Parade
Shailene Woodley’s Stylist Blasts Critics After Actress’ Polarizing Emmys Look Divides Fans
Shailene Woodley’s Emmys outfit divided the internet, but her stylist is standing by her work.
Karla Welch, who styled Woodley for the 2026 Emmys, responded on Threads after the actress’ unconventional Balenciaga ensemble became a major talking point following Sunday’s ceremony.
“Love or hate something fine but it’s an opinion and it can even be a conversation but being super rude and mean and taking glee from it, well that says a lot more about the mouths it’s coming from. 🖤,” Welch wrote Tuesday, September 15.
The stylist, whose celebrity clientele also includes Olivia Wilde, Karlie Kloss, Sarah Paulson, Justin Bieber, and Hailey Bieber, hasn’t exactly backed away from the controversial look, either. A day later, on Wednesday, she proudly shared a photo of Woodley on the Emmys red carpet on Instagram alongside an image reading, “Trigger Warning.”
“We ♥️ pppiccioli 🌹,” Welch added, referencing Balenciaga creative director Pierpaolo Piccioli.
Fans were quick to chime in, yet again.
“Sometimes when we go Christmas tree shopping on the farm I see those spray painted trees and think, well someone will appreciate them but it’s not for me. That’s the closest to an opinion I can come to about this,” one wrote in the comments.
“So your behind this…” another quipped.
A third replied, “Karla we love you, but No. Not this one. Sorry!” while a fourth said, “You’re hilarious at least you’re standing behind your choice…”
READ MORE: Emily Blunt and John Krasinski’s Rarely Seen Daughters Look Just Like Their Famous Mom in New Pics
Woodley’s head-turning outfit came straight from Balenciaga’s Fall 2026 Haute Couture collection and consisted of a low cut periwinkle top paired with embellished gold pants and burgundy opera gloves. She finished the ensemble with a colorful gemstone necklace.
Fashion wasn’t the only reason Woodley found herself making headlines during Emmys weekend. Her former fiancé Aaron Rodgers recently made several claims about their past relationship on the Not Just Football podcast, including alleging that Woodley told him she wanted to sleep with another man after they became engaged.
Woodley hasn’t publicly responded to the allegations. When a reporter asked her about Rodgers while she attended a pre-Emmys event in West Hollywood on Sunday, she laughed, smiled and continued walking without answering.
DWTS' Adele Zaikman Breaks Silence After Shocking First-Episode Elimination
Dancing With The Stars pro Adele Zaikman is speaking out for the first time after being eliminated in season 35’s premiere episode.
The Tuesday, Sept. 15, premiere episode saw the first-time pro and her celebrity partner, The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives’ Conner Leavitt, eliminated after they scored a 12 out of 30 for their Salsa to “Whoomp! There It Is!” by Tag Team.
The elimination came during the first night of the two-night premiere. The female celebrities and their professional dance partners will perform on Wednesday, Sept. 16.
On Wednesday, Zaikman reflected on her and Leavitt’s short time together in a tribute posted to Instagram.
“My heart is so full of gratitude🤍 @leavitt.conner, thank you for trusting me through this experience,” Zaikman wrote. “Watching you step outside of your comfort zone and seeing that spark come alive in you was truly the greatest gift. I only wish we had more time, I was so excited for everyone to see our Jive in week two and to show even more of the amazing partner I got to see every day.”
The dancer then reflected on her dream of becoming a Dancing With the Stars pro, which she earned earlier this year by winning the DWTS spinoff The Next Pro. The series featured 12 talented up-and-coming dancers competing through a grueling audition process for the coveted spot. For some fans, Zaikman’s elimination was especially shocking given everything she went through to earn her place on the series.
“Dance has given me so much throughout my life. I’ve been fortunate enough to compete around the world and achieve things I once only dreamed of, but being a part of Dancing With The Stars has always held such a special place in my heart,” she continued. “Although our time together ended sooner than we hoped, I’m so grateful that my journey in this ballroom continues. I get to keep dancing, creating, and being part of a show I’ve dreamed about, and I don’t take a second of it for granted.”
Zaikman concluded, “Thank you for every vote, message, and ounce of love you gave us. And Conner, thank you for being the best partner I could have asked for. Forever grateful for this chapter. 🤍.”
RELATED: Whitney Leavitt Speaks Out After Husband Conner’s ‘DWTS’ Elimination
Zaikman’s The Next Pro castmates also made an appearance during the premiere, with Selena Hamilton, Allen Genkin, and Erik Linder joining her to perform a Salsa bumper to “Dai Dai” by Shakira.
The second night of the DWTS premiere will air on Wednesday, Sept. 16, at 8 p.m. ET/PT on ABC and Disney+.
🪩 SIGN UP for our Dancing with the Stars newsletter to get access to exclusive news, interviews, songs, recaps & more 🪩
1960s Folk Legends Hit YouTube 17 Years After Frontwoman’s Death, Reviving a Beloved Song
Peter, Paul, and Mary are back in the news. Just days before the 17th anniversary of Mary Travers’ death, a new YouTube channel dedicated to the legendary folk trio launched on Sept. 4, bringing the band’s iconic music back into the fold and introducing the trio to an entirely new generation.
Following a battle with leukemia, Travers died on Sept. 16, 2009. She was 72. Later, in January 2025, Peter Yarrow, the group’s other founding member, died at 86. Today, Paul Stookey, now 88, is the trio’s sole surviving member, but despite two-thirds of the group leaving the world, the music of Peter, Paul and Mary has hardly disappeared.
View this post on Instagram🎬 SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬
Among their most recognizable recordings is a 1963 hit that has been interpreted in ways its creators never intended for more than six decades. It’s also the most recent song uploaded to their YouTube channel, complete with a new lyric video.
That song is, of course, “Puff the Magic Dragon.”
A chart-climbing hit that peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100, the track contains lyrics that listeners have interpreted for decades as references to marijuana. Despite Yarrow and lyricist Leonard Lipton repeatedly rejecting that interpretation, some fans still believe the song’s “puff,” “dragon,” “Jackie paper,” and “autumn mist” are coded drug slang.
In reality, the song is about something much more innocent. According to Yarrow, Lipton wrote the original poem as a teenager in 1959, with Yarrow later setting it to music. Yarrow and Stookey maintained that the track is purely about the loss of childhood, imagination, and the pains of growing up.
“It was not intended to be a lyric of a song or anything; it was just something that he typed on paper, and I looked at it and loved it,” Yarrow said. “I wrote the rest of the words to give it a song form and a dramatic arc, and the music to it.”
Rumors that the song was secretly about marijuana began circulating soon after its release, including in a 1964 Newsweek article about supposed hidden drug messages in popular music. Years later, in 1970, Vice President Spiro Agnew added “Puff, the Magic Dragon” to his list of songs he considered part of the drug culture.
“It was spurious news reporting,” Stookey said. “The first time I heard of it was a Newsweek article that said, ‘It is reported that …,’ which, of course, is impossible to defend against. Because it was untrue and an interpretive concept, you can make anything out of anything if you want to.”
Released in January 1963, “Puff, the Magic Dragon” featured on the group’s second studio album, Moving, which climbed to No. 2 on the Billboard 200. The song was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Recording for Children in 1964. The group had already won two Grammys for their debut album in 1963 and would eventually win five Grammys total.
