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Kevin Bacon and Kyra Sedgwick are giving fans another reason to believe in lasting love after 38 years of marriage.

Bacon and Sedgwick marked their anniversary with a simple but sentimental Instagram post, writing, “38 years with my love.” The longtime couple’s milestone quickly drew a flood of congratulatory comments, with fans praising their enduring relationship, calling them role models and marveling that they seemingly haven’t changed in nearly four decades. One fan even joked that the photo “cannot be from 38 years ago” because the couple “look virtually the same.”

Fans responded with anniversary wishes and heart emojis, with one calling their marriage “a true testament of how much you love each other and the commitment to one another.” Others praised Bacon and Sedgwick as “a great example to the world” and “the greatest role models ever.”

In a recent interview with People, the couple opened up about how, even after nearly four decades together, they still manage to surprise one another.

“I find that she is constantly surprising me,” Bacon said. “Not only with who she is, because she’s someone who is never stuck in one sort of idea. She’s much more willing to experience new things or try new things or change her mind about [things].”

He continued, “Like, she’s got a movie now called Carolina Caroline. It’s like one scene, and it’s an amazing, surprising kind of performance. I didn’t see her do it, but we were talking from the set. She said, ‘I’m really going for it, I hope it’s going to be okay,’ and I saw it and I was like, ‘Holy s—. I haven’t seen you do this before,’ so that’s cool as a performer and a person.”

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Sedgwick and Bacon met and fell in love in 1987 while filming Lemon Sky, which premiered the following year. Sedgwick later recalled on Conan that Bacon had arranged a group dinner for the cast, but she didn’t attend. Instead, he suggested she get a massage at the hotel where he was staying.

Sedgwick suggested that if his gym workout and her massage ended around the same time, they could meet for dinner afterward. “And I’m thinking, ‘Yeah, sure, that’s not going to happen. I’m not going to tell him when my massage is,’” she recalled. Years later, Bacon revealed that he had actually called the hotel to find out when her massage was scheduled. “Which is kind of creepy, but whatever,” Sedgwick joked.

The couple got engaged in December 1987 and married the following year. They welcomed their first child, Travis, in 1989, followed by daughter Sosie Ruth in 1992.

Decades into their marriage, Sedgwick has made it clear that the spark between them hasn’t faded. In a 2013 interview with Redbook, she said that when Bacon walks into a room, her “heart gets a little fluttery,” adding, “He’s so cute. He’s so hot.” She also said he remained “a mystery” to her, joking that the attraction was still “palpable” on set.

Sharon Stone is coming clean about what she experienced following her near-fatal stroke in 2001, which she couldn’t believe herself, and that led to a premonition involving her son.

In recent years, the actor has opened up more about the details of her stroke that was more serious than what was portrayed in the media at the time. Stone was at the height of her Basic Instinct and Casino fame when she experienced a severe headache.

The actor received medical attention, where she learned she was suffering from a subarachnoid hemorrhage, a potentially fatal type of stroke in which blood pools around the brain. Doctors diagnosed that a vertebral artery had ruptured and caused blood to leak into the space around her brain and spinal cord. Stone underwent surgery to repair the artery.

In an exclusive with Entertainment Weekly, Stone admits decades later that she had visions after returning home. She details having been visited by orbs in her dreams that she kept a secret because it was difficult to explain.

“When I was first home from the hospital, I couldn’t sleep at night and I was sleeping in the day,” Stone told host Mayim Bialik in an episode of Mayim Bialik’s Breakdown. “When I was laying on the couch, sleeping and awake, these orbs sort of presented themselves to me. These five orbs presented themselves to me and they sort of talked to me, but in a digital language.”

At the time, Stone and her then-husband Phil Bronstein were still together and had adopted her eldest son, Roan Joseph Bronstein, in 2000. The actor claims that the orbs she saw gave her a premonition about her future custody battle over her son.

“I just kept saying to them, ‘I don’t know if I’m supposed to stay here or if I’m supposed to die,’” Stone shared. “And they said, ‘You’re supposed to stay.’ And I said, ‘I can only stay if two of you will stay with my son. Because I don’t want him to be alone, and I think he’s gonna get taken from me.’”

Related: Sandra Bullock Makes Rare Comment on Dating Since Partner Bryan Randall’s Death

Stone and Bronstein divorced in 2004, with her ex-husband gaining custody of Roan in 2007, largely due to the type of roles she was taking on at the time. She still maintained some custody and visitation rights, while her son lived in San Francisco with Bronstein.

