Parade
McDonald's Is Giving Away Free Double Cheeseburgers on September 18 for National Cheeseburger Day
McDonald’s is giving away free Double Cheeseburgers on Friday, Sept. 18!
The chain is giving customers the opportunity to score the free item in celebration of National Cheeseburger Day.
Compared to the regular Cheeseburger, a McDonald’s Double Cheeseburger has two slices of American cheese, one on each patty, while the regular version has just one.
Here’s how to redeem your free Double Cheeseburger before the offer ends.
How to get a free Double Cheeseburger from McDonald’sCustomers can get a free Double Cheeseburger with a $1 minimum purchase on the McDonald’s App on Sept. 18 only.
The McDonald’s app is available on the App Store and Google Play.
😋😋 SIGN UP to get delicious recipes, handy kitchen hacks & more in our daily Parade Eats newsletter. 🍳🍔
More National Cheeseburger Day Deals AheadMcDonald’s isn’t the only chain doing a deal in celebration of the holiday! Here are more restaurants participating:
- Buffalo Wild Wings: Get BOGO free cheeseburgers on Friday with promo code BURGERDAY.
- Burger King: Rewards members can get a free Bacon Cheeseburger with a $3 minimum purchase for on Friday.
- Carl’s Jr.: Get 50% off any Carl’s Jr. burger with the purchase of any size shake on Friday.
- Dairy Queen: Rewards members can get a free single Original Cheeseburger Signature Stackburger with any app or online order of $1 or more through Friday.
- Five Guys: Through Sept. 18, score BOGO burgers when you order online or in-app and enter promo code BOGOBURGER during checkout.
- Jack in the Box: Get a free Jr. Cheeseburger with a $1+ order on Friday.
- Shake Shack: On Friday, get a ShackBurger or Cheeseburger for $5 when you enter promo code BURGERDAY at checkout in the app or in-restaurant.
- Sonic Drive-In: Get $1.99 Jr. Double Cheeseburgers on Friday.
- Wendy’s: Rewards members can get a Dave’s Single for $1.99 with an in-app purchase on Friday.
- Whataburger: Get a free Bacon & Cheese Whataburger Jr. with the purchase of medium fries or onion rings on Friday.
1969 Iconic Ballad, Written by Burt Bacharach, Is Still a Powerful Hit 57 Years Later
Fifty-seven years ago, singer Dionne Warwick released “I’ll Never Fall in Love Again”—a generational hit that defined her career.
Released on December 15, 1969, as the lead single and title track from her thirteenth studio album, “I’ll Never Fall in Love Again” became an instant classic. Upon its release, the track entered both the Billboard Hot 100 and Adult Contemporary charts, peaking at No. 6 and No. 1, respectively. In total, it spent 24 consecutive weeks charting on the mainstream tally, marking a defining triumph in her career.
Aside from chart dominance, the song experienced significant critical acclaim. At the 13th Annual Grammy Awards in 1971, “I’ll Never Fall in Love Again” won for Best Contemporary Vocal Performance, Female, marking her second Grammy Award.
Musicians Dionne Warwick, Norman Lear and Olivia Newton-John attend an event on June 14, 1974 in Los Angeles, California.Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images
Creating “I’ll Never Fall in Love Again”“I’ll Never Fall in Love Again” was written by composer Burt Bacharach and lyricist Hal David for the 1968 Broadway musical Promises, Promises. The track served as a duet between the two main characters, Chuck Baxter and Fran Kubelik, helping them connect while recovering from their respective romantic disappointments.
Having a long-standing creative partnership with Bacharach and David, Warwick recorded the song to help transform it from a stage tune into a mainstream radio hit. Produced by the songwriting duo, “I’ll Never Fall in Love Again” captured the song’s lyrical themes of disillusionment and heartbreak through its sophisticated arrangement. Paired with Warwick’s intimate vocals and breezy pop production, the single was launched seamlessly into the public consciousness.
Nearly six decades after its release, “I’ll Never Fall in Love Again” maintains its lasting popularity. On Spotify, the track has accumulated over 62 million streams, attesting to its status as a foundational ’60s vocal pop staple.
Related: 1974 Country Song, Written in 20 Minutes in a Nashville Closet, Became a Generational Hit
Terry Crews’ Wife Rebecca, 60, Shares Powerful Message Amid Parkinson’s Diagnosis
Celebrities are always in the spotlight — it’s a nonnegotiable part of fame, and a part of life that Terry Crews’ wife, Rebecca, is deeply familiar with. We talk about what they’re up to, what they’re wearing, and what projects they’re working on. An unfortunate side effect is that when they fall ill, their health becomes public domain, too.
Sitting down with Tamron Hall on Thursday, Rebecca King-Crews shared a fearless and intimate account of her experience living with Parkinson’s disease, which currently has no cure and progresses over time.
Terry Crews and Rebecca Crews arrive at the Gold House 5th Annual Gold Gala at The Music Center on May 9 in Los Angeles, California.People quoted her as saying that such a diagnosis can leave you with few options: “When you get a diagnosis like that, you have two choices: you can shrivel up and die and take to your bed and cry, and just be dead before you’re dead, or you can stand up and say, ‘I’m gonna live.’”
Diagnosed in 2015, Rebecca Crews is not the only famous person to live alongside this disease. Michael J. Fox, who was diagnosed in 1991, is also a vocal advocate for finding a cure. His Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research has funded an astonishing $3 billion in research since its founding in 2000, according to its website.
Michael J. Fox accepts the Bob Hope Humanitarian Award on stage during the 78th Primetime Emmy Awards held at the Peacock Theater on Monday.Rebecca Crews told Hall that Fox is “the warrior in the fight” toward a cure. His humor and can-do attitude have inspired her to continue sharing her experience and advocating for further research.
The disease affects the nervous system and causes debilitating symptoms like tremors, balance challenges and delays in initiating bodily movements.
Rebecca Crews and her husband continue to raise awareness about Parkinson’s, including by joining the Michael J. Fox Foundation’s 2026 Parkinson’s Unity Walk in Central Park, New York City, in May.
1976 Folk Song, Recorded in Two Victorian Houses in Toronto, Became a Major Billboard Hit
Gordon Lightfoot’s “The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald” became one of the biggest songs of 1976, reaching No. 2 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100.
What makes the song’s success unusual is how it was recorded. The six-minute-plus folk-rock ballad was made at Eastern Sound, a Toronto recording studio located inside two Victorian bay-and-gable houses at 48 Yorkville Avenue, per HMdb.
Lightfoot wrote the song to remember the 29 crew members who died when the SS Edmund Fitzgerald sank in Lake Superior on Nov. 10, 1975. The ship went down during a powerful storm, and the cause of the sinking remains uncertain.
The song first appeared on Lightfoot’s 1976 album Summertime Dream. It was later released as a single in August 1976 and climbed the charts during the months that followed.
Gordon Lightfoot hosts a benefit show in Canada.Photo by Doug Griffin/Toronto Star via Getty Images
According to Billboard, “The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald” debuted on the Hot 100 on Aug. 28, 1976. It reached its No. 2 peak on Nov. 20, 1976, and remained on the chart for 21 weeks.
Lightfoot began working on the song after learning about the shipwreck through news reports. He recalled that the tragedy had received only limited attention compared with its scale.
“The Edmund Fitzgerald really seemed to go unnoticed at that time. I felt I would like to expand upon the story of the sinking of the ship itself,” he said, per Guitar Player.
Lightfoot had a personal connection to the Great Lakes. He grew up in Orillia, Ontario, and later became an experienced recreational sailor. After reading reports about the sinking, he began gathering information and building the story into a song.
Lightfoot also used a melody influenced by an Irish folk song he had heard as a child. He took the subject seriously and spent months working on the lyrics. Some details in the original song were later changed as more information about the disaster became available.
