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In an age where more and more Hollywood creatives are debating the use of AI in mainstream film, Paul Walker’s brother has shared some surprising thoughts on whether the late actor could reappear in a future Fast and Furious outing.

Speaking with Entertainment Weekly, Cody Walker mentioned there is indeed a possibility of AI recreating his brother’s performance within the Fast and Furious franchise.

“AI was not a thing back in 2014, so they could do that,” he said. “There’s years of footage that was never used from these other Fast films. They’re the best in the business, they can figure that out.”

While Cody mentioned that Fast and Furious‘s producers could indeed recreate Paul’s performance, he is personally “not interested” in seeing his brother appear via AI.

However, he went on to add that the decision of whether to include an AI-generated Paul should ultimately be left to the actor’s daughter Meadow first and foremost.

“My stance is, it’s what Meadow wants to see done; it’s her father,” Walker said. “I would not be interested in doing that again. I love the way his character exited the franchise. They didn’t kill him off, they didn’t do something cheesy like that. It’s beautiful, [Brian] is off raising his kids. But if they want to do that, if Meadow would like to see that, they don’t need me or [the Walkers’ third brother] Caleb.”

As fans might recall, the Walkers’ brother tragically died from a car accident at the age of 40 on November 30, 2013. At the time, Walker was fully immersed in the ongoing Fast and Furious films, playing the principal role of LAPD detective-turned-street racer Brian O’Conner.

As a result of the actor’s death, the character of Brian was written out of the Fast and Furious franchise, with his final appearance coming in 2015’s Furious 7.

Another day, another food recall. This time, a popular healthy food is being pulled from stores because it could be contaminated with Salmonella, and the recalled product has been connected to a multistate outbreak.

Evergreen Fresh Sprouts LLC is recalling 1,290 bags of its broccoli sprouts after the product was linked to an outbreak of Salmonella Bovismorbificans that has sickened 22 people as of Sept. 9, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The recall was initiated after the company learned that its broccoli sprouts had been associated with the multistate Salmonella outbreak. A sample of the sprouts with a Sept. 16 Use By date also tested positive for Salmonella in a third-party laboratory.

The recall involves 215 cases of broccoli sprouts, with six 4-ounce bags in each case. The products were delivered to three distributors in Washington between Aug. 24 and Sept. 2 and may have subsequently been sold to consumers in Idaho, Montana and Washington.

The recalled broccoli sprouts come in clear plastic 4-ounce zip-top bags. They have UPC code 8 38796 00105 1 and the following Use By dates: Sept. 7, Sept. 9, Sept. 11, Sept. 14 and Sept. 16, 2026. Evergreen Fresh Sprouts has stopped producing and distributing broccoli sprouts as it investigates the source of the contamination.

It’s important to note that Salmonella contamination is not always detectable by sight, smell or taste—meaning the sprouts may look and smell perfectly fresh while still posing a health risk. That’s what makes recalls like this one so important to take seriously.

Although 22 illnesses have been reported as part of the multistate Salmonella outbreak, the FDA has not reported any illnesses specifically tied to consumption of the recalled Evergreen Fresh Sprouts product to date.

Consumers who purchased the recalled broccoli sprouts are urged to immediately throw them away and not eat them. When in doubt, throw it out.

There’s something especially satisfying about a simple butter cookie. No fillings, frosting, or chocolate chips are required when you have plenty of rich butter flavor, a crisp texture, and just enough sweetness to make reaching for another one almost inevitable.

And a French favorite that recently returned to Costco has that formula down. When @thecostcomama spotted boxes back at the warehouse, she summed it up in her caption: “the one I wait all year for, and it’s finally back.”

Judging by the reaction from other fans, these are the type of cookies you remember long after the last box disappears from the pantry.

@thecostcomama

No butter cookie compares. St. Michel La Grande Galette French Butter Cookies, made in France, rich buttery flavor with a hint of sea salt. This is the one I wait all year for, and it’s finally back. #costco #costcofinds #frenchcookies #cookies #buttercookies

♬ original sound – Costcomama

The returning favorite is St Michel La Grande Galette French Butter Cookies with Sea Salt, a classic French galette made in France. The 21.16-ounce box was $10.99 at the Costco warehouse featured in the video, although prices can vary by location. The item number is #1649248, which you can use to check availability at a local warehouse.

Costco’s St Michel French Butter Cookies Are Made With 24% Butter and French Sea Salt Golden French butter cookies arranged in overlapping rows.

Photo by James Lo on Unsplash

These aren’t called butter cookies just because it sounds good. The thin, golden galettes are made with 24% butter, plus Guérande sea salt from France for a savory contrast to the sweetness.

The ingredient list is refreshingly short, too: wheat flour, butter, sugar, eggs, Guérande sea salt, leavening, and skim milk powder.

Each box contains 36 cookies, based on the package’s 18 servings of two galettes each. But one of the nicest details might be the packaging. Rather than putting all 36 cookies together, they’re divided into nine individually wrapped packets of four, helping the remaining cookies stay fresh after you open the box.

Related: Costco’s New Mini Bakery Treat Is Like a Little Taste of Paris

Viewer Susan P noted, “A quality butter cookie & love that they were wrapped in 4 cookie groupings so they stay fresh longer.”

One commenter admitted, “I have zero impulse control with these things,” while another didn’t bother with a lengthy review, simply declaring them “The best!”

CajunCali recognized them from another retailer, noting, “They have them at Trader Joe’s and love them. Definitely getting some from Costco.”

And if you’re wondering what to serve alongside them, coffee, tea, cocoa, or even a glass of wine in the evening would go beautifully.

The appeal is easy to understand. They’re buttery, crisp, lightly salted, made with a straightforward list of ingredients, and conveniently packaged so you don’t have to open three dozen cookies at once.

Of course, whether those little four-packs actually help with portion control is another question entirely. As the fan with “zero impulse control” already warned us, that may be asking a lot.

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Organizing any room can be a challenge if you don’t have actual space to store your belongings. Eventually a little bit of clutter can turn into a more frustrating mess, but the Honeier 8-Cube Storage Organizer can help you finally restore order to your space. Right now you can snag the gray eight-cube unit for just $21, down from its usual $38 retail price at Walmart.

If you prefer a little pop of color, there’s also a blue version on sale for $22 and a pink marked down to $25. All three options feature open compartments with plenty of space to keep items neatly contained. Whether you’re tidying up a bedroom, living area, nursery, home office, or another room, you can rely on this unit to make your space look neater.

Honeier 8-Cube Storage Organizer, From $21 (was $38) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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With four cubes on each side, the organizer measures 49.21 inches tall by 31.49 inches wide by 11.81 inches deep. While it looks like a piece of robust furniture, it doesn’t require tools to set up. The waterproof design makes cleanup a breeze, and it’s also rust-proof to maintain its pristine appearance over time.

The non-woven fabric shelves are built to withstand loads of all kinds, with the material pulled taut and supported by steel tubes to create a dependable surface that stays put. With ample clearance space between shelves, there’s plenty of room to stack books, toys, towels, bedding, decor, office supplies, and so much more. The top is ideal for setting up framed photographs, plants, or artwork.