“Sure enough, he was taken from me,” she added, explaining her interaction with the orbs. “And I said, ‘We have to have an agreement. The two of you will stay with him and protect him.’ And they agreed. And they said, ‘But your destiny requires that we stay with you.’”

Whether Stone was fearful of the said orbs, she reveals that she was “curious” and was “very much at peace” with them. In the years that followed, Stone detailed how losing custody of her son broke her heart and how her role in Basic Instinct played a significant role and was used against her.

Jethro Tull’s “Wond’ring Aloud” has remained one of the softer and most loved songs from the band’s landmark 1971 album Aqualung. More than five decades after its release, the short acoustic song still stands out for its simple look at love and everyday life.

What makes the song’s story even more interesting is where it began. Jethro Tull leader Ian Anderson recalled that “Wond’ring Aloud” was written in a hotel room in America while the band was touring.

“Wond’ring Aloud was written, as I recall, in a hotel room in America,” Anderson said when discussing the making of Aqualung, according to Record Collector.

British rock group Jethro Tull in London on May 11, 1971.

Photo by Michael Putland/Getty Images

The song became part of Aqualung, the album that gave Jethro Tull its major international breakthrough. Released in 1971, the record became the band’s most commercially successful album and helped establish its place in rock history.

The story behind “Wond’ring Aloud” reflects the unusual life of a touring rock musician.

Anderson explained that many of the songs that eventually appeared on Aqualung had roots in Jethro Tull’s tours in America. Writing could happen in quiet and lonely places after the excitement of a concert ended.

“There would certainly have been some songs that did come in to the spontaneous category,” Anderson recalled. “Those that had been written and prepared earlier included Aqualung and probably Cross-Eyed Mary, and certainly My God. And Wond’ring Aloud was written, as I recall, in a hotel room in America.”

He described the feeling behind those hotel-room moments as a sharp change from life onstage.

“You walk off stage having entertained thousands of people for a couple of hours, and you go back to your sometimes really seedy little room and just sit there, and it’s all very, very lonely and empty.”

That sense of being away from home helped shape some of Anderson’s songwriting during the period. He described the experience as being an outsider in a foreign place, with the quiet of a hotel room standing in strong contrast to the crowds and noise of a concert.

For “Wond’ring Aloud,” however, the result was not a dark song about loneliness. Anderson later placed it in the broad category of a love song, while explaining that his writing was often based on observation rather than direct personal experiences.

“My songs are more often observational, written about third persons in a particular context and a social or physical environment,” he said.

Anderson also said that songs such as “Wond’ring Aloud” were not tied to one exact personal moment. Instead, they could grow from general ideas, memories and observations.

“Wond’ring Aloud” is one of the briefest and most intimate moments on Aqualung. That helped separate it from the album’s heavier songs and its discussions of homelessness, religion and social problems.

In a ranking of romantic classic rock songs, Collider placed “Wond’ring Aloud” at No. 10. It described the track as an acoustic and short song that presents thoughts about a morning spent with a lover.

The song’s simple setting is part of its appeal. Instead of relying on the hard-rock sound that Jethro Tull could produce, it uses bright acoustic guitar, piano and strings to create a much gentler arrangement.

Collider noted that the song presents “deep thoughts in a simple scene” and called it an overlooked part of rock history.

Aqualung itself became a major turning point for Jethro Tull. The album was released in the United Kingdom on March 19, 1971, and reached No. 4 there. In the United States, it was released on May 3, 1971, and reached No. 7.

The album eventually sold more than 15 million copies. It also became the band’s most successful album and helped spread Jethro Tull’s reputation around the world.

“Wond’ring Aloud” also received a new musical treatment years later. Anderson selected the song for The String Quartets, a project that reimagined Jethro Tull compositions as classical pieces. Per Rolling Stone, the track appeared under the title “Only the Giving (Wond’ring Aloud).”

Anderson had previously identified “Wond’ring Aloud” as one of the songs that was especially important to him because it featured a string quartet. The new arrangement allowed him to revisit that part of the song’s musical identity.

The song’s history is therefore closely tied to both sides of Jethro Tull: the band’s progressive rock sound and Anderson’s quieter songwriting.

Related: 1976 Rock Song, Ranked Among ‘Greatest Songs of All Time,’ Was Created in a Watertown Basement Studio

Country-blues star Elle King has never been shy about her life, whether it’s behind-the-scenes glimpses into her music or her tumultuous relationship with her father, comedian Rob Schneider.

