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Travel insurance is one purchase that can become less useful the longer you wait. You don’t necessarily need to buy a policy the same minute you book a flight or hotel. But once money starts becoming nonrefundable, the timing deserves more attention.

Some benefits are available only when insurance is purchased within a set period after your initial trip payment or deposit. Waiting can also create another problem: insurance generally won’t protect you from an event that was already known or foreseeable before you purchased coverage.

So, when should you actually buy travel insurance? Here’s how timing can affect what coverage is available.

TravelInsurance.com lets travelers compare participating policies from multiple insurers once they know their trip dates, destination and prepaid expenses.

When Is the Best Time To Buy Travel Insurance?

For many travelers, the best time to buy travel insurance is soon after making the first payment toward the trip. That gives you the opportunity to compare plans once you know your basic trip details while also preserving eligibility for benefits that must be purchased shortly after the initial deposit.

TravelInsurance.com says the ideal window generally begins when you make the first trip payment and extends through roughly the following few weeks, although exact deadlines vary by policy.

When You Buy

What To Consider

Soon after first deposit

Broadest access to time-sensitive benefits

Weeks or months later

Standard coverage may still be available

Near departure

Fewer pre-departure options may remain

After a disruption is known

That event generally won’t be insurable

Why Does Your First Trip Payment Matter?

Many travel insurance deadlines are measured from the initial trip payment date, not the departure date. TravelInsurance.com’s quote process asks travelers for the date they first made a partial or full payment toward their trip. If no money changed hands because the trip was booked with points, the site instructs travelers to use the booking date instead.

That first payment might be a cruise deposit, airline ticket, tour deposit or another prepaid reservation. The date becomes important if you’re considering ‘Cancel For Any Reason’ coverage or a waiver of a pre-existing-condition exclusion.

When Do You Have To Buy ‘Cancel For Any Reason’ Coverage?

Cancel For Any Reason coverage, or CFAR, is one of the clearest examples of why waiting matters. CFAR expands standard trip cancellation coverage by allowing cancellation for reasons not otherwise covered by the base policy, provided all requirements are met.

The National Association of Insurance Commissioners says CFAR usually requires travelers to purchase coverage within a specified period, insure the full trip cost and cancel before a specified deadline. CFAR generally reimburses only 50-75% of eligible trip costs, not 100%.

TravelInsurance.com says CFAR commonly must be purchased within roughly 10 to 21 days after the initial trip payment, although individual policies differ. Some plans currently available through the site require purchase within 15 days, showing why checking the specific policy deadline matters.

Don’t wait until time-sensitive benefits like “Cancel For Any Reason” coverage expire. Head to TravelInsurance.com to compare prices, benefit limits and top-rated policies side-by-side in minutes.

Pre-Existing Condition Waivers Can Also Have Deadlines

Standard travel insurance may exclude losses related to certain pre-existing medical conditions. Some policies offer a waiver of the pre-existing-condition exclusion when travelers meet specific conditions.

One common requirement is purchasing insurance within a limited period after the initial trip payment. TravelInsurance.com says this window is often around 14 to 21 days, depending on the policy. Travelers may also need to insure all prepaid, nonrefundable trip costs and meet medical eligibility requirements.

NAIC also emphasizes that consumers should be told whether a pre-existing-condition exclusion can be waived and under what circumstances before purchasing a policy. Never assume a waiver applies automatically. Check the policy’s exact eligibility rules.

Related: The Best 36-Hour Vacation Hacks Travel Pros Taught Me When You’re Out of PTO

Can You Buy Travel Insurance Right Before Your Trip?

Often, yes. TravelInsurance.com says many policies can be purchased up until the day before departure, although buying late can mean giving up access to certain time-sensitive benefits.

You also lose much of the value of pre-departure cancellation protection by waiting. If you insure a trip six months before departure, qualifying events occurring during those six months may potentially trigger covered cancellation benefits under the policy. Buying insurance the day before departure leaves almost no pre-trip period to protect.

Last-minute coverage can still provide useful post-departure benefits, such as eligible emergency medical expenses, trip interruption or baggage protection, depending on the policy.

Can You Buy Insurance After a Hurricane or Other Problem Starts?

You may still be able to buy a policy, but the event already underway may no longer be covered. Travel insurance is designed primarily for unexpected events.

For example, TravelInsurance.com notes that hurricane-related cancellation benefits may apply only when the policy was purchased before the storm became a known event, depending on the plan and covered reason. The same principle can apply to other disruptions. Buying insurance after you already know about a strike, illness or major weather event generally doesn’t turn that known problem into a covered event.

Related: 8 Carry-On Essentials Every Over-40 Traveler Needs

Should You Buy Travel Insurance Before or After Booking?

Typically, purchases should be made after you have made your initial booking or deposit. At that point, you know enough about the destination, travel dates and trip cost to compare meaningful quotes. You also start the clock for benefits that measure eligibility from your first payment.

There is little advantage to waiting months simply because departure still feels far away. The premium generally protects the specified trip, while waiting may narrow the available options.

How Long Should You Wait To Compare Travel Insurance?

Ideally, not long. You don’t need to rush into the first policy offered during checkout. Comparing several plans can help you evaluate cancellation benefits, medical limits, evacuation coverage and exclusions. But if you want CFAR or a pre-existing-condition waiver, your comparison period may be measured in days or weeks rather than months.

The safest approach is to record the date of your first trip payment and start shopping soon afterward.

TravelInsurance.com lets travelers compare participating policies, benefit limits and prices side by side. Check each policy’s time-sensitive requirements before purchasing, especially if CFAR or a pre-existing-condition waiver matters for your trip.

If you’ve seen someone reply to a text with “frfr” or add it to the end of a social media post, you may have wondered what the repeated abbreviation means. The slang term shows up frequently in casual online conversations, often attached to a statement someone wants to emphasize.

At first glance, “frfr” might look like a typo or an acronym that needs decoding. But the repetition is intentional, and it gives the abbreviation a slightly different tone than the shorter “fr” you may also see in texts and comments.

So, what does “frfr” mean, and why do people use the letters twice? The answer is simpler than the abbreviation might suggest.

Related: Huh? What Does ‘WYD’ Mean in Texting?

What does FRFR mean in texting?

JLco - Julia Amaral / Getty Images

FRFR means “for real, for real.” It is an informal internet abbreviation used to add emphasis to a statement or show strong agreement with something someone else has said. Dictionary.com lists FR as an abbreviation for “for real,” while Merriam-Webster defines the phrase “for real” as informal language meaning genuine, honest, serious or “in earnest.”

