10 McDonald’s Ordering Hacks Savvy People Know

Yasmein James
Jan 18, 2018

We don’t care what anybody says, McDonald’s will always be the ultimate guilty pleasure even if you’re ordering a vegan option. To ensure that you make the most of all your visits to the Golden Arches, we’ve compiled 10 ordering hacks you need to know. Their all-day breakfast might be long gone, but there are still plenty of tricks that will seriously upgrade your fast food experience. Keep reading for savvy tips that’ll have you singing badabababaa.

Brunch Half Hour

If you arrive at McDonald’s between 10:30am and 11am, AKA the sweet spot when breakfast is about to end and lunch is about to begin, you’ll get the best of both worlds. You can order a stack of fluffy pancakes and an original cheeseburger or any other lunch option your heart desires. (via POPSUGAR)

McCrepe With Berries

What do you get when you combine an order of fluffy pancakes with a fruit and yogurt parfait? Your very own fast food version of French cuisine with this DIY McCrepe. Creamy yogurt and sweetened berries make it extra delicious. Ooh la la. (via Cosmopolitan)

Steamed Bun

Some people go years before tasting the wonder that is the Filet-O-Fish. We think this is pure injustice for more reasons than one. First, it’s always — and we mean always — made to order. Second, it’s made with a soft, pillow-like steamed bun much different than those used for the typical burger. And much, much better. Here’s a secret: You can order it for any sandwich. We repeat, any sandwich. So whether you’re a fan of the Big Mac, Quarter Pounder, or even the original burgers in Happy Meals, this bun switch will change your life (and meal). (via LA Weekly)

Real Eggs = Round Egg

If you want a freshly griddled egg on your breakfast sandwich, one that looks like you cooked it yourself, order a “round egg.” That’s right, the round egg is actually a freshly cracked egg, cooked in a round mold on the flat top and served to you fresh. (via Serious Eats)

Fresh Fries, Please

There’s nothing better than piping hot fries with just the right amount of salt sprinkled on them. While you can order no salt to ensure you get fresh fries every time, we suggest just asking for fresh fries. Here’s why: When you order no salt, the person working at the fry station has to clean everything down. Can you feel the eye roll? We can. Unless you have to order fries with no salt for health reasons, don’t do it — simply ask for fresh. (via New York Post)

Get Those Onions Outta Here

There are some people who love onions on everything. Then there are those who can take them or leave them. If you’re the latter, we recommend you leave them. That’s the best way to ensure that your burger is freshly made and assembled. As simple as it is, that small change will force the sandwich makers to prepare you a new burger. You’re welcome. (via POPSUGAR)

Big Mac Dupe

Quick — what’s the best ingredient of a Big Mac? We highly doubt it’s just the two burgers or the three bun pieces. We bet it’s the Mac Sauce because it’s *always* the sauce. So, if you’re looking to save a little dough, order a McDouble without the traditional fixings like ketchup and mustard. Instead, order it with the Mac Sauce for a budget-friendly Big Mac. Voilà. (via Business Insider)

McChicken Salad

Every once in a while, you’re in the mood for something… lighter. If that’s the case, order a McChicken sandwich with extra lettuce and hold the bun. Then order a side salad with your dressing of choice. Once you’re sitting, chop your way to a simple (Mc) chicken salad that’s as good for your pocket as it is for your belly. (via BuzzFeed)

Caramel Apple Pie Sundae

It’s not on their dessert menu, but miniature pies in those convenient cardboard boxes can easily get an à la mode upgrade. All you have to do is order an apple pie (or two) and a caramel sundae. When you order, ask for an extra cup so when you chop up the apple pie, you can get the ice cream to apple pie ratio just right. (via New York Post)

Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Sandwich

There’s no need to wait until summer to indulge in a refreshing ice cream sandwich. Head to your favorite Mickey D’s and order two chocolate chip cookies and your favorite McFlurry. Sandwich the ice cream between both of the cookies and chow down. (via Today)

What’s your favorite McDonald’s ordering hack? Let us know by tweeting us @BritandCo.

