Parade

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

It's not every day you find a shoe that checks every box for style, comfort, and affordability. Luckily, Adidas is offering a solution that does it all: the Adidas Cloudfoam Flex Slounge Shoes. At $33, these sneakers are a smart buy for anyone wanting to upgrade their sneaker collection without overspending. 

Originally priced at $65, these comfortable kicks are currently on sale for as low as $33 — a 45% discount you won't want to miss!

Curtesy of Adidas

The secret to their comfort is all in the details. The Cloudfoam Flex Slounge Shoes feature a plush Cloudfoam midsole and a wide fit, designed to flex right where your foot needs it for a truly soft, cushioned stride. The memory foam sockliner cradles your foot, giving you support and a lightweight feel, whether you're heading out for a city stroll or just running errands.

Getting out the door is easier than ever thanks to Adidas's innovative HandsFree step-in technology. The elastic laces and stretchy sock collar make slipping these on quick and simple — no fumbling, no fuss. The wide fit and raised medial support add to the relaxed feel, so they’re perfect for everyday wear, especially if you're on your feet often. Even people who work in the medical field have fallen in love with them. “I’m a nursing student and they are very comfortable,” a reviewer wrote.”

Related: Timothée Chalamet's Classic Adidas Zip-Up Hoodie Is the Definition of Sporty Style, and It's 40% Off Right Now

These shoes aren't just about comfort. They also bring style, with Adidas's iconic 3-Stripes and a subtle Sportswear logo on the tongue. Five neutral color options, including Cloud White, Heather Gray, and Core Black, help you find a pair that complements your wardrobe. The durable textile upper keeps them looking sharp through all your daily activities.

Shoppers love how versatile these sneakers are, with many saying they're perfect for everything from walks in the park to quick trips around town. The combination of flexible cushioning and effortless slip-on design makes them a standout for anyone who values both comfort and convenience.

Shoppers said these "light" and "incredibly comfortable" sneakers are "very flexible" and "fit great." Another raved, "I love the way they feel on my feet."

• Grand Court Shoes, $39 (were $70) at Adidas
• Runfalcon 5 Running Shoes, $52 (were $65) at Adidas
• VL Court 3.0 Shoes, $38 (were $75) at Adidas

Whether you're treating yourself or looking for a practical gift, now is a great time to grab a pair of these $33 Adidas Cloudfoam sneakers before they're gone. If you're looking for a pair of shoes that make every step feel like a breeze, Adidas's Cloudfoam Flex Slounge Shoes might be your next go-to pair of sneakers. 

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.

Before Zendaya was a global A-lister with roles in Dune, the MCU and The Odyssey, she almost played Aaliyah. The Drama actress was originally cast as the late singer in 2014 before she pulled out of the Lifetime original movie.

When Zendaya was cast in the biopic, Aaliyah: The Princess of R&B, she was best known for her role on Disney Channel's Shake It Up and her appearances in TV films like Frenemies and Zapped. The chance to play the R&B star looked like her ticket to being taken seriously as an actor and taking on a more grown up role.

Along with playing the singer who passed away in 2001, Zendaya was set to record four songs for the movie, but ultimately didn't believe the production was being completed to a high enough standard. Despite controversy over her being too light-skinned and not looking enough like Aaliyah, Zendaya says her exit was purely due to creative differences.

“The reason why I chose not to do the Aaliyah movie had nothing to do with the haters or people telling me that I couldn’t do it, I wasn’t talented enough, or I wasn’t black enough. It had absolutely nothing to do with that. The main reasons were that the production value wasn’t there, there were complications with the music rights, and I just felt like it wasn’t being handled delicately considering the situation," Zendaya said, per The Hollywood Reporter, in 2014.

At the BET Awards in 2014, Zendaya also admitted she had too much adoration for Aaliyah to make something that was beneath her worth. “Basically, I just felt that because I love her, and because I respect her so much as an artist, I don’t want to do anything that’s half or anything that’s less for her,” she told reporters on the red carpet, per Variety.

“I felt like some things with the production weren’t all the way there, the project wasn’t all the way there. If I’m going to do something for someone I care about so much, I have to do it the right way,” Zendaya added.

The family were also unhappy with the biopic, which was based on the book Aaliyah: Princess of R&B by former Time Magazine music editor Christopher Farley, and were hoping for more than a Lifetime film for the star.

Jomo Hankerson, Aaliyah’s cousin and president of her label Blackground Records, told the New York Daily Newsthat: “We want a major studio release along the lines of ‘What’s Love Got to Do with It,’ the Tina Turner movie."

“This needs A-list actors, A-list talent that can breathe life into what we think is a phenomenal story.” Although Jomo clarified that he had no issue with the casting and more that they felt the project was too understated.

Zendaya told The Hollywood Reporter that she tried to contact the family after being cast, but didn't feel they were receptive enough. “I tried my best to reach out to the family on my own, and I wrote a letter, but I was unable to do so,” she said. “Therefore, I felt not really morally OK with moving forward with the project.”

Aaliyah: The Princess of R&B was ultimately released in 2014 and starred Alexandra Shipp in the title role. Luckily, Zendaya leaving the controversial project proved to be a good career decision as the movie was poorly reviewed and she went on to have a huge career in Hollywood.

Mother’s Day was all snuggles with her babies for White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt. That is, until the mom-of-two posted a pic of a pricey present on her Instagram Stories. 

Leavitt welcomed daughter Viviana on May 1st. While fans of the Trump administration insider flocked to her Instagram announcement, showering the new mom with praise, one of her latest pics didn’t get the same level of applause. Her first Mother’s Day photo featured Leavitt cuddled in bed with her son Niko and newborn daughter. And yes, the sweet snapshot was pure preciousness. But then, hours later, she posted a few more images.

So, what was controversial about the Press Secretary’s holiday photos? While a second image of her holding little Vivi’s hand is, on the surface, absolutely adorable, some people had other thoughts. Leavitt flashes her enormous diamond ring, leading naysayers to comment on the over-the-top display (in light of the iffy economy and sky-high prices on…well, just about everything.) Even though it might seem like the sparkler stole the spotlight, another picture actually got more attention.

While the rest of us moms got new tumblers to sip on at soccer games and cheer practice or macaroni necklaces, Leavitt got Louis Vuitton. That’s right, her Instagram Stories slide also features a shot of the iconic ‘Imperial Saffron’ box emblazoned with the brand’s name. It also includes an elegantly handwritten note that reads, “Happy Mother’s Day! Niko & Vivi.” 