The shorter FR can work in several ways. Someone might reply “fr” to mean “I agree” or “that’s true,” while “fr?” can ask whether something is actually true or whether the other person is serious. FRFR takes that same idea and turns up the emphasis.

For example:

“That new restaurant is so good.”
“frfr”

In that exchange, the second person is essentially saying, “For real. I completely agree.”

It can also appear at the end of a sentence:

“I’m going to bed early tonight frfr.”

Here, the person is emphasizing that they genuinely intend to go to bed early.

Related: Wait, What Does ‘PMO’ Mean?

Why do people say FRFR instead of FR?

The repetition is the point. Saying “for real” once already signals sincerity, but repeating it gives the expression more weight.

The same pattern appears in ordinary speech. Someone might say “for real, for real” when they want to make clear that they’re being completely serious. Writing FRFR compresses that repeated phrase into four letters, making it easy to use in texts, comments and other informal online conversations.

It also gives a message a slightly different tone than simply writing “FR.” A quick “fr” can be a casual agreement, while “frfr” tends to sound more emphatic.

How do you use FRFR?

Galina Zhigalova / Getty Images

FRFR is generally used in casual digital communication, including texts, direct messages, group chats and social media comments. It can appear by itself, at the beginning of a sentence or at the end. Here are a few examples:

• To Strongly Agree: “That finale was wild.” “FRFR.”
• To Emphasize an Opinion: “That might be the best pizza I’ve ever had frfr.”
• To Stress That You’re Serious: “I’m actually going to clean my room today frfr.”
• To Emphasize a Feeling: “I miss summer frfr.”
• As a Question: “You really met them? frfr?”

Related: ‘WTM’ Meaning: What It Really Stands for and How To Use It

Is FRFR the same as ‘for real’?

FRFR is simply a shortened version of “for real, for real.” The repeated wording adds emphasis rather than creating a completely different meaning.

The expression “for real” itself is older than the internet. FRFR developed as an informal digital shorthand that preserves the repetition of the spoken phrase.

FR vs. FRFR

The difference is mostly one of emphasis.

Slang

Meaning

Typical use

FR

“For real”

Agreement, sincerity or confirmation

FRFR

“For real, for real”

Stronger agreement or emphasis

For example, “That movie was good fr” expresses agreement or sincerity. “That movie was good frfr” gives the statement more emphasis.

The exact tone still depends on the conversation. Like many texting abbreviations, FRFR is casual and generally belongs in informal communication rather than professional or formal writing.

What does FRFR mean on social media?

On social media, FRFR often appears in comments or captions when someone wants to strongly agree with an opinion or emphasize a reaction.

A person might comment: “This song is on repeat frfr.”

Or: “We need another season of this show frfr.”

In both cases, the abbreviation reinforces the statement. It signals that the person genuinely feels that way rather than using the phrase casually or jokingly.

Because the abbreviation is short, it can also be added to the end of an otherwise complete sentence without changing its basic meaning.

Is FRFR a bad word?

No. FRFR is not profanity. It is an informal abbreviation for “for real, for real.”

Its casual tone makes it more appropriate for texts, social media and conversations with friends than for formal documents or professional communication. If the audience might not recognize the abbreviation, spelling out “for real” or simply saying “seriously” will be clearer.

If someone sends you “frfr,” they are usually emphasizing that they mean what they said or strongly agree with what you said.

How do you respond to FRFR?

How you reply depends on whether the sender used the term to state a fact, share an opinion or ask a question. If someone texts “frfr” in agreement with you, a simple “facts,” a thumbs-up emoji or leaving the message as the final word works well. If they are using it to ask whether you are truly serious, confirm your statement by replying “yes, fr” or “100%.” When someone adds it to emphasize a bold claim, you can match their energy with “I hear you” or “no cap.”

Related: 60 Gen Z Slang Words You Need To Know To Keep From Becoming ‘Cheugy’

This article was drafted with the assistance of AI and thoroughly reviewed, edited and fact-checked by Parade editors. See our complete AI Policy.

More than just an unexpected discovery, a simple $4 purchase in 1989 gave a Pennsylvania flea-market shopper the find of a lifetime after he uncovered what would become a remarkable piece of American history.

At that time, an anonymous collector in Adamstown, Pennsylvania, was drawn to a painting at a local flea market.

However, it wasn’t the artwork itself that caught his attention but the intricate frame surrounding it.

When he brought the painting home and began removing it from the frame, the frame unexpectedly came apart in his hands.

That is when he noticed something unusual: a folded piece of paper tucked behind the canvas, as mentioned by the Royal Examiner.

Little did he know that it was an original printing of the Declaration of Independence, considered one of the few surviving Dunlap Broadsides, of which historians believe only around 200 copies were printed.

An illustration depicting American politician John Hancock signing the Declaration of Independence at the Pennsylvania State House in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in July 1776.

Kean Collection/Archive Photos/Getty Images

Although it wasn’t initially created as a souvenir or collectible, the broadside was a single-sheet printed announcement used to disseminate the Declaration’s text, specifically announcing the colonies’ decision to break away from British rule.

Since the message represented an act of rebellion against British rule, John Dunlap,  the official printer for Congress, produced and distributed the first printed copies of the document in his Philadelphia shop on the night of July 4, 1776.

The copies were dispatched the following day to government officials, military commanders and other authorities.

While the majority of the printed copies were damaged or lost over the centuries, only a small number survive today, and reportedly, 26 copies are known to still exist.

Due to the extreme rarity of the document, the discovered Dunlap Broadside turned out to be worth millions of dollars.

After taking a friend’s advice to have it professionally appraised, the man contacted Sotheby’s, where experts examined the document and recognized it as a first printing of the Declaration of Independence.

With the help of Sotheby’s experts, David Redden and Selby Kiffer, the document’s authenticity was established based on its characteristics and printing details.

“It is the cornerstone document in the history of world freedom. It’s as close as you can get to the founding of our country,” Sotheby’s Vice Chairman David Redden told CNN in an interview.

After officially authenticating it as a genuine Dunlap Broadside, the piece was sold to Donald Scheer at an auction for a whopping $2.42 million in 1991.

Years later, it was purchased for $8.14 million by a group led by television producer Norman Lear, and the rare copy of the Declaration began touring across the country.

Related: 1974 Rock Song, Lasting Nearly 23 Minutes, Was Misheard as a Beach Boys Tribute

Gypsy Rose Blanchard’s partner, Ken Urker, was found dead on Thursday, Oct. 1. He was 34.

