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Trump Wants to Pause the Federal Gas Tax—Here's What That Could Mean for You at the Pump
If you've so much as driven past a gas station recently, chances are good that you've noticed just how high prices are soaring. Energy prices are on the rise worldwide due to the ongoing conflict in Iran, which has pushed prices to levels not seen in years.
That, combined with a rising cost of living, has many Americans feeling the pinch. Donald Trump has announced a potential counter to those costs, and his administration is proposing a pause on the federal gas tax. Keep reading to learn more about this tax and what pausing it could mean for you and the country.
President Trump Proposing Pausing Federal Gas TaxThe Washington Post reports that Trump has suggested pausing the federal gas tax in order to help ease the financial burdens his war with Iran has put on consumers. The decision would require congressional approval and could affect how much the average American pays at the pump.
As of the time of publication, the federal gas tax was 18.3 cents per gallon of gas and 24.3 cents per gallon of diesel. There is also a "leaking underground storage tank" fee that adds an additional penny to the price of fuel.
The Washington Post notes that the average cost of gas is currently $4.50. If Trump's gas tax pause passes, that means the average price could drop to around $4.30 a gallon.
Related: If You Want To Save Money, You Might Want To Start Carrying Cash
Trumps Federal Gas Tax Pause Needs ApprovalWhile savings could add up if the federal tax pause were passed, it wouldn't do much to change state gas taxes, which vary from state to state and average around 32.6 cents a gallon for gas and 34.8 cents for diesel. Additionally, the respite wouldn't be long-term and would only temporarily ease prices at the pump until the war in Iran comes to a close and the Strait of Hormuz is fully reopened.
There's also the fact that pausing the gas tax would require Congress to be on board with the change. The Washington Post reports that the last time they changed the gas tax was in 1934, and that wasn't a full pause but only a small price cut. As you can see, there's not much appetite for pausing this tax, especially given what the money is used for.
This money pays for highway maintenance and repairs, according to the Bipartisan Policy Center. If the tax is paused for five months, which is what one bill that has already been introduced into Congress suggests, the U.S. government could lose out on $17 billion in revenue, which amounts to about 46 percent of the proposed budget.
Related: Ground Beef Prices Surge Ahead of Summer Grilling Season
A Federal Gas Tax Pause May Not Be EnoughOf course, the real elephant in the room is the war in Iran itself. The ongoing conflict between the U.S., Israel, and Iran is what kicked off this current energy crisis. The longer it goes on, the more expensive it becomes to U.S. residents. Not just the cost of filling up at the pump, but also the amount of money we have to pay for goods and services.
As fuel prices continue to rise, companies will need to charge more for shipping and delivery to keep up. Not only that, but the shortage of fuel can also lead to production delays in industries that use crude oil to make products and run large-scale machines, which could result in price increases. In short, while a pause in the gas tax could help you save a few bucks when you fill up, it would do little to touch the other rising costs Americans are facing every day.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.
1960 Rock Classic, Banned by Some Radio Stations, Became a No. 1 Hit Twice
In 1960, not even being banned on certain radio stations and in U.S. schools interfered with Chubby Checker's ability to hit No. 1 two separate times with his smash cover of "The Twist."
Released in June 1960 as a single from his debut studio album, Twist with Chubby Checker, Checker's rendition of "The Twist" was an instant sensation. Following a lively performance on Dick Clark's American Bandstand, the track captivated young audiences after Checker popularized a new style of dancing. Fueled by this young demographic, sales skyrocketed and the song climbed up the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at No. 1 for one week in September.
Although the song fell out of the Hot 100 in December 1960, its journey was far from over. In early 1962, "The Twist" re-entered the charts after celebrities began engaging with the dance trend, capturing the attention of older audiences.
On January 13, 1962, the song hit No. 1 for a second time, holding the position for two consecutive weeks and marking the only time in history that a single song has reached No. 1 during two completely separate chart runs. Its dominance was reflected in its commercial success, selling over 15 million copies worldwide by 1965.
Despite its undeniable cultural impact, the song faced significant pushback. During its second chart run, "The Twist" was banned in some Catholic schools across the U.S. as leaders deemed the dance "lewd" and "un-Christian." Even Hank Ballard's original 1959 version faced resistance; Ballard reported that several TV and radio programs restricted the song due to its "suggestive" nature.
Chubby Checker does the Twist at the Crescendo, a night club on the Sunset Strip.Regardless of this localized pushback, the song was an enduring cultural phenomenon. In 2018, Billboard named it the all-time No. 1 single in the history of the Hot 100, a title it held until 2020. "The Twist" was also inducted into numerous Halls of Fame for it's impact, including the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, the Grammy Hall of Fame and the National Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame.
To this day, Checker's rendition of "The Twist" continues to resonate. On Spotify alone, the track has garnered over 112 million streams, attesting to its unique ability to captivate both older audiences and new generations alike.
Related: 1974 Soft Rock Classic, Originally Rejected by ’70s Legend, Became a No. 1 Hit
Walmart's 'Sleek' $30 Floor Lamp Adds 'Just the Right Amount of Light' to Small Spaces
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If you feel like your bedroom, entryway, or living space isn't quite complete, an elegant standing lamp might be just what you're looking for to help round out the space. Walmart's top-rated Bn-Link RGB Floor Lamp is now on sale for 50% off, and shoppers say it adds "just the right amount of light" to any space.
For a limited time, you can snag the popular color-changing LED floor lamp for just $30, down from $60. The modern accent piece is an ideal blend of function and style, offering hundreds of color options and over 30 scene settings to match your decor or set your preferred ambiance. It comes with a remote to effortlessly switch between colors and brightness levels.
Bn-Link RGB Floor Lamp, $30 (was $60) at Walmart Shop at WalmartThe lamp can also be controlled using the included foot pedal or via a mobile app, depending on your preference. If you want to go hands-free, you can connect it to Alexa or Google Assistant and use voice commands to switch between settings. It has a built-in timer that you can adjust to support your sleep and daily routine, and the lights can also be synchronized with music or gaming audio to match any mood or activity.
At 7.1 inches long, 7.1 inches wide, and 68.1 inches high, the tall, slim lamp is designed to fit easily into small spaces, including tight corners, compact bedrooms and living rooms, or narrow entryways. It only weighs 5 pounds, so it's easy to move from room to room, and assembly is hassle-free; simply connect the light pole to the base and plug it in to start brightening up your space.
