After wrapping up her stellar rookie campaign, Clark took the first couple of months in the offseason to relax and work on her golf game. Fans were hopeful this meant she was gearing up to participate in the highly anticipated ‘Unrivaled’ league. But those hopes were dashed when ESPN reported that she wouldn’t be part of it.

However, there’s one place Clark will absolutely be making an appearance: Carver-Hawkeye Arena on February 2nd.

The Iowa Hawkeyes recently announced they would retire Clark’s iconic No. 22 jersey that day, coinciding with their game against Juju Watkins and the USC Trojans. For CC, this event is about more than just her jersey—it represents the memories, camaraderie, leadership, and excellence she brought to the court during her college years.

She’ll join an elite group, becoming only the third player in program history to have her jersey retired, alongside Megan Gustafson and Michelle Edwards.

The moment promises to be unforgettable, not just for Caitlin Clark, now an Indiana Fever sensation, but for everyone in attendance. It’s a fitting recognition for a player who averaged a jaw-dropping 31.6 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 8.9 assists per game in her senior year at Iowa.

However, there’s been a fair share of controversy surrounding this announcement, primarily because of the ticket prices.

Fans roast Iowa Hawkeyes for Caitlin Clark’s jersey price

The Hawkeyes’ announcement that game tickets cost up to $711 frustrated fans, leaving many bewildered. As the news spread, social media lit up with comments criticizing the program for capitalizing on Clark’s unmatched popularity.

One user commented, “She’s not even playing, just getting her jersey retired, and those prices are ridiculous!”

Others echoed similar sentiments, with one remarking, “Iowa, that’s nasty work.”

In her four years at Iowa, Clark delivered historic numbers, averaging 28.4 points, 8.2 assists, and 1.5 steals per game over 139 contests. Her shooting accuracy was equally remarkable, with 46.2% from the field and 37.7% from beyond the arc. She also holds the title of the NCAA’s all-time leading scorer across both men’s and women’s divisions.

“Well deserved. But who would pay 711 just to see that lol, waste of money,” wrote another individual on X.

USA Today via Reuters

As Clark bids farewell to the jersey she wore while making history, emotions will undoubtedly run high. Still, the ticket prices have left some fans questioning whether it’s worth the cost. Even during her final home game last season, standing-room tickets were $358, while regular seats went for $450. Now, the cheapest seats for this event are listed at $711 on TickPick, making it the most expensive women’s college basketball game in history.

One fan wrote, “$711? You’ve got to be kidding me!”

Another added, “Still a little pricey—no WNBA game costs that much, but I get it. Make as much as you can off it.”

The steep prices have sparked debate, but demand is at an all-time high for what will undoubtedly be a historic event. What do you think? Will fans shell out this much for a chance to celebrate Caitlin Clark’s legendary college career?

The year is about to end, yet the negativity from some camps toward Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark hasn’t stopped.

Recently, Clark was named Athlete of the Year by Time Magazine. But Washington Mystics owner Sheila Johnson didn’t agree, claiming that race was a factor in Clark getting the honor and the entire WNBA should’ve been featured instead.

Johnson swiftly earned backlash for her remarks, with fans and Clark’s fellow athletes coming to the defense of the Fever guard.

Former NBA player Matt Barnes also joined the fray, ripping Clark’s haters and stressing her wide impact on the WNBA. He also acknowledged the difficulty of Clark’s position as a national phenomenon.

Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark in action in the 2024 WNBA season.

“She’s damned if she does and she’s damned if she doesn’t,” said Barnes on the “All the Smoke” podcast.

Amid the recent criticisms from Johnson, the 44-year-old Barnes also touted Clark as the WNBA’s “golden goose.”

“While the NBA ratings continue to drop over 30% as they try to figure out who’s going to fill the shoes of LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Steph Curry, the WNBA has a golden goose sitting in their league,” added Barnes, who won a championship with the Golden State Warriors in 2017.

He admitted that Clark wasn’t alone in bringing the WNBA to greater heights this season and named Las Vegas Aces star A’ja Wilson as the league’s best player.

He, however, maintained that the 22-year-old Clark brought a “ton of opportunity and more money” to the WNBA compared to any other player.

