It’s crunch time at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with teams throughout the 48-strong field looking to stay in contention for the knockout stage or improve their placing in the round of 32.
The U.S., Mexico, Argentina, Germany, Brazil and Switzerland have already clinched spots in the round of 32 by winning their respective groups. France, Norway, Canada, Colombia, Morocco, Bosnia-Herzegovina and South Africa also are advancing. Haiti, Tunisia, Turkey, Jordan, Uzbekistan, Panama and Czechia, however, have been eliminated from knockout-round contention.
Here’s everything you need to know about World Cup matches being played Thursday and Friday across the U.S., Mexico and Canada (all times Pacific).
Thursday’s Group D matchups:
U.S. vs. Turkey
U.S. coach Mauricio Pochettino instructs his players during a 4-1 win over Paraguay at SoFi Stadium on June 12.
The buzz: There’s not much at stake since the U.S. has won the group and Turkey has been eliminated. Expect the U.S. to rest many of its regulars, especially those with yellow cards, while Turkey will be chasing its first World Cup win since 2002, when it finished third.
Paraguay vs. Australia
Paraguay midfielder Matias Galarza controls the ball against Turkey on June 19.
The buzz: The winner finishes second in the group and will go through to the elimination rounds. Australia, with an edge in goal differential, would get the second spot in the event of a draw. It’s not a do-or-die game for either team since three points could be enough to advance.
Thursday’s Group E matchups:
Ecuador vs. Germany
Germany’s Nadiem Amiri celebrates a goal against Ivory Coast on June 20.
The buzz: Germany is already through to the knockout stages while Ecuador could finish second and clinch a spot in the round of 32 with a win coupled with an Ivory Coast loss or draw. However, that would require Ivory Coast losing or drawing. A victory could send Ecuador on as a third-place team no matter what Ivory Coast does, but that path is less certain.
Curaçao vs. Ivory Coast
Curaçao’s Livano Comenencia shoots against Germany on June 14.
(Eric Gay / Associated Press)
Where: Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia Time: 1 p.m. TV: FS1, Universo
The buzz: Ivory Coast is all but through to the knockout round, at least as a third-place team. But a draw would give it the No. 2 spot in the group and an easier route through the knockout stages. Curaçao still has a chance of advancing despite having been outscored 7-1, and it could finish second with a win and an Ecuador loss.
Thursday’s Group F matchups:
Tunisia vs. Netherlands
Netherlands’ Crysencio Summerville celebrates after scoring against Sweden on June 20.
The buzz: Tunisia has lost two games under two coaches — getting outscored 9-1 in the process — and can’t advance. But there’s much at stake for the Dutch, who can finish anywhere from first to third depending on the results of the final group-stage games. The Netherlands and Japan are tied on points, wins and goal differential and played to a draw in their head-to-head match, so whoever does better on the final day wins the group.
Japan vs. Sweden
Japan’s Ayase Ueda celebrates after scoring against Tunisia on June 20.
The buzz: Both teams are assured of a top-three finish and a likely spot in the next round, but a win could secure first in the group. Although Japan and the Netherlands are the favorites to win the group, Sweden could overtake both with a win, provided the Dutch do no better than a draw.
Friday’s Group G matchups:
New Zealand vs. Belgium
Belgium midfielder Kevin De Bruyne (7), left, kicks the ball in front of Iran defender Hossein Kanaanizadegan on June 21 at SoFi Stadium.
(Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)
Where: BC Place, Vancouver Time: 8 p.m. TV: FS1, NBC Univserso
The buzz: If New Zealand earns its first-ever World Cup win, it’s mathematically possible the Kiwis could win the group. The same scenario holds for winless Belgium, however, it is still looking for its first goal of the tournament.
Iran vs. Egypt
Iran forward Alireza Jahanbakhsh, left, battles Belgium defender Maxim De Cuyper for the ball during a World Cup match at SoFi Stadium on June 21.
The buzz: Egypt entered the final day of group play atop the group and with a firm hold on a spot in the round of 32. It would win the group with a victory, although a draw could also be enough, depending on the score of the Belgium-New Zealand match. Unbeaten Iran can also win the group with a victory; a draw probably will get it to the knockout stage.
Friday’s Group H matchups:
Cape Verde vs. Saudi Arabia
Cape Verde’s Helio Varela celebrates after scoring against Uruguay at the World Cup on June 21.
The buzz: With a win here, Cape Verde would not only go through to the knockout stage, but it could win the group depending on the result of the Spain-Uruguay game. The island nation of about 530,000 people, the third-smallest country to qualify for a World Cup, is unbeaten after draws with Spain and Uruguay. Saudi Arabia is looking for its first World Cup win since upsetting eventual champion Argentina in its 2022 opener.
Uruguay vs. Spain
Spain’s Mikel Oyarzabal celebrates after a goal against Saudi Arabia in the World Cup on June 21.
The buzz: Spain will take the group with a win or draw, provided it maintains its goal-differential advantage over Cape Verde. Uruguay, however, needs a victory to finish atop the table. A third straight draw, which would leave it unbeaten, would probably be enough to see it through to the next round, but a loss will likely send Uruguay home.
Friday’s Group I matchups:
Norway vs. France
France’s Kylian Mbappé controls the ball during a win over Iraq at the World Cup on June 22.
The buzz: This game will not only decide the group winner but it could affect who wins the Golden Boot as the tournament’s top scorer. Both teams won their first two games and are on to the round of 32, and Norway’s Erling Haaland and France’s Kylian Mbappé each have scored four goals. Mbappe, whose eight goals led the tournament four years ago, already has 16 World Cup goals for his career, tied for second all-time.
Senegal vs. Iraq
Senegal’s Sadio Mane play against France in a World Cup match on June 16.
(Steve Luciano / Associated Press)
Where: BMO Field, Toronto Time: Noon TV: FS1, Universo
The buzz: Senegal and Iraq, both losers in their first two games, have a chance of advancing as a third-place team, but they need a win to make that happen. For Iraq, a victory would be its first in World Cup competition while Senegal, a quarterfinalist in 2002, would like to get a win for Sadio Mane, one of Africa’s most iconic players, who may be playing in his final World Cup.
When you live in Los Angeles, there are far worse fates than being stuck in the city all summer. Our thriving food capital draws diners out with sunlit farmers markets, midnight taco stands, multigenerational kebab shops and serene sushi dens. Community-oriented breweries, stylish wine bars and glimmering rooftop destinations round out the scene.
Whether you’re a lifelong Angeleno, new transplant or just passing through, you’ll want to get to know the 50 essential dining experiences that define eating in L.A. right now, from a pastrami sandwich at an iconic deli near MacArthur Park to a char-spotted tlayuda at a burgeoning food bazaar in West Adams and an L.A.-shaped churro from a rising Highland Park panadería.
Don’t miss our guide with nearly two-dozen new bar openings across the city. Finally, a handful of sparkling rooftops recently debuted across the city, offering vistas into neighborhoods we rarely spy from up above.
Thoughtfully compiled by our Food staff over the course of several months, we invite you to return to these lists whenever you’re seeking an answer to that perennial question: Where should I go next? — Danielle Dorsey
If You Go
(Giacomo Bagnara / For The Times)
There’s no easier way to get to know a new place than through its food. Wandering markets, eating at food stalls, sitting among locals and fellow travelers at the restaurants that embody a city. Its flavors and customs and ways of living are revealed to us over dinner or even a simple morning coffee.
And for those of us who are lucky enough to write about food for a living, traveling with an eater’s mindset gives us a deeper understanding of places we’ve read about in cookbooks and novels or seen in movies.
Each of us at L.A. Times Food keeps a running list of our favorite restaurants in some of the world’s great cities — and we want to share what we know with you. The recommendations that follow are not meant to be definitive for any given place. These are personal guides by dedicated eaters to some of the places we’ve loved during our wanderings around the globe.
If you’d like to share your own personal favorites with us, we’d love to hear from you in the comments below. — Laurie Ochoa
Former Pfizer executive David Denton steps into the CFO role amid a bruising stock decline.
Nike Inc. said Tuesday it has hired David Denton as its next chief financial officer, tapping the former Pfizer Inc. finance chief to help stabilize a company navigating one of the most difficult stretches in its history.
Denton will join the Beaverton, Oregon-based sportswear giant as Executive Vice President and CFO effective Aug. 17. Matthew Friend, who has held the role since April 2020, will step down on that date and remain in the role through Sept. 4.
Nike Dogged by Rivals, Slumping Share Price
The announcement did little to reassure investors. Nike shares fell 4.5% to close at $42.38 Tuesday, leaving the stock down 33% year to date. The company has been grappling with slowing sales and eroding market share to nimbler rivals such as On Running and Hoka.
CEO Elliott Hill, who took the helm in late 2024, has been working to arrest the slide, but a full recovery has proven elusive.
Whether Denton’s expertise can generate a turnaround remains to be seen. He previously served as CFO and Executive Vice President at Pfizer since May 2022. Before that, he held the same title at Lowe’s Cos. from 2018 to 2022. He also spent two decades at CVS Health Corp., including as CFO during the company’s evolution into a diversified health. In all, he brings more than 30 years of finance and operating leadership across large, complex public companies.
Denton, in a prepared statement, called Nike “one of the world’s great brands.”
“I’m excited to partner with Elliott and the leadership team to support the company’s priorities, invest with discipline, and help deliver sustainable long-term value,” he said.
Hill framed the transition as a strategic inflection point. “This is a natural moment for a leadership transition as we move from foundational actions to sustained growth through our Sport Offense operating model,” he said.
Friend joined Nike in 2009 and rose through roles including CFO of the Nike Brand and VP of Investor Relations before assuming the top finance post. Nike expanded his responsibilities in late 2025 to include Global Sales and Direct-to-Consumer functions.
Prior to Nike, he worked in investment banking at Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley.
What’s Next
Nike expects to report fourth-quarter and fiscal year 2026 results on June 30. Analysts anticipate earnings of $0.12 per share on revenue of $10.85 billion, compared with 14 cents per share and $11.1 billion in the prior-year period — a stark illustration of how far the company still has to go. Results will include a one-time benefit from tariff refunds that were not previously factored into the guidance.
LOOKING forward to a seaside staycation with the family this summer?
It can be hard to know where to book your next UK seaside holiday. With many Brits picking the same overcrowded spots, you can soon feel like you’re fighting for every square inch of sand on the beach.
You can stay in Wells-next-the-Sea in North Norfolk from £30 per nightCredit: AlamyOur Cornwall local recommends a trip to Boscastle, where you can walk to Willapark LookoutCredit: Getty
Luckily, there are plenty of off-the-radar stunning seaside towns and villages where you can enjoy a summer holiday without the crowds.