Related: Walmart’s Freestanding Storage Cabinet Is an ‘Elegant’ Way to Declutter Kitchens and Entryways

Hundreds of shoppers have shared their appreciation for the product. One praised the “sturdy and pretty” design and shared they were “shocked” by how much they were able to fit inside. Another person said they were impressed with the unit’s strength and “modern” appearance.

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• Sixhome Area Rug, $46 (was $80) at Walmart
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While maintaining a truly tidy living space can be tricky, the Honeier 8-Cube Storage Organizer makes it a lot easier to give miscellaneous items a good home. With eight cubes, it can make a big difference in any room. Pick it up for as little as $21 at Walmart while it’s in stock!

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Longtime Hallmark Channel star Yan-Kay Crystal Lowe is beginning to embrace her new normal and changing body after nearly a year of intense breast cancer treatment that has included chemotherapy, radiation, a bilateral mastectomy, and multiple reconstruction surgeries.

On Thursday, September 10, fans and famous friends cheered on the actress and director after portrait photographer Karolina Turek posted a stunning image of Lowe from their recent photo shoot together. Vancouver-based Turek has photographed many celebrities, from Pamela Anderson to HGTV’s Drew and Jonathan Scott.

In the dimly-lit image, Lowe, 45, stared down the barrel of the camera and struck a sultry pose, seated and only wearing a black leather jacket draped over her shoulders. Lowe’s arms were strategically placed to hide most of her bare chest, but it was still a brave signal from the mom of two that she’s determined to not only survive, but thrive.

Turek wrote a message to Lowe the caption of her stunning photo: “You are a force, @officialcrystallowe. What an honour it was to reconnect with you and capture you after everything you’ve been through. Thank you for your courage, your openness, and for sharing your journey so vulnerably through your battle with breast cancer. Your grace, beauty, strength and mindset is truly inspiring. I love you ( since 2001) 😘”

View this post on Instagram

In the comment section, Lowe responded to Turek, “I was SO lucky to get to work with you again. You made me feel beautiful and powerful….cancer doesn’t have to take everything away. Thank you. ❤️”

Fans & Friends Celebrate Yan-Kay Crystal Lowe’s Resilience & Beauty Hallmark stars Ashley Williams, Crystal Lowe, and Nikki DeLoach attend the 49th Annual Gracie Awards, hosted by The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation at the Four Seasons Beverly Wilshire Hotel on May 21, 2024 in Beverly Hills, California.

Photo by Presley Ann/Getty Images for Alliance for Women in Media Foundation

Lowe received an outpouring of love from fans and friends praising her resilience and confidence, including her recent All’s Fair in Love & Mahjong co-star Melissa Peterman, who wrote, “YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL. YOU ARE POWERFUL! ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️”

Lowe’s Hallmark bestie and longtime Signed, Sealed, Delivered co-star Kristin Booth wrote, “Hot tamale!!! 🔥🔥🔥” and fellow Hallmark director Linda-Lisa Hayer exclaimed, “Holy smokes sister!!!!🔥🔥 ⭐️”

Fans were gushing, too, including one who wrote, “Whoa! Holy hotness 🔥@officialcrystallowe! You are absolutely rocking this look and I love that you’re feeling beautiful powerful. F–k cancer! 🥰”

Someone else declared that Lowe “CRUSHED this assignment. 🔥🔥🔥”

Yan-Kay Crystal Lowe Was Diagnosed With Breast Cancer in the Fall of 2025 View this post on Instagram

In an essay written for People magazine, Lowe first shared her stage 3 breast cancer diagnosis publicly on October 10.

Lowe shared that her first symptom came months earlier, in February 2025, when she noticed a “large mass” in her right breast, and intuitively felt something wasn’t right. When scans showed nothing irregular, her doctor simply called it a “mystery.” But Lowe had a feeling it was something more.

Within a couple of months, the mass was not only still there, Lowe wrote, but “was changing in size and placement, and my confusion (and fear) kept growing. I didn’t feel any pain, but my nipple became inverted, so I went back to the doctor.”

By that point, the mass in her breast measured 10 centimeters and an immediate blind biopsy revealed she had Invasive Carcinoma in one of her ducts. She shared that she remembered “getting off the phone, curling up into a ball, and just bawling.”

With help from friends, family, and her husband, Miko Tomasevich, Lowe tackled each step of her treatment with a positive attitude and, incredibly, kept working through much of the journey, including on her most recent project: directing Ashley Williams and Alison Sweeney in their upcoming Christmas movie.

Kate Middleton has returned to the London hospital where she received cancer treatment, making a surprise visit to meet with patients and learn more about a new center focused on holistic cancer care.

The Princess of Wales, 44, visited The Royal Marsden Hospital on Friday, September 11, where she met with patients currently undergoing treatment and spoke with medical staff about the importance of supporting patients beyond their medical care.

The visit comes after Kate secretly completed the National Three Peaks Challenge in June, climbing Ben Nevis in Scotland, Scafell Pike in England, and Snowdon in Wales within 24 hours. She took on the challenge to raise money for The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity and spotlight the role of holistic care in cancer recovery.

During Friday’s visit, Kate learned how funds raised through the challenge will support the development of a new Centre for Holistic Wellbeing and Recovery at the hospital. The planned center will take a broader approach to cancer care, incorporating physical, emotional, spiritual, and social well-being.

Kate also reflected on her own experience receiving care at the hospital.

“This is my small way of being able to give back and say thank you to you,” Middleton said on Friday, per a report from People. “I had incredible care here and support from a huge team and I’m really really grateful on a personal level.”

She continued, ““But also the holistic care, the treatments and therapeutic support on the outside is so important,” she continued. “It makes a big difference, the impact of nature, the impact of good nutrition, good ongoing support around you when it’s really difficult to manage the trials and tribulations of medical treatments … it makes a big difference. It made a big difference to me and it made a huge difference to lots of patients who I’ve spoken to. Thank you and well done.”

Kate announced her cancer diagnosis in March 2024 after undergoing abdominal surgery earlier that year. She subsequently received chemotherapy at The Royal Marsden. In January 2025, Kate revealed that she was in remission during a visit to the same hospital. She and Prince William became joint patrons of The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust later that year.

Kate has since returned to public duties while continuing to champion causes related to health and well-being. The amount raised through her Three Peaks Challenge has not been publicly disclosed.

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There’s one thing that every home needs, and that’s storage. Whether you’re staying in a one-bedroom apartment or a big house, it’s inevitable that you’ll accumulate enough items to need an extra cabinet or two. Contrary to popular belief, you can make extra storage look intentional, thanks to Wayfair’s sleek furniture offerings. The retailer is selling the Ebern Designs Tall Arched Cabinet for up to 38% off right now, and it’s perfect for chic farmhouse-style homes.

The cabinet originally cost $355, but has been reduced to as low as $218 in the black colorway during a warehouse clearout event. You can additionally shop for the piece in light brown, natural, and dark brown, with the maximum sale price being $240. Just note that the white hue is already sold out, so you’ll have to act quickly in order to snag your color preference at a discount! 

