Parade

It was already an emotional weekend for Al Rokerafter celebrating his daughter’s wedding overseas, but his trip home came with an unexpected request from the CDC.

During the Tuesday, May 12 broadcast of Today, Roker revealed that travelers returning from Europe were being encouraged to “voluntarily test” after concerns surrounding a hantavirus outbreak aboard the MV Hondius cruise ship.

“I was coming from Europe this weekend from my daughter's wedding, and the CDC was asking people to voluntarily test,” the 71-year-old shared on-air. “But they didn't say for what, so I just wonder if it was a precaution here.”

The CDC’s request comes amid growing concern over a hantavirus outbreak linked to a cruise ship that was recently evacuated in Spain’s Canary Islands. According to health officials, 16 Americans were transported to a specialized quarantine and monitoring unit in Omaha, Nebraska, while two others were sent to a similar facility in Atlanta. Three people have died from the virus so far, while additional passengers have tested positive or shown mild symptoms. 

The longtime Today meteorologist had just returned from celebrating daughter Leila Roker’s wedding to Sylvain Gricourt. The couple officially tied the knot over Mother’s Day weekend after announcing their engagement in March 2025.

READ MORE: Al Roker Makes Rare Comment on Retirement While Celebrating ‘Today’ 30th Anniversary

The happy family milestone also came during a particularly reflective season for Roker professionally. Just weeks earlier, the beloved NBC personality celebrated 30 years with Today, sparking speculation from fans about whether retirement could be on the horizon.

But according to Roker, he’s not going anywhere anytime soon. “Well, let’s put it this way. I haven’t thought about retirement. Somebody at NBC, that might be a different story,” he joked in a recent interview with People.

Roker, who officially joined Today in 1996 after replacing legendary weatherman Willard Scott, said he still genuinely loves showing up to work every day. “I love what I do,” Roker told the outlet. “I feel good. I love this job. I love doing it. At some point I guess I won’t be, but I don’t feel like that’s anytime soon, so I’m just gonna keep going.”

In 1991, a gritty Irish music film about an unlikely soul band became one of the most beloved rock movies of its era.

The Commitments, directed by Alan Parker, was recently included in Consequence's ranking of the greatest rock and roll movies of all time at No. 23, cementing its legacy as both a music and film classic.

Based on the novel by Roddy Doyle, the film follows a group of working-class Dublin musicians brought together by ambitious band manager, Jimmy Rabbitte, as he attempts to build a soul band inspired by classic American rhythm and blues.

What made The Commitments stand out was its authenticity. Rather than relying on established stars, the film cast mostly unknown actors and musicians, giving the performances a raw energy that felt real and spontaneous.

That realism extended to the music itself.

"When I arrived in Dublin, we immediately auditioned 65 bands and spent the next few months on a lengthy pub crawl as we trawled upstairs performance spaces to make sure we'd seen everybody – not an onerous task," Parker told The Guardian.

"We had an unusually long five-week rehearsal period, with dramatic rehearsals in the mornings and musical ones in the afternoons. Because we were so well prepared, the shoot ran smoothly. When you’re filming music, it lifts everyone."

The movie's soundtrack became a massive success around the world, featuring energetic renditions of soul classics originally recorded by artists like Otis Redding, Wilson Pickett and Aretha Franklin. The soundtrack went on to become one of the best-selling albums of the 1990s, far surpassing expectations for a relatively modest film.

"I didn’t want to cheat the singing or the music in any way," Parker told the Los Angeles Times. "The vocals were all recorded live to give a more honest and truthful effect and make the drama more believable."

Director Alan Parker, who also helmed music-driven films like Pink Floyd: The Wall, brought a kinetic energy to the performances that made audiences feel as though they were watching a real band come together in real time.

At its core, however, The Commitments is about more than music. The film explores ambition, friendship, class struggles and the fleeting nature of creative success, themes that gave it emotional depth beyond its soundtrack.

Over the years, the movie has remained a favorite among music lovers thanks to its humor, unforgettable performances and passionate celebration of soul music.

Its inclusion among the greatest rock and roll movies of all time reflects the lasting impact it had not only as a film, but as a cultural phenomenon powered by one of the most beloved soundtracks of its generation.

Related: 1989 Nostalgic Classic Film Ranked Among Best Rock Movies of All Time

It's an impressive enough accomplishment for a song to hit #1 at any point in time, but for a track to top the charts before it's even released is an especially big deal...and pretty rare. It has been known to happen, though, as with Don Henley's biggest solo hit: "Dirty Laundry."

Before "Dirty Laundry" was released as the second single from Henley's debut solo album, the scathing send-up of media sensationalism hit #1 on the Billboard Top Album Tracks chart before it was even released as a single in October of 1982. In fact, as GQ reported, the whole reason why "Dirty Laundry" was released as a single in the first place was because two independent promo men each called Asylum Records, telling them they'd be "crazy" not to promote the track.

In a 1991 interview with the outlet, Henley reflected on the inspiration behind "Dirty Laundry," which was written following the breakup of the Eagles.

“For a while, I was pacing a lot in the house and I was drinking a lot,” Henley said. “That was a really rough time for me.”

Henley's life would get even more complicated on Nov. 21, 1980, when a 16-year-old sex worker overdosed on Quaaludes and cocaine at his home and the rock star called the L.A. Fire Department for help. Later that same day, law enforcement officials showed up and arrested Henley after finding cocaine and marijuana in the house.

According to Henley, the fire fighters “just flat-out lied to me. They said, ‘Well, by law, we're supposed to take this little girl to the hospital, but if you’ll take care of her, we’ll leave her here...We’re not here to get anyone busted.’"

"She was fine by the time they got there," Henley continued. "I had no idea how old she was. I had no idea that she was doing that many drugs; I didn’t have sex with her, you understand. Yes, she was a hooker; yes, I called a madam; yes, there were roadies and guys in my house — we were having a farewell to the Eagles. I got all of them out of the house; I took complete blame for everything. I was stupid; I could have flushed ev­erything down the toilet. I didn’t want this girl dying in my house; I wanted to get her medical at­tention. I did what I thought was best, and I paid the price.”

After pleading no contest to a misdemeanor charge of contributing to the delinquency of a minor, Henley was fined and put on probation for two years. But what he really got out of the whole thing, of course, was a hit song firing back at the media for the way they cashed in on the scandal:

"I make my livin' off the evenin' news / Just give me somethin,' somethin' I can use / People love it when you lose / They love dirty laundry"

The catchy chorus sums it all up:

"Kick 'em when they're up / Kick 'em when they're down / Kick 'em when they're up / Kick 'em when they're down / Kick 'em when they're up / Kick 'em when they're down / Kick 'em when they're up / Kick 'em all around"

The lyrics aren't the only fiery thing about "Dirty Laundry," which also features two "scorching" guitar solos from Eagles guitarist Joe Walsh and Toto's Steve Lukather, as Ultimate Classic Rock put it.

Don Henley was a frustrated 'news junkie'

It wasn't just Henley's own experience with the media that frustrated him, as he explained later in a televised interview.

