Parade

Subscribe to Parade feed Parade
Your daily destination for celebrity news, videos, entertainment, food, recipes, health tips, fitness, and games from America's most popular magazine.
Updated: 32 min 55 sec ago

Hit Broadway Musical 'Annie' Returning for 50th Anniversary Show in 2027

Tue, 09/15/2026 - 10:43am

According to a recent announcement reported by Playbill, the Broadway smash hit Annie is officially set to return to New York’s theater district in 2027, just in time to celebrate the show’s historic 50th anniversary.

As per Playbill, the show will return to Broadway in fall 2027, with Tony winner Sam Pinkleton of Oh, Mary! acclaim serving as the show’s director. Additional information, such as a premiere date, theater and key casting details have yet to be announced.

“If you ask any of my closest friends what I love more than anything on the planet, everyone will have the same answer: Annie,” Pinkleton said in a formal statement. “Annie is everything I love about New York City: gutsy, fearless, and funny as hell. It’s a perfectly constructed musical comedy that my collaborators and I will run toward with joy and abandon — with open hearts and total adoration for this legendary show that has made generations fall in love with musicals.”

Based on Harold Gray’s newspaper cartoon strip Little Orphan Annie, Annie follows the titular young orphan as she escapes from a rundown orphanage and finds herself the unlikely ward of a New York business tycoon.

With music by Charles Strouse and lyrics by Michael Charnin, Annie became one of the most acclaimed musicals of late ’70s Broadway, later paving the way to three separate film adaptations in 1982, 1999, and 2014, as well as a live TV version on NBC in 2021.

While each of these adaptations had varying levels of success, perhaps the most widely seen is the original 1982 adaptation starring Carol Burnett, Albert Finney, Bernadette Peters and the late Tim Curry.

“Fifty years ago, our father, Martin Charnin, had an idea: that a little redheaded girl who refused to give up might have something to say to the world. Today, we believe the true measure of a legacy is carrying it forward — so the work continues to inspire new generations,” the Charnin family said of the new show.

“Randy and Sasha Charnin are deeply honored to help bring Annie home to Broadway, where she can once again share her timeless message of hope, joy, and optimism,” the family continued. “Annie was never about yesterday. It was always about tomorrow.”

First Watch Has a New ‘Traitors’ Breakfast Menu—and Yes, There’s Bacon of Betrayal

Tue, 09/15/2026 - 10:33am

The Traitors is returning to screens this week with The Traitors: New Blood, the first-ever non-celebrity version of the reality series. With players like an astrophysicist, a barrel racer, and a therapist, things are bound to get deliciously dramatic on Season 5 of the Emmy-winning show.

But fans can also get in on the drama over breakfast: First Watch just launched a limited-time Traitors-inspired menu featuring dishes like Bacon of Betrayal and Tres Leches Treachery.

What’s on First Watch’s ‘The Traitors’ Menu?

Among the items on the new menu are the Traitor Tri-Fecta, your choice of two eggs, a waffle or pancake, and breakfast meat, Bacon of Betrayal, a treacherous take on the chain’s popular Million Dollar Bacon, and Tres Leches Treachery, French toast topped with warm, dulce de leche goodness.

“As the nation’s leading daytime dining restaurant, we know breakfast is more than a meal. It’s a moment that brings people together,” said Matt Eisenacher, chief brand officer at First Watch, in a press release. “Every morning on The Traitors: New Blood, contestants gather around the table to uncover surprises, share suspicions and react to the unexpected. We loved the idea of bringing some of that energy and intrigue to breakfast lovers in our restaurants nationwide.”

Earn ‘The Traitors’ Prizes by Visiting First Watch

What’s more, through the First Watch app, fans can sign up to participate in interactive digital missions and earn exclusive rewards, with a new mission dropping every two weeks throughout the season.

Completing each mission will unlock sweepstakes entries and instant perks. One fan will win free First Watch breakfast for a year, plus there’s official Traitors swag to be won simply by having brunch and playing along.

How to Get ‘The Traitors’ Menu at First Watch

First Watch’s limited-time Traitors-inspired menu is now live at all of the chain’s more than 650 locations. First Watch tells Parade the first app-exclusive menu and missions launch on the evening of Sept. 16. The chain has also confirmed that the menu will be available through Nov. 23.

Related: Meet ‘The Traitors: New Blood’ Cast—Including a Former MLB Player

Cyndi Lauper Surprises Fans With Major Announcement on 'True Colors' 40th Anniversary

Tue, 09/15/2026 - 10:29am

Four decades ago, Cyndi Lauper released her second studio album,
“True Colors,” and it instantly became a pop classic.

With hits such as “Change of Heart,” “What’s Going On,” and, of course, “True Colors,” the album peaked at No. 4 on the Billboard 200 chart and sold 7 million copies worldwide. The album is also certified double platinum by the RIAA.

Now, on the 40th anniversary, Lauper, 73, is thanking her fans with a deluxe edition of the album and new music!

“Today marks 40 years of ‘True Colors’ and to celebrate, we’re releasing a deluxe edition of the album digitally and on 2LP that will feature a never-before-released track and select tracks from my Live at Le Zenith Paris show in 1987,” Lauper wrote on Instagram.

She went on to thank fans for “embracing the range” on the album, and letting her take risks.

View this post on Instagram

“I was always hoping to become a great artist. To be remembered as someone who tried to push the boundaries a little. I’m lucky to have had partners and fans who embraced what I was doing,” she added. “You start out wanting to make good music, and you hope, also, to make a difference in people’s lives and do something forward in music. I didn’t know if I could, but I tried, and people heard me.”

Lauper used the milestone anniversary to finish the track, “The River Cried,” a song by Billy Steinberg and Tom Kelly that did not make the 1986 album. She also included the mastered version of “Across the Universe” that she did with Epic Records executive Lennie Petze.

“We made art, and it was very intentional. Having lost both Lennie and Billy this year, this project is especially meaningful to me,” she concluded the post.

Fans are able to pre-order the deluxe edition of “True Colors” on Lauper’s website.

2004 Billboard Hit, Now Ranked America’s Top 2026 Party Song, Was Built to Be ‘Thriller,’ ‘Beat It,’ and ‘Billie Jean’ Combined

Tue, 09/15/2026 - 10:27am

Twenty-two years after it hit the airwaves, Usher’s 2004 anthem “Yeah!” reigns at the top of America’s party playlists, standing stronger than the era that built it and every modern challenger that tried to take its crown.