“So instead of downplaying the magnitude of who she is and what she’s brought, enjoy the ride and take advantage of the ride and do everything you can do to show the fanbase why they should’ve been watching before Caitlin came along,” said Barnes.

In an unforgettable moment at Taylor Swift’s much-awaited Eras party, Travis Kelce surprised fans by stepping into the spotlight most charmingly. The NFL star made a toast that stole hearts, and that was just the beginning of an evening filled with fun and laughter.

At the glamorous Eras-themed bash, which was held to celebrate Taylor’s musical journey, Kelce joined Swift and her close-knit circle of friends. But it wasn’t just the cozy atmosphere that had everyone talking. Travis, ever the life of the party, grabbed a microphone to raise a toast, expressing his admiration for Taylor and the bond they’ve built.

“To a friendship that means the world,” he said, sparking cheers from the room. His heartfelt words weren’t the only thing that got the crowd buzzing. The Kansas City Chiefs tight end also showed off his dance moves, hitting the floor with Taylor and her crew. It wasn’t long before he was seen grooving with Swift’s best friends, adding a fun energy to the night.

The dance floor came alive as the group vibed to some of Taylor’s biggest hits, from Love Story to Shake It Off. Travis’s natural charisma and easygoing attitude made him blend right in with Taylor’s inner circle, and fans couldn’t get enough of the pair’s chemistry.

Although Taylor and Travis have kept things low-key, their public outings continue to spark excitement among fans. From cozy dinner dates to shared moments at her concert, the pair’s connection has kept everyone guessing. But at this Eras party, it was clear they were more than just friends, with Travis proving that he’s not only a football star but also a great addition to Taylor’s star-studded circle.

As the night came to a close, the pair’s smiles and laughter said it all. Taylor Swift’s Eras party might have been about celebrating her iconic music, but it also showcased just how much fun and magic can happen when friends come together to celebrate life’s special moments.

Stay tuned for more updates on this trending duo as they continue to take the world by storm!

Inside Taylor Swift’s Historic Beverly Hills Home

 

Taylor Swift, the globally acclaimed singer-songwriter, owns a stunning historic estate in Beverly Hills. Purchased in 2015 for $25 million, this mansion, known as the Samuel Goldwyn Estate, reflects the grandeur of old Hollywood. Built in 1934, the property spans 10,982 square feet and features six bedrooms, seven bathrooms, and a range of luxurious amenities, including a library, a guest suite, and a home theater.

Historic Charm and Modern Amenities

The estate combines historic charm with modern comforts. Original features such as intricate moldings, grand fireplaces, and vintage light fixtures are preserved, maintaining the property’s historic integrity. The spacious living room, formal dining room, and gourmet kitchen are perfect for entertaining guests. The estate also features state-of-the-art technology and modern appliances seamlessly integrated into the classic design.

Lavish Interiors

Each room in the house is designed with elegance and attention to detail. The master suite includes a private sitting area, a luxurious bathroom, and a walk-in closet. The additional bedrooms are equally well-appointed, offering comfort and privacy. The home also includes a cozy library with built-in bookshelves, perfect for quiet reading, and a home theater for private screenings of Taylor’s music videos and favorite films.

Expansive Grounds

The outdoor area of the estate is equally impressive. The lush, landscaped grounds feature a swimming pool, a tennis court, and beautiful gardens. Several outdoor seating areas provide the perfect spots for relaxation and enjoying the serene surroundings. The property also includes a charming guest house, providing comfortable accommodations for visitors.

Prime Location and Celebrity Neighbors

Located in the exclusive Beverly Hills neighborhood, the estate is surrounded by the homes of numerous high-profile celebrities. The neighborhood offers privacy and security, making it a favored locale for celebrities and business moguls alike. Taylor’s neighbors include stars such as Jennifer Aniston, Adele, and Mila Kunis, ensuring a community of like-minded individuals valuing luxury and privacy.

Taylor Swift: A Modern Icon

Taylor Swift has established herself as one of the most influential artists of her generation. With numerous awards and record-breaking albums, she has left an indelible mark on the music industry. Beyond her musical achievements, Taylor is known for her philanthropic efforts and her influence in fashion and social media. Her Beverly Hills home reflects her success, style, and appreciation for history and luxury.

