Parade

Fifty-two years ago, singer Carl Douglas released “Kung Fu Fighting”—a song that dominated global charts and became a staple of ’70s music despite initially being recorded as a simple track filler.

Released in August 1974 as the lead single from his debut studio album, Kung Fu Fighting and Other Great Love Songs, “Kung Fu Fighting” became a massive success. Upon its release, it jumped onto the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at No. 1 on December 7, 1974 for two consecutive weeks. Outside of America, the track topped charts in more than a dozen countries, solidifying it as an unshakable global phenomenon.

Commercially, the smash hit reached extraordinary levels of success. Since its release, “Kung Fu Fighting” has sold over 11 million copies worldwide, marking it as one of the best-selling singles of all time.

Jamaican singer Carl Douglas in a kung Kung Fu pose, on October 10, 1974.

Michael Putland/Getty Images

Although the song is commonly recognized as one of the biggest pop hits in history, it was almost relegated to a B-side. Douglas and producer Biddu recorded the song in just 10 minutes at the end of a session, considering it a throwaway album track. However, an executive at Pye Records stepped in and insisted the song be released as the main A-Side single. His intuition proved right, as the track’s popularity proliferated across the globe.

Douglas penned the track after seeing teenagers shadowboxing and mimicking martial arts moves in the streets of Soho, London. The singer brought the idea to Biddu, and the pair brought it to life, incorporating early disco grooves and novelty martial arts sound effects to create a captivating earworm.

“Kung Fu Fighting” further amplified the growing public fascination surrounding martial arts during the mid-1970s. The cultural movement gained momentum after blockbuster hits like Enter the Dragon (1973) and Five Fingers of Death (1972) were released, continuing to grow in popularity throughout the decade.

Over five decades since its release, “Kung Fu Fighting” maintains its worldwide popularity. In the digital era, it continues to persevere, effortlessly bridging the gap between generations on Spotify, where it has accumulated over 337 million streams.

Related: 1970 Rock Hit, Written in 15 Minutes in California, Was Inspired by a Christian Song

Bob Mackie was one of many who paid tribute to Dolly Parton following her death at the age of 80. His kind words came just a few weeks before he died at 87 of pneumonia.

“Dolly was a lovely soul and spirit who was fair to everyone. She was a joy and pleasure to dress,” he wrote on Instagram. “You will be missed. With love, Bob Mackie xo.”

The post also included photos of the original designs for some of Parton’s most iconic looks that were designed by Mackie through the years. Among the outfits he made for her was the butterfly gown she wore during the 1979 TV special “Dolly & Carol in Nashville.” The look now lives in the Dolly Archive, a 50,000-square-foot vault of rhinestoned jumpsuits and high-heeled cowboy boots.

As for Mackie, news of his passing was shared on social media.

“It is with a heavy heart that we share the news that Mr. Bob Mackie passed away today. He lived his 87 years to the fullest, fulfilling his dream of being a Fashion and Costume Designer, which is all he ever wanted to do,” read a post on his Instagram account. “His genius and extraordinary designs will live on forever, continuing to bring beauty into this world.”

Along with Parton, his celebrity clients included Cher, Carol Burnett, Diana Ross, Tina Turner, Bernadette Peters, Bette Midler, Mitzi Gaynor, Liza Minnelli, Elton John, RuPaul, and many others. His flashy designs also earned him the nicknames of Sultan of Sequins, the Rajah of Rhinestones, and the Guru of Glitter.

Burnett and Elton John were some of the many who remembered Mackie for his legendary career.

“I’m so sad to hear of @bobmackie’s passing,” Elton John wrote. “Every time I put something on that Bob made, I felt very, very special. His costumes were works of art, and he will go down as one of the most legendary designers ever in Hollywood. Bob had extraordinary vision and the workmanship was unreal. I don’t think I ever wore a Bob Mackie outfit and had anything fall off – not a sequin or a rhinestone or anything. His clothes were made so beautifully. He loved glamour like I love glamour, but more than anything, we shared the same sense of humour and had so much fun together.

“In a sea of ego, he seemed to have none. One of the most courteous, incredible people I ever had the pleasure of working with,” he continued. “Thank you, Bob ❤️”

Lucy DeVito, the daughter of Danny DeVito and Rhea Perlman, is so beautiful alongside her famous dad.

Lucy, 43, may be the daughter of the Cheers icon and the It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia star, but she’s a rising starlet in her own right. With a hefty acting resume that includes a stint on The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel and the Hulu series Deadbeat, Lucy is taking on Hollywood in her own style. Lucy joined her dad at the 2026 “FX and Vanity Fair Emmy Party” at the Chateau Marmont, and you can see both of her parents clear as day in her face.

Frank Micelotta / Getty Images

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

What Has Danny DeVito Said About Parenting?

Danny DeVito has frequently spoken about the joy he’s found as a parent.

“I have been very fortunate in my life,” he told The Guardian. “I have had a lot of happiness. I have a great family and I work a lot, and that’s what I like to do.”

Last year, Lucy got married, and her father called the event “a supreme highlight of my life,” adding that the newlyweds “are very happy.”

“It was great. It was amazing, wonderful,” DeVito told People at the It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia PaleyLive 20th anniversary event. “…We just had a good time. You make the speech and the whole thing. It was very emotional and really cool.”

Lucy and her husband are already parents to a daughter, making Danny a grandfather!

What Was It Like Having Rhea Perlman and Danny DeVito as Parents?

 Despite having parents that the entire world knew, Lucy and Jake DeVito have made it clear that their parents kept their childhoods as normal as possible. In an interview with the Associated Press, Jake shared that it was a “great growing up experience for us.”

“They were really good about keeping our home really solid and safe,” he noted, adding that their parents were particularly protective when it came to the media.

There are few grocery store shortcuts as useful as a rotisserie chicken. For around the price of an uncooked bird, you can walk out of the store with dinner already made. Eat it straight from the container with a couple of sides, or pull the meat off the bones and use it for everything from chicken salad and tacos to soups and casseroles.

Of course, not every grocery store rotisserie chicken is created equal. Some are juicy with nicely roasted skin, while others can be dry, overly salty or so heavily seasoned that they’re harder to repurpose for another meal. And with seemingly every major supermarket and warehouse club selling its own version, deciding where to buy one isn’t necessarily as obvious as it sounds.

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

We asked six chefs to name their favorite grocery store rotisserie chicken and explain what makes it better than the others they’ve tried. Their answers touched on everything from seasoning and texture to ingredients, freshness and versatility.

The chefs didn’t unanimously agree on one store, but there was a clear favorite. In fact, half independently chose the same place—and their reasons might have you reconsidering where you pick up your next rotisserie chicken.

The Purist’s Pick: Why 3 Chefs Chose Whole Foods

Smith Collection/Gado / Getty Images

Whole Foods earned the most votes for best rotisserie chicken with three of our six experts naming it their favorite. Its Organic Classic Rotisserie Chicken keeps things simple with organic chicken, organic black pepper and sea salt.

That was one reason Adam Gallagher, co-founder and recipe developer at Inspired Taste, chose it. “The chicken itself is flavorful without being overly seasoned, which I really appreciate,” he says.

Shawna Clark, founder, recipe developer and chef at Healthy Foodie Girl, had a similar take. “I love that it tastes like delicious, seasoned roasted chicken with such a simple ingredient list,” she says.

The chefs were fans of the texture as well. Gallagher describes the meat as “juicy and tender” and says the skin gets “the perfect roasted flavor.” Chef Shari Lynne Robins, owner of SHARIGATO in Charlotte, North Carolina, praised its “tender and juicy” meat and “crispy golden-brown skin.”

Whole Foods also works well if you’re buying a rotisserie chicken to use in another recipe. Gallagher uses it to save time when making chicken pot pie, while Clark uses it in salads, sandwiches, soups, wraps and casseroles.