As today marks the first anniversary of Travers’ death since Yarrow’s passing, the new YouTube channel offers another way for Peter, Paul and Mary’s music to reach listeners who weren’t around when the trio first made it famous.
Related: 1966 Signature Song, Written in 10 Minutes, Launched a Country Queen to No. 1
‘MasterChef: Global Gauntlet’ Winner Revealed: Who Won Season 16?
It was night two of the MasterChef: Global Gauntlet finale for the remaining three home cooks as the competition to win the grand prize of $250,000 and the trophy awarded by host/judge Gordon Ramsay, judge Joe Bastianich and judge Tiffany Derry wound up.
Tonight, the three finalists — Peter Egede, Heidi Muston and Jake Kelley — continued cooking the entrée and dessert portions of the competition, which would determine who would be the new MasterChef.
Here’s our spoiler-filled recap of the MasterChef: Global Gauntlet finale, including who won Season 16.
Who Won MasterChef: Global Gauntlet? Jake KelleyPhoto credit: FOX
Jake KelleyRepresenting: Mexico
Current Residence: Mount Pleasant, MI
Representing: Nigeria
Current Residence: Dallas, TX
Representing: South Africa
Current Residence: Plantation, FL
Related: MasterChef’s Tiffany Derry Reveals the Biggest Mistake Contestants Keep Making (Exclusive)
Here’s how the finale broke down:
Entrée Round:Heidi: Venison Tenderloin with Madagascar Green Peppercorn Sauce, Goat Cheese Stuffed Zucchini Blossom and Parsnip Purée
Jake: Holy Mole: Pan-roasted Duck Breast with Mole Poblano, Mexican Red Rice, Truffles and Cilantro Lime Sauce
Peter: Suya-spiced Beef Filet with Tamarind Sauce, Plantain Purée, Plantain Chips and Scotch Bonnet Relish
Dessert Round:Peter: Spiced Coconut Mousse, Hibiscus Gel, Chocolate Husk, and Passion Fruit Gel
Heidi: Mirror Glazed Marula Liqueur Mousse with Brownie Crumble, Raspberry Coulis and Pistachio Dust
Jake: Sweet Corn Profiterole with Blueberry Coulis, Roasted Corn White Chocolate Ganache, Chanterelle Ice Cream and Freeze-Dried Corn Soil
After much deliberation, Gordon announced that the winner of MasterChef: Global Gauntlet was Jake.
“This is everything to me,” Jake said. “This is the biggest achievement of my life. I feel so fortunate to have my parents, the way they raised me to always do my best, and to shoot for the stars. I owe everything to them. This is really that confirmation I have been looking for that I can turn my passion into my career.”
MasterChef: Global Gauntlet is currently streaming on Hulu.
Next, MasterChef Returns With an International Theme for Season 16 in 2026 — What to Know
Whitney Leavitt Speaks Out After Husband Conner's 'DWTS' Elimination
The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives‘ Whitney Leavitt is speaking out for the first time since her husband, Conner, was eliminated first on Dancing With the Stars.
The Tuesday, Sept. 15, premiere episode saw Conner and his professional dance partner, Adele Zaikman, eliminated after they scored a 12 out of 30 for their Salsa to “Whoomp! There It Is!” by Tag Team.
The elimination came during the first night of the two-night premiere. The female celebrities and their professional dance partners will perform on Wednesday, Sept. 16.
On Wednesday, Whitney took to Instagram to pay tribute to Conner’s short-lived time on season 35. Whitney herself competed on DWTS last year, placing sixth with her partner, Mark Ballas.
“Conner, I am so proud of you 🤍 I hope you never let this ending take away from what you just did,” the Broadway star wrote alongside a photo of the pair in Conner’s DWTS trailer. “You stepped so far outside of your comfort zone, worked your ass off, put yourself out there, and went for it. People can have their opinions, but I know you. They’ve only seen a fraction of what you’re capable of. And I can’t wait for them to find out!”
“I hope this lit a fire in you! Keep saying yes. Keep putting yourself out there. Keep going after the things that scare you,” she added. “F–k the noise and go after whatever you want next baby! Sedona, Liam and Billy are so proud of their dad 🥹 I’m so proud and lucky to be your wife, and I hope you’re so fucking proud of yourself too! This is just the beginning, babe 🤍.”
View this post on InstagramZaikman also paid tribute to Conner, writing on Instagram, “Thank you for trusting me through this experience. Watching you step outside of your comfort zone and seeing that spark come alive in you was truly the greatest gift. I only wish we had more time, I was so excited for everyone to see our Jive in week two and to show even more of the amazing partner I got to see every day.”
Conner and Whitney have been married since 2016—and renewed their vows for their 10-year anniversary this summer—and share three children: Sedona, 6, Liam, 4, and Billy, 1.
The second night of the DWTS premiere will air on Wednesday, Sept. 16, at 8 p.m. ET/PT on ABC and Disney+.
🪩 SIGN UP for our Dancing with the Stars newsletter to get access to exclusive news, interviews, songs, recaps & more 🪩
1981 John Travolta Film, Ranked Among the Best Movies of the ‘80s, Is Still a Hit Thriller 45 Years Later
The ’80s weren’t just an era of great music, but also of unforgettable films. John Travolta starred in a Brian De Palma mystery thriller that initially flopped but went on to develop a cult following years later.
Blow Out was ranked on GQ’s list of the “Best American Movies of the 1980s,” with a list of entries that are considered part of the “golden age of studio blockbusters.” GQ’s list has an entry for every year of the decade, based on genre. The 1981 film Blow Out was tagged as the best neo-noir of that year, with James Caan‘s Thief coming in at a close second.
De Palma based the film on Italian film director and writer Michelangelo Antonioni‘s 1966 film Blowup, which in turn was inspired by Argentine-French writer Julio Cortázar‘s 1958 short story “Las babas del diablo.”
Travolta starred as Jack Terry, a sound technician from Philadelphia working on a low-budget slasher film called Co-ed Frenzy. He’s instructed by the film’s producer to obtain more realistic screams and wind sounds, and he ventures to a local park. Things take a turn when Jack believes he’s recorded audio evidence of an assassination.
He starred in the film alongside Nancy Allen as Sally Bedina, with John Lithgow and Dennis Franz in supporting roles. De Palma actually considered Al Pacino for the main role of Jack before it ultimately went to Travolta.
According to reports, Travolta intended to make a different thriller with De Palma about a man trying to steal Howard Hughes’ Spruce Goose. When he pitched the idea to the director, he was already working on Blow Out. Travolta read the script and was on board.
“I read Blow Out and it took over my thriller. I abandoned that project, at least for the time being, because I was so pleased with the result of Blow Out,” said Travolta.
The film wasn’t a major success upon its release. It only made $13.8 million against its $18 million budget. While it received little audience interest, it did get positive reviews from critics. Critic Robert Ebert commented that the film “is inhabited by a real cinematic intelligence. The audience isn’t condescended to … we share the excitement of figuring out how things develop and unfold, when so often the movies only need us as passive witnesses.”
The thriller received an 88% score from Rotten Tomatoes and would develop a bigger cult following years after its release.
Christie Brinkley, 72, Stuns on the Runway: 'We Still Don't See Enough of Us Represented'
Christie Brinkley is turning heads at age 72. The iconic model recently walked the runway for the first time in nearly a decade, and fans can’t get enough of her.
Brinkley sashayed down the catwalk during the Dennis Basso Spring/Summer 2027 show at New York Fashion Week, strutting to her ex-husband Billy Joel’s legendary track ‘Uptown Girl.’