When news of the lavish gift broke, critics took to social media, unleashing a fiery backlash. One Redditor wrote, “It is tone-deaf and insensitive,” and another added, “Thought it was going to be an expensive EV, but it was just Louis Vuitton.”

Of course, Leavitt is hardly the first famous mom to get an over-the-top gift from her family. In 2025, Kim Kardashianshowed offbirthday presents from mom, Kris Jenner—a red crocodile leather Birkin Shoulder Bag and dark beige Kelly Cut clutch. And then there was a ‘welcome back to tennis’ gift from Alexis Ohanian to Serena Williams in 2018. The Reddit co-founder bought his wife not one, not two, not three, but four billboards. But none of those compares to the $20 million private jet that actor Tom Cruisegifted his then-fiancée, Katie Holmes, for their wedding.

Oh, wait, that’s not exactly the most over-the-top gift a celeb has given. Back in 2012, Beyoncé reportedly spent nearly $40 million on a Bombardier Challenger 850 private jet for her husband Jay-Z. Now that kind of makes LV seem like a bargain!

Americans can’t afford to live. At least, that’s the consensus among several CEOs whose businesses depend on a healthy economy. More Americans than ever are dipping into their savings just to make ends meet. 

Last week, in an interview with Bloomberg, Kraft Heinz CEO Steve Cahillane said, "They're literally running out of money at the end of the month.” He was describing lower-earning Americans, a group that has only grown larger in the past several years. 

McDonald's CEO Christopher Kempczinski and Whirlpool CEO Marc Bitzerhave noticed similar spending trends across their two very different industries. They see that more Americans are cutting back while also depleting funds in other accounts. 

Related: If You Want To Save Money, You Might Want To Start Carrying Cash

📣 Get top stories you care about in your inbox daily with Parade's newsletter 📣

It’s no secret that expenses have skyrocketed in the U.S. in recent months. As of April 30th, 2026, the war in Iran has cost American taxpayers $50 billion despite reports that it’s only cost $25 billion (still an astronomical number), with almost every household feeling the squeeze. 

While the federal government sets the poverty line at $15,960 for an individual, the actual “low-earner” definition is around $69,466 per person, based on the national median family income set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). This leaves a huge gap between who qualifies for assistance and who is actually struggling. 

Related: The Most Risky State For Your Retirement Savings

While prices are rising faster than wages, there are some things you can do to help lower your monthly bills and hopefully hold on to more of your savings. 

• Take public transportation or carpool
• Plan your meals for the week and only buy groceries based on your menu
• Utilize free buy, sell, trade groups in your area, or check out local swap meets
• Use apps like MeetUp or check your local library for free public events, classes, and more, rather than spending money going out
• Attend local “fix-it fairs” to get help fixing items or learn how to mend your own clothes rather than buying new ones
• Cancel subscriptions that you don’t use or don’t use often
• Get a library card and use apps like Libby and Hoopla for free books, audiobooks, TV shows, music, movies, and more
• Refinance large purchases like your car or mortgage or try to negotiate your rent down

Financial downturns in the economy don’t last forever, but making smart money moves now can help you weather the current storm. Utilizing your local community is one of the best ways to find the resources you need while also gaining a support system to see you through these hard times.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.

Olivia Newton-John's daughter Chloe Lattanzi took to Instagram on Mother's Day to commemorate the life of her iconic mother who died in 2022.

"Today is when it really hits," Lattanzi wrote of the holiday. "I feel you all around me, your love, your guidance, but I want to feel your physical arms around me. The arms that meant pure love and pure safety. There are as you said no adequate words for such a deep love. But I’ll try…:my heart overflows and breaks with a longing, to hold you as if you were my child."

The 40-year-old's post was complete with a compilation of videos and photos of the 'Grease' star, including a clip of Lattanzi's wedding where Newton-John spoke fondly of her daughter and husband-to-be, as well as various interviews of the "Physical" singer speaking about Lattanzi.

"You took care of so many people in your life mama, I wish I could have another lifetime with you, where all is focused on you!" Lattanzi continued. "We walked together a journey that is just ours. I will protect honor and uphold your legacy for as long as I draw breath."

In her tear-jerking post, Lattanzi, who is also a singer, let her mother know that she, herself, is happy.

"As I write those words I hear you also say 'be happy, shine Chloe energy,'" she said. "I am so happy mama! Healthy and manifesting the life I want, and that’s all you ever wanted."

Related: Olivia Newton-John's Daughter Chloe Lattanzi Breaks Down in Tears Talking About Her Late Mom

Lattanzi also took the time recognize her "incredible soul family members" who have supported her over the years and closed her post by acknowledging Newton-John's fans.

"Thank you for letting me share our memories with the fans you and I love so much, you are alive here! In me, in the hearts of your fan family, in the echoes of love you left everywhere," she wrote. "I love you completely my mommy."

Newton-John died after a long battle with breast cancer at 73 years old. Towards the end of her life, she was dedicated to helping others with the disease with the founding of the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Wellness & Research Centre in Australia in 2012 as well as the Olivia Newton-John Foundation Fund in 2020.

Newton-John shared Chloe with ex-husband Matt Lattanzi. The two were married from 1984-1995. She later married John Easterling in 2008.

One of the best things about shopping at Aldi is the famed Aldi Finds aisle. Chock full of seasonal essentials, home decor, toys, electronics and beyond, sometimes a simple trip to re-up on groceries turns into the discovery of something you didn't know you needed.

But if there's one thing you should always keep an eye out for with every visit, it's Aldi's growing collection of cookware staples. And as luck would have it, this week is set to deliver a new iteration of a fan-favorite find: the Crofton Two Burner Griddle. Hitting shelves in two styles (grill and flat top), this $15 pickup is a versatile tool every home cook should have on hand, earning its stripes on the stovetop, in the oven or directly over a fire.

🍳 SIGN UP to get delicious recipes, handy kitchen hacks & fun food news in our daily Pop Kitchen newsletter 🍳

Aldi

Aldi's newest $15 Two Burner Griddle ditches a previous reversible design in favor of a sleek, single-use model, offering both grill and flat top versions to serve your unique cooking needs. Shoppers can expect to find the grill versions in green and gray colorways, along with a griddle style in a luxurious cream. The grill version features raised ridges across the cooking surface, making it perfect for searing meats and roasting vegetables, while the flat top is ideal for pancakes, eggs, toasted bread and more.