Ebern Designs Tall Arched Cabinet, From $218 (was $355) at Wayfair

Courtesy of Wayfair

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The cabinet is 71 inches tall, 31 inches wide, and 15.8 inches long, so it’s fairly large and can fit a significant amount of items. The arched furniture design is the “perfect size” with five shelves, which reviewers said give you “plenty of room” for everything from books to kitchen products. For reference, one customer said that they filled it with their crockpot, instant pot, and “loads of groceries” with ease. 

The furniture weighs nearly 80 pounds and can hold up to 200 pounds, which means you will definitely need an extra set of hands to help you maneuver it where you’d like. There are even adjustable foot pads that you can place on the bottom to protect your floors and keep it level on uneven surfaces. 

You will have to assemble the furniture when it gets delivered, but shoppers said that the instructions were “very clear” and “easy” to follow. According to customers, it’ll take you approximately three or four hours to put together, so you can make your interior design vision come to life in less than a day. The piece is made from solid and manufactured wood and detailed with wood knots to give it character. Keep this luxurious cabinet looking seamless by wiping it down with a cloth, and you’ll have the perfect storage piece for years to come

For family homes, there’s even a tipover restraint device that comes with your purchase, making this a practical buy all-around. Shoppers really loved that the doors are magnetic so that they close easily, too. The classic black handles also give it that sleek farmhouse-style design that would also be a great option for rustic, bohemian, or European-inspired homes. With its arched top and elegant wooden construction, it looks like the type of piece you’d usually only stumble on by luck in an antique store..

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The beauty of this cabinet is not only the design, but also the fact that it helps you stay organized. Shop it now at Wayfair, while it’s up to 38% off! 

Related: Martha Stewart’s Gold-Trimmed Organizer Bin 6-Pack Is an ‘Elegant’ Way to Tidy Up Your Junk Drawer

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Jimmy Kimmel found an unexpected target during his latest late-night monologue: Grindr. The host couldn’t resist weighing in after the gay dating app reportedly experienced an outage during the Republican convention in Dallas.

Kimmel used the reported Grindr outage to take aim at the Republican convention, noting that the same-sex dating app also experienced outages during the GOP convention in Milwaukee in 2024. He then joked about the apparent spike in activity before delivering his biggest punchline: “Trump’s the only president to bring down democracy and a gay dating app at the same time.”

“Once again, Grindr, the same-sex dating app, got so much activity during this Republican convention,” Kimmel joked. “It couldn’t handle all the traffic.”

“Grindr had outages in Dallas, just like it did at their convention in Milwaukee in 2024,” he continued. “And of course, there was a huge spike in Cleveland in 2016. It would seem that there is a lot of man-on-man action happening at this convention. And not just JD Vance humping Trump‘s cankle, a lot of people. It’s amazing.”

Meanwhile, Reddit users were having their own fun with the reported outage. In a thread on r/OutOfTheLoop, one person questioned whether the connection between Grindr outages and Republican conventions was actually more urban legend than fact.

“This sounds like it is probably an urban legend,” the user wrote. “Did Grindr crash once in a city that had a Republican convention going at the same time? Does it even make sense from a technical standpoint that a bunch of people being in one location would crash a nationwide app?”

Another Reddit user argued that a concentrated surge in traffic could, in fact, cause technical problems.

“From a technical standpoint: Absolutely,” the commenter explained. “Tons of traffic from one location all attempting to access the same databases can absolutely overload it. It doesn’t have to be from the same location either, just imagine 300 people all trying to rush through a door only meant for 2 or 3. It jams up. Same thing with network traffic.”

The thread quickly filled with jokes of its own, including one commenter riffing on the “300 people” analogy with, “Black Friday riots find this to be…… true!”

In other words, Kimmel wasn’t the only one getting mileage out of Grindr’s latest reported outage.

Twenty-five years after the September 11 terrorist attacks changed the course of American history, Barack and Michelle Obama are remembering those who were lost and reflecting on what the country experienced in the days that followed.

In a post shared jointly to Instagram, the former president and first lady acknowledged that for younger Americans, including those who were not yet born in 2001, it can be difficult to understand what that morning felt like.

“The shock of that beautiful, cloudless morning. The heartbreak of the families whose loved ones were taken with such swiftness and cruelty. The realization that the forces of malevolence and violence were closer, and the future less certain, than we knew,” the statement read.

View this post on Instagram

Their message also focused on what emerged in the aftermath of the attacks.

“In the days that followed, we felt something else, too,” the Obamas wrote, pointing to the pride Americans felt in the rescue workers who rushed toward danger and the passengers who fought back against the hijackers by storming the cockpit, as well as the men and women who chose to serve their country in the wars that followed. “A deep resolve that nothing would break the will of a truly United States of America.”

For the Obamas, those acts of courage remain an important part of how Americans should remember September 11.

“Today Michelle and I are remembering those we lost that day, and those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the wars that followed,” the couple wrote in closing. “We pray for their families. And we hope Americans everywhere remember the true lesson of 9/11: that we can survive even our darkest days as long as we move forward as one nation and one people.

Their statement comes as the nation marks 25 years since the attacks that killed nearly 3,000 people at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and aboard the four hijacked planes.

Related: The 9/11 Child Who Turned Her Loss Into A Life Helping Others Heal

If you love setting sail out of Texas, big news just dropped: Carnival Cruise Line has officially opened reservations for its newest mega-ship, Carnival Tropicale, debuting in Galveston on April 15, 2028.

Galveston has rapidly become one of the hottest cruise hubs in the country, and Carnival is doubling down on the Lone Star State with this 180,000-ton vessel—which will proudly wear the Texas Lone Star across her bow.

As the fifth and final ship in Carnival’s game-changing Excel class, Tropicale will blend high-seas thrills with vintage glam, drawing inspiration from the golden era of show business across its entertainment and venue spaces.

Ready to see what’s in store? Here’s a first look at all the brand-new features coming to Carnival Tropicale.

Related: The New Travel Credit Card That Can Earn You Carnival Cruise Line Status—Without Even Leaving Home

A Texas-Sized First Look at Sunsation Point

Carnival Cruise Line

While previous Excel-class ships debuted roller coasters at sea, Carnival is leaning heavily into reimagined family thrills and all-day entertainment for Tropicale.

The standout reveal is Sunsation Point, a sprawling, multi-deck family district designed to stay energized from morning pool sessions to late-night deck parties. The zone is anchored by Carnival WaterWorks Ultra, which the line calls its most family-friendly waterpark to date, packing in six waterslides—including headline body slides dubbed SunSoaker, Turning Tides, and Racing Currents—alongside extended night hours for after-dark splashes.

On deck, cruisers will also find:

• Fairway 66 Mini Golf: A retro-themed putting green paying homage to historic Route 66.
• The Treehouse Adventure Trail: A high-flying network of suspended nets, rope bridges, and physical obstacles.
• The Vault Retrocade: A neon-drenched arcade merging vintage 80s and 90s cabinet classics with modern virtual-reality gaming.