The track, anchored by the presence of Lil Jon and Ludacris, spent 12 straight weeks at the summit of the Billboard Hot 100 back in the winter of 2004. Created by producers Sean Garrett, James Lackey, and Lil Jon, it fused crunk aggression with smooth R&B to map out the blueprint for mid-2000s nightlife.

Songwriter Garrett says he doesn’t consider the song to be an Usher hit, but a Michael Jackson song. “If I can give [Usher] ‘Billie Jean’, ‘Beat It’ and ‘Thriller ‘in one song…I could kill it.” And so he did, penning a song that gets everyone from groomsmen to grandmother to wedding dance floors. And the fans haven’t moved on since its release. Streaming data captures millions of weekly global spins of the song, regularly beating out fresh releases on lists that track party bangers. Generations of listeners born after the track dropped are keeping the now-classic song locked in heavy rotation.

Industry recognition came fast in 2005, when the single secured a Grammy for Best Rap/Sung Collaboration alongside a nod for Record of the Year. It served as the heavy-hitting anchor for Usher’s fourth studio album, Confessions, a commercial hit that cleared 10 million copies in domestic sales alone to secure rare diamond certification.

On television screens, Little X directed a neon-drenched, futuristic music video that was played on MTV and BET during the golden age of television music programming. On the airwaves, terrestrial radio refuses to let go, pulling strong spin counts across both contemporary and urban adult contemporary formats every single weekend.

The creators themselves keep the party going on stage. Usher made the track the centerpiece of his Super Bowl LVIII Halftime Show performance, dragging Lil Jon and Ludacris onto the field to resurrect the energy of 2004 and instantly sending daily streaming numbers upward.

Music historians point to the sharp synthesizer line and that unmistakable opening vocal cadence as the engine behind its endurance. Streaming services rely on automated throwback logic to drop the track right next to current club hits, treating a two-decade-old song as a contemporary peer.

Platforms update party rotations weekly based on what listeners actually finish instead of skipping, and the single keeps showing up at the top because people refuse to turn it off.

Robert De Niro Has No Idea What a “Thirst Trap” Is—and Amy Poehler’s Explanation Is Comedy Gold

Tue, 09/15/2026 - 10:15am

Robert De Niro is learning what a thirst trap is, thanks to Amy Poehler!

De Niro, 83, known for iconic films ranging from Taxi Driver and Raging Bull to Meet the Parents and Analyze This, made a rare podcast appearance on Poehler’s hit show, Good Hang with Amy Poehler. The star, who does his best to avoid talking about himself in the press, sat down with Poehler and got an education when she shared that he’s a TikTok sensation. It seems young people love to make mash-up videos of De Niro in his younger years, showing off how handsome he was. However, the star wasn’t so clear on the meaning of “thirst trap,” which is an attractive social media post or video that’s usually meant to garner attention or sexual interest. Check out the hilarious moment below:

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 🎬 

De Niro and Tiffany Chen Have a Daughter Together

De Niro separated from his former wife, Grace Hightower, back in 2018. However, the Oscar winner has found love again, walking the red carpet at the Tribeca Film Festival with girlfriend Tiffany Chen, 46. Wearing an asymmetric black gown and silver hoop earrings, Chen, a martial arts instructor who met De Niro on the set of The Intern, looked absolutely stunning alongside the actor. Holding hands, the duo worked it for the cameras.

Jamie McCarthy / Getty Images

What Else Has De Niro Said About Parenting?

Last year, De Niro opened up about supporting his kids through everything.

“The main thing is to support your kids,” De Niro told ET. “As long as they’re not hurting themselves, doing anything destructive or anything like that, you have to support them—period… Even if you don’t go with it or think that they…you have to support them,” he continued. “And they have to know that you support them. Always.”

As for Gia, he called her a “pure joy.”

“She’s 2 now, so as they get older and older then…” he said. “But it’s always wonderful. Pure joy, what can I say?”⁠

Check out a sweet photo of De Niro and his daughter below.

View this post on Instagram

Related: Robert De Niro, 83, Gets Candid on Raising 7 Children

These $5 Fallen Leaf Taper Candles Are Target's Prettiest Decor Find

Tue, 09/15/2026 - 10:15am

Fall candle season is officially here, and while pumpkin spice may get all the attention, a pretty taper candle can be the real star of an autumnal setup. Whether you’re dressing up the dining table, adding a little glow to a mantel or simply trying to make your home feel cozier, seasonal candles are an easy way to give your space that unmistakable fall feeling. (And you can never have too many, right?)

Target has a particularly cute option that looks far more expensive than expected. The Fall Taper Candle Set from Threshold features two 10-inch, unscented wax taper candles decorated with a delicate brown leaf motif. The design is festive without going full pumpkin-everywhere, making these an especially easy fit for anyone who prefers their fall decor a little more understated.

😋😋 SIGN UP to get delicious recipes, handy kitchen hacks & more in our daily Pop Kitchen newsletter 🍳🍔

Threshold Fall Taper Candle Set, Brown Leaves, $5 (originally $6) at Target

Target

Shop It!

Picture them tucked into brass or wooden candle holders on a Thanksgiving table, paired with a bowl of mini pumpkins or casually displayed on a shelf with a few dried branches. Basically, they’re giving cozy autumn dinner party without requiring you to completely redecorate your house.

And Target shoppers seem to be into the vibes. One reviewer said, “These are so pretty and classy-looking!” Another wrote, “These taper candles are so pretty and unique! They look and feel expensive.” Honestly, that last part may be the biggest compliment $5 candles can receive.

The candles are also unscented, so they can bring some seasonal style without competing with your favorite fall fragrance. Each one has a single wick and an approximately seven-hour burn time. Or, you can just leave them be so they last forever.

Related: Marshalls’ $25 Faux Berry Wreath Is the Cozy Fall Touch Your Front Door Needs

Another reviewer summed up the bargain factor perfectly: “Gorgeous candles at a fraction of the cost of designer candles. Perfect for Autumn.”

At a time when fall decor can quickly turn into an expensive shopping spree, these little leaf-covered tapers are a refreshingly easy win. They’re pretty enough to make a centerpiece feel special, subtle enough to work beyond Halloween and inexpensive enough that grabbing a pair feels more like a treat than a splurge.

So, if your home is missing one tiny touch of autumn charm, consider this your sign to light the way. Just don’t be surprised if a $5 Target run somehow turns into a full-blown adventure, like usual.

Related: Owala’s Latest Target Exclusive Print Has Us Ready for Sweater Weather

1982 Stephen King Story, Which You Can Read in a Day, Was Named the Best Novella of All Time

Tue, 09/15/2026 - 10:14am

Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption, which was written by the legendary Stephen King, was released in 1982. The story was recently ranked the best novella of all time by Collider.

