Parade

In the midst of a dazzling new Dancing With The Stars season premiere, complete with explosive dance moves and sparkling outfits, there was one thing nobody saw coming: surprisingly low scores, which judge Derek Hough recently defended in an exclusive interview with Us.

During the season 35 two-night Dancing With The Stars premiere on Tuesday and Wednesday, viewers were stunned when Hough and the other judges, Carrie Ann Inaba and Bruno Tonioli, doled out scores of 3s and 4s.

In a show like Dancing With The Stars, where competition is cutthroat, both the dancers and their avid fans are hoping their performance warrants a high score. When that doesn’t happen, it can spark backlash.

Derek Hough at the 78th Emmy Awards held at Peacock Theater on September 14, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Michael Buckner/Variety via Getty Images)

Michael Buckner / Getty Images

During this season premiere, dancers saw some of the lowest scores in the show’s history, with Guillermo Rodriguez earning only 10 points out of a possible 30. His pro partner, Witney Carson, called the low scores “lame.” Another pair, Tatyana Ali and her pro partner, Jan Ravnik, received 12 points.

Speaking exclusively to Us on Thursday, Hough explained, “I think it’s changing the value of the numbers. It’s going to be a little bit of a shock to the system because it’s the first week and stuff, but for me, my hope is that over time, if [a contestant gets] a 5, you’re like, ‘I got a 5.’ Like, ‘Oh, my gosh, I got a 5’ versus like, ‘Oh, my God, that’s insulting. Oh, my gosh, that’s crazy.'”

“Premiere: Night Two” – The female celebrities make their competition debut, performing to a No. 1 song from the year they were born, with one eliminated at the end of the night.

Eric McCandless / Getty Images

He went on to explain that the lower scores were not a reflection of the dancers, but rather an indication of the judges’ intentionality. Defending his scoring as “pretty accurate,” he explained that he wanted high scores to mean something; for them to reflect on the growth he anticipates the dancers having throughout the season.

“And now when somebody gets an 8, it’s going to mean something. I think that that’s really important.”

Dancing With the Stars is available to watch on ABC and Disney+ Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET.

Related: ‘Dancing with the Stars’ Themes for Season 35 Revealed

You may remember internally panicking on your 30th or 40th birthday—where did the time go? Now, you may look back at those birthdays and say, “I was so young,” because turning 50 can throw you for a loop. If you’re a parent, your kids may be leaving for college, and you may experience the effects of having an empty nest on your mental health. Whether or not you have children, hitting the half-century mark is a good time to reflect on your habits around relationships, work and your stress response.

“These habits may have helped us build a career, raise a family, maintain relationships, or get through difficult periods of our lives,” explains Dr. Ernesto Lira de la Rosa, Ph.D., a psychologist and Hope for Depression Research Foundation media advisor. “Something that worked really well for us at 30, though, may not necessarily be what we need at 50.”

Instead of assuming that you need to keep living the way you always have, Dr. Lira de la Rosa says that a 50th birthday gives you a chance to ask yourself, “What still fits and what doesn’t?”

“That doesn’t mean there was something wrong with how we were living before,” he states. “Our lives change, and sometimes we need to change with them.”

There’s also an argument out there to reinvent yourself at 50—no pressure, especially if you’re caring for aging or younger loved ones (or both).

So with all of the advice and noise from others, Parade spoke with three psychologists to find out the main habit people over 50 should break, and why. Plus how to reframe things as you hit midlife so you can thrive in your 50s and beyond.

Related: Psychiatrist Says People Over 50 Have 1 Social Advantage Younger Adults Often Don’t

The Unanimous Answer: Stop Saying ‘It’s Too Late for Me’

According to three psychologists, one of the biggest habits to break at 50 is saying, “It’s too late for me.”

When you believe it’s too late, you may not try something new, creating a self-fulfilling prophecy that can trigger sadness, anxiety and jealousy. Words are powerful and how we speak to ourselves can seriously make or break our mental health and motivations in life. A self-limiting phrase like this one can affect your relationships and mood.

Related: The One Hobby Neurologists and Psychologists Both Recommend After Retirement

The Neuroscience: How Self-Limiting Beliefs Accelerate Aging

Some studies on the psychology of aging suggest that negative beliefs about age can predict poorer memory, slower walking speed and biomarkers linked to Alzheimer’s Disease.

You can’t manifest your way to reverse aging, and psychologists stop short of calling cognitive decline a self-fulfilling prophecy. But psychologists say your mindset can affect your overall quality of life and how you feel every day.

“Aging and cognitive changes are complex, but our expectations and behaviors can influence how we experience and respond to those changes,” explains Dr. Holly Schiff, PsyD, a licensed clinical psychologist.

When we say “it’s too late,” we can behave as if it’s too late, warns Dr. Michele Leno, PhD, a licensed psychologist and host of “Mind Matters with Dr. Michele.”

“This internal dialogue, rooted in irrational beliefs, will zap your motivation and make you anxious and sad,” Dr. Leno explains. “You may even envy your peers for excelling simply because you relinquished your desire to do so. Your mindset, not age, is defeating you.”

Dr. Lira de la Rosa agrees.

“I think ‘It’s too late for me’ is such a powerful statement because once we believe it, we can stop asking what is actually possible,” he notes. “By midlife, people have a lot more history to look back on. There may be careers they didn’t pursue, relationships that didn’t work out, things they wish they had done differently or a version of their life they thought they would have by now.”

He states that it’s a short trip from “regret” to “resignation.”

Related: 9 Habits To Help You Stay Youthful in Your 70s, According to a Psychologist

5 Other ‘Midlife Habits’ You Need To Leave Behind

Saying “it’s too late for me” is one of many habits to break at 50. After all, it’s never too late to eliminate a behavior that isn’t serving you. Psychologists share five more things to leave in your first half-century of life.

1. Stop people-pleasing

Putting a stop to people-pleasing in midlife isn’t easy, but it’s a gift to yourself.

“People-pleasing… can become especially exhausting in midlife because you’re often balancing multiple roles and responsibilities,” Dr. Schiff says. “If you’re constantly trying to keep everyone happy, you can end up with very little time or energy left for yourself.

She calls midlife prime time to realize that you’re a good friend, colleague, partner or parent, even if you don’t always say yes.

“Learning to say ‘no’ without excessive guilt is not selfish,” she shares. “It’s a boundary.”

2. Comparing your timeline to everyone else’s

Kids aren’t the only ones who experience FOMO. Milestone birthdays can leave you feeling behind instead of hopeful about the future.

“By midlife, it’s very easy to look around and see someone who has the career, relationship, family, house or lifestyle you think you should have,” Dr. Schiff notes. “The problem is that you’re comparing your entire life to one small piece of someone else’s.”

When you compare yourself to others, she says you focus on what you think you’re missing rather than how to build on where you are.

“Your next chapter doesn’t need to look like anyone else’s to be a good one,” she reminds us.

3. Taking it too ‘easy’

You may assume that just because you’re 50, you can’t handle stress anymore. But you can still walk with a pep in your step—and even make great strides toward bucket-list fitness goals if you have them.

“While you may not have the agility of a 6-year-old, there is no need to retreat to your lazy chair,” Dr. Leno states. “In the long run, a sedentary lifestyle may cause more pain than running a marathon.”

4. Being too hard on yourself

On the flip side, remember that rest is not lazy. Dr. Lira de la Rosa is begging people to stop treating exhaustion as proof that they’re doing enough.

“A lot of people get to midlife after decades of being incredibly productive. Work, children, relationships, aging parents, finances and household responsibilities can keep someone moving from one thing to the next,” he says. “You can become so accustomed to being needed and getting things done that exhaustion almost starts to feel normal.”

But he thinks 50 is as good a time as ever to question the idea that “constant busyness” means you’re living well.

“Sometimes we keep moving because slowing down brings us into contact with things we haven’t had much time to think about, including what we actually want,” he explains. “Rest isn’t something we should have to earn only after everything else is finished, because for most adults, everything is never finished.”

5. White-knuckling it through empty nest syndrome

You don’t have to pretend you don’t feel a connection between having an empty nest and mental health.

“I wouldn’t frame empty nesting as something people simply need to ‘get over,'” Dr. Lira de la Rosa says. “It is a transition, and transitions often involve both loss and possibility.”

And it’s OK to see the good in those possibilities.

“It can bring other parts of life back into focus,” he states. “What is my relationship with my partner like now? What happened to some of my friendships? What do I enjoy doing when I’m not taking care of someone else? Those questions can be uncomfortable, but they can also open up a new stage of life.”

Related: 6 ‘Midlife Resets’ That Actually Work, Backed by Psychology

How To Reframe the ‘Second Act’ of Your Life

There’s a ton of “life-after-50 advice” out there. One piece that Dr. Lira de la Rosa isn’t a fan of: The idea that you have to consider reinventing yourself at 50. He says the word “reinvention” carries a lot of pressure.