Now, she is opening up her private life even more, sharing on Facebook a surprising diagnosis fans likely didn’t see coming. Her viral 2024 Grand Ole Opry performance was among King’s more public struggles, and, by her own admission, not one of her proudest moments.

Related: Lil Wayne Opens Up About Why He Decided to Become a Father at Age 14

But it’s not those struggles she revealed publicly on Facebook—it was a lifelong neurodevelopmental disorder:

“Good news is, I’m autistic.”, she shared on May 24.

King was a contestant on a reality show competition Nation’s Dumbest, where she put her smarts to the test.

But it wasn’t until filming concluded that she was diagnosed with autism. She elaborated to US Weekly, “I’m extremely competitive, and I love puzzles and everything,” and added, “I actually found out right after the show that I’m autistic, and so I was like, ‘Everything makes so much sense now.’ But I didn’t even know.”

Related: 2000s Comedy Star, Known for Signature Catchphrase, Rushed to Hospital for Serious Illness

She may be famous for “Ex’s & Oh’s” but the pieces of her own puzzle have just recently come together for the Grammy-nominated musician.

Now that she knows she’s autistic, she’s taking a newfound approach to life, admitting, “With my autism diagnosis, I am putting new kinds of safety barricades,” and stating, “I just want to be around people that I feel safe around, and I just want to do things that bring me joy.”

King has one final show slated for 2026—a headlining performance at Banana Festival in Fulton, Kentucky on September 19.

Legendary musician Michael Feinstein is known for his decades as a music revivalist, preserving classic American music and becoming one of the premier interpreters of American standards. Today, he turns 70.

Born on Sept. 7, 1956 in Columbus, Ohio, Feinstein found an interest in music at a very young age and he started playing piano by ear at just five years old. After graduating from high school, he worked in local piano bars before moving to Los Angeles to pursue his music career further.

In 1977,  the widow of iconic concert pianist-actor Oscar Levant introduced him to lyricist Ira Gershwin, and Feinstein became Gershwin’s assistant for six years. This gave him unprecedented access to numerous unpublished Gershwin songs, many of which he has since performed and recorded.

Almost a decade later, Feinstein became a recording artist, releasing his debut album, Pure Gershwin, in 1985. The record, which was rereleased by Elektra/Asylum Records in April 1987, features Feinstein taking on the vocals and piano of classic Gershwin songs including “‘S Wonderful,” “Our Love Is Here To Stay,” and “Embraceable You.”

While he has written and recorded his own original music — he composed and scored the music for the 1999 comedy documentary Get Bruce — Feinstein has a dedication to preserving, interpreting, and performing the American classics.

2007 saw Feinstein found the Great American Songbook Foundation, which has earned him the nickname Ambassador of the Great American Songbook. The foundation is dedicated to celebrating the art form and preserving it through educational programs, Master Classes, and the annual Songbook Academy.

The musician has been nominated for five Grammy Awards and has performed in some of the most iconic venues across the globe, from Buckingham Palace to the Sydney Opera House.

Feinstein’s latest album, Gershwin Country, was released in March 2022. Executive produced by Liza Minnelli, the record features duets with beloved country music artists such as Dolly Parton, Brad Paisley, and Lyle Lovett.

Related: ’90s Singer From Ohio, Whose Runaway Single ‘I Try’ Shot Her to Stardom, Turns 59

In the 1970s, Ellen Burstyn seemed to be everywhere. She earned her first Academy Award nomination for The Last Picture Show in 1971, then her second two years later for the horror classic The Exorcist. In 1975, she won the Best Actress Oscar for Martin Scorsese‘s Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore. Burstyn, now 93, never imagined that more than five decades later, she’d not only still be acting, but leading two films at once.

“I never pictured myself still making movies at 93,” she told People, admitting she was already surprised to be landing lead roles in her 40s — let alone still working at this level in her 90s.

“I know it’s rare in the business and it’s a surprise to me,” she added, “but at the same time, it feels perfectly natural because that’s what I’ve done all of my life.”

Along with her Oscar, Burstyn won the Best Actress Tony Award for Same Time, Next Year in 1975, and in 2009 she took home a Primetime Emmy for Law & Order: Special Victims Unit — putting her in acting’s exclusive Triple Crown of Acting club, which consists of 24 actors. She also holds a Golden Globe and a BAFTA.