Basso posted a pic on Instagram of Brinkley closing the show in a glam nude, off-the-shoulder design with crystal accents, writing, “What a day to finale my show with the beautiful, talented and lovely @christiebrinkley the original uptown girl = DB Girl.”
View this post on InstagramBasso’s “Uptown Girl” thanked the designer, responding to the post with, “I had the best time…From the first fitting where I got to see you drape and sculpt the fabric into the gorgeous gown I was so lucky to wear to close your magnificent show! You are such a light and fabulous ball of good energy, the whole project was a joy to be part of!”
Brinkley also posted a clip of herself on Instagram, captioning the video with a statement on aging in the fashion world: “One more to say thank you to @dennisbasso for giving this honor to a 72 ½ year seasoned woman…we still don’t see enough of us represented,” adding a shout-out to her ex, “And to @billyjoel for my theme song that’s been played on many happy occasions.”
View this post on InstagramFans and family flocked to Brinkley’s post, praising the model and gushing over her performance in Basso’s show. “Golden Mamacita! Forever vivacious & gorgeous,” wrote Brinkley’s eldest daughter Alexa Ray Joel, while her youngest kiddo, Sailor Brinkley-Cook, added a string of heart-eye faces and, “You’re the cutest, I love you.”
Of course, the comments didn’t end with Brinkley’s daughters. Her fans responded with, “Absolutely beautiful, stunning, graceful! I see no difference whatsoever at age 25, 45, 72. You are gorgeous! Your soul shines through!”, “Forever beautiful”, “Most beautiful woman inside and out,” and “So beautiful. Timeless.”
In the early 1970s, American photographer Errol Sawyer discovered Brinkley in Paris. After signing with Elite Models and later the Ford Model Agency in New York City, she quickly rose to fame, becoming the face of CoverGirl in 1976.
The model’s storied career includes three consecutive Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue covers in 1979, 1980, and 1981, hundreds of magazine covers, several high-profile ad campaigns for popular brands like Diet Coke, one of the most memorable roles in National Lampoon’s Vacation, and a stint on Broadway as Roxie Hart in Chicago. She last walked the runway for Elie Tahari in February 2019, modeling alongside her daughter Sailor at New York Fashion Week.
Robert De Niro’s Best Movie According to Critics Is a Surprising 1985 Cult Classic With a Kate Bush Connection
Robert De Niro has been giving movie fans plenty to talk about after appearing on The Good Hang podcast, where conversations about his career naturally bring up the question: What is his best film? Many viewers would probably choose Taxi Driver, Raging Bull, Goodfellas or The Godfather Part II. But Rotten Tomatoes’ critics-based ranking points to a much more unexpected answer: Brazil, the 1985 cult classic directed by Terry Gilliam.
Critics Chose a Very Different De Niro Movie @moviewarspodcastThe legendary actor Robert De Niro had become so accustomed to carrying films, and his stardom had risen so high by the mid-1980s—following Taxi Driver, The Godfather Part II, and Raging Bull—that he initially wanted a larger role in Brazil. He had hoped to play Jack Lint, but when that part went to Michael Palin, he still wanted to be involved and took on the small yet memorable role of Harry Tuttle. Even with limited screen time, De Niro’s portrayal of the rogue heating engineer remains one of the film’s most iconic performances—not to mention an infinite source of humor in this boisterous black comedy thriller. Brazil (1985) is owned by Universal Pictures and Embassy International Pictures, and the footage used in this reel falls under fair use for commentary, criticism, and educational purposes. #robertdeniro #godfather #actor #actors #director #filmtok #movietok #movie @Mozart Gabriel
♬ Very Sad – EnchanThe ranking is based on Rotten Tomatoes’ Tomatometer, which aggregates reviews from professional film critics. It is not a fan vote or an audience ranking, making the result even more surprising. Critics have placed Brazil above the movies most closely associated with De Niro’s legacy as one of Hollywood’s greatest crime drama and psychological thriller actors.
De Niro’s career is often connected to intense performances, his longtime creative partnership with Martin Scorsese and his unmistakable New York persona. Brazil is a very different kind of movie. The dystopian science fiction black comedy stars Jonathan Pryce as a mild-mannered government employee caught in a bizarre world of bureaucracy, malfunctioning technology and impossible rules. De Niro appears in a memorable supporting role as Harry Tuttle, a rebellious repairman who works outside the system.
Related: 2006 MySpace Discovery Helped Launch One of Country Music’s Biggest Bands
The Robert De Niro Performance You Might Not Expect @gream.spaceCelebrating 40 Years of “Brazil”: Robert De Niro’s Role in Saving the Film Join Robert De Niro as he takes a trip down memory lane on ‘The Late Show with Stephen Colbert’, discussing his involvement in the cult classic “Brazil”. Discover how his connection to the producer helped save this iconic film from being shelved. Brazil40Years RobertDeNiro FilmHistory#trending #entertainment #gream
♬ original sound – gream.space – gream.spaceIt is hardly the first movie most people would name when discussing De Niro’s greatest work—and that is what makes the ranking so intriguing. Even in a supporting role and in a genre far removed from his usual screen image, De Niro creates a character that has stayed with audiences.
The movie also has an unexpected music connection. Composer Michael Kamen recorded a version of the song “Brazil” featuring Kate Bush on vocals. Her recording was not included in the finished film, but it was later released through subsequent soundtrack editions, giving fans a fascinating glimpse at the movie that might have been.
That Kate Bush connection adds a little extra emotional pull to a film already being rediscovered through De Niro’s current pop-culture moment. As fans revisit his work following his Good Hang appearance and look ahead to his next movie, Brazil offers a fresh reminder that his legacy is not limited to the roles everyone already knows by heart.
🎬SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox🎬
Blake Shelton Returns to ‘The Voice’ in Surprise New Teaser
Blake Shelton isn’t done with The Voice just yet.
The country star, 50, is making a surprise return to his old stomping grounds as part of The Voice’s 30th season celebration, according to a new teaser shared by the show on Instagram.
“There’s an old sheriff in town,” a voice says in the background of the clip, with the text on the video reading, “Blake is back!”
View this post on InstagramExactly what that means remains a mystery. The behind-the-scenes footage shows Shelton walking on set and embracing fellow original coach Adam Levine before joining him and his wife, Gwen Stefani, at a roundtable. Additional footage offers glimpses of Shelton around the set, but doesn’t reveal what role he’ll play in the celebration.
“We’re ready to break the internet 🤠,” The Voice captioned the post, telling viewers to tune into its 30th Season Celebration on NBC on September 17.
And break the internet they did. Fans were ecstatic about the news.
“Definitely need Blake, Gwen and Reba back,” one fan wrote.
Another said, “Now that Blake’s back I’ll watch it again.”
“Well yall might get me to watch if Blake returns,” replied a third.
READ MORE: Blake Shelton Blasts Fellow Country Star and His Wife
Shelton was one of the four original coaches when The Voice premiered in 2011 and remained in his red chair for 23 seasons before leaving in 2023.
Season 30 is coming back to the show’s roots in other ways, too. Levine and Kelly Clarkson are returning as coaches alongside newcomers Queen Latifah and country singer Riley Green, with Carson Daly continuing as host.
The milestone season is also bringing back a major piece of the show’s original format: live shows. After Season 29 went without them, TV Insider reports that Season 30 will feature six weeks of live competition with viewers voting in real time to determine which singers advance.