We’ve gathered travel insiders from Cornwall, Devon, Norfolk and Kent to share their favourite lesser-known holiday spots – with cheap pints, quiet beaches and stays from £30 a night.
Norfolk
Travel Reporter, Jenna Stevens
Jenna Stevens recommends visiting Wells-next-the-Sea for a traditional seaside breakCredit: Jenna Stevens
I grew up on the North West Norfolk coast, going quay jumping and crabbing after school with my friends.
Over the years, I’ve seen tourists flock to the same overcrowded spots time and again, while some of the prettiest towns and villages stay pretty much deserted.
While Cromer and Great Yarmouth make for great cheap and cheerful holidays, there are much prettier and less crowded options further west along the coast.
Wells-next-the-Sea is the picture-perfect seaside town. Walking down the high street, Staithe Street, feels like stepping back in time.
You’ll wander past an old-fashioned butcher’s, bakery and greengrocers on your downhill stroll towards the sea – plus plenty of trinket shops selling seashell earrings or buckets and spades.
The high street leads to the picturesque quay, where the Victorian Granary gantry jets out over the water, and you can watch fishermen haul in fresh catches throughout the day.
Here you’ll find the old-fashioned Pop Inn Amusements, a sweet shop selling giant lollies and classic sticks of rock, plus my favourite surfer dude-feel coffee shop, Wills of Wells.
Not to mention the fact that there’s a massive, golden, award-winning beach lined with colourful beach huts backed by a sprawling pine forest.
There’s a large beachside cafe too, plus you can stay by the sea at the Pinewoods Holiday Park, with camping and touring pitches from £30 per night.
While Wells is absolutely worth visiting, tourists have certainly caught on to its charm.
Further into West Norfolk, there are small towns and villages that offer true peace and quiet – where your only neighbours are grazing sheep.
Some of these best-kept secrets are Fring, Shernborne, Wolferton and Anmer.
They’re the kind of remote, rural villages perfect for a countryside walk where you won’t pass anyone but horse riders out on a hack.
You can bake your own bread at Bircham Windmill – and even camp on-siteCredit: Campsites..co.ukHand-feed the deer at Snettisham Park in West NorfolkCredit: Jenna stevens
Stay at nearby Bircham Windmill, where there are camping pitches for £36 a night.
In fact, this site makes for a fantastic family day out, where you can bake your own bread from scratch for £3.95 and climb up to the top of the mill for stunning views of the surrounding villages and fields.
Although it’s quiet, there’s plenty more to do nearby. Bottle feed lambs and hand feed deer at Snettisham Park, tour the royal grounds of Sandringham Estate, or sit down for a pint of local ale in the gloriously British pub The Rose and Crown.
Devon
Travel Reporter, Cyann Fielding
Travel Reporter Cyann Fielding recommends a stay at the new Hotel Indigo by IHG in TorquayCredit: Cyann Fielding
Devon or Cornwall? I’m here to tell you don’t need to look further than Devon – with fewer crowds, heaps of beaches and the quaintest of villages, nothing quite beats it.
As a born and bred Devonian, one spot I will always shout about is the English Riviera.
Formed of Torquay, Paignton and Brixham, the coastal towns boast an unusual micro-climate for the UK that has allowed palm trees to thrive.
Named after the French Riviera, you can expect a similar vibe but for a fraction of the price.
Stay at the newly opened £20 million seafront Hotel Indigo by IHG in Torquay from £74 per night (and there are dog-friendly rooms) – you can’t get closer to the sea with only a road separating you from the beach.
From the hotel, stroll down to Abbey Sands Beach, where you will find red-pink sand backed by a green area and the famous Torre Abbey, which you can visit for £11pp.
On the other side of Abbey Sands, walk around the harbour, which is currently under development to make it into a swish seaside hub of restaurants and cafes.
Drop by Pier Point for some fish and chips on the way – which are often voted best in the country.
The English Riviera in Devon comprises of Paignton, Brixham and TorquayCredit: Cyann FieldingVisit the beach at Woolacombe in North Devon for picturesque coastal viewsCredit: Getty
For more traditional and quieter seaside towns, head to Dawlish or Teignmouth, where you will find seaside arcades and cheap cafes selling freshly made Devonshire delicacies such as pasties and cream teas.
It’s not all about the seaside in Devon, though – Dartmoor National Park sprawls over 368-square-miles with over 160 rocky tors, ideal for lengthy country walks with dramatic views.
One of the most accessible spots is Haytor, where you can head up to the tor from a car park – and don’t worry, it isn’t too steep a climb – and then nearby check out Haytor Quarry, which appears frozen in time with disused machinery still present.
Keep an eye out for wild ponies too, of which there are about 1,500.
For a historic spot – head to Exeter – a university city with a sandstone cathedral and bustling high street.
The city even has links to Harry Potter as J.K. Rowling once studied there, and it is thought that she based Diagon Alley on Gandy Street in the city centre.
For another unique spot, pop to Totnes – a town that has often been noted for its hippie lifestyle, free of big brands and chains.
Drop by on a Friday or Saturday to catch the antiques and food market, for bargain finds and huge Lebanese wraps setting you back a tenner (but big enough for two!).
In the North of the county, head to Woolacombe for the perfect holiday park break.
You could head to Golden Coast Holiday Park, for example, which costs from £219 for a seven-night break for a family of four – so just £7.83 per person per night.
The beach stretches over three miles, and there is an abundance of holiday parks around the town, many of which have evening entertainment, hot tubs on chalet decks and indoor and outdoor pools.
Kent
Deputy Travel Editor, Kara Godfrey
Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey recommends a trip to trendy Folkestone in KentCredit: Kara Godfrey
Kent has seen a huge resurgence in recent years, aided by the pandemic, which saw thousands of people leave the Big Smoke for sunnier and sandier climes.
As one of the many who did so, I’ve since lived in both Folkestone and Margate, which are both on the rise as trendy destinations.
(I have a soft spot for both Whitstable and Deal as well, although both are much more established seaside towns).
When it comes to Margate, there are two new boutique hotels, Fort Road Hotel and No.42 Guesthouse, which have opened in recent years, the latter of which has a fantastic rooftop bar in the summer.
I love heading to the George & Heart pub just outside of the Old Town, or Rose In June for a cosy pub pint.
If you want a bit of weird and wonderful, make sure to hit up the Shell Grotto – whose origin remains a mystery – or the Crab Museum, free to visit and the largest crab museum in Europe.
Both the Turner Museum and Dreamland are free too, so you can easily visit on a budget.
Folkestone is only a 52-minute train ride away from LondonCredit: GettyDeputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey has lived across Kent in towns like Margate and BroadstairsCredit: Kara Godfrey – Commissioned by The Sun
The tidal lido is worth the trek, and you’ll be joined more by locals than tourists, but hop in before warming up with a coffee and sauna session.
It’s 52 minutes by train from London; you’ll never have to fight for space on the massive beach; it has the UK’s biggest beach sauna; it has so much art, including a Banksy – the hooks are endless.
Live music takes place at the Harbour Arms most weekends, and I highly recommend the Sunset Sessions at The Tasting Rooms for three courses and live jazz for £35.
Chase it with some oysters and a glass of champagne in The Lighthouse Champagne Bar – and you can even see France on a clear day.
Perhaps controversial, but even the touristy Good Yard food market is well worth a visit. No tourist traps here!
Katy Bright recommends visiting Strawberry Fields Lifton, particularly for their Tulip FestCredit: katy bright
Growing up in Cornwall, I’ve always had plenty of pretty places to explore. If I had to plan the perfect day in my home county, here are some places I would not miss.
Start the day off right with one of the best breakfasts around. Bude cafe The Coffee Pot offers £5 breakfasts with bacon, eggs, sausages and a hash brown, which cannot be faulted.
I may be biased, but I think Boscastle truly is one of the most beautiful places in the UK.
It’s a peaceful seaside sanctuary with a fascinating witchy history and beautiful walks, such as the one to Willapark Lookout.
Plus, it offers some of the best pub grub around – you’ve got to try the Cobweb Inn’s steak and ale pie (£13.95). Wash it down with a traditional Cornish ale.
Many tourists, of course, flock here, so it is important to learn to avoid the tourist traps.
Newquay, one of the most popular holiday destinations in Cornwall, is just way too busy during school breaks.
If you’d like to visit, I would definitely recommend going outside of the school summer holidays, when it is quieter, and the queues are much less manic.
If you are a coffee or matcha fanatic, Blend makes some of the best drinks I’ve ever tasted. Their banana bread iced matcha is a personal favourite of mine.
Katy recommends trips to Boscastle, Bude, Trebarwith Strand and Whitsand BayCredit: katy brightGrab an iced banana bread matcha from Blend in NewquayCredit: katy bright
Something we all look for in a holiday to Cornwall is the best spots with a pint and a view – and my top pick for this is Trebarwith Strand’s, Port William.
A pub perched over the sea, it even offers cosy rooms for guests to stay in.
If you visit between mid-April and early May, you’ll be in my home county for one of my favourite events of the year.
Although it sits right on the border of Cornwall and Devon (so some may be a bit offended by me putting it in this list!) Strawberry Field Lifton’s ‘Tulip Fest’ makes for a very wholesome day out.
Picture a field full of half a million multicoloured tulip bulbs. There is something about walking around a field of endless tulips that just feels so whimsical.
An underrated place to stay is Whitsand Bay Fort holiday park. It’s very highly rated in online reviews, and it’s no surprise to me as a local – this is one of the best places to stay around.
Open all year, it offers both rooms and tent pitches with amazing views of Whitsand Bay. Pitches start at £15 a night, making it a super affordable and proper Cornish alternative to other popular places to stay.
“House of the Dragon” is unveiling the next chapter of its Targaryen family drama.
Premiering Sunday, Season 3 of HBO’s epic fantasy will pick up right after the events of the second season, which ended with Rhaenyra Targaryen (Emma D’Arcy), the displaced would-be ruler of the Seven Kingdoms, finally finding some momentum in her campaign to claim the Iron Throne.
The Targaryen civil war has been a bit of a slow burn so far, though both sides of the family have suffered major casualties. That’s likely to change in Season 3, now that both factions have added key reinforcements.
Why are the Targaryens fighting?
“House of the Dragon” is about the Targaryen war of succession known as the Dance of the Dragons. Rhaenyra’s claim to the Iron Throne stems from her father, King Viserys I, naming her his heir, despite women traditionally being overlooked in the line of succession.
But when King Viserys died, his eldest son Aegon was crowned king instead. King Aegon II is Rhaenyra’s younger half-brother who was born after she had already been announced as Viserys’ heir.