(Photos via Joe Raedle / Getty, McDonald’s)

23 Starbucks Copycat Recipes Your Wallet Will Thank You For

One of the hard facts of life is that sometimes you have to accept that your favorite Starbucks drink just doesn’t vibe with your wallet. But that doesn’t mean you have to swear off your coffee addiction altogether!

If you look hard enough, there’s actually a Starbucks hiding in your kitchen. Okay, not actually — that would be weird — but with a few ingredients, you can recreate your favorite treats with Starbucks hacks at home. From breakfast wraps to Frapps, here are the Starbucks copycat recipes you need to access all things Starbies at home.

Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars

This Starbucks copycat recipe is still as gooey and sweet as the OG. Using all fresh ingredients to make these bars will make them even better than the drive-thru! (via Brit + Co)

Starbucks Peppermint Mocha

This seasonal drink doesn't have to be just for the holidays anymore! Simply follow the copycat recipe and adjust the sweetness, type of milk, and garnishes how you like 'em. (via Brit + Co)

Starbucks Bacon & Gruyere Egg Bites

Starbucks' egg bites will always be famous. Recreate the best flavor at home with under 10 ingredients! (viaBrit + Co)

Starbucks Medicine Ball

The citrusy-sweet effect of this Starbucks copycat recipe will keep you company on sick days or cold winter nights. Plus, it's only 4 ingredients? Say less. (via Brit + Co)

Starbucks Lemon Loaf

There's no doubt that the lemon loaf is one of the best items on the Starbucks breakfast menu, but they can get pretty pricey once you start ordering them regularly. This copycat recipe yields a slice just as soft, sweet, and lemon-y! (via Brit + Co)

Starbucks Caramel Brûlée Latte

Now you can enjoy your go-to seasonal bev year-round! This caramel-infused Starbucks drink earns a dessert-y feel, which is perfect for pairing with bedtime. (via Brit + Co)

Starbucks Eggnog Latte

R.I.P. the original Eggnog Latte! Luckily, you can revive the now-discontinued drink right at home super easily with eggnog, espresso, and nutmeg. Add a splash of Baileys if you're feelin' fiesty! (via Brit + Co)

Starbucks Iced Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso

Gotta love some shaken espresso for on-the-go! Start your mornings off strong with this intensely-caffeinated iced coffee that won't cost $6 each time you drink it.(via A Virtual Vegan)

Peach Green Tea

​One of our fave Starbucks hacks is asking for a splash of peach juice in our iced teas. As opposed to Starbucks' pre-made peach tea, this copycat recipe leverages ​fresh ​peaches for a ridiculously refreshing sip! (via Hello Little Home)

Starbucks Mushroom & Spinach Egg White Bites

The best thing about this Starbucks copycat recipe is that you can easily customize what goes into them. Instead of the expected mix of mushrooms and spinach, try adding bacon, sausage, cheese, peppers, and more. (via Kathryn's Kitchen)

Starbucks Iced Pistachio Latte

With this copycat cup, you'll first craft your very own pistachio syrup. It'll yield a ton of syrup that you can use for drinks in the future. It's a massive time-saver, plus it's tasty AF! (via Pink Owl Kitchen)

Starbucks Cinnamon Dolce Latte

Make sure to brew an extra strong cup of espresso for this latte. The bitterness of the espresso strikes a not-too-sweet balance with the addition of brown sugar and cinnamon spice! It’s a more indulgent way to get your daily dose of caffeine. (via Diethood)

Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins

These muffins are addictive! But, like anything you get from Starbucks, the money you spend will rack up quick. Opt to make an entire batch at home to last you and the fam weeks – instead of minutes. (via Averie Cooks)

Starbucks Petite Vanilla Scone

Use vanilla bean paste in this scone’s frosting for a punched-up dessert flavor. It’s one way to make your morning meal feel like a special treat! (viaCrazy For Crust)

Starbucks Iced Pumpkin Spice Latte

PSL season doesn't have to end in October! Keep all things pumpkin goin' past fall time with this easy copycat recipe. It uses pumpkin puree to keep the flavor fresh and authentic. (via Vanilla and Bean)

Healthy Homemade Strawberry Frappuccinos

You can have your strawberry Frappuccino and drink it too with this easy Starbucks copycat recipe. It’ll turn your post-gym smoothie into a healthy Frappuccino that only tastes like an indulgence! (via Desserts With Benefits)