One example involved a line about a hatchway collapsing. Investigators found information that challenged the idea that the ship’s hatches had been improperly handled. Lightfoot changed the lyric after hearing concerns from crew members’ families.
“I rewrote the line in order to avoid upsetting family members of crewmen that operated the ship’s hatches.”
The recording of “The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald” was almost an afterthought.
Lightfoot and his band were working on Summertime Dream at Eastern Sound in Toronto. By the time the band had completed the other songs planned for the album, studio time was still available. Lightfoot had not even properly introduced the new shipwreck song to his musicians.
The band members had never played the entire song together before recording it. According to Rolling Stone, studio engineer Kenny Friesen suggested that they use the remaining time to try the song. Lightfoot agreed.
The musicians then played the song for the first time as a group. Drummer Barry Keane had never played a note of it before that session. Lightfoot simply promised to give him a signal when it was time to enter.
The first take became the version used on the album. The band tried recording it again, but the later performances did not capture the same feeling. When the musicians listened to the takes, they agreed that the first performance was the strongest.
After the album was released, Warner Bros. began hearing reactions to the song from FM radio listeners. The label eventually decided to promote it as a single.
“The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald” reached No. 1 in Canada and No. 1 on the U.S. Cashbox chart. On Billboard’s Hot 100, it reached No. 2 for two weeks, behind Rod Stewart’s “Tonight’s the Night.”
Its success continued long after its original release. Following Lightfoot’s death in 2023, the song returned to Billboard’s charts, reaching the Hot Rock & Alternative Songs chart.
Lightfoot died on May 1, 2023, but “The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald” remains closely tied to the story of the 29 men who died aboard the ship.
Related: ’70s Rock Legend, Who Co-Founded Iconic Band, Was a New York Grade School Teacher
Walmart’s Mid-Century Modern Coffee Table Has a ‘Modern, High-End Look’ and Clever Hidden Storage
Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.
The right coffee table can anchor a living room, but it’s even more useful when it does more than give you a place to set down your coffee. A lift-top can create a more comfortable surface for eating or working from the sofa, while hidden storage gives you somewhere to tuck away everyday clutter. Add a mid-century modern design, and you get a practical piece that can also elevate the look of your space.
The Furtivusia Round Lift-Top Coffee Table checks all those boxes, and right now, the walnut finish is 45% off at Walmart, bringing the price down from $230 to just $127. The black finish is also discounted by 35%, bringing it to $150. Either way, you’re getting a versatile piece that can serve several purposes beyond a traditional coffee table.
Furtivusia Round Lift-Top Coffee Table, From $127 (was $230) at Walmart Shop at WalmartThe table has a fluted exterior that gives it a distinctive mid-century modern look. The vertical grooves add visual texture while keeping the overall silhouette clean and streamlined. At 31.5 inches long and wide and just under 16 inches tall when closed, it offers plenty of tabletop space without taking over the room.
The table is built from medium-density fiberboard and reinforced with a sturdy metal frame for additional support. It also comes with numbered parts and instructions to make assembly more straightforward, so you won’t have to spend hours figuring out which pieces go where.
The standout feature is the lift-top, which raises the tabletop from about 16 inches to 21.3 inches. That extra height brings the surface closer to you when you’re sitting on the sofa, making it easier to use your laptop, eat a meal, write, or enjoy a snack without having to hunch over. A hydraulic lifting mechanism helps the top move up and down smoothly.
Related: Walmart’s 5-Drawer Dresser Comes With LED Lighting and a Built-in Charger for Under $50
There’s also a hidden compartment underneath the tabletop, giving you a discreet place to store things you want nearby without leaving them scattered across the room. Use it for remote controls, magazines, snacks, blankets, or small decorative items. When everything is tucked away, the living room can look tidier without requiring another storage bin or cabinet.
One shopper wrote, “The walnut finish looks much more expensive than the price, and the fluted detail gives it a modern, high-end look. The lift-top works smoothly and the hidden storage is perfect for remotes, blankets, and random living-room clutter.” Another reviewer described it as “beautiful, especially for the price,” adding that it’s “super functional.”
- Galaxhero Lift-Top Coffee Table, From $80 (was $140) at Walmart
- Gelloan Round Fluted Coffee Table, $150 (was $330) at Walmart
- Gunaito Square Lift-Top Coffee Table, $93 (was $150) at Walmart
If you want a coffee table that combines a stylish silhouette with features that make everyday life a little easier, the Furtivusia Round Lift-Top Coffee Table is worth a look. And with Walmart’s current 45% discount on the walnut finish, you can save over $100 and get it for as low as $127.
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.
Psychologists Say This Common 'Caring' 5-Word Phrase Is Actually a Major Sign of a Toxic Family
Family is supposed to be our safe harbor, the one place in the world where we are unconditionally loved and accepted for exactly who we are. But for many people, interacting with family members doesn’t bring a sense of peace or comfort. Instead, it triggers a deep, familiar pit in the stomach. When you think of a toxic family dynamic, your mind might immediately jump to the explosive, screaming matches often depicted in movies and TV shows. But in the real world, dysfunction is rarely that obvious. It usually doesn’t arrive with slammed doors or shattered glass. More often than not, it creeps in quietly. It is subtle, insidious and confusing because it’s frequently masked as love and concern.
One of the most painful aspects of navigating a dysfunctional family is second-guessing your own reality. You might walk away from a conversation feeling drained, guilty or inadequate, but you can’t quite pinpoint why. After all, they said they loved you. They said they cared. But true love doesn’t leave you feeling trapped, anxious or suffocated.
Psychologists warn that one of the most common signs of toxic parents, siblings, etc., isn’t an outright insult or a blatant act of disrespect. It is a simple, seemingly sweet phrase that many of us have heard time and time again. When a family member says, “I’m just worried about you,” it might sound like the ultimate expression of care.
However, mental health experts reveal that this common phrase is often a major red flag for a highly manipulative dynamic designed to strip away your independence and keep you under their control.
Related: 10 Red Flags There’s a Narcissist in Your Family, According to Therapists
According to Dr. Patricia Dixon, a licensed clinical psychologist, “dysfunctional family dynamics” refers to an unhealthy system where interactions negatively affect individuals. While issues like addiction or neglect are obvious, the subtle patterns are the ones that quietly keep people trapped in cycles of guilt for decades.
In an Parade interview regarding the signs of toxic family dynamics, Dr. Dixon explained that the phrase “I’m just worried about you” is frequently used as a tool for guilt-tripping, disguised brilliantly as genuine concern.
Related: 8 Signs You Have a Toxic Mother and How To Heal—According to Psychologists
“Guilt-tripping can blur the lines between genuine care and manipulation, leading to confusion and resentment,” Dr. Dixon shared. When a parent or family member uses this phrase, they usually aren’t expressing authentic anxiety over your safety or well-being.
Imagine you tell your parent you are moving to a new city for a job opportunity, or you are finally setting a firm boundary around holiday visits. Instead of supporting your autonomy, they hit you with, “I’m just worried about you.”
Instantly, your healthy boundary feels like a betrayal. Your independence feels like you are actively hurting them. This emotional manipulation forces you to prioritize their comfort over your own growth, impacting your self-esteem and keeping you emotionally tethered to their expectations.
Related: 8 Signs You Have Toxic In-Laws and How To Respond, According to Psychologists
This type of disguised control doesn’t usually happen in isolation. Toxic family members often rely on a whole arsenal of passive-aggressive language that forces you to carry the weight of their unmanaged emotions.
This is echoed by Dr. Brittany McGeehan, Ph.D., in another Parade article exploring the phrases used by passive-aggressive parents. Dr. McGeehan noted that when parents use phrases like, “Oh, don’t worry about me,” they are actively projecting their adult issues onto their child, attempting to shame the other person into compliance. Just like “I’m just worried about you,” these comments breed an intense, unearned shame.