The Requiem for a Dream star is currently at the 83rd Venice Film Festival, where two of her films are screening: Maggie Gyllenhaal‘s short Flesh Impact, in which Burstyn plays an imagined 100-year-old Marilyn Monroe, and Place to Be, Kornél Mundruczó‘s drama costarring Taika Waititi. But she’s in Venice most of all to receive the festival’s Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement, presented September 7.

Accepting the honor, Burstyn told the crowd it meant more to her than any of her previous accolades. “You can’t imagine how meaningful this is to me,” she said. “It’s one thing to win an Oscar, a Tony or an Emmy, all of which I’ve won. But this … it’s a lot.”

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She also reflected on what the honor represents after a career spanning more than 70 years and roughly 150 films. Rather than simply a tally of accomplishments, she said, she’s come to see it as a record of everything she’s learned along the way — proof, in her words, that she “did learn the things that I was supposed to learn along the way so that I could keep working.”

A recall has been issued for a pork product distributed to eight states, including the country’s most populous, after it was flagged as possibly being contaminated by Listeria. 

Related: Recall Issued for Grill Brushes Sold at Walmart, Amazon, TJ Maxx, Ross Due to Serious Ingestion Hazard

According to a recall notice published on September 6 by the Food Safety and Inspection Service, a branch of the United States Department of Agriculture, 1,513 pounds of imported ready-to-eat pork products were recalled by Prime Line Distributors, Inc. out of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and by Ferrarini USA, Inc. out of Hoboken, New Jersey. 

The imported guanciale, or dry-cured pork jowl, was produced at Est. 1937L Bome SRL in Italy on May 21, 2026, was imported into the U.S. on various dates within July 2026, and “may be adulterated with Listeria monocytogenes,” notes the recall. It also specifies that “The Prime Line Distributors, Inc., items were shipped to food service and retail locations in Florida. The Ferrarini USA, Inc. items were shipped to distributors and food service locations in California, Florida, Idaho, Illinois, Michigan, New Jersey, New York and Texas.”

Related: Recall Issued for Olive Oil Due to Ingredient ‘Not Approved for Culinary Use’

The recalled products can be identified by the following markers:

Prime Line Distributors, Inc.:    

• Various weight cardboard cases containing two pieces of individually vacuumed packed “PRIME LINE DISTRIBUTORS, INC. GUANCIALE PORK JOWL PRODUCT OF ITALY” with “LOT: 263311US” and “BEST IF USE BY DATE: 05.16.27” printed on the label.
• Various weight individually vacuumed packaged “GUANCIALE PORK JOWL PRODUCT OF ITALY” with “LOT: 263311US” and “BEST IF USE BY: 05.16.27” printed on the label. The product has an additional label with “DOK GUANCIALE” on the packaging.

Ferrarini USA, Inc.:

• Various weight cardboard cases containing two pieces of individually vacuumed packed “GUANCIALE PORK JOWL PRODUCT OF ITALY” with “LOT: 263311US” and “BEST IF USE BY DATE: 05.16.27” printed on the label.
• Various weight individually vacuumed packaged “FERRARINI GUANCIALE DRY-CURED PORK JOWL” with “LOT: 263311US” and “BEST IF USE BY DATE: 05.16.27” printed on the label. 

Related: Recall Issued for Candy Sold at Marshalls, TJ Maxx, Homegoods

Listeria infection can cause different symptoms depending on where in the body it happens. If it happens in the gut, symptoms can include upset stomach, diarrhea, and vomiting. If it occurs in the blood, it can cause flu-like symptoms including upset stomach, headaches, muscle aches, fatigue, fever, and chills, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Next: Recall Issued for Berries Sold at Walmart Due to E. Coli Risk

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There’s no denying that I’m a maximalist. My love for quirky trinkets, unique decor pieces, and sentimental keepsakes runs deep, and I often find myself running out of storage space for these treasured items. As much as I love my curated collections, I can’t stand the clutter they create, so I’m always on the hunt for new organization solutions. I’ve found that the best options are those that effortlessly blend style and practicality, tidying up my space while elevating it. 

If you’re anything like me and need a chic storage solution to streamline your home, this Sincido Narrow Arched Bookcase is definitely worth checking out at Walmart. Right now, you can score it on sale for up to a whopping 50% off! Normally retailing for $200, this bookcase is now marked down to $100 in dark gray and $116 in natural oak. 

Sincido Narrow Arched Bookcase, From $100 (was $200) at Walmart

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Coming in at just 10.5 inches wide and 13.8 inches deep, this slim bookcase is a must-have for small spaces. This piece measures 67.4 inches tall, taking advantage of vertical space to maximize storage in your home. 