He was discovered inside his Louisiana home after he made suicide threats and told police he had owned a gun, according to TMZ.

Deputies responded to a welfare check at his property on Thursday evening, per law enforcement records obtained by the outlet. Authorities came to check on him after family members said he wasn’t responding to their calls and didn’t show up to work.

The caller informed the dispatcher that Urker threatened to commit suicide and had a gun. They added that he was in a “dark place.” Another caller said he “killed himself” and inquired whether he was okay, according to TMZ.

Family friends got into his home through a bedroom window to discover Urker unconscious. There was a holstered handgun on his nightstand, along with a syringe and two shot glasses.

TMZ was the first to report Urker’s death, writing that deputies found drug paraphernalia and a brown, powdery substance in the home. It is not clear if the gun was fired or used in his death.

The outlet wrote that Rose Blanchard texted him “Happy Birthday” but didn’t receive a response, and that her brother Dylan found him in his home.

Urker and the victim of Munchausen syndrome by proxy met through a prison pen pal program and became engaged in 2018. Although they later split, they share a daughter, Aurora. Rose Blanchard married Ryan Anderson while in prison, but they ended up getting a divorce. She and Urker reconnected in 2024.

If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide or struggling with suicidal thoughts, help is available 24 hours a day through the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.

DIY lovers, you’re definitely going to want to head to Aldi this week. The German grocer is currently selling a 20-drawer organizer that’s perfect for keeping all of your bits and bobs for your creative do-it-yourself projects neat, organized and easy to access.

Aldi’s Kirkton House brand just dropped a new 20-drawer craft organizer for just $9.99. It honestly looks way more expensive than it is, almost like something you’d pick up from The Container Store. The sleek organizer features a white shell as well as 20 clear drawers where you can keep any and all sorts of arts and crafts supplies. This would be great for keeping everything from buttons and gemstones to stickers, glue sticks, rolls of washi tape, stamps and so much more. You can easily store this on a shelf, desk or wherever else you do your work.

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Kirkton House Drawer Craft Organizer, $9.99 at Aldi

Aldi

This tabletop organizer would most likely work best for your more compact DIY items (you know, the ones that have a habit of getting lost).

The drawers easily slide in and out, so you can quickly and easily access your crafting essentials as you need them. Each drawer also has a handle to make it easier to open and shut. You could even add labels to each of the drawers for even greater organization and to make it easier to navigate. It’s totally up to you.

This new 20-drawer organizer is part of Aldi’s current rotation of weekly Aldi Finds, which are specials that come and go every single week on Wednesdays. These products are limited edition and are only available while supplies last. If you see something you’re interested in grabbing, make sure to shop fast; these never stick around for a terribly long time! Aldi Finds can be shopped in the center aisle, so head there on your next grocery run.

If you’re interested in other Aldi Finds, be sure to check out this beautiful $27 bread baker that could pass for Le Creuset, this pretty purple 15-piece tool kit that helps you tackle any home project with ease, these adorable and cozy $5 Halloween plush throws that are perfect for spooky season or this new 2-piece $5 acacia wood seasoning bowls set that will have you spicing up your food like a total pro.

Related: Get a Jump on Holiday Decorating With Aldi’s Adorable Gingerbread Village Collection

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

Fall is a great time to give your kitchen a little refresh, especially if clutter has started to take over. Pantry staples, cookware, small appliances, and household supplies can quickly fill up cabinets and crowd countertops, leaving little space for the things you reach for every day. That’s why adding a freestanding cabinet can come in handy to give items a home and help free up much-needed room in the kitchen. If you’re looking for an easy way to add more storage, Amazon has an option that could be worth a look.

Right now, the Giantex 5-Tier Rolling Kitchen Cabinet at Amazon is on sale for $127, down from $150, as part of an early Prime Day deal. This tall, space-saving cabinet has five storage cubes with semi-translucent doors that let you see what’s inside at a glance. It also sits on wheels, making it easy to roll wherever you need extra storage for kitchen appliances, pots and pans, pantry items, and more.

Giantex 5-Tier Rolling Kitchen Cabinet, $127 (was $150) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at Amazon

Measuring 27.5 inches long, 12.5 inches wide, and 60 inches high, this cabinet adds plenty of enclosed storage while helping keep countertops clear. Each compartment has a flip-and-slide door with magnetic catches to keep everything neatly tucked away. There’s also a smaller 23.5-inch-long version for those with smaller kitchens or living spaces. You can shop it in white or black, with both color options priced under $150. 

For added stability, the cabinet comes with two anti-toppling devices that let you anchor it to the wall. This can be especially helpful in homes with children or pets. 

The cabinet has earned positive reviews for its sleek style. One reviewer called the cabinet “chic and modern,” while another described it as  “solid for the price” and said they would “probably buy a second.”  Shoppers said that assembly is also straightforward, with one Walmart reviewer saying the cabinets were “high quality” and“easy to put together.” 

Shop More Amazon Deals

• Winemana Handmade Owl Wreath, $21 (was $25) at Amazon
• Superjare 3-Tier Storage Nightstand with Charging Station, $34 (was $40) at Amazon
• Amwgimi Sunflower Touch Table Lamp, $20 at Amazon

Related: Walmart’s ‘Beautiful’ $65 Freestanding Storage Cabinet Is ‘Perfect for Tiny Bathrooms’

For anyone giving their home an organization refresh this fall, the Giantex 5-Tier Rolling Kitchen Cabinet offers plenty of room for keeping everyday essentials in order. Head to Walmart and snag one while it’s still in stock and on sale for as low as $127!

Don’t miss future deals! Sign up for Parade Picks to receive our commerce team’s curated selection of discounts and sales, twice a week.

Disney fans have another reason to return to Arendelle this week.

A new Frozen animated short is here, giving fans another glimpse at Anna, Elsa and the rest of the beloved characters ahead of the highly anticipated third movie.

Titled The Night Before the Royal Fitting, the new installment of Disney’s Off the Page Adventures is available to stream now on the Disney Kids YouTube channel. The story is presented in a storybook-style animation and follows Anna after her engagement as she and Elsa prepare for a special occasion in Arendelle.

This setup is especially exciting for fans who have been following Anna’s story since Frozen II.

Disney has not described the short as a direct lead-in to Frozen 3 or officially called it part of the movie’s canon. However, the story takes place after Anna’s engagement to Kristoff, putting the sisters in a very different place from where audiences last saw them in the 2019 sequel.