Related: 5 Chefs Reveal the Best Frozen Pizzas They Actually Buy Themselves

The Dependable Favorite: What Sam’s Club Gets Right

JHVEPhoto / Getty Images

Sam’s Club earned two votes from our experts. Chef Phillip Dewayne of Park + Cherry at Dixon Gallery and Gardens says consistency is what keeps him coming back. “The chicken is always well-seasoned, juicy and has that nicely roasted skin you want from a rotisserie chicken,” he says. “It also has enough flavor to eat on its own without needing to dress it up.”

Executive chef and food blogger Dennis Littley, better known as Chef Dennis of Ask Chef Dennis, picked Sam’s Club as well, with Publix coming in second. “A good rotisserie chicken has to be flavorful and well-seasoned, but most importantly, the meat needs to stay juicy and tender,” he says. “Sam’s Club consistently delivers on that, and it’s also a great value for the size of the chicken.”

Dewayne appreciates the seasoning for another reason. Because it’s savory and balanced, he can pull the meat and use it for chicken salad, soups, pasta, tacos or a quick dinner without the original seasoning taking over the dish. As Dewayne puts it, Sam’s Club is “simple, dependable and flavorful, which is exactly what a good rotisserie chicken should be.”

The Freshness Factor: Costco’s Unexpected Advantage

Bloomberg / Getty Images

Costco only received one vote, from Chef Michael Feker, chef, restaurateur and founder of Il Mito. Surprisingly, it wasn’t the warehouse club’s famously low price or large chickens that won him over. It was how quickly Costco sells them.

“What matters to me is turnover,” Feker says. “They move a tremendous number of chickens, which means you have a much better chance of getting one that has just come off the rotisserie rather than one that has been sitting, drying out or repeatedly held hot.”

Overseasoning is one of Feker’s biggest complaints with grocery store rotisserie chickens. Instead, he likes to add his own finishing touches at home. He squeezes fresh lemon juice over the chicken, rubs it lightly with olive oil, and adds the squeezed lemon and a few sprigs of fresh rosemary to the cavity. Then, he puts the chicken in a 500°F oven for about four to five minutes.

“That blast of heat wakes everything back up, releases the rosemary oils, brightens the chicken with acidity and refreshes the exterior,” Feker says.

Related: The 11 Best French Groceries to Buy at Costco (and 3 to Skip)

The Warning Label: Are Supermarket Chickens Injected With Sodium?

UCG / Getty Images

Some supermarket chickens do contain added solutions, but they’re not necessarily injected. According to the USDA, solutions can be added to poultry through methods including marinating, basting, injecting and vacuum tumbling.

There’s also a distinction between an added solution and water absorbed during processing. Poultry can take on water while being chilled, which the USDA classifies as retained water rather than an added ingredient.

Sodium levels can differ considerably from one rotisserie chicken to another too. Whole Foods, for example, lists 300 milligrams of sodium per 3-ounce serving of its Organic Classic Rotisserie Chicken. Its Organic Plain Rotisserie Chicken contains just 55 milligrams per 3-ounce serving. If you’re watching your sodium intake, it’s worth comparing the nutrition labels and ingredient lists before choosing a chicken.

How Long Does Rotisserie Chicken Last in the Fridge?

Tim Boyle / Getty Images

Rotisserie chicken doesn’t have a particularly long shelf life once you bring it home. According to the USDA, cooked chicken should be eaten within three to four days when stored in a refrigerator at 40°F or below.

If you won’t finish it in time, you can freeze the leftovers instead. Just don’t wait until they’ve already been sitting in the refrigerator for a week—the USDA recommends freezing cooked chicken within that same three-to-four-day window.

It’s also not a good idea to use smell alone to decide whether leftover chicken is safe to eat. Harmful bacteria don’t necessarily change the smell, taste or appearance of food, so chicken can seem perfectly normal even when it’s no longer safe. Keeping track of how long it’s been in the fridge is more reliable than giving it a sniff a few days later.

Final Thoughts

Even chefs don’t cook everything from scratch, and a store-bought rotisserie chicken is one shortcut they’re happy to take. With plenty of options sitting under the heat lamps, though, it pays to be a little picky about which bird you bring home.

Sources:

• Adam Gallagher is the co-founder and recipe developer at Inspired Taste.
• Shawna Clark is the founder, recipe developer and chef at Healthy Foodie Girl.
• Chef Shari Lynne Robins is the chef and owner of SHARIGATO.
• Chef Phillip Dewayne is the chef at Park + Cherry at Dixon Gallery and Gardens.
• Dennis Littley (Chef Dennis) is an executive chef and food blogger at Ask Chef Dennis.
• Chef Michael Feker is a chef, restaurateur and founder of Il Mito.

Related: We Asked 3 Chefs the Best Thing To Make With Canned Pinto Beans, and They All Said the Same Thing

Netflix and Sega are turning Crazy Taxi, the 1999 arcade game about a cabbie racing the clock, into a live-action comedy movie.

The two companies announced the project Monday, Sept. 14, as one of three Sega adaptations in the works. Dan Gregor and Doug Mand, who wrote the 2025 reboot of The Naked Gun, are writing the script.

Neal H. Moritz and Toby Ascher of Original Film are producing with Sega’s Toru Nakahara. That is the same team behind the live-action Sonic the Hedgehog movies.

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

The Punk Soundtrack

The game came to home consoles in 2000. London’s Victoria and Albert Museum, which has it in its collection, calls it notable for its soundtrack, which featured the punk bands The Offspring and Bad Religion.

Sega is bringing that music back for a new game, Crazy Taxi: World Tour, which it revealed in June. The Offspring’s “All I Want” and “Change the World” are among the original songs returning, along with Bad Religion’s “Them and Us” and “Inner Logic.”

The music even made it into the producers’ statement.

“This film is for anyone who’s spent hours behind the wheel of a yellow cab on their Dreamcast, with the music cranked up, smashing through everything in sight just to make the next fare,” Moritz and Ascher said.

Nakahara said fans should look for something “hilariously crazy.” The movie should arrive after World Tour launches next year.

Two More Sega Projects

Netflix is also making a new Sonic animated series aimed at preschoolers, following its earlier show Sonic Prime. The other project is a live-action crime film based on Stranger Than Heaven, an upcoming game set in early 20th-century Japan from RGG Studio, the developer behind Like a Dragon.

“The fandoms of these games deserve storytelling that honors what makes each title special, and we know Netflix shares that commitment,” Sega COO Shuji Utsumi said.

Related: ’90s Punk Rock Band Reunites With Iconic 1999 Arcade Classic as It Makes Long-Awaited Return

Listen, I know that pies are a thing year-round, but those buttery crusts and fruit fillings just feel so very fall to me. Probably because, in my humble opinion, there’s no greater holiday for pie than Thanksgiving. Whether you’re dishing up pumpkin, apple, pecan or sweet potato—it’s just an occasion built for pie. And if you’ve been using disposable aluminum pie plates to bake your favorite variety this entire time, your dessert of choice is ready for an upgrade that’s a little more aesthetically pleasing.

Hey, if cakes can have dedicated cake stands, then pies deserve something pretty, too. I get it—maybe you won’t see that charming design at the bottom of a pie plate until the last bite has been taken, but isn’t looking at a lovely floral print better than just seeing a pile of crumbs? Yes, yes it is.

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

Holly Williams Fall Floral Print Pie Plate, $8 at Dollar General

Dollar General

Fortunately, you don’t have to spend an arm and a leg to get a lovely, fall-inspired pie plate on your table. Dollar General’s Holly Williams Fall Floral Print Pie Plate is only $8 and measures 9.5 inches in diameter—that’s the average size for a pie, serving roughly six to eight people. The edges of the plate have a soft, ruffled indentation that always makes a pie look that much more inviting.

Related: World Market’s Fluted 3-Tier Rolling Cart Is Such a Chic Storage Solution

That ruffled edge on a pie plate isn’t just there to make it look cute (although, let’s be honest, it does). The fluted rim gives you a natural guide for shaping and crimping your pie crust, helping keep the dough in place while giving the finished pie that classic homemade look. It’s one of those little design details that’s as practical as it is pretty, and after generations of bakers using those signature ridges, a fluted pie plate just feels like the proper place to bake a pie.