The novella, which has a 4.5-star rating on Goodreads, “tells a powerful tale of crushing despair and liberating hope through the eyes of Ellis ‘Red’ Redding. Red’s a guy who can get you whatever you want here in Maine’s corrupt and hard-edged Shawshank State Penitentiary (for a price, of course), but the one thing he doesn’t count on is an unexpected friendship forged with fellow inmate Andy Dufresne—an inscrutable one-time banker perhaps falsely convicted of brutal, calculated murder who will go on to transform everyone’s lives within these prison walls.”

Related: 2009 Stephen King Novel Named One of His ‘Most Suspenseful’ Took Him 3 Decades To Write

Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption was turned into a hit 1994 movie that currently has a 98% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes. The film was nominated for seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture. When asked about his favorite book, Morgan Freeman, who starred in the film, told IGN, “Well, it is a novella, but I do like The Shawshank Redemption.”

Although King is mostly known for his horror novels, this is a more uplifting story. According to ScreenRant, King once revealed, “I was in a supermarket down here in Florida, and I came around the corner, and there was a woman coming the other way. She pointed at me, she said, ‘I know who you are! You’re Stephen King! You write all of those horrible things. And that’s ok. That’s alright. But I like uplifting things, like that movie Shawshank Redemption.’ And I said, ‘I wrote that!’ And she said, ‘No you didn’t. No you didn’t.’”

Related: 1979 Novel, Banned in Some Areas, Ranked the Most Disturbing Stephen King Book Ever Written

The other stories that made Collider’s list of best novellas were The Stranger, The Metamorphosis, The Crying of Lot 49, Breakfast at Tiffany’s, Animal Farm, Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, Heart of Darkness, The Body, and Of Mice and Men.

Warby Parker's Pretty New Frames Make Bifocals Stylish: 'These Glasses Have Literally Changed My Life!'

Tue, 09/15/2026 - 10:10am

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

As someone with a stronger glasses prescription that requires thicker lenses, finding cute glasses isn’t always easy. And if you wear bifocals, then you also understand the struggle. Luckily, Warby Parker makes it easier than ever to find high-quality, stylish and functional glasses at the right price. Just take a look at the striking pair the retailer is selling right now.

Warby Parker’s Esme Eyeglasses in Confetti Tortoise make bifocals and progressive lenses stylish. While these types of lenses can be thicker and make certain frames, such as thinner or more minimalist styles, more difficult to rock, Warby Parker’s Esme frames have no such issue. They are absolutely perfect for these types of glasses-wearers.

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

Esme Eyeglasses, Confetti Tortoise, Starting at $95 at Warby Parker

Warby Parker

Shop It!

These charming eyeglasses feature a squarish cat-eye look that gives retro elegance. The fun, multi-colored frame is subtle yet adds a pop of vibrancy to your face. There are also other hues available if this multi-colored vibe isn’t really your thing!

Shoppers are loving these glasses, especially those who wear bifocals or progressive lenses. Reviewers have given Warby Parker’s Esme Eyeglasses an average rating of 4.5 stars on WarbyParker.com. Fans appreciate them for their stylish look, color, sturdiness and comfortable fit, as well as their suitability for thicker lenses.

“These glasses have literally changed my life! I was so hesitant to wear bifocals, but Warby Parker Esme frames have made me feel so stylish, and go with everything I wear!” raved one fan in a five-star review on Warby Parker’s website.

“I had these same frames a few years ago, and while I love the frames I got next, I needed to have these frames again in my new prescription….that’s how much I love them! So happy they are still available. They suit my silver hair, my face and my vision correction requirements as they have a larger field of vision down low, which is perfect for progressives, especially if you choose premium progressives with the wider field, like I did. And yet, SO stylish,” wrote another happy Warby Parker customer in a five-star review on WarbyParker.com.

You can order a pair of Esme Eyeglasses on WarbyParker.com or find them at select Warby Parker locations. Prices start at $95.

Related: Costco Is Selling a Levi’s Jean Jacket That’s Too Cute to Pass Up

Warner Bros. Is Taking Its Superman Rides to the Next Level—and This New Coaster Could Be a First

Tue, 09/15/2026 - 10:10am

Calling all Superman fans: You may want to start saving those frequent flyer miles.

Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi is developing a new Superman roller coaster that promises to make riders feel like the Man of Steel himself. Even more interesting? It will be part of a larger, interconnected DC storyline unfolding across multiple attractions in the park’s Metropolis land.

Dubbed Superman Up and Away, the new coaster is expected to open in 2028, replacing the former Superman 360: Battle for Metropolis 3D attraction inside the Daily Planet.

Only this isn’t your standard sit-down-and-hold-on-tight coaster.

Related: Two New Massive Superman Rides Are Coming to This Global Theme Park Hub

Superman Up and Away Will Let You “Fly”

Superman Up and Away will be a flying coaster, meaning riders will be positioned face-down beneath the track, creating the sensation of soaring through the air Superman-style. Construction plans reported by Forbes also suggest the coaster could include an unusual element in which trains launch upward toward a pointed section of track, potentially giving riders a moment of weightlessness before gliding back down. If built as indicated, the maneuver would be a first for a flying coaster.

Basically, capes are not required.

But the ride experience is only half of what makes the project intriguing. Superman Up and Away will continue a story that has already begun elsewhere in Metropolis—and naturally, Lex Luthor is behind the trouble.

The plot kicked off with Kryptonite Collider, which opened this summer. The spinning attraction centers around Luthor’s fictional “Everyman Project,” in which he claims to have harnessed Kryptonite to give ordinary citizens superpowers so they no longer need to rely on the Justice League. Riders climb aboard a machine powered by the glowing green substance and, presumably, hope accepting superpowers from Superman’s archenemy turns out better than it sounds.

View this post on Instagram

Related: Six Flags Just Swept All Four Top Spots for Best New Roller Coaster

One DC Story, Multiple Theme Park Rides

Here’s where things get particularly interesting for DC fans: Kryptonite Collider and Superman Up and Away are part of the same continuing narrative.

Miral creative production director Corrado Campanelli confirmed to Forbes that Kryptonite Collider represents the beginning of a storyline that will continue in the Superman coaster—and expand beyond those two attractions.

In other words, rather than experiencing a collection of standalone DC rides, visitors will watch one story unfold as Metropolis evolves around them.

The concept makes sense given how immersive Warner Bros. World already is. The entirely indoor Abu Dhabi park transports guests into six themed lands, including the gritty streets of Gotham City and the decidedly sunnier Metropolis, where Superman and fellow Justice League heroes reside beneath a perpetually glowing artificial sky. The park currently offers more than 30 rides and family experiences.