Conclusion

Taylor Swift’s historic Beverly Hills home is a true reflection of her success and refined taste. With its blend of historic charm and modern luxury, the estate stands out as one of the most prestigious properties in Los Angeles. This mansion is not just a home but a piece of Hollywood history, embodying the elegance and glamour of a bygone era.

 

“Jon Bon Jovi’s Wife Reveals: ‘He Was a Rock Star’ Even in High School!

The high school sweethearts opened up to Howard Stern about the early days of their love story, and how they celebrated their recent wedding anniversary

Jon Bon Jovi’s wife Dorothea is opening up about the early days of their romance as they celebrate their 34th year as a married couple.

The high-school sweethearts made a surprise appearance on SiriusXM’s The Howard Stern Show on Tuesday, where Dorothea, 60, told host Howard Stern about their recent celebration.

“We just had our 34th anniversary, Howard,” she said, to which Stern congratulated the longtime couple and asked how Bon Jovi, 61, had treated his wife on their special day.

“What did Jon do for your 34th anniversary — what was it? Besides, of course, making love to you that night. Did Jon take you in his arms and bring you to the bedroom on that night?” asked Stern, 69.

“Always, Howard,” Dorothea cheekily replied.

Jon Bon Jovi and wife Dorothea. Bennett Raglin/Getty

The radio host then went on to joke that the couple only “make love” to songs by Bon Jovi, to which Dorothea said, “Howard, I told you that in the strictest of confidences!”

Dorothea also opened up about the early days of her romance with the musician, whom she famously met and began dating during high school.

Stern asked about Bon Jovi’s status at the time, to which Dorothea replied he was “100%” the cutest guy in school.

Even then, in the early 1980s, he was rocking his signature look, she added: “Yeah, he was a rock star.”

Dorothea said that, while she and her friends “knew he played in a band,” they weren’t all that impressed by Bon Jovi’s extracurricular activities — that is, until she heard him perform for herself.

Jon Bon Jovi and wife Dorothea in 1998. Steve Granitz/Wireimage

“I just remember being impressed that you could sing,” she told her husband.

“Was he good?” Stern asked, to which Dorothea replied, “He was very good.”

Despite his impressive talents even then, Dorothea’s friends and family weren’t exactly convinced of the two’s pairing.

“That was the family’s response,” Bon Jovi said as Stern joked that the idea of marrying a wannabe singer wasn’t exactly a stable choice at the time.

Dorothea added, “That was everybody’s response. And I remember somebody told me a story and then I said, ‘Well, my boyfriend’s gonna be a rock star,’ and they were like, ‘Good luck with that.’ “

Jon Bon Jovi and wife Dorothea. Theo Wargo/Getty

Bon Jovi’s surprise cameo on Stern’s radio show marked his second appearance on a SiriusXM show this week. On Tuesday, he called in to Andy Cohen’s Radio Andy and opened up about his son Jake Bongiovi’s recent engagement to Millie Bobby Brown.

“I don’t know if age matters, if you find the right partner and you grow together,” Bon Jovi replied when Cohen, 54, asked if the musician worries his child is too young for marriage.

As someone who got married young and wed his own longtime high-school girlfriend, the singer said he wasn’t concerned.

“That would be my advice, really,” he said. “Growing together is wise. I think that all of my kids have found people that they think they can grow together with and we like them all.”

Along with Jake, 20, Bon Jovi and Dorothea also share daughter Stephanie, 29, plus sons Jesse, 28, and Romeo, 19.

Jon Bon Jovi and wife Dorothea in 2016. Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty

The singer then shared that he’s “of course” seen Stranger Things, the show that launched Brown’s career in 2016, before praising the young actress.

“Millie is wonderful. Her whole family are great,” Bon Jovi said of his son’s fiancée. “Jake is very, very happy.”

The two began dating in 2021 and have been notoriously public with their romance and their mutual adoration for each other.

In a New Year’s Day post, Brown, 19, called Jake her “partner for life” as she reflected on 2022 and its ups and downs.

“Here’s to another year with you and the wonderful people and animals around us 🤍 let’s do it again but better!” the actress wrote on Instagram.

“Shocking Fallout: Why Richie Sambora Skipped Jon Bon Jovi’s MusiCares Person of the Year Ceremony.