The short arrives as Disney brings back Frozen Fan Fest, a celebration featuring new merchandise, collectibles and other experiences inspired by the franchise. Disney says more Frozen adventures are on the way, with Frozen 3 currently scheduled to arrive in theaters in November 2027.

The Night Before the Royal Fitting is available now on Disney Kids YouTube.

RELATED: Elvis Presley Made His Only Grand Ole Opry Appearance 72 Years Ago Today

Julia Stiles‘ time on Dancing with the Stars has been slammin,’ according to her Save the Last Dance co-star Kerry Washington.

“Julia has my heart. I’ve known her forever. I think she’s killing it,” Washington recently said on an episode of Kylie Kelce’s podcast, Not Gonna Lie. “I think she’s extraordinary.”

The two actresses played opposite each other in the 2001 movie where Stiles’ character, an aspiring ballerina named Sarah, switches high schools and meets Washington’s character, Chenille, who introduces her to the hip-hop club scene.

Julia Stiles and Kerry Washington

Bruce Glikas / Getty Images

Nodding to the film, the Scandal actress pointed out that Stiles on DWTS “is the least that could happen, given the fact that she didn’t really get to go to Juilliard in real life.”

“I think she’s like, ‘For anybody who doubted me. Look at me now. Like, you can laugh all you want, look at me now,'” Washington added.

Related: Julia Stiles Reveals Why She’s Ready to Dance Again on ‘Dancing with the Stars’

Stiles, partnered with pro Ezra Sosa, has become a frontrunner in the competition that kicked off in September. So far on the show, she’s shared how the film affected her relationship with dance, to the point where she put her love for it on hold for years.

“I love to dance, but ever since that movie, I’ve just been an at-home dancer,” she shared during an appearance on The Jennifer Hudson Show last week. “I haven’t gone to a single dance class since that movie because I got really self-conscious about people watching me, and so part of my wanting to be on Dancing with the Stars was to find the joy and confidence in performing again.”

And while Stiles shared that the ballet scenes in Save the Last Dance were done by a stunt double, she said that “the hip hop, I will proudly say, was me. Like all the club stuff was me.”

A fact that would make Chenille proud, we’re sure.

Dancing with the Stars airs on Tuesdays on ABC at 8 p.m. EST.

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Gypsy Rose Blanchard is waiting for answers as authorities continue investigating the death of her partner, Ken Urker, who was found dead at a Louisiana home on Thursday, October 1.

A family member discovered Urker, 34, according to People. The Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office has now offered an update on where the investigation stands.

Warning: this article contains graphic details.

What Have Police Said About Ken Urker’s Death?

A spokesperson for the sheriff’s office told the outlet that investigators have “found no evidence of foul play” so far. “As long as the investigation is ongoing, of course, we cannot rule it out,” the spokesperson added.

An autopsy was being completed Friday, October 2, according to the Lafourche Parish Coroner’s Office. Officials have not said when they will release the findings.

According to a separate Page Six report on Friday, an incident report from the Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office documented drug paraphernalia, a handgun, and a brown powdery substance inside the home where Urker was found.

“Deputies entered the residence through the front door and were able to see Mr. Urker from the living room area lying on his back in the bed. Deputies walked in the direction of the room and located paraphernalia (syringes and spoon) in the bathroom next to a brown powdery substance,” the report stated.

Authorities also documented a syringe and handgun on a nightstand near the bed.

“Mr. Urker was found lying on the bed on his back, cold to the touch, and appeared to have been there for an extended period of time. His face and his arms were blue.”

The report adds more detail to the circumstances surrounding Urker’s death, but officials have not announced an official cause. 

An autopsy and toxicology testing are expected to help determine what happened.

What Did Gypsy Rose Blanchard Say Happened?

Blanchard has said she believes Urker may have died from an overdose, though authorities have not confirmed a cause of death. “I don’t know if it was intentional or not,” she told People. “He was not in a good state of mind lately.”

Blanchard said she was overwhelmed after learning of his death. “I can’t think. I’ve screamed until my throat burns.”

TMZ reported that Blanchard had texted Urker “happy birthday” earlier that day but did not receive a response.

What Has Ken Urker’s Family Shared?

According to US Weekly, Urker’s sister Autumn later addressed his death during a TikTok Live, saying the last words he spoke to her were, “I love you.”

Blanchard and Urker shared daughter Aurora, whom they welcomed in 2024. Blanchard described their daughter as “a beautiful reflection of his enduring spirit, and through her, a part of him will always remain with us.”

“I will make sure she grows up knowing how deeply her father loved her and who he was beyond what strangers on the internet chose to say about him,” she said.

What Was Gypsy Rose Blanchard and Ken Urker’s History?

Blanchard and Urker first connected while she was incarcerated for her role in the 2015 killing of her mother, Dee Dee Blanchard.

Urker proposed in October 2018. They later ended their engagement before reconnecting, and the pair reunited again in April 2024 after Blanchard’s release from prison in December 2023.

“There are no words that can express the depth of this loss,” Blanchard said in a statement shared with People. “I ask for privacy and compassion for our daughter, our families, and everyone grieving Ken during this incredibly painful time.”

If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide or struggling with suicidal thoughts, help is available 24 hours a day through the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.

Just in time for the month of scares, one of Alfred Hitchcock’s biggest releases is now available to stream on Netflix. Psycho has joined the streamer in the U.S., and it’s a movie that changed Hollywood forever.

It sits at No. 39 on IMDb’s list of Best Movies of All Time, and it’s Certified Fresh with a 97% Rotten Tomatoes score. That’s not surprising, considering the way it blew out the competition when it was released in 1960.

Psycho was one of those movies the studios didn’t want to take a risk on. Based on Robert Bloch’s novel, Paramount Pictures thought it “too repulsive,” so didn’t want to fund it. That didn’t stop Hitchcock, knowing that he had a masterpiece on his hands. He decided to defer his director’s fee, taking 60% ownership of the film negative instead. He even funded it himself for under $1 million.

So, when Paramount distributed it and it became a box office hit, Hitchcock was the one laughing. He walked away with millions, and Paramount had to learn not to doubt him again.

Anthony Perkins plays Norman Bates, the owner of Bates Motel, a secluded motel that Marion Crane (Janet Leigh) is forced to stop at. Marion has embezzled money from her employer after finding out that her boyfriend is delaying their marriage due to debt issues. On her way to his house, she’s trapped in a rainstorm, and she thinks that the threat of the police knocking on the door is the scariest thing that could happen to her.