Shoppers raved about the lamp's "sleek" design, calling it "unique," "modern," and versatile enough to complement just about any decor. One reviewer praised its compact build, noting that it's "great for small spaces." Another highlighted the simple setup, noting that it "works great and was super easy to assemble."
Shop More Deals- World Win Floor Lamp, $40 (was $46) at Walmart
- GupUp RGB Modern Floor Lamp, $37 (was $60) at Walmart
- Beatineon Outdoor String Lights, $37 (was $43) at Walmart
With its minimalist design, no-hassle assembly, and dozens of color-changing options to help set a cozy ambiance, this stunning LED floor lamp is sure to elevate any space. Grab one while it's still just $30 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.
Paul Walter Hauser Shares Dramatic Side-By-Side Weight Loss Photos: ‘Dude on the Left Hated Himself’
Actor Paul Walter Hauser is showing off his weight loss transformation. However, he's also highlighting the mental transformation he's been through.
Hauser, 39, scored his first big role in the 2017 film I, Tonya. Since then, his career has skyrocketed, portraying Richard Jewell in the 2019 Clint Eastwood film Richard Jewell and scoring a Golden Globe-winning role in the 2022 true-crime miniseries Black Bird. He's also tackled comedy roles, like The Naked Gun and Balls Up. But as Hauser explained in a new Instagram post, one of the most challenging tasks he's tackled is his own health.
In a new Instagram post, Hauser shared a side-by-side photo of himself revealing his dramatic weight loss. However, it was the caption that noted the change he's been through.
"The biggest difference between these 2 photos is not the weight loss. It’s the facial expression. Dude on the left hated himself. Dude on the right learned to love himself and make different choices. Never too late," he wrote in the caption.
View this post on Instagram What Made Paul Walter Hauser Lose Weight?In 2024, Hauser lost 70 pounds after ditching the "Cali sober lifestyle."
"Right now, I'm down to around 260 pounds. My clothes fit better and I feel undeniably stronger, but the most rewarding and fun part of this entire process has been being able to keep up with my children, and be the best father, the best husband, and the best actor I can be," he told Men's Health. "I'm planning to lose 40 to 50 pounds in the next year or so. Maybe that will open me up to different kinds of roles, and I won't have to keep specifically playing these big guys. I'm not turning back this time. My health is here to stay."
Clearly, he's achieved that. In his most recent red carpet photo from the Balls Up premiere last month, Hauser looked extremely svelte. Clearly, he's been putting in the work!
1965's Most Controversial Song Ranked in 'Top 10 Rock Songs Ever' Created a Music Legend
My friends and I often discuss which concert we would like to attend if we could go to any show in history. I have a lot of shows that come to mind, but perhaps my most common answer is Bob Dylan's 1966 show at the Free Trade Hall in England.
The show sits squarely at the end of one of the biggest musical controversies of all time, marking the moment when tensions exploded over and Dylan entered musical mythology. This is the show where a disgruntled fan shouted "Judas" as Dylan stood on stage with his Fender Telecaster and full electric band as opposed to his folk roots. In what I think is one of the coolest things a musician has ever done, Dylan turned to his band (later to become "The Band,") and said:
"Play it f***in loud."
What followed is probably the best live version of the legendary "Like a Rolling Stone," which has a much greater history of upsetting people than just this one moment. There's a long, complicated relationship the music world has shared with this song, which leaves it ranked as the third greatest rock song of all time.
'Like a Rolling Stone'Dylan rose to prominence as a folk singer soundtracking the civil rights movement of the early to mid 1960s. "The Freewheelin' Bob Dylan" was really his breakout album, featuring the song "Blowin' in the Wind," which is the song that defined this era of his career the best. Dylan was largely treated as a mouthpiece for his generation, with his young fanbase wanting him to represent the common man and the political strife of the era.
And for a few years, that's just what Dylan did. He did some very compelling political songwriting for the first few albums of his career, and he was a big part of the social movements of that era. Most notably, he performed at the March on Washington just before Dr. King would deliver his "I Have A Dream" speech.
This was the Dylan everyone knew, but he was getting sick of it. He had lost his self image, and there was an expectation on him to be this great political figure. It was a position that was too massive for a musician to fulfill. So for the first time in a long series of stylistic changes, Bob Dylan showed us why you never put expectations on him.
Related: Fans Are Rediscovering a Country Legend Counted Among Bob Dylan's 'Favorite Songwriters'
Dylan would decide to go full rockstar and switch to electric instruments. He debuted this new sound at the 1965 Newport Folk Festival, where he did a quick set of three songs before being booed off the stage. One of these new songs was was most emblematic of this stylistic shift: "Like A Rolling Stone."
The song would go on to be a massive popular success. it revolutionized popular songwriting, and cemented itself as maybe the most important song Dylan would ever write. He had transcended from a folk hero to a rock legend. Part of me wonders where Dylan would sit in the popular consciousness had he just suck to the political roots.
I think with his songwriting talent, he would stand the test of time regardless -- but Dylan proved maybe his most universal fact with this song: you can't pin him down. He would go on to further confound expectations for the rest of his career, making him one of the most enigmatic and beloved rock stars of all time.
Related: Bob Dylan, 83, Breaks Character at Concert Over Antics in Crowd
1989 Nostalgic Classic Film Ranked Among Best Rock Movies of All Time
Few movie moments capture romantic longing quite like John Cusack standing outside a window holding a boombox overhead while "In Your Eyes" plays.
That scene helped turn Say Anything… into one of the most beloved films of its era, and now the movie has earned another major honor after being ranked among the best rock movies of all time by Ultimate Classic Rock.
Directed by Cameron Crowe, the nostalgic 1989 film follows lovable underachiever Lloyd Dobler as he falls for ambitious valedictorian Diane Court, played by Ione Skye. While the romance became iconic, rock music played an equally important role in shaping the movie’s emotional identity.
Crowe had a rare knack for choosing songs that reflected not just the time and place of the film, but the inner emotional lives of his characters. In addition to Peter Gabriel’s "In Your Eyes," the film featured music from artists including Joe Satriani, Red Hot Chili Peppers and The Replacements.
That instinct for pairing music with storytelling came naturally to Crowe because long before he became a filmmaker, he built his career as a music journalist.
As a teenager, Crowe famously wrote for Rolling Stone, interviewing major rock stars while still in high school. His years covering musicians and touring with bands gave him a deep understanding of how music shapes identity, emotion and youth culture, something that became central to many of his films.