Dr. Dixon also pointed to another deeply toxic phrase that falls into the same category of control: “If you loved me, you’d do this.” This is a blatant weaponization of affection.
“Manipulation fosters dependency and stifles personal autonomy,” Dr. Dixon warned. When family members guilt-trip you into compliance, it leaves you feeling a heavy sense of obligation rather than a genuine, joyful connection. This can make it incredibly difficult to make confident decisions as an adult because your inner voice has been hijacked by your family’s manipulative scripts.
Related: If You Catch Yourself Doing These 10 Things, You Might Be Passing Down Generational Trauma, a Psychologist Says
Recognizing these toxic phrases for what they are—control tactics rather than care—is the first, deeply emotional step toward healing. It is incredibly painful to realize that the people who were supposed to nurture your independence are actively trying to suppress it. But once you can see the manipulation clearly, you can begin to step out of the fog.
Dr. Dixon emphasized that setting boundaries is absolutely crucial when dealing with dysfunctional dynamics with your relatives. Boundaries are not acts of cruelty; they are protective barriers that empower you to reclaim your emotional space. You are allowed to say, “I understand you are worried, but I trust myself to make this decision,” and then walk away from the conversation.
Related: People Who Break ‘Toxic Family Cycles’ Often Develop These 7 Rare Traits, a Psychologist Says
It’s also vital to remember that prioritizing your own mental health is not a betrayal of the people around you.
“Remember, sometimes you have to break away from the chaos to find clarity and peace,” Dr. Dixon said.
Seek out a therapist who can help you unpack these deeply ingrained patterns, and focus on forging relationships outside of your family unit. True family is often found in the people we choose—the friends and partners who support your growth without strings attached, and who want to see you succeed rather than feeling threatened by it.
Adapted from Parade’s “8 Red Flags in Family Dynamics You Shouldn’t Ignore, a Psychologist Warns” by Morgan McMurrin and “If You Heard These 7 Phrases Growing Up, You Were Probably Raised by Passive-Aggressive Parents” by Beth Ann Mayer
Up Next:
Related: Psychologists Say if You Were Told To ‘Toughen Up’ as a Kid, You Likely Have These 7 Traits
Sources:- Dr. Patricia Dixon, a licensed clinical psychologist
- Dr. Brittany McGeehan, Ph.D., a licensed psychologist
Best Replacement Windows on a Budget: Which Brands Give You the Most for Your Money?
Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.
If your windows are drafty, fogged between the panes or difficult to open, replacement can feel like an expensive problem on a long home-maintenance list. The cheapest quote, though, isn’t always the cheapest solution. A poorly fitted window can leave you with the same drafts, moisture problems and comfort issues you were trying to fix.
The best replacement windows for a budget-conscious homeowner balance price, energy performance, durability and installation quality. Several major brands offer strong value, but the right choice depends on your climate, the condition of your existing frames and what the installation includes.
To skip the guesswork and see what custom, energy-efficient replacements would cost for your specific home, schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with Renewal by Andersen today.
The best affordable replacement window brands include Simonton, Pella and Renewal by Andersen. Pella’s Encompass line is positioned as its most affordable vinyl option, while Simonton offers vinyl replacement windows with region-specific ENERGY STAR glass packages. The value of any brand ultimately depends on the specific window, installation and warranty included in the quote.
Brand or Line
Material
Budget Appeal
What To Compare
Pella Encompass
Vinyl
Pella identifies it as its most affordable vinyl line
ENERGY STAR performance, glass package, installation
Pella 250 Series
Vinyl
Midrange option with more features
Low-E glass, frame construction, available upgrades
Simonton
Vinyl
Broad range of replacement options
Regional ENERGY STAR package, warranty, installer
Renewal by Andersen
Fibrex® composite
Full-service replacement rather than a budget retail window
Custom fit, installation, glass package, warranty
The table isn’t a ranking of product quality. It illustrates why comparing only the manufacturer’s name or advertised window price can produce a misleading result.
Which window features are worth paying for?For most homeowners, energy performance is a better place to spend than decorative upgrades. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends choosing windows based on the climate where they will be installed and comparing U-factor and solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC). A lower U-factor means less heat transfer; SHGC indicates how much solar heat passes through the glass.
Start With ENERGY STAR and NFRC RatingsENERGY STAR-qualified windows are tested against performance requirements, while the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) label provides standardized ratings that make products easier to compare. Look at:
- U-factor: Lower generally means better insulation.
- SHGC: Lower values reduce solar heat gain, which is often useful in warmer climates.
- Air leakage: Lower values indicate a tighter window.
- Condensation resistance: Higher ratings indicate better resistance to interior condensation.
The ideal numbers aren’t identical for every house. A window designed for a hot, sunny climate isn’t necessarily the best choice for a cold-weather home.
Don’t Overlook the FrameVinyl is popular because it is relatively affordable and requires little maintenance. Fiberglass and composite frames can provide additional durability and thermal performance, but often come at a higher initial cost.
Renewal by Andersen design consultant Christopher LeBlanc says homeowners should weigh materials, energy-efficient features, window style and custom configurations against their budget rather than treating price as the only deciding factor.
Is the cheapest replacement window actually the best deal?Not necessarily. The window itself is only one part of the project. Installation quality affects whether a high-performance window delivers the performance shown on its label.
ENERGY STAR notes that even high-quality windows can be drafty when they are poorly installed. The Department of Energy likewise emphasizes proper installation when evaluating energy-efficient fenestration.
That makes the installed price more useful than the window-only price. When comparing quotes, ask whether each includes removal and disposal of old windows, interior or exterior trim work, permits (where required), labor and warranty coverage.
This is also where a low-cost quote can become less attractive. If the installer discovers deteriorated framing or water damage after work begins, the scope may change.
If you’re seeing moisture between panes, persistent drafts or damaged frames, getting an inspection before collecting quotes can prevent you from comparing the wrong repair options.
Related: Vinyl vs. Fiberglass Windows: What’s the Difference?
Replacement isn’t automatically the answer to every window problem. A broken balance, damaged hardware or failed screen may be repairable. A failed insulated-glass seal is also different from structural deterioration around the window.
Replacement deserves closer consideration when you have:
- Repeated condensation or fogging between panes
- Significant air leakage despite repairs
- Rot, water damage or deteriorated frames
- Windows that no longer open, close or lock properly
- Older single-pane windows with poor thermal performance
A professional inspection can distinguish a repairable component from a window that has reached the end of its useful service. Renewal by Andersen’s replacement process accounts for whether an opening is suitable for an insert replacement or needs a more extensive full-frame approach.
How can you get the most value from replacement windows?Start by identifying the windows that cause the biggest problems rather than automatically replacing every unit with the same configuration. Then compare complete installed quotes using the same window style, glass performance and scope of work. For homeowners watching costs, a sensible comparison should include:
- Window performance. Check the NFRC label and ENERGY STAR qualification for your climate.
- Installation. Confirm exactly what labor, removal, flashing, trim and cleanup are included.
- Long-term cost. Consider maintenance, warranty coverage and expected durability alongside the purchase price.
Renewal by Andersen
Professional window replacement from Renewal by Andersen can help you save money on your utility bills.
Should you get a professional window inspection before buying?Yes, especially when you aren’t sure whether the problem is the glass, frame or installation. An inspection can identify the source of drafts, condensation or water intrusion and establish whether repair or replacement makes more sense.
For homeowners comparing the best replacement windows on a budget, that assessment also gives you a more useful starting point for comparing quotes. Instead of shopping for the lowest advertised price, you can compare the products and installation needed for your particular home.