The Blind Auditions are getting an update as well. The familiar Block has been replaced with a new First-In button that can automatically secure a singer for the first coach who turns.
Season 30 officially premieres September 21 on NBC.
1972 Career-Saving Hit, Written by David Bowie, is Ranked One of the Greatest Songs Ever
1972 was not an easy year for Mott the Hoople. The English band hadn’t seen a terrible amount of success and were ready to split apart entirely. Creativity had pretty much run dry until an angel of artistic innovation visited them, and that was David Bowie. Bowie had previously offered them his song “Suffragette City,” which they rejected. Newly desperate, they decided to take Bowie up on his second offer when he gave the band “All The Young Dudes.”
“All The Young Dudes” of course would go on to become the band’s biggest hit, and the one that would define them for the rest of their career. It’s one of the most important songs of the glam-rock movement, being an undoubtable hit that is a perfect representative of its genre. The song has a legacy that has long outlasted the band, with it being ranked at the 166 spot on Rolling Stone’s “500 Greatest Songs of All Time” list.
I heard the song again for the first time in a while recently, and I was struck by how clearly Bowie the song is. The influence from his writing bleeds into the sound of the track. It’s absolutely channeling Ziggy Stardust-era Bowie with nasally vocals and super glam instrumentals.
Lyrically the song explores youth, and all the triumphs and perils held within that. The refrain of the song’s title during the chorus is an exuberant and youthful cheer that I find myself always swaying my head to whenever it comes on. It’s an absolutely iconic piece of ’70s popular rock.
Thought the song categorized the band as somewhat of a “one hit wonder,” it was absolutely a triumphant moment for them as a group. In their darkest hour, they emerged with their biggest hit: a song that defined the decade and has endured for generations to come.
🎬SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox🎬
NFL Legend Rob Gronkowski Shares Message About His Second Career
Rob Gronkowski revealed the spicy revelation he had while starting his second career as a sports analyst for Fox Sports.
Best known as “Gronk,” the 37-year-old former athlete was an NFL tight end for the New England Patriots for nine seasons, then joined the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for his last two. Regarded as one of the greatest tight ends of all time, he is a four-time Super Bowl champion and was selected to the NFL 2010s All-Decade Team and NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team.
Gronkowski was a guest on Sean Evans’ YouTube show, Hot Ones, where celebrity guests answer questions while eating 10 chicken wings with hot sauces that get increasingly spicy. This is his second appearance on the talk show, and he spent most of the interview talking about his high school athlete days, career highlights, his “Gronk-O-Meter” and his friendship with Tom Brady.
One of the questions Evans asked was if there was anything Gronkowski didn’t fully understand about media members and journalists as a player that he now understands as an analyst behind the microphone.
“There’s a lot that you need to learn,” he answered honestly. “You think it’s kinda easier when you’re looking from the outside in, but it’s really not that easy.”
Gronkowski made his debut as an NFL sports analyst for FOX Sports on October 10, 2019, during a Thursday Night Football pregame show. He left the role during the 2020 and 2021 seasons to play for the Buccaneers, but then returned in October 2022, following his permanent retirement as a professional athlete.
“You got to present with knowledge, and sometimes your instinctual movements are just created to do what you do out on the football field that you don’t even think about,” Gronkowski continued. “I used to just go on the field and just do it, you know? So you got to actually explain it now, and that’s where it gets a little bit more difficult. I like to have that personal gimmick where it’s kind of just explaining it to, like, a fifth grader.”
Rob Gronkowski #87 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers walks off the field after defeating the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium on January 02, 2022 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Buccaneers defeated the Jets 28-24.Gronkowski was born and raised in New York state into a family of athletes. His dad was a football player for Syracuse University, while his great-grandfather was a cyclist for the United States team during the 1924 Summer Olympics in Paris. He played hockey and basketball before becoming a football player in high school. His success on his high school’s football team led him to play for the University of Arizona, but during his junior year, he suffered a back injury, which lowered his chances in the NFL draft.
In 2010, he was drafted by the Patriots for the upcoming season. He immediately became a success for the team and was a fan favorite all over the country. Gronk remained on the team until 2019, retiring at 29 years old due to physical and mental health issues.
A little over a year later, he decided to come out of retirement in April 2020 and join the Buccaneers, where he was reunited with his Patriots teammate Brady. He played for Tampa Bay for two seasons before officially retiring in June 2022. In October, he returned to FOX Sports as a full-time analyst.
“I just want to explain the game how I see it, very easily, and don’t make it more difficult than it needs to be,” Gronkowski concluded.
Fans can watch Gronkowski work as an analyst on Fox every Sunday during the NFL season. The 2026 season kicked off last Wednesday, with the Seattle Seahawks defeating the Patriots. 14 different games will be taking place all across the country this Sunday throughout the day.
Related: Travis Kelce Named Victim in $35 Million Ponzi Scheme Fraud
Danielle Colby Is Returning to 'American Pickers' After Declaring Series Is 'Done'
Danielle Colby just confirmed her return to American Pickers after declaring in December 2025 that the series was “done” after Season 27.
On Wednesday, Sept. 16, the History Channel star took to Instagram with a photo of herself, Mike Wolfe, Robbie Wolfe, and Jersey Jon.
🎬 SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬
“I’ve missed my road dogs,” Colby captioned the update, also tagging the three men. “Now we get to do it all again, let’s make it the best time yet. Let’s go!!!!! @americanpickers @antiquearchaeology.”
In the comments, fans celebrated seeing the American Pickers stars all together again. One Instagram user wrote, “Gettin’ the band back together.”
Another wondered, “Wait, the show is coming back.”
Someone else predicted, “Another series?? 😁.”
A different follower declared, “Safe travels & happy pickin’ ❤️.”
Meanwhile, yet another Instagram user exclaimed, “Happy for you!”
In his own Instagram post, Mike sharedd, “My crew and family from day one—grateful to be back with these brilliant humans & making new episodes of @americanpickers together!”
View this post on InstagramIn December 2025, Colby posted a video via Instagram talking about starting a business dedicated to the history of burlesque, the Ecdysiast Arts Museum in Davenport, Iowa.
She described the career move and turning 50 as an “epic crossroads,” explaining, “So I already have that plan in motion. But now is the time where I like have to, like, fully dig in and commit to this plan that I have laid out. And without the financial support of American Pickers, it’s going to be a wild one.”
That’s when Colby bluntly declared, “And I just found out that American Pickers is done.”
In a different video posted shortly afterward, she clarified, “Mike called me yesterday. It was one of those things that he reminded me we’re never over. Things are always still happening. Things are always still going. My perspective was more from a paycheck standpoint.”
Mike also confirmed in December, “@americanpickers is still on the landscape for new shows. I can’t wait for you guys to experience the stories from the road and the people that have uncovered some epic pieces.”
Most recently, new episodes of American Pickers aired in April. Parade reached out to the History Channel for comment about Season 28, but did not immediately hear back.
Next: American Pickers’ Mike Wolfe Shares Rare Comments About Frank Fritz After His Death
This Might Be the Most Unexpected Spa Experience of the Year
Forget goat yoga. Cows are apparently the wellness gurus we should have been following all along.
This fall, Stonyfield Organic opened what it calls the first-ever Organic Cow Spa, a limited-time wellness experience at Rainbow Valley Farm in Maine inspired by the care organic dairy cows receive.