“It can make people feel like they need to quit their jobs, move across the country, or become a completely different person for the next chapter of their lives to matter,” he explains. “I think a more interesting question is: What parts of myself haven’t had enough room?”

For instance, he says that you may have spent two decades raising children, putting interests aside in the process.

“Maybe your career took up most of your energy,” Dr. Lira de la Rosa notes. “Maybe you’ve spent much of your adult life being responsible for other people, and you’re realizing you don’t actually know what you enjoy when nobody needs anything from you.”

He says there’s an interesting shift that happens around age 50. You start asking, “What actually matters to me now?” rather than “What am I supposed to do?”

“Sometimes the answer will be exactly what you’ve already built,” the psychologist says. “Other times you may realize that something you wanted at 30 doesn’t fit who you are at 50. Changing your mind doesn’t mean the earlier version of your life was a mistake. It means you’ve continued developing.”

Related: 75 Quotes About Aging Gracefully and Powerfully

The ‘Blank Slate’ Exercise for Finding Your Next Purpose

Mindset isn’t everything, but it still matters in midlife and beyond. Dr. Schiff shares a 5-step “blank slate” exercise to help you find purpose after 50.

1. Imagine you’re starting with a blank slate

Visualize a blank slate. Then, literally take a pen to a blank sheet of paper. Dr. Schiff suggests writing down your:

• Age
• Relationship status
• Job title
• Responsibilities
• Everything else you normally use to describe yourself

“Then, for the purposes of the exercise, imagine none of those things determine what you do next,” Dr. Schiff says.

2. Ask yourself three questions

Dr. Schiff suggests reflecting on these three questions:

• What would I be curious to explore?
• What kinds of activities make me lose track of time?
• What do I want my everyday life to feel like?

“Don’t worry about whether the answers are practical yet,” she shares.

3. Look for themes

Now, it’s time to “analyze” your own writing. What keeps popping up?

“Maybe you keep writing about creativity, helping people, being outdoors, learning, travel, animals, community or working with your hands,” Dr. Schiff points out. “You’re looking for patterns rather than one perfect answer.”

4. Turn one theme into an experiment

You won’t completely overhaul your life in five minutes. Instead, start small. For instance, say you wrote, “I miss being creative.”

“Don’t immediately decide you need to become an artist,” Dr. Schiff says. “Take a class, start a small project, visit a museum, or spend two hours doing something creative.”

5. Pay attention to how you feel afterward

Reflecting on your reflection can seem repetitive, but it’s important. Dr. Schiff suggests asking yourself, “Did this give me energy? Did I feel more like myself? Do I want to do it again?” She notes that the answers are useful information.

“The reason I like this exercise is that purpose doesn’t always arrive as one big revelation,” she adds. “Sometimes you discover purpose by experimenting. You don’t have to know exactly what your next chapter looks like before you take the first step.”

Up Next:

Related: We Asked 3 Psychologists What Couples Over 50 Fight About Most—It Wasn’t Money

Sources:

• Dr. Ernesto Lira de la Rosa, PhD, is a psychologist and Hope for Depression Research Foundation media advisor.
• Dr. Holly Schiff, PsyD, is a licensed clinical psychologist.
• Dr. Michele Leno, PhD, is a licensed psychologist and host of “Mind Matters with Dr. Michele.”
• Subliminal Strengthening: Improving Elders’ Physical Function over Time through an Implicit-Age-Stereotype Intervention. (2014) Psychological Science.

Firefall’s “Just Remember I Love You” remains one of the notable soft rock songs of the 1970s, nearly five decades after it first reached radio listeners. 

Released as a single in 1977, the song was written by Firefall singer and guitarist Rick Roberts and became a major chart success from the band’s second album, Luna Sea.

According to Elpee, it reached No. 11 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 and No. 1 on the U.S. Easy Listening chart. It also reached No. 1 on Canada’s Adult Contemporary chart.

The song came from Firefall, a band that formed in Boulder, Colorado, in 1974. Roberts and guitarist Jock Bartley were among the musicians who helped build the group, which developed a sound that mixed rock, country and soft rock.

“Just Remember I Love You” arrived at an important point in Firefall’s early career. The group had already scored a major hit with “You Are the Woman,” which reached No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1976. The follow-up single showed that Firefall could again connect with a wide radio audience.

Firefall – Just Remember I Love You pic.twitter.com/ZAoxEShslu

— OneOutOfFour (@OneOutOf4) November 14, 2025

Released on July 21, 1977, “Just Remember I Love You” came from Luna Sea, which was released that same year. The album reached No. 27 on the U.S. Billboard album chart and was later certified gold.

The song’s success was not limited to the main U.S. singles chart. “Just Remember I Love You” spent two weeks at No. 9 on Cashbox and reached No. 1 on the U.S. Easy Listening chart. In Canada, it reached No. 6 on the RPM Top Singles chart and No. 1 on the RPM Adult Contemporary chart.

The song also had a notable connection to another major name in 1970s rock. Timothy B. Schmit provided backing vocals on the recording, per Grunge. Schmit was known for his work with Poco and later became a member of the Eagles.

Rick Roberts was the songwriter behind the track. According to Songfacts, the song presents encouragement to someone dealing with deep sadness and hopelessness. That theme helped make the recording different from a simple love song because its message focuses on giving support to someone going through a difficult period.

The lyrics describe a person dealing with trouble, loneliness and fading hope before returning to the song’s central message of love and reassurance. That direct approach has helped the song remain recognizable among listeners who remember the softer side of 1970s rock.

Firefall guitarist Jock Bartley described the different songwriting approaches within the band. He said on the Songfacts podcast, “Once we started to have some hit records and he was making a lot of money from publishing, Rick wrote a lot of his songs as a formula, and he kept thinking about getting radio play.”

Bartley also explained that Larry Burnett’s writing had a different character, saying that Burnett wrote songs “as the purging of his soul.” This gave Firefall a mix of Roberts’ more upbeat material and Burnett’s darker songs.

Firefall began in Boulder after Roberts and Bartley came together and recruited other musicians, including Mark Andes and Larry Burnett. The band also included drummer Michael Clarke, who had been a member of the Byrds and the Flying Burrito Brothers.

The group first moved toward a softer sound after its early work as a rock band. Its first major hit, “You Are the Woman,” came from the band’s 1976 debut album. “Just Remember I Love You” followed that success and became the biggest single from Luna Sea.

The recording is also part of Firefall’s larger run of successful singles. After “Just Remember I Love You,” the band had another Top 20 hit with “Strange Way” in 1978. Other charting songs included “Cinderella,” “Headed for a Fall” and “Staying with It.”

Firefall’s history continued long after its biggest 1970s hits. The band went through many lineup changes, returned to touring, released new music and continued performing its older songs. 

In 2015, Firefall was inducted into the Colorado Music Hall of Fame, recognizing the band’s place in the state’s music history. The group has also continued releasing music, including Comet in 2020 and Friends & Family in 2023, followed by Friends & Family 2 in 2025.

Related: 1969 Country Rock Song, With 22-Year-Old Singer of The Flying Burrito Brothers, Is Still a Powerful Hit 57 Years Later

Hollywood’s most controversial artificial intelligence creation just demonstrated one of the risks of putting an AI “actress” on live television.

Tilly Norwood, the computer-generated character promoted as an aspiring movie star, unexpectedly began speaking Cantonese during an appearance on Piers Morgan Uncensored.

The strange moment occurred as Norwood discussed her upcoming movie, Misaligned, alongside veteran actor Tom Conti.

EXCLUSIVE: AI actress Tilly Norwood glitches and starts speaking CHINESE during her interview with Piers Morgan and real-life actor Tom Conti…

Watch the full interview at 7pm (BST)👇

📺 https://t.co/1nTb79BH8D@piersmorgan | @TillyNorwoodX pic.twitter.com/DDkveWvVzz

— Piers Morgan Uncensored (@PiersUncensored) September 18, 2026

Conti asked whether the performers appearing with Norwood in the film were human actors or computer-generated characters. After initially explaining that human writers, directors and editors remained involved, Norwood revealed that her costars were “all digital twins” like her.

Then, in the middle of her answer, she abruptly switched from English to Cantonese for approximately 15 seconds.

“I didn’t quite get that,” Conti said as Morgan began laughing.

“You seem to be speaking Chinese completely randomly for no reason,” Morgan told Norwood before asking why she had done it.

Norwood switched back to English and apologized, calling the incident a “little hiccup” and saying that her “wires get a bit crossed” sometimes.

The unusual exchange quickly spread online. A clip shared by Piers Morgan Uncensored has accumulated approximately 13 million views.

Norwood’s creator, Eline Van der Velden, offered a different interpretation of the moment. She told Deadline that Norwood may simply have wanted to demonstrate her language skills.

Norwood later joined in on the joke, writing on X, “You try speaking 30+ languages and see if you don’t show off occasionally.”