"I hate seeing journalism marginalized – you know, ‘Can we get rid of these journalists, they’re the enemy of the people?'" he told The Guardianin 2025. "No, they are the people, and if a young writer thinks for one second that journalism isn’t as important in our current environment, I'’'ll shove my book into their hand and I'll say, 'This is what journalism did for me. Journalism gave me a voice in the world.'"
That background is especially visible in Say Anything..., which was set in Seattle just before the alternative rock explosion of the 1990s. The movie's soundtrack feels authentic to its characters and era rather than simply functioning as background music.
The famous boombox scene in particular became one of the defining pop culture moments of the 1980s, helping introduce "In Your Eyes" to a wider audience and forever linking the song to the film. The scene was a stroke of genius that occurred to Crowe while waiting for his wife to get ready to go out one morning.
"I went back to the typewriter and just had an idea for that scene and wrote it out, because there was a song that I was loving at the time and I just thought, 'Wow, what if the song is what he uses to try and wrench his way back into her life, and it's the song that kind of taps on her shoulder a little bit? He's out there with the boom box,'" he told Entertainment Weekly in 2009. "And it felt really good."
More than 35 years later, Say Anything... remains a coming-of-age classic celebrated for its sincerity, emotional honesty and unforgettable use of music.
Its inclusion among the greatest rock movies of all time is a reminder that sometimes the right song can make a movie scene immortal.
Related: 1982 Classic Film, With Iconic '70s Soundtrack, Ranked Among Best Rock Movies of All Time
Queen Latifah Joins ‘The Voice’ as a Coach for Season 30
Queen Latifah is joining The Voice as a coach for season 30.
The legendary rapper, songwriter, and actress, 56, will make her coaching debut on the wildly popular singing competition series, NBC announced on May 12. The music icon will compete against Kelly Clarkson, Adam Levine, and newcomer Riley Green on the red chair panel.
In addition to her illustrious music career, which is known for hit songs like "Ladies First" and "U.N.I.T.Y," Latifah has a long history in television, with classic series like FOX’s Living Single, and recent hits like the CBS action drama The Equalizer, which ran from 2021 to 2025.
The Voice Contestants Will Get Some Rap and Hip Hop FlavorNBC's announcement of Queen Latifah's new gig states that her addition to the cast will allow contestants to work with a rap and hip-hop icon. However, it also notes that she's no slouch when it comes to other musical genres. Back in 2020, Latifah shared during an interview on The Kelly Clarkson Show that she's a big fan of country music. In fact, she cites Charlie Daniels' 1979 hit "The Devil Went Down to Georgia" as one of her favorite songs.
Check out the interview below:
"Really that was kind of a rap record, if you think about it!" Queen Latifah told Clarkson. "That was like a country rap record. I was like, 'Wait a minute. You know, this is dope.'" She also mentioned how a song by Florida Georgia Line felt "very hip hop" but it was still "very country," a blending of genres she loves.
"I think country music is really leaning into so many other genres now. I think it's pulling from a little hip hop, it's pulling from a little R&B, maybe," she continued.
When does The Voice Season 30 premiere?While the exact premiere date of season 3 has not yet been announced, NBC.com just shared that Queen Latifah's debut on The Voice Season 30 is expected to happen in September 2026. As always, new episodes of The Voice will air Mondays at 8/7c on NBC.
Related: 'The Voice' Adds Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Superstar as New Coach for Season 30
1976 Soft Rock Hit, Inspired by a Young Love Affair, Ranked Among 'Best Rock Songs of All Time'
Bob Seger became a hit artist early in his career with tracks like "Ramblin' Gamblin' Man," and by the mid-1970s, he restarted his career with the Silver Bullet Band. Using his experience as a teenager, Seger developed a coming-of-age soft rock track that solidified him as a "heartland" rocker and ranked among the best in the genre.
UltimateClassicRock ranked "Night Moves" as one of Seger's biggest rock hits in his career at No. 28, calling the track a "nostalgic" look back at the singer's life. The track landed at No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 charts when it was released in November 1976. "Night Moves" has quit the backstory, and Seger originally didn't think the track was worth recording.
According to MixOnline, producer Jack Richardson was with Seger when he began playing around with a song on his piano during the creation of the album. Richardson told the singer that he had a "good song there," though Seger "didn't feel the same way at the time." Other reports claim that Richardson wasn't originally sold on the track.
Issues ensued when the producer got a call from Capitol Records and Seger's manager about their dissatisfaction with the edited album tracks. Richardson later learned Seger never included "Night Moves" as part of the track list, and showed it to the higher-ups, who saw it as a hit track.
Related: This Banned 1957 Rock Hit Is Now Ranked Among the Greatest Songs Ever
Bob Seger was inspired by his teenage broken heart"Night Moves" became Seger's first hit single since 1969, and got its inspiration after watching the 1973 film American Graffiti. The movie was directed byGeorge Lucasand produced by Francis Ford Coppolaabout a group of teenagers and their adventures during one summer night in 1962.
The singer explained that he "came out of the theater thinking, ‘Hey, I’ve got a story to tell, too! Nobody has ever told about how it was to grow up in my neck of the woods.'"
He details having come up with the song based on his teenage years falling into the "faster crowd," having parties in a farmer's field, and meeting the "hot chicks." Seger recalls having his "first great love affair" after meeting a woman whose boyfriend was away in the military. She was a dark-haired Italian woman whom he went out with when he was 19. He got his heart broken when she married her military boyfriend when he returned. Seger later admitted that a majority of his early songs were written to impress that girl.
"Night Moves" took six months to write, with Seger having written the ending lyrics and descriptive imagery based on Kris Kristofferson's "Me and Bobby McGee." Its bridge was also inspired by Bruce Springsteen's "Jungeland," with the track's creation taking place in less than 10 sessions in the studio. The track was also included in Rolling Stone's Greatest Songs of All Time.
This Model Mommy is on the 2026 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Cover
Congrats to Nicole Williams English! The 38-year-old model is one of four fearless, fabulous women featured on the cover of the 2026 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue. Of course, this isn’t English’s first time gracing the magazine's pages.
The model/entrepreneur/online personality made her SI Swimsuit debut in 2023, earning the coveted ‘Rookie of the Year’ title. Not only did English shine in her first Sports Illustrated spread, but she was also pregnant at the time. The model mommy graced the pages again the following year; this time with her six-week-old newborn daughter, India Moon English.