Yes, the treatments are for humans. And yes, cow cuddling is involved.
The quirky concept is tied to a surprisingly specific rule of organic farming, however. Under USDA organic standards, ruminant livestock must be managed on pasture during the grazing season, which must be at least 120 days per calendar year. During that time, they must also receive at least 30 percent of their dry matter intake from grazing pasture.
In other words, those organic cows are getting a lot of fresh air and Stonyfield thinks humans could take a cue.
Related: Moo-ve Over Cowmedians, These 180 Cow Puns Are Udderly Hilarious
Why Does This Cow-Inspired Spa Cost Exactly $120?Because Stonyfield really committed to the theme. The Organic Cow Spa costs $120, a nod to that 120-day grazing requirement, and runs from Sept. 10 through Oct. 3.
The experience starts with a Cow Cuddle Session, where you can cozy up to some of the farm’s organic cows. And as delightfully random as cow cuddling may sound, there may be something to the trend.
According to Psychology Today, the practice is believed to have roots in the rural Netherlands and has since spread to farms and animal sanctuaries around the world. The appeal goes beyond getting an adorable photo: Cows’ serene demeanor and slow, deliberate movements may have a soothing effect on humans, while spending quiet time petting or simply sitting beside them can encourage mindfulness and help you stay present in the moment.
The article also notes that positive physical interaction with animals can be associated with the release of oxytocin, a hormone involved in social bonding and stress regulation. In other words, cuddling a cow might be more than an extremely cute way to spend an afternoon.
From there, you’ll head out on a Meditation Trail, a short farm walk inspired by the freedom organic cows have to roam and graze. Think less treadmill, more “touch grass”—literally.
Then it’s time for the treatments. Settle in for a massage and scalp massage, inspired by the grooming and brushing cows receive, with optional peppermint aromatherapy—a nod to the essential oils used with cows at some Stonyfield direct-supply farms. Then go all in with a foot-care experience inspired by the hoof-care routines that help keep cows comfortable and mobile enough to roam and graze.
There’s also a Rest & Relaxation Corner, a pasture-inspired meditation and journaling lounge designed for slowing down, breathing deeply and channeling the carefree energy of a cow hanging out in a field because, why not?
Last but not least, since this is still a wellness retreat in 2026, there’s obviously a green juice involved—a cheeky nod to the grass and pasture that play such an important role in an organic cow’s diet.
So if your fall could use a little more fresh air, fewer screens and some udder relaxation, you know where to graze. Reservations are open through October 3 at stonyfieldorganiccowspa.com.
Up next:
Related: 8 Wellness Trips Every Woman Over 50 Needs, According to Experts
1984 Film, With Links to Bob Seger and Stevie Nicks, Ranked Greatest Rock and Roll Movie of All Time
In the summer of 1984, Prince was everywhere. His new film, Purple Rain, premiered on July 27 and immediately topped the box office. A week later, the motion picture soundtrack reached No. 1 on the Billboard 200, joining “When Doves Cry,” which had already climbed to the top of the all-genre chart. For the first time, an artist had simultaneously nabbed the No. 1 movie, album, and single in the U.S.
Now, more than four decades later, the romantic rock musical drama is back in the spotlight, with Consequence naming Purple Rain the greatest rock and roll movie of all time.
🎬 SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬
View this post on Instagram“Sure, it’s an imperfect film,” the outlet wrote, “but in a way that’s part of what makes Purple Rain the consummate rock and roll movie.”
The film certainly had all the ingredients. A semi-autobiographical story follows Prince as The Kid, a self-destructive Minneapolis musician struggling to make his way while competing with rival performer Morris, played by Morris Day, and navigating his relationship with Apollonia, played by Apollonia Kotero.
But Purple Rain was more than a showcase for Prince. It was an ambitious attempt to turn an increasingly famous musician into a movie star and to translate his music into a story audiences could experience on the big screen.
“Whether or not Purple Rain revealed who ‘The Kid’ really was, it did reflect several familiar musician-driven dynamics,” Consequence continued, pointing to band drama, club owners, rivalries, desire, and despair.
The idea for the movie began with Prince himself. He wanted to star in a feature film and spent months developing the story’s bones. His manager, Robert Cavallo, commissioned screenwriter William Blinn to turn the musician’s ideas into a screenplay. Blinn’s original script, then titled Dreams, was considerably darker than the movie that eventually reached theaters, with relatively new director Albert Magnoli substantially reshaping the story.
The gamble the three were making was considerable. Prince had never starred in a feature film, Magnoli was making his feature directorial debut, and the project centered on music that was still pushing Prince into new territory.
Journalist Alan Light later described the musical challenge as particularly significant, explaining to NPR that the early 1980s music world remained heavily divided between Black R&B and rock audiences, and Prince was attempting to cross those boundaries.
“The music world of the early ’80s was heavily segregated,” Light said. “Black music existed in a ‘post-disco isolated space’ and rock ‘n’ roll in another.”
Prince, however, was already looking for a way across that divide. And the surprising inspiration came from another Midwestern rock star: Bob Seger.
While on his 1999 tour in 1982 and ’83, Prince found himself following Seger into arenas around the Midwest. He was fascinated by the massive crowds Seger could draw and wanted to understand why the rocker had such a powerful connection with them.
According to Light, Prince asked keyboardist Matt Fink about Seger’s appeal, and Fink pointed to the songs that could fill an arena without anything flashy. He said Seger’s big ballads, including “We’ve Got Tonight” and “Turn the Page,” got people going.
Prince took the lesson to heart and set out to write his own arena-rock power ballad. The first sketch of “Purple Rain” dates back to December 1982, long before the movie was filmed.
That makes the song’s origin story especially revealing. The musician who would soon become synonymous with one of the most distinctive sounds of the 1980s was, in part, studying how a Detroit-born rocker connected with America’s heartland and trying to figure out how to do it himself.
The result would become the emotional centerpiece of Purple Rain. But Prince wasn’t finished experimenting.
He first sent the song to Stevie Nicks, asking her to write lyrics for it. She declined, telling him the song was too much for her. Later, Prince became concerned that the song’s chord progression sounded too similar to Journey’s “Faithfully,” prompting him to contact Journey keyboardist Jonathan Cain to make sure he wasn’t crossing a line.
Related: 1983 Song, Written on a Napkin, Ranked Journey’s Greatest Hot 100 Hit
Eventually, “Purple Rain” became exactly what Prince had set out to create: an arena-sized ballad capable of reaching far beyond his existing audience. And the movie gave it an even bigger stage.
Purple Rain opened July 27, 1984, and topped the box office. On Aug. 4, the soundtrack reached No. 1, with “When Doves Cry” still at the top of the Hot 100. “Let’s Go Crazy” would later reach No. 1 as well, while “Purple Rain” peaked at No. 2.
By then, the experiment had worked.
The unlikely movie Prince had fought to make had become a cultural phenomenon, and the song he created after studying Bob Seger’s arena appeal had become one of the defining performances of his career.
As Consequence put it, “As if this flick left any doubt.”
Related: 1970 Drama, Featuring 4 Tammy Wynette Songs, Is Just as Powerful 56 Years Later
1969 Johnny Cash and Linda Ronstadt's Duet, Almost Canceled by June Carter Over a Wardrobe Crisis, Was Wildly Unexpected
The Johnny Cash Show had been on the air for exactly two weeks when Johnny Cash booked 22-year-old Linda Ronstadt as a guest. It was June 21, 1969. The show was taped at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville. June Carter Cash sat in the house watching every rehearsal. Ronstadt had just put out her debut solo album Hand Sown … Home Grown. She arrived for rehearsal in a very short dress with nothing underneath. June noticed immediately.