"I'm a news junkie," Henley said. "I watch the news a lot — local news, national news. And I got tired of seeing these talking heads up there stripping people of their dignity. I got tired of the sensationalism of the death of certain celebrities. You know, John Belushi, Natalie Wood, Marilyn Monroe, Elvis. I just got sick of reporters running up to some grieving Mexican woman down in the barrio whose child had just gotten shot in a gang fight and saying, 'How do you feel about that?' If that isn't the most absurd question you could ask...So I decided to write a song about it."

After it was finally released as a single, "Dirty Laundry" peaked at #3 on the Billboard Hot 100, the highest chart placement of any of Henley's solo hits.

Related: 1977 No. 1 Soft Rock Ballad Became a Timeless Ode to the 'Fleeting Nature of Love'

Keyla Richardson’s mother defended her after she placed third in the American Idol season 24 finale.

“My baby was robbed. She did not fail. She was robbed. I’m sorry. I’m gonna say it!!” Katja Richardson wrote via Facebook on Monday, May 11.

For her part, Keyla, 29, shared several messages of gratitude via social media as her American Idol journey came to a close.

“Lord I thank you, and again thank you for your protection,” she posted via Facebook on Monday.

🎬 SIGN UP for Parade's Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬

In a separate Instagram caption on Monday, she wrote, “The journey has been amazing, we are just getting started.”

The following day, Keyla shared a video with season 23 contestant Breanna Nix, who finished her American Idol stint in third place behind winner Jamal Roberts and runner-up John Foster in May 2025.

“Season 23 and season 24 third place finalist[s]! It’s NOT BAD AT ALL, it’s actually GREAT,” Keyla captioned the Tuesday, May 12, Instagram post. “I’m excited about what’s coming, it’s only up from here! Love you @breannanixmusic.”

During Monday night’s finale, Keyla performed guest mentor Alicia Keys’ 2009 song “Un-Thinkable (I’m Ready)” and “I Love the Lord.” She was then eliminated, concluding the season in third place. Hannah Harper went on to win the title of American Idol, while Jordan McCullough was named the runner-up.

American Idol judge Luke Bryan praised Keyla during the final episode of season 24.

“This whole year I just watched you focus with drive and determination,” he said. “We’ve seen you just give it your all for your family and your crew and your people, and you’ve won in our eyes.”

Bryan, 49, added, “Just watching you seize every moment has been so inspiring to me. Congratulations, great job.”

Prior to the finale, Keyla’s mom, Katja, reflected on her musical journey during a May 5 interview with WEAR Channel 3 News, a local outlet in the singer’s hometown of Pensacola, Florida.

“We started from church, and it took off from there, and she’s been singing ever since,” Katja said. “She was always around the house singing everything, anything. She loves music, so she’s singing from the heart.”

Katja also revealed how Keyla’s family—which includes her 9-year-old son, Drew—keeps her grounded by “just reminding her of who she is, where she came from and that she can accomplish anything.”

Jeff Probst is giving Survivor fans an answer about the show's future.

In an interview with TV Insider, the longtime host revealed when viewers can expect returning players to compete again after Survivor 50: In the Hands of the Fans.

"The chances are very good that you’ll see more returning players sooner rather than later," Probst said of the 50s era, which includes season 51 which is filming now in Fiji.

"Let me be clear, I love returning-player seasons!" he added. "They’re a lot of fun because there’s history, reputation, unfinished business, and the audience already has a relationship with the players before the game even begins. That’s very exciting!"

RELATED: Cirie Fields Shares Emotional Tribute After Ozzy Lusth’s ‘Survivor 50’ Exit: ‘Most Genuine Soul’

Survivor 50 marked the first time returning players were cast since season 40, Survivor:Winners at War. However, Probst says the string of all-newbie seasons was an intentional move on production's part.

"What people sometimes forget is that in order to have great returning-player seasons, you first have to discover great new players, let them play, and then give enough time for fans to miss them and be excited to see them again," Probst said. "You have to build the next generation before you can bring them back."

"Our last all-returning player season was [six] years ago with Winners at War. I know that can feel like a long time, but we have done a lot of returning-player seasons, and it was important to build a strong new bench of talent," he added. "I think we’ve done that. So yes, I’d say the chances are very good that you’ll see more returning players sooner rather than later on Survivor!"

The last two episodes of Survivor 50 air Wednesdays at 8 p.m. ET on CBS.

🔥Don’t miss our weekly Survivor newsletter! Sign up to get Mike Bloom’s exclusive interviews with the players and the latest news about the show right to your inbox.🔥

Ken Olin, the beloved former Thirtysomething star, doesn't look all that much like he did on the hit '80s show. However, it's safe to say he's having the time of his life in grandparenthood.

Olin, 71, rose to fame in the role of Michael Steadman alongside actors Mel Harris, Polly Draper, Peter Horton, Patricia Wettig, Melanie Mayron, and Timothy Busfield in the ensemble series Thirtysomething, which ran from 1987 to 1991 on ABC. His character was a staple of the series, serving as a steadying force throughout its run. Michael was married to Hope, played by Harris, and the duo navigated parenthood and careers in classic '80s style.

Flash forward to 2026, and Olin is still a staple of the entertainment industry, but he's also embracing grandparenthood with ease. Sporting long gray hair and a white beard, the actor, director, and producer shared a sweet photo of himself cuddling a bulldog puppy alongside his grandson.

"Elvis got a puppy," Olin captioned the sweet photo. Eagle-eyed fans who check out the comments will notice that Olin's Thirtysomething co-star and onscreen wife, Mel Harris, chimed in with "Does Elvis’s puppy have a name, Grandpa?" It's great to see they're still friends after all these years!

View this post on Instagram

🎬 SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬 

Olin is Married to His Thirtysomething Co-star, Patricia Wettig

While she didn't play his wife onscreen, Olin has been happily married to his Thirtysomething co-star, Patricia Wettig, since 1982. On Valentine's Day this year, Olin shared a sweet story about the day the couple met.

"The day we met I played this song for her; 'We Belong Together' by @rickieleejones_ . We’ve been together ever since. Yep. I had game then. Happy Valentine’s Day sweetie. And Happy Valentine’s Day to everyone who has love in their heart. @pwettig2," he captioned a black-and-white throwback photo of the duo, who have two children together.

View this post on Instagram What is Ken Olin Up to These Days?

After Thirtysomething concluded in 1991, Olin expanded his career tremendously behind the camera, working on shows including Alias, Brothers & Sisters, and This is Us. While he certainly kept acting, his work is largely done in the realm of producing and directing these days. Most recently, he's worked as a director on Tracker, the popular action drama series.

Related: ‘Thirtysomething’ Star Mel Harris, 69, Looks Better Than Ever With Gray Hair While Cooking on Her Farm

Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

If you're planning a summer getaway, then it's important to own comfortable footwear that you can count on. We normally love a seasonal shoe that's stylish, supportive, and long-lasting, which is why we often turn to brands like Clarks and Dr.Scholl's. Luckily, Amazon is selling amazing Clarks styles in spades, including the Clarks Drift Carmen Cloudsteppers Flip Flops, which are on sale for up to 46% off now.

The shoes, originally priced at $70, have been reduced to as low as $38 in the black colorway, making them a 90-day low price. You can shop for the sandals in three other colors — pink, cream, and blue — with the maximum price being $47. The available sizes run between 5 and 12, including half and wide sizes. Certain color and size combinations are already out of stock, so act quickly to get your desired size. 