Most people now know the twist about the serial killer and who Norman Bates was. The entire story helped to change psychological horror in theaters, as Hitchcock pushed back on the Hays Code censors at the time in an ingenious way. The censors said that they saw explicit nudity and a flash of a breast during the iconic shower scene, so Hitchcock waited a few days and sent the scene back to them. Nothing was changed, and it proved the placebo effect of sorts, as the censors allowed it through, misremembering the original scene they saw!

Since then, the level of nudity allowed on screen has changed. On top of that, the level of gore has changed. Psycho was viewed as a complete divergence from the legendary director’s original storytelling that it came across as a risk, but it showed the appetite of the viewers. They also weren’t that bothered by the fact a toilet was flushed on screen, marking the first time it had ever happened in movies.

Psycho is now available to stream on Netflix, and it’s perfect for those ready for a month of scares.

The richest man on the planet is single again. Elon Musk’s girlfriend and the mother of four of his children, Shivon Zilis, just revealed that the tech tycoon abruptly ended things with her earlier this week. But that’s not the whole story. Zilis posted the breakup news and a screenshot of Musk’s last few texts to her on his own social media site, X.

Zilis shared a cryptic post last Sunday, writing, “New day, new life.” While she didn’t elaborate in the September 27 statement, she did go into detail in a second post about her now-ex. 

The Neuralink exec offered some insight into her previous “new day, new life” share, writing, “It’s hard to go from in love to let go in a week with no warning, but that’s just how it happens sometimes.” 

It’s hard to go from in love to let go in a week with no warning, but that’s just how it is sometimes 🤷🏻‍♀️

I feel happy that I got to show Elon how it feels to be deeply understood, nurtured, and peacefully loved with stability and gentleness. Given the tumultuous nature of his… https://t.co/HAOfjxrIig pic.twitter.com/lgL0GVzD2R

— Shivon Zilis (@shivon) October 2, 2026

While the opening starts off somewhat harsh, this isn’t a scathing takedown or a clapback at Musk. Instead, it portrays the billionaire (occasionally trillionaire) and the couple’s relationship in a positive light. Zilis continues, “I feel happy that I got to show Elon how it feels to be deeply understood, nurtured, and peacefully loved with stability and gentleness.”

Zilis also claims Musk has a “tortured soul” and “fights for humanity,” while adding, “We were always his safe space. A place where all of us were overjoyed to see him and one that was always full of happiness and love, not war, in contrast to his otherwise militant existence.”

Like anyone experiencing heartbreak, Zilis reveals, “I’ve loved him more than life itself and he’s taught me 100 lifetimes of knowledge and made my cup overflow with life meaning, so there is a lot of loss, but luckily we created four beautiful little loves of my life. I am so beyond grateful for our children, and they make every single day the best of my life!”

The couple welcomed twins Strider and Azure in 2021 via IVF, daughter Arcadia in 2024, and son Seldon Lycurgus in 2025. Musk also has 10 other children with different women: Six with ex-wife Justine Wilson, three with musician Grimes, and one with conservative influencer Ashley St. Clair. 

Zilis provides a timeline of sorts for the sudden demise of their relationship, adding a screenshot of a recent conversation from September 24. In the exchange, she writes, “It was really wonderful to see you for breakfast. Love you very much.” Musk replies, “Love you too…I didn’t realize that this Xi dinner included significant other (Beijing one did not) or I would have invited you.” 

Of course, Musk was referring to the White House state dinner held on September 24. Based on his text, he still considered Zilis his “significant other” on Thursday. But by Sunday of the same week, she was already posting about her “new life.” As of now, Musk has not replied to Zilis’s post or made a public statement about their relationship.

The Great British Bake Off host Alison Hammond abruptly left during a segment of the U.K.’s This Morning to rush to the hospital. She posted on Instagram explaining her medical scare and reassuring fans.

During a live taping of the Friday, October 2, broadcast, her co-host Dermot O’Leary was speaking with veterinarian Dr. Scott Miller on camera when Hammond was seen exiting the stage. In the video of what occurred, many worried as the TV host was seen clutching her chest before moving out of frame.

O’Leary took control of the segment, telling audiences that Hammond was feeling a “little unwell” and had to “duck out.” He originally commented that his co-host would hopefully return in a few seconds, before revealing that she would instead be missing the rest of the segment.

Hammond was reportedly taken to the hospital, where she posted an Instagram story assuring fans she’sdoing okay. While wearing a hospital gown and putting her hand to her chest, she told fans that she’s “fine,” but is getting her “old ticker checked out.”

“I had a little bit of a palpitation, and now I’m getting it all checked out, but I think I’m OK. I’m hoping it was just a little panic attack or something like that,” Hammond continued, as she added, “I love you all. Thank you for all your lovely messages.”

Alison Hammond shares a health update after abruptly exiting ITV’s ‘This Morning’ today. pic.twitter.com/gN3II8M2im

— Pop Base (@PopBase) October 2, 2026

The TV host added that she is hoping what occurred was “just a little panic attack or something like that.” She went on to apologize to viewers and fans about having to leave This Morning.

“I love you all. Thank you for all your lovely messages,” she said. “I’m so sorry I left you. I would never normally do that. I would never leave a TV show, so you know I wasn’t very well. Hopefully, I’m going to be all right. The doctors are so lovely, and they’re checking me out, and hopefully everything’s going to be fine.”

Hammond became an official co-host of This Morning in 2021 after making her first-ever appearance in the early 2000s. In 2023, she became one of the hosts of The Great British Bake Off alongside Noel Fielding. Hammond stunned fans earlier this year with her natural 150-pound weight-loss reveal.

She didn’t comment in her story on when she will return to This Morning.

On Oct. 2, 1959, the TV world changed. The first episode of The Twilight Zone premiered, changing everything anyone knew about sci-fi TV shows.

The Twilight Zone is still considered one of the best TV shows ever made, with IMDb ranking it at No. 20. It’s one of those shows that has tried to be rebooted, but it just wasn’t the same without Rod Serling narrating — although Jordan Peele did a great job.

However, the series didn’t quite have the same impact when it came back the second time. From 1959 and throughout the 1960s, The Twilight Zone seemed like a normal sci-fi anthology show, but it had a not-so-hidden layer of social commentary. Television sponsors and network executives heavily censored realistic dramas throughout this time period. They didn’t want anything that touched on racism, mob mentality, government overreach, and nuclear war. TV was supposed to be entertaining.

Serling even had his own issues with this. In 1956, he wrote a teleplay inspired by the 1955 lynching of 14-year-old Emmett Till in Mississippi. He wanted to make sure the real story was told, and yet, the TV executives didn’t want to take the risk. They changed everything about Noon on Doomsday, even changing the victim from a Black boy to a white pawnshop owner.