A budget replacement window that needs early repairs or delivers poor comfort isn’t a bargain. Conversely, paying more for features your home doesn’t need doesn’t necessarily improve the investment. Renewal by Andersen takes a full-service approach, including measurement, custom manufacturing, installation and cleanup. Schedule your free consultation and quote today!
Christine Taylor Once Believed Ben Stiller Was a 'Rebound' Romance: 'We Took a Big Leap'
Ben Stiller and Christine Taylor are one of Hollywood’s long-standing couples, but Taylor reveals they both initially had no plans to commit to a relationship.
The Dodgeball actor admits that having met Stiller and eventually dating him was a major turning point in her life. She explained in an interview with the We’re Still Here, Babes podcast that she and Stiller had hit it off immediately after meeting. While the two co-starred in Stiller’s cult classic comedy, Zoolander, they had met a few years earlier.
Taylor and Stiller met in 1999 while working on the unaired science-fiction TV pilot for Heat Vision and Jack. The series starred Jack Black, Owen Wilson, and Ron Silver, with Stiller directing. Taylor played the sheriff.
“That became the beginning of an entirely new chapter of my life, because Ben and I hit it off on the set,” she said. “We went on a date towards the end of the shoot, and then just kind of went on this whirlwind romance.”
She admits that while they hit it off, neither expected the relationship to become serious. In fact, Taylor had just come out of a relationship, with speculation likely leading to her one-year romance with Neil Patrick Harris.
“We both thought [it] was our sort of rebound romance, ‘cause I had just broken up with someone, and he was just getting out of something,” she explained. “We just were having fun, and just having a great time together. We kinda kept it on the down-low, it wasn’t like I was telling — I told my closest friends and family, but not my peripheral group of friends for a while.”
From believing it was a rebound romance to a future marriage, Stiller proposed to Taylor six months later. The couple soon began planning a wedding, and even started a family.
“We took a big leap. And then yeah, then we got married in May of 2000, and then I had our daughter the next year, and then we worked together a bunch. We did Zoolander together, we did Dodgeball together,” she said.
Taylor reveals that she had entered m a huge chapter of her life as a mother and wife, but began to question her identity. She wondered if she should still be an actor, or if she was better known as her daughter’s mother or Stiller’s wife. In the end, she did a lot of “real soul-searching” and decided to step back from acting to focus on her daughter. She makes clear she’s never actually retired as an actor.
Stiller and Taylor have been together since the 2000s, but it was announced that they separated in 2017. The couple later reconciled during COVID-19.
“We were just not on the same page with a lot of things and working so hard to try to make it fit, and make it right,” she explained, according to E! News.
Taylor adds that the pandemic gave them nothing but time, and they worked with a therapist while they put their marriage on pause. Their reconciliation was something that happened “organically and naturally.”
Iconic Retailer Is Making a Major Comeback With 120 New Stores
In 2018, Toys “R” Us closed its remaining U.S. stores after the iconic retailer filed for bankruptcy, seemingly bringing an end to an era for generations of shoppers.
Eight years later, Geoffrey the Giraffe is making quite the comeback.
Toys “R” Us announced on Thursday, Sept. 17, that it will open 120 new standalone stores across the United States during the 2026 holiday season through a partnership with Go! Retail Group.
The massive expansion will bring Toys “R” Us to 160 standalone stores nationwide by the holidays, up from 40 currently operating locations.
And these aren’t the Toys “R” Us sections that shoppers may have encountered inside Macy’s stores in recent years. The 120 additions are standalone Toys “R” Us locations, while the brand will continue operating its shops inside Macy’s stores nationwide.
“This is a major moment for Toys ‘R’ Us as we significantly expand our presence across the United States,” Jamie Uitdenhowen, executive vice president of Toys “R” Us at WHP Global, said in a press release.
“Together with our incredible partners, we are growing Toys ‘R’ Us in unique ways to meet customers wherever they are, whether that’s at a standalone store in their hometown, inside Macy’s, at the airport or at a Navy Exchange,” Uitdenhowen continued.
Toys ‘R’ Us will have 160 standalone stores by the holidays
The new stores are scheduled to arrive in time for one of the biggest toy-buying periods of the year.
According to Toys “R” Us, they’ll carry a curated selection of toys, collectibles and gifts from brands and franchises including LEGO, Barbie, Hot Wheels, Pokémon and KPop Demon Hunters.
Some locations will go beyond shelves of toys.
Select stores will include new Creator Studios, spaces designed for influencers, toy companies and other creators to make content, introduce products and hold launches and special events. Some stores will also have candy shops and cafés.
The company is expanding in some less conventional places, too. Toys “R” Us opened a shop-in-shop at Orlando International Airport in August, with a second Orlando airport location planned for summer 2027. The retailer also has locations through the Navy Exchange Service Command.
It’s another dramatic chapter for a brand that once appeared to be disappearing from the American retail landscape.
Toys “R” Us filed for bankruptcy in 2017 and closed its remaining U.S. stores the following year. The familiar brand subsequently began a gradual return to brick-and-mortar retail, including its partnership with Macy’s.
Now the comeback is getting considerably bigger.
“There’s something special about walking into a Toys ‘R’ Us store, especially during the holidays,” Go! Retail Group CEO Gideon Schlessinger said. “The excitement of discovering the hottest toys, seeing favorite brands and characters come to life, and finding that perfect gift.”
With 120 additional standalone locations on the way, millions more shoppers may soon have the chance to walk into a Toys “R” Us again.
Is Billy Joel Still Alive? 77-Year-Old's Publicist Makes Statement After Google Falsely Claims Death
Do not worry, everyone. The Piano Man is still alive.
A bizarre glitch in Google search results and knowledge panels showed that Billy Joel, the singer best known for his hits such as “Vienna,” “Piano Man” and “She’s Always a Woman,” had died Thursday, sparking countless worried posts over the past two hours.
His publicist Claire Mercuri quickly confirmed he is alive, fresh from emailing him, and the glitch was fixed. The scare followed recent news of his normal pressure hydrocephalus diagnosis and shunt surgery.
“Billy’s not dead,” Mercuri told Newsday and many outlets. “I was just emailing with him.”
Billy Joel attends The 21st Annual “Music Of” charity concert honoring Billy Joel at Carnegie Hall on March 12, 2026 in New York City.On top of his health issues, plus multiple deaths in the entertainment industry that have happened over the past month, including Dolly Parton, Tim Curry and Hayden Panettiere, many online were concerned.
A fan brought up on X: “ok did billy joel die or is wikipedia wrong?”
“why tf is @Google saying billy joel is dead hello ???” a concerned fan posted on X, along with the screenshot saying he passed away on Sept. 17.
“So did Billy Joel die or what??” another fan asked. “Why is Google saying Billy Joel is dead??”
“jesus christ please tell me billy joel isn’t dead im already having a bad day,” a fan tweeted.
After it was confirmed that Joel was alive, many were relieved. Though some fans were skeptical because no official news outlet confirmed the death except Wikipedia.
“It’s on Wikipedia, but I’m not seeing it on any reliable news outlets yet,” a user responded to someone else’s post.
“It’s been updated and publicist confirmed he’s not,” another user posted. “Let’s hope that’s really the case and they’re not just trying to cover it up for now bc ugh.”
“billy joel is still alive THANK GOD,” a user quote-tweeted.
Another fan shared the updated screenshot which doesn’t say Joel passed away, writing: “GUYS ITS OKAY THEY FIXED IT BILLY JOEL IS ALIVE.”