June sent someone running to the nearest department store. According to hairstylist Penni Lane, “June noticed that Linda didn’t have any panties on, so she came running back to the dressing room saying, ‘Somebody get down the street and buy her some bloomers. She’s out there showing herself.'” Someone there ran to Cain-Sloan department store in Nashville and came back with a pair of underwear. When Ronstadt was told she’d have to wear it, her response was, “I sing better bare-butted.” June’s response: “Not in front of my Johnny.” Ronstadt put on the underwear. The show went on.
What Cash and Ronstadt produced when they finally got to the stage was something neither the wardrobe crisis nor the television format could have predicted. His baritone and her soprano found each other in the Ryman, and it sounded less like a TV performance and more like two people discovering a song for the first time. You can see Cash smiling at her. He knew exactly what had transpired just before the cameras began to film.
Here’s what nobody mentions. The song they performed — “I Never Will Marry” — is about a woman who throws herself into the ocean because her lover’s gone. June Carter Cash sent someone to buy Linda Ronstadt underwear so she could sing a song about drowning for love with June’s husband. And here’s the part that makes it even better. “I Never Will Marry” was first recorded by the Carter Family in 1933 — June Carter Cash’s own family. June nearly canceled Ronstadt’s performance with her husband of a song her family made famous — on national television.
The Song That Survived June CarterEight years later, Ronstadt recorded “I Never Will Marry” for her own album Simple Dreams — this time with Dolly Parton on backing vocals. It was the first time they ever recorded together. The Trio albums with Emmylou Harris came later, but this is where it started. Simple Dreams knocked Fleetwood Mac‘s Rumours off No. 1 after Rumours had held that spot for 29 weeks. It also knocked Elvis off the top of the country chart. Asylum Records released “I Never Will Marry” as a single in April 1978. Nine years after the Cain-Sloan run, it was on the radio.
Some things are worth fighting over. June Carter would probably agree.
🎬 SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬
JCPenney's Beautiful Autumn-Inspired Bedding Set Is Under $70
Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.
There’s no better feeling than when it’s officially time to decorate for fall. If you’re pulling out all of the stops as soon as the crisp breeze hits, then you may want to start with refreshing your pillows, bedding, and living room decor. Thanks to JCPenney, you can now bring all of the seasonal cheer to your home with the Avanti Grateful Patch Reversible Quilt Set, which is now 20% off.
The set originally cost $87, but has been reduced to $70 ahead of the change in season. Make sure to use the promotional code SAPPHIRE when you’re checking out to receive the lowest sale price. The quilt is available in twin, full/queen, and king sizes all at the same price — so you can easily snag a few sizes for different rooms to really get into the fall spirit. The two-piece set includes one standard sham and one quilt in the same pattern.
Avanti Grateful Patch Reversible Quilt Set, $70 (was $87) at JCPenney Shop at JCPenneyThe quilt features a gorgeous green plaid print at the bottom and top of the design, which feels so effortlessly cozy and luxurious. The bedding has a white base in between the plaid layers, which is decorated with moody pumpkins and colored leaves. We think that the distressed graphics actually make the bedding look vintage, which makes it the perfect option for cottagecore and farmhouse-style homes. The best part about this quilt is that it’s also reversible, so you essentially get two quilts in one.
The quilt set is made entirely of polyester, so you can easily place it in the washer and dryer. Just make sure to read the care instructions carefully so that you don’t accidentally shrink it. Otherwise, the midweight set is easy to maintain and will keep you warm throughout the chillier autumn nights. Since it’s not too heavy and not too light, it’s the perfect option for those who want to stay cozy but are prone to overheating.
Shoppers described the style as “so pretty,” “beautiful,” and “fun.” Since the sham displays large pumpkins, they really make a statement, so you don’t necessarily have to go overboard with other fall decorations in the room. If you want to spruce things up, though, we think the quilt’s pattern would look super cute with a fall wreath above it or next to a vase filled with fall-colored leaves.
Shop More Deals- Liz Claiborne Hoop Earrings, $4 (was $12) at JCPenney
- Liz Claiborne Ultra-Fit Performance Sheet Set, $40 (was $100) at JCPenney
- Loloi Lydia Woven Scatter Accent Rug, $15 (was $42) at JCPenney
It’s never too early to decorate for the season. This adorable reversible quilt set is the perfect way to get started — especially since it’s on sale for nearly $20 off. Shop the home offering at JCPenney before it sells out!
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.
How Tater Tot Casserole Became a Midwest Icon, a Best-Selling Cookbook Author Explains
Tater tots are already pretty hard to resist. Bake them until golden and crispy on top of a creamy casserole filled with ground beef and veggies, and we’re definitely interested. That’s the magic of tater tot hotdish.
The Midwest favorite, which is particularly beloved in Minnesota, isn’t shy about what it is. It’s warm, hearty and covered edge to edge with crispy potatoes. But there’s more to tater tot hotdish than opening a bag of frozen tots and pouring them over dinner. Its history involves church cookbooks, a couple of potato entrepreneurs and a clever use for scraps that might otherwise have gone to waste.
😋😋 SIGN UP to get delicious recipes, handy kitchen hacks & more in our daily Pop Kitchen newsletter 🍳🍔
Erin Clarke, the founder of Well Plated and a best-selling cookbook author, got to know hotdish after moving to Minnesota in her early 20s. She remembers being introduced to it as “its own food group.” After 20 winters between Minnesota and Wisconsin, Clarke has also learned a thing or two about what makes a good one.
So, what separates hotdish from any old casserole? And how did tater tots get involved? We asked Clarke about the classic dish, including the simple detail that can make the difference between a golden, crispy top and a soggy one.
Hotdish vs. Casserole: What Is the Difference?The Washington Post / Getty Images
So, is hotdish just another name for casserole? In the Midwest, pretty much. “In many ways, it’s a regional word for casserole,” Clarke says.
According to Clarke, hotdish usually includes a starch (often rice), ground meat or diced chicken, and green beans or corn. Cheese and, traditionally, a can of cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup hold everything together. A crispy topping usually finishes it off, often Ritz crackers or, in some cases, cornflakes.
“Tater hotdish, however, is a recipe unto itself,” Clarke says. “It has the same casserole components, but frozen tater tots stand in for the crispy topping.”
Clarke calls tater tot hotdish “oddly comforting and nostalgic.” On a freezing January night, she says, “it hits the spot.”
The History: How Potato Scraps Created a Midwest IconThe Washington Post / Getty Images
Tater tots weren’t part of the earliest hotdishes. The first known recipe titled “hot dish” appeared in the 1930 Grace Lutheran Ladies Aid Cookbook in Mankato, Minnesota. It called for hamburger, tomato soup, Creamette elbow macaroni and canned peas.
Cream of mushroom soup arrived a few years later, when Campbell’s introduced it in 1934. Tater tots followed in 1953, thanks to Ore-Ida founders F. Nephi and Golden Grigg. The brothers were making french fries at their Oregon potato plant when they found themselves with leftover potato pieces they didn’t want to waste. They found a new use for those scraps, and tater tots were born.