Rhaenyra’s supporters, known as the Blacks, include her uncle-turned-husband Daemon Targaryen and their children, as well as Corlys Velaryon.
Aegon’s faction, the Greens, includes his mother Alicent Hightower, Rhaenyra’s childhood friend; and siblings Helaena (his wife), Aemond and Daeron.
Daemon (Matt Smith) and Rhaenyra (Emma D’Arcy) in “House of the Dragon” Season 3.
(Theo Whiteman / HBO)
What happened in Season 2?
Much of “House of the Dragon” Season 2 involved both sides assembling allies and establishing battle lines — but there was plenty of bloodshed along the way.
The season kicked off with Rhaenyra demanding vengeance against Aemond for killing her son Lucerys. Unfortunately, Daemon’s hired assassins killed Aegon’s young son Jaehaerys instead so any real possibility for a family reconciliation was lost.
The big battle of the season happened at Rook’s Rest, where Princess Rhaenys and her dragon Meleys were killed by Aemond and his dragon Vhagar while fighting Aegon and his dragon Sunfyre. Aegon was severely injured by Aemond and Vhagar in that battle.
Aemond was named Prince Regent in the aftermath, and seized control of the Iron Throne while Aegon recovered.
The Greens made a key alliance with the Triarchy to fortify its naval forces. The Blacks, meanwhile, essentially held open tryouts to find new dragonriders to add more aerial firepower. They also gained more ground troops thanks to Daemon’s efforts in the Riverlands.
How did the season end?
In the Season 2 finale, Alicent took a secret trip to Dragonstone to make a deal with Rhaenyra. She offered to essentially hand over the Iron Throne while Aemond was away if Rhaenyra promised to spare her and her family. When Rhaenyra insisted that Aegon had to die for her to properly claim victory, Alicent agreed.
Unfortunately for them, Aegon had snuck out of King’s Landing with the help of Larys Strong.
Meanwhile, various troops led by Criston Cole, Gwayne Hightower, Jason Lannister and others were on the move.
Aegon (Tom Glynn-Carney) is on the move in “House of the Dragon” Season 3.
(Theo Whiteman / HBO)
Just how many dragons are at this dance?
The Greens have four dragons ridden by the Targaryen siblings, but not all are currently available for battle.
Aegon and his dragon Sunfyre are both injured. Helaena, whose dragon is Dreamfyre, told Aemond that she would not join him in battle. The oldest and largest is Aemond’s dragon Vhagar, who has already triumphed over a couple of Team Black’s dragonriders.
Their youngest brother Daeron rides Tessarion, but they have not yet joined the fray.
The Blacks, meanwhile, currently have seven dragons among them, including Rhaenyra‘s beast Syrax. Daemon, who has the most experience in battle, rides Caraxes. Their children Jacaerys and Baela’s dragons are Vermax and Moondancer, respectively.
Newly added to the mix are lowborn dragonriders of Valyrian descent, Addam of Hull (whose father is Corlys Velaryon), Hugh and Ulf. Their respective dragons are Seasmoke, Vermithor and Silverwing.
There are also some wild dragons in Westeros like the one Rhaena (Daemon’s daughter, Baela’s sister) encounters in the Vale called Sheepstealer.
Dragons will battle in “House of the Dragon” Season 3.
(HBO)
What can we expect from Season 3?
Season 3 will kick off with a massive clash on the sea known as the Battle of the Gullet. This will involve Corlys Velaryon and his fleet trying to fend off an attack by Tyland Lannister and the Triarchy. It’s also no secret that Rhaenyra will make her way back to the Red Keep to claim King’s Landing.
New characters such as Ormund Hightower (Alicent’s cousin) and Daeron Targaryen (Alicent’s youngest son) will officially join the action for the Greens in Season 3. The Blacks can expect reinforcements from the north in the form of the Winter Wolves.
Other loose ends from previous seasons include Rhaena’s quest to tame a wild dragon and the status of Rhaenyra’s youngest children who were sent away for their safety. There is also the mystery around the captivity of Otto Hightower, Alicent’s father.
Sitting in the control room of their home studio known as the Centre of Mental Arts (COMA for short), Long Beach husband-and-wife duo Scott Montoya and Julia Kugel smile as they discuss new music they recorded for their band Soft Palms. Their new album, titled “In Echo,” has been in the works for over five years. The 10-song album, out Friday on Everloving Records, was inspired by their frustration about how they feel the world has devolved since 2020.
“The first record I was like, ‘I want to give the world a hug,’” Kugel says. “And then this one I was like, f— this world.”
For Kugel and Montoya, the album serves as the latest chapter of their creative and personal journey. The pair met in 2012 at a music festival in Dallas (“The most romantic city,” Kugel quips), while playing in the Atlanta-based band the Coathangers and Orange County’s the Growlers, respectively. They bonded over a shared disgust at gladiator shoes, and soon thereafter, were in a relationship.
By 2017, they were married and settled in Long Beach. Despite Kugel’s role in the Coathangers at the time (Montoya left the Growlers in 2016), the couple wanted to form a band. Previously, they recorded a pair of songs that constituted Kugel’s second solo seven-inch single. That experience made them comfortable knowing they could balance their professional and personal lives.
“He’s super easy to work with,” Kugel says of Montoya, who sits beside her, trying to hide a smile. She looks at him and continues, “he’s very talented and very patient.”
“When we were in our other bands, we used to meet up on tour,” Montoya, who also produces and engineers for other artists, says. ”You see the absolute worst of people on tour … so this is nothing.”
To kickstart Soft Palms, Kugel drew from a batch of songs she had previously written that had no home. Being able to record in their own studio allowed the pair to craft songs without feeling any pressure to meet a deadline.
By late 2019, the pair put the finishing touches on their self-titled debut. When the record was released in July 2020, the pandemic was still in full force. The pair were disappointed and upset by the state of the world, and after a few years of stewing, Kugel and Montoya got started on a second album.
Don’t be fooled by its breezy ’60s-analog vintage pop sound. Soft Palms are angry, and that informs the spirit of “In Echo.”
The pair points to “Radio” as the album’s bellwether. First released in 2025, the song rails against how, over the past handful of years, people have fought for the sake of fighting, with no end in sight.
More strikingly, on the biting “Nervous as Hell,” Montoya points to Fox News as “infecting everyone’s parents.”
“I did some digging because I couldn’t believe something that hateful existed,” he says of the network, specifically its landmark $787-million settlement with Dominion Voting Systems. “It turned it from this horrible thing into this s— business that has taken advantage of the elderly and destroyed families.”
That anger continues on the angsty rocker “The Wedding Song.” Kugel points to attending a wedding where a family member married a “total raging maniac,” and how they dealt with the buildup of delicately balancing being cordial yet firm.
“He [the family member] goes, ‘I just want you to show up and shut up!” she says. “I was like, ‘Well, firstly, f— you. Then secondly, this is a song — you just handed me gold.”
Since settling in Long Beach, for the last 10 years Kugel and Montoya took it upon themselves to help foster a positive, artistic community. It’s that mindset that pushed them to found and operate their 501(c)(3) nonprofit called Studios for Schools with the goal of providing recording equipment to underprivileged schools.
Their DIY work ethic in entertainment was also the driving force behind Happy Sundays, a free Long Beach-based music festival. Running for 10 years, the fest created a block party in the city’s Zaferia neighborhood that eventually expanded into a full weekend of shows across stages set up at local businesses to host a diverse lineup of veteran and up-and-coming area bands. Though the event was paused this year so they can focus on the new album and book, the couple plan to bring it back in 2027.
“It was like a statement in that way of like f— these giant prices, VIP experiences and all of that stuff,” Kugel says. “It’s the anti-music festival and a celebration of community.”
Keeping with that spirit, and drawing from the experiences of their two-decade careers, last month the pair released a book titled “How to Be Self-Reliant in the Music Business.” The genesis of this self-published guidebook occurred when the pair realized they were not receiving a portion of a royalty stream they were owed. They knew that if they were in the dark on the issues they thought they knew, others likely were as well.
“We decided to turn it into a book because we realized there’s so much stuff that few artists know about on their own,” Montoya says. “I want people to understand the scope of what they’re actually getting into, and the reality of their situations.”
“It’s a very thorough overview,” Kugel adds.
The book includes information beyond what one would find in Donald S. Passman’s longstanding industry bible “All You Need to Know About the Music Business.” With assistance from a lawyer friend and a CPA family member, the pair addresses topics ranging from backstage etiquette to managing social media to dealing with record labels and publishing companies. They hope that it will provide a blueprint for bands old and new to better navigate music’s notoriously choppy waters. Their accessible, snack-size chapters move fluidly as they explain the realities artists face in 2026.
Battling through the disappointment of the first part of the decade allowed Kugel and Montoya to find their creative way. Armed with this infusion of activity across various disciplines, the couple is inspired to continue to shake their way out of the past. Though focused on their impending U.S. and European tour, the duo promise that the next Soft Palms album won’t take as long and are mulling over their next music-industry book project. For now.
“It’s a lot to keep up with all of these projects,” Montoya says. “We work all day, every day. And it’s been cool to see signs that it’s paying off.”
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is well into the second run of group play, with every team still eager to post wins and most looking to secure a place in the knockout stage.
Here’s everything you need to know about matches being played Sunday, Monday and Tuesday in the 48-team tournament across the U.S., Mexico and Canada (all times Pacific). Tuesday’s matches will conclude the first two games of group play for every team at the World Cup.
Sunday’s Group G matchups:
Belgium vs. Iran
Belgium’s Romelu Lukaku, right, is challenged by Egypt’s Ramy Rabia during a World Cup Group G match on June 15.
(Alex Grimm / Getty Images)
Where: SoFi Stadium Time: noon TV: FS1, Telemundo
The buzz: Iran twice rallied from deficits to draw with New Zealand in its first game, while Belgium, outplayed by Egypt in its opener, was lucky to escape with a point on an own goal early in the second half. Belgium’s aging golden generation of Romelu Lukaku, Kevin De Bruyne, Thibaut Courtois, Thomas Meunier and Axel Witsel is going to need to do much better if they hope to avoid another early World Cup exit.
New Zealand vs. Egypt
New Zealand’s Callan Elliot, left, and Iran’s Mehdi Ghayedi battle for the ball during a World Cup Group G match on June 15.
(Andre Penner / Associated Press)
Where: BC Place, Vancouver Time: 6 p.m. TV: FS1, Telemundo
The buzz: One of these teams could make history since neither has ever won a World Cup game. New Zealand earned its first point in the World Cup since 2010 with a draw against Iran. The winner likely advances to the next round.