Each griddle features a long-lasting porcelain enamel interior and exterior that promotes even heat distribution and retention, along with integrated handles on either end for easy transport from stovetop to oven or kitchen to table. And although Aldi hasn't listed the griddle's specs yet, past iterations measured roughly 17 inches by 10 inches and are generally oven-safe up to 482°F.

Related: Shoppers Are Upgrading Weekend Plans With Aldi's $15 Lounging Essential

Aldi

Two-burner griddles are designed exclusively with convenience in mind. Featuring slightly raised edges and ample cooking space that covers two burners at once, having a griddle on hand lets you whip up multiple ingredients at once without juggling separate pans. In other words, two-burner griddles are extremely practical, with benefits that include:

• Versatility: Use it on the stovetop, pop it in the oven, or take it outside for use on the grill or directly over a campfire. You can also cook a wide variety of meals, from hearty breakfasts to sizzling dinners and everything in between.
• Beginner-friendly: Two-burner griddles are incredibly user-friendly, serving as a spacious cooking surface that simplifies the cooking process while still delivering consistent results.
• Easy to travel with: A valuable camping essential, two-burner griddles are compact, easy to pack with your gear and perfect for whipping up meals outdoors at a moment's notice.

If you're interested in either griddle style, keep your eyes peeled starting on Wednesday, May 13, so you can snag one before everyone else has the same idea. Crofton's usually includes a two-year warranty and an affordable $15 price tag, making it a solid kitchen upgrade or gift for a loved one. 

And if you really like what you're seeing, don't miss out on Costco's gorgeous three-piece stoneware basket set or Dollar General's charming $1 spice jar.

Related: Costco’s ‘Beautiful’ $20 3-Piece Stoneware Set Is a Must-Have for Fruit and Veggie Storage

If you're fortunate, there's at least one person in your family who acts as the social glue, bringing everyone together. Whether they host casual cookouts, plan holiday gatherings, or remember everyone's birthdays, their loving presence makes each person feel seen, comforted, and valued. Rather than waiting for occasions to bring everyone together, they understand the importance of intentionally making time for loved ones through thoughtful care. According to expert numerologists and astrologers, certain birthdates stand out as the most likely to represent the heart of the family. Read on to find out if your birthday is one of them.

RELATED: 4 Birth Months Are the Heart of the Family

Check for your birth date. Disregard birth months.

People born on the 2nd of any month are ruled by the Moon, our celestial luminary of intuitive nurturing. These natural-born caretakers go above and beyond to ensure everyone's needs are met; they can't help themselves. With a keen awareness of subtle mood shifts and a big heart, they ooze compassion and love. Connecting with others fulfills their deep need to help. By creating a safe space for their family, they ensure their loved ones feel comfortable sharing their vulnerabilities and challenges. They bring people together through genuine care, rather than by expecting a surface-level social performance.

People born on the 9th may have a fiery attitude at times, but they truly have a heart of gold. Ruled by the warrior planetMars, which is associated with confidence and justice, they are passionate about ensuring that everyone's individuality is respected. They act as cheerleaders for their family, supporting each person's personal growth. While some may shy away from taking control, they take the initiative to plan adventures or simply gather their loved ones together. Their inspiring attitude makes others feel comfortable, allowing them to take the lead and leading to endless laughter and conversation.

NEXT: The 4 Birth Months With Strong Boundaries

Saturn, the planet of responsibility and tradition, influences those born on the 17th. These grounded individuals tend to build a strong foundation for their families to rely on. With unwavering commitment to those who matter most, they express love through acts of service, thoughtful planning, and by creating an environment where love feels emotionally secure and consistent. They often plan routines, rituals, or annual trips for the group to enjoy together. One thing is for certain: their long-term plans focus not only on improving their own lives but also on positively impacting the lives of those they care about.

RELATE?: Your Perfect Comfort Meal, Based on Birth Date

If you have a loved one born on the 24th, consider yourself lucky. This birth date is ruled by Venus, the planet of love, making connection their utmost priority. People are naturally drawn to their light, and warmth radiates from their aura. While many are quick to judge, these individuals understand the importance of being a safe space for others to let their emotional walls down. Their magnetism and diplomatic charm can be delightful, but their affections run deeper than superficial harmony. When they love, they give it their all. Family is a value they hold close to their heart.

UP NEXT:

Two brands steeped in nostalgia have come together to unveil a sweet new mash-up treat.

NERDS and Mother's Cookies are launching their Sweet & Tangy Frosted Cookies exclusively at Walmart stores this June. These limited-edition shortbread treats combine Mother's signature crunchy cookies with the tartness of NERDS Rainbow candy. This marks the first partnership between NERDS and Mother's Cookies, and for fans of both, the collaboration is a welcome delight.

"This is the kind of collaboration that gets your friends and family talking and reaching for the bag together," says Ferrero Senior Brand Manager Julia Witten. "When two beloved brands like these come together, the result is something wildly craveable and endlessly shareable."

NERDS Senior Brand Manager Jenny Chen adds, "NERDS is all about elevating the vibes. Swapping the classic Mother's sprinkles for crunchy and tangy NERDS is just another way that we're taking things to the next level. This sweet crossover is something fans have dreamed about, and we can't wait to bring it to shelves this summer."

Both brands are known for their distinct flavors and unique treats. NERDS' trademark sugar crystal candies debuted in the 1980s with their original Cherry & Orange and Grape & Strawberry flavors. Since then, numerous spinoff products—including Seasonal Nerds, Nerds Rope, and Nerds Gummy Clusters—have been released over the years.

Mother's Cookies began much earlier, in 1914, at a newspaper stand in California. Instantly recognizable for its pink and white frosted, rainbow-sprinkled cookies, Mother's has delighted kids and adults alike with Original Circus Animal Cookies, Sparkling Strawberry Mythical Creature Cookies, Splashing Summer Sidekick Cookies, and more.

Fans are encouraged to share their "first bites" of the NERDS x Mother's Cookies Sweet & Tangy Frosted Cookies on social media. Several lucky participants will have the chance to win a special Mother's Cookies x NERDS crossover mailer by commenting with #TangyTwist on Mother's Cookies' Instagram account.

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

At long last, it's finally almost barbecue season. Bring on the burgers, brats and skewers! Of course, if you don't have an outdoor space or room for a large grill, it's harder to enjoy the barbecue staples of summertime. Well, not anymore, thanks to this awesome 5-in-1 indoor grill available at Kohl's.

The Cuisinart Griddler is a game changer for small spaces thanks to its innovative, versatile and compact design. This nifty contraption offers five grilling options thanks to its reversible plates that can convert to a full grill, a full griddle, a half grill or a half griddle, a contact grill and a panini press. When fully opened, Cuisinart's Griddler offers up to 200 square inches of grilling space. Whether you're cooking for one or multiple people, the Griddler has you covered.