And Metropolis could soon look a little less squeaky-clean.

Park general manager Hind Galadari told Forbes that the land needed something Gotham has in abundance: a villain. Enter Lex Luthor, whose presence is now being woven more deeply into the destination.

There could even be a Lex roaming around soon. Miral is searching for a character performer to bring the supervillain onto the streets of Metropolis for guest interactions.

So by the time Superman Up and Away takes flight in 2028, visitors may not simply be boarding another roller coaster. They’ll be stepping into the next chapter of an ongoing DC adventure.

And as any Superman fan knows, where Lex Luthor goes, trouble usually isn’t far behind.

Up next:

Related: 1978 Movie, With Christopher Reeve, Ranked ‘Best Superhero Movie’ of All Time

1975 Blues Ballad, Written by a Texan Before Going to Prison, Is Still a Beloved Hit Track 51 Years Later

Tue, 09/15/2026 - 10:00am

Freddy Fender was one of music’s best-known country and Tejano singers, beginning his career in the 1950s, and one of his biggest succesful songs was written years before it hit the charts.

“Wasted Days and Wasted Nights” is a country and pop song that was recorded by Fender and considered a swamp pop idiom of the South. He started his career after being discharged from the Marines and began working in local clubs and releasing Spanish versions of hit tracks, like Elvis Presley.

Around the late 1950’s, he signed with Imperial Records and gave himself a new stage moniker based on the brand name of his guitar. He felt that, in order to gain a wider audience, he needed to appeal to more “gringo” or white fans. At that time, Fender developed and recorded the track “Wasted Days and Wasted Nights,” a swamp pop track with a rock edge.

“’Wasted Days and Wasted Nights’ is about days very wrongly invested in a love affair,” said Fender.

Fender also reportedly commented that he wrote the song during a “low point” in his life. Hillbilly Music reported that he was broke, couldn’t afford a room, and that his marriage was falling apart as he and his wife were separated.

The track didn’t end up being recorded and released under Fender’s name until 1975. The reason behind its belated release was Fender’s run-in with the law. “Wasted Days and Wasted Nights” showcased his new style of Tejano and rockabilly, but it was put on hold when the singer was arrested.

In May 1960, Fender was arrested on charges of marijuana possession and was later convicted. He was arrested in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and sent to Angola State Prison, where he served a three-year sentence until July 1963. While Fender was in prison, the Texas-based band Sir Douglas Quintet released their cover of the track in 1971. Reports say Doug Sahm dedicated the song to Fender.

After three years in prison, Fender’s career had taken several steps back, and he began working as a mechanic to make ends meet. KUTX reported that producer Huey Meaux was the one who sought out the singer and gave him his comeback hit, “When the Next Teardrop Falls.”

The success of that track reignited Fender’s music ambitions, and he re-recorded
“Wasted Days and Wasted Nights.” It was a major success for the singer, as it became a No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and No. 9 on the Easy Listening chart. Fender’s song even landed at No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and did well in Canada.

“Wasted Days and Wasted Nights” sold millions of copies and was certified gold. Fender would re-record the track two more times in the following years, and it was even part of the 1993 film The Beverly Hillbillies. It did have some pop culture fame when included in the biographical film W, Fire in the Sky, Hancock, and the TV series Reservation Dogs. Decades after its initial release, it was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame.

Related: 1974 Soul Song, Written for Maya Rudolph, Is Still a Powerful No.1 Hit 52 Years Later 

Martha Stewart Is Selling a 'Trendy' Woven Rattan Mirror That Looks Straight Out of a Cozy Beachside Cottage

Tue, 09/15/2026 - 10:00am

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 quickest way to refresh a room doesn’t always involve buying new furniture. Sometimes all you need is a well-placed mirror to make a space feel brighter, create the illusion of more square footage, and add a designer-inspired finishing touch to your walls. If you’ve been looking for one that does it all, Wayfair just marked down this Martha Stewart favorite by more than 60%. 

The Martha Stewart Luna Natural Rattan Round Wall Mirror is now on sale for $53, down from $140. It’s part of Martha Stewart’s Lily Pond collection, which draws inspiration from her beach cottage. Reviewers loved its natural style, with one calling it a “lovely mirror” and another saying it “adds the perfect coastal touch.” 

Martha Stewart Luna Natural Rattan Round Wall Mirror, $53 (was $140) at Wayfair

Courtesy of Wayfair

Shop at Wayfair

Measuring 26 inches in diameter with a slim 1-inch profile, the Martha Stewart Luna Mirror is both practical and pretty. Its handwoven natural rattan frame adds warmth and an organic feel, making it a great fit for powder rooms, entryways, bedrooms, and more. One shopper said it looked “super high-end” and was the perfect finishing touch for their hallway. 

Wayfair shoppers were also impressed with its size and style. One reviewer called the mirror “the perfect size for my powder room,” while another shared that it added “nice curves to the space.” A third Wayfair shopper said the mirror was “so cute” for their bathroom, adding that it was “trendy and fun.”

At 10 pounds, it’s lightweight enough for most people to install themselves using the built-in keyhole hanger. Just keep in mind that the handwoven rattan frame is all-natural, so slight variations in color can occur.

Related: Dolly Parton’s Charming $16 Soup Mug Is Made for Comfort Food and Cozy Fall Nights

If you’ve been looking for a mirror that doubles as wall decor, the Martha Stewart Luna Natural Rattan Round Wall Mirror is hard to pass up at over 60% off. Be sure to snag one while it’s still in stock and on sale!

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.

Alfonso Ribeiro Hints at 'DWTS' Season 35 Finale Change Ahead of Premiere

Tue, 09/15/2026 - 9:58am

Just ahead of the Dancing with the Stars premiere on Tuesday, Alfonso Ribeiro is already being asked about the finale.

Chatting on the red carpet at Monday night’s Emmy Awards, the DWTS host was asked about how changes to the elimination process will ultimately impact the finale. As it stands, with the announcement of there only being a double elimination during premiere week — which hasn’t happened since 2018 — six couples will be in the finals.

After being reminded just how many contestants would be left in the finale, during an interview with ABC’s On The Red Carpet, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air icon hinted at what’s to come.

View this post on Instagram

“That’s a big finale,” Ribeiro said. “That might mean there might be a couple of extra hours in that finale because we can’t do six [couples] without some extra time.”

The interview, which was posted to Instagram, garnered mixed reactions in the comments. Some fans were disappointed by the change, with one saying it “cheapens” the finale, while another said it was exciting as it allows for more freestyle dances, which are “everyone’s favorite.”