Starbucks Copycat S’mores Frappuccino

This copycat S’mores Frappuccino recipe is like a quick camping trip... without all the bugs, dirt, and potentially inclement weather. Enjoy this chocolate-y drink in the comfort of your home, with ingredients you have in your pantry! (via Baking Beauty)

Pumpkin Scones

Not-too-sweet pumpkin scones get a double dose of vanilla icing in this Starbucks copycat recipe. One icing is plain and sweet, while the other packs a pumpkin-spiced punch. Now you can experience fall any time you want! (via Brown Eyed Baker)

Healthy Iced Coffee

This skinny vanilla iced coffee doesn’t require a trip to the store or Starbucks. It’s only three ingredients — coffee, your milk of choice, and vanilla extract. Yay, saving money! (via iFoodReal)

Copycat Starbucks Passion Tea Lemonade

The key to recreating passion tea lemonade in your home is Tazo Passion Tea bags. From there, all you need is lemonade and a dash of vanilla extract. (via Cincy Shopper)

Vanilla Iced Chai Latte

Jazzing up your chai with vanilla is such an easy idea. Plus, this make-at-home bev is only three ingredients and takes just over five minutes to make. Never wait for your name to be called out again. (via Mom Makes Dinner)

Starbucks Copycat Spinach Feta Wrap

Recreating this Starbucks wrap at home lets you add more ingredients that the original might lack. Add extra feta cheese or spinach to satisfy your morning cravings! Best of all, you can really taste the difference in freshness with this Starbucks copycat recipe. (via The Big Man’s World)

Oat Milk Hot Chocolate

Hot chocolates are classic – but there's no need to go spend $7 on a single drink when you have all you need to make one at home! Sugar, cocoa powder, water, salt, and oat milk make this sipper super easy. The marshmallows and shaved chocolate garnishes are optional, but we say go for it! (via Earthly Provisions)

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Lead image via Pink Owl Kitchen.

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.

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Olivia Munn Bravely Shares Mastectomy Scars In Latest Skims Ad

Olivia Munn bared it all in her latest SKIMS ad, proving you don't have to hide your scars. The actress posed in a campaign for Breast Cancer Awareness Month, supporting Susan G. Komen®and highlighting her own journey with the disease. She looked absolutely stunning in every photo, but the most gorgeous moment was the way Munn didn't shy away from showing her mastectomy scars. She spoke to TODAY about her experience during the shoot, and why she ultimately decided to ditch her insecurities. Here's what she had to say!

SKIMS

Munn shared with TODAYthat she didn't initially plan to show her scars on the set. The campaign was focused on her recovery post-breast cancer diagnosis, but the makeup artist had a hard time covering up the scars throughout the shoot. She explained that she took a look in the mirror and thought, "I’m done being insecure about my scars." From there, she took the idea to show them off to the SKIMS team — and the rest is history.

SKIMS

And while she was scared to be so vulnerable on camera, this was ultimately a really empowering move for Munn. She elaborated that there are "so many women that have these same scars" who feel just as insecure as she did about them — and she really hopes those women see this ad. "Skims is so iconic and associated with beauty and sex appeal, and cancer really doesn't have that same connotation," she said. "So I just really hope that other women who have gone through my same path feel a little better after seeing it."

SKIMS

The star also took to Instagram to give a behind-the-scenes explanation of her experience. She reiterated that she was "done being insecure" about her scars. "Every mark life has left behind on my body is proof of how hard I fought," she wrote. "I hope other women who have been self-conscious about their scars see these photos and feel all the love I’m sending."

She also shared that SKIMS will donate 10% of their bra sales (except bralettes) to Susan G. Komen® — a charity dedicated to finding a cure for breast cancer — from October 23-31 in stores and online. "It’s really meaningful to be part of an initiative that supports research and helps countless individuals impacted by breast cancer," she said.

SKIMS

All of this comes on the heels of Munn's announcement earlier this year that she was diagnosed with breast cancer. She revealed the diagnosis came after recently tested negatively for well-known breast cancer genes and had normal results from her annual mammogram — but her doctor to check her Breast Cancer Risk Assessment Score. The test showed Munn had a 37% risk of breast cancer, so she pushed for more answers that eventually lead to her diagnosis.