🍳 SIGN UP to get delicious recipes, handy kitchen hacks & fun food news in our daily Pop Kitchen newsletter 🍳

Kohl's

The plates feature a ceramic nonstick coating. What's more, this indoor grill has adjustable temperature controls. For example, you can adjust from "Warm" to "Sear" in the grill or panini modes or go from 200°F to 425°F in the griddle mode. It is also easy to operate thanks to its power on button and ready-to-cook indicator lights.

Related: Kohl's Is Selling a Vibrant 3-Piece Reversible Quilt Set That's a Beautiful Spring Refresh for Your Bedroom

Shoppers have given this indoor grill an average rating of 4.6 stars on Kohls.com, with 91 percent of reviewers saying they would recommend the appliance to others. Reviewers rate the indoor grill highly for its quality, durability, ease of use and value.

"Love this grill It is so easy to clean and you can put the grills into the dishwasher. Comes out really great. Had another grill that you could put in dishwasher. It got stained and was much harder to clean. I've made pork chops, steaks and grilled cheese. So easy. Worth the money!" raved one fan in a five-star review on Kohls.com.

"Great for grilling hamburgers, fish, pork chops, grilled cheese sandwiches and more. Heats up quickly and makes indoor grilling a breeze. Easy to clean and doesn't take up much space," said another happy shopper in a five-star review on Kohl's website.

You can pick up Cuisinart's Griddler at select Kohl's stores or on Kohls.com. It is currently on sale for $99.99.

Related: This Pretty Kohl's 3-Piece Comforter Set Adds So Much Retro Charm to Any Space

The alternative rock band, The Pixies, is credited with influencing the genre during the 1990s and inspiring hit bands like Nirvana, Weezer, and Radiohead. In 1988, the band released a rock track that didn't chart in the US, but gained pop culture status thanks to a 1999 hit film.

Rolling Stones ranked The Pixies' "Where Is My Mind" at No. 494 on their list of the Greatest Songs of All Time. They tagged the track as having stood out during the "Reagan-era" of bands that "formed part of the DNA of countless alternative-radio hits in the years between, from Nirvana to Korn."

"Where Is My Mind" was released as part of their debut album Surfer Rosa and received initial success upon its debut. Although the track was popular, it never charted on the Billboard Hot 100 charts and gained more chart status in the UK. Frontman Black Francis came up with the track while he attended the University of Massachusetts Amherst, and an experience he had scuba diving in the Caribbean.

The Pixies song has been a favorite amongst its fans for years, but the track gained pop culture status after it was debuted in the 1999 film Fight Club. The David Fincher film, based on a novel, stars Brad Pittand Edward Norton and became one of the most talked-about and controversial films released in the '90s. It wasn't deemed a box-office success, but it would later cement itself as one of the best films to be released and earn cult classic status.

Related: 1978 Hit Disco Track Ranked Among ‘Greatest Dance Songs of All Time’ Won an Oscar 47 Years Ago

Fight Club re-popularized "Where Is My Mind" after it was included in the film's final scene. Ever since, The Pixies' track became a pop culture sensation and has been included in various TV series, films, and even major events. In 2004, NASA used the track to wake up the team working on the SpiritMars rover.

"Where Is My Mind" became the band's signature track, with Franics calling its "major to minor chord shift" resonating with their overall sound. He explained that the song, "Sonically, if you had to pick a song to sum up our band this would be it. It’s emblematic of what we do with that loud/quiet dynamic."

The track has been featured in Criminal Minds, a cover track was used in Warehouse 13, and the 2017 sitcomThe Tick. It's been used in the Jared Leto film Mr. Nobody, Keanu Reeves's Knock Knock, and featured in the trailer for the Marvel film Thunderbolts. Multiple covers of the song have since been released and have been used in hit series like The Leftovers and Mr. Robot.

Ella Bleu Travolta, the daughter of John Travolta and the late actress Kelly Preston, is honoring her late mother for Mother's Day, and she looks just like her now.

John Travolta, 72, is a film legend with diverse roles ranging from Pulp Fiction and Saturday Night Fever to Grease and Look Who’s Talking under his belt. But now, the icon is taking his love of aviation in a new direction with Propeller One-Way Night Coach, his new film that features Ella Bleu, 26, in the role of a lovely flight attendant. Ella took to Instagram to honor her mom for Mother's Day, and it's safe to say that now that she's all grown up, she looks just like her mother.

"Happy Mother's Day Mama. I love you," Ella captioned her sweet photo, which showed her as a little tyke alongside her mom.

(Instagram/Ella Bleu Travolta)

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

Check out this recent photo of Ella on the red carpet at the Fashion Trust U.S. Awards 2026 at Nya Studios West in Los Angeles, California. While she made it clear that you don’t have to show a lot of skin to be alluring, she's also a carbon copy of her stunning mother.

Photo by JC Olivera on Getty Images

Related: Quote of the Day: John Travolta on Grief and Healing

“Young airplane enthusiast Jeff (newcomer Clark Shotwell) and his mother (Kelly Eviston-Quinnett) set off on a one-way cross-country odyssey to Hollywood, which transforms a simple flight into the trip of a lifetime,” reads an official synopsis for the movie. “Between airline meals, charming flight attendants (played by Ella Bleu Travolta and Olga Hoffmann), unexpected stopovers, larger-than-life passengers, and a thrilling glimpse at first class, the journey unfolds in moments both magical and unexpected, charting the course for the boy’s future.”

Check out Ella Bleu in the trailer for the film below, which will premiere on Apple TV on May 29.

Related: John Travolta and Kelly Preston’s Stunning Daughter, Ella Bleu, Plays a Flight Attendant in His New Film

It’s time to swap collecting Pokémon cards for something a little sweeter, as Hershey’s latest release is perfect for collectors (both current and nostalgic) hoping to catch ’em all.

Following the success of last summer's release, the Hershey Company is giving fans another chance to collect Pokémon-themed treats with the return of the special-edition Hershey's Kisses wrapped in collectible Pokémon foils.

And it's even more exciting this year as the release coincides with the beloved Pokémon franchise's 30th anniversary, marking three decades since the launch in 1996.

And this time, there's a twist.

The villainous Team Rocket is officially joining the fun.

Fans can collect a total of 151 Poké Ball foil designs, which include 10 new foils inspired by the Team Rocket antagonists.