The Next Course: Emeril’s Vision and Fresh Global Flavors

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival is giving its onboard dining a major upgrade across its newest ships. Introduced as part of The Next Course—a collection of brand-new specialty restaurant concepts debuting on Carnival Festivale in 2027 and coming to Tropicale in 2028—guests can look forward to:

• Emeril’s Coastal Seafood: Developed in partnership with Carnival’s Chief Culinary Officer Emeril Lagasse, this destination eatery builds on his signature Gulf Coast and New England roots, bringing elevated coastal seafood and raw-bar towers to the high seas.
• Uku Lei Lei: A vibrant dining concept marrying traditional Hawaiian island flavors with modern pan-Asian street-food influences.
• Fetaccine: A playful, cross-cultural venue that artfully blends Greek coastal herbs and cheeses with authentic Italian handmade pasta.

Related: Carnival Makes a Major Change to Its Loyalty Program—What It Means for Your Next Cruise

Unlocking the “Paradise Collection” and Smarter Rewards

Carnival

When Carnival Tropicale sets sail from Galveston, it will run four-, five-, six-, and eight-day itineraries geared specifically toward private island relaxation.

The ship will serve as a direct pipeline to Carnival’s newly minted Paradise Collection of exclusive destinations. Sailings will feature regular calls at Celebration Key on Grand Bahama, the secluded sands of RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay, and Mexico’s Isla Tropicale and Puerta Maya, alongside classic Caribbean stops like Progreso and Nassau.

The timing of the ship’s debut also coincides with Carnival’s broader operational evolution. Cruisers booking these maiden 2028 itineraries can take advantage of Carnival’s newly restructured, spend-based loyalty rewards program, which rewards travelers not just for sea days, but for their overall investment in onboard specialty dining, elevated shore excursions, and cabin upgrades.

With reservations officially live, Carnival isn’t just delivering a new flagship to the Gulf—it’s proving that the biggest splash in cruise travel is happening deep in the heart of Texas.

Related: Carnival Unveils a Brand-New Rewards Program Unlike Anything Else at Sea

Taylor Swift is heading back to the CMA Awards.

The superstar confirmed Thursday that she will attend the 60th Annual Country Music Association Awards on November 18 in Nashville, marking her first appearance at the ceremony in 10 years. Swift last attended the CMAs in 2016, when she presented Garth Brooks with the Entertainer of the Year award.

Swift shared the news on Instagram alongside the CMA Awards’ announcement of this year’s nominees, which includes “I Knew It, I Knew You,” an original song she wrote for Toy Story 5, for Single Of The Year.

“LOOKS LIKE I HAVEN’T YEE’D MY LAST HAW THANK YOU CMA!!!! See you there Nov. 18 🤠,” she wrote on an Instagram story.

The track, produced by Jack Antonoff, recently reached No. 1 on U.S. country radio, marking Swift’s first country radio chart-topper in more than a decade.

The nomination is another nod to Swift’s country roots. She began her career in Nashville before becoming one of the world’s biggest pop stars, has won 12 CMA Awards throughout her career, including Entertainer of the Year in 2009 and 2011, and her album Fearless is the most awarded country album in music history. A win this year would give her 13 CMA trophies.

Swift’s “I Knew It, I Knew You” will compete for Single of the Year – a category dominated almost entirely by women this year – against Ella Langley’s “Be Her” and “Choosin’ Texas,” Lainey Wilson’s “Somewhere Over Laredo” and Cody Johnson’s “The Fall.”

It has been another headline-making year for Swift, who continues to find new ways to keep fans guessing. From her return to country music to her latest work for the big screen – and of course her star-studded nuptials – the singer-songwriter has remained firmly in the spotlight.

The 2026 CMA Awards will take place at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena on Nov. 18, with Lainey Wilson serving as host.

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As Dolly Parton sang in her 1987 song “Wildflowers,” “When a flower grows wild, it can always survive.” Once those blooms are clipped, though, they need somewhere to live out the rest of their days. And honestly, we’re always looking for an excuse to bring a little more of the outdoors inside. A few garden cuttings instantly add color and make any space feel more welcoming, especially when they’re displayed in a piece with some personality of its own.

The Dolly Parton 6.5-Inch Pink White Speckled Round Bud Vase checks all the right boxes, bringing a cheerful dose of Dolly’s country-inspired style to your decor. Available for $17 at Walmart, it’s an easy way to add a decorative touch to a room without making a major change. 

Dolly Parton 6.5-Inch Pink White Speckled Round Bud Vase, $17 at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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The shape alone gives this vase plenty of presence. Measuring approximately 6.5 inches wide and 6.9 inches high, it has a rounded, almost gourd-like body that gradually narrows toward the top before opening into a short, gently flared rim. The silhouette is softened by the curved sides and slightly flattened base, while the narrow neck keeps the proportions from appearing overly bulky. 

The most distinctive detail is the vertical ribbed pattern that runs from the shoulder to the bottom of the vessel. Wide coral ridges alternate with recessed white channels, creating a striped effect that follows the rounded contours of the vase rather than sitting on top as a simple printed pattern. The white sections are slightly irregular and dotted with tiny darker speckles, giving the finish a handmade, pottery-inspired quality. Because the stripes curve with the body, they also emphasize the vase’s rounded shape, making it look subtly different depending on the angle you’re viewing it from.

At the top, the ribbing tapers neatly into the narrower neck, where the stripes give way to a smooth coral-colored rim. The smaller opening makes it especially suited to a few carefully chosen stems rather than a sprawling bouquet. Fill it with freshly clipped garden flowers, wildflowers, eucalyptus, lavender, delicate branches, or dried grasses for different looks throughout the year. A couple of roses can give it a more traditional feel, while airy stems or wispy grasses lean more cottage-inspired. 

You could even use it to hold faux florals when you want the color and texture of an arrangement without having to keep checking the water levels. The opening is also wide enough to double as a petite catchall, making it handy for corralling pens and pencils on a desk or keeping a few makeup brushes neatly contained on a vanity. Left empty, its sculptural shape and striped surface are enough to make it work as a decorative accent on a bookshelf, nightstand, shelf, or console.

Related: Martha Stewart’s Striped Accent Ottoman Looks Straight Out of a Cozy Farmhouse, and It’s 46% Off

Whether you’re clipping the last flowers from your summer garden or just want an easy way to bring country style into your home, the Dolly Parton 6.5-Inch Pink White Speckled Round Bud Vase makes a charming landing spot for your prettiest stems. Pick it up for $17 at Walmart while it’s still in stock.

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SPOILER ALERT! This article contains events from the Big Brother 28 live feeds that have yet to be aired on the television episodes. Please don’t read ahead if you prefer not to know competition winners and nominees ahead of time.

The time travel season that is Big Brother 28 has officially gone into double time. We’re less than three weeks away from the finale, and with an icon finally out of the game in Angela Murray, the balance of power is up for grabs. If the past couple of rounds are any indication, we are in for some wild vote swings in the next seven days. And that will only be magnified when the houseguests will face this season’s double eviction, which could be used as an opportunity to take down a major player.

Here’s everything you need to know about this week on Big Brother 28, including Head of Household and veto winners, nominees, and who is likely to go.

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Who is Head of Household on Big Brother 28 this week? Yash Patel Yash Patel on ‘Big Brother 28’

Evan Mulling/CBS

Since making his deal with the icons, Yash Patel has actively avoided trying to win HoH. This week, however, he finally bit the bullet, guaranteeing his spot in the Final Six.