Clarks Drift Carmen Cloudsteppers Flip Flops, From $38 (was $70) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at Amazon

The flip flops feature a wedge heel (that's coming back into style by the second) with a soft cushioned foam footbed that's shock-absorbent. The extra padding provides "cloud-like" support that allows you to wear them for long hours. The thermoplastic rubber outsole has traction for additional stability on more uneven ground. 

Overall, the design provides a casual look that you can wear to the beach or to seasonal dinners. Customers say that the style is so "simple" and "versatile," so you can wear them with everything from shorts to dresses throughout the warm season.

Clarks Drift Carmen Cloudsteppers Flip Flops, From $38 (was $70) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at Amazon

The thong flip flops further consist of a textile upper that's durable, unlike flimsier plastic flip flops, so they're slated to last a lot longer, even through more extensive wear and tear. Just note that they're not water-resistant if you plan on wearing them near the ocean or pool. Shoppers described the style as "amazing," "genuinely impressive," and ideal for "everyday summer wear."  

Related: Amazon’s $17 24-Piece Storage Containers Set Is 'Very Handy' for Keeping Cars, Drawers, Desks, and Bags Organized

"Right out of the box, they’re super comfortable," another customer wrote. "The cushioning is soft but still supportive, so I can walk around in them for hours without my feet getting sore." Plus they're "lightweight" despite the wedge heel, so they won't feel overly bulky while you walk. Some shoppers had difficulty finding the right sizing, so make sure to consult the size chart before purchasing for best results. 

Shop More Deals

• Clarks Breeze Reyna Cloudsteppers Flip Flop, $36 (was $55) at Amazon
• Nalanisa Short Sleeve Crochet Knit Top, $25 (was $37) at Amazon
• Soesyi Mary Jane Ballet Flats, $30 (was $46) at Amazon

These are the comfy shoes that everyone will be asking about this summer. Add these stylish flip flops to your Amazon cart while they're just $38! 

Don’t miss future deals! Sign up for Parade Picks to receive our commerce team’s curated selection of discounts and sales, twice a week.

If you love spending time outside, whether that means backyard dinners on the patio, camping under the stars, afternoons at the park, or packing up for weekend picnics, then you already know bugs have a way of showing up uninvited. Nothing ruins a relaxing meal faster than constantly swatting at flies or trying to keep mosquitoes from turning you into dinner. Sure, sprays and citronella candles can help, but sometimes you just want something simple, mess-free and actually convenient.

That's exactly why clever little gadgets like bug-repellent fans are catching people's attention. They're an easy way to keep pests at bay without coating yourself in sticky spray or overpowering your outdoor setup with strong scents. For anyone who'd rather focus on enjoying their food, company and the fresh air instead of fighting off bugs, this might just be one of those surprisingly useful warm-weather finds.

🎬 SIGN UP for Parade's Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬 

Ambiano Bug Repellant Fan, $6.99 at Aldi

Aldi

The Ambiano Bug Repellant Fans at Aldi are only $6.99 and all sorts of perfect for setting out on a picnic blanket or outdoor dining table to keep pests away. There's either the faux wood colorway shown above, or black or white options—so you can pick which aesthetic best suits your vibe.

Related: This Sleek Digital Gourmet Waffle Maker Is About to Elevate Your Next Brunch

What you want to keep in mind if you take the plunge on these fans is that they are pretty small, so they'll only help keep bugs away from a pretty compact surface area. That means if you have an outdoor dining table that seats four to six people, you're probably going to want more than one to make sure everyone seated is comfortable and bug-free.

The Aldi Finds aisle is a bounty of outdoor finds at the moment. From washable patio rugs to relaxing portable hammock chairs that you might just find yourself falling asleep in on a lazy summer afternoon. There are also whimsical finds that feel more decorative than, say, a bug-repellent fan, like solar lights that double as mini hot-air balloons with a blown-glass look. And, of course, if you want to entertain a crowd, a collapsible beverage dispenser is a must so that your guests can help themselves to a drink while you're tending to your other hosting duties.

Related: Kohl's Is Selling a 6-Piece Quick-Drying Towel Set in the Loveliest Spring Colors

Survivor fans continue to talk about Erik Reichenbach giving up his immunity idol 18 years later. It was considered the dumbest move in the game, but there have been 34 more seasons since it aired. There is one other move fans consider worse.

Fans Debate What's the Worst 'Survivor' Move Castaways during the reward challenge, "Faux Coconut Blowling," on the eighth episode of Survivor: Heroes Vs. Villains, Thursday, April 8 on the CBS Television Network.

Robert Voets/CBS via Getty Images

There is a new Reddit thread defending Erik. The fan explained that viewers forget "How desperate of a position he was in" for allies and "He was against Cirie [Fields] and Parvati [Shallow] who we all know are master class social players."

The writer argued that the Heroes tribe in Heroes vs. Villains agreed to send their idol to someone on the Villains tribe. It went to Russell Hantz. Other people commented other moments.

Related: Ozzy Lusth Reveals the Real Reason He Didn’t Play His Idol on ‘Survivor 50’ (Exclusive)

"The men's tribe going to tribal council after winning immunity on One World is the dumbest move in [the] history of the show," one of the top-liked comments read.

"Also [Yung Woo Hwang] taking Tony [Vlachos] to the end over [Kassandra McQuillen]," another fan suggested.

The other commenters disagreed with the original poster. "You…never see talked about?" a commenter replied. "JT [Thomas] sending the idol to Russell in HvV is one of the most discussed events in Survivor, ever. Probably top 5! The reunion of HvV literally has a segment comparing it to the other dumbest moves in survivor history like Erik, and proclaiming it even dumber than that!"

"JT sending the idol is talked about loads. It's still less dumb than Erik's move," another user replied.

It looks like this debate might never stop resurfacing. But at least newer castaways have learned from these seasons and haven't repeated their mistakes.

Related: Emily Flippen Says She’s ‘So Embarrassed’ by Her Messy ‘Survivor 50’ Gameplay (Exclusive)

What started as a Netflix crime thriller is now turning into a very real legal battle in South Florida.

Two Miami-Dade law enforcement officers are suing the production company behind The Rip, the Netflix drama starring Matt Damon and Ben Affleckthat premiered earlier this year, claiming the film unfairly damaged their reputations.

Outlets reports that the lawsuit, filed earlier this month names Artists Equity (the production company founded by Damon and Affleck) along with Falco Pictures. Officers Jonathan Santana and Jason Smith argue the movie borrows heavily from a real 2016 Miami Lakes drug investigation that resulted in the largest cash seizure in South Florida history.

During that operation, authorities discovered more than $20 million hidden in the attic of a Miami Lakes home, packed inside orange buckets after a yearslong drug trafficking investigation.

Santana, now a deputy with the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office, says the film crossed a line by depicting officers involved in a similar case as dirty cops. “When you rip something, you’re stealing something. We never stole a dollar,” Santana told Miami 7News.

According to the lawsuit, the officers have faced constant jokes and accusations since the movie’s January release, with people repeatedly asking Santana “how many buckets of money” he kept.

Attorney Ignacio Alvarez, who represents the officers, argued the film has caused lasting reputational damage. “They portrayed police officers as dirty, they portrayed my clients as dirty. Now their reputations are hurt,” Alvarez said.