"In celebration of 30 years of Pokémon, the collection introduces a new narrative-driven experience, where Team Rocket is on a mission to steal every Hershey's Kisses foil design — and they're not keeping it a secret," the press release reveals.

""With 151 Poké Ball foils and the addition of Team Rocket foils, this year's collection delivers our most fun, collectible Pokémon release yet," said Carly Andrews, Associate Brand Manager at The Hershey Company.

The limited-edition bags will be available in two sizes—9-oz share packs and 28-oz party packs—at participating retailers nationwide, hopefully, before all the scalpers scoop them up.

Fans are encouraged to act quickly because once they're gone, they're gone. The limited-time products will not be restocked.

There's even a digital interactive piece too, as fans can see how Team Rocket's story unfolds on social media, hoping to catch all the 151 foils before the villains do.

On May 12, Pokémon fans and families can scan the QR code on each pack to visit a digital collection hub, allowing them to track finds and enter for a shot at winning exclusive prizes.

The 30th anniversary celebrates the franchise created by Satoshi Tajiri and Ken Sugimori under Game Freak, published and distributed by Nintendo on the Game Boy, which has remained a global pop culture phenomenon to this day.

Happy collecting!

Forty-five years ago today, Bob Marley died in a Miami hospital at 36 years old. Too young by any measure, but old enough to have already changed the world. What few people realize is that the album most people associate with him, the one still selling hundreds of thousands of copies every year, didn't exist while he was alive.

Legend, the compilation that introduced Marley to an entirely new generation and became the best-selling reggae album in history, was released in 1984, three years after his death. It went to number one in the UK upon its release and has never really stopped selling. Since its release, Legend has annually sold over 250,000 copies, and it is among only a handful of albums to exceed 10 million copies tracked since SoundScan began its tabulations in 1991. The man behind it had been gone for years.

Marley was born February 6, 1945, in Nine Mile, Jamaica, and spent the 1970s building a musical catalog that fused reggae with rock, ska, and soul while carrying the spiritual weight of the Rastafari faith he practiced deeply. Songs like'No Woman No Cry,' 'One Love,''Redemption Song,' and 'Get Up Stand Up' became cultural touchstones. In December 1999, Time magazine named his 1977 album Exodusthe Album of the Century, and the BBC simultaneously designated 'One Love' its Song of the Millennium.

Related: The One Note in Toto's 'Africa' You've Never Noticed — And Why It Makes the Whole Song

The illness that killed him was diagnosed years before the end. In July 1977, Marley was diagnosed with a type of malignant melanoma under a toenail. By the fall of 1980, the cancer had spread to his brain, lungs, and liver, and he played his final concert in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on September 23, 1980. He traveled to Germany for alternative treatment at the clinic of Dr. Josef Issels, but it wasn't enough. At the beginning of May 1981, Marley left Germany to return to Jamaica but never completed that journey. He died at a Miami hospital on May 11, 1981.

His last words were spoken to his 9-year-old son Stephen: 'Money can't buy life.' He was 36.

Jamaica gave him a state funeral. He was posthumously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1994, with Bonoof U2 presenting the honor and Rita Marley accepting on her late husband's behalf. His birthday, February 6, was declared a national holiday in Jamaica in 1990.

The scope of what followed his death is genuinely difficult to calculate. A 2024 biopic, One Love, starring Kingsley Ben-Adir, introduced his story to yet another generation. His family, including sons Ziggy, Stephen, Damian, and others, has continued making music that extends the legacy without diluting it. Merchandise, streaming numbers, and cultural references show no signs of slowing.

What may be mots striking about Marley's story is the specific cruelty of the timeline. The album the world knows best, the one on the wall of college dorms, the one still playing at beach bars and memorial gatherings and first dances, was assembled from recordings made by a man who never heard the finished product. Legend debuted at number one on the UK Albums Chart on May 19, 1984. Bob Marley had been gone for three years.

Some artists get bigger after they die. Very few get this much bigger.

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

Comfort food is about so much more than just what’s on your plate. The meals we crave when we’re overwhelmed, emotional, exhausted, or in need of grounding reflect something much deeper within us. In numerology, your birth date carries its own energetic signature, revealing the kinds of experiences, emotions, and comforts that naturally restore you. Read on to discover your perfect comfort meal, based on your birth date.

RELATED: Your Perfect Comfort Meal, Based on Birth Month

Birth dates are listed. Disregard birth months.

✦ Read for your birth date ✦

Born on the…

1st | 2nd | 3rd | 4th | 5th | 6th | 7th | 8th | 9th | 10th

11th |12th | 13th | 14th | 15th | 16th | 17th | 18th | 19th |20th

21st | 22nd |23rd | 24th | 25th | 26th | 27th | 28th | 29th | 30th | 31st

You don’t seek comfort that feels passive; even your version of emotional restoration needs a little intensity, excitement, and momentum! Spicy Thai curry perfectly matches your energy because it feels bold, energizing, and vibrantly flavored. Your confidence is palpable, and you’re a natural-born leader so your comfort meal needs enough heat and richness to help you reconnect with your fire rather than dim it. A meal that fully awakens your senses nourishes you far more than something overly simple ever could.

RELATE?: 4 Birth Months With Strong Boundaries

Your comfort is tied to your emotional state, as you crave warmth, familiarity, and a sense of being cared for in nostalgic ways. Fresh-baked chocolate chip cookies perfectly reflect your energy because they remind you of your childhood, feel comforting, and are lovingly made. Even the smell alone can instantly shift your mood. You’re highly sensitive to atmosphere and emotional tone, and small acts of care tend to stay with you forever. Your ideal comfort food doesn’t need to be extravagant. It simply needs to make you feel safe and cozy.

Your comfort food is more about the experience than the food itself. It’s the communal aspect that really does it for you! Loaded nachos are perfect for you because they’re playful, colorful, social, and impossible to take too seriously. You thrive in environments filled with laughter, storytelling, and shared moments, making meals often part of the memory-making process.  Even during difficult times, you seek out joy, connection, and little sparks of fun that help bring you back to yourself. Comfort feels best when it’s shared.

You find comfort in what feels dependable and familiar. Pot roast is a great choice for your energy because it’s timeless. You appreciate traditions, routines, and meals that remind you of home or family history. When you’re feeling stressed, you gravitate toward foods that feel substantial and emotionally grounding rather than something trendy or unpredictable. It’s deeply healing for you to have slow-cooked meals that require patience, care, and consistency. Even better if it’s an old family recipe!