Related: Julianne Hough and Alfonso Ribeiro Defend Celeb Dancers With Experience on ‘DWTS’

The possible extended finale news comes after it was confirmed last week on Hulu’s Get Real podcast, hosted by Amanda Hirsch, that one male celebrity and one female celebrity will be eliminated after each night of the two-night premiere. Male “stars” will dance on Tuesday and the women will dance on Wednesday with their respective eliminations to follow.

“This is a first,” Mark Ballas said while chatting on the podcast alongside his partner Maura Higgins. “It’s not even an even playing field, right? It’s, like, the cast is split in half. They’re, kind of, like, ‘Boys over there, girls over here; one of you is going from each group.’ So, that’s a little different.”

The elimination changeup isn’t the only thing to raise eyebrows this season. Notably, some cast members including Jenna Dewan and Harry Shum Jr. are bringing major dance experience to the competition — a fact that hasn’t sit well with viewers thinking the two will have an advantage. However, Ribeiro noted during a discussion on DWTS’ podcast last week that their training won’t necessarily translate to the ballroom.

“It’s starting over, and you have to unlearn everything that you know,” he said.

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

'I’m a Personal Trainer—Here Are the 3 Best Couch Stretches To Relieve Aches and Pains'

Tue, 09/15/2026 - 9:50am

If you suffer from pain, you’re in good company. According to the U.S. Pain Foundation, a staggering one in four Americans experience pain daily. That’s 24.3% of the adult population.

A high percentage of individuals in this bracket have a chronic condition that’s causing discomfort. But many other factors can contribute to everyday aches and pains, from physically straining your muscles, to catching a virus, having a vitamin deficiency or even something unsuspected, like not getting enough restful sleep. It’s important to identify the root of your discomfort so you can address and manage it long-term. But what can you do for immediate relief?

While the first important step is speaking with your healthcare provider, there are several methods you can try to alleviate aches and pains, including taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications, when appropriate. A warm bath can be soothing and relieve joint or muscle stiffness, while a cold compress can help reduce swelling. But a bit of gentle exercise or stretching can truly be a life-changing remedy when it comes to decreasing muscle tension, boosting flexibility and offering relief.

We’re here to help with a routine you can do in the comfort of your home—and you don’t even need to leave the couch to get started! We spoke with an expert who breaks down the best couch stretches for aches and pains.

🩺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💊

Why Your Couch Is Secretly the Best Tool for Relieving Stiffness

A key benefit of incorporating a couch into your workouts is that you don’t have to get down onto the ground. That may seem like an obvious perk, but Domenic Angelino, MS, CSCS, FNS, CPT, Chief Exercise Scientist at FitCraft, says it can make a major difference.

“If you’re already dealing with chronic pain or have limited mobility, then getting onto the floor can be uncomfortable while also potentially making your condition worse,” Angelino tells Parade, adding, “There’s also a psychological barrier for some people that’s worth thinking about. Many people are naturally on their couch while at home. They don’t have to do anything special to start exercising from that position. By contrast, getting on the floor requires a stronger intention to transition to doing exercise. It can inhibit some people.”

Keep in mind that this isn’t necessarily the case for everyone. Some individuals might perform better or achieve greater results when they separate their workout and relaxation spaces—especially if their couch is not firm or supportive.

Now, let’s dive into the best trainer-recommended couch stretches to add to your routine, according to Angelino.

Stretch 1: The Modified Couch Stretch for Tight Hip Flexors

If you’re specifically looking for couch stretches for your hip flexors, this modified version can help relieve tightness. Here’s exactly how to do it:

  1. Begin standing tall in front of the couch with your feet hip-distance apart.
  2. Lift one leg behind you, allowing the top of your foot to rest on the couch. The soles of your feet should be pointed straight up.
  3. Then, bend the knee of your standing leg to lower yourself, like you’re lunging in place.
  4. As you descend, allow your elevated leg to naturally extend behind you.
  5. Lower as far as you comfortably can.
  6. Hold the position for 30 to 45 seconds.
  7. Switch sides.
  8. Repeat for 2 to 3 sets per side.

Angelino points out, “You can also modify this exercise further for a deeper stretch by placing your back knee on the couch itself and your toes on the backrest of the couch. This allows your thigh to move even farther back behind you as you lunge down, leading to a more potent hip flexor stretch.”

Stretch 2: The Seated Figure-4 for Lower Back and Glute Relief

Do you have aches and pain in your lower back and/or glutes? Try this seated figure-4 stretch. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Begin seated on the couch with one foot planted flat on the ground and your knee bent.
  2. Lift your opposite leg and cross your ankle over the thigh of your grounded leg.
  3. Use your hands to hold your lifted leg in this position.
  4. Then, keeping your glutes firmly planted on the couch, bend forward while keeping your back flat.
  5. Hold for 30 to 45 seconds as you feel a solid stretch in your lower back and glutes.
  6. Switch sides.
  7. Repeat for 2 to 3 sets on each side.

Related: ‘I’m a Pilates Instructor—This Is the Best Move To Help With Stiff, Tight Hips’

Stretch 3: The Supported Chest Opener for Posture and Upper Back Tension

This final stretch serves as an effective chest opener for posture and addressing upper back tension. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Begin seated on the couch with your feet firmly planted on the ground.
  2. Keep your torso tall and lift your arms out in front of you to shoulder level.
  3. Gradually pull your arms out and back, focusing on bringing your shoulder blades together.
  4. Move your arms back as far as you’re comfortably able to without lifting your butt or changing your torso position.
  5. Hold for 30 to 45 seconds.
  6. Then, keeping your arms at shoulder level, gradually bring them forward and cross them around your body to give yourself a hug.
  7. Hold for 30 to 45 seconds.
  8. Repeat this sequence for 2 to 3 sets.

Related: This Is the Best Pilates Exercise for Stronger Glutes, According to Instructors

Common Mistakes To Avoid When Stretching on the Couch

When performing couch stretches, it’s important to avoid certain mistakes to ensure you’re getting the most out of your session. Here are some of the most common ones to avoid:

  • Allowing your glutes to come off of the couch. Keep your glutes planted on the surface during stretches where they’re supposed to stay on the couch so you can preserve your form.
  • Rushing through a stretch. Don’t rush from one motion to the next just to cross a stretch off the list. Keep in mind that how you get from point A to point B matters.
  • Placing your foot too far forward during the hip flexor stretch. According to Angelino, the perfect distance depends on the length of your limb, but you typically want to position your foot close enough that you feel stable in your starting position.
  • Letting your held leg drift forward during the seated figure 4 stretch. This makes the stretch all-around less effective. Angelino recommends using your hands to keep the leg in proper positioning while you bend.