Archive Photos / Getty Images

Frustrated with the way the sponsors and execs ruled the airwaves, Serling found a way to get around it. Sci-fi and fantasy weren’t taken seriously. Aliens were viewed as a thing of fiction, harmless when it came to people watching. The Twilight Zone tackled Cold War paranoia with extraterrestrials moving in. It disguised fascist beauty standards by creating a dystopian world where humans were considered deformed.

Serling was able to address controversial topics without any corporate pushback, and it helped that some of the best fantasy and sci-fi writers of the time were part of the team. I Am Legend’s Richard Matheson and Charles Beaumont created sharp and concise stories. Serling also found the way through to keep his stories the way he wanted them to be. He made sure he served as executive producer and head writer, retaining creative control.

Of course, the twists at the end became the talking points of each episode. These twists made viewers re-evaluate their own lives and human nature as a whole, creating something that would stick around.

And even with the timely social commentary, the episodes still hold up today. There are still topics of racism and government overreach that need to be addressed, and while there may not be the same Space Race and Cold War reports in the news, nuclear war, terrorism, and the threat to human existence still stands.

Today, The Twilight Zone is one of the world’s favorite TV shows. It continues to capture hearts through rides like The Tower of Terror at Disney World, and it was thanks to Serling being willing to find a way to get out of the box TV forced him into.

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It turns out that you don’t have to spend a small fortune to look like a million bucks. Designer brands have their own take on fashionable fall footwear, after all, but it may not be accessible to the average consumer. That’s what makes these No Boundaries Low Clogs such an incredible buy right now. The shoes are virtually indistinguishable from a runway brand’s style — but they’re just $25 at Walmart, which is a whopping 98% less than the designer version.

Even if they didn’t exude that high-end vibe, they’d still be an instant draw thanks to their simple style and clean lines. While the clog has never gone out of style, the shoe is definitely having a moment right now. This scaled-back option is effortlessly wearable, almost masquerading as a slipper while providing the versatility of an everyday flat.

No Boundaries Low Clogs, $25 at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Available in sizes 6 to 11, these clogs have a smooth suede-like upper and rubber outsoles for added support when you’re on the move. The material is so low-maintenance that you can simply wipe it down whenever it needs a little attention. A round toe and low-profile heel add to the simple, minimalist vibe, bringing a touch of unassuming Scandi-chic to your wardrobe. 

What’s great about these clogs is that they truly go with everything. You can step in and go, whether you’re out running errands in jeans and a T-shirt or wearing a cute dress and tights. The footbed is contoured, so it’ll conform to your foot’s natural shape while providing supportive ground grip thanks to the durable outsole.

Related: Walmart’s Cozy $19 Fair Isle Cardigan With Cabincore Charm Looks Like It’s Straight Out of a Holiday Movie

According to one customer, the “stylish” shoes look “even better in person” and feel “very comfortable.” Another shopper agreed, adding that they’re “trendy” and “super cute.” A reviewer also noted that the soft brown shoes are great for fall outings.

Shop More Walmart Deals

• Prettygarden Floral Button-Down Shirt, $29 (was $42) at Walmart
• Eytino Oversized Denim Jacket, $38 (was $70) at Walmart
• Kolipajam Cotton Pajama Set, $24 (was $34) at Walmart

Whether you’re looking for an alternative to your usual flats or you want something that pulls together an everyday outfit, you can’t beat these No Boundaries Low Clogs. They’ll make an impressive gift idea for anyone who appreciates high-quality footwear, too! Pick them up for just $25 while they’re in stock at Walmart.

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The trial for Scrubs TV writer and producer Eric Weinberg has officially gotten underway, with the 66-year-old appearing in court to defend himself against 23 charges of rape and sexual assault (via Variety).

“The defendant had carefully created an image of himself,” prosecutor Ariel Anson said in her opening statement, referencing Weinberg’s alleged use of disguising himself as an amateur photographer in order to lure seven women to his Loz Feliz residence for the purpose of assaultign them.

“These women believed the defendant was this successful, kind family man,” Anson continued. They believed he would uphold their boundaries. In reality the women were never safe.”

“He could be very charming and friendly and charismatic,” Anson went on. “He carefully used that mask and a pattern systematically with these women over and over.”

With Weinberg having been arrested in 2022, the defendant’s trial is currently expected to last anywhere from six to eight weeks. All seven of Weinberg’s accusers will take the witness stand, with an eighth woman (whose allegations were not included in the charges) will also testify.

In his opening statement, defense attorney Philip Cohen told the jurors that many of them might already consider Weinberg “a creep,” but that isn’t enough to find the defendant guilty of all charges.

“When you take away the bias, the sympathy, the creep factor, and you look at what the law requires, they have a problem in this case,” Cohen argued. “Is he a criminal? That is the question.”

Several explicit photos Weinberg had taken of his accusers were shown during the trial, with several of them featuring Weinberg’s hands grabbing them by the throat. After these photos were taken, Weinberg would provide the images to the women, several of whom asked him to delete them while one decided to hold on to them, believing it could provide legal evidence of her accusations.

“The reason we have these photographs is because the defendant documented and took photographs of the assaults as they were happening,” observed Anson.

Nearly a decade after announcing the end of their marriage, Tobey Maguire and Jennifer Meyer are officially divorced.

The former couple’s marriage ended on Monday, September 21, according to Los Angeles court documents obtained by Page Six.  Both have legally been restored to single status, though some issues connected to their divorce still need to be resolved.

“Judgment of dissolution is entered. Marital or domestic partnership status is terminated and the parties are restored to the status of single persons,” the court documents state.

When Did Tobey Maguire and Jennifer Meyer Separate?

Tobey, 51, and Jennifer, 49, announced their separation in October 2016 after nine years of marriage, as reported by People.

Their relationship began years earlier after they met at Universal Studios in 2003 while Tobey was filming Seabiscuit. They married in 2007. Jennifer did not formally file for divorce until 2020.

The proceedings then remained unresolved for years before Tobey filed a response in 2025, as reported by People.

What Does Their New Divorce Judgment Mean?

The former couple bifurcated their divorce, allowing a judge to terminate their marital status before every remaining financial and legal matter was settled, as reported by Page Six.

Jennifer filed court documents on Wednesday, September 16, saying they had agreed to dissolve their marriage, People reported in September. They expect to handle other outstanding matters through mediation with a private judge.