NEXT: Your Perfect Ice Cream, Based on Birth Month

Your sense of comfort doesn’t come from predictability; it’s more tied to experiences that leave room for curiosity and excitement. When life feels repetitive, you become restless, so even your comfort food needs a little. personality! Because of this need for a little thrill, dumplings perfectly fit your energy level, as they are flavorful and varied. You enjoy meals that feel experiential and slightly spontaneous, especially ones connected to travel, culture, or trying something new. 

You already associate food with love, care, and emotional connection, so a deeply healing meal, like chicken soup, perfectly reflects your energy because it feels restorative and nurturing. You’re always the person caring for everyone else, checking in on others, and making sure people feel supported, which means your comfort meal needs to feel replenishing on a soul level, too. You’re drawn toward meals that carry tenderness within them, especially foods connected to family traditions or memories of being cared for by someone you love.

Your ideal comfort meal feels simple and easy. Tea and buttered toast beautifully match your energy, creating a sense of calm your spirit genuinely needs. You’re introspective and process your emotions internally, so moments of stillness become essential and incredibly restorative for you. Simple rituals are deeply comforting for you, so a quiet evening, soft lighting, and something warm to sip while you decompress can feel surprisingly healing for your entire nervous system.

You are a hard worker, carry a lot of responsibilities, and push yourself further than other people probably realize. Because of this, your comfort meal needs to feel rewarding and indulgent. Lobster risotto perfectly matches your energy because it feels rich, satisfying, and luxurious without losing its emotional warmth. You appreciate quality in every area of life, including food, and meals become a way for you to reconnect with pleasure after long periods of ambition or stress. Comfort feels best when it allows you to fully enjoy yourself without guilt.

FURTHER: The 4 Birth Months Who Always See the Best in Everyone

You feel everything deeply and have immense compassion, effortlessly holding space for others without even realizing how much energy it takes from you. Baked ziti perfectly reflects your energy because it feels heartfelt, generous, and made to nourish many people at once. You’re someone who associates food with togetherness, warmth, and emotional connection, so your comfort comes through shared experiences. Meals that feel soulful, familiar, and lovingly prepared tend to restore you because they remind you that you deserve care, too.

UP NEXT:

Diane Keaton's daughter, Dexter "Dexie" White, honored her late mom for Mother's Day in a heartbreaking tribute.

Keaton, a legendary actress who died at age 79 on Oct. 11 of a bacterial pneumonia infection, was the focus of White's touching tribute, which showed the mother-daughter duo having fun throughout the years. Featuring photos of the two frolicking in the sun and smiling alongside each other on Dexter's wedding day, the poignant post expressed how hard it was to navigate the first Mother's Day without her mom.

"First Mother’s Day without you. I miss you more than words can say. Missing her voice, her hugs, her presence, and everything that made her home 🤍 I love you, Mom 🤍," White captioned the photo set, which could not be embedded. In her Instagram stories, she shared a shot from her wedding, writing, "I miss smiling with you. I just miss you, mom."

(Instagram/Dexie White)

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

While Keaton had several high-profile romances during her life, she always maintained that she wasn't marriage material.

"Today I was thinking about this," she said to PEOPLE in 2019. "I'm 73 and I think I'm the only one in my generation, and maybe before, who has been a single woman all her life."

 Noting that it would not "have been a good idea for me to have married," Keaton added that she was "really glad I didn't, and I'm sure they're happy about it, too," she shared about her former boyfriends, which included people like Woody Allen and Al Pacino.

"I remember one day in high school, this guy came up to me and said, 'One day you're going to make a good wife,'" she remembered. "And I thought, 'I don't want to be a wife. No.'"

While she wasn't interested in getting married, Keaton was very interested in becoming a mother. In her 50s, she adopted Dexter and her brother, Duke.

"Motherhood was not an urge I couldn't resist, it was more like a thought I'd been thinking for a very long time. So I plunged in," she told Ladies Home Journal.

Related: How to Bid on Diane Keaton's Furniture, Home Decor and Artwork in Upcoming Online Auction

Love him or hate him, Dave Ramsey may be one of the more famous financial gurus on social media. And while many people say that his debt-busting methods were the only way they could get on a financial track, there are others who are critical of his hardline approach, especially when it comes to spending.

In fact, TikToker Brian Luebben was very critical of Ramsey in a new post that quickly went viral, explaining how Ramsey's methods can keep you poor. Honestly, he's definitely onto something with this theory, even if some of the people in the comments weren't happy with what he had to say.

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

Dave ramsey is best in the world at fixing debt, not building wealth

At the start of the month, Luebben shared a post about Ramsey, accusing him of keeping people poor. The TikToker started his video by saying that, while he thinks the financial guru is the "best person in the world" at getting people from "broke to neutral." However, that's pretty much where his praise stopped.

That's because Luebben says that once people are out of debt, Ramsey's advice keeps them from building wealth, since Ramsey says that you shouldn't purchase anything unless you can pay cash for it. The TikToker used the purchase of a home as an example, saying he would not be able to pay cash for the entire deal and would instead put down only 20 percent, financing the remaining 80 percent with a mortgage.

Related: Wisconsin Woman Says Dave Ramsey’s Baby Steps ‘Changed Everything’ for Her Family

He made the same complaint about buying a business as well, saying if he were to want to invest in a plumbing company, he would only be able to put so much money down. Luebben says that it's unrealistic to expand your wealth without leveraging your money in this way. "The focus on debt payoff, while essential, might leave some viewers looking for more nuanced guidance on investing, passive income generation, and long-term wealth diversification," he wrote in part of his caption of the video.

The post quickly went viral, and people started sharing their own takes on Luebben's criticism, including one person who shared how they built wealth while following Ramsey's advice. "Me doing Dave Ramsey at 27 now worth 2.5 million with three paid for houses, no debt, and now investing half of every paycheck at 44," they wrote before adding that they planned to be able to retire by 55 as a result.

Related: Dave Ramsey Wants Tennessee Couple to Sell Their Newly Built $660k Dream Multigenerational Home

"He kills me with his 'no credit cards no exceptions,'" another person wrote. "My business buys all of our materials and pays our raw material vendors with a Chase card, and we had $22,000 in rewards last year."

"I don’t think you guys have actually bothered to listen to Dave Ramsey," yet another person chimed in.

While it's clear that Ramsey's debt snowball plan is beloved by those it helps, some people remain critical of the finance expert's advice in many cases.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.

When Caribe Hilton put down roots in San Juan, Puerto Rico, 77 years ago, it became the first of its kind. In December 1949, the property was not only the hotel chain's first location outside the continental U.S., but it also became the first modern luxury accommodation established on the island—a distinction that has made it an enduring historic landmark in the Caribbean destination.