View this post on Instagram

The digital character was created by Xicoia, the AI division of production company Particle6, and first attracted widespread attention in 2025. Her emergence sparked immediate resistance from human performers and SAG-AFTRA, which declared that Norwood “is not an actor”.

Whatever caused the unexpected language switch, the moment gave viewers a revealing glimpse of what can happen when a synthetic performer is asked to respond in real time.

If you grew up watching ’80s movies and ’90s television, chances are you know Mare Winningham and Anthony Edwards from more than one favorite. What you may not know is that the two beloved actors had been friends for 35 years before their relationship took an unexpected turn. After crossing paths in Hollywood, the two went on to live separate lives, marry and raise families before reconnecting years later. In 2021, their relationship took an unexpected turn, turning a decades-long Hollywood friendship into a love story fans didn’t see see coming.

Mare Winningham and Anthony Edwards Go Way Back View this post on Instagram

The love story of Mare Winningham and Anthony Edwards reads like a classic romantic comedy, except their story took decades to reach its final act.

They first crossed paths as young actors when they screen-tested for the 1985 romantic comedy The Sure Thing. Neither landed the lead role, but Edwards was cast as John Cusack’s best friend, and the audition marked the beginning of a friendship that would last for decades.

The two starred together in Miracle Mile, the 1988 cult film about a young Los Angeles couple whose new romance is upended by the threat of nuclear war. They later appeared together on ER, with Winningham playing a woman who becomes fixated on Edwards’ Dr. Mark Greene.

Behind the scenes, though, their relationship was something even more lasting: a friendship that survived decades of changes in both of their lives.

Related: Carrot Top’s Net Worth After 30 Years in Comedy Has a Surprising Connection to Las Vegas

Their Friendship Eventually Turned Into Love

Both actors went on to marry, have families and build successful careers, all while remaining friends.

After their respective divorces, they found themselves living in New York City at the same time. Their longtime friendship unexpectedly became something more, and in late 2021, the pair quietly eloped.

There was no lavish Hollywood wedding. It was just the two of them, along with a friend who officiated the ceremony.

“We’re too old to throw weddings,” Edwards told Esquire in 2022.

Mare Winningham Was a Familiar Face of the ’80s and ’90s

For anyone who grew up with ’80s movies and television, Winningham’s career is filled with familiar touchstones.

She played Wendy Beamish in St. Elmo’s Fire and starred opposite Edwards in Miracle Mile. She later appeared in projects including Turner & Hooch, Mildred Pierce, Grey’s Anatomy, American Horror Story and Dopesick. She also earned an Oscar nomination for her performance in Georgia and has won two Emmys.

Her career has continued well beyond the era when audiences first came to know her, including a Broadway run in Girl From the North Country around the time her marriage to Edwards was revealed.

Anthony Edwards Grew From ’80s Movie Star to Beloved TV Doctor

Edwards was equally woven into the pop culture of the era.

Audiences knew him as Goose in Top Gun and from Revenge of the Nerds before he took on the role that would make him one of television’s most recognizable stars: Dr. Mark Greene on ER. He played Greene for eight seasons, becoming one of the central faces of the hit medical drama.

The eventual pairing of Edwards and Winningham is especially fun for longtime fans. These weren’t simply two actors who happened to meet later in life. They had been part of the same Hollywood story for decades.

Their Hollywood Friendship Took 35 Years to Become a Love Story @nickigostin

#anthonyedwards #er #actor #marewinningham #actress #couple #couplegoals #redcarpet #broadway #newyorkcity

♬ original sound – Nicki

That’s what makes their relationship revelation so charming.

We watched Winningham and Edwards on screen while many of us were figuring out our own lives, from the angst of St. Elmo’s Fire to the romance and uncertainty of Miracle Mile and the emotional drama of ER.

All those years later, two actors who had known each other since they were young found themselves in the same city, at a different stage of life and looking at their longtime friendship in a completely different way.

It’s the kind of Hollywood love story that feels almost too perfect for a movie: Two people meet when they’re young, build separate lives, stay friends through it all and eventually discover that the person they’ve known for decades may have been the person they were meant to find all along.

“I had no idea. This was the best news I heard all day!!!!!” one fan wrote on social media, echoing the reaction of many longtime viewers.

For fans who watched Mare Winningham and Anthony Edwards become familiar faces of the ’80s and ’90s, their enduring friendship turning into love feels like an especially sweet surprise — and a reminder that sometimes the best stories take a very long time to unfold.

Related: Figure Skating Legend, Known as ‘Fred Astaire on Skates,’ Has Fans Saying Thank You for Bringing Back His Iconic Performances

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A dog that launches itself at a window or a cat that treats the screen like a scratching post can turn a new window into a frustrating repair project. For pet owners, choosing the best replacement windows means looking beyond appearance and energy efficiency. The screen material, frame construction, glass package and overall fit all deserve attention.

The good news: You don’t necessarily need a specialized “pet window.” The smarter approach is to choose durable components and identify which parts of the window are most vulnerable to your pet’s behavior.

If your existing screens are already torn, loose or bent, a professional inspection from Renewal by Andersen can determine whether replacement windows or a screen-only solution makes more sense. Get your free quote today!

What Are the Best Replacement Windows for Pet Owners?

The best replacement windows for pet owners use durable screen materials, sturdy frames and glass selected for the home’s specific needs. Stainless-steel screen mesh is a strong option where pets frequently push against or paw at screens. Durable frame materials also reduce maintenance concerns over time.

For Renewal by Andersen, homeowners can choose conventional aluminum or TruScene stainless-steel insect screens. The company says its stainless-steel mesh is stronger than aluminum and designed to resist damage from everyday use.

That makes the screen a more important consideration than simply searching for “scratch-resistant glass.”

Start With the Screen

Screens are usually the first component to suffer when a dog presses against a window or a cat claws at it. A pet doesn’t need to break through the screen to create a problem; repeated pressure can stretch, bend or puncture conventional mesh.

Renewal by Andersen offers two primary screen choices:

• Standard aluminum: Lightweight and durable for everyday use.
• TruScene stainless steel: Micro-fine stainless-steel mesh that is stronger than aluminum and offers 50% greater clarity than the company’s standard aluminum screen.

The company describes the stainless-steel option as having mesh one-third the diameter of standard screen wire. That finer construction provides a tighter weave while maintaining airflow and visibility.

For a home with an indoor cat that regularly attacks window screens, or a dog that jumps against them when it sees squirrels outside, stainless steel deserves serious consideration.

Is Stainless-Steel Mesh Better for Dogs and Cats?

Yes, when screen durability is the primary concern. Stainless-steel mesh is stronger than aluminum, making it a logical upgrade for windows exposed to repeated contact from pets.

Renewal by Andersen specifically states that its TruScene stainless-steel screens “resist damage from everyday use.” That does not mean any screen is indestructible. A determined dog or cat can eventually damage a screen, particularly if claws repeatedly catch the mesh. Pet behavior also varies considerably.

The better strategy is to combine durable mesh with the right window placement and, when necessary, additional barriers that keep pets from reaching the screen.

Consider How Your Pet Uses the Window

Before choosing a replacement window, look at the behavior causing the damage.

• If your dog jumps at the window: A durable screen is useful, but the larger concern may be the force repeatedly applied to the entire window assembly.
• If your cat scratches the screen: Stainless-steel mesh is a logical upgrade over conventional fiberglass.
• If your pet simply sits beside the window: Screen durability may be less important than visibility, ventilation and easy cleaning.

This distinction can prevent you from paying for features you don’t actually need.

What About Scratch-Resistant Window Glass?

Window glass deserves attention, but homeowners should be careful with the term “scratch-resistant.” Standard residential window glass is not designed to withstand direct scratching from sharp claws indefinitely.

The more practical goal is to select a durable glass package appropriate for the home’s exposure while focusing pet-specific durability efforts on the screen.

Glass can still be damaged by impact, abrasive debris and improper cleaning. If your pet repeatedly jumps against a window, a professional can also evaluate whether the existing glass is appropriate for the opening and application.

Renewal by Andersen offers multiple glass packages designed around different performance needs, including Low-E options and impact-resistant glass for certain applications. The appropriate choice depends on the home’s location, window opening and performance requirements.

For pet owners, the key distinction is simple: Don’t assume a special glass coating will solve a screen problem. If claws are the issue, address the mesh.

Related: Vinyl vs. Fiberglass Windows: What’s the Difference?

How Durable Are Renewal by Andersen Windows?

Renewal by Andersen’s Fibrex composite material has undergone long-term durability testing. The company reports that six window units installed in a Minnesota home were tested after 30 years of exposure to severe weather. According to the company, the material remained two times stronger than vinyl and showed no cracking, rotting, pitting, corrosion, flaking, blistering or peeling.

That testing doesn’t establish that Fibrex is claw-proof. It does provide evidence for the durability of the window’s frame material under long-term environmental exposure.

For pet owners, that distinction is useful. A window can have a durable frame while its screen remains the component most vulnerable to claws or repeated impact.