🎬 SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬

The lawsuit also claims producers should have consulted Santana and Smith directly during development instead of using another officer who allegedly was not involved in the original investigation.

But the controversy surrounding The Rip isn’t entirely new in South Florida. Shortly after the film debuted, local officials in Hialeah criticized the movie for what they believed was an unfair portrayal of the area and law enforcement.

Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

Parade and ShopHQ are both owned by the same parent company. Featured products are selected independently by the editorial team at Parade.

Getting dressed in the spring can be tricky. The weather is often unpredictable, and while some days can feel like summer, others can feel like fall. So, it’s important to have cute and lightweight tops, dresses, and pants in your spring ensemble repertoire that you can layer or wear alone. The chic Christopher & Banks Raw Edge Y Neck Button Front Shirt is a great example of that. It’s on sale for just $10 — an incredible 83% markdown from its original $60 price. Plus, you can get it with $5 shipping for a limited time when you use the code FREERETURN. 

Christopher & Banks Raw Edge Y Neck Button Front Shirt, $10 (was $60) at ShopHQ The Christopher & Banks Raw Edge Y Neck Button Front Shirt.

Courtesy of ShopHQ

The top comes in four vibrant colorways: orange, green, blue, and fuchsia, and ranges in size to fit a variety of body types, from small to 3X and petite small to petite XL. With a deal this good, some of the size/color combos have already sold out, so don’t wait to grab one. We’re not surprised, since its lightweight 100% cotton gauze fabric works well for every season.

Use Code FREERETURN on Shop HQ to unlock $5 off shipping for a limited time.

The top has a relaxed silhouette complemented by a flattering Y-neck split neckline and a button-front design that creates an elongated look. Seam detailing throughout the shirt adds subtle texture, and the raw-edge finishes give the top a boho-inspired vibe. The shirt measures 26 inches long in small through XL, 25 inches long in petite small through petite XL, and 28 inches long in 1X-3X, making it easy to wear tucked, untucked, or layered.

Related: This Stylish Denim Jacket Will Go With Everything, and It’s On Sale for $30

Part of what makes the top so versatile is how easy it is to style. The breathable cotton gauze construction keeps it feeling airy so you’ll stay cool in the spring and summer, and the slightly relaxed fit makes it comfortable enough to wear every day. Pair it with denim or white jeans, or casual shorts and sandals for a casual daytime look. Or, wear it unbuttoned with a fitted tank or camisole underneath to switch things up. It’s also easy to clean. Just put it in the washing machine on a gentle cycle and tumble dry low. 

Shop More Deals

• Christopher & Banks Drawstring Waist Short Sleeve Shirt, $9,(was $45) at ShopHQ
• Christopher & Banks Relaxed Restyled Ribbed Detail Dolman 3/4 Sleeve Top $9 (was $45) at ShopHQ
• Christopher & Banks Wide Trim Perfect Tank, $4 (was $21) at ShopHQ

This classic button-up shirt is the perfect staple for your spring wardrobe in any color. Grab one or three while they’re just $10! Keep in mind that this is a clearance item, so it is final sale.

Don’t miss future deals! Sign up for Parade Picks to receive our commerce team’s curated selection of discounts and sales, twice a week.

While most of Prime Video’s subscribers are inevitably priming for The Boys’ Season 5 finale, the rest of them are hopefully catching up with another group of fellas. Namely, Smalls, Ham, Benny the Jet, Yeah-Yeah, and the rest of The Sandlot crew. 

Released in the spring of 1993, the somewhat-autobiographical film slid into theaters and has remained a nostalgic mainstay for generations of ’80s and ’90s kids ever since. Case in point: The film is firmly planted in the Amazon platform’s Top 10, according to FlixPatrol. 

🎬 SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬

View this post on Instagram

For days, David Mickey Evans’ film has shared the ranking list with some new cinema heavyweights, including the Colleen Hoover adaptation Regretting You, Bart Layton’s fun thriller Crime 101, and Edgar Wright’s remake of The Running Man. That’s some stiff competition for the little flick that could. Of course, it’s nothing these boys from the mean, well, suburban streets of L.A.’s San Fernando Valley can’t handle. As long as The Beast stays leashed.

Set in the summer of 1962, the film unfolds through the eyes of the new kid in town, Scotty Smalls, a scrawny baseball-clueless outsider who more than lives up to his name. But when he falls in with the neighborhood sandlot crew, he stumbles into the biggest and most unforgettable adventure of his life. 

In addition to blissfully capturing the sights and scenery of childhood, friendship, and America's favorite pastime, the film has a stellar soundtrack for the ages. Featuring a mix of ’50s and ’60s rock ‘n’ roll hits, with some R&B and Doo Wop tracks, including “This Magic Moment” by The Drifters, “Green Onions” by Booker T. & the M.G.’s, and “Tequila” by The Champs, the sound part of the equation is just as timeless as the story itself. 

According to Roger Ebert, who said The Sandlot is like a summer version of A Christmas Story,  the film “seduces with its memories of what really matters when you are 12.” And he is so right on. Grossing $33 million worldwide on an estimated $7 million budget, the film was a hit, but it became even more of a beloved cult classic through the years. Every time we queue up this classic, it’s like the best summer of our heyday never ended. 

The Sandlot is streaming on Prime Video.

Related: 1961 Island Classic Behind One of Music’s Greatest Love Ballads Ranked Among Best Rock Movies

Alexa Havins Bruening brought Lulu Spencer back to the cast of General Hospital in November 2024. Now, 17 months later, the actress is opening up about who she sees as her character's “end game.”

Bruening spoke with Soap Opera Digest about her experience returning to ABC Daytime, having formerly appeared on All My Children as Babe Carey from 2001 to 2007.

During the conversation, the subject of Lulu’s love life came up, as the character appears to be falling for her best friend's recently back-from-the-dead husband, Nathan West (Ryan Paevey), who is really Nathan’s evil twin brother, Cassius Faison.

But despite the storyline's current direction, Bruening shared that she always believed Lulu’s ex-husband, Dante Falconeri (Dominic Zamprogna), was her true love. “I assumed that them getting back together was kind of the end game,” she explained to the outlet.

The actress added that, despite some of the more complicated storylines she has had thus far, she always tries to play into the connection Lulu and Dante share when they interact, believing that is the ultimate “goal” and finish line for her character.

🎬 SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬

As the daughter of General Hospital super-couple Luke (Anthony Geary) and Laura (Genie Francis), Lulu’s life has been complicated from birth, as she developed aplastic anemia as a child, needing a bone marrow transplant from her brother, Nikolas Cassadine, to survive.

In later years, the character has found herself kidnapped multiple times, been cryogenically frozen and had her eggs harvested by her father's arch enemy, Stavros Cassadine, had her children kidnapped, and was rendered comatose following a traumatic brain injury, amongst many other stories.

Lulu has had many romances over the years, from her affair with Dillon Quartermaine to falling in love with Jonny Zacchara, but it was her relationship with Dante that defied the odds and proved popular with fans.

The pairing began in 2011 with Julie Marie Berman in the role; it continued in 2013 with Emme Rlyan, and the pair have remained in each other's orbit to this day.

Fans will have to stay tuned to see if Lulu and Dante are endgame or if the pair will actually find love again with someone else.