Today, the tropical escape offers an expansive 652 rooms with sweeping ocean views, a secluded beach, a spa, a hammock garden, a basketball court, volleyball, and multiple swimming pools and restaurants on-site—not to mention, cultural history as deep as the ocean itself.

Historic in more ways than one, Caribe Hilton is recognized as the birthplace of the first-ever Piña Colada, a tasty, fruity beverage created by then-bartender Ramón "Monchito" Marrero in 1954 on the hotel's grounds. When tasked with developing a welcome drink to offer guests, he landed on the mixture of ingredients that he felt captured the true spirit of Puerto Rico after three months of experimenting.

Initially an alcohol-free concoction (what we would now refer to as a "mocktail"), but later altered to include spirits, the original recipe calls for two ounces of white rum, one ounce of coconut cream, one ounce of heavy cream, six ounces of fresh pineapple juice, and ½ cup of crushed ice, according to intel from the property that was shared directly with Parade.

In 1978, Puerto Rico made the cocktail official, naming the Piña Colada its national drink. The hotel now sells ~59,000 of the beloved beverages annually.

Related: America's First-Ever Resort Marks Historic 260-Year Legacy

"Caribe Hilton has long been a glam-tropical icon," its website states, hosting the likes of Elizabeth Taylor, Sophia Loren, Gloria Swanson, and more celebrities over the years.

Legendary Puerto Rican entertainer Iris Chacón, who made history of her own with El Show de Iris Chacón—the most-watched variety TV show on the island in the '70s and '80s—performed during the height of the hotel's nightlife era, with vibrant sold-out cabaret shows at the Club Caribe. Her legacy now lives on inside the venue's mini walk-through museum, where its most notable figures are honored.

Nearly eight decades later, what remains is Caribe Hilton's beachside oasis vibe and reputation for inviting guests into a welcoming environment that offers the best of exploratory or restorative activities and beautiful views in a central city location, just minutes from Old San Juan's famous cobblestone streets and bustling scene.

And when you do book a trip to stay at Caribe Hilton for yourself, make the most of the cultural experience in San Juan with a meal at La Casita Blanca—a favorite frequented by locals and recommended by Bad Bunny for its traditional, authentic cuisine—a visit to Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico for a greater understanding of the island's cultural legacy dating back to the 17th century, and a traditional Afro-Puerto Rican dancing class to learn Bomba y Plena.

Related: This Waterside Hotspot Is Perfect for Cherry Blossom Season

Florida banks its appeal on sunny weather, tourist attractions, zero income tax, and special tax breaks for long-term home owners. In fact, low to no taxes have been used as a selling point for migration to Florida for a long time. Rising costs of actually living there, however, are making it lose its luster. 

Lorraine English, 72, recently moved from Bradenton, Florida, to Asheville, North Carolina, due to the ferocity of natural disasters and the high costs of homeownership. While the Sunshine State does offer ‘tax havens’ to residents moving from high-income tax states like California and New York, the costs to own a home may negate those savings entirely. 

Florida has the highest insurance premiums in the country. The average $300,000 home in many areas of the U.S. pays about $ 2,543 a year in insurance, but in Florida, that same policy costs about $7,136. 

Related: Why Florida Is No Longer the Top Choice for Your Retirement, According to Real Estate Pros

The tax breaks that attract many people to Florida may not offset the inflated cost of living there. If you live in New York and make $70,000 a year, you’ll pay an average of $4000 in taxes. In Florida, there’s no tax on that income.

On the surface, it looks like a no-brainer, but when we add up the other costs, you may suddenly be losing out. Homeowners in New York with a house valued at around $600,000 will typically pay $3,021 for insurance. In Florida, that same policy will cost you $13,729.

A couple bringing in $140,000 a year may save $8,000 in taxes but will spend an additional $10,000 on insurance. Instead of saving, they’ve incurred an additional $2000 in yearly expenses. And that’s not the only additional fee. 

Related: Move Over, Florida: These Cold-Weather States Are Making a Major Comeback for Retirees

Florida’s property taxes have skyrocketed. The state government has more than doubled the cost, outpacing national inflation and population growth combined. Couple that with rapidly increasing housing prices, going from around $250,000 to $376,000 in 2026 alone, and you have a tax nightmare for new buyers.

📬 Get Parade's newsletter in your inbox for more great stories every day 📬

It’s no wonder residents are choosing Florida’s less expensive neighbors, like Georgia, Texas, and North Carolina, where housing is more affordable. Florida ranks #44 out of 50 states in housing affordability. 

So, while the Sunshine State used to have the appeal of lower taxes, affordable homes, and beautiful weather, the rapidly changing landscape of these factors has many residents fleeing. 

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.

NBC has unveiled its fall schedule for the 2026-2027 broadcast season, which includes the addition of a new broadcast edition of The Traitors, which will feature host Alan Cumming overseeing non-celebrity contestants as the Faithful seek to oust the Traitors to claim the show’s $250,000 cash prize, and four new scripted series.

On the drama side, NBC is adding Line of Fire, an intense and compelling family drama starring award winners Peter Krause and Hope Davis; and The Rockford Files, a modern-day retelling of the iconic IP starring David Boreanaz.

On the comedy front, there’s Newlyweds, played by real-life couple Téa Leoni and Tim Daly, who find love after a whirlwind courtship; and Sunset P.I., a comedy from the executive producers of Brooklyn Nine-Nine.

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

In addition, NBC has greenlit a new game show series based on Wordle, the globally beloved word game from The New York Times Games. An avid Wordle player, Today co-host Savannah Guthrie will serve as host of the primetime gameshow executive produced by Jimmy Fallon. It has not yet given a date and time on the fall schedule.

NBC will also host the Emmy Awards this year on Monday, Sept. 14, again roll out the big balloons for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade® on Nov. 26, and celebrate its own 100th anniversary with a special airing on Dec. 10, and there will be lots and lots of sports programming, which take over the Saturday and Sunday nights in prime time in the fall. No decision has been made as yet on The Hunting Party.

Take a look at NBC's full fall schedulef for 2026 below.

(New programs in UPPER CASE; all times ET/PT)

8-10 p.m. – The Voice

10-11 p.m. – LINE OF FIRE

Related: The Voice Adds Country Superstar as New Coach for Season 30

8-8:30 p.m. – St. Denis Medical

8:30-9 p.m. – The Fall and Rise of Reggie Dinkins

9-10 p.m. – The Voice

10-11 p.m. – LINE OF FIRE

8-11 p.m. NBA

8-9 p.m. – Chicago Med

9-10 p.m. – Chicago Fire

10-11 p.m. – Chicago P.D.