Sunday’s Group H matchups:
Spain vs. Saudi Arabia
Spain’s Mikel Oyarzabal, top, challenges for the ball during a draw with Cape Verde on June 15.
(Mattia Ozbot / Getty Images)
Where: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta Time: 9 a.m. TV: Fox, Telemundo
The buzz: Both teams opened the World Cup with surprising results. Second-ranked Spain was unable to score in a draw with No. 67 Cape Verde. Saudi Arabia was 10 minutes away from upsetting Uruguay, only to settle for a tie. Spain desperately needs a win to get its World Cup back on track, while another good performance from Saudi Arabia — unbeaten in its last three games — would have the Arabian Falcons in position to reach the knockout stage.
Uruguay vs. Cape Verde
Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha holds the nation’s flag after a draw with Spain on June 15.
(Buda Mendes / Getty Images)
Where: Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens, Fla. Time: 3 p.m. TV: FS1, Telemundo
The buzz: With all four teams playing to draws in their openers, the group is wide open. That creates a rare opportunity for tournament debutant Cape Verde, the second-smallest country to qualify for a World Cup. Vozinha, Cape Verde’s goalkeeper, made seven saves to shut out Spain. If he can frustrate Uruguay the same way, Cape Verde could be through to the round of 32.
Monday’s Group J matchups:
Argentina vs. Austria
Argentina’s Lionel Messi reacts after scoring his third goal against Algeria at the World Cup on June 16.
The buzz: Argentina opened its World Cup title defense with a 3-0 win over Algeria on a hat trick from Lionel Messi. The Argentina captain, playing in his record sixth World Cup, is tied with Germany’s Miroslav Klose for the most career World Cup goals (16). Austria, meanwhile, would all but assure itself of a spot in the knockout round with a point.
Jordan vs. Algeria
Algeria’s Zineddine Belaïd kicks the ball during a World Cup loss to Argentina on June 16.
The buzz: Little was expected of Jordan, making its first appearance in the World Cup. And it delivered little in a 3-1 loss to Austria. But Algeria, ranked 28th in the world, entered the tournament with high hopes and one of African soccer’s most potent attacks. However, it had only one shot on goal in its loss to Argentina and needs a big rebound to avoid an early trip home.
Monday’s Group I matches:
France vs. Iraq
France’s Kylian Mbappé celebrates after scoring against Senegal on June 16.
(Adam Hunger / Ap Photo/adam Hunger)
Where: Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia Time: 2 p.m. TV: Fox, Telemundo
The buzz: Kylian Mbappé proved his fitness with a brace in France’s opening win over Senegal, giving him 14 World Cup goals, tied for fourth on the all-time list. He has a great chance to pad that total against an Iraq team that gave up four goals to Norway. Iraq still is looking for its first-ever World Cup point.
Norway vs. Senegal
Norway’s Erling Haaland celebrates after scoring against Iraq on June 16.
The buzz: Norway, playing in its first World Cup this century, made up for lost time with a 4-1 win in its opener, getting two goals from Erling Haaland. Norway probably will move on to the next round no matter what happens, but a point would lock down a spot. Senegal and Sadio Mané, on the other hand, desperately need a win.
Tuesday’s Group K matchups:
Portugal vs. Uzbekistan
Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo walks on the field during a match against the Democratic Republic of the Congo on June 17.
The buzz: Cristiano Ronaldo entered this World Cup with visions of winning his first title. But he’ll go home early and empty-handed unless fifth-ranked Portugal improves on the listless performance it had in a draw with the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Uzbekistan, playing in its first World Cup, was not intimidated by the big stage, weathering a withering Colombia attack in a 3-1 loss. Expect it to bunker in again against Portugal.
Colombia vs. DR Congo
Yoane Wissa, left, celebrates with teammates after scoring for the Democratic Republic of the Congo against Portugal on June 17.
The buzz: The Democratic Republic of the Congo’s only other World Cup appearance came in 1974, when the country was known as Zaire; it lost all three games and didn’t score a goal. It’s already done better with Yoane Wissa’s score in first-half stoppage time giving the team a point against Portugal. A win here and it’s through to the knockout phase. The same is true of Colombia, which got a 65th-minute goal from Luis Díaz and another from substitute Jáminton Campaz deep in stoppage time to beat stubborn Uzbekistan.
Tuesday’s Group L matchups:
England vs. Ghana
England’s Harry Kane celebrates after scoring against Croatia on June 17.
The buzz: England opened its World Cup with a surprisingly comfortable win over Croatia behind two goals from captain Harry Kane. But the Three Lions are only equal atop the table with Ghana, which got a goal deep in stoppage time from Caleb Yirenkyi to beat Panama. If there’s a winner here, it probably will decide the group. A point likely sends both teams through.
Panama vs. Croatia
Where: BMO Stadium, Toronto Time: 4 p.m. TV: Fox, Telemundo
Panama’s Ismael Díaz attempts a shot against Ghana on June 17.
(Kevin C. Cox / Getty Images)
The buzz: Croatia has played in two straight World Cup semifinals, but that streak is in jeopardy after a 4-2 loss to England. Panama outshot, outpassed and outpossessed Ghana in its first game but came away with nothing after conceding a goal in stoppage time, leaving the Central Americans still looking for their first World Cup win.
SEATTLE — The 2026 FIFA World Cup is well into the second run of group play, with every team still eager to post wins as they look to secure a place in the knockout stage.
Here’s everything you need to know about matches being played on Friday, Saturday and Sunday in the 48-team tournament across the U.S., Mexico and Canada (all times Pacific).
Friday’s Group C matchups:
Scotland vs. Morocco
Morocco’s Soufiane Rahimi controls the ball during a World Cup match against Brazil on June 13.
The buzz: Scotland opened its World Cup with a win over Haiti — its first in 10 tournament games against teams from the Americas — on John McGinn’s goal midway through the first half. A win or draw here will probably be enough to send the Scots on to the knockout stage for the first time. Morocco came away from its first match with a well-earned point in a 1-1 draw with Brazil. That game was nearly as equal statistically as it was on the scoreboard. Morocco’s score came from Ismael Saibari in the 21st minute.
Brazil vs. Haiti
Vinicius Junior celebrates after scoring against Morocco in the World Cup on June 13.
(Adam Hunger / Associated Press)
Where: Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia Time: 5:30 p.m. PDT TV: Fox, Telemundo
The buzz: Haiti outpossessed and outshot Scotland in its opening loss but it couldn’t score, leaving it needing at least a point here to keep its hopes of advancing alive. Brazil got a 32nd-minute goal from Vinícius Júnior in its opener.
Friday’s Group D matchups:
United States vs. Australia
U.S. midfielder Gio Reyna celebrates with defender Chris Richards after a 4-1 win over Paraguay at the World Cup on June 12.
The buzz: The only time the U.S. won two games in the group stage was 1930; the Americans can equal that with a win here after thrashing Paraguay in its opener. Folarin Balogun’s two goals in that game equaled another record from 1930, which was the last time a U.S. player had multiple goals in a World Cup game. Australia opened with a 2-0 win over Turkey. A win or draw here will likely send the Socceroos to the next round for a second straight World Cup.
Paraguay vs. Turkey
Paraguay head coach Gustavo Alfaro talks with his players during a training session on Thursday.
The buzz: Neither team can afford a loss if they hope to advance. Turkey dominated its opener, outshooting Australia 30-9, taking 51 touches in the penalty area and completing 90% of its 635 passes. But it had nothing to show for it in a 2-0 loss. Paraguay was never in its opener, falling behind the U.S. 3-0 in the first half of a 4-1 loss.
Saturday’s Group E matches:
Germany vs. Ivory Coast
Ivory Coast’s Yan Diomande celebrates a goal against Ecuador in the World Cup on June 14.
The buzz: Germany pounded tiny Curaçao 7-1 in its opener. The last time Germany won 7-1 in a World Cup was in 2014 when it routed Brazil en route to its fourth title. The Ivory Coast started its tournament with a 1-0 upset of Ecuador on substitute Amad Diallo’s goal in the 90th minute. Ivory Coast limited the South Americans to just one shot on goal.
Ecuador vs. Curaçao
Curaçao’s Livano Comenencia shoots against Germany during a World Cup match on June 14.
The buzz: Neither team can afford another loss after falling in their openers, but Curaçao has the bigger hill to climb after surrendering 26 shots — 12 on target — in a one-sided loss to Germany. The only bright spot was Livano Comenencia scoring Curaçao’s first-ever World Cup goal. Ecuador had few scoring changes in its loss to Ivory Coast. It will need to do better if it hopes to get out of the group stage for just the second time.
Saturday’s Group F matchups:
Netherlands vs. Sweden
Sweden’s Yasin Ayari (18) celebrates with teammates after scoring against Tunisia in the World Cup on June 14.
The buzz: Yasin Ayari scored the first and last of Sweden’s goals in the 5-1 win over Tunisia last week. The Netherlands twice lost leads in its 2-2 draw with Japan. The Dutch haven’t been eliminated in the first round of a World Cup since 1938, but a loss here could put that streak in jeopardy.
Tunisia vs. Japan
Japan’s Daichi Kamada controls the ball in front of the Netherlands’ Teun Koopmeiners during a World Cup match on June 14.
The buzz: Tunisia will play its first game under interim coach Hervé Renard, who managed the team from 2019-22. He replaces Sabri Lamouchi, who was fired after Tunisia’s listless loss to Sweden. Japan earned a point in its opener, twice rallying from deficits to draw the Netherlands on Daichi Kamada’s goal in the 88th minute.
Sunday’s Group G matchups:
Belgium vs. Iran
Belgium’s Romelu Lukaku, right, is challenged by Egypt’s Ramy Rabia during a World Cup Group G match on June 15.
(Alex Grimm / Getty Images)
Where: SoFi Stadium, Inglewood
Time: noon PDT
TV: FS1, Telemundo
The buzz: Iran twice rallied from deficits to draw New Zealand in its first game while Belgium, outplayed by Egypt in its opener, was lucky to escape with a point on an own goal early in the second half. Belgium’s aging golden generation of Romelu Lukaku, Kevin DeBruyne, Thibaut Courtois, Thomas Meunier and Axel Witsel are going to need to do much better if they hope to avoid another early World Cup exit.
New Zealand vs. Egypt
New Zealand’s Callan Elliot, left, and Iran’s Mehdi Ghayedi battle for the ball during a World Cup Group G match on June 15.
The buzz: One of these teams could make history since neither has ever won a World Cup game. New Zealand earned its first point in three World Cup appearances with a draw against Iran. Egypt’s tie with Belgium was its third draw in eight games. And there could be an added bonus to that history since a victory likely sends the winner on to the next round.