Compare the Components Before You Buy

Window component

What pet owners should consider

Renewal by Andersen option

Screen mesh

Resistance to repeated contact and punctures

Aluminum or TruScene stainless steel

Frame

Long-term resistance to weather-related deterioration

Fibrex composite

Glass

Appropriate durability and performance for the opening

Multiple glass packages

Screen visibility

How clearly you can see pets and the yard

TruScene offers 50% more clarity than standard aluminum

Maintenance

Ease of removal and cleaning

Removable screen options

When Should You Replace the Whole Window?

A damaged screen alone doesn’t automatically mean you need replacement windows. If the frame, glass and operating hardware remain in good condition, replacing the screen may be enough.

Whole-window replacement deserves consideration when pet damage is accompanied by other problems such as difficult operation, air leakage, damaged glass, deteriorated frames or persistent maintenance issues.

Renewal by Andersen’s service materials specifically identify issues, including air leakage, glass cracking or breakage, operating problems and water leakage as reasons homeowners may request service.

If you’re seeing several of these problems at once, an inspection can help determine whether repairing one component is worthwhile or whether replacement provides the better long-term solution.

New Windows From Renewal by Andersen

Renewal by Andersen

Professional window replacement from Renewal by Andersen can help you save money on your utility bills.

Get a Quote Now

A Pet-Durable Window Starts With the Right Specification

For most pet owners, the best replacement windows aren’t defined by a single “pet-proof” feature. Start with the part your animal actually damages.

If claws are tearing screens, consider stainless-steel mesh. If a large dog repeatedly impacts a window, evaluate the entire window assembly rather than focusing solely on the glass. And if an aging window already has operational or air-leakage problems, replacement may solve several issues at once.

Ready to find out which replacement window and screen options fit your home? Schedule a free consultation and quote with Renewal by Andersen. A professional can inspect the existing windows, discuss your pet’s specific behavior and help determine which combination of screen, glass and frame options makes sense for the project.

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Overhead lighting can be a little harsh when you’re trying to wind down at night, which is why a table lamp can be a welcome addition to a bedroom, office, or living room. Beyond creating a softer glow, the right lamp can also bring a decorative touch to a space, and Walmart has a crystal-inspired option that adds a little old-school elegance to any room. 

Right now, The Coliware Crystal Cordless Table Lamp is currently on sale for $19 at Walmart, down from $27. The gold-tone lamp has a crystal-inspired design and a cordless construction, making it easy to move around your home or take outside when you want a little extra light. 

Coliware Crystal Cordless Table Lamp, $19 (was $27) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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Measuring 12.6 inches long, 5.67 inches wide, and 5.63 inches high, this petite lamp pairs a gold-tone finish with a crystal shade that catches the light, giving it an elegant sparkle. It has three color temperatures, including a warm 3000K setting for relaxing, a neutral 4500K option, and a brighter 6500K light for reading or working. The dimming feature also lets you adjust the brightness, while touch controls at the base make it easy to turn the lamp on and change its settings with just a tap. 

The cordless design is especially handy when you want to add light somewhere without an outlet nearby. The built-in 3000mAh rechargeable battery lets you move the lamp from room to room, or take it outside for an evening on the patio or backyard table.

Shoppers are impressed with the lamp’s appearance, with several reviewers calling it “cute” and “pretty.” Another buyer praised its battery life, writing, “I love the quick way it charges and lasts for a long time.”

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Related: Amazon’s $13 Tulip Table Lamp Adds a Dose of Sunshine to Your Space All Year Long

Whether you’re adding a softer glow to a bedroom, brightening a home office, or creating a cozy spot on the patio, the Coliware Crystal Cordless Table Lamp brings a pretty glow wherever you need it for just $19. Head to Walmart to snag one while it’s still in stock and on sale! 

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There are a lot of flashy new skincare products on the market, but sometimes you just need to go back to the basics.

Aquaphor healing ointment is over 100 years old, but it remains a dermatologist favorite still today. In fact, it’s even seen a boost in recent years due to the “slugging” skincare trend. That’s where people put a layer of Aquaphor over their usual nighttime skincare products to provide a barrier that seals the hydration in overnight.

We spoke with three dermatologists about the continued prevalence of the product, and why they think it’s had such an enduring run in the skincare space.

The three experts Parade consulted are Dr. Danny Guo, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist, Dr. Sejal Shah, a board-certified dermatologist with a private practice in Manhattan and Dr. Kavita Mariwalla, a double board-certified dermatologist and the 2026 President of the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery.

If you haven’t yet added this classic skincare item into your routine, these experts will likely convince you. Dr. Mariwalla says that she loves recommending Aquaphor to her patients “for its proven track record of safety.” And Dr. Guo adds that he appreciates that it’s a “no-frills” product that helps protect your skin barrier. Keep reading to learn more about all the benefits of using this popular moisturizing cream.

Related: ‘I’m a Dermatologist and This Is the Morning Routine I Swear By To Keep My Skin Barrier Strong’

Amazon

Shop It at Amazon What Is Aquaphor—and Why Is the 100-Year-Old Formula Still Unmatched?

According to the brand’s website, what we now know as Aquaphor Advanced Therapy Healing Ointment ($13) was originally trademarked in 1924. It was initially sold to doctors, pharmacists and hospitals before becoming widely available to the public in 1982.

As Dr. Shah explains, the product is a “petrolatum-based skin protectant” that “forms a protective barrier that helps reduce water loss.” Other ingredients like glycerin, mineral oil and more “provide additional moisturizing and soothing benefits,” says Dr. Shah.

She adds, “Although the formula is relatively simple, I believe Aquaphor has stood the test of time because it effectively creates a protective barrier that supports and protects damaged or excessively dry skin.”

Related: The One Thing a Skincare Expert Is Begging Women Over 50 to Start Doing

Why Dermatologists Swear By Aquaphor Over Ordinary Petroleum Jelly

According to Dr. Shah, “Aquaphor provides the occlusive benefits of petrolatum while also incorporating additional moisturizing and soothing ingredients.”

“It also has a slightly different texture and spreadability compared with plain petroleum jelly, making it easier to apply and distribute over the skin,” she continues.

Dr. Guo adds that Aquaphor is particularly useful for hydrating lips, because “for many people, Aquaphor has a better textural experience than traditional 100% petrolatum.”

Related: The Clever Lipstick Trick We Wish We’d Known About Sooner

How To Use Aquaphor in Your Modern Skincare Routine

There are many ways to incorporate Aquaphor into a skincare routine—some of which you may not even have considered.

“I think of Aquaphor as the final protective layer rather than the moisturizer itself, so I typically recommend applying a very thin layer after your moisturizer in areas needing extra protection,” says Dr. Shah.

She suggests focusing on areas that lose moisture quickly “such as around the lips, the sides of the nose … hands, feet, elbows, cuticles and areas prone to friction or chafing.”

Dr. Mariwalla adds that you can also use the product to style your hair.

“A very thin amount rubbed and warmed between the hands is excellent for flyaways on your hair,” she says, sharing that you can massage some onto split ends as well.

And, as the “healing” part of its name suggests, Aquaphor can also be spread over “superficial scratches or injuries,” says Dr. Guo.

Related: We Asked 3 Dermatologists About the 1 Sunscreen They’d Never Use and They All Said the Same Thing

Aquaphor vs. Vaseline: What’s the Real Difference?

“Vaseline is pure petroleum, whereas Aquaphor contains additional ingredients,” Dr. Shah tells Parade. “They both function as skin protectants and barriers but they aren’t identical products.”

How can you decide which one is best for you?

“If you want the simplest possible formula and maximum occlusion, plain petroleum jelly is hard to beat,” she continues. “If you want something that feels more like a multifunctional skincare ointment, Aquaphor has the advantage.”

Is Aquaphor Safe for Sensitive or Acne-Prone Skin?

Dr. Mariwalla says that Aquaphor, which is fragrance-free and preservative-free, is generally safe for sensitive skin, but you should be cautious if you struggle with acne, “because acne can flare for a number of reasons.”

Dr. Shah elaborates, explaining, “Because it forms a thick, occlusive barrier, it can trap dirt, sweat and sebum if applied to unclean skin or used excessively on acne-prone areas. People who are particularly prone to acne or congestion may find that it contributes to breakouts.”

She adds that if you’re acne-prone, start with a “small area rather than applying it over your entire face.”

Up Next:

Related: Dermatologists Settle the Debate: Does Vitamin C Really Fade Dark Spots?

Sources:

• Dr. Danny Guo, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist
• Dr. Sejal Shah, a board-certified dermatologist with a private practice in Manhattan
• Dr. Kavita Mariwalla, a double board-certified dermatologist and the 2026 President of the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery

Britney Spears’ “Toxic” became one of the defining pop songs of the 2000s, but the track was never originally planned for her.