General Hospital airs weekdays on ABC and episodes stream weeknights on Hulu.

Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

If having overnight guests means turning your main couch into a makeshift bed, Walmart has a better backup plan on sale right now. The Zafly Folding Sofa Bed is currently marked down as low as $220 (originally $370) in the black colorway. It also comes in four additional hues, including gray, green, orange, and pink, all listed at around $230. 

It measures 82 inches wide by 39 inches deep by 26 inches high, and it weighs 90 pounds. It features a modern floor sofa shape with an iron frame, 100% corduroy upholstery, high-density sponge filling, and removable guardrails. No assembly is required — it folds from a floor sofa into a chaise lounge or bed, so it can stay out as regular seating too.

Zafly Folding Sofa Bed, From $220 (was $370) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

A folding sofa bed is a super practical fix when you don’t have a guest room, or when the “guest room” is also your office, storage area, laundry pile zone, and everything else. This one could work in a living room, an apartment, a finished basement, a playroom, or a spare room. It also gives people a place to stretch out for movie nights without permanently taking over your space.

“This is a really nice, very large, very sturdy, and thick cushioned futon bed,” one shopper wrote. Another said, “It's the perfect sturdiness and cushioning at the same time. Perfect couch for the family.” Others called it “very comfortable” and “soft.”

Related: Target Is Selling a 'Comfortable' $128 Foldable Sofa Bed That’s Great for Small Spaces

Since it’s foldable, you don’t have to worry too much about it matching the rest of your decor perfectly — but if you are keeping styling in mind, the black color is the most versatile option. The gray style would fit well in a lighter room, while the green and orange are more playful. The pink option would work in a bedroom, reading corner, office, or dorm-style setup, and you could even add a throw blanket and a few pillows to make it look more like a lounge spot.

Shop More Deals

• Idealsoul Oversized Chaise Lounge Chair, From $216 (was $350) at Walmart
• Zafly Full Size Convertible Sofa Bed, $150 (was $330) at Walmart
• Lofka Convertible Sofa Chair Bed, $140 (was $250) at Walmart

If you need something that can handle guests, lounging, and everyday use, the Zafly Folding Sofa Bed is worth considering. The corduroy fabric, foldable shape, and convertible design make it a practical pick for rooms with limited space, especially if your backup sleeping setup still involves an air mattress or the main couch. Be sure to get yours now while it’s still on sale at Walmart. 

Don’t miss future deals! Sign up for Parade Picks to receive our commerce team’s curated selection of discounts and sales twice a week.

Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

There are seemingly infinite types of celebrity projects: wine labels, clothing lines and—increasingly—audiobook narration. Though there are still certainly many professional audiobook narrators working (and occasionally becoming celebrities in their own right), it's not uncommon to see a famous actor's name attached to a book project—even if it's not in a more traditional format like the celebrity's own memoir. With so many options to choose from, Parade asked seven librarians for the 27 best celebrity-narrated audiobooks worth checking out. And there's something for every reader—from those who love engaging memoirs to readers looking to stay on top of the trending fiction lists.

If you've been curious about the uptick in celebrities narrating books, a lot of it comes down to publicity.

"The main thing a celebrity can do for a book, aside from being excellent at acting and reading the text, is attention," says Diana Platt, the virtual resources librarian at the Kansas City Public Library. "When a celebrity attaches their name, it may bring attention to a work from people who might otherwise have skipped it."

But the best audiobooks read by celebrities aren't just the ones that make a big sales splash; they're the ones with performances so engaging that you want to tune in and stick around.

"A good narrator is someone who can not only read well but also imbue the story with the personality behind the words," Platt states. These 27 audiobooks achieve that.

Related: 11 Best Audiobooks on Spotify, According to Librarians

What Makes for a Good Audiobook Narrator?

There's a lot that goes into being a good audiobook narrator beyond just being able to voice the words on the page. Rose Waldman, library supervisor at the Menlo Park Public Library, says that she looks for "a voice that is pleasant to listen to," as well as someone who's "a good fit for the story being told," especially if the characters have accents or come from a specific background.

"The best audiobook narrators do that job full-time," she adds, noting that it takes "a sophisticated enough understanding of spelling, punctuation and pronunciation that they can accurately interpret the author's intent."

Lucy Donnelly, the readers' services librarian at the Kansas City Public Library, adds that a good narrator is "able to create an immersive listening experience."

"I love when I am listening to a solo-narrated book and forget that one voice actor is crafting each unique character," she shares.

An increasingly popular category of audiobook narrators is celebrity performers.

"There are basically two types of [celebrities] who end up narrating audiobooks: actors... and the people who write the books," says Waldman. She adds that the latter category encompasses most celebrity memoirs and is particularly successful when the author is also a celebrity performer and "already well-versed in performing the written word."

"I personally love a self-narrated memoir and have listened to several celebrity ones that were very engaging," says Donnelly. She adds that it gets slightly trickier for fiction. "The challenge for a celebrity is for them not to be 'insert celebrity's name' reading a book; the focus should be on the book and not the celebrity who is narrating," she tells Parade.

She adds that "actors are generally fantastic," and celebrities with podcast or journalism experience, aka "crafting stories in a variety of fashions," can also be successful narrators.

Related: Bestselling Author’s Novel Ranked Among ‘Best Audiobooks’ of All Time

27 Best Audiobooks Narrated by Celebrities, According to Librarians1. 'The Dutch House' by Ann Patchett, narrated by Tom Hanks

Amazon

As Platt describes, this book follows "a brother and sister... exiled from their beloved family home after the death of their father." She adds of the narration, "Tom Hanks has such a distinctive, identifiable voice, but he simply disappears into the role of narrator here, a vessel for a beautiful novel."

This book was mentioned by several of the librarians Parade spoke with, including Marisa Bateman, children's librarian at the DC Public Library. She adds that the high praise for Hanks’ narration is "rightly so" deserved.

2. 'The Testaments' by Margaret Atwood, narrated by Ann Dowd, Bryce Dallas Howard and Mae Whitman

Amazon

Now a Hulu series, this sequel to The Handmaid's Tale is narrated by several stars—including Ann Dowd, who reprises her role of Aunt Lydia in the show as well.

"These three powerful female performers bring an authenticity to The Testaments that made it hard to stop listening," says Donnelly.

Platt agrees, adding, "Howard and Whitman are also excellent, but Dowd really is Aunt Lydia, now and forever."

3. 'Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe' by Benjamin Alire Sáenz, narrated by Lin-Manuel Miranda

Amazon

A queer coming-of-age story about two Mexican-American teens, this book was recommended by two of the librarians Parade spoke with. Waldman praises Lin-Manuel Miranda for "[tapping] into the bittersweet hopefulness of this book so beautifully."

4. 'I’m Glad My Mom Died' written and narrated by Jennette McCurdy

Amazon

"Jennette McCurdy narrates the abusive way she was raised by her emotionally volatile mother in a deadpan narration style," says Jenny Zbrizher, the senior adult services librarian at Maplewood Memorial Library. She adds that the Nickelodeon star's narration has a degree of emotional removal that seems "necessary in order to overcome the complicated feelings she was forced to unpack in the aftermath of her mother’s death."

This memoir was also recommended by Amanda Epperson, the adult services librarian at the DC Public Library.