Nicole shares India with her famous husband, NFL star Larry English. Which makes sense, given that the following February, English joined Brittany Mahomes, Christen Goff, Claire Kittle, Haley Cavinder, and Normani for an NFL WAGS SI Swimsuit issue.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MAY 18: Larry English (L) and Nicole Williams attend the 2023 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue launch at Hard Rock Hotel New York on May 18, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Gotham/FilmMagic) Getty Images Nicole Williams English Announces Her Pregnancy In the ‘Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue’Back in 2023, SI Swimsuiteditor in chief MJ Day said of the new mom/model, “We are honored that she chose us to celebrate her pregnancy journey—shooting for the issue seven months pregnant and then stepping back in front of the lens with six-week-old India Moon, her beautiful daughter and our youngest most precious model to date.” Day continued, “There’s power in sharing such an intimate life moment and we are beyond grateful to be part of that with Nicole.”
Following the ‘Rookie of the Year’ announcement, English shared her pregnancy journey with SI, revealing that she had started IVF treatments in 2021. While the first time around resulted in only one viable embryo, a second try was more successful. Nicole told SI, “The doctor called us and we got six healthy embryos. It was the happiest moment, I’ll never forget it.” She went on to candidly discuss the decision to announce her pregnancy (in 2023) in the pages of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue, “To be able to now be a rookie and to also surprise everybody with my pregnancy, it’s just a double whammy for me…It’s the two most unreal things I could have dreamed of.”
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - JANUARY 06: In this image released on January 07, 2026, (L-R) models Katie Austin, Jena Sims and Nicole Williams English attend the Sports Illustrated Sportsperson of the Year ceremony at XS nightclub at Encore Las Vegas on January 06, 2026 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)Now it looks like English is getting yet another chance to live out her SI dreams. And this time she’s on the cover. The model mom hit the beach in Montauk, New York, for her 2026 Swimsuit shoot. English showed off the absolutely amazing pics in a steamy video montage on Instagram. Fans and friends were quick to praise the photos. Fellow SI model Jena Sims wrote, “So deserving,” and Camille Kostek said, “Ahhh Nicole! Welcome to the cover club!”
Along with English, this year’s other SI cover models include actress Hilary Duff, actress/comedian Tiffany Haddish, and media personality Alix Earle.
Willie Nelson and Leon Russell’s Daughters Are Carrying On Their Fathers’ Musical Legacy Together
Music history comes full circle with a new collaboration between Amy Lee Nelson and Tina Rose Bridges, daughters of Willie Nelson and Leon Russell, as the country/Americana duo ALeeN ROSE. Their debut single, "They're There," featuring Willie Nelson, is a touching tribute to Amy Lee's brother, Billy Nelson, who passed away in 1991, and Tina Rose's father, who died in 2016.
Nelson and Bridges explained to PEOPLE their decision to form the band. Amy shared, "Tina Rose called me one evening during lockdown, and we talked about the feelings of loss after her dad's death. I told her that I often find myself saying 'they're there' when speaking of loved ones who have passed. I shared with her a song I had started writing after having dream visions of my brother, Billy."
Tina added, "I was honored that she [Amy Lee] invited me to contribute to it. My verse is about a distinct memory I have — of the first time my dad visited me in a dream after he died. It was so comforting, and I genuinely felt as if I got to spend some time with him."
Amy and Tina received additional help on "They're There" from Amy's 93-year-old father, Willie. According to PEOPLE, he wrote the song's bridge, played guitar, and lent his unmistakable vocals. "Now it's a full-on family song, as it should be," Amy said.
Amy and Tina's country/Americana duo, ALeeN ROSE, is significant for several reasons—especially because of their fathers' history as colleagues and friends. In 1979, Willie Nelson and Leon Russell released their chart-topping double album, One for the Road, which features their hit cover of "Heartbreak Hotel." Although One for the Road is their only joint album, the two continued to perform together on stage over the years.
News of ALeeN ROSE's "They're There" release comes soon after Willie Nelson's son, Lukas Nelson, performed a cover of Leon Russell's "A Song for You" at Cain's Ballroom in Oklahoma. The track's release also coincides with what would have been Billy Nelson's 68th birthday.
Here’s Exactly What Happens to Your Cholesterol When You Eat Walnuts
Chances are, you don’t spend much time thinking about your cholesterol. High cholesterol is something that happens over time without you even noticing it. This slow creep is different from breaking a bone or spraining a muscle, which requires more immediate attention. But that doesn’t mean that high cholesterol is something that should be ignored.
When left untreated, high cholesterol increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, heart attack and stroke. That’s why it’s important to get your cholesterol checked every few years and to know your numbers. Because here’s the good news about high cholesterol: It’s reversible through diet, lifestyle habits and medication.
Related: Here's Exactly What Happens to Your Cholesterol When You Eat Bananas
“Managing cholesterol through nutrition isn't about eating less. It's about eating smarter,” says Dr. Alan Goldberg, MD, a cardiologist at Rush University System for Health. He explains that this comes down to following four guidelines: focusing on high-fiber foods, minimizing consumption of foods high in saturated fats and eating foods high in unsaturated fats, limiting refined carbs and sugar and eating a primarily plant-based diet.
There’s one food in particular that hits on all four of those points: walnuts. “If you’re trying to improve your cholesterol, what you add to your diet matters just as much as what you cut out. And one simple habit stands out: Eating a daily handful of nuts—especially walnuts or almonds,” says Dr. John Higgins, MD, a cardiologist at UTHEalth Houston.
Jacky Parker Photography/Getty Images
How Eating Walnuts Impacts Cholesterol“As a cardiologist, I’m always looking for simple, sustainable changes patients can stick with. A small handful of walnuts or almonds each day is one of the easiest ways to support better cholesterol and overall heart health,” Dr. Higgins says.
He points to guidelines from the American Heart Association and American College of Cardiology, which state that eating nuts supports a heart-healthy lifestyle. Both cardiologists say that the reason why walnuts are beneficial for maintaining healthy cholesterol is because they contain several cholesterol-supporting nutrients, all packaged together.
“Walnuts are one of the most effective ‘functional foods’ you can add to your daily routine. They’re a complete nutritional package containing polyunsaturated fats, plant sterols, high fiber and antioxidants,” Dr. Goldberg tells Parade.
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Dr. Higgings explains that the unsaturated fats, fiber and antioxidants in walnuts all help lower inflammation, which prevents LDL cholesterol from being oxidized and trapped in artery walls. Scientific research backs up the connection between walnut consumption and lower cholesterol. In one study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 365 participants snacked on walnuts for between four and 24 months. When compared to people who didn’t snack on walnuts, the walnut snackers experienced a significant drop in cholesterol. Other studies had similar results.