If you’re in the fall decorating mood, Dollar General has more than just this Holly Williams pie dish to get you in the autumnal spirit. The retailer is selling really beautiful pumpkin-shaped glass jars that can be used to store small items or just look sweet sitting on a mantel as decoration. These also retail for $8 apiece.

Related: Target’s New $15 Stoneware Berry Bowl Is All Dressed Up in a Gorgeous Fall Shade

Nearly 60 years ago, a swarm of law enforcement officers swarmed The Doors on stage in the middle of a New England concert, taking singer Jim Morrison into custody before the beloved band could finish their set.

The late musician is believed to be the first rocker to ever be taken into custody mid-performance (though he certainly was not the last musician to run into trouble with the law in his own so-called line of duty).

Morrison’s colleague and The Doors guitarist Robby Krieger recounted his version of the evening in his 2021 memoir, Set the Night on Fire: Living, Dying, and Playing Guitar With the Doors.

Sometime before taking the stage in the old New Haven Arena in New Haven, Conn., on Dec. 9, 1967, the musician was passing time in the band’s dressing room when he heard his colleague screaming from somewhere else backstage. The lot of them “all went running” to track down the singer and found him “yelling at some cops and the cops yelling back.”

As the story goes, an officer stumbled upon Morrison making out with his date in the bathroom and didn’t recognize him as the headliner. “Jim allegedly mouthed off, and the cop allegedly sprayed him with Mace,” Krieger wrote. Allegedly aside, he “had no problem believing the story,” noting that “Jim loved mouthing off to cops, and cops loved having an excuse.”

At the time, Morrison and the cop went their separate ways, but the law was just biding its time. The band went on stage, where Morrison eventually went on “his now-famous rant about the little blue man in the little blue suit with the little blue cap who had temporarily blinded him backstage,” riling up the crowd while the other members of the band played on behind him. Little did they know, “dozens of police officers [were] waiting in the shadows.”

Suddenly the house lights came up and the police “marched onto the stage.” Krieger recalls Morrison offering the lieutenant his mic, telling him, “Say your thing, man.” Krieger had no idea what was coming. “What were they going to do, arrest him? Onstage? In the middle of a show? For telling a completely true story?” he mused.

As a matter of fact, yes, and the rest of The Doors and their fans were left in shock, “freezing up without any idea what to do.” After all, as is believed, “there was literally no precedent for this.”

Ultimately, Morrison was released on bail (and his reported charges of public obscenity, indecency, breach of peace, and resisting arrest were dropped) and would go on to tussle with the law several more times—including additional charges of lewd and lascivious behavior, indecent exposure, profanity and drunkenness stemming from a 1969 performance in Miami, during which he was also arrested—before he died at just 27 years old in the summer of 1971.

Several other big names in music have been taken into custody at their own shows, though many officers have avoided making a scene by arresting them backstage following the conclusion of the concerts.

Janis Joplin was charged with vulgar and obscene language in Tampa, Fla. after a Nov. 1969 concert in which she told off police mid-show for trying to control her audience. Those charges were dropped, but not until she’d already spent a night in jail.

Joe Strummer, of The Clash, was taken into custody in Germany in the ’80s, too, after letting his frustration with an unruly audience member get the best of him and thwacking him on the head with his guitar, catching an assault charge.

The Who’s Pete Townshend also spent a night in jail in 1969 after mistaking a plainclothesman attempting to warn the New York City venue of a smoldering backstage fire for a fan bumrushing the stage, kicking the officer in the crotch as he climbed up toward the microphone.

60 years after its release, The Beach Boys‘ beloved love song, “God Only Knows,” off of the group’s 11th album, Pet Sounds, is getting spotlighted for its impact on the pop genre.

Collider recently put the 1966 tune, which Brian Wilson co-wrote with Tony Asher, at the top of the publication’s ranking of “The 25 Best Pop Songs of All Time.” According to Collider, “God Only Knows” is deserving of the title of the “Best Pop Song of All Time” largely because of its lyrics about the realistic possibility of a breakup, which does not often appear in a romantic number.

Other pop songs included on Collider‘s ranking are “In My Life” by The Beatles from 1965, 1963’s “Be My Baby” by The Ronettes, “Waterloo Sunset” by The Kinks (1967), Taylor Swift‘s “Style,” released in 2014, and “Fast Car” by Tracy Chapman (1988).

Tony Asher and Brian Wilson Discussed Co-Writing ‘God Only Knows’

In an interview about the making of “God Only Knows,” Wilson, who died in 2025 at the age of 82, said the track is “a deep love song because Tony Asher had a lot of love in his heart, and he wrote great love lyrics.” In addition, Wilson said that he believed the song’s opening of “‘I may not always love you’ was the great line that he wrote.”

While also discussing “God Only Knows,” Asher explained he penned the track’s unexpected opening line because he wasn’t interested in making “another love song.”

“So that’s how when I would come up with a line like ‘I may not always love you,'” said Asher, now 87.

He also said he believed Wilson may have initially been a bit skeptical about the line.

“Brian might have said at the time, ‘What?’ But he would have only said it once. And if I said, ‘Don’t worry, Brian, that’s a good line.’ He would have said, ‘Okay,'” said Asher.

In a separate interview, uploaded on his official Facebook page in May 2026, Wilson shared that he and Asher spent only “about an hour” writing “God Only Knows.”

“It came very fast. It came like that,” said Wilson while snapping.

He also said that he and Asher immediately knew that “God Only Knows,” which secured the number 39 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 in September 1966, was destined to be something special.

“We were both astonished by it. We said, ‘We have a classic song on our hands here.’ And I almost got tears. It was like a beautiful tune that we had written together,” said Wilson.

Emily Blunt and John Krasinski’s daughters are growing up and looking more and more like their famous mom.

The longtime couple made one of their rare public appearances with daughters Hazel, 12, and Violet, 10, while attending the U.S. Open in New York. Blunt and Krasinski have largely kept their children away from the spotlight, but the annual tennis tournament has become something of a family tradition.

This time, the girls showed just how much they’ve grown since their previous courtside appearances, and both look strikingly like Blunt.

Emily Blunt, John Krasinski in the stands on Day Fifteen of the 2026 US Open at USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center on Sunday, September 13, 2026 in Flushing, NY. (Photo by Shea Kastriner/USTA via Getty Images)

Krasinski, 46, wore a simple vertical black striped polo, while Blunt, 43, opted for a bold orange tank top. Hazel and Violet sat alongside their parents watching the action before photos captured the girls turning their attention toward something Blunt was showing them on her phone.

READ MORE: Julia Roberts’ Rarely-Seen Daughter, 21, Is Her Twin In New Photos

Krasinski previously explained that his approach to juggling Hollywood and fatherhood is actually pretty straightforward.

“Honestly, the simple answer is ‘kids and family first,’” he said during an interview with CBS Mornings. “One of us is always home with the kids. And listen, we bring those kids wherever we’re shooting and wherever we can spend time with them.”

He has gone to some serious lengths to stick to that rule. While filming the first season of Jack Ryan in Montreal, Krasinski flew to London every weekend to see his family while Blunt was working on Mary Poppins Returns. “Family for me, it’s a non-negotiable thing,” he previously told People.

Blunt has been equally protective of Hazel and Violet’s privacy—and once revealed that she hoped they could remain unaware of their parents’ celebrity for as long as possible.

“We’ve never said that word in our house,” Blunt told The Sunday Times of fame, recalling her surprise when Hazel once returned from school and asked, “Are you famous?”

Discover which old proverb or quote speaks to your soul, based on your birth date, and see what this timeless piece of wisdom reveals about who you are and your divine path.

Proverbs are famous for their concise wisdom. These typically short yet impactful sayings are widely beloved because the most popular old proverbs still resonate even today. Although many old proverbs are passed down from generation to generation, there’s one that resonates with you. This old proverb captures your wisdom and spirituality because it aligns with your birth date.