Tobey previously requested mediation involving issues such as child and spousal support.

How Many Children Do Tobey Maguire and Jennifer Meyer Share?

The former couple shares two children, daughter Ruby, 19, and son Otis, 17. Ruby was born about nine months before Tobey and Jennifer married.

Despite their lengthy divorce process, Jennifer has previously spoken positively about the relationship she and Tobey maintained after separating and their commitment to co-parenting their children.

Meyer has spoken before about how much work it took to keep a close co-parenting bond with Maguire after their 2016 split. On the World’s First Podcast, she said the two chose to “stay on track to stay a family” for their children.

Has Jennifer Meyer Moved On? View this post on Instagram

Jennifer has since started a new chapter with Geoffrey Ogunlesi, a music and entertainment executive. The couple are engaged and welcomed a daughter earlier this year. Geoffrey is the son of Nigerian lawyer, investment banker, and billionaire Adebayo Ogunlesi, according to SCMP.

Dancing With the Stars pro Val Chmerkovskiy is giving fans something to look forward to. The DWTS favorite is teasing a return to the Dancing With the Stars: Live! tour while also competing on Season 35 of the ABC hit series with celebrity partner Jenna Dewan. Chmerkovskiy was hospitalized in March after experiencing severe vertigo during the 2026 tour, but that isn’t stopping the fan favorite from hinting at his return to the upcoming tour.

In a clever video shared on social media, Chmerkovskiy can be seen taking an afternoon swim break when he gets “the call” from the DWTS tour. With the caption “Guess Who’s Back…” fans are left to assume Val will be hitting the road for the live show once this season’s Mirrorball winner has been named.

View this post on Instagram

DWTS fans couldn’t be more excited. “Shaking like a leaf,” shared one fan on social media. Another added, “Wherever it is, we’ll be there.”

“Oh my god,” gushed another. “It’s happening. Everyone stay calm.”

Val Chmerkovskiy Teases a Return to the Dancing With the Stars Tour

Val Chmerkovskiy is a longtime fan favorite on Dancing With the Stars, having appeared as one of the show’s pros for 20 seasons over 15 years. Born in Odessa and raised in Brooklyn, Chmerkovskiy has won the Mirrorball Trophy three times. Beyond the TV competition, he’s also a familiar face on the show’s live tours, alongside his wife and fellow DWTS pro Jenna Johnson.

His potential return to the upcoming tour comes after a difficult experience on the 2026 road show. In March, the famed dancer was hospitalized in Peoria, Illinois, after experiencing vertigo for several days. He explained on social media that his symptoms had worsened over time. He missed the Peoria performance while receiving medical attention and recovering.

The incident gave fans a glimpse into the physical demands of performing high-level dance routines night after night while traveling across the country.

Val Is Competing With Jenna Dewan on the Current Season of Dancing With the Stars @officialdwts

Jenna Dewan and pro Val Chmerkovskiy perform a Samba to “Africa” by Toto. #DWTS #YachtRockNight

♬ original sound – Dancing with the Stars #DWTS

Chmerkovskiy’s tour tease comes as he’s also back in the television ballroom, competing on Season 35 with actress and former professional dancer Jenna Dewan. Dewan began her career as a backup dancer for Justin Timberlake and Janet Jackson before setting her sights on acting.

Chmerkovskiy has acknowledged that the pressure is on for the duo, telling People that Dewan’s dance experience comes with high expectations from fans. Twenty years after Dewan starred alongside Channing Tatum in Step Up, she’s hoping to bring home Chmerkovskiy’s fourth championship.

How the Dancing With the Stars Live Tour Works

Whether fans can expect to see Jenna Dewan alongside her TV dance partner Val Chmerkovskiy on the upcoming DWTS live tour remains to be seen. For now, fans can watch the dynamic pair on television and hope to see Val live and in person when the DWTS tour hits the road after the Season 35 finale.

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Pet insurance is easy to question when your dog or cat is healthy. You pay a monthly premium for coverage you may not use that year, while routine veterinary expenses still come out of your own pocket. But one serious illness, emergency visit or surgery can change the calculation quickly.

That is the basic tradeoff. Pet insurance exchanges a predictable premium for protection against a potentially larger, unexpected veterinary expense.

Interest in that protection continues to grow. The North American Pet Health Insurance Association reported that 7.6 million pets were insured across the U.S. and Canada at the end of 2025, up 8.5% from 2024.

So, is pet insurance actually worth paying for in 2026? The answer depends largely on how much financial risk you’re comfortable carrying yourself. Here’s what you need to know.

Lemonade offers customizable accident-and-illness coverage for dogs and cats, allowing owners to choose deductibles, reimbursement levels and annual limits based on their budget.

How Much Does Pet Insurance Cost in 2026?

Pet insurance prices vary considerably by pet and policy. Factors can include the animal’s species, breed, age, location and the coverage and deductible selected. The National Association of Insurance Commissioners identifies all of these as factors that can influence premiums.

The latest detailed industry figures from NAPHIA show that U.S. accident-and-illness coverage averaged $62.44 per month for dogs and $32.21 for cats in 2024. However, individual 2026 quotes may differ substantially from those industry averages.

Lemonade currently advertises pet policies starting at $10 per month, although the actual premium depends on the pet and coverage selected.

What Costs Can Pet Insurance Help Cover?

Accident-and-illness insurance is primarily designed for unexpected medical problems rather than every veterinary expense. For example, Lemonade’s base policy can cover eligible diagnostics, procedures and medications for covered accidents and illnesses. This includes blood tests, X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, hospitalization, surgery and prescription medications.

Expense

Base Accident-and-Illness Coverage?

Unexpected injury

Often covered if eligible

New illness

Often covered after the applicable waiting period

Diagnostic imaging

May be covered for eligible conditions

Surgery

May be covered for eligible conditions

Routine annual exam

Usually requires wellness coverage

Vaccines

Usually requires preventative coverage

Pre-existing condition

Generally excluded

Optional preventative-care packages can extend coverage to certain routine expenses, but those benefits should be evaluated separately from protection against major unexpected bills.

When Is Pet Insurance Most Likely To Be Worth It?

Pet insurance tends to be most valuable when a large, unexpected veterinary expense would be difficult to pay comfortably out of pocket.

Someone with enough savings to absorb several thousand dollars in emergency treatment may reasonably choose to self-fund that risk. Another pet owner may prefer predictable premiums so an unexpected illness or injury does not create the same financial strain.