Billy Joel attends the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024 in Los Angeles, California.Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for The Recording Academy
This glitch concerned many, especially since the “Uptown Girl” singer has announced that he has been going through various health issues over the past couple of years. Joel publicly revealed his Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH) diagnosis in May 2025 after experiencing physical symptoms and a fall on stage. NPH is when an abnormal amount of fluid builds up in the brain’s ventricles, and it usually impacts balance and disrupts hearing, vision and coordination. As of now, he remains on an indefinite leave of absence from regular touring, prioritizing his health and recovery.
Born and raised in New York City, Joel has had a successful career as a musician since he released his album Piano Man in 1973. He has 13 studio albums out, with his most recent being Fantasies & Delusions in 2001. He spent his decade-long career touring all over the world (much of it with Elton John), and from 2014 to 2024, he had a consistent residency at Madison Square Garden, where he would perform at the iconic New York City venue once a month.
Music legend Billy Joel recently reassured fans that he is doing well and recovering after undergoing brain surgery for a rare neurological condition.
“I’m not going anywhere,” Joel told SiriusXM on Wednesday. “I’m here. I’m still here.”
Related: Jimmy Fallon Sends Strong Message To Billy Joel – ‘I Love Him’
Dolly Parton’s Country-Chic Pink Rolling Pin Makes Fall Baking Sessions Even More Fun
Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.
Dolly Parton fans have plenty of ways to bring the country icon’s colorful, joyful style into their kitchens. From her butterfly mixing bowls to colorful pie dishes, Dolly’s home collection is filled with pieces that celebrate her signature look. Whether you’re a longtime fan or simply love a cheerful kitchen accessory, there are plenty of fun finds to discover. Now, Wayfair has another cute pick for anyone who loves to bake.
The Dolly Parton “What Would Dolly Do” Rolling Pin is just $23 at Wayfair and brings a playful touch to everything from homemade pies to delicate tarts. And with fall baking season around the corner, this could be just the excuse to whip up a batch of cookies, roll out a pie crust, or make a homemade treat worthy of sharing.
Dolly Parton “What Would Dolly Do” Rolling Pin, $23 at Wayfair Shop at WayfairWhether you’re crafting croissants or prepping homemade pizza dough, this Dolly-inspired rolling pin is made for a range of baking projects. Its bright “What Would Dolly Do?” lettering pops against the pink background, giving it a cheerful look that stands out in the kitchen. The rolling pin measures 13.25 inches long (including the handles) and 2.25 inches wide, so you get plenty of room to roll out dough.
The rolling pin has a nonstick silicone surface for gliding smoothly over dough without sticking, ripping or tearing, making it a handy choice for everything from flatbreads to delicate pastry. The comfortable handles rotate 360 degrees, helping you roll across the dough with more control and even coverage.
And when the baking is done, cleanup is simple since it is dishwasher safe, though shoppers can hand wash it with warm, soapy water if they prefer. It also comes with a limited lifetime warranty for added peace of mind.
One shopper, a longtime Dolly fan, raved about the design and performance. “It’s not just pretty,” they wrote — it’s “super sturdy” and rolls smoothly in the kitchen, too.
Fans who want more of Dolly’s signature style can pair the rolling pin with other kitchen pieces from her home collection. Wayfair also sells a Dolly Parton Lazy Susan and Dolly Parton Butterfly Bamboo Cutting Board, offering a few more ways to add Dolly-inspired touches around the kitchen.
Shop More Deals- Ebern Designs 3-Piece Outdoor Rocking Patio Set, From $93 (was $250) at Wayfair
- Ophelia & Co Irim Solid Wood Vintage Vibe Accent Cabinet, $244 (was $400) at Wayfair
- Martha Stewart Copper Vines Cotton Reversible Queen Comforter Set, $79 (was $217) at Wayfair
Related: Dolly Parton’s Colorful $20 Lazy Susan Brings Farmhouse Charm to Any Room
For Dolly fans and baking enthusiasts alike, the Dolly Parton “What Would Dolly Do” Rolling Pin is a fun and practical pick for your baking routine. Grab it at Wayfair for just $23 while it’s still in stock!
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.
Country Music ‘Outlaw’, Who Survived a Nearly 500-Foot Fall, Reimagined One of His Biggest Hits to Become ‘Monday Night Football’ Anthem for 22 Years
If you’ve ever noticed that you rarely see country music “outlaw” Hank Williams Jr. without his signature shades, there’s a pretty remarkable reason why.
The dark sunglasses became part of his unmistakable look after the famous honky-tonker survived a staggering fall while climbing Montana’s Ajax Peak in 1975, suffering severe skull and facial injuries that required extensive reconstructive surgery.
Hank Jr. was just 26 years old when he slipped while climbing the mountain and plunged hundreds of feet down the mountainside. The accident nearly ended his life, and he spent the next two years undergoing multiple operations—even relearning how to speak and sing.
But the near-fatal accident also marked a turning point for the son of country legend, Hank Williams.
For years, he had been known largely for performing his famous father’s songs, stepping into the enormous shadow left by the country icon who died when his son was just 3 years old.
By the 1970s, however, he was determined to forge his own path—and sound—moving toward the Southern rock and outlaw-country musicians who would help shape his next chapter.
Then came the hike he’ll never forget.
After the estimated 440-foot fall, Hank Jr. emerged with a beard, dark sunglasses and cowboy hat that would become his signature look, but his music was changing course, too.
He returned to recording with a harder-edged Southern country-rock sound and eventually became one of the genre’s “rowdiest” voices, with hits including “Family Tradition,” “Whiskey Bent and Hell Bound” and “All My Rowdy Friends Are Coming Over Tonight.”
And that last song would eventually lead to something few artists could have predicted.
In 1989, ABC brought Hank Jr. aboard to create the opening for “Monday Night Football,” reworking “All My Rowdy Friends Are Coming Over Tonight” into the now-famous “All My Rowdy Friends Are Here on Monday Night.”
The opening became a fixture of the broadcast for 22 years, with Hank Jr. kicking off the show by asking the question millions of football fans came to know by heart: “Are you ready for some football?”
The unlikely football gig earned him four Emmy Awards and made his voice recognizable far beyond Nashville.
More than four decades after that terrifying fall—and decades after he first shouted his way into America’s living rooms—his story remains one of country music’s most remarkable second acts.
He’s still hitting the road too, even at age 77. Hank Jr. has two shows left on the docket for 2026, finishing off in Kansas City, Missouri with Joe Nichols and Colton Dawson.
A New Women-Only Trip Is Heading to One of the Most Remote Places on Earth
Pack your warmest parka, because girls’ trip just got a whole lot more adventurous.
Road Scholar just announced its first women-only Antarctica program, Spirit of Antarctica: Expedition for Women, a 15-day adventure created exclusively for female travelers in partnership with Aurora Expeditions.
And fittingly for a trip that requires a pretty major leap, it departs on Leap Day, February 29, 2028.
The adventure begins with two nights in Buenos Aires and one in Ushuaia before travelers board the Sylvia Earle, a purpose-built expedition ship named for pioneering marine biologist and oceanographer Sylvia Earle.
From there, it’s across the famously formidable Drake Passage to the Antarctic Peninsula, where travelers will explore by Zodiac and head ashore for hikes and landings among glaciers and icebergs, with opportunities to spot penguins, seals and whales along the way.
A women-only expedition to Antarctica offers opportunities to spot penguins, seals and whales along the way.Aurora Expeditions
What Makes This Antarctica Expedition Different?The biggest distinction is who’s leading the adventure. An all-female Expedition Team will run the show, from driving Zodiacs and leading hikes and shore landings to overseeing activities and delivering lectures onboard. Female guest speakers who have been pioneers in their respective fields will also join the voyage.
“There’s a special sense of camaraderie and belonging that happens when you have a group of women learning together,” Road Scholar’s Director of Program Management Eliza Carrera said in a press release announcing the trip.