Even though walnuts are a heart-healthy food, they are calorie-dense and eating them excessively can lead to weight gain, which isn’t good for cholesterol. Dr. Higgins recommends keeping walnut intake to an ounce a day (about one-fourth of a cup), which is enough to impact cholesterol without being excessively high in calories.
Related: Want To Lower Your Cholesterol? Cardiologists Say This Is the Best Diet To Follow
What To Pair Walnuts With for Extra Heart-Health BenefitsOne way to prevent overeating walnuts is to pair them with other heart-healthy foods. This is a great way to get even more benefits from your snack too. “Walnuts and almonds work best when they replace less healthy snacks—not when you just add them on top,” Dr. Higgins explains.
Both doctors say that one cholesterol-lowering breakfast that incorporates walnuts is oatmeal with the nuts mixed in. “The soluble fiber [in oatmeal] helps remove cholesterol from the body,” Dr. Higgins says.
Walnuts and berries are another heart-healthy combination, according to both doctors. “Walnuts have their own unique antioxidant profile, but pairing them with berries is like doubling down on protection,” Dr. Goldberg explains. They add that you could turn this pairing into a more substantial breakfast or snack by having them with Greek yogurt, which is rich in satiating protein.
Another nutritious pairing is walnuts and dark chocolate, a snack or dessert both cardiologists say supports cholesterol because dark chocolate is high in inflammation-lowering antioxidants. “Cocoa flavanols may modestly support blood pressure and endothelial function,” Dr. Higgins says.
Eating walnuts won’t cancel out a primarily nutrient-void diet, but it can be a helpful step in managing your cholesterol. “Walnuts and almonds aren’t magic. But if you consistently swap them in for less healthy snacks, they can meaningfully improve your cholesterol over time. It’s simple, practical and backed by strong science,” Dr. Higgins emphasizes.
Packed with nutrient density, it just may be the healthiest snack for your heart.
Up Next:
Related: These Are the 2 Best Cooking Oils for High Cholesterol, Cardiologists Say
Sources:- Hypercholesterolemia. StatPearls.
- Dr. Alan Goldberg, MD, cardiologist at Rush University System for Health.
- Dr. John Higgins, MD, cardiologist at UTHEalth Houston
- Blumenthal, R. S., Morris, P. B., Gaudino, M., et al. (2026). 2026 ACC/AHA/AACVPR/ABC/ACPM/ADA/AGS/APhA/ASPC/NLA/PCNA. Guideline on the Management of Dyslipidemia: A Report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Joint Committee on Clinical Practice Guidelines.JACC Journals.
- Banel, D. K. and Hu, F. B. (2009). Effects of walnut consumption on blood lipids and other cardiovascular risk factors: a meta-analysis and systematic review. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 90(1):56-63.
- Mastour Alshahrani, S., Mashat, R. M., Almutairi, D. (2022). The Effect of Walnut Intake on Lipids: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Nutrients. 14(21):4460.
'Chopped Castaways' Is Your New Reality TV Obsession
Food Network may have just created its next great competition franchise with Chopped Castaways, which premieres Tuesday, May 12 at 9 p.m. ET/PT.
After watching the premiere, it’s hard not to come away thinking this gloriously chaotic blend of Chopped, Survivor and live-fire cooking is going to become a full-fledged obsession for viewers.
Set on a remote Caribbean island, the series strands 12 chefs in an environment where culinary talent alone is not enough to survive. Contestants still face mystery basket ingredients and timed cooking rounds familiar to longtime Chopped fans, but now they also have to build kitchens, start fires, scavenge supplies and endure brutal weather conditions while doing it.
Related: ‘Chopped Castaways’ Season 1 Cast Includes ‘Top Chef,’ ‘Hell’s Kitchen’ Stars
The format is clever. Each episode features two rounds of “culinary combat.” In the premiere, the chefs are divided into Green and Blue teams, with the winning team in round one earning immunity from elimination. The losing team then sends its weakest chefs into “The Gauntlet,” a pressure-cooker elimination battle that feels genuinely intimidating, especially once a torrential Caribbean storm rolls in during the showdown.
View this post on InstagramThe premiere’s first challenge is less flashy than what appears to be coming later in the season. Watching chefs construct makeshift kitchens from driftwood, rope and scavenged materials is more practical than thrilling. Still, the sheer absurdity of seeing accomplished chefs hammer together cooking stations—using a meat tenderizer as a hammer, no less— while racing against a two-and-a-half-hour clock quickly becomes entertaining. And once the cooking begins, the show finds its groove.
Related: Guy Fieri Drops Surprise ‘Tournament of Champions’ Season 8 Announcement During TOC VII Finale
The ingredient baskets are wonderfully deranged in classic Chopped fashion. Goat leg, Hawaiian musubi, papaya and scorpions force contestants to think on the fly while cooking entirely over open flames. Some chefs adapt beautifully. Others spiral immediately. The contrast between one team's calm collaboration and the other team's communication breakdown gives the episode a surprisingly strong narrative engine.
The live-fire element adds real tension because viewers instantly understand how difficult this is. Even something as simple as cooking rice becomes dangerous under these conditions. Plus, there's no electricity, which means no refrigeration. In the previews for episode two, one chef openly jokes, "I would do unspeakable, nasty things for some butter," which honestly feels relatable by this point.
Related: Brooke Williamson Reveals ‘Mind-Screwing’ Reality of ‘Top Chef’ vs. Food Network
And judging by the season teaser featuring swimming races, fishing expeditions, blow-dart challenges and buried ingredient baskets, the chaos is only just beginning.
Chopped Castaways feels like the natural next evolution of the TV cooking competition. It keeps the frantic basket chaos and culinary creativity that made Chopped a longtime hit, then throws chefs into an environment where adaptability matters just as much as knife skills.
Between the survival challenges, live-fire cooking and genuinely unpredictable island conditions, the series already feels bigger, tougher and more immersive than almost anything else in Food Network’s competition lineup. And after just one episode, it’s easy to hope Chopped Castaways becomes a multi-season franchise.
Chopped Castaways airs Tuesday nights at 9 p.m. ET/PT on Food Network.
Related: Food Network Producer Reveals Two Chefs 'Were Not Pleasant' Behind the Scenes
4 Things Most People Regret Buying in Retirement, According to Experts
For many people, retirement means a whole new lease on life. Sometimes that translates into finally being able to pursue your passions, spend more time with your family, or see the world. However, some experts say that people in this stage of their life also experience something else after they retire: Buyer's remorse.