Sunday’s Group H matchups:
Spain vs. Saudi Arabia
Spain’s Mikel Oyarzabal, top, challenges for the ball during a draw with Cape Verde on June 15.
The buzz: Both teams opened the World Cup with surprising results. Third-ranked Spain was unable to score against No. 64 Cape Verde in a game that ended in a draw. Saudi Arabia was 10 minutes away from upsetting Uruguay, only to settle for a tie. Spain desperately needs a win to get its World Cup back on track while another good performance from Saudi Arabia — unbeaten in its last three games — would have the Arabian Falcons dreaming of a spot in the knockout stage.
Uruguay vs. Cape Verde
Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha holds the nation’s flag after a draw with Spain on June 15.
(Buda Mendes / Getty Images)
Where: Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens, Fla. Time: 3 p.m. PDT TV: FS1, Telemundo
The buzz: With all four teams playing to draws in their openers, the group is wide open. That creates a rare opportunity for tournament debutante Cape Verde, the second-smallest country to qualify for a World Cup. Vozinha, Cape Verde’s goalkeeper, made seven saves to shut out Spain. If he can frustrate Uruguay the same way, Cape Verde could be through to the round of 32.
I’ve been intrigued by the Northern California area of Humboldt County ever since the fourth grade. That’s when my teacher told us the story of the Gold Rush town of Eureka: In the 1850s, when prospectors struck gold, they would yell “Eureka!” which is Greek for “I have found it!” What a funny word, I thought.
My curiosity about the area later grew when I learned about its logging renaissance — vast swaths of old-growth redwood forests were felled to make ships and build railroads, both of which were needed to transport this valuable commodity to the rest of the country and beyond. It wasn’t until 1918 with the formation of the Save the Redwoods League that preservation efforts began to try to halt the rapid depletion of the old-growth forests, which, by that point, had dwindled down to between 5% to 10%. From those efforts, Humboldt Redwoods State Park was established in 1921, followed by the formation of Redwoods National Park in 1968. Today the four parks that make up Redwood National and State Parks cover about 139,000 acres of land and protect nearly half of the world’s remaining old-growth redwood forests.
And it was the lure of walking beneath these giants that I, decades past that fourth-grade history lesson, finally decided to make my pilgrimage.
It took this long because, dear reader, Redwood National and State Parks are not easy to get to from L.A.
By car, without accounting for traffic and breaks, it would be at least a 12-hour journey along the 101, through San Francisco, past wine country and bypassing Mendocino before you reach Humboldt County, where the southern end of the parks begin. Realistically, it would take a few days and a couple of overnight stays along the way to get there, which is fine if you’re in it for the road trip; but if you’re like me and only have the weekend, this leaves one option: flying into California Redwood Coast-Humboldt County Airport, a.k.a. Arcata-Eureka Airport (ACV), the only airport that services the area. United has direct flights there from LAX. But Burbank Airport has Breeze Airways offering direct flights three times a week with prices as low as $80 roundtrip.
When I landed at Arcata-Eureka Airport, it felt smaller than some municipal airfields — and just as quiet. That calm set the tone for the rest of the weekend. I walked in peaceful serenity between trees so tall and ancient they recalibrated my sense of time. I discovered that life in Humboldt County, and neighboring Del Norte County near the Oregon border, moves at that same unhurried pace. The fog retreats slowly in the morning. Night arrives gently, carried in on the mist.
And I learned that Humboldt County — including the cities of Eureka, Arcata and Ferdale — is full of treasures beyond its abundance of the Earth’s tallest trees. Whether I was eating a greasy cheeseburger at a family-run diner that becomes the social center of town after 9 p.m. or slurping oysters at a bar that harvested them from its own farm just offshore, it became clear that this place is shaped by discovery, exploitation and preservation. What follows are hikes, sights and bites that should get you started for a weekend full of your own “Eureka!” moments.
About This Guide
Our journalists independently visited every spot recommended in this guide. We do not accept free meals or experiences. What should we check out next? Send ideas to guides@latimes.com.
The first six days of the 2026 FIFA World Cup are over, with the U.S. and Mexico each winning their group stage openers. However, several teams in the World Cup field are still looking to hit the competitive pitch for the first time.
Here’s everything you need to know about matches being played on Wednesday and Thursday in the 48-team tournament across the U.S., Mexico and Canada (all times Pacific).
Wednesday’s Group K games:
Portugal vs. DR Congo
Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo celebrates after scoring during a World Cup qualifying match on Oct. 14.
The buzz: The Democratic Republic of the Congo is back in the World Cup for the first time since 1974 — when the country was known as Zaire — and in its first game it faces fifth-ranked Portugal and Cristiano Ronaldo, the greatest goal scorer in soccer history. Ronaldo, 41, is playing in the tournament for a sixth time, and this likely is his last chance to win the one prize that has eluded him — a World Cup title.
As for the Congo, it qualified by beating Jamaica in extra time of an inter-confederation playoff in March. But its final pretournament tuneup, with Chile this month, was canceled in Spain because of health concerns linked to the Ebola outbreak in Congo, then relocated to France, where Les Leopards lost 2-1. Before that, the team’s only two losses in the last year had been to World Cup qualifiers Senegal and Algeria.
Uzbekistan vs. Colombia
Uzbekistan’s Eldor Shomurodov controls the ball during an international friendly against the U.S. in September 2023.
The buzz: Uzbekistan, a former Soviet republic, is another first-time World Cup qualifier, having punched its ticket for the tournament by finishing second to Iran in its Asian Confederation qualifying group. Its best player is forward Eldor Shomurodov, the team’s all-time leader in goals and the active leader in appearances who shared the lead in Turkey’s Super Lig with 22 scores this season.
Colombia is returning to the World Cup after missing the 2022 tournament. That led to the hiring of Argentine manager Néstor Lorenzo, who guided Colombia to a 28-game unbeaten streak between 2022 and 2024.
Wednesday’s Group L games:
England vs. Croatia
England’s Harry Kane takes part in a team training session on Saturday.
The buzz: The last time these teams met in the World Cup was in the 2018 semifinals, where Croatia won in extra time. Since making its first World Cup as an independent country in 1998, Croatia has finished third or better three times, making the final in 2018 and the semifinals in 1998 and 2022. Only France has fared better in the last two tournaments. England, a quarterfinalist in Qatar, made the final of the last two European Championships and, like Croatia, comes into this tournament with an aging core led by captain Harry Kane, England’s all-time leader in goals.
Ghana vs. Panama
Panama’s Ismael Diaz, center, controls the ball during an international friendly against Brazil in May.
(Silvia Izquierdo / Associated Press)
Where: BMO Field, Toronto Time: 4 p.m. TV: FS1, Telemundo
The buzz: Panama made its first World Cup appearance in 2018, and seven players from that team are back looking for their first win in the tournament. Prolific goalscorer Ismael Diaz is one of those holdovers as is San Diego FC midfielder Anibal Godoy, the team captain. Ghana, meanwhile, has qualified for five of the last six World Cups but hasn’t gone beyond the group stage since 2010. Its best player is Leicester City forward Jordan Ayew, Ghana’s all-time leader in caps and its active leader in goals.
Thursday’s Group A games:
Czechia vs. South Africa
Czechia’s Ladislav Krejci, center, celebrates with teammates after scoring against South Korea on June 11.
(Matias Delacroix / Associated Press)
Where: Mercedes Benz Stadium, Atlanta Time: 9 a.m. TV: Fox, Telemundo
The buzz: Both teams lost their openers, meaning neither can afford another setback. But South Africa will be without two key players in midfielders Yaya Sithole and Themba Zwane, who both drew red cards in the team’s loss to Mexico. Ladislav Krejci’s second-half goal gave Czechia the lead briefly in its loss to South Korea. It was the country’s first World Cup lead since a 3-0 win over the U.S. in group play in 2006.
Mexico vs. South Korea
Mexico’s Raúl Jiménez celebrates after scoring against South Africa at the World Cup on June 11.
The buzz: After both teams opened their World Cup with wins, a victory here likely will mean advancing to the knockout rounds as the group champion. Mexico has a one-goal lead in goal differential but will be facing South Korea without defender César Montes, who drew a silly red card in stoppage time of El Tri’s win over South Africa.
Thursday’s Group B games:
Switzerland vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina
Switzerland’s Breel Embolo scores on a penalty shot against Qatar at the World Cup on June 13.
The buzz: Switzerland dominated its first game, outshooting Qatar 26-6 and putting seven tries on target. But it dropped two important points on an own goal deep in stoppage time, turning a potential 1-0 win into a 1-1 draw. Despite all that offense, Switzerland’s only goal came on Breel Embolo’s penalty shot. Bosnia also let a lead — built on Jovo Lukic’s header in the 21st minute — get away late in its draw with Canada.
Canada vs. Qatar
Canada’s Cyle Larin (9) celebrates with teammates after scoring against Bosnia-Herzegovina at the World Cup on June 12.
The buzz: Cyle Larin scored two minutes after coming off the bench late in the second half of Canada’s opener, giving the country its first point in a World Cup match. A win against Qatar almost certainly would be enough to see Canada through to the second round, but the team once again will be without its best player, injured winger Alphonso Davies. Qatar also earned its first World Cup point against Switzerland, with keeper Mahmud Abunada making five saves, enabling the team to draw on an own goal in stoppage time.
The first three days of the 2026 FIFA World Cup are done, with the U.S. and Mexico each winning their group stage openers. However, most of the World Cup field is still looking to hit the competitive pitch for the first time.
Here’s everything you need to know about matches being played on Sunday, Monday and Tuesday in the 48-team tournament across the U.S., Mexico and Canada (all times Pacific).
Sunday’s Group E games:
Germany vs. Curacao
Germany’s Antonio Rudiger and Deniz Undav walk on the field before a friendly against the U.S. in Chicago on June 6.
The buzz: This is David vs. Goliath. Germany, a four-time champion ranked 10th in the world, against Curaçao, the smallest country to qualify for a World Cup. But remember David won that first battle, and Curaçao, with a roster full of Dutch-born-and-bred players and an experienced coach in Dick Advocaat, at 78 the oldest manager in the tournament, won’t be a pushover.
Ivory Coast vs. Ecuador
Ecuador’s Piero Hincapie controls the ball during a World Cup qualifier against Argentina in September 2025.
(Franklin Jacome / Getty Images)
Where: Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia Time: 4 p.m. TV: FS1, Telemundo
The buzz: Ecuador hasn’t lost since September 2024, a run that’s been fueled by the European-based back line of Willian Pacho (Paris Saint-Germain), Piero Hincapié (Arsenal), Pervis Estupiñán (AC Milan) and holding midfielder Moisés Caicedo (Chelsea). Ivory Coast is the youngest team in the World Cup, with an average age of 25.4 years, but it beat France in its final tournament tuneup. In three previous World Cups, the Elephants failed to advance out of the group stage.