Go ashore by Zodiac along the Antarctic Peninsula, searching for whales amid dramatic icy landscapes.Aurora Expeditions
And because this is Road Scholar, the experience isn’t just about checking the seventh continent off your bucket list. Education is woven throughout the voyage with an onboard library, interactive laboratory and programming led by the Expedition Team.
Limited to 24 participants, the Road Scholar group will have small-scale gatherings for socializing as well as a dedicated Group Leader throughout the journey.
Looking to make new friends? Roommate matching and single rooms are both available, so you don’t need to arrive with a travel companion to join.
Registration for the February 29, 2028 departure is open now, so if you’ve been waiting for a sign to finally take that bucket-list trip to Antarctica, a once-every-four-years departure aboard a ship named after a pioneering female scientist feels like a pretty good one.
Up next:
Who Won 'Jeopardy' Today? (September 17, 2026) Plus, the Final Jeopardy Answer
There are three things guaranteed in the world today: Death, taxes, and Jeopardy! being on. Believe it or not, the iconic game show has been on the air for over 60 years (though the modern incarnation we know and love technically debuted in 1984). Under the watchful eye of Ken Jennings (who himself was a record-breaking champion), Jeopardy! puts three people’s trivia skills and reflexes to the ultimate test. And so many of the greats to grace those podiums started by simply watching the show as it aired on weekdays, as millions have done for over half a century.
Here’s a spoiler-filled recap of who won Jeopardy! today, plus the answer to Final Jeopardy.
🎬SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬
Who won Jeopardy today? Mark RamirezJen Spinoglio was bested by Mark Ramirez, who won his first game, earning $20,800 as the new champ.
Who are the Jeopardy contestants today? Mark RamirezMark Ramirez is an executive communications lead from Northglenn, Colorado.
Christie RittenChristie Ritten is an actuary originally from La Grange Park, Illinois.
Jen SpinoglioJen Spinoglio is a financial researcher from San Francisco, California.
Related: Sam Heughan Surprises ‘Jeopardy!’ Fans With an ‘Outlander’ Category – Can You Answer the Clues?
What was Final Jeopardy today?Final Jeopardy today was in the category “TV ANNIVERSARIES“
The clue: “In 2025, this show celebrated its 40th anniversary, sadly without its 4 main stars, the last of whom passed away in 2021 at age 99.”
The answer: “What is The Golden Girls?”
The scores at the end of the DJ round found Ramirez in the lead with $20,800, followed by Ritten and Spinoglio at $9,600 and $2,800, respectively. All three players answered FJ correctly. Ramirez didn’t wager anything, but he remained in the lead, taking the title from 1-day champ Spinoglio, who ended in third place, adding a $2,799 wager for a total of $5,599. Ritten earned second place, wagering $2,400 for a final total of $12,000.
Ramirez will be back on Friday for attempt number 2.
Did you get the answer? Sound off in the comments!
When is Jeopardy on next?Jeopardy! will come back on September 18, 2026, with a new episode. Check your local listings to find out when to watch.
Where is Jeopardy streaming?Jeopardy! is available on both Hulu and Peacock. Subscribers can enjoy watching new episodes the next day, as well as access a vault of many classic episodes to enjoy at a moment’s notice.
Related: Ken Jennings Reveals If ‘Celebrity Jeopardy!’ Questions Are Easier
1977 Tom Petty Song, Reimagined by Chris Stapleton, Ranked Among ‘Greatest Songs of All Time’
Chris Stapleton stepped into the shoes of the late Tom Petty on Wednesday evening, Sept. 16, to perform a round of songs alongside the Heartbreakers as part of their special reunion during the Americana Honors & Awards Show, held at the historic Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, Tennessee.
While onstage, Stapleton — an eight-time CMA Male Vocalist of the Year winner — took the microphone to deliver a rollicking rendition of the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer’s 1977 classic “American Girl.”
RELATED: 1984 Country Classic, Recorded by Garth Brooks, Reimagined by Lainey Wilson at College GameDay
Backed by founding members Mike Campbell, Benmont Tench, Stan Lynch, and Ron Blair, Stapleton led the group through the song about a girl looking to escape and yearning for more out of life. He showcased his signature raucous country vocals on the tune while also playing guitar as shown in the YouTube clip below.
Solely written by Petty, “American Girl” appears on the Heartbreakers’ eponymous 1976 album, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. The track, surprisingly, didn’t top the charts in the U.S. But while it was never a No. 1 hit, “American Girl” has become a beloved tune in the group’s catalog, even ranking at No. 169 on Rolling Stone’s list of “500 Greatest Songs of All Time.”
The appearance marked the first time the original Heartbreakers lineup had performed together in 24 years, since their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The event was also the first time the group joined forces on stage since Petty’s death in 2017 at age 66.
Aside from “American Girl,” Stapleton played guitar on the band’s 1976 rock classic, “Breakdown,” and Petty’s 1995 solo song, “You Wreck Me,” with later Heartbreaker members, Steve Ferrone and Scott Thurston, stepping in to jam along onstage.
Petty’s daughter, Adria Petty, was also on hand to accept an award posthumously presented to the late icon by Stapleton.
“I don’t know if I could have seen anyone else play with the Heartbreakers and felt so much soul and trust in what he just did here tonight,” Adria said of Stapleton, according to Ultimate Classic Rock.
Dolly Parton, who passed away on Aug. 26, 2026, at age 80, was also the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award, as was Robert Plant.
1978 Donald Sutherland Movie, With a 93% Rotten Tomatoes Score, Ranked Among ‘Best Horror Movies of All Time’
Donald Sutherland’s 1978 horror movie Invasion of the Body Snatchers remains one of the highest-rated films in Rotten Tomatoes’ list of the best horror movies of all time.
The movie is listed at No. 60 on Rotten Tomatoes’ ranking of the 200 best horror movies of all time. It has a 93% Tomatometer score, and Rotten Tomatoes also places it at No. 9 on its list of the best horror movies of the 1970s.
Directed by Philip Kaufman, the 1978 movie stars Sutherland as Matthew Bennell, a San Francisco health inspector who discovers that something strange is happening to the people around him.
There are two movies called Invasion of the Body Snatchers. The first was released in 1956 and starred Kevin McCarthy.
Rotten Tomatoes describes the 1978 film as a powerful remake that expands on ideas that were only lightly explored in the original. The site also praises its gritty camerawork and evocative sound effects.
Canadian actor Donald Sutherland on the set of ‘Invasion of the Body Snatchers’Canadian actor Donald Sutherland on the set of Invasion of the Body Snatchers
The 1978 film was released on Dec. 22, 1978. It runs for about 1 hour and 55 minutes and blends science fiction with horror.
In Invasion of the Body Snatchers, Sutherland plays Matthew Bennell, a public health worker in San Francisco.
Matthew first hears concerns from his friend and co-worker Elizabeth Driscoll, played by Brooke Adams. Elizabeth believes that her boyfriend has changed. He looks the same, but she feels that something about him is no longer right.
At first, Matthew does not know what to make of her concerns. But more people begin to report similar changes in people close to them.
The strange events become more serious when Matthew and his friends discover evidence that people are being replaced.
The threat comes from mysterious pods. The alien creatures use the pods to create copies of humans. These copies look like the people they replace, but they do not have the same emotions.
Matthew and Elizabeth soon realize that they are facing a much larger danger. The invasion is spreading through San Francisco, and the people they know may no longer be the same people they were before.
Matthew becomes concerned as more people report that their friends and family members have changed. His fears are confirmed after Jack Bellicec and his wife discover a mutated corpse.
The cast also includes Leonard Nimoy as Dr. David Kibner, Veronica Cartwright as Nancy Bellicec, and Jeff Goldblum as Jack Bellicec.
The movie was directed by Kaufman, with a screenplay by W.D. Richter based on Jack Finney’s novel The Body Snatchers.