According to experts and numerologists, your birth date aligns with a single-digit number between 1 and 9. All birth dates are lumped together based on sharing the same single-digit number. So, a single-digit number that resonates with your birth date’s group captures your wisdom, personal vibration, and date group. This means different birth date groups have different old proverbs. Some groups have proverbs that speak to initiation and action, while other groups are associated with emotionally deep proverbs. Read on to discover your old proverb for birth dates 1-31.

Your Old Proverb, Based on Your Birth Date

Check if your date of birth is listed. Disregard birth months.

Born on the 1st, 10th, 19th, and 28th: “The early bird catches the worm.”

Action-oriented individuals are born on the 1st, 10th, 19th, and 28th. Numerologists believe these birth dates embody the courage and bravery of 1, while astrologers say these birth dates resonate with the willpower of the sun. Both spiritual forces come together to lend these birth dates adventure, enthusiasm, and excitement. People born on these dates are the true embodiment of the proverb, “The early bird catches the worm.” Their proverb affirms that there’s nothing these birth dates won’t readily do, try, or begin in the pursuit of success.

NEXT: 4 Birth Months You Can Trust With Your Deepest Secrets

Born on the 2nd, 11th, 20th, and 29th: “The squeaky wheel gets the grease.”

Emotional people have birthdays on the 2nd, 11th, 20th, and 29th, since these birth dates align with the moon. According to astrology, the moon rules over intuition and emotion. This energy is amplified by 2, which is the most sensitive number in numerology. Having one of these temperamental birth dates means resonating with the proverb, “The squeaky wheel gets the grease.” This funny saying reminds these birth dates that speaking up is the easiest way to receive the support and emotional validation they seek. 

RELATE?: 4 Birth Months Gearing Up for a Major Career Shift This Fall

Born on the 3rd, 12th, 21st, and 30th: “Strike while the iron is hot.”

There’s no time like the present for people born on the 3rd, 12th, 21st, and 30th. Astrologers say Jupiter—the planet of luck and expansion—gives these birth dates an insatiable appetite. Numerologists also add that 3 imparts creativity and expressiveness. There’s no doubt that these birth dates are open-minded, explorative individuals who dive right in. “Strike while the iron is hot” is their personal motto. This old proverb amplifies their confidence, as they explore new avenues and start new projects when the inspiration strikes.

Born on the 4th, 13th, 22nd, and 31st: “Rome wasn’t built in a day.”

Individuals with strong work ethics are typically born on the 4th, 13th, 22nd, and 31st. They’re guided by 4, which is associated with determination, success, and ambition. On top of that, these birth dates also rely on Uranus for innovation and stimulation. People born on these dates aren’t afraid to roll up their sleeves and get to work, so they’re aligned with the phrase, “Rome wasn’t built in a day.” This old proverb speaks volumes to their tenacity and perseverance, as these birth dates work hard building their Roman empires.

Born on the 5th, 14th, and 23rd: “Curiosity killed the cat, but satisfaction brought it back.”

Seeking answers and getting confirmation matters for those born on the 5th, 14th, and 23rd. Mercury and 5 co-rule these birth dates, so these individuals are deeply curious. They want to know and experience everything, so they’re attuned with the proverb, “Curiosity killed the cat, but satisfaction brought it back.” People born on these dates might even be delighted to discover that this saying is technically the full, correct proverb. Regardless, this saying affirms that these birth dates will never be disappointed if they’re willing to try and learn anything.

Born on the 6th, 15th, and 24th: “Actions speak louder than words.”

Building reciprocal relationships is important for those who have birthdays on the 6th, 15th, and 24th. These birth dates align with Venus, the astrological planet of relationships and love. This energy is amplified by 6, which imparts reciprocity, balance, and harmony to these birth dates. People born on these dates will do anything for their loved ones, but will their loved ones do the same? “Actions speak louder than words” is their perfect proverb, because it helps these birth dates remember that their loved ones’ actions mean more than empty promises.  

Born on the 7th, 16th, and 25th: “Still water runs deep.”

Those born on the 7th, 16th, and 25th are spiritually profound. Some may say these people are hermits, because they resonate with 7’s introspectiveness. But these birth dates need plenty of alone time to tap into their spiritual wisdom bestowed by Neptune, the astrological planet of mysticism. Thankfully, the old proverb, “Still water runs deep,” perfectly encapsulates their depth. People born on these dates are deeply connected with this saying. It captures their reflectiveness and complexity, while also paying homage to their solitary personalities.

Born on the 8th, 17th, and 26th: “The grass is always greener on the other side.”

People born on the 8th, 17th, and 26th grew up hearing, “The grass is always greener on the other side.” These birth dates are governed by 8 and Saturn, so they’re no stranger to intense karmic lessons regarding wealth, success, and opportunity. Although they’re undoubtedly accomplished, these birth dates do wonder what things would be like if the shoe were on the other foot. Their proverb reminds them that things aren’t always as they seem. Instead of wishing for something else or projecting their fantasies, their proverb reminds these birth dates to find the silver lining in their own lives.

MORE: Your Perfect Autumn Comfort Food, According to Your Birth Date

Born on the 9th, 18th, and 27th: “Always put your best foot forward.”

If anyone needs to hear this proverb, it’s someone born on the 9th, 18th, and 27th. Individuals born on these dates are ruled by 9, which is a powerful number that represents completion and higher consciousness. This energy is enhanced by Mars, the astrological planet of action. People born on these dates want to go the distance and do their very best. However, they can be their own worst critics. “Always put your best foot forward” reminds these birth dates that the best they can do is try. As long as they put in effort, they will not fail.

UP NEXT:

Some movie premises are so preposterous it’s a wonder they ever made it to the screen. Then there is Face/Off.

Released on June 27, 1997, the John Woo action thriller stars John Travolta as FBI agent Sean Archer, a man consumed with bringing terrorist Castor Troy (Nicolas Cage) to justice after Troy kills Archer’s young son. When Troy is left comatose after a confrontation, Archer agrees to an outlandish procedure: His face is surgically removed and replaced with Troy’s so he can impersonate the terrorist and extract information from Troy’s imprisoned brother.

Then Troy wakes up.

He takes Archer’s face for himself, leaving the two men trapped inside each other’s identities, and Travolta and Cage with the wonderfully bizarre assignment of essentially playing each other.

“The two actors worked together so well,” Woo told Vulture. “They spent about two or three weeks rehearsing with each other. They were imitating each other, walking and talking-even the laughs, the crying, everything. They made it a lot of fun.”

It shouldn’t work. Instead, Face/Off became one of the most acclaimed action movies of the decade. Even Woo confessed that his initial aim was to make the film a comedy.

“I started to make it like a comedy,” revealed Woo. “Or a comedylike movie, not a real comedy. I’m a big fan of MAD magazine. The characters in my movies sometimes feel like characters from there. The whole thing is so ridiculous. People who can change their faces — it’s so unreal. But I had to make it a believable story, so that’s why I let my actors be carefree and do whatever they wanted.” 

The movie arrived at an interesting point in both actors’ careers. Travolta had experienced an extraordinary comeback with 1994’s Pulp Fiction, while Cage was in the middle of an astonishing action-movie run that included The Rock in 1996 and Con Air, released just weeks before Face/Off. Under Woo’s direction, the two actors were given permission to go big. And they did.

According to Travolta, the ongoing communication between Cage and himself during the filming of the movie was essential to pulling it all off.

“We had to discuss all the pieces of the puzzle and how to connect the dots, constantly,” he said in a later interview. “Because we couldn’t do something that the other guy would feel uncomfortable about doing later, you know, we had to be very aware and respectful.” 

Audiences went along for the ride. Made for approximately $80 million, Face/Off opened at No. 1 at the domestic box office and ultimately earned about $246 million worldwide. It also received an Academy Award nomination for Best Sound Effects Editing.

The success of the film could be largely contributed to John Woo’s excellent direction. In 2023 The Guardian calls Face/off “the movie that is arguably the most popular, and inarguably the most bonkers, of [Woo’s] career.” When asked if he learned something different the second time around of working with Woo, Travolta spoke with generous praise about the director.