Sunday’s Group F games:
Netherlands vs. Japan
Netherlands standout Frenkie de Jong looks on during an international friendly against Algeria on June 3.
The buzz: The eighth-ranked Dutch, arguably the best team never to win a World Cup, come into this tournament with a golden generation led by defenders Virgil van Dijk and Nathan Ake, midfielder Frenkie de Jong and coach Ronald Koeman. Japan’s only loss in the last 12 months came to the U.S. in a friendly last September; after that it beat fellow World Cup qualifiers England, Scotland, Ghana and Brazil and played Paraguay to a draw. The Dutch have lost just twice, to Algeria and Germany, in the last 23 months.
Sweden vs. Tunisia
Tunisia’s Hannibal Mejbri warms up before an international friendly against Belgium on June 6.
The buzz: Tunisia played in five of the last seven World Cups without getting out of group play, but this time it brings a roster that blends international veterans such as midfielders Hannibal Mejbri (Burnley) and Elias Achouri (Copenhagen) and young talent, including teenager Rayan Elloumi of the Vancouver Whitecaps, the ninth-youngest player in the tournament. Sweden beat Ukraine and Poland in a pair of UEFA playoff games this spring to grab a place in this tournament. Aston Villa defender Victor Lidelof is the most experienced player with 76 caps, including four World Cup appearances.
Monday’s Group G games:
Belgium vs. Egypt
Belgium’s Joaquin Seys, left, and Axel Witsel celebrate after defeating the U.S. in an international friendly on March 28.
The buzz: Belgium hasn’t lost in more than a year, but it also hasn’t played a top-10 team since 2024. It has a veteran core of four players — midfielders Axel Witsel and Kevin De Bruyne, goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and forward Romelu Lukaka — with more than 100 international caps. Egypt, Africa’s oldest national team, is playing in a World Cup for the fourth time and is still looking for its first win. Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah, the team’s active leading scorer, is the only player on the roster with a World Cup goal.
Iran vs. New Zealand
Iran’s Amirhossein Hosseinzadeh plays the ball during an international friendly against Gambia on May 29.
The buzz: For the first time in World Cup history a tournament qualifier, Iran, will play in a country with which it is at war, the U.S. The Iranians, with the second-oldest roster in the tournament, are playing in their fourth straight World Cup. Only a 1-0 loss to the U.S. kept them from advancing out of group play in 2022. New Zealand, playing in its third World Cup, was winless the first two times — although it didn’t lose in its last visit in 2010, playing Slovakia, Italy and Paraguay to draws. The Kiwis are the only team this century not to lose in group play while also failing to advance.
Monday’s Group H games:
Spain vs. Cape Verde
Spain’s Ferran Torres scores during an international friendly against Iraq on June 4.
(Manu Fernandez / Associated Press)
Where: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta Time: 9 a.m. TV: Fox, Telemundo
The buzz: Cape Verde is one of four nations making its World Cup debut and it will open against second-ranked Spain, a tournament favorite which has lost just once since March 2024. Every player on Spain’s roster plays for a top European team; four of them played in last month’s Champions League final.
Saudi Arabia vs. Uruguay
Uruguay’s Federico Valverde heads the ball past Brazil’s Joao Gomes during a Copa America quarterfinal match in 2024.
(Godofredo A. Vásquez / Associated Press)
Where: Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens, Fla. Time: 3 p.m. TV: FS1, Telemundo
The buzz: Saudi Arabia, playing in its third straight World Cup, began its last visit by beating eventual champion Argentina in one of the most stunning upsets in tournament history. And the last time the World Cup was held in the U.S., in 1994, the Arabian Falcons became the first Arab-Asian team to reach the round of 16. Uruguay, a quarterfinalist in 2018, comes into this World Cup with an experienced roster led by Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde and Atlético Madrid defender José María Giménez.
Tuesday’s Group I games:
France vs. Senegal
France’s Kylian Mbappe works out with teammates in Waltham, Mass., on Friday.
The buzz: France, ranked third in the world by FIFA, played in the last two World Cup finals and is favored to make it back again this year. Its best player, captain Kylian Mbappe, holds the tournament record with four goals in World Cup finals, including a hat trick in Qatar four years ago. Senegal is led by former African player of the year Sadio Mane, the country’s all-time leader in goals. Senegal made the quarterfinals in 2002 and the round of 16 in Qatar.
Iraq vs. Norway
Norway’s Erling Haaland controls the ball during a World Cup qualifier against Moldova in March 2025.
The buzz: Norway is playing in the World Cup for the first time this century which means Manchester City‘s Erling Haaland will finally make his tournament debut. A three-time Premier League scoring champion, Erling has more goals for club at country at 25 than either Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo had at that age. Iraq has gone even longer between World Cups, making its only appearance in 1986 when it lost all three games. Iraq won its way back with a 2-1 victory over Bolivia in an inter-confederation playoff last March. The winning goal came from forward Aymen Hussein, the team’s active leader in goals and appearances among outfield players.
Tuesday’s Group J games:
Argentina vs. Algeria
Argentina’s Lionel Messi, fourth from left, practices with teammates in Kansas City, Kan., on Thursday.
The buzz: Top-ranked Argentina was upset by lowly Saudi Arabia in its World Cup opener four years ago, then ran the table to give Lionel Messi the one title he was missing. Argentina returns 17 players from its world championship team, among them Messi, the golden ball winner; goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez, the golden glove winner; and midfielder Enzo Fernández, the 2022 tournament’s best young player. Algeria is ranked 28th in the world, it best ranking in more than a decade, and has lost just twice in the last two years. Its roster features 16 players from first-division clubs in Europe.
Austria vs. Jordan
Mousa Al-Tamari of Jordan controls the ball during the international friendly match against Switzerland on May 31.
The buzz: Jordan played its first international match in 1953 but it hasn’t played in World Cup until now, finally qualifying by finishing second to South Korea in its Asian group. Its best player is captain Musa Al-Taamari, a dynamic winger known as the “Jordanian Messi” who leads active players with 91 international caps. Austria is playing in the World Cup for the first time this century and it hasn’t won a game here since 1990. Its best player in Real Madrid defender David Alaba, a four-time Champions League winner and 10-time Austrian footballer of the year.
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It’s election day in California’s 2026 primary, and you’re headed to the polls — until you realize you’re not sure you’re registered, or fear you might not make it to the vote center on time.
Here are some common election day concerns and challenges and how to end your Tuesday with an “I voted” sticker.
Eligible citizens who need to register or re-register to vote within 14 days of an election can complete this process and vote at county elections offices, polling places or vote centers. To register you’ll need to provide a driver’s license, a state identification number or the last four digits of your Social Security number.
A complete list of county election office addresses can be found here.
Your submitted ballot will be processed and counted once the county elections office has completed the voter registration verification process.
If you’re unsure about your voter status, you can find your record here by providing some personal information including your date of birth and driver’s license number.
I don’t know where my polling place is
You can find your nearest polling place on the California secretary of state’s website here.
You can also use Los Angeles County’s voter center locator on the registrar-recorder/county clerk website here.
On election day, voting centers are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. across the state.
I can’t submit my mail-in ballot myself
You can have someone else submit your ballot.
Anyone can drop off your mailed ballot as long as you authorize them to do so and they do not get paid on a per-ballot basis, according to the secretary of state.
You and the person you’ve authorized to submit your mailed ballot must fill and sign the outside of the ballot envelope.
I forgot my check-in code for in-person voting
Los Angeles County election officials say you can check in at a vote center by scanning your “quick check-in code” — a number that verifies your voter registration.
Your code can be found on your mailed sample ballot and vote center postcard. Take either of those hard copies to the vote center.
If you forgot the hard copies, you can retrieve the code by verifying your voter registration here. You’ll need to input your last name, birth date, the house number of your residential address and ZIP Code. For assistance call, (800) 815-2666, Option 2.
I want to drop my ballot in a box but fear it’s too late
There are three ways you can submit your mailed ballot on election day:
You can put it in a ballot drop box. The cutoff time for doing so is 8 p.m., which is also when the polls close on election day.
Drop it off at a vote center, where the deadline is the same.
Drop it off at a United States post office. Be sure to get a hand-stamped postmark from a postal employee. Mailed ballots must be postmarked on election day and received no later than seven days after election day.
I think I forgot to sign by mailed ballot envelope
If you failed to sign your vote-by-mail ballot return envelope, your vote will still count.
Your county elections official will notify you by mail, phone or email, according to the secretary of state. You can also be notified by way of the “Where’s My Ballot?” tracking tool if you have signed up for automatic notifications that will ping you if there are issues with your ballot.
Your county elections office will provide you with a form to fill out and return completed.
The form will be given to you two days prior to the day your county certifies the election, so be sure to fill it out and return it to your county elections office right away.
I’m going to be late getting to the polls; can I still vote?
In California, any voter who is in line at 8 p.m. when the polls are scheduled to close is allowed to vote, according to the secretary of state.
If there is a line when the polls close, a poll worker stands at the back of the line to let people who arrive after 8 p.m. know that the polls have closed.
Any voter who arrives after the polls have closed may not be allowed to vote, even if voters who were in line to vote before the polls closed are in the process of voting.
I live in Santa Barbara and I’m interested in photography. Where are some historical places to take pictures in Los Angeles? I’m interested in old movie palaces, movie and TV show locations, historic homes and buildings, World War II–related sites and airplane museums. — William Lemons
Looking for things to do in L.A.? Ask us your questions and our expert guides will share highly specific recommendations.
Here’s what we suggest:
It’s cool to hear that you’re interested in capturing the beauty and history of Los Angeles through your camera lens, William. Given that you’ll be traveling from out of town, I am recommending spots that you can visit in a single day, if you’d like. They’re mostly in and around Downtown L.A.
First off, if you don’t feel like driving and paying for parking all over town, I’d suggest taking Amtrak from Santa Barbara to L.A. You can take take photos of the gorgeous view along the way and once you step off the train, you’ll already be at the first historic site on the list: the true stunner that is Union Station.
Open since 1939, it’s one of the country’s last great train stations and considered to be the largest railroad passenger terminal on the West Coast. Designed by father-and-son architect team John and Donald Parkinson, it blends Art Deco, Spanish Colonial and Streamline Moderne styles. Travel writer Christopher Reynolds, a.k.a. the person in the newsroom that everyone goes to for trip advice, tells me, “With its clock tower, big arches and high ceilings, Union Station feels like a secular church.” He notes that security guards will often shoo you off if you use a tripod without advance approval, so it’s best to bring a handheld camera instead.