A source tells PEOPLE that Sambora’s 89-year-old mother “tripped on her carpet,” causing her to fall and break her hip last week

Richie Sambora; Jon Bon Jovi. Photo: Kevin Mazur/Getty; Emma McIntyre/Getty

Richie Sambora missed Jon Bon Joni’s 2024 MusiCares Person of the Year ceremony on Friday for one important reason — his mom.

A source tells PEOPLE that Sambora’s 89-year-old mother “tripped on her carpet,” causing her to fall and break her hip last week. According to the source, Sambora, 64, has been caring for her in his home state of New Jersey.

“She’s been in rehab and recovering, and he went through the whole house and renovated it. He bought her smaller furniture to make it easier for her,” the source tells PEOPLE.

Richie Sambora in Los Angeles in January 2023. Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty

“She didn’t want to stay in the hospital, so he got her 24-hour care. He’s an only child and a devoted son,” the source adds. “They’re first-generation immigrants, so family is very important to him.”

On Friday, Bon Jovi, 61, was honored for his philanthropic work with the JBJ Soul Foundation. The Recording Academy’s philanthropic organization celebrated his efforts with a gala that included a cocktail reception, dinner, and performances from artists playing tribute to the rocker.

Fans can expect the Jon Bon Jovi frontman and his former bandmate to recall their rise to stardom in the upcoming four-part docuseries Thank You, Goodnight: The Bon Jovi Story, set to premiere on Hulu on April 26.

“The series relives the triumphs and setbacks, greatest hits, biggest disappointments, and most public moments of friction,” a project description reads.

Richie Sambora and Jon Bon Jovi in Hollywood in December 2012. Jesse Grant/Getty

Along with 40 years’ worth of personal videos, the docuseries will feature unreleased demos, original lyrics, and “never-before-seen photos that chronicle the journey from Jersey Shore clubs to the biggest stages on the planet.”

News of a docuseries comes years after Sambora decided to leave the band in 2013. Bon Jovi told PEOPLE in 2016 that it had been a while since they last spoke.

“The same place it stood three and a half years ago,” he said when asked where their relationship stood. “Nobody has spoken to him. I’m never going to badmouth the guy. He’s a wonderful friend, wonderful collaborator.”

Richie Sambora and Jon Bon Jovi perform in June 1995.Dave Hogan/Getty

“It wasn’t a popular decision by any means, obviously, but there was really almost no choice about it. I had a lot of conscious work to do around [my personal life]. We’ve been through a lot of things together. That was a time of psychological maintenance for the family. You know, I ain’t no angel. But I realized Ava needed me to be around at that point in time,” he told PEOPLE. “Family had to come first, and that’s what happened.”

Sambora hasn’t ruled out the possibility of a reunion, however. He told PEOPLE in November 2023 that it “definitely could happen.”

“It’s just a question of when everybody’s ready to go do it. It will be a big, massive kind of undertaking,” he told PEOPLE.

Jon Bon Jovi Reflects on His Career: ‘I Was Never Any of the Clichés of Rock Stardom’

The rocker looked back on his 40-year career at a screening of his band’s docuseries, ‘Thank You Goodnight: The Bon Jovi Story’

Jon Bon Jovi in New York City in September 2023. Photo:  John Nacion/Getty

Jon Bon Jovi is reflecting on his 40-year career.

Speaking during a Q&A at a screening of his band’s docuseries, Thank You Goodnight: The Bon Jovi Story, in Santa Monica on April 10, Bon Jovi, 62, opened up about his career and shared how he has never been a stereotypical musician because he knew “I had to wake up the next day and do it again.”

“I was never any of the clichés of rock stardom because I was very cognizant of having to do it again tomorrow,” explained the singer. “But that’s the fragility of something as big as your thumbnail. And I never took any of this for granted, never.”

“Like I said, it’s my 18th album and we worked as hard or harder on this album as I did on Slippery When Wet, in fact, harder because we’re not as naïve as we were in 1986 when we just went, and guess what? We just wrote … Now you’re working even harder and smarter.”

“But I do think sometimes about the athlete who eventually has to come to terms with a next chapter in their life, and I won’t ever have to face that next chapter,” he continued.

Jon Bon Jovi performs in Los Angeles in February 2024.Amy Sussman/Getty

Bon Jovi then went on to muse about the pressure that comes with being the frontman of an iconic rock band and fulfilling fans’ expectations.