"Jennette McCurdy has such a unique voice, and reading her story in her voice is moving and incredibly powerful in how it forms a connection between you as the reader and her as a human being," she says.

5. 'As You Wish' written and narrated by Cary Elwes

Amazon

The Princess Bride star Cary Elwes narrates this book that delves into the behind-the-scenes of making the film.

"Come for the on-set stories, stay for the guest appearances by friends from the film," says Jessica Pryde, the adult fiction selector in the Pima County Public Library's collection development office.

6. 'Margo’s Got Money Troubles' by Rufi Thorpe, narrated by Elle Fanning

Amazon

This fiction book is about a college dropout who subsidizes her new life as a single mom through OnlyFans, and it's recently been made into an AppleTV show. The audio version comes recommended by Zbrizher, who appreciates the rare synergy of Elle Fanning playing Margo in the show and also narrating the book.

Related: 11 Books Like ‘Margo’s Got Money Troubles,’ According to Librarians

7. 'Tom Lake' by Ann Patchett, narrated by Meryl Streep

Amazon

Another Patchett book to make the list is the COVID-era novel, Tom Lake. As the mother, Lara, tells her daughters about a youthful romance she had with a now-famous actor, her children are able to see their mom in a new light.

"Meryl Streep nails the voice of middle-aged Lara," says Zbrizher.

8. 'Finding Me: A Memoir' written and narrated by Viola Davis

Amazon

"[Actress] Viola Davis has an incredible voice, and she uses it to great effect to tell her highly personal, wrenching story about her origins growing up in poverty and journey to finding herself as an individual," says Zbrizher. She adds that "listening to the audiobook is the best way to experience this story."

Related: 13 Best Audiobooks Narrated by Julia Whelan, According to Librarians

9. 'Lincoln in the Bardo' by George Saunders, narrated by Nick Offerman, David Sedaris and more

Amazon

This ghost-filled historical fiction novel spins a tale about Abraham Lincoln's grief following the death of his son. The narration is led by Nick Offerman and David Sedaris, who are joined by an all-star cast of 166 narrators—including Julianne Moore, Susan Sarandon, Lena Dunham, Rainn Wilson, Ben Stiller and more.

Zbrizher calls it "an audiobook gateway into George Saunders' work, for those who may otherwise be intimidated by it."

10. 'The Third Gilmore Girl: A Memoir' written and narrated by Kelly Bishop

Amazon

For Gilmore Girls fans, this memoir takes you back through Kelly Bishop's life—including her pivotal Broadway days—long before she landed the role of Emily Gilmore.

"She is wise and funny and self-assured and a pleasure to spend time with," Zbrizher says of the audiobook, which Bishop narrates.

11. 'Catch and Kill: Lies, Spies and a Conspiracy to Protect Predators' written and narrated by Ronan Farrow

Amazon

In this nonfiction book, Mia Farrow and Woody Allen's son Ronan Farrow powerfully reports on the systemic abuse in Hollywood and beyond. He narrates the audiobook as well, with Waldman praising his "intellect and determination... with the Hollywood pedigree and dramatic flair to narrate his own book with aplomb."

12. 'The Woman in Me' by Britney Spears, narrated by Michelle Williams

Amazon

Britney Spears' long-awaited memoir was not read by the author herself, but instead by actress Michelle Williams. Waldman says it's a great "example of a star actor using her skillset to not just read, but to embody."

13. 'How To Be Perfect: The Correct Answer to Every Moral Question' by Michael Schur, narrated by Michael Schur and the cast of The Good Place

Amazon

"This is a great book, regardless of your interest in [or] knowledge of the television show that inspired it," says Waldman.

Penned by The Good Placecreator Michael Schur and narrated by the cast—including Kristen Bell, D'arcy Carden and Ted Danson, to name a few—the humorous philosophy book makes readers ponder what it means to be good and how to approach ethical dilemmas, much like the characters in the show had to.

14. 'Beloved' written and narratedby Toni Morrison

Amazon

"[Toni] Morrison does not shy away from challenging subjects, and Beloved has some particularly harrowing aspects—slavery and its repercussions—that make it a difficult, but important read," says Waldman. She adds that she recommends the audio version "because Morrison's narration carries the [reader] along like a patient but persistent friend saying, 'You must not look away from this.'"

15. 'City of Thieves' by David Benioff, narrated by Ron Perlman

Amazon

Written by Game of Thrones showrunner David Benioff, City of Thieves is a World War II novel. It chronicles two prisoners' desperate search for supplies to make a wedding cake for a Soviet colonel in hopes of being pardoned. Platt praised the audiobook for actor Ron Perlman's "wry" narration that "perfectly portrays the horrors and the humor of the war-torn Russian landscape."

16. 'The Millicent Quibb School of Etiquette for Young Ladies of Mad Science' written and narrated by Kate McKinnon

Amazon

This book series follows three oddball sisters who find refuge in a school for mad scientists, and it's both written and narrated by Saturday Night Live's Kate McKinnon. Donnelly calls her "a chameleon of an audiobook narrator, creating compelling and unique voices for each character" to keep listeners engaged the whole time.

17. 'Love, Loss and What We Ate: A Memoir' written and narrated by Padma Lakshmi

Amazon

Recommended by Bateman, this memoir from Top Chefhost Padma Lakshmi tells her life story through the lens of her favorite foods. Bateman says the story is so engaging, "you won’t want to stop listening."

18. 'Heartburn' by Nora Ephron, narrated by Meryl Streep

Amazon

Meryl Streep won an outstanding audiobook narration award in 2014 for her Heartburn performance. The audio version of the semi-autobiographical Nora Ephron book is recommended by Bateman. The story follows a cookbook writer and the end of her seemingly perfect marriage.

19. 'You Can’t Be Serious' written and narrated by Kal Penn

Amazon

Another Bateman recommendation is this memoir by comedian, actor and former White House aide Kal Penn.

"His infectious cadence and storytelling style will have you hooked as he takes you from his childhood, to Hollywood, to the Oval Office," Bateman says.

20. 'We’re Going to Need More Wine' written and narrated by Gabrielle Union

Amazon

"[Gabrielle Union's] series of autobiographical essays tells the story of her life and struggles infused with a lot of humor," says Bateman, adding that listening to it is sort of like having happy hour with a friend.

21. 'It' by Stephen King, narrated by Steven Weber

Amazon

This audiobook is nearly 45 hours long and read by actor and comedian Steven Weber.

"This classic [Stephen] King novel is worth the read, especially when you get Steven Weber to read it to you," says Epperson, who adds that "Weber delivers on each terrifying note" of the novel.

22. 'Becoming' written and narrated by Michelle Obama

Amazon

"Michelle delivers such a beautiful look into her life, and being able to listen to her actually tell it is a gift," says Epperson about the former First Lady's memoir.

23. 'The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy' Series by Douglas Adams, narrated by Stephen Fry and Martin Freeman

Amazon

When Earth is abruptly destroyed, Arthur Dent is thrust into the confusing universe, trying to navigate its absurdity without much of a plan. Epperson recommends the whole series, noting that books two through five are narrated by Martin Freeman, who adds "an extra layer of humor and wit with his delivery," she says.

Related: 50 Books Every Woman Over 50 Should Have on Her Bookshelf, According to Librarians

24. 'Music Is History' written and narrated by Questlove

Amazon

Told through the lens of one song per year, this book examines American history over the last 50 years.