Related: These One-Minute Stretches Can Work Wonders for People Over 50, According to Physical Therapists

How Often Should You Do These Stretches To See Relief?

Angelino recommends stretching five to six days a week, if possible. If that’s too challenging, strive for two to three days per week when just starting. After all, some stretching is better than none at all!

“It’s also worth keeping in mind that whether stretches give you relief or not will depend entirely [on] what specifically causes your discomfort,” Angelino stresses. “Some people, for example, have tight hip flexors. Some people’s hip flexors are totally fine. Stretches work best for muscles that are too tight. They won’t magically fix all pain, they just help if they align with the needs of your specific condition.”

It’s always wise to check in with your healthcare provider or a physical therapist before starting a new workout routine. Once you do and if you are fully cleared, happy stretching!

Up Next:

Sources:

Michael J. Fox Receives Two Standing Ovations During Emotional Emmys Speech: 'All of You Are So Uplifting'

Tue, 09/15/2026 - 9:49am

Michael J. Fox received a rare doubling standing ovation for his recent appearance at the 78th Emmy Awards on September 14.

Accepting the prestigious Bob Hope Humanitarian Award, Fox was formally acknowledged for his decades of work raising awareness for people living with Parkinson’s disease, as well as for advancing research into the medical condition.

As he took to the stage, the audience in attendance rose to their feet to applaud for Fox, with his former Good Wife co-star Julianna Margulies presenting him with the award.

Accepting the honor, Fox went out of his way to thank his wife of 30 years, Tracy Pollan, as well as their four adult children: Sam, Aquinnah, Schuyler and Esmé.

“I thank Tracy and our kids for their sacrifices, for their patience and for their love. You have no idea,” he said, similarly thanking his parents and siblings.

Moving ahead, Fox spoke about his initial reactions to being diagnosed with Parkinson’s, and the original worries he had over how the disease might affect his career.

“Initially, I kept my Parkinson’s diagnosis a secret,” the Back to the Future star said. “I worried that it would affect my work and my relationships with audiences. Would they laugh if they knew I was sick?”

After realizing how supportive his friends, family members and coworkers were when it came to addressing the condition, Fox felt confident enough to continue raising awareness about the disease.

“All of you are so uplifting and just made me feel like I could keep doing this,” Fox said. “I hadn’t lost what I do, and it couldn’t take it away from me. And it’s because you stood up for me.”

As he concluded his speech, the crowd in the Peacock Theater rose back to their feet to once again applaud Fox, marking his second standing ovation of the night.

1985 ‘Murder, She Wrote’ Episode, Ranked the Best in the Entire Series, Aired 41 Years Ago

Tue, 09/15/2026 - 9:45am

Murder, She Wrote was an iconic mystery series starring Angela Lansbury. It ran for 12 seasons, lasting from 1984 until 1996. TVLine recently ranked the best episodes of the series and named “Murder Takes the Bus” as the top episode.

“Murder Takes the Bus,” which aired during the show’s first season, followed Lansbury’s character as she traveled to a convention on a bus. When everyone was forced to take refuge from a storm at a diner, one of the passengers, an ex-convict, was murdered. Then, like always, she was forced to crack the case.

Related: 1960 ‘The Twilight Zone’ Episode Ranked Among ‘Best Endings Ever Written’ Was the Hardest To Film

Many fans on Reddit called this their favorite episode, with one saying, “Top ten episode for me. The autumn vibe, the music, the apple pie, and the screwdriver in the neck. The music is next level, too.” Another said, “There are some great guest stars, too! Linda Blair, Michael Constantine, Rue McClanahan, and a personally exciting one for me as a M*A*S*H fan: Larry Linville!”

During an interview with PEOPLE, Lansbury admitted that her iconic role was originally written for another actress. “Peter Fischer had originally written it for Jean Stapleton,” she explained. “But she had just lost her husband and didn’t want to do anything. When I read it, I felt that Peter’s script could have been written for me. Besides, there are so few decent roles for women on television, and I was immediately taken by Jessica.”

Related: ‘M*A*S*H’ Actress Dead of Natural Causes at 93

Lansbury also revealed that she was drawn to the character since she was a vital and intelligent middle-aged woman. “Attempting to bring off my own show is a great challenge,” she said. “If I can do it, at the age of 59, it will be a small miracle. I felt that it would have been a gap in my acting experience if I had never done a television series. I wanted to play to that huge audience just once.”

Lansbury died in 2022. She was only a few days away from turning 97.

Your Birth Date, Your Perfect Italian Dish

Tue, 09/15/2026 - 9:40am

Italian cuisine is beloved around the world for its rich flavors, comforting traditions, and unforgettable dishes. Whether you want a simple bowl of pasta or a slow-cooked meal that’s meant to be savored, chances are your favorite Italian dish says something about your personality.

According to numerology, the day you were born can reveal your greatest strengths, the qualities that are uniquely yours, and even the kinds of experiences that feel most fulfilling. From classic comfort foods to timeless regional favorites, here’s the Italian dish that best matches your birth date.

Each birth date is matched with their perfect Italian food that mirrors their likes, dislikes, and overall personality.

bit245 / Getty Images

Each Birth Date’s Signature Italian Dish

Check your birth date. Disregard birth months.

✦ Learn more about your birth date numerology ✦

Born on the…

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

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

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

Birthdays on the 1st, 10th, 19th, or 28th: Cacio e Pepe

Simple, bold, and unpretentious, Cacio e Pepe is the perfect Italian dish for anyone born on a date that reduces to the number 1, the leaders and trailblazers of numerology. This dish cuts out all the extra, unnecessary noise and relies strictly on a few basic ingredients, like sharp black pepper and aged cheese, to deliver strong flavors. There’s confidence that comes through this simplicity, much like this group of ambitious, self-reliant risk-takers.

Birthdays on the 2nd, 11th, 20th, or 29th: Risotto

People with a Number 2 birth date are peacemakers and caregivers who provide emotional warmth to everyone around them, making slow-cooked comfort foods like risotto a perfect match for their sweet and gentle disposition. Creamy, soothing, and made with patience and care, risotto is worth the time and energy it takes to bring the ingredients together, much like the harmonious nature and nurturing spirit of this group.