That's because making big purchases can hit differently in retirement, leaving many people feeling regretful about their spending. I spoke with two retirement pros to find out what some of the biggest retirement purchase regrets were, and what you can do if you're starting to worry about making a big purchase like these.
RVs, Campers, Second Homes, and Other Luxury ItemsMany people believe they will have a lot of free time on their hands when they retire, which often prompts them to make large purchases, including recreational vehicles and homes. However, Evan H. Farr, a Certified Elder Law Attorney and Retirement Planner with Farr Law Firm, P.C. says that people tend to regret these big buys because of the ongoing costs associated with them.
"These individuals underestimated the long-term carrying cost of these items, and overestimated how often they would be able to utilize them," Farr says, noting that retirement impacts the way we live and the way we spend money. "While some people assume they will travel all the time, have family visiting every weekend, or spend months traveling when they are retired, this rarely happens."
Related: The Secret To Boosting Your Social Security Check by 30 Percent
Gifts to Loved OnesTrent Von Ahsen, CFP® and Managing Partner at Cedar Point Capital Partners, says that becoming overly generous in retirement can also turn into a big regret. Whether that means making a large financial gift to your children once you retire, or helping them get ahead by co-signing for a loan, Von Ahsen says that retirees come to regret these things, especially when they are done "before the retiree has full clarity around their own retirement income plan."
Big Home ImprovementsYou would think that investing in your home would be a good thing for retirees, Farr notes that many seniors come to regret certain changes. "It is not uncommon for people to spend tens of thousands of dollars improving a home so that they can 'age in place,'" according to Farr. "However, after several years, some retirees find out that they need assisted living, memory care, or nursing home care."
Instead of having prepared for their changing needs, Farr says some retirees come to regret spending the money they would need for long-term care in this way.
Making the Wrong Investment PurchasesA big regret among retirees actually has a lot to do with how they prepare for retirement, according to Farr. "Some people regretfully purchased financial products they did not completely understand," he says. "High commission annuities, speculative investments or illiquid private placements were sold by sales persons promising safety or excessive earnings."
Farr says it can be very challenging to recover from costly financial errors in retirement, making these big purchases feel especially egregious.
Related: 3 Surprising Ways You Can Claim Social Security Before Retirement
How to Deal With Buyer's RemorseIf you identify with any of these situations, you're not alone. And, according to Von Ahsen, you're not out of luck. He says the first thing you should do when you start to regret a big purchase is to avoid the emotional side of things and instead ask yourself the following questions:
- What the purchase will cost you each year
- What you would recover if you sold it
- What does keeping it require us to give up
"Sometimes the right answer is to sell and move on," he says. "Other times, the better answer is to keep whatever 'it' is but adjust spending elsewhere. The key here is not letting pride or ego turn a regrettable purchase into a long-term financial anchor."
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.
Nestlé Toll House Releases New White Chip Chocolate Cookie Sandwiches
In the grand scheme of things, there's no shortage of great desserts to choose from when walking down a supermarket's frozen section.
From entire tubs of brand-name ice cream to more manageable pints by brands like Ben & Jerry's, shoppers have an absolutely array of products to pick when it comes to their next dessert.
Yet even then, Nestlé Toll House's latest release might very well take the cake (or rather the frozen dessert) for the most exciting product we've seen arrive in the grocery store's freezer section yet.
According to a new post on Instagram, several shoppers have stumbled upon a new dessert from Nestlé Toll House in the form of their new White Chip Chocolate Cookie Sandwiches.
As the name might suggest, the ice cream sandwich features a white chocolate-centric overhaul of the traditional chocolate chip ice cream sandwich, specifically reversing the recipe by incorporating a chocolate cookie base loaded with clusters of white chocolate chips.
Packed with a rich vanilla dairy filling, the resulting treat offers a memorably sweet take on the classic chocolate chip sandwich sandwich formula, appealing to fans of chocolate and white chocolate alike.
Judging from the response across social media, the new dessert is already proving a popular find among ordinary shoppers, many of whom were quick to voice their enthusiasm for the treat on Instagram.
"This is like a regular ice cream sandwich but leveled all the way up. The cookie alone looks elite," one shopper wrote. "If you see these... just grab them. Don't even think about it."
Right now, you can find the new Nestlé Toll House White Chip Chocolate Cookie Sandwiches in most major supermarkets. A four-count pack of the treat will likely set you back around $5.99.
As of yet, there's no word on whether the new treat is a limited-time offering or a permanent addition to Nestlé Toll House's lineup. With that being said, you might want to take shoppers' advice and grab them as soon as possible!
Rita Wilson Reveals What She Thinks Her 'Now and Then' Character Would Be Doing Now
Rita Wilson has revealed what she believes her Now and Then character, Chrissy DeWitt, would be doing today.
In a recent interview with PEOPLE magazine, the singer and actress believes Chrissy would be over her "pink phase" and "would've gone gray by now.”
Rita played the adult version of Chrissy in the 1995 coming-of-age film, with Ashleigh Aston Moore appearing as the character as a young girl. Chrissy was the neurotic but nurturing member of the friend group who loved pink and was more cautious about life than her peers. Rita added that she believes Chrissy would likely be divorced now, in the movie, she married Morton Williams.
Now and Then still resonates with audiences and is always gaining new fans, something Rita believes is because "no one had made a movie like that, that was this female coming-of-age, a female Stand by Me.”
"I love that that still resonates, and young women still see it. Now, moms are showing it to their daughters, and that was their movie when they were young,” the Sleepless in Seattle actor added.
What the actor particularly adores about Now and Then is "that it was about that female experience, those young girls, that tight friendship and [the fact that] they still stayed friends."
Now and Then signifies an important moment in Rita's career, as it was the first time she sang in public. "So that scene that you're talking about, on Now and Then, my character Chrissy sings to The Jackson Five's, ‘I'll Be There.' I had never sung anywhere like publicly ever… and Demi encouraged me to do it," Rita said earlier this year, per PEOPLE.
This moment over three decades ago encouraged Rita to pursue her music career, for which she has found great success. She still thanks Demi Moore for encouraging her to sing in front of others.
Sam’s Club Has a Wild New Chocolate Dessert for Under $8
There’s something special about a bao bun, no matter what it’s filled with. The soft, pillowy dough works with just about anything, and while savory versions are usually the most common, sweeter takes can be just as satisfying. Right now, Sam’s Club has a chocolate version that stands out from the usual bakery and snack lineup.