Hotdish and tater tots didn’t start out together, but the two eventually crossed paths. Campbell’s and Ore-Ida both promoted hotdish recipes on their packaging, helping make these convenience foods familiar ingredients in the dish. The exact origin of tater tot hotdish is harder to pin down, but the combination became closely associated with Minnesota and the Upper Midwest.
The 3 Non-Negotiable Layers of an Authentic HotdishFor a classic tater tot hotdish, you need the filling, something creamy to hold it together and plenty of tots on top.
“The classic version is made with ground beef, a can of cream of mushroom soup, green beans or corn straight from the freezer bag, then the top is covered in the tots,” Clarke says.
Those ingredients aren’t your only options. “Ground turkey works nicely in place of the beef,” Clarke says, and you can use “whatever vegetable is already in your freezer” or sauté fresh vegetables instead.
She also prefers making the creamy part herself rather than using canned soup. Clarke cooks butter, flour, broth and a splash of milk on the stove while browning the beef, then combines everything in the same pan. “It takes little effort, and the flavor payoff is well worth it,” she says.
Regular tater tots are the classic choice, but Clarke has another favorite. “For something unique, I love to use sweet potato tater tots instead of the traditional,” she says. Shredded cheddar is also a popular addition, “which I can personally attest is delicious,” Clarke says.
The Expert’s Secret to Avoiding a Soggy Tater Tot CasseroleThe tots may be the best part of tater tot casserole, but not if they come out soft and soggy. Clarke says how you arrange them makes a difference.
“Make sure you arrange the tots in a single layer without any overlap,” she says. That means no piling on extra tots, as tempting as it may be.
Clarke also says to use the tots straight from the freezer rather than thawing them first. Once they’re arranged on top, very lightly press them into the filling. “Don’t submerge them too much or the outsides won’t crisp,” she says.
Final ThoughtsIf you’ve made it this far without craving tater tots, we’re impressed. For everyone else, consider this a good excuse to see what generations of Midwesterners have been enjoying.
Source:- Erin Clarke is the founder of Well Plated and the best-selling cookbook author of The Well Plated Cookbook and Well Plated Every Day.
Related: The Best Way To Make Hash Browns 10x Better, According to an Award-Winning Chef
Who Went Home on 'America's Got Talent' 2026 Tonight? Semifinals Live Show Results (Spoilers)
The semifinals for America’s Got Talent featured performances from the 12 artists hoping to be voted through by America to make the finale. Scheduled acts included dancing dog act Acro Canine Crew, Portuguese comedy singer Cesar Dias, Korean dance troupe Come Here, stand-up comedian Daniel Alvarez, magician Geno Ploeger, Canadian magician Kameron Marshall, rapper Luke Taleno, dog act Olivia Befus, dance group Royal Lasers, singer Travis Garland, aerialist Veronika Goroshkova, and English comedy-magic duo Young & Strange.
Six of them will make it through to the finale on America’s vote and they will join the four acts chosen by judges Howie Mandel, Mel B and Sofia Verga to advance straight to the finale by receiving Live Golden Buzzers during the quarterfinals. They are: Korean magician group Hundred Fingers, teenage singer Lai Noelle, Thai guitarist Nene Royal, and Chinese robot dance group Unitree. The remaining six will go home.
Simon Cowell was still absent from the judges desk as he recovers from his back surgery.
Here’s our spoiler-filled recap of who went home on America’s Got Talent tonight.
🎬 SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox🎬
Who went home tonight on America’s Got Talent Season 21 in 2026? Daniel AlvarezCesar Dias
Travis Garland
Kameron Marshall
Luke Taleno
Young & Strange Who went through on AGT tonight to the finale? Acro Canine Crew
Olivia Befus
Come Here
Veronika Goroshkova
Geno Ploeger
Royal Lasers
America’s Got Talent Semifinals Results Show Recap
As usual, host Terry Crews kicked off the night with a recap of Tuesday night’s performances of the 12 artists hoping to make it into next week’s finale.
Next, Alan Cumming popped in via a pre-taped video to introduce Thursday night’s real-people version of The Traitors: The New Breed, which will premiere on NBC at 8 p.m. ET/PT.
After some chit chat with the judges, Terry began the first results reveal. He called to the stage Kameron Marshall and Oliva Befus. It was Olivia that is moving on.
Then it was Daniel Alvarez vs Veronika Goroshkova with Veronika emerging victorious.
Before the results continued, former AGT contestant Chris Turner returned for a fun audience-participation rap performance.
Then the results continued with Terry calling to the stage Acro Canine Crew and Cesar Dias. It’s hard to beat a dog act, and Cesar didn’t manage that, so he’s going home and Acro Canine Crew moves on to the finale.
The fourth spot in the finale was a contest between dance troupe Come Here and rapper Luke Taleno. America voted and it’s Come Here that will be showing off its move in the finale.
With only two spots remaining, Terry called up Royal Lasers and Young & Strange. The winner of that duel was Royal Lasers.
Geno Ploeger and Travis Garland faced off for the last remaining spot in the finale and Terry revealed that it would be Geno moving on.
America’s Got Talent airs finale performances next Tuesday night at 8 p.m. ET/PT on NBC with results on Wednesday night at 8. Streams next day on Peacock.
Next, America’s Got Talent 2026 Live Show Acts Revealed: Who Made the Cut After Big Format Shake-Up?
Andersen 400 vs. Pella Architect: Which Luxury Wood Windows Are Worth the Price?
Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.
Replacing high-end windows is a major home decision. You’re paying for the frame you see, the glass you live with every day and the installation protecting your home from drafts and moisture. If you’re comparing Andersen windows with Pella’s Architect Series, the real question is less about which brand has the better reputation and more about which construction and design choices fit your house.
For homeowners choosing between the Andersen 400 Series vs. Pella Architect Series, the biggest distinction is exterior cladding. Andersen 400 Series windows use wood with Perma-Shield vinyl cladding, while Pella’s Architect Series products use wood with aluminum-clad exteriors. That difference affects appearance, maintenance and customization.
If your existing windows are sticking, leaking, rotting or showing failed seals, a professional assessment from Renewal by Andersen can determine whether repair makes sense or replacement is the better investment.
Both lines combine a wood interior with a protective exterior cladding, but they take different approaches. Andersen 400 Series uses a wood core and Perma-Shield vinyl exterior. Pella Architect Series Reserve uses wood with aluminum cladding and emphasizes architectural detailing and customization. Neither is a basic replacement window.
Feature
Andersen 400 Series
Pella Architect Series Reserve
Interior
Natural wood
Natural wood
Exterior
Perma-Shield vinyl cladding
Aluminum cladding
Design focus
Traditional versatility
Architectural customization
Custom sizing
Available
Available
Exterior maintenance
Low maintenance
Low maintenance
Wood protection
Exterior cladding protects wood
EnduraGuard treatment plus aluminum cladding
Best fit
Broad range of traditional homes
Detailed, custom and historically inspired designs
The Andersen 400 Series is designed around a balance of performance, design options and price. Andersen describes it as its longest-standing and most popular product line.
Pella’s Architect Series evolved into a collection that includes Reserve and Contemporary designs. Pella introduced Architect Series Reserve specifically around historical authenticity, detailed craftsmanship and extensive customization.
Which Window Has the Better Wood-and-Clad Construction?The construction difference comes down to vinyl versus aluminum on the exterior.