Birthdays on the 3rd, 12th, 21st, or 30th: Margherita Pizza

Margherita pizza might be the most perfect dish to serve at a party. It’s joyful, colorful, and brings people together, much like the qualities of those born on a date that reduces to the number 3. Unfussy and easy to prepare as well as share, this dish reflects the joy, optimism, and fun-loving nature of the people in this group. Like a Margherita pizza fresh from the oven, they make every gathering feel a little warmer and brighter.

Birthdays on the 4th, 13th, 22nd, or 31st: Lasagna

People born on a date that has the energy of 4 don’t mind putting in the work to make a delicious dish, and that’s why lasagna is a perfect Italian dish for this group. With its multiple steps and carefully layered ingredients, it’s a recipe that rewards patience and consistency for the time it takes to prepare. And it’s practical in the sense that lasagna provides a filling meal for a large family or big group of friends, which matters to this loyal, dependable group who will make sure no one leaves hungry.

Birthdays on the 5th, 14th, or 23rd: Spaghetti alle Vongole

For an adventurous group like those born on a date that reduces to 5, a vibrant dish bursting with a variety of flavors, like briny, garlicky, and aromatic, spaghetti alle vongole is perfect for their palate. Plus, this group can be somewhat impulsive and restless, always looking for the next thing to grab their attention, but this dish cooks up quickly and will be served far before they can get bored and move on to something else!

Birthdays on the 6th, 15th, or 24th: Eggplant Parmesan

This nurturing and compassionate group loves to make everyone feel cozy and cared for, so a cheesy baked casserole like eggplant parmesan is a wonderful way to evoke warmth and indulgence. Family and traditions are very important to those born with the energy of six, so they love to cook big batches of comfort food meant to be shared, and they will be sure to follow a treasured, passed-down recipe from someone they love.

Birthdays on the 7th, 16th, or 25th: Gnocchi al Pesto

Pillowy gnocchi paired with herbaceous, punchy green pesto is specific, thoughtful, and earthy—matching the earthy, pensive individuality of people born with the energy of 7. This group has unique, discerning taste and appreciates quality ingredients as well as the effort that goes into making this comforting yet distinctive dish. Their calm, grounded nature means this meal will be savored slowly and paired with an intentionally chosen beverage to round out the beautiful experience.

Birthdays on the 8th, 17th, or 26th: Osso Buco

People born on a date that reduces to 8 are disciplined, ambitious, and focused on long-term success, making an impressive dish like a long-braised osso bucco perfect for their sensibilities. Patient and persistent, they are more than happy to put in the work to cook something exceptional, knowing the final result will be worth the wait. Knowing that everyone else will be blown away by their talents when this dish is served is simply a bonus!

Birthdays on the 9th, 18th, or 27th: Minestrone

The humanitarians of numerology, those born on a date that reduces to 9, love a dish like minestrone because it is a hearty, comforting soup meant to feed and nourish many. This group also blends contrasting traits like their wisdom and playfulness, toughness and empathy, just as minestrone mixes varied textures like pasta, beans, and greens into a melding of flavors as one beautiful dish. And just as a good soup simmers for a long time to create complex flavors, a number 9 is considered an “old soul,” full of life experience!

UP NEXT:

1990 Soft Rock Ballad, Written by the Daughters of a Beach Boy and 2 Mamas & the Papas Stars, Hit No. 1 36 Years Ago Today

Tue, 09/15/2026 - 9:39am

Wilson Phillips’ “Release Me” reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 on Sept. 15, 1990, and stayed there for two weeks. It was the trio’s second No. 1 in a row, after “Hold On.”

The group was sisters Carnie Wilson and Wendy Wilson, plus their friend Chynna Phillips. Carnie and Wendy are the daughters of Beach Boys co-founder Brian Wilson and Marilyn Wilson of the girl group the Honeys. Chynna is the daughter of John Phillips and Michelle Phillips of the Mamas & the Papas.

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

They Grew Up Together

Carnie and Chynna were both born in 1968, and Wendy came a year later. Their fathers played basketball together, and their mothers brought the baby girls along to hang out while the dads were on the court. They were singing together by the time they were toddlers.

They Did Not Want to Make Dance Music

Richard Perry, the first producer to work with them, pictured them as a dance-pop act. They gave it a try, and it did not work.

“We tried to do it, but it sounded terrible. We said, ‘This is definitely not our bag,'” Carnie said in Fred Bronson’s The Billboard Book of Number 1 Hits. Perry introduced them to Glen Ballard, who produced their self-titled debut album and co-wrote “Hold On.”

The Song They Wrote Alone

Ballard had nothing to do with writing “Release Me.” Carnie said in an interview in 2020 that it was the only song the three of them ever wrote without a co-writer.

“We wrote ‘Release Me’ all together on my mom’s antique piano in her living room,” Chynna said.

She was going through a breakup at the time, and that gave her the idea for the first verse. She called Carnie and Wendy to come help, and the three finished the whole song in one day.

Carnie called it “the quintessential Wilson Phillips song.”

Two for Two

By the time “Release Me” hit No. 1, their debut album was already double platinum. It went on to be certified 5x platinum in the U.S. and earned the group five Grammy nominations, including Album of the Year, Song of the Year and Best New Artist.

The Beach Boys reached No. 1 four times, and the Mamas & the Papas got there once. Their daughters did it with their first two singles.

Bob Dylan Announces Massive New Release With 371 Never-Before-Heard Tracks

Tue, 09/15/2026 - 9:34am

Bob Dylan fans are about to get a staggering amount of unheard music from one of the most storied periods of the legendary singer-songwriter’s career.

On Tuesday, Sept. 15, Columbia Records and Legacy Recordings announced The Rolling Thunder Revue: The 1976 Live Recordings, a massive 39-CD collection arriving Nov. 6. The set contains 381 tracks, including a whopping 371 that have never been released before.

The collection captures the second leg of Dylan’s legendary Rolling Thunder Revue, which began April 18, 1976, in Lakeland, Fla., and concluded May 25 in Salt Lake City after 27 dates. Nearly all of those shows are represented among the previously unheard recordings.

A separate three-LP set featuring Dylan’s complete May 16, 1976, concert in Fort Worth, Texas, will also arrive Nov. 6. The 22-track concert has been remixed from the original multitrack tapes, and a live version of “Going, Going, Gone” from the show was released along with the announcement.

What’s Included in Bob Dylan’s New ‘Rolling Thunder Revue’ Box Set?

The sheer size of the new collection reflects just how much material was captured during the second Rolling Thunder run.

Dylan was joined by an extraordinary group of musicians, including bassist Rob Stoner, violinist Scarlet Rivera and drummer Howie Wyeth, all of whom had played on his 1976 No. 1 album Desire. The touring band also featured Mick Ronson, Steven Soles, David Mansfield and T Bone Burnett. Joan Baez reunited with Dylan for duets on songs including “Blowin’ in the Wind” and “Railroad Boy.”