You can see the fluffy new bites up close in this May 10 TikTok from @samsclubfavorites:
@samsclubfavorites🍫 Member’s Mark Chocolate Bao Bites by FujlSan are a WILD find at Sam’s Club! Ten soft, fluffy chocolate bao buns each filled with rich chocolate custard inside… it’s like a dumpling met a dessert and the result is absolutely incredible! 🤤 ($7.33) #samsclub #samsclubfinds #bao
♬ original sound - Sam’s Club Favorites Sam’s Club’s Chocolate Bao Bites Are Filled With Rich Chocolate CustardThe Member’s Mark Chocolate Bao Bites by FujiSan come with 10 soft bao buns filled with rich chocolate custard for $7.33. Instead of feeling overly sweet or heavy, the dessert keeps that familiar light, airy texture that bao buns are known for, while adding a creamy chocolate center that feels a little more indulgent.
It also stands out because it’s unexpected. Bao is typically associated with savory fillings like pork or chicken. Still, sweet versions have become increasingly popular in Asian bakeries and dessert shops thanks to their soft texture and versatility. This version brings that same idea into an easy grab-and-go format at Sam’s Club.
Related: A New Seasonal Muffin Pack at Sam’s Club Brings a Fresh Mix of Flavors
Like traditional bao buns, these are probably best enjoyed warm. A quick 15 to 20 seconds in the microwave with a damp paper towel helps soften the dough and warm the chocolate custard filling inside without drying it out. They can also be steamed for a few minutes if you want an even softer texture closer to freshly made bao.
The lighter dough keeps the bites from feeling too rich, making these easy to enjoy after dinner or serve alongside coffee, tea, or even a weekend brunch spread. And since the pack comes with 10 bites, there’s enough to share without spending much more than the price of a coffee run.
Availability may vary by club, but if you're looking for something different from the usual cookies, brownies, and packaged desserts, this is one of the more unique sweet finds currently making the rounds at Sam’s Club.
Dollar General's Vintage-Style $3 Find Creates a Charming Garden Atmosphere
As warmer weather creeps in, we can finally ditch our winter layers and enjoy the sun on our backs. With flowers blooming, greenery coming back to life and endless outdoor activities to explore, there's something about the arrival of spring that inspires us all to get outside and make the most of the season.
That said, if you're looking for ways to bring a little springtime whimsy directly to your front or backyard, Dollar General has the perfect tools for the job. Case in point: a vintage-inspired Metal Cage Solar Hanging Light, a $3 pickup that adds loads of warmth and charm to any outdoor space. When it comes to seasonal refreshes worth spending money on, this one ranks high on the must-have list.
Metal Cage Solar Hanging Light, $3 at Dollar GeneralTruly a versatile pickup that works everywhere from a front or back porch to a patio, garden or lawn, Dollar General's Metal Cage Solar Hanging Light simply needs access to direct sunlight and a reliable place to hang. From there, this $3 find effortlessly illuminates your space with a touch of vintage charm, featuring a rustic metal cage construction wrapped around a classic Edison-style bulb.
Designed to create a warm, inviting ambiance without lifting a finger, all it takes is a few of these solar lights scattered throughout your space to create a beautiful, cinema-worthy setting you'll want to spend all night relaxing in. And thanks to its durable metal construction, you can rest assured it can withstand just about any weather condition, short of being swept away in a hurricane.
Related: Dollar General's Charming $1 Glass Essential Brings Cottagecore Charm to Any Room
How It WorksHarnessing the power of the sun, Dollar General's Metal Cage Solar Hanging Light charges throughout the day and automatically turns on at dusk, offering an eco-friendly, cost-effective approach to accent lighting. In addition, an integrated solar panel on top absorbs sunlight for optimal performance, resulting in a soft, warm glow that effortlessly enhances any outdoor space.
As for where it can hang, this is where you can get a little creative. Anything from tree branches and pergolas to shepherd's hooks and fences makes a suitable spot, though just about anywhere with sturdy support and direct access to sunlight will get the job done. Whether you're hosting a spring garden party, relaxing with family on the patio or simply adding a touch of warm light to an entryway walkway, this light proves itself to be both a versatile and stylish outdoor upgrade.
Don't sleep on this sleek and stylish Dollar General find, and while you're there, be sure to check out Dollar General's vibrant boho rug and beautiful embossed glass pitcher for even more home upgrade inspiration.
Related: Costco's 'Amazing' Summer Accessory Is 'So Cool,' Shoppers Are Scrambling to Get One
Nick Takes a Huge Risk With Kat on the Next ‘The Way Home’ (Exclusive)
Ponderers, we're at the midway point of the final season of The Way Home. Are you savoring each episode? This week's episode find Nick (Kerry James) taking a dip into the pond with Kat (Chyler Leigh) as they head to the past in search of Fern (Bianca Melchior).
Let's look into this week's episode, "Don't Cry Out Loud" and get a Parade exclusive sneak peek, too!
What Is The Way Home About?The family drama tells the story of three powerful women: Kat Landry (Chyler Leigh), Kat's teenage daughter, Alice (Sadie Laflamme-Snow) and Kat’s estranged mother Del (Andie MacDowell).
More than 20 years prior, life-changing events created a chasm in their family that time has yet to repair. Kat and Del still aren’t on speaking terms. Alice has never met her grandmother and is unaware of the reasons for their fractured family. When these three generations come together under one roof for the first time in more than two decades, a surprising discovery sets the trio on a path toward healing and helps them find their way back to each other.
Related: Everything to Know About the Final Season of The Way Home
What Happened in Last Week's Episode of The Way Home? Chyler Leigh Credit: ©2026 Hallmark MediaHallmark Media
In "We've Got Tonight," last week's episode of The Way Home, Nick (James) made a surprise return to Port Haven. Del hosted an old-fashioned “kitchen party,” but the presence of Nick’s charming biological father, Julian (Ted Atherton), had an unexpected effect on her relationship with Sam (Rob Stewart). Meanwhile, Alice (Laflamme-Snow) travels back in time and witnessed an eventful kitchen party with Young Del (Julia Tomasone), Young Colton (Jordan Doww) and their friends first-hand, and Jacob (Spencer MacPherson) wondered if he made the right decision by moving away from his family.