Who was nominated this week on Big Brother 28?

Check back on Friday to see who has been nominated for eviction this week. However, given Yash’s binding deal made with the “BB Bribe” a few weeks ago, we predict the trio of Barrett Pfeiffer, Drew Campbell and Melody Morris should be hitting the block.

Related: ‘Big Brother 28’ Cast Includes Famous Relatives, Reality Stars and More Unexpected Connections

Who won the Veto this week on Big Brother 28?

Check back on Saturday to find out who won the Power of Veto this week.

Was the Veto used this week on Big Brother 28?

Check back on Monday to find out whether the Veto was used this week.

Who will be evicted this week on Big Brother 28?

Check back on Tuesday or Wednesday to find out who will be voted out this week.

Related: ‘Big Brother 28’ La Trice ‘Lala’ Verrett Predicts Drew’s Downfall: ‘He’s a Weasel’ (Exclusive) 

For Cait Leavey, the legacy of her father, FDNY Lt. Joseph Leavey, is deeply connected to the work she does today.

Leavey was 10 years old when her father was killed on Sept. 11, 2001. Lt. Leavey made it to the 70th floor of the South Tower before he was killed.

“Service has been a very important part of my healing since losing my father on 9/11,” Leavey said in an emotional video shared by the 9/11 Memorial & Museum on Instagram.

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Her father’s dedication to his work and commitment to helping others became an inspiration for Leavey as she found her own way to serve.

“His commitment and his love for his job, how he served others, inspired me to continue his legacy,” she said.

Today, Leavey works as a mental health counselor, helping children and adults process difficult experiences. Art has also become an important part of how she approaches that work.

“Art is definitely involved in my way of helping children and adults process,” she said.

Leavey said the response of communities following the attacks also shaped her understanding of healing and resilience.

“The way our communities came together after 9/11 was remarkable,” she wrote in a post shared on the 15th anniversary of the attacks. “It taught me that despite all our differences, we all have ability to come together: to listen, learn and accept one another,” she said. “I learned how difficult and messy traumatic events can be on our lives, but also learned how resiliency can be beautiful.”

For Leavey, honoring Sept. 11 means more than remembering what happened that day. It means carrying forward the stories of those who were lost and using those experiences to help others.

“9/11 isn’t just about the day; it’s about our stories, our legacy,” she said in the short clip.

Her goal is to turn her own experience with loss into a source of support for others.

“If I can make an impact, and if I can help other kids who’ve gone through something similar to me … that’s my calling,” Leavey said.

Henry Winkler became known as a pop culture icon in the 1970s, but his legendary status didn’t get him very far with Mick Jagger years later.

The actor, best known for playing Arthur “Fonzie” Fonzarelli on Happy Days from 1974 to 1984, recently appeared on In Depth With Graham Besinger, where he recalled an awkward encounter with the Rolling Stones frontman.

“I met Mick Jagger twice,” Winkler, 80, told Besinger during the interview. “I saw him in a wonderful sushi restaurant a few years ago, and I went up to him and I am tongue-tied with musicians. And I went, ‘Hi, Mick.’ And this is what he did. He’s talking to his girlfriend. ‘Henry,’ [he said]. And that’s it.”

Winkler noted that Jagger then turned away from him and continued talking to the woman he was with.

“And I go, I’m just going to become so small that you will not be able to see me standing here and I will slink away,” Winkler shared.

RELATED: 1981 Rolling Stones Song Was Left Unfinished for Nearly a Decade

Winkler previously opened up about the rock star snub in 2022.

“I was in a restaurant, and I walked up to Mick Jagger and I said, ‘Hello, I’m Henry Winkler and I have all of your albums… I was at your concert before I came to Hollywood,'” Winkler recalled on Jimmy Kimmel Live, before noting that Jagger barely acknowledged him before turning away.

“I slunk out of the restaurant,” Winkler said, adding that he apologized to the singer for interrupting his dinner.

“I went ‘I’m so sorry, you know what, I didn’t mean to disturb you. Enjoy the sushi. It was such a pleasure, I love your album,’” Winkler recalled of the embarrassing exchange.

Winkler had a better experience when he met Frank Sinatra after one of his concerts years ago.

“I meet him backstage,” Winkler said on Besinger’s podcast. “He goes, ‘I’m so happy to meet you.’ I introduce him to an entourage of people,  [my wife] Stacy,  and Ron Howard and Ron Howard’s wife and other human beings. And after it’s over, we go back, and he remembers everybody’s name and says goodbye.”

Related: Henry Winkler Handled a ‘Happy Days’ Heckler in a Way That Was Pure Fonzie

Grandparents bonding with their grandkids isn’t frivolous. In fact, family psychologists say the grandparent-grandchild relationship is a source of intergenerational connection that shouldn’t be underestimated.

“In this day and age, trusted adults beyond just parents are more important than ever,” Dr. Matthew Leahy, PhD, a clinical psychologist, tells Parade. “Grandparents are also able to interact with their grandchildren in ways that are sometimes markedly different from parents—ways that can be enriching and even fun.”

Think family stories, fun weekend activities or late nights watching movies, all of which Dr. Leahy says can become fond memories. Another family psychologist shares similar sentiments.

“A child’s bond to a grandparent can be an additional source for that child of stable and loving support beyond what is available in their nuclear home,” says Dr. Shannon Franklin, PsyD, a licensed psychologist at Element Q Healing. “That same bond provides a means by which the child can develop a sense of being part of a family’s past as well as a sense of security within a calm, accepting relationship.”

Dr. Franklin adds that intergenerational connection is a two-way street.

“The bond is also an opportunity for the grandparent to experience a sense of belonging and relevance to the younger generations,” she states.

Still, knowing how to be a good grandparent and how to connect with grandkids can feel tough, especially since parenting norms have changed. However, family psychologists say some basic rules still apply. They reveal seven things grandparents with the closest bonds with their grandkids do consistently well. Plus, they offer expert-approved advice on long-distance grandparenting (hint: technology is not just for “kids these days!”).

Related: We Asked 3 Child Psychologists What Hobby Is Best for Grandparents and Grandkids—They All Said the Same Thing

7 Things Grandparents With the Closest Bonds With Their Grandkids Do, According to Psychologists

From sharing family history to unconditional love, grandparent-grandchild bonding offers many benefits. But it doesn’t always come naturally. Family psychologists share seven ways grandparents can show up and develop close connections with grandkids.

1. They respect parents’ boundaries

Grandparent boundaries are key—and family psychologists say that means respecting parents’ rules, regulations and limits, such as around sugar and screens.

“Understand that their parents know the children best and generally have their needs and best interests in mind when they set limits,” states Dr. Deborah Vinall, PsyD, LMFT, a licensed therapist and the Chief Psychological Consultant with Recovered.org. “Children feel safest and most connected when there is no friction between the adults in their lives, so don’t disregard this relationship, including the relationship with your son- or daughter-in-law.”