“I think I always learn something from John, but, it just solidified how amazing he really is as a talent and a director,” said Travolta. “He takes such good care of you. A. He allows you the freedom to create whatever character you want, but then on top of it, he knows how to film it, like nobody’s business.”

Nearly three decades later, what might easily have become a dated piece of 1990s excess has instead emerged as a celebrated classic of the genre. In 2024, SYFY declared that Face/Off remains one of the “wildest, and best” action movies of the ’90s. In the same year, the British Film Institute chose Face/Off as its great action film representing 1997 in a year-by-year survey of a century of action cinema. Another recent retrospective noted that the 27-year-old film still holds its own against contemporary action movies.

The numbers tell much the same story. Face/Off currently boasts a 93% critics score on Rotten Tomatoes and an 82 Metascore, indicating “Universal Acclaim.” Rotten Tomatoes also ranks the film among its essential movies of the 1990s.

Face/Off has survived because people still embrace its audacity, but this wouldn’t be possible without the complete commitment of the actors to the film’s outlandish premise and, arguably, their unparalleled talent. Put simply, the movie can be absurd because Travolta and Cage never treat it as a joke.

A 2023 review in The Guardian said, ” ‘Subtle’ is not a word often used in relation to Cage, Travolta, Woo or Face/Off, but such big performances mean it’s easy to overlook how all this absurdity is actually somewhat believable. There’s not one second where it feels as though Nicolas Cage is doing a John Travolta parody, or vice versa. Therein lies the key to Face/Off: absolute conviction.”

The premise remains absurd. The performances remain gloriously over the top. And somehow, Face/Off remains irresistible.

Related: 1974 Country Rock Song, Covered by Glen Campbell, Became a Breakthrough Radio Hit 

The 2026 Emmys are finally here. After a long awards season, and an even longer gap between Emmy seasons, the ceremony will air tonight at 8:00 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock. With genre shows like A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms and Pluribus vying for recognition, and strong new seasons of The Pitt and Slow Horses on the minds of voters, it’s bound to be a jam-packed night. Hopefully, it’s also one full of milestones and surprises, which always makes awards season more enjoyable.

With the 78th Primetime Emmy Awards sure to shake things up, here are 10 of the best Emmy wins of all time, and one that still doesn’t make any sense. 

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

Mariska Hargitay: Law & Order: SVU Season 7 (2006) Mariska Hargitay.

Getty Images

While Law & Order: Special Victims Unit may not seem like a major Emmy contender in a world now dominated by prestige television, the series has always been a hit with audiences. Anchored by a career-defining performance from Mariska Hargitay, the show took itself to new heights during its seventh season. In the episode “911,” a call comes in from a little girl named Maria (Jeanine Monterroza), as Hargitay’s Olivia Benson is about to leave work. Though her colleagues see it as a ruse, Olivia dedicates her night to Maria, whom she will stop at nothing to save. With this performance, the actress won Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series, and became the first regular cast member to win an Emmy for any Law & Order series.

Related: Who Will Win at the 2026 Emmys? Our Final Predictions for Every Major Category

Tramell Tillman: Severance Season 2 (2025) Tramell Tillman in ‘Severance’

Apple TV+

Chock-full of fantastic performances, Severance is undeniably one of the best shows of the decade. But in an expansive cast, there is one that stands out, despite it coming from a supporting performer. As Seth Milchick, Tramell Tillman is sly, witty, and at times, downright terrifying. He imbues each scene he’s in with an uneasiness that permeates throughout the entire show, often flipping it on its head and turning this sci-fi into a full-on horror. For the show’s second season, Tillman defied the odds and won Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama, beating out Walton Goggins for The White Lotus and his own co-star John Turturro. With this win, Tilman became the first Black actor to ever hoist the award, a long overdue achievement.

Anna Sawai: Shogun Season 1 (2024) Anna Sawai as Mariko in ‘Shōgun’

Courtesy of FX

In a series where male characters were largely the focus, Anna Sawai’s Toda Mariko is the Shogun character that resonated with audiences the most. A Catholic convert who serves as a translator between John Blackthorne (Cosmo Jarvis) and Lord Yoshii Toranaga (Hiroyuki Sanada), Mariko wields her knowledge like a sword, using it to keep herself safe and prop herself up as higher in society. While she starred in Apple TV’s Pachinko and Monarch: Legacy of Monsters, Shogun is where the actress truly broke through, as proved later by her historic Emmy night. With her Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series win, Sawai became the first Japanese actress to win any Primetime Emmy award.

Related: How Anna Sawai Is Reframing Yoko Ono in the Upcoming Beatles Biopics

Viola Davis: How to Get Away With Murder Season 1 (2015) Viola Davis as Professor Annalise Keating in ‘How to Get Away with Murder’

ABC/Craig Sjodin

Shonda Rhimes has given audiences many memorable characters over the years, but there’s no one as iconic as Annalise Keating (Viola Davis) from How to Get Away with Murder. The series follows the law professor as she leads a group of students into a web of crime through teachings on a series of murder cases that blur the lines between right and wrong. In the show, Davis commands the screen whenever she’s on it, almost dwarfing her castmates with her prowess and strength. With her win for Outstanding Actress in a Drama Series for the show’s first season in 2015, the actress became the first Black woman to win the prestigious award. 

Jeff Hiller: Somebody Somewhere Season 3 (2025) Jeff Hiller, Lu Zhou at the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards Governors Ball on September 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California

Michael Buckner/Variety via Getty Images

HBO’s underappreciated comedy Somebody Somewhere was never expected to take home any awards for its final season, even though it was respected amongst critics and industry voters. The same was said for Jeff Hiller, who perfectly balanced humor and emotional depth in his role as Joel, protagonist Sam Miller’s (Bridget Everett) best friend. While his performance was celebrated by comedy lovers over the course of the show’s three seasons, there were always bigger series’ like The Bear that Somebody Somewhere had to battle for notoriety with. Yet Hiller defied the odds in the show’s final season, where he won Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series, beating out industry veterans like Colman Domingo and Harrison Ford.

Toni Collette: United States of Tara Season 1 (2009) Toni Collette as Tara in ‘United States of Tara’

Courtesy of Showtime

While horror fans everywhere were clamoring for Toni Collette to get an Oscar nomination for the film Hereditary in 2018, longtime fans of the actress will remember when she was given her flowers earlier in her career at the Emmys. United States of Tara followed the titular character, a suburban mother trying to cope with dissociative identity disorder. The actress masterfully played various roles as Tara’s extremely different alters, from the beer-drinking Vietnam vet Buck, to Chicken, a representation of Tara when she was five years old. Although the show was prematurely canceled after its third season, Collette took home the Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series for its first season, beating out Tina Fey for 30 Rock and Mary Louise Parker for Weeds.

Related: The 2026 Emmys Could Break More Than 25 Records — Here Are the Biggest Ones to Watch

Jeremy Strong: Succession Season 2 (2020) Jeremy Strong as Kendall Roy in ‘Succession’

Courtesy of HBO

Undeniably one of HBO’s best shows, Succession followed the Roy family as they were thrown into turmoil when the family patriarch’s health began to wane. At the center of the series is Kendall Roy (Jeremy Strong), the family’s drug-addicted second son whose silver spoon has led him to believe that his destiny is to take over his father’s billion-dollar media conglomerate. The second season saw Strong leaning into a tragic arc as Kendall’s life begins to spiral out of control under the thumb of his father, before exploding into a series-shaping and career-defining season finale, where he proved he was one of the best actors of his generation. By winning Outstanding Actor in a Drama Series in 2020, Strong proved the series was one of the most memorable of the decade. 

Tatiana Maslany: Orphan Black Season 4 (2016) Tatiana Maslany (R) and Jordan Gavaris (L) as Felix in ‘Orphan Black’

BBC America/Steve Wilkie

Orphan Black was a small yet popular Canadian television series that followed Tatiana Maslany’s Sarah Manning, who falls down a dangerous rabbit hole when she discovers that she and a woman she was attempting to steal the identity of are genetically identical clones. Over the course of the series, the actress played more than 10 different characters, putting herself in a league of her own as an actress. Up against stiff competition from the likes of Claire Danes and Robin Wright, Maslany’s win for Outstanding Actress in a Drama Series made her the first Canadian to win an Emmy in a major dramatic category for acting in a Canadian series. 