Next, walk across the road to Olvera Street, one of the oldest streets in L.A. It’s part of El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historic Monument that’s been fighting to stay open since the pandemic. As you stroll through the area and take pictures, check out the Mexican marketplace, capturing the pottery, clothing and art along the way, and grab some authentic cuisine. Times food editor Daniel Hernandez swears by Cielito Lindo, a taquería that’s been around since the 1934, and still makes the most “perfectly rolled taquitos.” (The family-owned restaurant is currently raising funds to stay open due to economic hardship.)
Next, hop on an e-scooter or take a quick bus ride to the Historic Broadway Theater District, which has 12 stunning movie theaters — all of which were built between 1910 and 1931. The Los Angeles Conservancy even hosts walking tours of the famous district. You can register online for the next ones on June 6, 13, 20 and 27.
You’ll probably be hungry after the tour, so you might as well visit Grand Central Market, the city’s largest and oldest public market. Open since 1917, the market has more than 40 food stalls including China Cafe (open since 1959), Villa’s Tacos, Egg Slut and more. Afterward, take a brisk walk to L.A.’s most beautiful library, the L.A. Central Library, which turns 100 this year. Grab your camera and marvel at the exterior of the Art Deco-style building, which draws inspiration from Egyptian and Mediterranean Revival architecture. Then head inside on the second floor rotunda to see the marvelous California history mural and the breathtaking globe chandelier.
Now for some rapid-fire suggestions across L.A.: There’s Frank Lloyd Wright’s 1920s-era Hollyhock House at Barnsdall Art Park in East Hollywood. (If you go here, I suggest stopping by nearby Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice for a delicious sweet treat.) Or check out any one of L.A.’s most iconic TV houses including “The Brady Bunch” home in Studio City, “The Golden Girls” residence in Brentwood and the “Seinfield” Koreatown apartment building. (These are private residencies, so you won’t be able to go inside but you can snap a photo of the exterior.) If it’s architecture you’re into, peruse this guide to L.A.’s iconic homes that you can tour IRL, including the Adamson House in Malibu, the Eames House in Pacific Palisades and the Lummis Home (El Alisal) near Mount Washington. Finally, if you’re open to joining a group of fellow photographers, I suggest following Instagram pages for collectives like L.A. Photo Club and the 85 Mil Photo Walk Series, which host meetups and walking tours regularly.
L.A. is filled with so many beautiful historical sites, so I hope that these suggestions help get you started, and most importantly, that you continue taking awesome pictures. Have a great time!
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A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder has come to an end on BBC and Netflix, but there are plenty of loose ends to tie up in a potential third season
18:10, 30 May 2026Updated 18:26, 30 May 2026
Biggest questions A Good Girl’s Guide season 3 must answer
Pip Fitz-Amobi has one final mystery left to unravel.
A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder made its eagerly anticipated return this week for a second thrilling season, adapted from the bestselling novels by Holly Jackson.
On this occasion, Pip Fitz-Amobi (played by Emma Myers) investigates the disturbing disappearance of Jamie Reynolds (Eden H Davies), the elder brother of her friend Connor (Jude Morgan-Collie).
Elsewhere, Max Hastings (Henry Ashton) stands trial for drugging and assaulting female classmates, yet proceedings are thrown into disarray when Jamie surfaces before crucial evidence can be presented.
Now that another compelling six-part series has concluded with a breathtaking cliffhanger, we examine all the loose ends that a potential third season would need to resolve, reports Bristol Live.
**Warning – this article contains major spoilers for A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder season 2 and minor spoilers from the third book, As Good As Dead.**
Will Charlie and Flora face justice?
By the conclusion of Pip’s second investigation, the truth behind Jamie’s disappearance is revealed to be her neighbour Charlie Green (Jack Rowan), who had been hunting for Child Brunswick — the son of a notorious child killer who had lured his sister to her death.
Child Brunswick had been assigned a fresh identity under a witness protection scheme, and is unmasked as security guard Stanley Forbes (Misia Butler). Stanley meets his end in the finale at Charlie’s hands, who subsequently flees alongside his wife Flora (Anna Brindle).
By the season’s conclusion, audiences might question whether police eventually apprehend them. The third instalment in Jackson’s series, As Good As Dead, offers some resolution to this, though the adaptation may potentially pursue an alternative direction.
When will Max Hastings get taking down?
Pip finds herself incensed at the close of the second series when predator Max evades punishment, despite testimony from his victim Becca Bell (Carla Woodcock), after he attributed his offences to murder victim Sal Singh (Rahul Pattni), who couldn’t refute the accusations.
In the final episode, Pip conducts a funeral for Stanley and endures harassment from Max, who appears to have acquired a new girlfriend. She’s additionally enraged by graffiti daubed on a neighbouring structure stating “Child killer burn in hell Child Brunswick”, presumably created by Max or his associates.
Max cannot face retrial, but has Pip devised a plan to bring about his downfall? Again, this matter is explored in As Good As Dead and will presumably feature in the third series.
Who is Pip’s stalker?
Season two featured Pip receiving threatening communications from an unidentified stalker, which could represent further provocations from her adversary Max or potentially sinister warnings from another danger concealed in the darkness.
In the finale, her bedroom suffers an intrusion and she discovers repeated instances of the message “Who will look for you when you’re the one who disappears?” on her laptop.
This enigma provides the foundation for Jackson’s third instalment in the series, so everything will be unveiled should A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder progress.
Will Lauren and Robin split up?
A significant departure from the novels in season two involves the arrival of Max’s cousin, Robin Hastings (Freddie England), who starts a relationship with Pip’s friend Lauren (Yali Topol Margalith).
In the penultimate episode of season two, Lauren is last spotted at a family meal with Robin, Max, and their relatives, suggesting they remain together by the finale.
Nevertheless, in Jackson’s books, Lauren actually starts seeing a character named Ant Lowe, who hasn’t featured in the television adaptation. Fans may consequently witness her romance with Robin take a somewhat different trajectory in the third season.
What’s season three’s storyline?
Fans eager to discover what unfolds next are urged to read the third and concluding book in the series, As Good As Dead.
For non-readers, here’s a brief synopsis, according to HarperCollins: “Pip Fitz-Amobi is haunted by the way her last investigation ended. Soon she’ll be leaving for Cambridge University but then another case finds her… and this time it’s all about Pip.
“Pip is used to online death threats, but there’s one that catches her eye, someone who keeps asking: who will look for you when you’re the one who disappears? And it’s not just online. Pip has a stalker who knows where she lives. The police refuse to act and then Pip finds connections between her stalker and a local serial killer.
“The killer has been in prison for six years, but Pip suspects that the wrong man is behind bars. As the deadly game plays out, Pip realises that everything in Little Kilton is finally coming full circle. If Pip doesn’t find the answers, this time she will be the one who disappears…”
A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder season 2 is available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
Democratic and Republican candidates vying to replace Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom have been sparring on televised debates and exchanging campaign attacks since April to garner the attention of voters statewide.
The candidates include a Riverside County sheriff, a former senior advisor to British Prime Minister David Cameron, a former Los Angeles mayor, a billionaire hedge fund founder and two former members of the U.S. House of Representatives.
Recent polls showed that the leading Democratic candidate is Xavier Becerra, a former U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services whose campaign is focusing on affordability and housing for what he calls “working Californians.” Vying for one of the top two spots in the June 2 primary are Republican contender Steve Hilton, a former Fox News commentator who was endorsed by President Trump, and Democratic billionaire Tom Steyer, a hedge fund founder turned environmental warrior.
Here is what the top candidates have said on important topics such as immigration, housing and homelessness, affordability and the entertainment industry.
Immigration and ICE
The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids that began in California last summer have been hotly debated by Democratic and Republican candidates.
Here is what the candidates said during a debate in May or stated on their websites, as well as some criticism they have faced during the campaign.
Xavier Becerra vowed to protect and lead the state against the Trump administration’s attacks on immigrants and marginalized communities. Becerra’s rivals have accused him of failing to protect migrant children when he served as Health and Human Services secretary under the Biden administration.
Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco opposes “sanctuary city” laws that block local law enforcement from assisting federal immigration agents, calls for the deportation of criminal illegal immigrants and says the border must be secured. But he has also faced criticism from fellow Republicans for supporting a pathway to citizenship for lawful, working undocumented people and telling his constituents that his deputies were not taking part in Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids.
Former Fox News host Steve Hilton, who legally immigrated to the United States from the United Kingdom, opposes California’s state and local sanctuary policies, and said the state must cooperate with the federal government because the governor’s job is to enforce laws, whether the governor agrees with immigration enforcement activity or not.
San José Mayor Matt Mahan plans to demand ICE officers be unmasked, vows to go after agents and immigration agency leadership when they violate the constitution and shield communities from unwarranted harassment.
Former Congresswoman Katie Porter said California should enforce its sanctuary laws statewide, “so we don’t have crazy cowboys taking the law into their own hands.”
Billionaire hedge fund founder Tom Steyer wants to strengthen California’s laws to ensure law enforcement agents can’t profile Californians based on their race, ethnicity, language, occupation or location. He also wants legislation that will grant the state attorney general the authority to hold ICE agents accountable for violent and illegal acts on the job. He supports abolishing ICE. But he has faced heat on the campaign trail for his former hedge fund’s investment in the Corrections Corp. of America, now known as CoreCivic, which operates private prisons around the nation that are housing people picked up by federal immigration agents. Steyer has repeatedly expressed remorse about his former firm’s ties with the company and said he personally ordered the divestment from private prisons before he sold his stake in the hedge fund.
State Supt. of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond says he plans to levy a new tax on companies that operate ICE detention centers, fight to abolish ICE, protect California’s sanctuary laws and work with Congress to establish a pathway to citizenship.
Former L.A. Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa supports helping law-abiding immigrants and said violent criminals have been deported under the state’s sanctuary laws, despite claims to the contrary by Republican candidates.
Housing and homelessness
Here’s what each candidate said about the need to address the state’s housing shortage and its stubborn homeless problem:
Becerra said he plans to cut “unnecessary red tape” and speed up “approvals for projects that meet affordability and environmental standards.” On homelessness, Becerra said he wants to establish a $150-million annual homelessness prevention fund to pay rents and fight eviction or foreclosure.
Bianco said he wants to end “overregulation of our building industry” and eliminate the California Environmental Quality Act, the California Coastal Commission and the California Air Resources Board. On homelessness, he wants cities to clear encampments and prioritize mental health and substance abuse treatment. He wants to force people to accept drug treatment “when necessary.”