“It’s not easy,” he said. “It’s difficult. The old adage with me in the heyday is, and the singer went home, that was the end of every story and the singer went home.”

“We all go on the social media and we see pictures from our pasts or we see our heroes in our past, and then you want to touch that moment again. But that’s history,” he continued.

“Then you just have to be the best version of you now. And it’s impossible to go back to 1995 and be that kid again. I challenge him, but I can’t pretend to be that. You can’t do that. And I think the question is do we because of social media, get caught up in that we need to be younger, faster, sleeker, or are we going to be cool with being comfortable with who we are now? Just the best version of us now.”

David Bryan, Richie Sambora, Jon Bon Jovi, Tico Torres and Alec John Such in August 1987.Birmingham Post and Mail Archive/Mirrorpix/Getty

The rock act— which is fronted by Bon Jovi and also features keyboardist David Bryan, drummer Tico Torres, guitarist Phil X and bassist Hugh McDonald — announced their 16th studio album Forever last month. The record is due to be released on June 7 via Island Records.

Slippery When Wet, which went 12-times platinum, remains the group’s most successful album.

The band’s four-part docuseries, which features interviews with current and past band members like Bon Jovi, David Bryan and Richie Sambora, will be released on Hulu on Friday, April 26.

Elsewhere during the Q&A, the “Livin’ on a Prayer” singer also offered an update on his health after undergoing vocal surgery in 2022.

“What you saw on film was shot last March in that scene when I couldn’t sing well, or two years ago when I was on the road,” Bon Jovi said. “I’m well into the recovery. I’m more than capable of singing. It’s just that for me, the bar is two and a half hours a night, four nights a week, before I say we’re going to go and do any shows.”

“So I’m well back on the road to recovery, not a day of its easy. Every day is a struggle, but I’m more than capable of doing it again,” he added.

Jon Bon Jovi and Armin van Buuren Unveil Remix of Bon Jovi Classic at Ultra Festival: ‘Can’t Actually Believe This Happened’

The Bon Jovi frontman made a special appearance during the Dutch DJ’s set at the Miami festival on Sunday night

Jon Bon Jovi made an unexpected appearance this weekend.

On Sunday night, the Bon Jovi frontman, 62, joined Armin van Buuren during his set on the main stage at 2024 Ultra Music Festival in Miami.

“I remember being a little kid and buying this guy’s album,” the Dutch DJ and producer, 47, told the crowd in video footage, before Jon walked onstage in a white T-shirt, jeans and sunglasses, exclaiming: “What up, Ultra?”

Jon Bon Jovi Performs with Armin van Buuren at 2024 Ultra Festival.Armin van Buuren/Youtube

The “It’s My Life” artist then began jumping alongside van Buuren as he played his remix of Bon Jovi’s 1992 hit “Keep the Faith,” and then Jon stood on the decks to sing along to the remix, which featured the “Lose the Feeling” artist putting a bombastic kickdrum to the “everybody needs somebody to love” segment of the track.

“Ultra make some noise for this legend Mr. Jon Bon Jovi!” van Buuren screamed mid-song, as the electric song built up and pyro elements took over the performance.

Jon Bon Jovi performs with Armin van Buuren at 2024 Ultra Festival in Miami.Armin van Buuren/Youtube

“It’s an incredible honor to remix this track and to share the stage with Jon Bon Jovi, as I’ve been a massive fan for years,” the electronic artist told Billboard in a statement. “This track is different from anything I’ve ever released before, and no better place to first share it with you all than on the Ultra main stage.”

van Buuren commemorated their team-up on Monday with an Instagram post, which featured video footage of him introducing the rocker and them behind the decks, a photo of the duo standing behind the decks and an image of the pair in front of a high-rise in Miami.

“Can’t actually believe this happened! Thank you so much @jonbonjovi from @bonjovi for coming on stage with me to play my remix of ‘Keep The Faith’ 🙏 I’ll forever remember this moment!” the “Sucker for Love” performer captioned the post.

Jon’s appearance at Ultra might be one of the few live appearances he has for a while.

As Bon Jovi gears up to release its 16th studio album, Legendary, the Grammy winner has been considering whether it is in the best interest of his health to tour again after undergoing vocal cord surgery in 2022.