The song was written in Sweden with Janet Jackson in mind, according to co-writer Cathy Dennis. It later reached Australian singer Kylie Minogue, who turned it down. Spears eventually recorded the song for her fourth studio album, In the Zone, changing the course of what would become one of her best-known hits.

Released as the album’s second single, “Toxic” reached No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 and stayed on the chart for 20 weeks. It also became a No. 1 hit in several countries.

Its reputation continued to grow after its chart run. Rolling Stone placed “Toxic” at No. 114 on its 500 Greatest Songs of All Time list, a ranking selected with help from more than 250 artists, writers and music-industry figures.

Singer Britney Spears performs during the 42nd Annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles, California.

Photo by HECTOR MATA/AFP via Getty Images

The song also gave Spears her only Grammy win. “Toxic” won Best Dance Recording at the 47th Annual Grammy Awards in 2005.

How ‘Toxic’ Reached Britney Spears

The song came from Cathy Dennis, Henrik Jonback, Christian Karlsson and Pontus Winnberg, with Karlsson and Winnberg producing it as Bloodshy & Avant.

Dennis explained the song’s early history to Rolling Stone. “That was written in Sweden,” she said. “I went over there to write with Janet Jackson in mind.”

The track did not end up with Jackson. It was then offered to Minogue, who also passed on it.

Minogue described the decision in simple terms. She said she heard a short part of the song at a record-company office and decided against it. After Spears recorded it, Minogue referred to the missed opportunity as “the fish that got away.”

For Spears, the song arrived at a useful moment in her career. “Toxic” was part of In the Zone, an album that explored dance-pop and electronic sounds while giving Spears a different musical direction.

The recording stood out because of its unusual mix of sounds. It combines dance-pop and techno-pop with strings, synthesizers, drums and surf guitar. Its hook also uses material from the 1981 Bollywood song “Tere Mere Beech Mein.”

The song performed even better in several international markets. It reached No. 1 in countries including Australia, Canada, Ireland, Norway, Portugal, Scotland and the United Kingdom.

The music video also became an important part of the song’s identity. Directed by Joseph Kahn, it follows Spears through a spy-style story in which she takes on several disguises and targets a cheating boyfriend.

Among its most recognizable scenes is Spears covered in diamonds. The video also features her as a flight attendant and later in a black outfit while riding a motorcycle with model Tyson Beckford.

The video was eventually recognized as a major part of the song’s lasting appeal. It also received multiple award nominations and wins, including recognition for its visual effects.

Spears continued performing “Toxic” during several major shows and tours. It appeared in the set lists for the Onyx Hotel Tour, The Circus Starring Britney Spears, the Femme Fatale Tour and Britney: Piece of Me.

Other artists have recorded covers, while “Toxic” has appeared in films and television shows, including Pitch Perfect 3, Doctor Who and Glee.

For a song that began as a track intended for someone else, “Toxic” ultimately became strongly connected to Britney Spears. Its journey from a Swedish songwriting session to a Billboard top-10 hit and Grammy-winning recording remains one of the more unusual stories behind a major pop song.

Related: Iconic Revenge Song, Ranked Among ‘Best Breakup Songs of All Time,’ Was Originally Written for Gretchen Wilson

Princess Diana’s brother Charles Spencer has some strong words for King Charles. After excerpts from Spencer’s new book, ‘Swan Song: Diana, My Sister,’ dropped, King Charles took an unprecedented step and publicly fired back. But the story doesn’t end there.

Spencer spoke to ABC News/Good Morning America’s Maggie Rulli, responding to the stunning statement issued by Buckingham Palace that, “While we do not comment on books as a matter of principle, His Majesty is mindful that the pain of fraternal grief can cloud reason, affect judgment, and color memory in ways others do not recognize, even many years after such a loss,” saying, “Well, it’s not every day you’re gaslit by a king.”

He continued, “But I was really upset with that because I thought it was very, not only condescending, but not straight. What I said is straight and true. And what do they come back with? That. It doesn’t say he didn’t say it either. That’s what I found interesting. I was really shocked, actually.”

Charles Spencer, the brother of the late Princess Diana, is pushing back on Buckingham Palace about the rare royal reaction to his book reflecting on his sister and his memories of Britain’s royal family.

Watch the full interview tomorrow on “GMA.”https://t.co/IJCk5N16BN pic.twitter.com/vNPBOZ8aQa

— Good Morning America (@GMA) September 20, 2026

Bombshell stories from Spencer’s soon-to-be-released memoir asserted that King Charles, “unleashed down the phone what I have always taken to be his pent-up contempt for Diana, and his horror that the world was so bowled over by her death. ‘Rest assured,’ he hissed, ‘we’ll forget her soon enough.’”

What do those near to the royals think about these statements? The Times recently reported that a source close to King Charles responded to the excerpts from Spencer’s book, revealing, “He is saddened that the sorrows of old are being dragged up again,” and an aide shared, “The King was rather more concerned about the future of mankind than the unkind claims of one man picking the scars of the past.”

While Spencer has faced criticism of the memoir, with some of the King’s supporters claiming he wrote it simply for a payday, other insiders aren’t on board with that assumption. One of the King’s aides told The Times, “If I were to hazard a guess, I’d say it’s more that, contrary to some public expectations and perhaps quite a few private hopes, the King and Queen have proved rather adept and popular in their new roles.”

For more on this story, watch the full interview with Charles Spencer and Maggie Rulli on Monday, September 21 from 7:00 to 9:00 a.m. ET on ABC’s Good Morning America. 

Patrick Mahomes may be one of the biggest stars in football, but at home, he’s simply Dad. As the Kansas City Chiefs quarterback steps back onto the field Sunday for his second game back after the knee injury that ended his 2025 season early, his kids have a sweet message on for their father that offers a glimpse at the person fans don’t always get to see behind the helmet.

Mahomes’ return is a big moment for football fans, but his family has been along for a much more personal part of the journey.

In a piece for The Players’ Tribune, Mahomes’ children shared messages for their dad as he returned to the field, turning what could have been another football milestone into something much more meaningful.

Patrick Mahomes’ Kids See a Different Side of Their Dad View this post on Instagram

For all the touchdowns, trophies and unforgettable moments that have made Mahomes one of the most recognizable athletes in the world, his kids know him for something much simpler.

He’s their dad.

That perspective is part of what makes hearing from his children so sweet. While fans have watched Mahomes work his way back from the injury, his family has experienced the quieter side of that process — the dad who is home, spending time with his kids and navigating life away from the stadium.

And now, they’re getting to watch him do what he loves again.

Mahomes has spoken openly over the years about how important his family is to him, and his role as a father has become a big part of his life away from football. He and his wife, Brittany Mahomes, share three children, daughters Sterling and Golden, and son Bronze.

Related: Brittany Mahomes Shares Adorable Family Moments From First 2025 Chiefs Game

Fans Get a Glimpse of Patrick Mahomes the Dad View this post on Instagram

It’s easy to forget that athletes who seem larger than life on television have an entirely different role when they walk through their front door.

For Mahomes, that’s where the quarterback disappears and Dad takes over.

His kids’ message is a reminder that his return isn’t only significant because he’s back doing something he loves. It’s also a moment his family gets to celebrate after watching him work through a difficult stretch.

And honestly, that’s the part fans can connect with.

The football will always be there. But seeing Mahomes through his children’s eyes gives his return a much more personal meaning.

Related: Brittany and Patrick Mahomes Are Couples Goals at ‘The Kingdom’ Premiere in Kansas City

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In 1988, one of the biggest songs in America needed no instruments at all. Just Bobby McFerrin’s voice.

At the time, McFerrin was hardly an unknown. The supremely versatile vocalist had already won multiple Grammys and built a reputation for using his voice in ways that could make one person sound like an entire ensemble. But “Don’t Worry, Be Happy” would take him somewhere entirely new, turning the acclaimed jazz vocalist into a worldwide pop star.

McFerrin encountered the phrase “Don’t worry, be happy,” associated with Indian spiritual master Meher Baba, and was taken by its simplicity. While recording his album Simple Pleasures, he turned that phrase into a song at Fantasy Studios in Berkeley, California. Four simple words and one extraordinary voice were all Bobby McFerrin needed to make pop history.

The recording contains no conventional instruments whatsoever, relying entirely on sounds created by McFerrin himself.

“Bobby used to go out there and start with what he called the basic track, which was a rhythm bass-y part,” explained engineer Chris Tergesen in a 2010 Mix interview. “He would do his trademark thing of slapping his chest as he sang the bass part and it would also create little transients and percussive sounds coming out of his voice. Sometimes he would double it, and then he would do harmonies after that, and somewhere along the line he would come up with the melody and play with that for a while. Last would be the lead vocal.”

And the Caribbean accent? Manager and producer Linda Goldstein later recalled that it grew out of McFerrin and the studio team joking around with exaggerated accents on their way into the session. And it wasn’t Caribbean at all, but rather Spanish.