Related: We Asked 4 Child Psychologists What They Wish More Grandparents Would Stop Doing—They All Said the Same Thing

2. They ask open-ended, low-stakes questions

You may really crave more insights into your grandchild’s life, but can’t pull anything more out of them than one-word answers, like “OK” and “Fine.” Dr. Franklin says you may need to change your question. For instance, instead of constantly asking, “How did you do at school?” try something like, “What were you laughing about today?” or “What are your interests these days?”

“The desire here is to show an interest rather than interrogate,” she explains. “When there isn’t pressure to provide a specific response, children will be much more apt to express themselves.”

3. They enter their grandchild’s world

You may feel rather silly to find yourself quoting the latest Disney movie or singing Olivia Rodrigo‘s latest hit. But family psychologists say these are actually signs of a good grandparent.

“When grandparents are involved, they can show that they have an active interest in the child’s life by taking an interest in things that matter to their grandchild,” Dr. Franklin notes. “Showing an interest in something important to the child conveys the message, ‘What is important to you is also important to me.'”

Related: 10 Things ‘Naturally Nurturing’ Grandparents Do Differently, According to Child Psychologists

4. They listen without immediately trying to fix things

You may be handy with a tool kit in the kitchen, but good grandparents don’t need to take a monkey wrench to their grandchildren’s problems. A listening ear will do.

“When children feel that grandparents listen first to their thoughts and feelings without immediately giving them solutions, those grandparents create an atmosphere of trust in which children may be more likely to share things with them,” Dr. Franklin explains. “At times, a child may want only comfort, curiosity or confirmation and not necessarily have a need for a solution.”

5. They make their grandchildren feel deeply valued

Dr. Leahy knows most grandparents love their grandchildren. But there’s something special about a grandparent who has their fridge covered in every picture or award a grandchild shares with them and a basket full of every small gift a grandchild bought for them at the school holiday gift fair. Not one for stuff? Dr. Leahy says showing up to sporting and school events lets kids know, “You’re the apple of my eye.”

“Kids see this and notice it,” he shares.

6. They share the legacy

Sharing family history is a natural role for grandparents, and it can deepen bonds with grandchildren.

“Grandparents have a special role in sharing memories, sharing tales of a different time, and showing sides to parents that only they have had access to,” says Dr. Amy Vigliotti, PhD, a licensed psychologist and the founder of SelfWorks. “They are the proud holders of the child’s history that happened before they were both.”

7. They let the relationship change when the child gets older

Dr. Leahy reminds us that we change as the years pass, and so do grandchildren.

“Grandparents notice this and know that their relationship with their grandchildren needs to, and will, adapt over time, and they don’t try to fight it,” he explains. “For example, the overnight weekends may start happening less and less until they’re eventually gone.”

That’s natural—friends and peers become more important to teens, Dr. Leahy stresses. He says grandparents will allow space for and respect that.

Related: We Asked 4 Child Psychologists What They Wish More Grandparents Prioritized—They All Said the Same Thing

3 Tips for Long-Distance Grandparenting

Proximity can help grandparent-grandchild bonding. But you don’t need to live in the same state or even on the same continent to form an intergenerational connection. An Internet connection can help, though. Below, family psychologists shared advice for long-distance grandparenting.

1. Create a predictable point of connection in a digital world

If proximity isn’t in your favor, Dr. Leahy says you’ll want to lean heavily on consistency. For instance, you might send daily texts, have quick weekly video chats and hop on longer calls occasionally.

“Kids know their grandparents are still there and thinking about them, even if they are miles away, so it’s worth it to know how to use technology,” he states. “Finding a set day, time or moment that can be a connection point with a grandchild helps keep the relationship part of everyday life.”

As kids get older and get phones and emails, Dr. Vinall advises against relying on parents to stay connected. Instead, reach out directly with warm encouragement or “thinking of you” messages.

“This demonstrates that they are important to you as individuals, not only as part of the family system,” she shares. “Of course, it is important to maintain warm and healthy relationships with both parents, as well, so you are all on the same team of loving the grandkids well.”

2. Stay involved in the ordinary details

Dr. Franklin says it’s unnecessary to rely on special occasions, like birthdays, or big life events, such as a graduation, to stay in touch. Small moments matter, and consistent contact will help with this.

“Taking an interest in the daily aspects of their lives by remembering names of friends they’ve made at school, what happened during a recent sports event or simply sending a quick hello before a show or other performance can help create a sense of continuity that is felt far beyond those special moments,” she explains. “Understanding the little things about their daily life can sometimes bring them closer to you than larger one-time gestures.”

3. Do something together

Words matter, but actions have their place.

“When you make long-distance calls, it feels like everything is just a question,” Dr. Franklin notes. “Whether grandparents are reading the same book, playing the same video game online, cooking the same meal or watching their favorite TV show, they can do these things at the same time. This gives the child something to talk about naturally and helps them have memories that will last from a distance.”

Up Next:

Related: The #1 Habit of Highly Respected Grandparents, According to a Family Psychologist

Sources:

• Dr. Shannon Franklin, PsyD, is a licensed psychologist and the Clinical Director of Element Q Healing.
• Dr. Matthew Leahy, PhD, is a clinical psychologist based in Dallas, TX.
• Dr. Deborah Vinall, PsyD, LMFT, is a licensed therapist and the Chief Psychological Consultant with Recovered.org.
• Dr. Amy Vigliotti, PhD, is a licensed psychologist and founder of SelfWorks.

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While some people spend their weekends catching up with friends, spending time outside, or unwinding in front of their favorite TV show, I spend mine baking. I am forever working to get ahead of a busy week by prepping muffins, biscuits, banana bread, granola bars, and quiches for my family over the weekend. I also love making desserts like cookies and cakes that we can share with neighbors and our extended family, so I devote a lot of my free time to the task. Baking is basically my love language. 

Between the time I spend in the kitchen and a work week full of online shopping, I know a good baking deal when I see it. One that recently caught my eye at Walmart has everything you’d need to whip up any sort of baked good. Plus, it’s backed by Food Network star Rachael Ray, so you know the quality is top-notch. Perfectly timed to the cozy fall baking season right around the corner, the Rachael Ray Mix and Measure 10-Piece Set is discounted from the usual $44 price to just $35, which works out to a mere $3.50 per piece.

Rachael Ray Mix and Measure 10-Piece Set, $35 (was $44) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Every kitchen needs a good set of measuring cups, and this set includes a standard five-piece version with one-quarter, one-third, half-cup, 1-cup, and 2-cup options. The cups all nest inside one another for easy storage when not in use. Also included are two silicone utensils — a flat spatula and a spoonula — so you have what you need to scoop, stir, spread, and sauté any recipe.

The set comes with three nesting mixing bowls measuring 2 quarts, 3 quarts, and 4 quarts. Each bowl has a rubber ring around the base that’ll grip the countertop to keep it from slipping while you work. Built-in handles and pour spouts let you conveniently transfer batter, sauces, and other ingredients into baking dishes or onto pans with fewer drips and splatters to clean up. 

Rachael Ray Mix and Measure 10-Piece Set, $35 (was $44) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Walmart shoppers were impressed by this “very durable” set, calling the pieces the “best tools in the kitchen.” A reviewer said the bowls, spatulas, and measuring cups are so useful they’re “irreplaceable.” While the pieces are not microwaveable, everything in the set is top-rack dishwasher safe for easy cleaning.