During a radio interview earlier this month on Mix 104.1 Boston, Jon explained that he’s “still recovering from a major surgery,” but the “goal” is to tour once he’s able to give fans the best show possible.

When asked about his plans to promote the forthcoming LP on the road, he admitted, “I don’t know about a tour. It is my desire to do a tour next year, but I’m just still recovering from a major surgery.”

What It’s Really Like to Go on a Jon Bon Jovi Cruise: One PEOPLE Editor’s Journey

Four days on a rock-and-roll-themed sailing turned a live music skeptic into a certified Jovi Junkie

Though I’m a seasoned cruiser, I was admittedly slightly nervous when I was assigned to set sail on the Runaway to Paradise with Jon Bon Jovi cruise this past April. Would a celebrity-themed trip veer so far from the traditional cruising experience that it wouldn’t resemble the vacation model that I know and love? Did I have to be a ride-or-die Bon Jovi fan to truly appreciate the full experience?

As “Livin’ On a Prayer” blared through the speakers three times within the first hour of boarding Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Jade ship in Miami, I feared my worries were valid. I watched anxiously as the crew of Sixthman—the production company behind the cruise that puts on a ton of flawlessly-executed music festivals at sea—was setting up the main stage over one of the pools.

It’s at this point that I must make a shocking admission: I don’t really like music festivals, or live music in general. I know, I know…perhaps this was not going to be the journey for me.

Friday, April 12

Immediately, I noticed there’s a camaraderie on board this boat that’s far greater than your average cruise. This is no doubt thanks to everyone instantly connecting over their love for Bon Jovi, but the man himself isn’t at the center of every connection. Case in point: As I waited in line to get WiFi, a woman who I did not know told me that her recent 23andMe DNA test led her to discover that her father was not her biological father. We had not left the dock yet.

I downed a Miami Vice (a glorious combination of piña colada and strawberry daiquiri) as the ship set sail, a tradition of mine that instantaneously calmed my nerves owing to both the familiarity of the ritual and the extra floater of rum I requested.

Beyond the friendliness of the passengers, there were a few other delightful things I noticed about this cruise right away. First, the Norwegian Jade: It’s an older ship, and less flashy than some of the fleet’s newer models like the Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Joy, but it was refurbished in 2017 and it shows. While it lacks the more headline-grabbing amenities like an onboard water park or go-kart track, the cleanliness and intimate feel of the ship made it a perfect vessel for the 4-night journey—which everyone was on for the music anyway.

The Sixthman staffers also provided a positive difference from other cruises I’ve taken. Members of the company’s ultra-friendly and robust crew were stationed throughout the ship, answering any questions guests had. It’s an additional level of hospitality that does not go unnoticed.

Finally—and most notably—there were practically no kids. While this isn’t explicitly an adults-only cruise, there seemed to be an unspoken agreement among everyone on board to leave the little ones at home, something I appreciated greatly.

As the evening unfurled, the live performances began on the main stage—while Jon Bon Jovi wouldn’t join us until the following night, there were a host of other bands like Tonic and Collective Soul on the weekend’s lineup—and the raucous energy of the crowd was in full force. Servers were handing out unlimited glasses of Hampton Water rosè (Bon Jovi’s business venture with his son Jesse Bongiovi) and everyone was ready to get after it.

I was not quite ready to commit so fully, so I quietly excused myself to dinner at Cagney’s, Norwegian’s signature steakhouse. While on more typical sailings it can be hard to snag a reservation at specialty dining restaurants, on this night they were completely empty as everyone soaked in the live music, and I enjoyed my wonderfully-cooked veal chop and a fudge brownie in quiet solitude, but for “Livin’ on a Prayer” playing on the speakers.

As night fell, I watch a movie in which Jennifer Lopez played a grocery store clerk, wondering if I was alive.

Saturday, April 13

It is a day at sea, my favorite kind of day. I notice that the towels provided in my cabin match flawlessly with the outfit I had planned for the day, so I found a fellow journalist I had befriended the day before and made her photograph me for Instagram.

With that out of the way, it was time to get serious. It was noon and Slippery When Wet, a Bon Jovi cover band, was playing their first of what I believe was 150 sets during this cruise, and all of the passengers who had stayed out at least 5 hours later than me were already surrounding the stage.