Hilton proposes to reform the California Environmental Quality Act so that only government prosecutors can sue, preventing private individuals and organizations from stopping or delaying new housing projects. He also said he believes rent control measures reduce the incentive to build housing and wants to restructure or eliminate them. On homelessness, Hilton wants to build more low-cost group shelters instead of permanent housing.
Mahan said he wants to lower developer fees and taxes for infill housing. Mahan also said more homes should be built off-site in California-based factories, making them cheaper than building them on site. On homelessness, Mahan wants to make the state’s Homeless Housing, Assistance and Prevention grant permanent and fund it at $1 billion a year.
Porter said she would “greenlight innovative building strategies, shred unnecessary red tape and create incentives” to build needed housing. On homelessness, Porter wants more interim housing, emergency rental assistance and rapid rehousing programs.
Steyer is pledging to make it harder for large corporations to buy up the state’s housing stock and wants to encourage cheaper methods of home construction. On homelessness, Steyer wants to expand interim housing options and homeless services.
Thurmond said he wants to build 2 million new homes for “working Californians,” on 75,000 acres of surplus land that local school districts own. On homelessness, Thurmond wants to increase the number of housing units that include mental health and substance abuse services.
Villaraigosa said he wants to cut development fees and reform CEQA to speed housing development, particularly for infill housing. On homelessness, Villaraigosa wants to double the state’s investment in Newsom’s Homekey program to build an additional 10,000 units of permanent supportive housing over five years.
A comprehensive guide on the candidate’s full views on housing and homelessness is here.
What the candidates have said about affordability
The candidates offered their ideas for making California more affordable during debates in April and May as well as on their websites.
Becerra said he will stand up to price gouging and unjustified rate hikes and use the power of the state to lower prices “where the market has failed.”
Bianco says he wants to cut taxes for working families and businesses, stop the “over-regulation on California’s economy,” support job growth and unleash the state’s energy resources to lower the price of gas and utilities.
Hilton said he wants to eliminate income taxes on people who earn less than $100,000 and on the first $100,000 for Californians who earn more than that. He also wants to end California’s current tax on tips to ensure tipped workers keep more of their earnings.
Mahan said he wants to enact a “Gas Tax Holiday” that ends or reduces the tax on gas. He also wants to remove barriers to building affordable housing by putting a cap on fees charged for new housing construction.
Portersupports single-payer healthcare, providing free child care and college tuition and making wealthy corporations pay their “fair share” in taxes. To pay for it, Porter would impose a progressive corporate tax, meaning more profitable businesses and corporations would pay a higher rate. She also supports ending income taxes for those who earn less than $100,000.
Steyer called himself the only candidate who is “willing to take on the corporate special interests” that drive up the cost of living in the state. He said he would like to lower gas prices as well as streamline permitting, reform zoning and enforce laws to build affordable homes faster. He also supports single-payer healthcare.
Thurmond wants to provide a tax credit to make it easier for Californians to pay for the rising cost of gas, groceries and housing. He plans to establish a universal childcare program and provide low-cost loans to help small businesses make improvements at their firms.
Villaraigosa plans to support a California Fuel Affordability Guarantee to cap gas prices for working families.
The entertainment industry
Here’s what some candidates have listed on their campaign websites about their ideas to support California’s entertainment industry.
Becerrasupports state requirements that mandate productions disclose how AI is being used, cutting the “bureaucratic friction” of getting a filming location permit and vows to uphold the state requirement that ensures digital platforms share meaningful performance data with the cast, writers and directors.
Hilton wants to restore California’s competitive edge as a place for productions by creating financial incentives for film productions, cover the initial and technical costs associated with the development of a film or television project and reserve funding for independent and mid-budget projects.
Mahan said he plans to expand and modernize production incentives, make them more competitive and ensure the protections are for everyone who works on a film or television project from the technical crew to writers, directors and actors.
Steyer said he would like to block corporate mergers in entertainment, defend and expand film tax credits and eliminate the regulations and hurdles for permitting and logistics that “slow down productions.”
Times staff writers Seema Mehta, Nicole Nixon and Andrew Khouri contributed to this report.
With just days left to cast your vote in California’s primary election on June 2, The Times has answers to your last-minute questions about the voting process.
Here’s what you need to know:
What are the key races to watch?
The California governor’s race is a tight battle between Democrats and Republicans who are vying to replace Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom, who is serving his second term and cannot run again. Top candidates include a Riverside County Sheriff, a former senior advisor to British Prime Minister David Cameron, a former Los Angeles mayor, a billionaire hedge fund founder and a member of the U.S. House of Representatives. Your guide to the race for California governor can be found here.
In the Los Angeles city mayoral race, incumbent Karen Bass faces a reelection challenge from a field of candidates that include a reality TV personality, a tech entrepreneur, a City Council member and a progressive community leader. Your guide to the L.A. mayor’s race can be found here.
What is on the ballot?
There are several races, ballot measures, local district seats and statewide races that Southern Californians must decide on.
Most of the attention will be on the races for California governor and the mayor of Los Angeles.
City of Los Angeles residents have several other items to consider, including:
County of Los Angeles residents will be asked to vote on:
Voters will decide on six local congressional district seats and other statewide races including the:
A comprehensive breakdown of each race or proposed tax measure can be found here.
What is an open primary?
An open primary allows the top two candidates who garner the most votes to move on to the general election in November, no matter what party they belong to.
This system could allow two candidates from the same party to advance to the general election.
Is it too late to vote by mail?
No. You can return your vote-by-mail ballot by:
Dropping it off in the return envelope at a secure official drop box now through the close of polls on June 2.
Dropping it off in person at a polling place, vote center or county elections office by 8 p.m. on June 2.
Dropping it off at the post office. Mailed ballots must be postmarked on or before election day and received no later than 7 days after election day. To ensure your ballot is postmarked by election day, mail it at least five days before June 2. If mailing on election day, get a hand-stamped postmark from a postal employee at a United States Post Office.
What is the deadline to return a vote-by-mail ballot?
In order to be counted, vote-by-mail ballots must be postmarked on or before election day, June 2, and received by your county elections office by June 9.
How do I check if I’m registered to vote?
To find out if you’re registered to vote, visit the secretary of state’s website. You’ll need to enter a California driver’s license or identification number or the last four digits of your Social Security number.
You also can call the state’s voter hotline (available in 10 languages) at (800) 345-8683 to get a paper application mailed to you, or you can pick up one at a county election office, most California libraries and United States Post Office locations, as well as many federal, state and local government offices — including the Department of Motor Vehicles.
If you opted to register online, officials say you should wait at least 24 hours before checking your voter status.
How do I register to vote? Can I register on election day?
Eligible citizens who need to register or reregister to vote within 14 days of an election can complete this process to register and vote at county elections offices, polling places or vote centers.
To find an early voting location, use the secretary of state search tool here. You can find your local polling places here.
Your submitted ballot will be processed and counted once the county elections office has completed the voter registration verification process.
How do I check my voter status?
You can check your voter status from the California secretary of state website here. To find your record, you’ll need to provide your full name, date of birth, state driver’s license or identification card number and the last four digits of your Social Security number.
Where is my closest drop box?
Secure ballot drop-off locations opened May 5. You can visit the Los Angeles County Office of the Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk’s website here to find a ballot box near you.
Two major stars of BBC’s A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder have formed a close friendship on the set of the hit thriller’s second season
A Good Girl’s Guide stars living together after forming ‘brotherly bond’(Image: BBC/NETFLIX)
The pair play brothers in the BBC phenomenon’s second season.
A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder stars Jude Morgan-Collie and Eden Hambelton Davies have revealed they’re now living together after portraying brothers in the BBC drama’s second season.
The popular series based on the books by Holly Black premiered back in 2024 and quickly generated a passionate fanbase, which continued to grow once the first season was released internationally on Netflix.
With millions of fans expected to tune into the second season, now on iPlayer as of Wednesday, 27th May, they’re keen to know more about the show’s stellar cast.
Emma Myers will of course be returning as teenage sleuth Pip Fitz-Amobi, who is now investigating the mysterious disappearance of Jamie Reynolds, portrayed by newcomer Eden Hambelton Davies.
Speaking to Reach ahead of the premiere, the actor revealed he quickly forged a strong bond with his co-star Jude Morgan-Collie, who portrays his younger brother Connor.
“To step into that world that’s already pre-established, I think there’s an expectation that comes with joining an already made cast and you’d expect it to sort of just be work, and it absolutely wasn’t,” he shared.
“It was a fantastic opportunity, I’ve met some people I hope will stay in my life for a very long time, forever. I live with Jude Morgan-Collie, who plays my brother in the show.”
Based on Black’s second novel in the series, Good Girl, Bad Blood, season two darkens the tone this time around with new directors Asim Abbasi and Jill Robertson taking the helm, as well as the author taking on screenwriting duties to ensure the adaptation remains faithful to the gripping source material.
Rather than feeling daunted by the prospect of joining the cast of a highly anticipated second outing, Hambelton Davies reveals he “slot right in” with the ensemble.
“The cast is so well-established with one another,” he went on, “the chemistry is so fantastic, to step into that and be so welcomed in, which I was, it’s impossible not to get an exact understanding of the mood and slot right in, so I felt very welcomed.
“It made the work a lot easier and allowed me to feel more comfortable, but also, as a person, it was such a lovely privilege to be welcomed in as I was.”
Watch Unchosen on Sky for free
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This includes the brand new UK drama Unchosen, starring Asa Butterfield and Christopher Eccleston.
His co-star Morgan-Collie also confirmed their living situation, saying: “It’s very cool. I’ve done another show where I’ve had a sibling [Here We Go], so it’s always really fun to play with that dynamic. And having any family in a show and getting them in the scene is always really fun.”
He also revealed that their friendship started with a misunderstanding: “I remember both of our first days in Bristol for season two, I said ‘let’s go for a brotherly pint’.
“I’ve since learned that he didn’t realise that it was me who texted him and he just thought that someone in the cast had worded something really weirdly. He didn’t realise that I was saying ‘let’s work on this!’
“But I think, as a cast, we’re all really close, and we were very quick to become mates,” he added. “Despite playing my older brother we’re the same age and we’re young adults and we’re living here in a new city, we’re messing about. It’s really good fun and we got a lot of downtime in the evenings so we’re all going out for dinner and stuff. It’s good fun.”
Filming for the second season wasn’t all fun, however, as Morgan-Collie recalled a particularly difficult scene. “I got slammed against the bonnet of a car for a day,” he recalls.
“At first I was like ‘Hell yeah, this is wicked’. Then you very quickly learn… it gets old very quickly.”
Tune into another instalment of the BBC’s enthralling young adult thriller to find out why.
A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder season 2 is available on BBC iPlayer and internationally on Netflix.