Getting ahead on your holiday shopping? One customer called this 10-piece set a “perfect gift” for bakers, and it’d even be great to give for a housewarming or birthday present.

Shop More Deals

• Beautiful by Drew Barrymore 3-Piece Stoneware Nesting Mixing Bowl Set, $20 (was $33) at Walmart
• Carote 9-Piece Stackable Nonstick Bakeware Set, $30 (was $60) at Walmart
• Rachael Ray 3-Piece Ceramic Casserole Bakers, $44 (was $55) at Walmart

Related: The Pioneer Woman’s $11 4-Piece Stoneware Mug Set Brings a ‘Cheerful, Cozy Touch’ of Country Charm to Your Kitchen

Whether you’re a home cook whose kitchen needs a refresh or you want to snag an early holiday gift for your favorite baker, the Rachael Ray Mix and Measure 10-Piece Set is a deal worth investing in at just $35. Snag it at Walmart now while it’s still on sale!

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

Face serums have become a favorite skincare product for anyone trying to address skin concerns like hyperpigmentation, fine lines, dehydration or persistent dullness.

People spend significant money and time working serums into their daily routines, yet despite best efforts, they may not be getting the most out of their products.

The issue almost certainly isn’t the quality of the bottle resting on your counter; it is a single, widespread application error that is holding back your skincare routine.

Millions of well-meaning skincare enthusiasts smooth their hydrating formulas onto bone-dry skin after washing their faces, completely unaware that doing so prevents the ingredients from absorbing as effectively as they should.

When placed directly onto dry surface cells rather than a damp base, hydrating humectants simply cannot deliver their full potential.

Fortunately, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Marisa Garshick, MD, FAAD has revealed a simple, immediate adjustment to fix this common routine flaw, ensuring every single drop of your favorite serum works properly to give you the healthy, supple skin you deserve.

Related: Dermatologists Settle the Debate: Does Vitamin C Really Fade Dark Spots?

The Damp Skin Secret: Why Application Timing Changes Everything

To get the most out of any skincare step, understanding when and how to apply concentrated ingredients is just as important as selecting the right bottle.

While it can feel natural to wait until your face is completely dry before smoothing on your products, hydrating formulas require a totally different approach to maximize their absorption.

“One serum trick that some people don’t realize is that certain serums, specifically hydrating serums containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin, are actually more effective when applied to damp skin,” Dr. Garshick recently shared with Parade.

Applying these hydrating formulas right after cleansing allows your skin to better absorb the active ingredients, which means you’re not wasting money by using the product when it’s less effective.

If you step away from the sink or prefer to wait a bit after washing your face before continuing your routine, Dr. Garshick offered a quick and practical workaround: “Spray skin with a thermal spring water just prior to applying the serum.”

Related: 12 Best Serums for Hyperpigmentation, According to Estheticians

When the Damp Skin Rule Backfires: Why Some Serums Demand Dry Application

However, it is equally crucial to recognize that this damp-skin rule only applies to hydrating formulas. Applying other targeted treatments to a wet face can actually trigger unpleasant side effects and unnecessary sensitivity.

“Serums containing active ingredients like retinol or vitamin C can actually be more irritating if applied to damp skin,” Dr. Garshick warned. To protect your skin barrier from unwanted redness and peeling, always wait until your complexion is completely dry before smoothing on potent active treatments.

Related: 9 Korean Skincare Staples Professionals Reach for Again and Again

Getty

How To Layer and Press Serums for Maximum Absorption

Once you have established the right moisture base for your hydrating and active formulas, refining your physical application technique ensures your skin absorbs every drop without wasting expensive product. Pouring half a dropper into your hands and aggressively rubbing it over your face is one of the quickest ways to cause friction and ruin your results.

According to Dr. Garshick, using too much product is a frequent mistake that yields poor outcomes. “Some people assume more serum will deliver better results, but using too much can lead to pilling and irritation,” she said. “Most serums require only a few drops to cover the entire face.”

Also, instead of rubbing the liquid across your skin, gentle handling is key.

“Use your fingertips rather than aggressively rubbing it in,” Dr. Garshick advised. “Pressing helps [to minimize] unnecessary friction while ensuring adequate absorption.”

Proper order and timing are also essential when building a complete multi-step routine. “Serums are generally applied after cleansing and before moisturizer. This allows the concentrated active ingredients to come into direct contact with the skin and for optimal absorption,” she said.

Related: A Dermatologist Is Begging Women Over 50 To Try This Eye Lift Cream for Drooping Lids

When layering multiple products to target different concerns, stick to a simple structural rule. “When layering serums, I generally recommend applying products from thinnest to thickest. This helps ensure each product can properly penetrate the skin,” she said.

Furthermore, match your ingredients to the right time of day and avoid overloading your face with too many potent actives at once.

“Antioxidant serums, such as those with vitamin C, are often best used in the morning to help defend against environmental stressors. Repair serums, growth factor serums, DNA repair serums and retinoid-containing products are best in an evening routine,” Dr. Garshick noted.

Above all, remember that real results require consistency over several weeks.

Adapted from Parade’s “The Clever Serum Trick We Wish We’d Known About Sooner” by Chrissy Callahan

Up Next:

Related: I Tried Using Bubble Face Masks for 30 Days—Are They Worth It?

Source:

• Dr. Marisa Garshick, MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist

John Ritter’s sudden death 23 years ago today shone a bright spotlight on heart health. Now, his sons, Jason and Tyler Ritter, are carrying that vital message forward as the ultimate way to honor the late Three’s Company star.

The brothers spoke to CBS News Los Angeles about the upcoming John Ritter Foundation for Aortic Health’s annual Evening from the Heart LA gala. The event raises awareness for aortic health.

Tyler encouraged Ritter’s fans, particularly those whose family members have or had aortic disease, to get screened.

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He said, “I would say if anyone has a family member who’s had issues with their aorta, if they have aortic disease, then I think the most important message we can leave today is for first-degree relatives to get screened.” Tyler added, “That’s parents, children, and siblings.”

“We know this through first-hand experience. My dad’s older brother found out a few years after my dad passed that he had an aortic aneurysm. He had surgery and he’s still alive,” Tyler concluded.

Jason explained that in his own family, they had no idea that there was a history of aortic dissection. “We had heard about general, mysterious cardiac events,” he said.

The actor continued, “Now we have more information. So if that’s a thing in someone’s family, they can get checked.”

He concluded, “It’s completely preventable. If you know about it, you can totally prevent it.”

Martin Spanjers, Kaley Cuoco, John Ritter, Katey Sagal and Amy Davidson of the series ‘* Simple Rules’/Robert Trachtenberg/Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty Images

On September 11, 2003, six days before his 55th birthday, Ritter suddenly fell ill on the Burbank set of his sitcom, 8 Simple Rules… for Dating My Teenage Daughter. He experienced profuse sweating, nausea, and severe chest pain.

According to TODAY, doctors initially thought the actor was experiencing a heart attack. However, he was later found to have had an aortic dissection.

The American Heart Association states that an aortic dissection ‘is a tear in the inner layer of the aorta, the body’s largest artery. Blood surges through the tear, causing the layers of the aortic wall to separate (dissect).”

