still applies today. He said, “I go to Paramount Studios on the first day, and there it says in the script, ‘Go to the mirror, comb your hair.’ I said, ‘I don’t want to comb my hair. I want to be original. Every actor has combed their hair.’” But the bosses said go to the mirror and comb your hair. So with that signature Fonzie voice, he improvised on the spot: “I go to the mirror. I pull out my comb. Go, ‘Hey, look at that. I don’t have to, because it’s perfect.’”

Then Winkler looked at the graduation audience and explained, “This is the lesson I learned. You are not hired—no matter what you do—to fill time and space. You are hired to fill that time and space with your imagination.”

The wisdom that’s guided every major decision in his life: Listen to your gut

Winkler has learned to listen to his intuition. He advised, “Listen to your tummy. Your tummy knows everything. Your mind only knows a few things. You listen to your tummy.” He added, “You’re going to find out that you can do it, that there is no secret out there. All it is, is you and your wonderful intellect and your tummy, and you will do what you have to do.” In short: Listening to your inner wisdom won’t steer you wrong.

Henry Winkler says empathy is a superpower that gives you a rich life

Winkler, with his immense success over the years, has learned that real success comes from something that can’t be bought or collected. He knows the world can feel divided at times. “It was said in Washington not too long ago: The problem with America, we have too much empathy.” But Winkler strongly disagrees. “You can live a life. You can accomplish. You can accumulate a lot of stuff. You can fill your house and then fill your garage and fill your basement. But you cannot live a rich life if you don’t have empathy.”

The world needs your originality

Before diplomas were passed out, Winkler left graduates with this message of hope: “Every one of you is powerful. Some of you know your power. Some of you are scared of your power. Some of you haven’t touched it yet. You’re not aware it’s even there yet. And I want to tell you, you are powerful.” He urged, “In you is a great gift. And your job is to figure out what your gift is, because this world needs every single one of you. And your job is to find that gift and give it to the world. It doesn’t matter what it is. We need it. Go!”

Why Henry Winkler’s advice is resonating with people

Fans love that Winkler reinvented his career after age 40, when most other actors feel invisible or left out of casting decisions. And it felt refreshing to hear Winkler talk openly about his challenges and setbacks. It’s the kind of grounded, heartfelt advice that can help recent college graduates and people at any stage in life pursue their dreams. Winkler continues to find purpose and fulfillment. Now, just as he taught a generation how to be cool like Fonzie, he’s teaching us how to age with optimism and confidence.

As they head into this exciting weekend with fingers crossed, the love they have for one another is clear. Here, a look at their friendship. 

Entertainment

Riley Green's Dating History: What We Know About His Love Life

Every once in a while, a new, hunky country musician jumps onto the scene and steals hearts. Whether it’s the cowboy hat, accent, swoon-worthy lyrics or overall charm, who can resist? One crooner that’s been on people’s radar over the last year is none other than Alabama native Riley Green, and once you hear his […]

Riley Green and Ella Langley debunk dating rumors ahead of ACM Awards

Ever since Riley Green and Ella Langley debuted their hit track “You Look Like You Love Me,” country fans have been speculating about the nature of their relationship—but this pair has confirmed time and time again that they’re nothing more than friends.

While the song and its accompanying music video put their chemistry on full display, it’s ultimately nothing more than a close friendship they share, rooted in a mutual love for music and a similar upbringing, both being from Alabama. 

“I’m rumored to have dated a lot of people. I kind of understand that. People always long for that Tim and Faith, Johnny and June, George and Tammy thing,” Green shared on Country Nights Live! with Bev Rainey regarding their speculated romance. “Me and Ella have two giant songs together, and I think fans want to believe that what you’re singing about is real.” 

Regarding “Don’t Mind If I Do,” Ella Langley opened up in conversation with Holler about collaborating with Riley. 

“I’ve done a few duets at this point and some feature stuff, and really, for me, it’s the relationship, the connection. It’s somebody I want to create with, you know? It’s fun. That’s the whole joy of living where we live, and getting to do what we get to do, we are surrounded by people who love to do the same thing.” She continued, “Riley being from Alabama, we grew up with a lot of the same musical influences. Our hometowns are two hours apart from each other. On ‘Don’t Mind If I Do,’ he wrote that one by himself, and he just asked for me to come in the green room and see how a female sounded on it, just for fun. Then I think they loved it the way we did it—so they kept it on there!”

Ella Langley and Riley Green enjoy some friendly ACM competition

While Riley and Ella are nominated in one category together, the two are up for the same award in the Artist-Songwriter of the Year category—but there’s nothing but friendly competition between the two.

“Me and Ella have had a lot of success together over the last couple of years. I’m so happy to see how she’s doing in country music—it’s so tough for a new artist to break through, especially a female artist,” Green told Taste of Country. “What she’s done in the last year or so is pretty amazing. To see another artist from Alabama win like that, we’ve got a lot of pride in where we’re from, so I’m really happy for her.”

As Riley and Ella head into the ACM Awards on May 17, one thing is crystal clear: their friendship is the real winner. Whether they take home trophies or not, these two Alabama natives have already proven that genuine connection and mutual respect can create magic—both on stage and off. We’ll be cheering them both on!