Related: How to Watch the 2026 Emmys Without Cable—Everything You Need to Know About TV’s Biggest Night

Phoebe Waller-Bridge: Fleabag Season 2 (2019) Phoebe Waller-Bridge as Fleabag in ‘Fleabag’

Courtesy of Amazon

It’s not often that someone wins an Emmy for both writing and acting, but that’s just what Phoebe Waller-Bridge did in 2019. With season two of her series Fleabag, Waller-Bridge played a woman navigating a messy love life while simultaneously grieving her deceased best friend, all while breaking the fourth wall to engage directly with the audience. Waller-Bridge took home the awards for both Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series and Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series. Her Outstanding Actress win was particularly significant, as she beat out Julia Louis-Dreyfus, who was nominated for the final season of Veep, a role for which the actress won the award 6 years in a row.

James Gandolfini: The Sopranos Season 2 (2000) James Gandolfini as Tony Soprano in ‘The Sopranos’

Photo by Anthony Neste/Getty Images

There is perhaps no show as infamous as HBO’s crime drama The Sopranos. Following New Jersey mob boss Tony Soprano (James Gandolfini) as he struggles to balance his criminal empire with his suburban family life, the series was a look at the American dream and masculinity at the turn of the century. Gandolfini was integral to the show’s success, often disappearing into the role as he showcased Tony’s brutality as well as his crumbling psyche. Although HBO ventured into original programming in 1982, these shows didn’t have much luck at the Emmys for a few years. With his win for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series for the second season of the series, Gandolfini became the first actor to win the award for an HBO show.

The One That Doesn’t Make Sense — Michelle Williams: Fosse/Verdon (2019) Michelle Williams as Gwen Verdon in ‘Fosse/Verdon’

Courtesy FX

There is no doubt that Michelle Williams is one of the most gifted actresses working today. In any other year, her win for playing American actress and dancer Gwen Verdon would be celebrated, but this year she was up against one of television’s most layered performances ever: Amy Adams in Sharp Objects. Adams completely disappeared into the role of Camille Preaker, a traumatized journalist who returns to her Missouri hometown to investigate the murders of two young girls. Throughout the limited series, Adams harnessed a vulnerability unlike anything she had done before and showcased the messy and volatile reality of what can happen when we never truly heal from our traumas. The fact that she didn’t win the Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie is still a hard pill to swallow over half a decade later.  

Related: ‘The Pitt’ Leads 2026 Emmy Nominations—See the Complete List of Nominees

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 just something about new bedding that makes getting a good night’s sleep easier. Not only can it update your bedroom’s vibe, but the right set can be a welcomed change when the seasons shift. As we transition from summer to fall, a comforter that’s lightweight enough to keep you cool when it’s still warm outside but feels soft enough to cuddle up with as the weather cools off is a must. When a single set offers the same versatility in style as it does in its ability to adapt to changing temperatures, you’ll want to keep it on your bed all year long.

Normally $217, the Martha Stewart Copper Vines Cotton Reversible Queen Comforter Set is on sale for a whopping 64% off right now at Wayfair. Now just $79, the queen set includes a 100% cotton comforter and two pillow shams with a dual-sided design so that you can switch up your bedroom’s look in a snap. It’s also on sale in a twin size for $60, down from $167, and a king size for $90, down from $250.

Martha Stewart Copper Vines Cotton Reversible Queen Comforter Set, $79 (was $217) at Wayfair

Courtesy of Wayfair

Shop at Wayfair

One side of this reversible bedding set features graceful vine motifs in a light sea green color on a white background for a serene, botanical look. The reverse side offers thick alternating stripes in the same shades for a clean, bold contrast. You can leave the vines facing up for a softer, garden-inspired feel or switch to the stripes to give your room a fresh look.

The comforter’s shell is made from 100% cotton with a plush polyester fill and a quilted design that keeps the filling evenly distributed. Between the silky-smooth feel and breathable materials, this comforter is a great choice for year-round use. The queen and king bedding sets each include two pillow shams, also made of 100% cotton, while the twin size set includes one sham.

Wayfair shoppers described this bedding set’s botanical design as “elegant” and “beautiful.” One customer said the comforter felt “soft and warm,” and noted that “it’s easy to wash, too.”

Shop More Deals

• Martha Stewart Hydrangea Floral Cotton Queen Quilt Set, $65 (was $184) at Wayfair
• Martha Stewart Eloise Floral Cotton Queen Duvet Cover Set, $59 (was $167) at Wayfair
• Martha Stewart Simple Scallop Cotton Queen Comforter Set, $95 (was $284) at Wayfair

Related: Martha Stewart’s 100% Cotton Quilt Set With a Reversible, Heirloom-Inspired Botanical Design Is Now 65% Off

Discounts this good on premium quality 100% cotton bedding don’t come around every day. Snag the Martha Stewart Copper Vines Cotton Reversible Queen Comforter Set while it’s on sale for 64% off at Wayfair.

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.

The Pitt’s second season is nominated for a whopping 26 Emmys at this year’s awards ceremony—set to take place this evening, Sept. 14—compared to Season 1’s thirteen nominations (with five wins).

With so many nominations, the show seems poised to potentially smash an Emmys record for the most wins in a single year: 18, which was set by Shogun in 2024.

So, let’s break it down: what are the chances of The Pitt making Emmy history tonight?

Of note, the series has already won four of its nominations, taking home Outstanding Prosthetic Makeup, Outstanding Casting For A Drama Series, and Outstanding Original Music And Lyrics, while fan-favorite guest star Ernest Harden Jr. took home Outstanding Guest Actor In A Drama Series.

This does knock one potential win out right off the bat, as Jeff Kober was also nominated for Outstanding Guest Actor. Tina Ivlev, Brittany Allen and Tal Anderson were also up against one another for Outstanding Guest Actress In A Drama Series, which ultimately went to Shailene Woodley for her work as Annie in Paradise.

Outstanding Production Design For A Narrative Contemporary Program (One Hour Or More), Outstanding Sound Mixing For A Comedy Or Drama Series (One Hour) and Outstanding Picture Editing For A Drama Series also already went to Pluribus (knocking out four more possible wins total), while Outstanding Contemporary Makeup (Non-Prosthetic) went to Margo’s Got Money Troubles.

Still in the running are Katherine LaNasa, Fiona Dourif, Taylor Dearden and Sepideh Moafi up for the same award as each other (Outstanding Supporting Actress In A Drama Series), while Patrick Ball, Shawn Hatosy and Gerran Howell are all up for Outstanding Supporting Actor In A Drama Series. 

That obviously knocks a few potential numbers off of the total possible take-home awards, leaving just seven more opportunities to win between six categories: the aforementioned Outstanding Supporting categories, plus Outstanding Drama Series, Outstanding Directing For A Drama Series, and two episodes nominated for Outstanding Writing For A Drama Series, and, of course, Noah Wyle is up for Outstanding Lead Actor In A Drama Series.

When all is said and done, even if The Pitt wins in every category it has left, it’ll only take home a maximum of ten awards this year—an impressive climb when compared to last year, but falling short of the current record.

If momentum keeps up, perhaps we’ll see Season 3 take the lead.

The Emmys are streaming tonight at 8 p.m. EST on Peacock.

Related: ‘The Pitt’ Season 3 Will Deviate From Its Previous Formula: Here’s How

When Christina Applegate was finally discharged from the hospital, her daughter made sure her return came with a healthy dose of humor—just like her mom.

The Married… With Children star shared a photo on Instagram of the sign her 15-year-old daughter, Sadie, put up to welcome her home following her months-long hospital stay. The message read, “You’re home, happy day ho,” prompting Applegate to joke that her daughter is “so” her kid. Fans, meanwhile, were delighted by the NSFW-ish welcome-home message while also sending Applegate plenty of love and well wishes.