"The excitement of every discovery and the incredulity at every wrong are both perfectly expressed by Questlove, who also has the perfect voice for narration," Pryde raves.

25. 'In Spite of Myself' written and narrated by Christopher Plummer

Amazon

This memoir from The Sound of Music actor Christopher Plummer is "a film gossip's dream," says Pryde, who adds, "Captain von Trapp sure did some things in his heyday."

26. 'Passing' by Nella Larsen, narrated by Tessa Thompson

Amazon

"Passing is an incredibly intense classic about life in segregated Harlem, but Tessa Thompson in your ear for a few hours makes the tragic beautiful," Pryde says of this historical fiction novel. It's about two light-skinned Black women in the 1920s, navigating class, culture and identity.

27. 'Harriet Tubman: Live in Concert' written and narrated by Bob the Drag Queen

Amazon

This historical fiction book imagines if Harriet Tubman decided to create a hip-hop album and an accompanying show in modern times. Pryde says the narration will make you "laugh so hard... at least when the horrors of the past and present aren’t making you cry. Either way, get ready for some intense emotions all around."

Up Next:

Related: How To Read All of Freida McFadden’s Books in Order

Sources:

• Jenny Zbrizher is the senior adult services librarian at Maplewood Memorial Library.
• Rose Waldman is the library supervisor at the Menlo Park Public Library.
• Lucy Donnelly is the Kansas City Public Library's readers' services librarian.
• Diana Platt is the virtual resources librarian at the Kansas City Public Library.
• Marisa Bateman is a children's librarian at the DC Public Library.
• Amanda Epperson is an adult services librarian at the DC Public Library.
• Jessica Pryde is the adult fiction selector in the Pima County Public Library's collection development office.

Tom Clancy’s novel Clear and Present Danger was only improved upon when it made the transition from page to screen.

The 1994 movie adaptation of Clancy’s 1989 political thriller is on The Atlantic’s list of “films better than the books they’re based on.”

“Clear and Present Danger the book is the size, shape and weight of a brick; [director] Phillip Noyce’s bureaucratic thriller slims Tom Clancy’s nearly 1,000 pages into a svelte 141 minutes,” Atlantic senior editor Evan McMurry noted. “The action takes place on the sea, in the jungle, at a drug lord’s mansion and in the streets of Bogotá—the latter setting the scene for an ambush sequence so memorable that the Jack Ryan series restaged it. But the film is most gripping in hallways and offices, culminating in Henry Czerny and Harrison Ford brandishing dueling memos at each other like light sabers.”

McMurry continued, “And although the character of Jack Ryan can sometimes blur into a cipher in Clancy’s novels, Ford embodies him with a Beltway Dad gravitas—never more so than when he announces to the lawbreaking president of the United States, ‘It is my duty to report this matter to the Senate Oversight Committee!’ Such a Boy Scout.”

🎬 SIGN UP for Parade's Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬

Released in August 1994, Clear and Present Danger is the second and final film in which Ford, now 83, portrayed Jack Ryan following 1992’s Patriot Games. As the newly appointed CIA acting deputy director in Clear and Present Danger, Ryan learns his colleagues are keeping him in the dark about a covert war against a drug cartel in Colombia, with the apparent approval of the president to conduct the mission.

In addition to Ford, the cast includes Willem Dafoe as John Clark, Anne Archer as Cathy Ryan and James Earl Jones as Admiral James Greer.

Clear and Present Danger earned critical acclaim and raked in more than $215 million at the global box office. The film was also nominated for best sound and best sound effects editing at the 1995 Oscars.  

Clancy’s novel was a hit upon its August 1989 publication too, debuting at No. 1 on the New York Times Best Seller list. Clear and Present Danger was the fourth Jack Ryan book written by Clancy. The author penned a total of 12 Jack Ryan novels solo between 1984 and 2003 before collaborating with other authors on five more books between 2010 and 2013.

After Clancy’s 2013 death, Mark Greaneytook over writing the character in four books from 2014 to 2016. Marc Cameron succeeded him with seven novels from 2017 to 2023, followed by Andrews and Wilson with three from 2024 to 2025. New Jack Ryan books by Ward Larsen and M.P. Woodward are set to be released later this year.  

Like the book series, the film and TV franchise lives on. Over the years, multiple actors have embodied the role of Jack Ryan, including Alec Baldwin in 1990’s The Hunt for Red October, Ben Affleck in 2002’s The Sum of All Fears, Chris Pine in 2014’s Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit and John Krasinski in the Jack Ryan TV series—which aired on Prime Video for four seasons from 2018 to 2023—and the upcoming movie Jack Ryan: Ghost War.  

Trader Joe's newest sweet treat is going viral for making people, well, go.

Fans are buying up the beloved grocery chain's new sugar-free Sweet and Sour Gummy Worms after learning that the tangy candies have a whopping 14 grams of dietary fiber (about half of the recommended daily value) per serving, which seems to be helping encourage regular bowel movements.

Related: Trader Joe’s Striped Mini Totes Are Officially Coming

"The new sour gummy worms at Trader Joe’s have 14g of fiber in every 8 pieces. That's an unholy amount of fiber in CANDY," one Threads user shared shortly after the new product was released in May 2026.

Others pointed out that the fiber content rivaled even intentional laxative gummies, with one writing, "8 gummies for 35 calories and 14g fiber is impressive! MiraFiber gummies are 30 calories for 4 and only 8g of fiber! Metamucil only has 5g per serving of 3 gummies."

Trader Joe's New Sweet and Sour Gummy Worms Go Viral

Trader Joe's

A third pointed out that other ingredients in the gummies could also motivate bathroom breaks, saying, "Between the dextrin and the erythritol, these will clean you out better than a colonoscopy prep."

According to Cleveland Clinic, erythritol can have a laxative effect "because your stomach can’t absorb sugar alcohols, which can cause them to linger in your intestines and ferment," while dextrin, an ingredient in Benefiber, can "serve as a prebiotic, providing nourishment to the gut microbiota," according to Tufts.

Now, fans are rushing to stores to try for themselves. "You just never know what will bring people together as a community," a Threads user joked. "Props to Trader Joe’s for uniting the Chronic IBS sufferers in an effort to stockpile these admittingly terrible tasting sour gummy tapeworms. May we all feel their power move in our lives/intestines."

Related: Trader Joe’s ‘Tasty’ New Korean Snack Has Fans ‘Obsessed’

While shoppers are giving the actual flavor of the gummies mixed reviews, TJ's describes the snack as "fruity flavored Worms [that] rely on a blend of allulose, organic erythritol, and monk fruit extract for their sweetness (and citric acid for their sour “zing”), creating a zero-grams-of-sugar-per-serving candy that still seriously satisfies a sweet tooth."

They also share that the product gets "their colors from fruit and veggie juices, and their fruity flavor from strawberry juice concentrate and natural flavors."

🎬 SIGN UP for Parade's Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬

The last decade has seen its fair share of incredible movie releases. Collider recently shared a list that showcased some of the best Hollywood has to offer since 2016. The March 2026 ranking of the "10 most perfect movies of the last 10 years" featured acclaimed recent films like 2019's Parasite, Moonlight from 2016, The Lighthouse released in 2019, and 2016's Arrival.