The movie’s cast helped strengthen that tension. Sutherland plays Matthew as he tries to understand what is happening while the number of pod people continues to grow. Adams plays Elizabeth, whose concerns help set the story in motion.
Goldblum and Cartwright also play important roles as Jack and Nancy Bellicec, friends who become caught in the growing crisis.
The movie also features a memorable appearance by Robert Duvall as a priest sitting on a children’s swing. Kaufman explained that Duvall was a friend, and he wanted a priest in the horror movie.
The 1978 Invasion of the Body Snatchers also helped establish itself as a notable science-fiction horror remake rather than simply a repeat of the 1956 movie.
'Wheel of Fortune' Fans Say This Contestant Made One Mistake That Cost Her Thousands
Wheel of Fortune fans could not believe that this player didn’t ride the Express Train fully, causing her to miss out on an extra $1,000.
Beth Malone, a single mother from Georgia, played against Erica Witherspoon from Michigan and Austin Rosen from Florida on Tuesday evening.
Malone solved “It’s Good to See You Again!” for $8,650. Witherspoon picked up the one-million-dollar wedge when she solved “Matt Damon Stars in The Odyssey,” which gave her $6,200.
With only three letters left in the puzzle to solve and a Wild Card won, Malone landed on the Express Wedge. The Express Train refers to the Express Wedge feature on the wheel, which lets contestants stop spinning the regular wheel and instead rapidly call letters for $1,000 per consonant until they solve the puzzle or make a mistake. She first called an “X”, then the train ride started. When the puzzle looked like “EXTRAORDINARY TEMPLE_,” she solved “Extraordinary Temples.”
Though Malone already won a trip to Cambodia and had a total of $28,300 at this point, Malone would have gotten an extra $1,000 if she had guessed the “S.”
“Celebrity Wheel of Fortune,” hosted by Ryan Seacrest and Vanna White, welcomes Kristen Kish, Action Bronson and Rashid Shaheed to spin the world’s most famous wheel in hopes of winning big money for the charity of their choice.Eric McCandless/Disney via Getty Images)
Many shared their reactions to that specific round on Reddit and X.
“Don’t solve when riding the train until you fill everything in!” one said.
“Especially because the category was “landmarkS” so the S should have been automatic, not to mention being one of the common letters you should always call up front,” a viewer responded to the comment above.
“Wish they’d get rid of the train entirely,” another fan said. “The players don’t understand it. They skip it for no reason half the time, then don’t understand how it works when they do ‘hop on’. It’s infuriating.”
“why does it drive me nuts when they hit a big $ amt and only go for one letter when there are two on their that they can get more money or maybe they didn’t know the puzzle?” another viewer asked. “Can’t recall who or what the puzzle was now or when there are letters up there but they have no $ and decide to solve it?”
A viewer posted on X: “For Wheel of Fortune fans only. Two critical gameplay rules: 1) Never call a vowel if you KNOW a consonant. 2) Always ride the Express.”
The TV game show “Wheel Of Fortune” celebrates its 25th anniversary at Radio City Music Hall on September 27, 2007, in New York City.Though Malone lost out on an extra $1,000 due to a mistake, she still ended up taking a lot of money. By the end of the game, the Georgia-based contestant won $30,300 in cash and prizes, including a trip to Cambodia.
“That’s ok!” Malone said during the broadcast. “It was a good day.”
Wheel of Fortune is a long-running American television game show where contestants solve word puzzles to win cash and prizes by spinning a giant carnival wheel. The game show was created by Merv Griffin in January 1975, and has been on the air since. Combining the traditional pencil-and-paper game of hangman with the thrill of a spinning roulette-style wheel marked with cash amounts, prizes, a “Bankrupt” wedge that loses all cash and turns, the “Express Train” and a “Lose a Turn” space.
Ryan Seacrest currently hosts the program alongside co-host Vanna White, following long-running previous hosts like Pat Sajak and Chuck Woolery. Wheel of Fortune started its 44th season this week and can be streamed on Hulu, Peacock or Philo every weeknight.
Related: ‘Wheel of Fortune’ Announces Season 44 Switch-Up in Game Format
Skechers' Pretty Scalloped Knit Slip-ons Are ‘Cute’ and ‘Comfortable’ for Fall
Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.
If you’ve been looking for stylish shoes that are comfortable enough to wear while traveling, running errands, or enjoying a long walk, these Skechers slip-ons are worth a closer look. The Wilshire Blvd Knit Sail Slip-Ons combines a lightweight, breathable knit design with an easy slip-in silhouette, and they’re currently on sale for over 30% off at Amazon.
Originally $70, the popular shoes are now on sale for as low as $48. The off-white color currently has the steepest discount, but you can also shop it in black, blue, and mocha styles starting at $67. Sizes range from 5 to 11, including half-size options up to 9.5.
Skechers Wilshire Blvd Knit Sail Slip-Ons, From $48 (were $70) at Amazon Shop at AmazonThese Skechers slip-ons are made for everyday comfort. The stretch-fit crochet knit upper has a scalloped trim and offers a flexible feel that moves with your foot, while the breathable construction makes them an ideal choice for long days on the go. They have a removable air-cooled memory foam footbed that provides a cushioned feel all day long, whether you’re traveling, working or running errands around town.
The slip-on design also makes these shoes easy to get on and off, while the dainty laces at the top allow you to loosen or tighten the fit to your preference. A 1.5-inch wedge heel provides a subtle lift without feeling overly formal, and the rubber traction sole provides extra grip as you move across different surfaces.
The knit slip-on shoes have earned over 350 five-star ratings from Amazon shoppers, who called them “really cute” and “incredibly comfortable.” Multiple reviewers also praised the comfortable footbed. One reviewer said they’re “super easy to slip on, and the arch support is perfect,” while another said they offer “good cushioning and support” for all-day wear.
Shop More Deals- Clarks Juliet Palm Loafers, $42 (were $85) at Amazon
- Clarks Kaetlyn Rhea Loafers, From $70 (were $95) at Amazon
- Vicki Platform Wedge Sandals, $30 (were $36) at Amazon
With their breathable knit construction, a cushiony feel, and several cute colors to choose from, these Skechers slip-ons are an excellent addition to any shoe collection. Grab a pair for up to 30% off before the Amazon sale ends.
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.
6 Years Ago: 98-Year-Old Became the Oldest Primetime Emmy Winner
On Sept.15, 2020, Norman Lear made television history at the age of 98.
The legendary television writer and producer became the oldest Primetime Emmy Award winner after Live In Front of a Studio Audience: ‘All in the Family’ And ‘Good Times,’ won the Emmy for Outstanding Variety Special (Live) during the second night of the virtual Creative Arts Emmy Awards.
Lear was 98 years and 50 days old when he received the award, according to Guinness World Records. The win also allowed him to break a record he had set only one year earlier.
In 2019, Lear became the oldest Emmy winner at age 97 after winning the same category for Live in Front of a Studio Audience: Norman Lear’s ‘All in the Family’ And ‘The Jeffersons.’ His 2020 victory pushed the record even further.
Norman Lear attends the Declare Yourself Hollywood Turns 18 party at the Beverly Hills Cultural Arts Center on Sept. 27, 2007 in Beverly Hills, California.The award was another major moment in a television career that had already lasted for decades. Lear had created some of the most well-known sitcoms in American television, including All in the Family, Maude, The Jeffersons, Good Times, Sanford and Son and One Day at a Time.
Norman Lear’s Historic Emmy Win in 2020The 2020 Emmy win came during a special time for television. The Creative Arts Emmy Awards were held virtually because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Lear was recognized for the live television special that brought stars together to perform scenes from classic sitcoms he helped create. The special featured All in the Family and Good Times, two shows connected to Lear’s long television career.