Since then, Munn shared with PEOPLE that she had 4 surgeries in 10 months and underwent medically-induced menopause — all the while juggling being a new mom with husband John Mulaney. She shared, "I'm lucky. We caught it with enough time that I had options. I want the same for any woman who might have to face this one day."

SKIMS

After that March announcement, it's clear Munn is dedicated to raising awareness for women's health — and particularly their options. While chatting about the SKIMS campaign, Munn told TODAY, "You've got to go your doctor and you inundate them with information and you don't stop until they give you the test you need."

If you want to test your own risk for breast cancer, the National Institute of Health has resources here.

Looking for more celebrity news? Be sure to follow us on Facebook so you never miss a thing!

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14 Starbucks Summer Drink Hacks That'll Save You Tons Of Money

Few things sound better on a hot summer day than your favorite ice-cold Starbucks drink. The only problem is that your wallet would highly disagree with that statement! Thankfully, there are plenty of Starbucks copycat recipes available for making your go-to beverages yourself.

We’re sharing 11 ways to hack your way around the Starbucks menu. Whether you're looking to recreate a seasonal sip or you just want to save a few bucks here and there, things are about to get *really* caffeinated. Keep reading to broaden your barista repertoire!

Matcha Lemonade

Matcha and lemonade are a match made in heaven. The earthiness of the matcha balances out the tartness of the lemonade to make for one really refreshing summer sip. (via Takes Two Eggs)

Iced White Mocha

The Iced White Mocha is a total classic when it comes to Starbucks summer drinks, especially if you crave beverages on the sweeter, milkier side. It's super easy to hack at home – just follow this recipe and make sure to serve up some fresh pastries to go with! (via Barley & Sage)

Iced Brown Sugar Oat Milk Shaken Espresso

Ever since this drink hit Starbucks menus, we've been obsessed. The BSSO combines sweetened shaken espresso shots with oat milk and cinnamon, and you'll be addicted, too, once you make it from the comfort of your home. Drive-thru who?!(via Hello Little Home)

Pink Drink

The Starbucks Pink Drink is our go-to order when it's sunny and warm outside. You can choose to omit the coconut milk or leave it in for creamy effect. P.S. this drink tastes even better at home when you use fresh strawberries as the garnish! (via The Girl on Bloor)

Oreo Frappuccino

Coffee + Oreos = maximum yum. This Oreo Frapp basically emulates the Mocha Cookie Crumble that you could find on menus a while back, and boy, is it delish! Make sure to save yourself a couple cookies for a snack! (via The Edgy Veg)

Iced Matcha Green Tea Frappuccinos

Vegan options at Starbucks have come a long way in the last few years, but it can still be a hassle to figure out what you can order if you eat a plant-based diet. This matcha Frapp dupe tastes just like the coffee shop’s option, but is totally vegan and sugar-free. (via Crazy Vegan Kitchen)

Iced Pistachio Latte

A sincere staple on the Starbucks winter menu by now, the Iced Pistachio Latte is definitely one you wanna know how to make yourself. The pistachio syrup is honestly too simple to be true, and it'll last you for tons of homemade coffee drinks. (via Pink Owl Kitchen)

Mango Dragonfruit Refresher

Fresh and fruity, this Starbucks Refreshers copycat recipe uses just 5 ingredients and a blender to create a slushy concoction that'll boost your mood and your energy levels! (via Clean Cuisine)

Copycat Starbucks Mocha Frappuccino

If you’re curious about how to make your favorite iced coffee order at home, simply stalk the barista as they’re making it! A pump of this and a scoop of that later, you’ll learn how to prepare anything, like this creamy Mocha Frappuccino. (via Cincy Shopper)

Copycat Birthday Cake Frappuccino

This popular limited-time Starbucks treat is a total throwback! If your cravings for the Birthday Cake Frappuccino have lingered (even though the drink is retired), this homemade version will undoubtedly satisfy. (via The Domestic Rebel)

Homemade Mocha Coconut Iced Coffee

If you can believe it, this iced mocha with coconut is better than the original. Why? Three words: coconut whipped cream. (via How Sweet Eats)