If you prefer something larger and have the space for it, you can also get this bookcase in two large sizes. It comes in a 17-inch-wide version in natural oak, and a 29.5-inch-wide style in natural oak and white. Prices for those range between $118 and $150. 

Featuring eight open shelves, this bookcase offers tons of storage space for all your prized possessions. The lower seven tiers have a 7.3-inch vertical clearance, and the top shelf has a 7.1-inch vertical clearance. Three of the shelves have an adjustable design, allowing you to position them at different heights to fit items of various sizes. 

Chic and simple, this bookcase has clean lines and a domed top, giving it an arched silhouette and a modern look. It boasts an exposed woodgrain finish, lending itself to the farmhouse aesthetic as well. The wood grain pattern adds rustic charm with a raw and natural feel. 

Sincido Narrow Arched Bookcase, From $100 (was $200) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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With its versatile design, this bookcase will complement any room you place it in. It’ll instantly spruce up your space and make it feel cozy and inviting. You can put this bookcase in your living room to display your extensive book collection, plant babies, curated decor pieces, and more. Alternatively, you could keep it in your bathroom, bedroom, or kitchen to store anything from linens to beauty products.

“This cabinet is gorgeous!” one reviewer raved. “I’m using it in my kitchen for my rooster collection, and it’s the perfect size to sit between my windows.” A second shopper said that it “added instant elegance” to their dining room. 

This bookcase is made of engineered wood, and shoppers noted that it feels solid and sturdy. Many of them also mentioned that it was easy to assemble. The bottom of the bookcase is fitted with foot pads, keeping your floors free of scuffs and scratches. Ensuring that it remains steadily in place, this bookcase comes with an anti-tip kit to prevent it from toppling over. 

Shop More Deals 

• Yocwo Arched Bookcase With Wave Panels, $162 (was $330) at Walmart
• Yocwo Arched Bookcase With Fluted Drawer, From $181 (was $300) at Walmart
• Homfa Bookcase with Rolling Storage Cart, $80 (was $210) at Walmart

Related: Walmart Is Selling a ‘Beautiful’ Rustic 5-Tier Bookcase With a Built-In Farmhouse Cabinet for Nearly 30% Off

If you’re looking for something stylish enough to show off your most cherished collections, be sure to head to Walmart and snag the Sincido Narrow Arched Bookcase while it’s on sale for as low as $100! 

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.

By 1977, Rush had already proven it wasn’t afraid of long songs. With “Cygnus X-1,” the Toronto trio went one step further, creating an epic so expansive that it couldn’t be contained on a single album.

The science-fiction saga began with the roughly 10-minute “Cygnus X-1 Book I: The Voyage” on 1977’s A Farewell to Kings and continued with the more than 18-minute “Cygnus X-1 Book II: Hemispheres” the following year. Together, the two pieces run for nearly half an hour and capture Rush at one of the most ambitious points of its progressive-rock era.

The story begins far from Earth.

Written by Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson, and Neil Peart, “The Voyage” follows a space traveler aboard the Rocinante as he approaches Cygnus X-1, a real X-ray source that was believed to contain a black hole. Drawn closer by its gravity, the explorer ultimately disappears into it as the song reaches its dramatic conclusion.

Rush created the recording far from its Toronto home.

A Farewell to Kings marked the band’s first time recording outside Canada, with Rush traveling to Rockfield Studios in Wales. The rural setting allowed the musicians to expand their sound, with synthesizers, unusual percussion, and increasingly intricate arrangements becoming more prominent alongside Lee’s bass and Lifeson’s guitar.

“Recording my bass on A Farewell To Kings was not as challenging as playing those same parts live,” Lee told Guitar World. “‘Cygnus X-I,’ for example, was big fun to record, but onstage Neil and I had to be feeling all the stops and starts in exactly the same time frame. Singing and playing those parts is always more challenging than simply playing the instrument bits, regardless of their complexity, because when I’m not singing, I can devote my full attention to playing them correctly.”

“Cygnus X-1” didn’t end with the album.

Rush picked up the story on 1978’s Hemispheres, opening the record with “Book II.” This time, the traveler emerges into a world divided between Apollo, representing reason, and Dionysus, representing emotion. The conflict eventually leads to a realization that neither can exist successfully without the other.

At more than 18 minutes, “Hemispheres” occupied the entire first side of the original LP.

“As we started writing, it became apparent that this was going to be a concept album, and then it became even more apparent that the musical attitude was going to be quite complex,” Lee told Rolling Stone. “That was our mistake: It wasn’t that we were bereft of ideas — it’s that the ideas we did have were much more ambitious than we gave credit to.”