On the pool deck with a perfect view of the stage, we met a group of women all sporting the same “Jovi Junkie” t-shirts and hats. They were from the Chicago suburbs and had left the kids at home for a girls’ trip — something they do semi-annually. When I ask where they usually go, the response was: “Wherever Bon Jovi goes.” I felt dumb for asking.

I learn that Jovi Junkie is the name of their online apparel shop for Bon Jovi fans. It is etched on the thermoses they were all carrying, which were full of vodka and club soda with a hefty splash of zero-calorie Crystal Light flavor drops in them. I was told, repeatedly, that each thermos contains only 37 calories. And just like that, I’d found my tribe.

One hundred and eleven calories later, we noticed that we’d docked in the Bahamas — a surprise because our port day in Nassau wasn’t supposed to be until Sunday. As it turned out, we were picking up the real Bon Jovi! The energy on board bumped up from a 10 to roughly a 14 with his presence on board. That evening, he played an acoustic storyteller set, answering audience questions and weaving them effortlessly into slowed-down versions of his hits. I know more Bon Jovi songs than I realized, and found this to be a relaxing exercise.

After the show, I went for a meet and greet. I tried to jog his memory about the time I interviewed him for approximately five minutes two years earlier, as though he’d thought of nothing since. He nodded graciously and took a photo with me.

We made a quick stop back at Nassau to drop off Bon Jovi. He would be back.

Sunday, April 14

The port day in Nassau came at just the right time. I used the loving break from the ship and the Jovi Junkies to explore the island, eat whole fried fish (at a lovely spot called Fish Fry), and do a spontaneous photo shoot with strangers I met on the beach, who may or may not be actual models.

When we left port, it was time for the main event. The real Bon Jovi show, with electric guitars and such. By this point, I was accustomed to the concept of live music, and even comfortable with it. If the energy the night before was a 14, tonight it was equal to the amount of calories in a thermos of vodka and zero-calorie Crystal Light drops (37) for show number two.

Bon Jovi’s performance was electrifying. When he wasn’t playing his hits, he played covers of other popular songs (a particularly on-point rendition of the Rolling Stones’ “Honky Tonk Woman” still sticks out in my mind.) There was never one of those dreaded “I’d like to workshop some new material” moments.

All of the Jovi Junkies said this was the most intimate concert of his they’d been to, and I felt it. Rather than a sold-out stadium like Madison Square Garden, which holds 20,000+ people, this ship holds 2,200, and it really did feel like a personal experience.

After the concert, I went for my second-night-in-a-row Bon Jovi meet and greet. As I walk up to shake his hand, he said: “You’re back.” It was hard to get a read on the tone with which he said this, but regardless, he remembered me, and my work here was done. I stayed out late that night.

Monday, April 15

This was the roughest day…or, at least, morning. I dragged myself out of bed eventually, and headed to lunch. One unique feature of this sailing was that they had transformed one of the restaurants into a pop-up version of the Jon Bon Jovi Soul Kitchen, which is his pay-if-you-can restaurant that started in New Jersey.

I enjoy a delightful meal there that concluded with a ten-out-of-ten molten chocolate cake, which happens to be my favorite dessert. It was restorative, but the previous night’s festivities still rendered me immobile until nighttime, when I meet my Jovi Junkies at the ’80s silent disco on board for just long enough to get an Instagram photo.

Tuesday, April 16

When I woke up, we are back in Miami. I don’t know that I could’ve survived another day—it was exactly the right amount of time for my personal journey—but ultimately the infectious spirit on board was too powerful even for my cynical heart. Four days, two flawless Jon Bon Jovi sets, and so many glasses of Hampton Water rosé later, I was a certified Jovi Junkie—though I’m still not quite ready to hear “Livin’ on a Prayer” again.

The Main Takeaway: If you’re a die-hard Bon Jovi fan, this is an absolute bucket-list-item adventure (and there’s another one sailing from Spain in August!). And if you’re not, hey, you just might become a convert.

Livin’ on a Prayer — and Big Hair! 16 Totally Epic Photos of Bon Jovi on Tour in the 1980s to Take You Back

The band’s first major headlining tour supported their ever-popular ‘Slippery When Wet’ album

Bon Jovi in 1987. Photo: Birmingham Post and Mail Archive/Mirrorpix/Getty

It doesn’t get more ’80s than this.