Andersen’s 400 Series uses Perma-Shield, a proprietary high-grade vinyl cladding formed around the wood. The wood provides the interior appearance and structural core, while the exterior cladding protects it from weather. Andersen says the exterior does not require painting.
Pella Architect Series Reserve takes a different route. Its wood windows use exterior aluminum cladding, along with EnduraGuard wood protection designed to resist moisture, decay, mold, mildew and termite damage.
That makes the choice partly aesthetic. If you want the warmth of wood indoors without maintaining exposed exterior wood, both approaches address the problem. If the exterior finish and architectural detailing are major priorities, Pella’s aluminum-clad construction offers more finish possibilities.
Which Offers More Architectural Customization?Pella has the edge when the project depends on highly specific architectural details.
Architect Series Reserve was developed for historically inspired projects and offers details such as putty-profile styling, through-stile construction and equal sightlines. Pella also offers custom sizes, grille designs, wood species, finishes and glass options.
Andersen 400 Series is highly customizable as well. Depending on the window style, homeowners can choose different exterior colors, interior wood finishes, grille patterns, hardware and glass. Specialty shapes and custom sizing are also available.
For a conventional suburban replacement project, Andersen 400 Series may provide more customization than you actually need. For a historic renovation or a home where window proportions and period details are central to the design, Pella Architect Series Reserve deserves closer consideration.
Which Requires Less Window Maintenance?Both designs reduce exterior maintenance compared with traditional exposed wood windows because the weather-facing wood is protected by cladding.
Pella says its aluminum cladding helps protect wood from the elements and reduces the need to refinish exterior frames. Andersen says its Perma-Shield exterior protects the wood while providing a low-maintenance surface.
The interior still deserves routine attention. Wood surfaces should be kept clean and inspected for moisture intrusion, deteriorating finishes or other damage. The surrounding wall, flashing and sealants matter, too. A premium window cannot compensate for water getting behind the installation.
If you’re seeing staining, soft wood, peeling finishes or recurring condensation around an existing window, a professional inspection from Renewal by Andersen can help you determine whether replacement is necessary. Finding the source of the problem is more useful than simply covering the symptoms.
Is a Premium Wood Window Worth the Higher Price?A premium window makes more sense when you will actually use its advantages.
For homeowners renovating a period-style house, the value may come from authentic proportions, custom grilles and wood interiors. For others, the priority may be a low-maintenance exterior and dependable operation rather than highly specialized architectural details.
Energy performance also depends on the complete window assembly. ENERGY STAR recommends looking at factors such as U-factor and solar heat gain coefficient when selecting efficient windows. Installation quality matters just as much: ENERGY STAR notes that even high-performing windows can develop drafts when installed poorly.
Renewal by Andersen makes the same point in its replacement-window guidance. Building engineer Ross Trethewey states: “You can have the best window in the world. And if it’s not installed right, you’re not going to have a great outcome.”
That matters when comparing quotes. A lower window price does not tell you what installation method, labor, flashing work, trim or warranty coverage is included.
New Windows From Renewal by AndersenRenewal by Andersen
Professional window replacement from Renewal by Andersen can help you save money on your utility bills.
Andersen 400 vs. Pella Architect: Which Should You Choose?For many homeowners, the decision comes down to the character of the house and how much customization the project demands.
Andersen 400 Series makes sense when:
- You want a wood interior with a low-maintenance vinyl-clad exterior.
- You prefer a traditional appearance with substantial design flexibility.
- You want a well-established product line without specifying highly specialized architectural details.
Pella Architect Series Reserve makes sense when:
- Architectural authenticity is a major priority.
- You want extensive customization of proportions, profiles, finishes and grilles.
- You prefer aluminum-clad wood construction on the exterior.
There is no meaningful reason to choose a window solely because its brand is considered “luxury.” The right choice depends on the existing openings, condition of the surrounding structure, climate, desired appearance, glass performance and installation requirements.
For homeowners whose current windows are deteriorating, Renewal by Andersen offers a free consultation and inspection to evaluate replacement needs and discuss available options. A professional assessment is especially useful when you’re unsure whether the problem is the window itself or the installation around it.
Who Went Home on 'Dancing with the Stars' Tonight? Season 35 Premiere Night 2 Results and Eliminations (Spoilers)
Dancing with the Stars continued with its second premiere night for its 35th season. Co-hosted by Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough, with judges Carrie Ann Inaba, Bruno Tonioli and Derek Hough, the ballroom welcomed 16 new celebrities and their professional partners for their first live performance.
This season’s Dancing with the Stars premiered with a two-night event with the male contestants competing on Tuesday night — with Conner Levitt being eliminated — and the females tonight, which meant that tonight Tatyana Ali, Hailey Bills, Giada de Laurentiis, Jenna Dewan, Amber Glenn, Maura Higgins, Ciara Miller, Sarah Jane Nader, and Julia Stiles either performed the cha cha, tango, quickstep or jive and received their first scores from the judges.
Check out our spoiler-filled recap of Night 2 of the Dancing with the Stars Season 35 premiere, including who went home.
💃🏻💃🏻SIGN UP for our Dancing with the Stars newsletter to get access to exclusive news, interviews, songs, recaps and more🕺🏼🕺🏼
Who was eliminated on Dancing with the Stars tonight? Sarah Jane Nader and Hailey Bills Who finished at the top of the Dancing with the Stars leaderboard tonight?The highest score of the night – 21 out of a possible 30 points — was a little bit of a surprise. It went to Maura Higgins, who came into the competition with no dance experience. The one advantage she did have was she was partnered with Mark Ballas, who definitely knows how to teach. Bruno told her, “You foxy Traitor, so seductive, so enticing. The movement for week one was quality.” Carrie Ann said, “That was mesmerizing. You had the caricature right. And Derek told her, “That was smooth as velvet. All the things you want to see in a Foxtrot.”
Who finished at the bottom of the Dancing with the Stars leaderboard tonight?The lowest score of the night was from the opening act Tatyana Ali. It’s hard to be first, so some nerves came into play but she only managed to earn 12 points out of 30 with partner Jan Ravnik. Derek pointed out that she was a little flat footed and Bruno said, “I liked the beginning. You just need to keep it going.”
What were the scores on Dancing with the Stars tonight?Here are the full scores from tonight’s episode of DWTS:
Tatyana Ali & Jan (Jive): Carrie Ann, 4 + Derek, 4 + Bruno, 4 = 12
Amber & Pasha (Cha Cha): Carrie Ann, 6 + Derek, 6 + Bruno, 6 = 18
Ciara & Brandon (Foxtrot): Carrie Ann, 5 + Derek, 5 + Bruno, 5 = 15
Giada & Alan (Tango): Carrie Ann, 6 + Derek, 5 + Bruno, 5 = 16
Julia & Ezra (Quickstep ): Carrie Ann, 6 + Derek, 6 + Bruno, 6 = 18
Maura & Mark (Foxtrot): Carrie Ann, 7+ Derek, 7+ Bruno, 7 = 21
Sarah Jane & Hailey (Jive): Carrie Ann, 5 + Derek, 4 + Bruno, 5= 14
Jenna & Val (Tango ): Carrie Ann, 6 + Derek, 6 + Bruno, 7 = 19
Season 35 of DWTS airs Tuesday nights at 8 p.m. ET/PT and is simulcast LIVE across both ABC and Disney+. Streams next day on Hulu.
Next, Every Song and Dance for the Dancing with the Stars Season 35 Premiere