Burnett makes a striking claim about the tour’s place in rock history in material accompanying the new release.

“The Rolling Thunder Revue was the first national punk rock tour,” Burnett recalls, arguing that it helped open the door for the explosion of music that followed from artists including The Clash, Elvis Costello, the Ramones and the Sex Pistols.

The box set also includes the complete May 23, 1976, Fort Collins, Colo., recording that produced the Hard Rain television special. In liner notes for the new collection, music journalist Mikal Gilmore singles out Dylan’s furious performance of “Idiot Wind” from the special as “among the most rageful and brilliant performances Dylan ever committed before camera.”

The enormous track list spans some of Dylan’s best-known songs, including “Mr. Tambourine Man,” “Maggie’s Farm,” “Blowin’ in the Wind,” “Lay, Lady, Lay,” “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door,” “Tangled Up in Blue” and “Shelter from the Storm,” along with traditional songs and material performed with Baez.

The Rolling Thunder Revue: The 1976 Live Recordings also comes with a booklet featuring Gilmore’s liner notes and rare photographs. Preorders begin Sept. 15, ahead of the collection’s Nov. 6 release.

Related: Forgotten Singer, Compared to Bob Dylan and Cat Stevens, Vanished for 30 Years—Then Was Found Alive

‘Chicago Fire’ Has a Chance To Reset Everything — And ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ Proves It Can Work

Tue, 09/15/2026 - 9:33am

When the Chicago Fire Season 14 finale aired, lives were left on the line, and now we have an idea of how it could play out. Joe Minoso is leaving the series after 14 seasons, and there are a few newer probies coming in. This opens the door for a risk that could be well worth taking.

Firehouse 51 has the opportunity to do a hard reset with its current cast shakeup. Younger characters help to keep the older generations on their toes. We’ve seen over the years how the odd younger firefighter can help to see solutions that others don’t see or are willing to take bigger risks, such as scaling buildings.

It doesn’t mean that the old ways have to disappear. Nor does it mean that the advice from the veterans is no good anymore. However, there’s a fresh energy.

‘Grey’s Anatomy’ Proves Fresh Energy Can Help

It’s always a risk to put the focus on newer characters at this stage of a show. Especially when it comes to multiple new characters while losing beloved OGs. However, Grey’s Anatomy has proven that it’s possible to do it well.

“Grey’s Anatomy” season 22 cast members Adelaide Kane, Harry Shum Jr., Midori Francis, Alexis Floyd, and Jake Borelli in a scene that aired in March 2026.

Anne Marie Fox. / Disney via Getty Images

After an initial flop with new interns around Grey’s Anatomy Season 14, the medical drama went back to the drawing board with the next set around Season 19. It wasn’t quite as great as MAGIC, but there were bonds being formed and young interns willing to learn from everyone around them.

We got backstories that allowed us to connect with them, getting to understand their mindsets, anxieties, and strengths in the hospital. Going into Season 23, there is a wish to learn a little more about them, and there’s still the big question about who Lucas’ mom is!

Chicago Fire can learn from the initial flop and then the success. The writers can see why and how people start to connect to individuals, wishing them well and wanting to see more of them.

Photo by: Peter Gordon/NBC via Getty Images

New Firehouse 51 Members Need to Connect to Others on ‘Chicago Fire’

While Chicago Fire Season 14 attempted to bring an element of a refresh with Sal Vasquez, much of the season became all about him and his family drama. He didn’t gel with most of the cast, except for the personal relationship drama with Novak and Violet.

For a real reset to work, the new probies need to form bonds with the people they can learn from. On Grey’s Anatomy, Lucas formed a bond with Nick Marsh, while Jules bonded with Beltran. They treated the likes of Bailey and Webber with the respect that they deserved, learning from their teachings, even if they didn’t think some of the rules were fair.

The probies on Chicago Fire can learn from Mouch, Herrmann, Kidd, and Severide. There’s a chance to still do their own thing and make mistakes, but they can gain mentors. We immediately fell in love with Ritter because of his connection to Mouch and Herrmann, learning from them while also reminding them that youth had its benefits as well.

Daniel Kyri, Christian Stolte, Miranda Rae Mayo

Photo by: Peter Gordon/NBC

Peter Mills and Blake Gallo took risks, but they also stepped back and admitted their mistakes when they made them. They listened to the likes of Severide and Casey, showing respect as well as personality. At first, Carver seemed to be a problem because of the history he had with Kidd, but things developed as he became a changed man, and we wanted to see him stick around and deal with his demons.

While I still think that it’s time for Herrmann or Mouch to retire, they’re not obsolete in the firehouse. Bringing in new blood threatens to make that true, but it doesn’t have to when the writing is done like Grey’s Anatomy.

A hard reset of the Firehouse 51 family helps to add fresh drama and new relationships. It should be a positive experience for all, especially if these characters are going to stick around, and while it is a risk, it is possible with the right mindset going in. Nothing is going to feel like the initial meeting of a found family, but different doesn’t necessarily mean bad.

Star of Netflix Series ‘Romantics Anonymous’ Dead at 44 After Private Battle With Cancer

Tue, 09/15/2026 - 9:28am

Yuri Nakamura, a Japanese-Korean star of the Netflix original series Romantics Anonymous, died on September 1 at the age of 44 after a battle with rectal cancer.

News of her passing was announced by her representatives at Alpha Agency.

“We express our deepest gratitude for the kindness shown to her during her lifetime and respectfully announce her passing,” the statement said (as translated by Deadline).

The agency further said Nakamura was first diagnosed with cancer in 2013. She went into remission, but found out the cancer had returned in January 2025, and despite surgery being performed, the disease had metastasised. In August, she was told she only had a short time left to live.

“She remained calm, maintaining a beautiful and gentle smile throughout her final moments with her family and loved ones,” Alpha Agency added. “While her 30s and 40s were often marked by battles with illness, she also experienced many wonderful encounters, happiness, and fulfilling moments. We express our heartfelt gratitude once again to all the fans who have warmly supported her, the staff who have helped her, and her fellow performers.”

Romantics Anonymous premiered in October 2025 and has amassed 103 million views on the streaming service, and it was number one on Netflix’s Japanese series chart. She also appeared in Love Letter From Heaven (2007), Like Father, Like Son (2013), and The 8-Year Engagement (2017).


Pages

New Haven Independent News

405 Charles Cook Plaza

New Haven, MO 63068

(573) 237-5600

nhnews2017@gmail.com