The publication named 2019's French romance Portrait of a Lady on Fire the top movie that came out following 2016. According to Collider, artist Marianne (Noémie Merlant) and Héloïse's (Adèle Haenel) painful and profound liaison makes for a compelling watch.

Portrait of a Lady on Fire has a score of 97 percent on Rotten Tomatoes and a 95 on Metacritic.

Noémie Merlant & Adèle Haenel Shared Their Thoughts About 'Portrait of a Lady on Fire' in a 2020 Joint Interview

In a 2020 interview with HeyUGuys, Merlant and Haenel shared their thoughts about starring in Portrait of a Lady on Fire. Merlant said she was immediately drawn to Céline Sciamma's script.

"I was like, "Oh, my God. This is an incredible love story, and in a vision, it tells it in a new way, and this way is something we've missed. It's [the] female gaze, and [the] female gaze is what? It's something we need more [of]. It's our story, our stories, and this film is all about that. It's all about love and all about art," said Merlant in the 2020 interview.

Merlant also shared that she knew the film was an important project before its production. Haenel agreed with her co-star about the importance of Portrait of a Lady on Fire, which was also directed by Sciamma.

"I was very excited to work on this film because I think, 'Okay, our goal is very high, so we have a lot of work ahead to actually fulfill it.' It's more like, 'Okay, now you go, you are on board, now you have a lot of responsibility because this could be great actually,'" said the actress.

Jack Douglas, the Grammy-winning producer behind such classic Aerosmith albums as the band’s 1975 breakthrough Toys in the Attic, as well as John Lennon’s chart-topping comeback album and titles by Cheap Trick, has died. He was 80.

The news was shared on the producer’s social media accounts on May 12. No cause of death was revealed.

🎬 SIGN UP for Parade's Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬

“A note from Jack’s family. He passed away peacefully on Monday night. As many of you who follow him know, he produced great music, and lived a colorful life. We know that he touched many of your lives; we would love to hear more about that in the comments. He will be missed. Jack Douglas (1945-2026),” reads the post.

Douglas began his career as a janitor at the legendary Record Plant studio in New York but soon worked his way up the ladder to become an engineer who worked on numerous projects by such artists as Miles Davis, the James Gang, Alice Cooper, the Who, and most notably, Lennon’s 1971 album Imagine, which led to a long-time working relationship with the former Beatle. He later produced Lennon’s comeback album with his wife Yoko Ono, Double Fantasy, which not only topped the album chart but won a Grammy for Album of the Year. He also worked on the Lennon posthumous release Milk and Honey.

After being encouraged to become a producer by Bob Ezrin, he produced Aerosmith’s second album, Get Your Wings (1974), Toys in the Attic (1975), Rocks (1976) and Draw the Line (1977). On the latter album, he also received a co-writing credit with the band’s members on the song “Kings and Queens.”

Tributes to the Legendary Producer

At least a few music industry insiders paid tribute to Douglas in posts on Instagram.

Former David Letterman band leader Paul Schaffer posted in the comments of Douglas’s Instagram account, “Here’s to the Liverpool Set, Jack’s first band from Saint Catherine’s Ontario who played Thunder Bay in 1968. I’ve been a fan since then. RIP.”

“Rest in peace record producer Jack Douglas. He produced some of the very best records that shaped careers. I once had a mindblowing chat with him about how he found Cheap Trick. Also his albums with Aerosmith made them the biggest American rock band of their era. Not to mention Album of the year Grammy with John Lennon on Double Fantasy. He was a very very nice man with a big heart. Thanks Jack for getting those songs on tape,” posted Alice in Chains member and former Ozzy Osbourne bassist Mike Inez.

Former MTV personality and current radio host Matt Pinfieldalso shared a tribute on Instagram. “We lost one of the greatest rock producers of all time last night the great @unkleremix Jack Douglas. His work with @aerosmith @cheaptrick and John Lennon was some of the greatest recordings in music history Jack and I became friends in the 1990s when he stopped me on the street on Broadway outside of MTV. I had already been his fan since I was a 12-year-old boy. He helped me through some difficult times which we both got to the other side of.. spent quite a bit of time together in the 90s I saw him shortly before my stroke It was always so great to see him-we actually went to see Joe Perry do a solo show at the Roxy together a few years back. We will miss this amazing man,” he wrote. “Thank you for the music Jack.”

In the spring of 1973, Elton John sat at a piano in the dining room of the Château d'Hérouville in Paris, composing music for his Goodbye Yellow Brick Road album while others ate breakfast. One of the songs he was writing — a quieter, more sincere and introspective departure from his signature theatrical rock hits — would later become one of his biggest songs ever.  

“Candle in the Wind,” a hidden gem on the rocker’s epic double album, was originally written as a tribute to legendary starlet Marilyn Monroe. Once described as “quite magical” by album engineer and musician David Hentschel, the classic rock ballad features Bernie Taupin’s lyrics elevated by John’s simple piano melody. But even though the song has Monroe in mind, Taupin has since explained that the song is really about any doomed icon.

@supercool70s

Candle In The Wind #eltonjohn #1973 Check out @Super Cool 80s #70s #70smusic #1970s #1970smusic #musica70s #musica #musicvideo #music #foryou #fy

♬ original sound - Super Cool 70s | 70s Music

“It’s not that I didn’t have a respect for her; it’s just that the song could just as easily have been about James Dean or Jim Morrison … Kurt Cobain. It’s a beauty frozen in time,” Taupin said, per the Elton John official website.

Released as a single in the U.K. in 1974, the track peaked at No. 11. But in 1997, “Candle in the Wind” became another kind of juggernaut entirely.

When Diana, Princess of Wales, was killed in a car wreck on August 31, 1997, the public were plunged into arguably the darkest time in British royal history. Paying tribute to his longtime friend, John reworked the lyrics of “Candle in the Wind” and performed his lament at the funeral for the People’s Princess. “Candle in the Wind 1997,” also known as, “Goodbye England’s Rose,” became a national anthem of mourning. 

Related: Elton John’s ‘Candle in the Wind’ Turned 52 Today — and Twice Changed Music History

In the U.S., “Candle in the Wind 1997” kicked off its record-breaking chart run, spending 14 weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming the longest-running song of the 20th century, according to Far Out magazine. Nearly three decades later, it remains the U.K.’s best-selling single of all time.

“It’s interesting because I very much did that remake literally in about five or ten minutes — no time at all,” Taupin shared, per American Songwriter. “And if you asked me to this day to recite the lyrics, I wouldn’t be able to remember a word of it. I did it very much as a favor to Elton because he was very close with Diana.”

Sales for “Candle in the Wind 1997” soared, with more than 33 million copies sold worldwide, making the single the second highest-selling physical single of all time behind Bing Crosby’s "White Christmas," according to Guinness World Records. Still, despite the track’s massive success, John refuses to play the Princess Diana version live, out of respect. 

“The only way I’ll ever sing it again is if the children [Princes William and Harry] ask me,” he told The Los Angeles Times. “Otherwise, it would be totally inappropriate.” He added, “To me, that’s a totally different song, but it may be that the [feelings] will be too closely connected. I think I’m just going to put it to one side now.”

Related: 1981 Iconic Ballad Became the Longest-Running No. 2 Hit in Rock History