Copycat Caramel Waffle Cone Frappuccino

Nothing says summer quite like an ice cream cone. The only thing better would be Starbucks’ caffeinated sippable version, with actual pieces of waffle cone mixed in. Learn how to make your own version of this retired drink ASAP. (via Southern Couture)

Copycat Starbucks Strawberries and Creme Frappuccino

Remember the days when you weren’t sure how you felt about coffee, but you still wanted to feel cool and order something from Starbucks? We’ve all been there. On occasions when you want to feel a bit nostalgic, this glorified strawberry milkshake will make your day. (via Mom Foodie)

Copycat Smores Starbucks Frappuccino

Fans of this frozen drink wait all year to see if their summertime favorite will return to the menu. Now, you can be one of the few who are already making it in the comfort of their own home. (via Baking Beauty)

Follow us on Pinterest for more easy + delicious recipe ideas, and subscribe to our newsletter for more Starbucks news!

Lead image via Crazy Vegan Kitchen.

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.

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The 'Severance' Season 2 Trailer Is Finally Here & I Have So Many Questions

The cast and crew of Severance are finally returned to the office after months of waiting for production to resume, and we finally have a first look from the new season! Apple TV+ just posted a teaser image from season 2 of cast member Adam Scott holding a bunch of blue balloons. We don't quite know the significance of this picture to the plot, but we do know we are pumped to see it!

Executive producer, Ben Stiller, spread the news about the Apple TV+ series’ return back in January 2024 with a quote tweet simply commenting, "back to work.”

Adam Scott also teased the Severance season 2 production in an Instagram post the same month, saying it’s “lovely being back at the office.” Severance season 2 is officially back on track. Here’s everything we know about the upcoming season!

Watch The Official 'Severance' Season 2 Trailer!

Adam Scott is back in the first teaser trailer for Severance season 2 — and spends the entire trailer running from his problems (relatable). It appears that despite the fact Mark's innie retreats at the end of season 1, it looks like he wakes back up in the elevator and has lots of surprises waiting for him in the office.

Is there a release date for Severance Season 2?

Apple TV+

Severance Season 2 Release Date

Yes, we finally have a release date for Severance season 2! The sophomore season will hit Apple TV+ on January 17, 2025.

What is Severance about?

Apple TV+

Severance Season 2 Plot

Severance is a fictitious psychological thriller TV series that’s focused on a biotech company named Lumon Industries. In the show, Lumon Industries has popularized a procedure called ‘severance’ that separates their employees’ work selves from their personal lives. Essentially, when Lumon employees are at work, they can’t recall anything outside of work, and vice-versa when they aren’t at the office.

The first season of Severance follows Lumon Industries employee, Mark (portrayed by Adam Scott). Throughout the first season’s nine episodes, Mark and his coworkers begin to learn more about the severance procedure, their double-lives, and Lumon Industries’ true objectives – and it all begins to unravel in a mysterious way.

Who stars in Severance?

Apple TV+

Severance Season 2 Cast

Adam Scott, Patricia Arquette, John Turturro, Christopher Walken, Zach Cherry, Britt Lower, Tramell Tillman, Jen Tullock, Dichen Lachman, and Michael Chernus are all part of the main cast in Severance.

Deadline confirmed in 2022 that Gwendoline Christie, Bob Balaban, Merritt Wever, Alia Shawkat, Robby Benson, Stefano Carannante, Ólafur Darri Ólafsson, and John Noble are part of the Severance season 2 cast.

Where can I watch Severance?

Apple TV+

You can stream season 1 of Severance on Apple TV+. If you don’t already have a subscription to Apple TV+, you can try the platform 7 days free before subscribing for $9.99/month.

Why is Severance season 2 taking so long?

Apple TV+

Severance season 2 is taking so long because production was halted in the wake of last year’s writers strike.

The cast and crew began filming season 2 on October 3, 2022, with production shutting down on May 8, 2023. Since SAG-AFTRA has struck a deal with AMPTP studios, it’s “back to work” on the Severance set per executive producer, Ben Stiller.

Is Severance creepy?

Apple TV+

Severance follows the horrors that come with working in an office, so yes, it’s creepy. Just kidding (sort of)!