The John Ritter Foundation for Aortic Health’s annual Evening from the Heart LA gala takes place on September 12 at the Sunset Room Hollywood in Los Angeles, California. This event features a reunion of the cast of TV’s Wings, featuring appearances from the original cast members and special guests.

Related: ‘Three’s Company’ Most Hilarious Scene Includes a Cameo From a ’70s Superstar

For travelers entering their sixties and seventies, planning a milestone getaway rarely comes down to hunting for the rock-bottom cheapest price tag. Instead, it’s about solving what industry insiders call the true value equation: balancing physical stamina, logistical ease, and destination discovery against every dollar spent.

When it comes to full-service escapes, two types of vacations top the list: an ocean or river cruise, and a land-based all-inclusive resort.

Both promise seamless dining and stress-free vacation days. But when you look at everything you get—from visiting multiple destinations to hassle-free group logistics and built-in accessibility—many travel advisors and experienced road warriors find that a cruise often edges out as the better fit for travelers over 60.

“If I had to choose one overall, I think a cruise usually delivers more value for a destination-focused traveler over 60,” says Emma Guse, travel advisor with Travelmation and river cruise specialist at PlanYourRiverCruise.com. “The important thing is to compare the total cost, not the cruise line’s lowest advertised fare. A cruise is providing your accommodations, dining, entertainment, and transportation between several destinations. For travelers who want to see more without changing hotels or repeatedly packing and unpacking, that has real value.”

While data from InsureMyTrip established in 2022 that land-based vacations cost roughly 30% more on average than cruises—with land travelers spending around $6,426 compared to under $5,000 for a cruise—recent industry trends suggest that price gap remains just as strong today. That bottom-line advantage keeps travelers coming back—in fact, industry data from CLIA shows that a quarter of repeat cruisers sail two or more times a year, with 14% taking two annual trips and 11% taking three to five. It all begs the question of what makes the cruise model so consistently rewarding, starting with how you get from place to place.

Related: The 7 Ultimate Travel Experiences Forbes Says You Shouldn’t Miss

The Transit Factor and the Perks of a Moving Hotel You Unpack Once Relaxing in a Cabin with Sea View during a Cruise in Ha Long Bay, Vietnam. High quality photo

Philippe Brousse

The primary reason a cruise outpaces a resort on value comes down to transit. An all-inclusive resort parks you on a single stretch of beach. A cruise, by contrast, functions as a floating boutique hotel, restaurant hub, and luxury transit system that moves you through multiple countries or islands while you sleep.

“I’ve taken a Mediterranean cruise through Spain, Italy, and France, and it was a fantastic way to experience several places in one trip,” says travel writer Jen Curnutt. “We’d spend the day exploring and then sleep while the ship traveled to our next destination. There was no packing and unpacking, changing hotels, navigating trains or airports, or losing a good part of a vacation day getting from one city to another.”

Attempting to recreate that same multi-city European or Caribbean journey on land—booking regional trains or flights, paying porters, hailing cabs, and paying separate hotel room taxes—routinely costs double or triple the equivalent cruise fare.

While mainstream ocean lines can dilute that value with add-on charges for drinks and Wi-Fi, river cruises and luxury lines eliminate the guesswork entirely.

“River cruises take this even further because excursions and Wi-Fi are commonly included, along with beer and wine at meals on many lines,” notes Guse. “That’s why I often encourage clients to break the fare into a daily cost before deciding it’s too expensive.”

Related: Insider Tips for Choosing the Best Cabin on a Cruise Ship

Navigating Cruise Costs vs. The Resort Exception Lounge chairs beside pool.

Maria Korneeva

The only category where the all-inclusive resort edges out a cruise is purely financial predictability—especially for travelers whose sole vacation goal is stillness.

“For the over-60 traveler, it comes down to how often you leave the base and how you drink and tour,” says Duncan Greenfield-Turk, luxury travel director at Global Travel Moments. “An all-inclusive resort wins on peace of mind: one price covers food, drinks, tips, and most activities, so the number you book is close to the number you pay. Mainstream and premium cruises are where extras creep in… I tell clients to budget thirty to fifty percent above a mainstream cruise fare for the real total, whereas a true all-inclusive quote is usually final.”

For solo travelers or couples who want spacious suites, zero schedules, and quiet pool days, properties like Grand Velas or Hyatt Zilara offer great value. “At this point in my life, if I were traveling solo or as a couple and choosing between a cruise and a beautiful all-inclusive at roughly the same price, I might actually choose the resort,” Curnutt admits, noting the luxury of unhurried mornings without a port clock ticking in the back of your mind.

However, Duncan Greenfield-Turk points out that mature travelers can achieve that exact same all-inclusive peace of mind at sea by targeting the right lines.

For mid-tier elegance, Duncan and Guse both recommend Holland America Line for its live music venues, enrichment, and manageable mid-sized ships, as well as MSC Cruises’ Yacht Club for a private, butler-serviced sanctuary within a larger ship. When splurging on a milestone retirement trip, Duncan points directly to Regent Seven Seas: “The most genuinely all-inclusive at sea: included flights, all excursions, specialty dining, gratuities, and often a pre-cruise hotel night, so the wallet never comes out.”

Related: The Smart Way to Book a Private Cruise Excursion

The Deciding Factor: Multi-Gen Ease and Accessibility Happy senior woman being surprised with a small birthday cake while enjoying a special celebration with her family on a yacht

mixetto

Where the cruise decisively runs away with the crown is in two areas critical to travelers over 60: hosting family and accommodating shifting mobility.

When grandparents fund or coordinate vacations for adult children and grandchildren, land resorts often force someone into the role of unpaid tour operator. On a cruise, the ship does the heavy lifting. Guse recently led a four-generation group of 20 family members ranging from age 7 to 90 on an AmaWaterways Danube river cruise, noting that family members could take fast-paced bike rides or leisurely walking tours during the day, then easily reunite for dinner and evening shows without coordinating transport across borders.

Even more essentially, a ship provides a dignified, shared sanctuary when health conditions change. Curnutt experienced this firsthand when her father was diagnosed with a progressive neurological disease similar to ALS. The family took three cruises together as his physical abilities steadily declined.

“On our first cruise, he had balance issues but was still walking… By our final cruise, we had to help him dress, lift him into his wheelchair, and push him wherever he needed to go. Getting off the ship had become too difficult, and honestly, he didn’t care about that anymore. He just wanted to be somewhere new, traveling with his family,” Curnutt shares.

“My sister and I could stay onboard with my dad, take him to the pool, and spend time together while other family members explored the ports. At night, everyone came back together for dinner and usually a show. He could still be part of the family vacation even when his physical abilities were dramatically different from everyone else’s. That’s where I think a cruise can really outshine other types of travel for someone with mobility limitations.”

The Takeaway: While an all-inclusive resort offers a predictable receipt for a restful pool week, the cruise remains a strong value champion for the 60+ traveler—combining multi-city discovery, stress-free family planning, and built-in accessibility into a journey where you only have to unpack once.

Related: Hard-Shell or Soft-Sided Luggage? Professional Travelers Say There’s a Clear Winner