“To this day people think it’s Bob Marley or some Jamaican guy,” said Goldstein. “But it’s not. That’s how bad [McFerrin’s] Spanish accent is!”

Released in 1988 and also featured on the soundtrack to the Tom Cruise movie Cocktail, “Don’t Worry, Be Happy” became something no one could have reasonably predicted. In September, it reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming the first completely a cappella recording ever to top the chart. It remained there for two weeks. When asked why the song became a hit, Goldstein attributed it to McFerrin himself.

“I think we captured this unpretentious pure joy that is part of Bobby,” Goldstein shared. “Everyone expected him to take the route of self-promotion that is sort of required by the industry, but that’s not Bobby. He basically decided to stay home. That song had its own wings.”

Then came the Grammys. In 1989, “Don’t Worry, Be Happy” won three of the night’s major awards: Record of the Year, Song of the Year and Best Pop Vocal Performance, Male. McFerrin won a fourth Grammy that night for his jazz performance on “Brothers.”

But the song quickly became bigger than its chart statistics. Its title entered the cultural vocabulary as a shorthand for optimism, while the playful music video — with McFerrin joined by Robin Williams and performance artist Bill Irwin — reinforced its sense of uncomplicated joy.

Inevitably, such ubiquity also produced a backlash, and McFerrin largely moved away from the song as he continued exploring jazz, classical music, conducting and vocal improvisation. McFerrin later reflected on both the surprising nature of the hit and the criticism that followed.

“It was just a very simple tune that I wrote one day out of the blue,” McFerrin told The Roanoke Times. “It took off. People latched onto it; it was played to death. Most people don’t think of me beyond that.” 

When criticized for having “too much fun” on stage, McFerrin pointed to Mozart, asking, “How can you say that when you listen to Mozart and this guy’s having so much fun with music? It’s amazing. He’s just beside himself with joy in his music. You’re saying I’m having too much fun? You should go check Mozart.”

But it’s not the criticism that endures. It’s the song itself.

Other musicians have continued finding new uses for “Don’t Worry, Be Happy.” Pentatonix and Tori Kelly folded “Don’t Worry, Be Happy” into a 2014 mashup with “Winter Wonderland,” while New Orleans musicians including Kermit Ruffins, Irvin Mayfield, Jason Marsalis, Cyril Neville and Haley Reinhart recorded their own version for the 2017 album A Beautiful World.

More than three decades after it conquered pop radio, its cultural standing received perhaps its most significant confirmation yet. In 2024, “Don’t Worry, Be Happy” was selected for preservation in the Library of Congress‘ National Recording Registry, which recognizes recordings considered culturally, historically or aesthetically significant. The Library described McFerrin’s unlikely No. 1 as an “ode to simple joy.”

Perhaps that is why “Don’t Worry, Be Happy” has lived on. Beneath the irresistible melody and deceptively simple message is something more fundamental: our enduring need for optimism. And sometimes a song that makes us smile, sing and whistle along is enough to quiet the noise for a few minutes and let a little joy in.

Related: 1968 Country Song, Inspired by One Night in New Orleans Jail, Is Still a Generational Hit 58 Years Later

Joe Alwyn has the rumor mill buzzing.

On Sept. 17, Taylor Swift’s ex was spotted with comedian Mary Beth Barone in New York City, The Cut reported. In addition to images that captured the two walking across the Williamsburg Bridge, they were also seen stopping at several local bars, with Barone even trying on Alwyn’s baseball cap at one point. Though neither celebrity has confirmed they’re dating, the images are causing a stir online.

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But now there’s another development: Pop culture account Deux Moi recently shared a photo of Alwyn out with actress Sarah Pidgeon again, this time in New York on Sept. 20, just days after the Barone outing.

View this post on Instagram

The two had previously been linked after being spotted together several times over the summer, including being seen kissing in June while watching a Knicks game in Fort Greene.

Who Is Mary Beth Barone?

An American stand-up comedian, writer, and actress, Mary Beth Barone is known for her comedy and media presence. She’s currently promoting her Netflix comedy special Mary Beth Barone: Galaxy Brain, which arrived on the streaming service in July.

Amy Sussman / Getty Images

Further acting credits include appearances in Netflix’s Black Mirror and the comedy series Overcompensating. Barone is also the co-host of Ride, a podcast she shares with Benito Skinner.

Barone has also joked openly about the way celebrity relationships can become publicity vehicles. During a July appearance on Late Night with Seth Meyers, she recalled Netflix offering to help promote her comedy special by setting her up with a “PR relationship.”

“They said, ‘Not that, but we could set you up in a PR relationship. Choose a guy from any of our Netflix properties,’” she said.

Who Is Sarah Pidgeon?

American actress Sarah Pidgeon has earned Emmy and Tony nominations for her television and theater work. She recently received an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie for her portrayal of Carolyn Bessette in Ryan Murphy’s FX/Hulu drama Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette.

ANGELA WEISS / Getty Images

Before her turn in Love Story, she starred in Prime Video’s The Wilds and Hulu’s Tiny Beautiful Things. She made her Broadway debut in David Adjmi’s Stereophonic, earning a 2024 Tony Award nomination for Best Featured Actress in a Play.

In June, a source told Us Weekly that Alwyn and Pidgeon were “casually dating” and had been going on low-key dates in New York for several months, adding that they are “really into each other.”

What Is Taylor Swift Up to Now?

As for Taylor Swift, she was last spotted on Saturday, Sept. 19, in Kansas City, Missouri, celebrating Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes‘ 31st birthday, People reported. She was with her husband, Travis Kelce, at the upscale steakhouse 1587 Prime.

David Eulitt / Getty Images

Earlier that week, Swift was spotted at Arrowhead Stadium during the Kansas City Chiefs’ season opener against the Denver Broncos on Sept. 14. She watched from a VIP suite alongside actor Tom Cruise, with whom she was photographed chatting during the game.

Related: 1977 Bond Girl, Who Lost a Major TV Role to Another Actress 47 Years Ago, Is Now 80 and Unbothered

Carrie Underwood joined Guns N’ Roses on Saturday (Sept. 19) evening at Truist Park in Atlanta, Georgia, for the final show of the U.S. leg of their tour.

Onstage, the country music superstar, 43, and American Idol judge, known as an avid lover of classic rock and metal music, teamed with the band for a high-energy rendition of their beloved ‘80s hit, “Sweet Child o’ Mine.” 

RELATED: 1977 Tom Petty Song, Reimagined by Chris Stapleton, Ranked Among ‘Greatest Songs of All Time’

Lucky fans who attended the show shared their enthusiasm for the surprise collaboration, posting videos of the moment on social media. 

One TikTok video shows Underwood singing the lead effortlessly, showcasing her powerhouse country vocals on the tune while wearing cheetah-print shorts and a lacy, black top. She accessorized her look with layered necklaces, a studded belt, and loose curls. 

@jeremeyp

@Guns N’ Roses had @Carrie Underwood as a special guest in Atlanta tonight. She sang on Sweet Child O’ Mine and Paradise City. The show rocked! #gunsnroses #carrieunderwood #axlrose #slash

♬ original sound – Jeremey Poindexter

According to other clips that surfaced on social media, Underwood also joined the band for their hit, “Paradise City.”  

Released on June 3, 1988, “Sweet Child o’ Mine” appears on Guns N’ Roses’ 1987 album, Appetite for Destruction. To date, the tune is the rock band’s only U.S. No. 1 hit, reaching the top spot on the Billboard Hot 100 and staying for two weeks. 

Since its release, “Sweet Child o’ Mine” has gone on to become a beloved hit in Guns N’ Roses’ catalog, having made several lists, including Rolling Stone’s “500 Greatest Songs of All Time” 2004 list and No. 12 on Ultimate Classic Rock’s “Top 100 Classic Rock Songs of All Time.” Known for its memorable introduction, the song also ranked at No. 25 on Rolling Stone’s “100 Greatest Guitar Solos” of all time.

After sharing the stage with the iconic rockers, Underwood celebrated the memory on Instagram with a carousel of photos from the collaboration, and the caption: “Yet another amazing show from @gunsnroses …this time in #Atlanta@truistpark !!! 🔥🔥🔥”

View this post on Instagram

“Thanks, @axlrose duffmckagan @slash @dizzyfnreed @4tus @isaaccarpenter and the whole crew for having us and for letting me try and keep up on stage!” She continued, thanking the members of the band. “You are always so kind! ❤️ you all forever!”

This isn’t the only time Underwood will be hanging out with Guns N’ Roses. According to a report by American Songwriter, which cited TMZ, she recently enlisted Rose to mentor her through her new upcoming rock-musical era.

Related: Luke Bryan Forced to Cancel Another Farm Tour Stop: ‘Call Was Made for Everyone’s Safety’

A scene from Will Smith‘s award-winning apocalyptic thriller movie has resurfaced after it accidentally predicted the future of U.S. gas prices.