The policy structure matters, too. Lemonade currently lets customers choose annual deductibles of $100, $250, $500 or $750 and reimbursement rates of 70%, 80% or 90%. A higher deductible generally lowers the premium but increases what you must pay before reimbursement begins.

Lemonade lets pet owners adjust those variables when building a policy, making it easier to balance the monthly premium against potential out-of-pocket costs.

Why Buying Pet Insurance Early Can Matter

Waiting until a pet develops a health problem can significantly change what insurance will cover. Pet insurance generally excludes pre-existing conditions. Lemonade defines these as conditions that showed symptoms, were diagnosed or received treatment before coverage became effective or before applicable waiting periods ended.

Lemonade currently has no accident waiting period, a 14-day illness waiting period and a 30-day orthopedic waiting period, although policy details can vary by state. That means purchasing insurance after your dog develops a knee problem or your cat begins showing symptoms of diabetes generally won’t make treatment for that existing condition eligible.

Insurance is, therefore, easier to evaluate while a pet is still healthy rather than after an expensive diagnosis occurs.

Related: The Questions Vets Wish Every Pet Owner Asked Before Buying Insurance

What Are the Biggest Drawbacks of Pet Insurance?

The main drawback is simple: you may pay premiums for years without receiving reimbursements equal to what you spent. That’s how insurance works. Its value isn’t guaranteed savings; it’s transferring part of the risk of a potentially large expense. Owners also still face deductibles, co-insurance and coverage limits.

Most pet insurance uses a reimbursement model, meaning you generally pay the veterinarian first and receive reimbursement for eligible costs afterward. Pre-existing conditions remain another major limitation, and routine wellness expenses may require additional coverage.

Is Pet Insurance Better Than a Pet Emergency Fund?

A savings account and insurance solve the same problem differently. Savings give you complete control over the money and can pay for expenses that insurance excludes. The limitation is how quickly that fund grows.

Saving $50 per month produces $600 after one year. If a major emergency occurs several months after you start saving, the available balance may be far below the veterinary bill.

Insurance provides access to a larger potential reimbursement earlier, subject to the policy’s deductible, reimbursement percentage, exclusions and annual limit. For some households, the strongest approach may be both: insurance for large eligible expenses and savings for deductibles, routine care and non-covered costs.

So, Is Pet Insurance Worth It in 2026?

There isn’t one answer for every dog or cat owner. Pet insurance is easier to justify if an unexpected multi-thousand-dollar veterinary bill would force you to borrow money, delay treatment or make a difficult financial decision. It may be less compelling if you already maintain substantial savings specifically for veterinary emergencies and are comfortable assuming that risk yourself.

Before purchasing, compare more than the monthly premium. NAIC recommends considering exclusions, deductibles, payment limits and waiting periods when evaluating pet insurance.

The question isn’t whether you will definitely get back more than you pay. It’s whether transferring part of the financial risk of an unexpected illness or injury is worth the ongoing premium to you.

If pet insurance fits your budget, Lemonade allows dog and cat owners to customize accident-and-illness coverage by adjusting the deductible, reimbursement percentage and annual limit. Review the policy details and exclusions carefully before choosing coverage.

Mary Louise Weller, who is best known for her role as Mandy Pepperidge, the Pi House sorority sister, in the movie Animal House, has died at the age of 79.

“With a heavy heart, I share that Mary Louise Weller [‘ML to those that knew and loved her] passed away this morning after a brief illness. The family is asking for privacy & respect at this difficult time. Thank you all for your supportive words & continued kindness,” the actress’ Facebook account announced, per Extra TV.

Her friend, David Marks, also paid tribute to the actress on his Facebook page, writing, “It is with great sadness that I share the devastating news of the passing of our dear friend, Mary-Louise Weller. Beautiful Mary, friend, actress, model, equestrian, passed away quietly.

Along with Animal House, she also appeared in television shows such as Baretta, Kojak, Starsky & Hutch, Supertrain, Vegas, Fantasy Island, and CHiPs. She portrayed a marine biologist in the NBC telefilm Hunters of the Reef and a college student in the horror movie The Evil.

“I was the beautiful girl in trouble or the rich guy’s daughter who owns a Porsche and won’t give you the time of day,” she said of her acting career in a 1986 interview with the Los Angeles Times.

Following the news, fans paid tribute to the actress.

“Very sad news for @NationalLampoon’s #AnimalHouse devotees (and we are many): Farewell to #MaryLouiseWeller, perfect as sorority queen Mandy Pepperidge. The actress said she was advised that if she took the part, it would be the one she was always most known for. And … yes,” one person wrote.

“Rest in Peace and Godspeed to Mary Louise Weller a.k.a. Mandy Pepperidge from “Animal House.” 😢,” another person commented.

We just lost another legend 🕊️… Her memorable performances across film and television left a lasting mark on generations of fans. Rest in peace ❤️,” someone posted.

He’s been nominated multiple times, and Brad Pitt finally won his acting Academy Award in 2020 for Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood.

The year prior, Quentin Tarantino‘s western comedy wasn’t the only acclaimed film starring Pitt, now 62. His more leading turn in 2019 came with Ad Astra, which just dropped on Netflix in case fans of the A-lister haven’t seen it yet.

The sci-fi adventure film was directed by James Gray, who’s been making headlines this awards season as his latest feature Paper Tiger makes the festival rounds. Starring Adam Driver, Scarlett Johansson and Miles Teller, the New York-set drama premiered at Cannes and has earned some Oscar buzz since.

Going back seven years, Gray, 57, helmed another star-studded project — but in a wildly different genre. Pitt stars in Ad Astra (the title meaning “to the stars”) alongside Tommy Lee Jones, Ruth Negga and Donald Sutherland.

The emotionally charged sci-fi film holds an impressive 83% average critics’ rating on Rotten Tomatoes — and if you’re thinking, “I’ve seen much better percentages on the website,” bear in mind that this Tomatometer is based on a whopping 397 verified critic reviews. When was the last time you saw a movie gather that many on the platform?

Here’s Rotten Tomatoes’ offered synopsis of Ad Astra: “Thirty years ago, Clifford McBride (Jones) led a voyage into deep space, but the ship and crew were never heard from again. Now his son (Pitt) — a fearless astronaut — must embark on a daring mission to Neptune to uncover the truth about his missing father and a mysterious power surge that threatens the stability of the universe.”

James Gray’s Paper Tiger Premieres at NYFF

Johansson, 41, who stars in Gray’s new movie, had to skip their Cannes Film Festival premiere earlier this year, but she reunited with her co-stars at the recent New York Film Festival screening. Find out more here.