8-9 p.m. – THE TRAITORS

9-10 p.m. – Law & Order: SVU

10-11 p.m. – Law & Order

8-8:30- p.m. – Happy’s Place

8:30-9 p.m. – NEWLYWEDS

9-11 p.m. – DATELINE NBC

7-7:30 P.M. ET— Big Ten Pregame / Notre Dame Pregame (also live on Peacock)

7:30-11 P.M. ET— Big Ten Saturday Night / Notre Dame Football (also live on Peacock)

7-8:20 P.M. ET— Football Night in America (also live on Peacock)

8:20-11 P.M. ET— NBC Sunday Night Football (also live on Peacock)

A family of law enforcement agents bridges personal differences and crosses professional boundaries as they tackle cases for the FBI, US Marshals, Secret Service and Department of Justice. After a seemingly cut-and-dry case turns into a deadly conspiracy, they must use the expertise from a lifetime of protecting civilians and politicians to protect one another and bring the killer to justice … even if it means betraying their sworn code.

The series stars Peter Krause, Hope Davis, Kat Cunning, Tommy O’Brien, Taylor Bloom and Charlie Barnett.

A contemporary update on the classic series of the same name. Newly paroled after doing time for a crime he didn’t commit, James Rockford returns to his life as a private investigator using his charm and wit to solve cases around Los Angeles. It doesn't take long for his quest for legitimacy to land him squarely in the crosshairs of both local police and organized crime.

The series stars David Boreanaz, Michaela McManus, Felix Solis and Jacki Weaver.

Continues the proud tradition of Los Angeles private eyes that began with Philip Marlowe and will end with this show.

 The series stars Jake Johnson, Jane Levy, Langston Kerman, Mary Shalaby and Keith David.

A later-in-life love story about a free-spirited woman and a buttoned-up professor who marry impetuously after a whirlwind courtship.

The series stars Téa Leoni and Tim Daly with Jamie Lee Curtis as a recurring guest star.

The Traitors is coming to NBC with an all-new civilian version of Peacock’s Emmy Award-winning competition reality series known for strategic gameplay and skillful saboteurs. 

 In this brand-new iteration of The Traitors, Emmy-winning host Alan Cumming is opening the doors to his now infamous castle in the Scottish Highlands to everyday Americans. There he will ask them, “Are you a Faithful? Or are you a Traitor?” The Traitors is a nail-biting psychological adventure in which treachery and deceit are the name of the game. Set at an ancient castle set deep in the Scottish Highlands, contestants work together on a series of exhilarating missions to build a prize fund worth up to $250,000. Hidden amongst the Faithful are the Traitors, whose goal is to eliminate the Faithful and claim the prize for themselves. Under the cover of darkness, the Traitors murder the Faithful one by one in a treacherous spree while the Faithful try to uncover the Traitors and banish them from the game. If the Faithful contestants banish all the Traitors, they will share the prize fund, but if a Traitor (or Traitors) makes it to the end, they will steal all the money.   

NBC has greenlit a new game show series based on Wordle, the globally beloved word game from The New York Times Games.  An avid “Wordle” player, Today co-host Savannah Guthrie will serve as host of the primetime gameshow. The new format challenges players to solve five-letter word puzzles in a supersized battle of smarts, speed and fun. It builds on the way the puzzle community engages with Wordle every day — solving together, sharing wins, debating strategies and cheering one another on. Now, that style of play comes to life as the most-obsessed and competitive players will team up in squads and go head-to-head in the Wordle arena, playing for an incredible cash prize.

Next, Is Your Favorite Show Coming Back or Canceled? See Our Fall TV 2026–2027 Guide

It's no secret that the Social Security Administration (SSA) is in some trouble. And while there's a bit of disagreement on exactly what is going to happen with the fund—the SSA says that it expects to be able to continue making payments until 2037, while others believe that it could run out of money as early as 2032—it's clear that the future of the benefit is uncertain.

We talked to some experts to figure out how you should start preparing, especially if you're nearing retirement age. Here's what they said you should do now to help keep your retirement plans on track, no matter what happens with Social Security.

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

If you're able to, Eric Croak, CFP and President at Croak Capital, says you should try a four-pronged approach to planning for your retirement, which includes:

• Maxing out your 401(k) contributions ($23,500 for 2025; $24,500 for 2026)
• Fund a Roth IRA
• Contribute to an HSA that you're ok using as a stealth retirement account
• Use after-tax brokerage dollars

"Dividing investments among accounts with different tax treatments lets you layer your withdrawals to minimize taxes," he explains. "Assuming you can save $30,000 to $50,000 per year for 25 years and earn an average of 7 percent after fees, that could grow to $1.9 mil to $3.2 mil, which translates to $76,000 to $128,000 a year in retirement income at a 4 percent withdrawal rate."

Related: The Secret To Boosting Your Social Security Check by 30 Percent

If you're looking for alternative ways to earn money in retirement, Eric Hughes of Rental Income Advisors suggests purchasing some rental properties.

"I personally was able to leave my corporate job in the retail industry at age 39 thanks to cash-flowing rental properties that provide me with $100,000 in annual income," he says. "Cash flow properties tend to be lower-cost homes in middling neighborhoods—nothing fancy."

According to him, you can expect to bring a 5 to 10 percent cash return, with a total return of about 20 percent.

Debt matters just as much as savings, according to Alex Langan, Chief Investment Officer and Financial Advisor with Langan Financial Group, LLC. "A retiree who owns their home outright and carries no high-interest debt needs significantly less monthly income than one who's still servicing a mortgage and credit card balances," he explains, adding that reducing fixed expenses before retirement is one of the most underrated ways to reduce dependence on any single income source, including Social Security. 

Related: Why Your Social Security Benefits Might Be Taxed for the First Time Ever

Paul Gillooly, Financial Advisor at Dot Dot Loans, says that worrying without a plan does little to help you save money. As such, he says it's good to come up with alternative options that allow you to reduce your reliance on Social Security, treating it as a supplement rather than your main source of income. To do that, he suggests making some adjustments to your retirement planning.

"And changes don’t have to be drastic, even a few small things here and there—upping contributions, having less debt, and being less quick to want to spend, and more inclined to save—can really make a difference over time."

With the future of Social Security so uncertain, it's good to know that you can start taking steps today to prepare.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.