Fans quickly embraced the hilarious mother-daughter moment, with one joking, “You’re really rich you know that right?! I would be laughing so hard,” while another simply wrote, “❤️ Happy Day Ho 😂.” Others praised the humor as a welcome bright spot, with one fan writing, “Humor is a great healer! We love you Ho!!” Another added, “This is too great. We miss you! Sending all the healing vibes.”

View this post on Instagram

Several commenters also focused on Applegate’s health, expressing relief that she was home and wishing her well. “So glad you’re home & feeling better!! ❤️” one person wrote, while another commented, “Im sure im not alone in feeling happy you posted something. Everyone loves you! Rock on, Christina!”

The exact reason for Applegate’s months-long hospitalization has not been publicly confirmed. The actress, who was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2021, has been open about the serious health complications she has faced in recent years, including previous hospitalizations. Applegate, 54, was reportedly admitted to a Los Angeles hospital in late March and remained there for roughly four months before returning home in early August. A source told People she was “doing very well” following her discharge, though no specific condition was identified as the reason for the extended stay.

Applegate has been candid about the toll her health has taken since revealing her multiple sclerosis diagnosis in 2021. In March 2025, she said she had been hospitalized “upwards of 30 times” related to her health issues, calling the experience “unimaginable.” She has also described the daily challenges of living with MS, including rarely leaving her home. While TMZ reported that her latest hospitalization came amid her battle with MS, her representative did not confirm whether she was hospitalized or disclose details about her medical treatment at the time.

Donald Trump’s daughter-in-law is clapping back against recent reports that her wedding to Donald Trump Jr. was “something political or sinister” following a ProPublica article that claimed the Memorial Day weekend affair was bankrolled by Russian oligarch and ally of President Vladimir Putin, Umar Kremlev. 

According to ProPublica, Kremlev paid to rent the private Bahamian island and “other big-ticket items,” including the couple’s fireworks show. 

Bettina Trump posted a statement on Instagram Monday morning, along with photos of the event, starting with a pic of Trump Jr. playfully lifting her up in front of the massive fireworks display in question. 

View this post on Instagram

“Apparently our wedding is making headlines again, so a little clarity seems in order,” wrote Bettina. 

The new Mrs. Trump Jr. went on to explain, “Don and I got married privately on Friday, surrounded ONLY by our family. It was an intimate, deeply personal, and one of the most beautiful days of our lives. The weekend that followed had actually been planned well in advance as a fun weekend with friends. It was never intended to be our wedding weekend.”

Trump (Bettina, that is) continued, “When our original wedding plans changed, we simply decided to get married before it and arrived at an already planned weekend as newlyweds.”

As to who paid for what, she clarified, “Our dear friend Umar very generously hosted two incredible nights of celebrations for us AFTER our wedding. It was an extraordinarily generous wedding gift from a friend, and something for which we were and remain incredibly grateful.”

Bettina added, “It’s unfortunate that something so personal and happy can be recast as something political or sinister simply because of who someone is or where they come from. Friendship doesn’t require a political motive. Generosity doesn’t automatically come with an agenda. And sometimes a wedding gift is simply a wedding gift.”

Bettina also shared several previously unseen photos of the weekend, including snapshots with her sisters-in-law Ivanka Trump and Tiffany Trump, a nautical-themed performance, and plenty of partying with family and friends.

Of course, as we all know now, the President did not attend his son’s weekend wedding reception. In May, Trump told reporters, “He’d like me to go, but it’s going to be just a small, little private affair, and I’m going to try and make it. I’m in the midst…I said, ‘You know, this is not good timing for me.’ I have a thing called Iran and other things.”

As a health journalist (and human in the world), one of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is that “health” is much more complex than it’s often portrayed. We hear that carbs are “unhealthy” and fruits are “healthy,” but less often are we reminded that carbs can actually support gut health and aging, for example, and that citrus fruits can wear down your teeth. These are a couple of (many) examples you can find if you dig hard enough, think critically and ask enough questions.

That’s not to say you should never eat fruit—far from it, of course—but maybe we should rethink the common behavior of “demonizing” certain foods and putting others on a pedestal.

On that note, there’s another example of a “healthy” food that can contribute to health problems. More specifically, it’s a tasty and often-enjoyed fruit that can actually spike blood pressure. (Word to the wise: Untreated high blood pressure can lead to further health threats, such as a heart attack, stroke, heart failure, kidney failure, vision loss, heart disease and more complications.)

Ahead, cardiologists share what that snack is (hint: you might think of it as a vegetable), other factors that contribute to high blood pressure and treatment options.

🩺SIGN UP for Parade’s health newsletter with expert-approved tips, healthy eats, exercises, news & more to help you stay healthy & feel your best self💊

The ‘Healthy’ Snack That Spikes Blood Pressure

The snack we’re talking about is pickles. Before we dive into the concerns, let’s talk about why they’re seen as a “health” food.

“Pickles can be part of a healthy diet when eaten in moderation,” says Dr. Cheng-Han Chen, MD, a board-certified interventional cardiologist and medical director of the Structural Heart Program at MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center in Laguna Hills, California. “They are generally low in calories and can provide some nutrients, including vitamins A and K.”

Vitamin A boosts eye health, immunity, reproduction and organ function; vitamin K helps with blood clotting and bone health.

Note that the type of pickle matters. For example, refrigerated pickles are typically pickled via fermentation.

“Fermented pickles are loaded with probiotics, which can help foster good gut health and a more robust microbiome,” says Dr. Nadim Geloo, MD, a cardiologist and senior medical director of the structural heart division at Abbott. Shelf-stable pickles lack those benefits.

How Pickles Can Spike Blood Pressure

The biggest concern with pickles is sodium. “Pickles can be very high in sodium, and consuming too much sodium can cause the body to retain fluid and contribute to higher blood pressure,” Dr. Chen says. “For people who already have high blood pressure or are sensitive to sodium, this is particularly important to keep in mind.”

Dr. Geloo explains further. “Too much sodium raises your blood pressure as a result of the body holding onto excess water, increasing the amount of fluid in your blood vessels and making your heart work harder to pump that fluid throughout the body,” he tells Parade.

Related: Cardiologists Are Begging People To Stop Pairing This Common Supplement With Blood Pressure Medication

How Many Pickles Are ‘Safe’ To Eat?

If you need to mind your sodium intake, you don’t have to cut out pickles. Rather, focus on your total sodium intake throughout the day. 

“For someone who enjoys pickles, having one small pickle can be a reasonable portion, but eating several pickles regularly can add a significant amount of sodium to the diet,” Dr. Chen says. “Choosing low-sodium varieties is another good option.”

If you’re a math person and/or looking at the numbers doesn’t trigger disordered eating patterns, think of it this way: The American Heart Association recommends consuming no more than 2,300 milligrams of sodium a day. One pickle spear is roughly 280 mg of sodium, meaning you could technically eat eight pickle spears a day. The thing is, other foods have sodium, too.

“Remember, you’re not just eating pickles all day, so you’re likely consuming sodium elsewhere,” Dr. Geloo says. “To avoid overconsumption, eating less than three servings of pickles a day would be advisable.”

Related: We Asked Registered Dietitians the Best Fruit To Eat Every Day To Lower Blood Pressure and They All Said the Same Thing

Other Factors That Cause Blood Pressure Spikes

Concerned about your blood pressure? It’s probably smart to be, since hypertension (high blood pressure) and blood pressure spikes can contribute to concerns such as an aneurysm, heart failure, stroke, dementia, kidney damage, eye damage and more.

“The effect varies from person to person, but people with hypertension should be mindful of how these foods and beverages affect their readings,” Dr. Chen says.

Address other risk factors for high blood pressure, too. Cardiologists list high-sodium meals, stimulants such as caffeine, genetics, age, stress, smoking, drinking alcohol and certain chronic illnesses.

Also, you may have hypertension and not know it, so don’t brush off this information too quickly. “High blood pressure is often called the ‘silent killer’ because most people who have it feel completely normal, which is exactly why it can go undetected for so long,” Dr. Geloo warns. “As a result, it’s important to know your risk factors and get tested regularly.”