In 1986, the members of Bon Jovi — Richie Sambora, Jon Bon Jovi, Alec John Such, Tico Torres and David Bryan — embarked on their Slippery When Wet Tour, traveling the globe in support of their hit album of the same name. After kicking off in Canada, the group traveled to Japan and Australia, through Europe and to just about every city in America to belt their hits like “You Give Love a Bad Name” and “Livin’ on a Prayer.”

“We thought we had a really good record,” frontman Jon Bon Jovi recalled on a 2021 episode of the Rockonteurs with Gary Kemp and Guy Pratt podcast. It was: the album itself went 12-times Platinum and the tour was a major financial success for the group.

Grab your neon leggings, crimp your hair and take a trip back to the late 1980s with some incredible photos of the band on the Slippery When Wet Tour.

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With the Band

Richie Sambora, Jon Bon Jovi, Alec John Such, Tico Torres and David Bryan of Bon Jovi.Lester Cohen/Getty

Bandmates Richie Sambora, Jon Bon Jovi, Alec John Such, Tico Torres and David Bryan celebrated their record achieving gold status in 1986.

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Hair Apparent

Jon Bon Jovi.Ross Marino/Getty

Ahead of the band’s Detroit tour stop in 1987, frontman Jon Bon Jovi posed for this glamour shot.

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Let It Rock

Alec John Such and Richie Sambora of Bon Jovi.Ross Marino/Getty

Alec John Such and Richie Sambora rocked it out onstage in Detroit in 1987.

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Wild in the Streets

David Bryan and Jon Bon Jovi.Ross Marino/Getty

Taking off after their Detroit show, David Bryan and Jon Bon Jovi played a game of cards on their private plane.

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Livin’ on a Prayer

David Bryan, Richie Sambora, Jon Bon Jovi, Tico Torres and Alec John Such of Bon Jovi.Birmingham Post and Mail Archive/Mirrorpix/Getty

At the 1987 Monsters of Rock festival at England’s Castle Donington, David Bryan, Richie Sambora, Jon Bon Jovi, Tico Torres and Alec John Such posed in all their glory.

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You Give Love a Bad Name

Jon Bon Jovi and Richie Sambora.Ross Marino/Getty

Jon Bon Jovi and Richie Sambora had some fun on stage during one of their 1987 tour stops.

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Wanted Dead or Alive

Tico Torres, Richie Sambora, Alec John Sutch, Jon Bon Jovi and David Bryan of Bon Jovi.Ilpo Musto/Shutterstock

While on the road in 1987, the group posed for another iconic portrait.

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I’d Die for You

Jon Bon Jovi.Trevor James Robert Dallen/Fairfax Media via Getty

On stage in Sydney in 1987, Jon Bon Jovi showed off his signature smile.

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Without Love

Jon Bon Jovi.Ross Marino/Getty

Frontman Jon Bon Jovi managed to have fun backstage at a show in 1987, too!

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Slippery When Wet

Jon Bon Jovi.Bill Marino/Sygma via Getty

Is Jon Bon Jovi’s hair also slippery when wet?

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Edge of a Broken Heart

Richie Sambora of Bon Jovi.Ross Marino/Getty

Guitarist Richie Sambora was always one for on-stage theatrics.

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Social Disease

Jon Bon Jovi.Ross Marino/Getty

Jon Bon Jovi’s late-’80s tour style included glimmering jackets and lots of hair accessories.

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Raise Your Hands

Jon Bon Jovi. Trevor James Robert Dallen/Fairfax Media via Getty

Jon Bon Jovi was doing aerial tricks even before Pink!

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Picture Perfect

Ross Marino/Getty (2)

Backstage on a 1987 tour stop, the band took these amazing portraits. Here’s keyboardist David Bryan and Jon Bon Jovi.

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Take Two

Ross Marino/Getty (2)

And feast your eyes on guitarist Richie Sambora and drummer Tico Torres.

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Never Say Goodbye

David Bryan, Tico Torres, Jon Bon Jovi, Richie Sambora and Alec John Such of Bon Jovi. Paul Natkin/Getty

Never stop rocking, guys.