At the time, Lear was already 98 years old. Yet he remained active in television and continued working on new projects.
His Emmy record was not the only milestone surrounding his 98th birthday. Lear turned 98 on July 27, 2020, and spent the day in Vermont with his family, including his six children and four grandchildren.
On his birthday, Lear shared a message about gratitude.
“My morning thought on my 98th birthday is where can I go out and dig a mind deep enough for the gratitude I feel, or how high can I fly to reach a place that meets the deepest amount of gratitude I feel?” he said. “If you’re watching this this long, I’m grateful to you for that, too. And my morning thought is … each man is my superior, each woman also my superior, in that I may learn from him and her.”
Just days later, Lear spoke about getting older and the passing of time.
“Good morning! So this is the day after my 98th birthday,” he began. “It was my birthday yesterday. I’m into my 99th year, and it feels remarkably like my 98th year, which felt remarkably like my 89th year. I don’t know, it’s all the same.”
Lear also talked about being closer to saying goodbye to the people he loved.
“I can’t help, however, realizing I’m closer to that time when goodbyes are in order, I realize I’m not concerned about the going, I just don’t like the leaving,” he admitted. “And yesterday so solidified that, because I was with all my six kids and grandkids, and surrounded by all the love I receive, all the love I feel.”
“Leaving is hard. The thought of leaving is hard,” he added. “But the adventure of going remains to be seen. I’ll get back to you.”
View this post on Instagram Norman Lear’s Television LegacyLear’s historic Emmy win was closely tied to a career that changed American television.
His television career began in 1950 when he and writing partner Ed Simmons worked on The Ford Star Revue. They later wrote for Jerry Lewis and Dean Martin on The Colgate Comedy Hour.
Lear also wrote for movies. In 1967, he received an Academy Award nomination for Divorce, American Style.
His biggest television breakthrough came in 1971 with All in the Family. The sitcom followed the Bunker family and used comedy to explore major issues facing American society. Its success led to several spin-offs, including Maude and The Jeffersons.
Lear later created Good Times, which focused on an African American family in Chicago. The show dealt with subjects such as poverty, drug use, and crime.
He also created One Day at a Time, which followed a divorced mother raising two teenage daughters while trying to make ends meet. Sanford and Son became another major success after Lear adapted the British series Steptoe and Son for American television.
Lear’s work continued long after his most famous sitcoms ended. As he approached 100, he worked on a Latina-led version of One Day at a Time and helped produce live specials based on All in the Family and The Jeffersons. He also hosted the podcast All of the Above with Norman Lear.
His list of honors included six Emmy Awards, two Peabody Awards, the National Medal of Arts, and the Kennedy Center Honors. In 2017, he became the oldest recipient of the Kennedy Center Honors at age 95.
Lear died at his Los Angeles home on Dec. 5, 2023, at age 101. His death came more than three years after his record-setting Emmy victory.
Related: Beloved Jordan Peele Film Ranked ‘Best Thriller Movie’ of the Past 10 Years
'I’m an Oncologist—This Is the First Thing I Check on Every Food Label'
It can seem like the grocery store is full of healthy foods that can lower—or at least not contribute to—your risk of developing cancer. Take a look at the front of a label, and you’ll see claims like “no added nitrates” and “healthy.” These days, brands often focus on protein and fiber because those nutrients are trending. But the back of the label tells a truer tale about how healthy a food is and whether it might help (or hurt) your cancer odds.
“The front of a package is designed to market the product, so claims…don’t necessarily tell the whole story,” states Dr. Ted A. James, MD, MHCM, FACS, a system physician executive at Endeavor Health Cancer Institute and an oncologist. “The ingredients list and Nutrition Facts label show what is actually in the food, including sodium, preservatives, added sugars and other ingredients.”
According to Dr. James, the big takeaway is to look beyond a single marketing claim and evaluate a food as a whole. Speaking of “whole,” he suggests taking a big-picture look at your cancer risk. Diet is part of it (but not all of it).
“Diet is one factor that influences cancer risk, along with genetics, physical activity, body weight, smoking and alcohol,” he tells Parade. “The foods and beverages consumed can affect processes in the body, including inflammation, hormone levels and exposure to compounds that may damage cells and DNA.”
For this reason, Dr. James scans labels and checks for this one ingredient, which research suggests might increase cancer risk. He recommends that his patients do the same.
🩺SIGN UP for Parade’s health newsletter with expert-approved tips, healthy eats, exercises, news & more to help you stay healthy & feel your best self💊
‘The First Ingredient I Check on Every Food Label as an Oncologist’Dr. James says he checks food labels for sodium nitrate and sodium nitrite, chemical preservatives used in some foods to give them a longer shelf life and maintain color and flavor. He points out that research has raised concerns about the potential role that sodium nitrate can play in cancer risk.
Which foods have sodium nitrate and sodium nitrite? Dr. James says you can often find these additives in cured and processed meats, such as:
- Bacon
- Ham
- Hot dogs
- Sausage
- Salami
- Pepperoni
- Deli meats
- Jerky
“When nitrites in processed meat react with other substances during cooking or digestion, they can form compounds called nitrosamines,” Dr. James says. “Some nitrosamines can damage cells and DNA, which may increase the risk of cancer over time.”
Dr. James notes that researchers believe this could explain why processed meat is associated with a higher risk of cancer. However, he notes that other processing methods, like curing, smoking and salting, could also be factors.
Related: Never Rely on This One Factor Alone To Protect You From Cancer, Oncologists Warn
Can I Never, Ever Have Foods With Sodium Nitrates?Dr. James suggests avoiding foods with sodium nitrates as much as possible.
The goal is not perfection or fear, but making informed choices about food and its potential impact on cancer risk,” he says. “Research has not established a specific amount of processed meat that is considered low-risk for cancer.”
Dr. James reports that groups like the American Institute for Cancer Research recommend “little, if any” processed meats because of their association with cancer risk. For this reason, he points out that processed meats labeled “nitrate-free” won’t necessarily eliminate cancer concerns because the processing itself may play a role.
“Products labeled ‘nitrate-free’ or ‘uncured’ may also contain vegetable-based sources of nitrates, such as celery powder, which can still lead to the formation of compounds that may damage cells,” he says.
If you’ve been eating foods like hot dogs and other red or processed meats, don’t panic.
“Eating processed meat and consuming sodium nitrates in the past does not necessarily mean cancer will develop,” Dr. James says. “However, it is never too late to make healthier changes, so the focus should be on choices going forward, including choosing healthier food sources more often to reduce cancer risk in the future.”
Related: Oncologists Say This Is the #1 Cancer Risk Factor No One Talks About
On that note…
What Foods Lower Cancer Risk?The good news is that you can still get plenty of protein without loading up on red and processed meats (whether or not they have sodium nitrates).
Good alternatives to processed meats are:
- Beans
- Lentils
- Fresh fish
- Fresh chicken
- Fresh turkey
- Nuts
- Seeds
- Tofu
“Choosing these protein sources more often can reduce reliance on processed meat and support a more plant-forward eating pattern,” Dr. James says. “The goal is not simply to find a ‘nitrate-free’ replacement for bacon or deli meat, but to include a greater variety of whole or minimally processed foods.”
Up Next:
Related: Oncologists Are Begging People To Throw Out This Item in Their Bathroom Cabinets
Source:- Dr. Ted A. James, MD, MHCM, FACS, a system physician executive at Endeavor Health Cancer Institute and an oncologist
- Nitrites and nitrates from food additives and natural sources and cancer risk: results from the NutriNet-Santé cohort. International Journal of Epidemiology.
- Nitrites in Cured Meats, Health Risk Issues, Alternatives to Nitrites: A Review. Foods.
- Limit Consumption of Red and Processed Meat. American Institute for Cancer Research.