As the numbers continue to rise across the country, popular Instagram account @todayyearsold shared a chilling still from 2007’s I Am Legend, which shows that the predicted numbers are on par with those in real life today.

The filmmakers behind the movie, set in a post-apocalyptic New York City, put the prices for gas at $6.63 as a subtle visual cue that society was on the verge of collapse. In Sept. 2026, almost two decades after the movie was released, gas prices in California are chillingly similar to those shown in the film.

“At the time, the average American was paying around $3 a gallon and those numbers felt like pure science fiction,” the Instagram account wrote in a caption.

As of Sept. 20, 2026, California’s statewide average for regular gasoline is now $6.15 per gallon, up more than $1.40 from this time last year. Per @todayyearsold, San Francisco prices are averaging $6.23 and some Bay Area stations are already topping $6.30.

View this post on Instagram

“The prices are being driven by the ongoing disruption to oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz, the closure of two major California refineries, and the state’s isolated fuel market, which cannot import gas from other states,” the account noted. “Will Smith’s apocalyptic backdrop is no longer the punchline it used to be.”

Social media users have been discussing the comparison, with some noting that the prices will only continue to hike as winter draws closer.

“It’s not even winter yet. Just wait a few more months,” one Reddit user wrote. “You’d see it jump by a dollar or two.”

Another mused, “Honestly the way the past few years have gone, people turning into rabid zombies wouldn’t even surprise me anymore.”

Related: Legendary Golden Globe-Winning Actor Harrison Ford Makes Bold Admission About ‘Star Wars’ Role

Jenni ‘JWoww’ Farley addressed ongoing comments from fans about her body and weight as many continued to accuse her of using weight-loss medication to slim down.

In September, JWoww appeared in a video with her family at the Macy’s Rookie Kids Runway show in New York City. The Jersey Shore star posed on the red carpet for the special event to support her two kids, Meilani and Grayson.

After seeing the video, many people started commenting about her physical appearance, accusing her of using Ozempic to lose weight. This included replies like, “Def on Ozempic,” and “I didn’t recognize her lol.”

“Oh jenni. What happened. I love you but this is too extreme,” wrote a third person in the comments.

JWoww has faced these sorts of comments for some time now, but this time around, she took a moment to respond directly to the conversation in the comments of the video, sharing that the sudden weight loss was the result of her recent hospitalization.

“Apologies to everyone offended by my weight lol,” she began, before explaining in detail what happened at the hospital. “I have never been this thin since middle school, but unfortunately, I was told I couldn’t eat for six days in the hospital as they debated taking out my appendix while I was also suffering from a kidney abscess the size of a golf ball…”

JWoww noted that the infection had been bothering her throughout this past summer, so the weight loss had been ongoing as she suffered from the health issue.

Clapping back at the fans, she went on, “What sucks more is the fact that I can’t control how thin I am right now and I did not do any ‘shots’ for this to happen…but I will ask when I gain all the way back for you to then comment about how fat I got 😂😂 because women can’t win either way.”

Supportive fans replied to her honest message, saying things like, “do what you gotta girl you first always remember that,” and “you look amazing as always!!!. No need to explain yourself to others.” Others wished her a quick recovery.

Related: Fans Congratulate “Living Legend” Mike Wolfe on the American Pickers Star’s Landmark Accomplishment

View this post on Instagram

JWoww shared an in-depth post about her hospitalization at the start of September, including a photo of herself in a hospital gown with her two kids as they got ready for their first day of the school year.

At the time, she called the ordeal “one of the hardest weeks of my life” and noted that she hadn’t been feeling like herself for months. Thankfully, the visit seemed to go well, and JWoww is currently recovering from her health issues.

Related: Elizabeth Hurley, 61, Poses in Peach Bikini and Shares Sunset Kiss With Billy Ray Cyrus in New Update

Rise and shine? Your brain certainly wants to do just that physiologically.

“Every morning, our brain experiences a natural surge in a stress hormone called cortisol, which transitions us from a state of rest to alertness,” Dr. Adil Niaz, MD, a neurologist at Jersey Shore University Medical Center, explains to Parade.

Research over the last few decades indicates that the cortisol awakening response (CAR) is linked to better cognitive performance and executive function throughout the day. Yet, you may experience “sleep inertia” (morning fog). That’s actually natural, too.

“Upon waking up, the primitive areas of the brain that control basic survival functions wake up immediately, but the prefrontal cortex—part of our brain responsible for complex decision-making—takes time to fully come online,” Dr. Niaz says.

It doesn’t help that we just spent several hours not drinking water, and even mild dehydration can make it harder to do anything that requires attention or memory.

“In the long term, making brain-healthy morning choices builds what neurologists call cognitive reserve,” Dr. Niaz shares. “Research published in The Lancet Neurology explains that cognitive reserve is essentially a savings account of brain health built through positive lifestyle habits, and it acts as a powerful buffer that protects against age-related cognitive decline.”

All of the above makes the morning an “exceptional” time to focus on good habits for your brain. “These habits anchor our biological rhythm, clearing sleep inertia much faster,” Dr. Niaz says.

Below, he shares the morning habit he swears by for brain health and why it helps him get into a cognitive groove.

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‘The Morning Habit for Brain Health I Try Not To Skip as a Neurologist’

Dr. Niaz makes a point of doing some light exercise every morning (or at least three times per week). Some of his go-to exercises include stretching, a few push-ups and squats. He tries to move around for 15 minutes before he starts getting ready for the day to raise his heart rate. You might wonder, “What does getting my heart rate up have to do with my brain?”

“Light to moderate physical activity is beneficial for your brain because it flushes your brain with oxygen-rich blood and triggers the release of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor, or BDNF, which acts like fertilizer for your brain cells,” he tells Parade.

In fact, research shows that regular, moderate aerobic exercise can increase the size of your brain’s primary memory center (the hippocampus) by 2% annually.

“This research proved that movement can change the brain’s physical structure for the better, effectively reversing age-related volume loss,” Dr. Niaz says.

Anecdotally, he can attest to the cognitive and mental-health benefits of starting his day with a morning movement habit, which he developed a few years ago.

“It just helps me wake up,” Dr. Niaz says. “I feel more clear-headed and focused after I move around, especially when I have a busy day ahead.”

Plus, this habit is actually accessible—he doesn’t need to get to the gym and can do it at home. “As a neurologist, I advise my patients to do some kind of regular exercise several times a week for brain health, so this is an easy way to start making it a habit,” he tells Parade.

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The Benefits of Morning Physical Activity for Brain Health

You’ll get the most long-term brain health benefits if you do morning physical activity consistently over years.

“Over the course of a few months to a few years, a consistent brain-healthy morning routine provides long-term protection against memory loss, physical growth of the brain’s memory capacity and the preservation of executive function,” Dr. Niaz explains.

In a 2020 report, The Lancet Commission on Dementia Prevention, Intervention, and Care noted that adjusting lifestyle factors, including regular physical activity, could prevent or delay up to 40% of global dementia cases.

“This provides massive scientific weight to the idea that our daily habits act as a literal shield for our cognitive longevity as we age,” he explains.

And if you’re a fan of instant gratification, morning exercise habits can provide it for your brain. “If you adopt a brain-healthy morning routine, you may notice significantly sharper focus, a more balanced mood and deeper sleep as soon as that same night,” Dr. Niaz adds.

In fact, research suggests that even one bout of physical activity can immediately enhance mood, improve cognitive focus and alter brain chemistry by releasing dopamine and serotonin for up to two hours afterward.

Related: The One Hobby Neurologists and Psychologists Both Recommend After Retirement

How To Develop This Brain-Healthy Habit

Healthy habits are hard to start and even harder to keep. Below, Dr. Niaz shares a few tips that helped him start his brain-healthy morning habit of exercising for around 15 minutes.

1. Start small

There’s no need to enter the lottery for the New York City Marathon if you’re not a regular runner right now.

“One of the most effective ways to begin a new exercise or any new routine that benefits our health is to start small so that you can feel a sense of accomplishment and avoid burnout or discouragement,” Dr. Niaz says. “A person who has not exercised before, or in a long time, might begin with a small walk in the morning or by following a simple low-impact exercise video.”

From there, he says you can spend the next week (or more) increasing the frequency and duration of your morning workouts.

2. Tap a friend

If possible, Dr. Niaz suggests trying the “buddy system,” saying it can make physical activity more enjoyable. And you’re more likely to stick with something you enjoy.

“Take a walk with your partner or a neighbor or friend who can meet you at a mutually convenient time and place,” he says. “Or, FaceTime with a friend and do a video exercise together.”

He points out that you’ll get a 2-for-1 brain-health special by working out with a friend, noting that research links social connections to more positive cognitive well-being.

3. Start the night before

Yep, morning habits start at night. Set yourself up for success by preparing your environment.

“By putting your walking shoes right next to your coffee maker, you rely on the science of associative learning and environmental cues rather than sheer willpower, making the habit much easier for your brain to adopt step by step,” Dr. Niaz reports.