Related: The One Thing You Should Never, Ever Do After Eating a High-Sodium Meal, According to Cardiologists

How To Treat Blood Pressure Spikes

If you get a higher-than-usual blood pressure reading, don’t worry—literally.

“Sit quietly and give yourself a few minutes to relax before checking it again,” Dr. Chen suggests. “Slow, deep breathing can help promote relaxation and may lower blood pressure somewhat.”

If your reading stays high, or you have other symptoms, however—such as chest pain, shortness of breath, severe headaches, weakness or vision changes—he urges seeking medical attention rather than relying on breathing exercises alone.

Generally, Dr. Geloo encourages a diverse diet with whole foods (such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts and lean protein), increasing your potassium intake and engaging in regular movement that incorporates both cardio and strength training.

Otherwise, you might find yourself in a pickle.

Up Next:

Sources

• Dr. Cheng-Han Chen, MD, is a board-certified interventional cardiologist and medical director of the Structural Heart Program at MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center in Laguna Hills, California.
• Dr. Nadim Geloo, MD, is a cardiologist and senior medical director of the structural heart division of Abbott. Shelf-stable pickles lack those benefits.
• Health Threats from High Blood Pressure, American Heart Association
• How Much Sodium Should I Eat Per Day, American Heart Association
• High blood pressure dangers: Hypertension’s effects on your body, Mayo Clinic

Giada De Laurentiis is gearing up for the Dancing with the Stars premiere this week and got some friendly advice from her fellow TV chefs. Clearly, her “chef food friends” she spoke with including Guy Fieri, Alex Guarnaschelli, Sunny Anderson all know her well as they all had the same advice when asked what food the Giadzy curator should eat while competing.

“The whole food world’s going to be watching.,” Fieri told De Laurentiis over FaceTime. “I don’t want to bring this on you, but I’m nervous, Giada. I mean, like genuinely nervous.”

His food rec for the star? Tequila turkey fettuccine alfredo.

“I’m going to tell you this,” Fieri added. “If we were betting on the Kentucky Derby, I’d be putting money on your horse.”

View this post on Instagram

Anderson had the same idea, encouraging the 56-year-old to eat whatever she wants since she’ll be so active.

“You need to eat the burger. This is this is the time, honey,” she said. “But if you can’t handle the burger, you can always have some spaghetti and some bruschetta. Some orecchiette, you know, the pasta!”

TV chef and cookbook author Katie Lee also kept the carb suggestion going.

“I would go for buttered pasta,” she said. “Or olive oil pasta…so you’ll have lots of energy. It’s easy to digest, and it’s comforting. So it’ll make you feel good.”

Related: Which ‘DWTS’ Duo Has Best Chance of Winning? Odds Are in Their Favor — and Stacked Against Another Pair

Other chefs tapped for advice included Michael Symon who similarly suggested spaghetti pomodoro and Rocco DiSpirito also said, “I stuck to our favorite food, pasta. A lot of that because you need lots of energy. This is like training for a marathon.”

Guarnaschelli also reccomended spaghetti.

“I would go straight to major emotional comfort food,” and also joked that her other tip was to “panic eat” five candy bars.

De Laurentiis is partnered with Alan Bersten. In the time since the full cast announcement earlier this month, the two have been posting up a storm on Instagram ahead of the show’s two-night premiere on Tuesday and Wednesday of this week.

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

In 1974, the Ohio Players created a song that became an iconic pop culture classic and has been used for decades in movies, TV shows, commercials, and even as the theme song of Gordon Ramsay‘s long-running Fox reality cooking show Hell’s Kitchen for Seasons 1 through 18. Fifty-two years after its release, “Fire” remains one of those instantly recognizable hits that has never lost its sizzle.

Recorded at Paragon Studios Chicago on a whim, the funk band—which originally formed in Dayton, Ohio, in 1967—wasn’t even trying to make the hit. “We were in the studio making tracks and all of a sudden, it leaped out,” lead singer Leroy “Sugarfoot” Bonner admitted to Fred Bronson, author of The Billboard Book Of #1 R&B Hits. After his bandmates came up with the name “Fire,” he rolled with it, writing the lyrics about getting hot for a smokin’ woman. “They come with the names, and I have to write to them. If the music is good, it doesn’t take long to get inspired,” he explained.

At the time, the group reportedly played it for another heavy-hitter musician in the industry, who immediately dubbed it a hit: Stevie Wonder. “He heard it and knew it was a smash,” drummer Jimmy “Diamond” Williams told Bronson. “Just like before we even said any words on the track, we knew it was a smash. There was nothing that was going to stop this hit.”

With the funky smash, the band earned their first and only No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 in February 1975, with the crossover sensation topping the R&B chart two weeks earlier. The album it came from, also called Fire, reached the top of the Billboard 200.

It has since been covered by Canadian rock band Platinum Blonde (1987), Jamaican reggae/dub duo Sly and Robbie (1987), funk/R&B band Zapp (1989), soul-disco artist Van McCoy (1975), and more.

Chances are, you’ve heard the song playing in the background during a TV commercial, or on the radio (because good music never goes out of style, no matter how old it is). At the time of writing, the dance hit had nearly 45 million Spotify streams.

Over the years, “Fire” has been featured in films like Bedtime Stories (2008), My Mom’s New Boyfriend (2008), The Comebacks (2007), Lady In The Water (2006), Roll Bounce (2005), Lords Of Dogtown (2005), Miss Congeniality 2: Armed & Fabulous (2005), and more, according to SongFacts, and in series Gotham (2018), New Girl (2014), and Malcolm in the Middle (2000).

Related: 1962 No. 1 Hit, Inspired by ‘The Original Disco Man,’ Became a National Phenomenon

Pillsbury is getting in on one of the hottest trends of the year: dot cakes.

On Monday, the beloved boxed cake and fixings brand revealed it would be launching a new version of its classic Funfetti icing that delivers the “signature Funfetti experience” with “even more fun.”

Inspired by the viral and vibrant treat which typically sees a cake or cupcakes iced with a buttercream or vanilla frosting and coated in rainbow nonpareils sprinkles, Pillsbury’s new Funfetti Dots of Fun Vanilla Frosting is packaged in a ready-to-go and all-in-one format, just like the original that fans are already familar with.

“For years Funfetti has brought a unique decorating moment to baking through a variety of colorful sprinkle shapes and designs,” Dan Anglemyer, chief operating and chief marketing officer at Hometown Food Company (which owns the rights to all Pillsbury baking mixes and related shelf-stable products, like icings) shared in a Sept. 14 press release. “With Funfetti Dots of Fun Vanilla Frosting, we are bringing the latest trends in baking and decorating to the forefront of the category.”

Pillsbury Launches New Funfetti Icing Inspired by Viral Dot Cakes

According to the announcement, the new release features Pillsbury’s creamy vanilla frosting and “an abundance of colorful dot sprinkles” for added crunch, texture, and “visual excitement.” Its versatility and compact jars make trying out the internet’s latest baking obsession with any flavor cake, Stuffed Cupcakes, or even brownie recipe, more convienent than before.

Related: Pillsbury’s Brand-New Cookie Dough Flavor Is Heading to Walmart—And Fans Say It ‘Sounds So Good’

Although it’s currently unclear what stores will stock the new 15.6-ounce containers of Funfetti Dots of Fun Vanilla Frosting, Pillsbury suggested it won’t be exclusive to any one store and instead is “coming soon” to select online and retail accounts (prices may vary).

Pillsbury Funfetti Dots of Fun Vanilla Frosting

Pillsbury/Hometown Food Company

And so far, fans seem pretty hyped about the newcomer.

“Ohh these are going to be sooo fun,” one Instagram user gushed, before another chimed in cheering, “OMG PERFECTTTTTT.”

“Love it!” another exclaimed.

What do you think about the concept? Let us know in the comments!

Next: Nestlé Toll House Just Reimagined Its Classic Cookie Dough in 3 ‘Bold’ New Ways