What Will Happen in The Way Home Episode 5? Blair Kincaid, Erik Knudsen, Kerry JamesHallmark Media
In "Don't Cry Out Loud," this week's brand new episode of The Way Home, an enthusiastic Nick joins Kat in her search for more information about Elliot’s (Williams) mother in 1925. Once there, the two realize they may be in over their heads with the nefarious Augie boys (Blair Kincaid, Erik Knudsen). Meanwhile, Alice and Elliot do their best to help Del as she recuperates from a recent injury that is pulling her deeper and deeper into memories of the past.
When Does Episode 4 of The Way Home Season 5 Premiere?"Don't Cry Out Loud" premieres Sunday, May 17 at 9 p.m. ET on Hallmark Channel and will be available to stream the next day on Hallmark+.
Where To Watch The Way HomeWant to catch up before the series finale? Seasons 1-3 of The Way Home are available to stream on Netflix. You can also watch through Frndly, Philo, or with a Hallmark+ subscription.
Related: Andie MacDowell, 67, Blows Everyone Away in All-Black Outfit With Full Gray Hair
Exclusive Sneak Peek of The Way Home Season 4, Episode 5Take a look at this Parade exclusive sneak peek of this week's brand new episode of The Way Home below:
PARADE Exclusive - The Way Home - Episode 4005 - Sneak Peek (0:58) Photos From The Way Home Episode 5Take a look at some select images from the next episode of The Way Home in the gallery below.
The Way Home - Episode 4005Hallmark Media Rob Stewart Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Peter StranksHallmark Media
Andie MacDowell Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Peter StranksHallmark Media
Rob Stewart, Andie MacDowell, Ted Atherton Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Peter StranksHallmark Media
Dan Jeannotte Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Peter StranksHallmark Media
Ted Atherton Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Peter StranksHallmark Media
Kerry James Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Peter StranksHallmark Media
Bianca Melchior Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Peter StranksHallmark Media
Chyler Leigh Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Peter StranksHallmark Media
Kerry James Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Peter StranksHallmark Media
Chyler Leigh Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Peter StranksHallmark Media
Sadie Laflamme-Snow Credit: ©2026 Hallmark MediaHallmark Media
Evan Williams, Sadie Laflamme-Snow Credit: ©2026 Hallmark MediaHallmark Media
Evan Williams Credit: ©2026 Hallmark MediaHallmark Media
Evan Williams Credit: ©2026 Hallmark MediaHallmark Media
Evan Williams Credit: ©2026 Hallmark MediaHallmark Media
Blair Kincaid, Erik Knudsen, Kerry JamesHallmark Media
Next, ‘Perfect Crown’: Who’s Trying to Kill the Grand Prince and Seong Huiju? Our Theories So Far
Harry Connick Jr. Shares Why His Carnegie Hall Debut Is A Tribute To His Late Mother
Harry Connick Jr.'s upcoming Carnegie Hall performance has been essentially in the works since he was 10 years old.
In an interview on Today on Monday, the singer shared how the dream of performing at the iconic venue was so special to his mom, that he tried to make it to the stage, at age 10, before she passed away.
"My mother used to say she could die happy knowing that I played at Carnegie Hall," he recalled, and shared that upon receiving the news of her ovarian cancer diagnosis, he called the theater when he was not even a teen and asked to play — only to reach the box office.
"So I told my mom, I said, 'Look, I tried but they told me no,' so she died three years later," he said. "I kept in the back of my mind that I wanted to play there, but I didn't want to go to Carnegie Hall unless it was a special occasion, so to this day I've never been in that concert hall.
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As the years went on, and Connick established himself as a prolific songwriter and performer, he scheduled his performance at the venue on what would have been his mother's 100th birthday: May 22, 2026.
"I'm not going to go in that building until about 7:30 that night," he said. "I've written essentially a symphony for her, it's this big 50-minute long composition, first movement was when she in New York, second movement was in North Africa where she met my dad, third movement was in New Orleans was when I was born."
"I've never been on that stage and then I'll perform this piece for her," he added of the special night.
Connick also announced in his morning show appearance that he's releasing a book, also dedicated to his mom, which will be out in September. He also shared that a documentary, capturing the process of his Carnegie Hall performance, directed by his daughter, will be out at the same time.
In April, the modern-day crooner took to social media announced that he’ll also be going on tour starting in July.
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A Best-Selling Romantasy Novel Helped Spark One Woman’s Major Life Decision
Over the last few years, literature has become cool again thanks to a reading renaissance fueled by social media. During the COVID-19 pandemic, BookTok quickly became one of TikTok's most popular trends, with keen readers recommending their favorite novels to countless viewers.
One book that skyrocketed in popularity was A Court of Thorns of Roses by Sarah J. Maas. Although it was originally published in 2015, BookTok introduced the novel to a brand new audience and solidified romantasy books — a mix of romance and fantasy — as one one of the most popular genres among young readers.
The book series, which is widely known as ACOTAR by readers, has sold over 13 million copies globally, and has a dedicated fanbase that live and breathe the five book collection.
Kaeli Dance, a choreographer from Utah, was one of millions to read the much-loved novels. And after reading the first ACOTAR book, she saw her relationship in a different light.
"Most of the time [with my boyfriend href="https://parade.com/968403/parade/questions-to-ask-a-guy/"] I felt really special, but there were random moments where I felt uncomfortable," the 27-year-old told Metro.co.uk. "I felt like something was off, but I couldn’t put it into words because everything on the outside was so perfect,"
Kaeli explained that, after reading about the book's central characters, Feyre and Tamlin, she began to realize that her relationship was toxic. "I started to realize that the person I was dating reminded me of the controlling relationship Feyre had with Tamlin,"
While she attempted to ignore the situation at first, it became impossible to ignore. Karli started to feel like author Maas wrote, saying that it was like the writer "saw her future."
@dancekaeFeyre taught me to fight for myself #acotar #Sarahjmaas #feyre #acotar6 #acotar7 I broke up with someone because of ACOTAR in 2023 @Call Her Daddy
♬ original sound - Kaeli DanceOne night, Kaeli had become sick, but she didn't want to wake her boyfriend up due to the fear of how he would react. "I realized that I did not trust my boyfriend to help me, in the ways that I specifically need help, when I am at my lowest," she noted.
Following this realization, she confided in her friends about her relationship, who encouraged her to break up with her now ex-boyfriend.
After sharing her breakup story on TikTok, fellow readers revealed that they had gone through a similar situation after reading the series.
"I just did the exact same, two and a half years and now I feel so free. We should never settle for less," one viewer, known by the handle @isabelmoffatt_, commented on Kaeli's video. "I spoke to him about what made me unhappy to see if he’d change and he didn’t. I slowly detached myself from it. I still love him, I’m just not in love."