The surreal tone of Severance definitely makes it creepy. There’s an ongoing feeling that someone – or something – is constantly keeping watch and wants to gain control. This tone, paired with the series’ clean, manicured (yet cold) visuals, chalks it up to be fairly disturbing.

The characters in the show become increasingly aware of this cryptic, surveillant presence, and the building tension definitely adds to the show’s creepiness. It’s also pretty existential, which is the creepiest feeling of them all.

Was Severance canceled?

Apple TV+

Severance was not canceled. (Thank goodness!) The production was put on pause due last May to 2023’s writers strikes, but it’s up and running now. We are enthused about the show’s return!

Never miss a new show or movie announcement by signing up for our weekly newsletter! Keep checking back here for more info.

This post has been updated.

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'Nobody Wants This' Season 2 Won't Feature This Controversial Couple

All it takes is a few episodes of Nobody Wants This to realize it's one of the best rom-coms of the year — and that Adam Brody is still super hot. The series, which also stars Kristen Bell, has gone viral for everything from its hilariously relatable approach to dating to "the best kiss of all time" to how eloquently it explains the fear that we're too much for a romantic partner. With an 8.1 out of 10 on IMDb, a 95 percent on Rotten Tomatoes, and literally millions of TikTok views, it's no surprise the show was just renewed for a second season. Here's everything we know about Nobody Wants This season 2.

What's going to happen in Nobody Wants This season 2?

Hopper Stone/Netflix

Creator Erin Foster just revealed Nobody Wants This season 2 is actually going to get rid of this tease from season 1: Morgan and Sasha's flirtationship. "I think we’re going to wrap up their weird 'Is it romantic?' thing. Because we want to see them together in season two, hanging out," she tells The Hollywood Reporter. "We want to see Esther. I think we went down that road enough that now we’re going to pull back and reposition so we can have them all in scenes together without [Morgan] being like, a full homewrecker. But we’re going to give Morgan something very fun. Justine [Lupe] came in and we pitched it to her and she was like, 'This is my dream storyline.'"

Is Morgan going to be swept off her feet? Or maybe she'll inherit a huge sum of money and become her own trophy wife. That would be SO Morgan.

Is there going to be a season 2 of Nobody Wants This?

Stefania Rosini/Netflix

Yes on October 10, Netflix announced that Nobody Wants This will be coming back for season 2. And (spoiler!!!) now that Joanne and Noah have decided to be together, and Noah's decided to give up his position as Head Rabbi, I have a feeling they'll have to deal with a lot of opinions. (Namely, Noah's mother).

"Creating Nobody Wants This will forever be a career highlight for me," creator Erin Foster says in a statement. "The incredible cast, crew, producers and executives all made this into the show it is today, and to experience viewers' reactions to this series now that it's out in the world has been more than anything I could have dreamed. I’m so lucky to be able to continue this story, and to do it alongside Jenni Konner and Bruce Eric Kaplan, who I've been such a fan of since Girls... Justice for healthy relationships being the most romantic!”

When is Nobody Wants This season 2 coming out?

Netflix

We know season 2 is coming out in 2025, but stay tuned for an official Nobody Wants This season 2 release date.

Who's in the cast of Nobody Wants This season 2?

Netflix

The Nobody Wants This cast includes Kristen Bell, Adam Brody, Justine Lupe, Timothy Simons, Stephanie Faracy, Tovah Feldshuh, Paul Ben-Victor, Michael Hitchcock, Jackie Tohn, Sherry Cola, Shiloh Bearman, and Emily Arlook.

Does Nobody Wants This End on a Cliffhanger?

Saeed Adyani/Netflix

Nobody Wants This might not end on the same kind of thrilling, dramatic cliffhanger as Outer Banks season 4 part 1, but it definitely leaves us with a ton of questions. How will Joanne and Noah's families react to the news? What does life look like as a couple? Will Joanne be able to flaunt their relationship in front of all the teenagers? No matter what comes, these two are very much in love, and I can't wait to see them continue to heal and grow together.

Adam Rose/Netflix

Check out 10 Reasons Nobody Wants This Is The Best TV Show Of The Year — and all the other October TV shows to watch this month!

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