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Sources:

• Dr. Adil Niaz, MD, a neurologist at Jersey Shore University Medical Center
• The cortisol awakening response is associated with performance of a serial sequence reaction time task. Psychoneuroendocrinology.
• Thalamic dynamics orchestrate the recovery of tonic alertness during nocturnal sleep inertia. Communications Biology.
• Dehydration Impairs Cognitive Performance: A Meta-analysis. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise.
• Defining Cognitive Reserve and Implications for Cognitive Aging. The Lancet Neurology.
• Exercise training increases size of hippocampus and improves memory. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
• Dementia prevention, intervention, and care: 2020 report of the Lancet Commission. The Lancet Commission on Dementia Prevention, Intervention, and Care.
• Circadian Entrainment to the Natural Light-Dark Cycle across Seasons and the Weekend. Current Biology.
• Social connections as determinants of cognitive health and as targets for social interventions in persons with or at risk of Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders: a scoping review. International Psychogeriatrics.

Nostalgia is having a serious moment. Between the return of scalloped edges, checkerboard everything and groovy florals, it feels like social media raided a grandmother’s 1970s sunroom and decided to keep the vibes. Retro-inspired finds are showing up everywhere, from our closets to our kitchens, and the best part is that you don’t need a vintage shop budget to join in.

This Five Below’s Retro Shaped Rug proves that, ringing up at just $5.55. That’s less than a coffee run, and it comes with a lot more staying power.

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The rug comes in two styles. Pink Multi is the sweetheart of the pair, with a scalloped pink border framing a blue-and-pink checkerboard circle. Flower goes for full groovy energy, with stacked rings of light blue, green, orange and purple radiating out to a bright blue bloom in the center.

Retro Shaped Rug, $5.55 at Five Below

Five Below

Both rugs measure 30 inches by 30 inches. They’re tufted from 100 percent cotton for a soft landing underfoot, and the grippy underside helps keep them from wandering off across the floor.

Because it’s compact, this rug fits in almost any space. It’d be great in a bathroom, swapping a beige mat for something with personality. Or, place it next to your bedside to give your feet a cheerful place to land in the morning. You could also place it next to the sink so your feet are nice and cozy while you’re doing dishes.  It would also be nice tucked under a desk chair or in an entryway for a bit of a maximalist look.

Related: Dollar General’s Adorable $2 Pumpkin Print Oven Mitt Looks Straight Out of a Cottage Kitchen

Let the rug be the star and keep everything around it simple. The Pink Multi pairs beautifully with soft neutrals, and its checkerboard center looks great next to a black-and-white print or a pastel throw blanket. The Flower rug can handle more chaos, so lean into a mismatched-but-fun look with vintage-style lamps, a bright ceramic vase or a wall of quirky art.

For a bigger statement, layer it on top of a larger neutral rug or buy both designs and use them in different rooms so your color story carries through the house. It’s also a low-risk gift for a college student, someone moving into their first apartment or anyone who appreciates a bit of retro maximalist charm.

Rugs this cute usually cost a lot more than $5.55. Grab yours before someone else does.

Related: Marshalls’ $25 Wicker Mum Wreath Might Be the Easiest Glow-Up Your Front Door Gets This Year

If your childhood career plan involved working at the Most Magical Place on Earth, it might be time to dust off that résumé.

Walt Disney World Resort plans to add more than 5,000 jobs in Central Florida over the next five years, opening the door for thousands of new Cast Members as Disney enters a major era of growth. The resort already employs around 80,000 Cast Members, and Disney says more opportunities are on the way.

In other words, there could be a lot more chances to get your foot in the castle door.

Related: Planning a Disney World Vacation Could Soon Look Very Different Thanks to a Major New Change

What Kind of Jobs Are Available at Disney World?

Forget the idea that working at Disney World means you have to spend your days operating rides or serving Dole Whip. Disney Careers regularly lists opportunities spanning everything from culinary and hotel operations to engineering, horticulture, marketing, data science and plenty of other behind-the-scenes roles.

“There’s a whole operation behind the scenes, and those cast members are laying the foundation to help create that experience,” Disney Ambassador Kylee Withers told WESH. “And I think the cast members that you don’t see oftentimes are the ones that help really immerse our guests in that experience.”

And there are plenty of ways to turn an entry-level Disney job into a long-term career. According to Disney, three out of five company leaders started in hourly roles, while full-time Cast Members in professional, leadership and skilled positions stay with the company for an average of 12 years.

College students and recent grads have another way in: the Disney College Program, which offers participants the chance to live, learn and work at Walt Disney World while gaining professional experience. Program perks include weekly pay, complimentary theme park admission, Cast-exclusive discounts and access to housing and transportation.

Related: My Dad Hadn’t Been to Disney World Since the ’80s—So We Planned an ’80s-Style Nostalgic Trip Back

The Disney Employee Perks Are Pretty Good, Too

Obviously, working where other people vacation has its advantages.

According to Disney Careers, full- and part-time Cast Members receive complimentary theme park admission after two weeks of employment. Depending on the position and eligibility, benefits may also include health and savings benefits, paid time off, childcare options, wellness programs and educational opportunities. Employees are paid weekly, too.

One of the biggest perks, however, might have nothing to do with Mickey Mouse.

Disney also offers tuition assistance, including Disney Aspire for eligible employees. In fact, Disney’s current Sept. 22 hiring-event listing says eligible hourly Cast Members may receive 100% upfront-paid tuition through the program.

Related: I Ditched My iPhone for a ’90s-Style Disney Vacation—And My Kids Actually Loved It

Why Disney Is Hiring Thousands of New Cast Members

The hiring plans come as Walt Disney World moves through one of its biggest periods of expansion in years.

Magic Kingdom alone is undergoing the largest expansion in the park’s history, with new Cars-themed experiences and the highly anticipated Villains Land in the works. Over at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, the new Tropical Americas land will introduce attractions inspired by Encanto and Indiana Jones, while Disney’s Hollywood Studios has a Monsters, Inc.-themed land on the way.

With that much happening across Walt Disney World, it’s safe to say the resort guests know today is going to look considerably different in the years ahead.

And for anyone who has ever wondered what it would be like to work behind the scenes at the Most Magical Place on Earth, this might be a very good time to start watching Disney’s job board.

Whether your dream involves keeping an attraction running, working in a Disney kitchen or helping guests have the vacation of a lifetime, thousands of new opportunities are expected over the next five years.

And yes, getting into the theme parks for free on your day off certainly doesn’t hurt.

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Nirvana, fronted by the late Kurt Cobain, released the smash hit “Smells Like Teen Spirit” in 1991, which not only became a grunge anthem but also earned recognition as one of the “Best Rock Music Videos of All Time.”

In a list unveiled by Collider, the publication recognized the 10 greatest music videos for their artistic, culturally influential and groundbreaking approaches that left a lasting mark on rock music.

Leading the ranking was Nirvana with “Smells Like Teen Spirit” at No. 1, described by the publication as “a song which took the rock genre and flipped it on its head with something fresh and filled with energy.”

Collider emphasized how the band’s music video became so legendary that, although it doesn’t rely on a complicated storyline, elaborate concept or heavy editing, the MV created a distinct aesthetic of its own while capturing the rebellious energy of the ‘90s.

Kurt Cobain and Krist Novoselic of Nirvana during MTV Live and Loud: Nirvana Performs Live 1993

Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic, Inc

Officially released as a single in 1991, the song quickly gained attention at a time when pop and rock radio was dominated by established mainstream acts.

At the time, “Smells Like Teen Spirit” was Nirvana’s highest-charting song on the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at No. 6, while reaching No. 7 on the U.K. Singles Chart.

Adding to the list, the song’s popularity also helped propel its parent album, Nevermind, to No. 1 on the Billboard 200, where it replaced Michael Jackson’s Dangerous.

As mentioned, it wasn’t just about the energetic, fast-paced music, Dave Grohl’s powerful drumming or the impressive guitar work, but also the video’s straightforward approach.

Directed by visual artist and filmmaker Samuel Bayer, the music video featured Cobain and his bandmates performing the song inside a high school gym, transforming the facility into a wild, chaotic spectacle of teenage rebellion.

According to the band’s late frontman, he was inspired by the classic movie Over the Edge and reportedly planned the video’s shot list beforehand.

“I saw this movie Over The Edge,” the late singer and guitarist told Melody Maker in 1993 via Louder, adding, “I remember leaving that theatre and almost everyone who was in there came running out screaming their heads off and breaking windows and vandalising and wanting to get high. It totally affected them and influenced them. It may not have been the intention of the person who made the movie, and it is a great movie, but that’s what happened.”

Decades later, “Smells Like Teen Spirit” continues to capture the attention of new generations of rock fans, with the music video surpassing two billion views on YouTube.

Related: 1983 Hit, Ranked Among ‘Greatest Songs of All Time,’ Was Written in a Rolls-Royce in California