The two-part “Cygnus X-1” saga arrived during a remarkable stretch of experimentation for Rush. The band had already devoted an entire side of 1976’s 2112 to its title suite and would continue exploring longer compositions before moving toward tighter songs with albums including Permanent Waves and Moving Pictures.

“I related [‘Cygnus X-1 Book II: Hemispheres’] more with what we attempted to do with Caress of Steel — that kind of ambiance,” Lee explained. “They were all sort of mini rock operas, but ‘2112’ stands as a rock opera that’s much more rock to me. But this to me was a bit naive at times, and the dynamics were very extreme. And this was an attempt to do a more cohesive version of that. By the end, we felt we were falling into a pattern with these things. The albums after that were in rebellion to what we’d achieved with ‘Hemispheres.'”

Nearly five decades later, “Cygnus X-1” remains a towering example of Rush’s progressive ambitions. Rather than squeezing its story into conventional limits, the Toronto band let it unfold across two years, two albums, and more than 28 minutes of music.

Related: 1970 Rock Song, Written by Paul McCartney, Is Still a Powerful Hit 56 Years Later

Led Zeppelin released their first U.S. single in 1969, with a B-side track that gained just as much popularity among fans and would become one of Jimmy Page‘s most famous guitar moments.

“Communication Breakdown” has often been tagged as one of the rock band’s most influential hits that defined their overall sound. It was released early in their career, as the band had just finished their first tour in Scandinavia. They had been playing a new track titled “Too Good,” and by the time they returned to the studio, it was renamed “Communication Breakdown,” and the “New Yardbirds” would be known as Led Zeppelin.

Page would be key to having developed the hit track, despite it never having entered the Billboard Hot 100 chart. This was mainly due to the song never being released as a commercial single.

The band had come together thanks to Page after having left the Yardbirds, with Robert Plant having remembered their self-titled debut album “had so much weight, so much power” behind it.

“Communication Breakdown” was a major reason why, with the band having developed the track around Page’s guitar riff. The guitarist was actually inspired by Eddie Cochran‘s track “Nervous Breakdown” and created the distinctive feature of using downstrokes only. Page even used distance mic-ing to get the “guitar in a shoebox” sound.

“I put [the amp] in a small room, a tiny vocal booth-type thing and miked it from a distance,” Page said, according to MusicRadar. “You see, there’s a very old recording maxim which goes, ‘Distance makes depth’. I’ve used that a hell of a lot on recording techniques with the band generally, not just me.”

“You’re always used to them close-miking amps, just putting the microphone in front, but I’d have a mic right out the back, as well, and then balance the two, to get rid of all the phasing problems; because really, you shouldn’t have to use an EQ in the studio if the instruments sound right. It should all be done with the microphones.”

Reports claim that Page’s guitar riff was what inspired Ramones’ guitarist Johnny Ramone‘s downstroke guitar style. He once commented that he developed the skill having practiced the track over and over.

“Communication Breakdown” was a concert staple for Led Zeppelin until 1970. In later years, the band would play it once during every tour until 1980. The band decided to split after the death of drummer John Bonham.

Related: 1969 Rock Song, Written by Mick Jagger, Is Still an Unforgettable Hit 57 Years Later

King Charles just broke his silence regarding Prince Harry and Megan Markle‘s return to the United Kingdom, and he’s laying some serious ground rules.

A letter sent on behalf of King Charles that was obtained by the BBC notes that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex will not be working royals carrying out official engagements now that they have returned to the UK.

They will still not be able to use the “HRH” titles of His and Her Royal Highness, and are “private citizens with commercial and charitable interests,” the letter sent on behalf of the King by the Lord Chamberlain, a top Palace official, says. They also noted that the letter was sent to Prince Harry’s team, the government, the military, and Lord Lieutenants, according to Palace sources.

“It is well known that in January 2020 the Duke and Duchess stepped down from undertaking representative duties on behalf of the Sovereign, and are no longer working Members of the Royal Family,” the letter says.

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When Did Meghan and Harry Announce They Were Leaving the United States?

Last month, PEOPLE reported that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex were relocating to the United Kingdom with Prince Archie, 7, and Princess Lilibet, 5, for an extended period. The children were set to begin school there in September. The couple will maintain their home in Montecito, California, and their vacation property in Portugal. However, they will make Britain their private, non-royal home base.

Page Six is reporting that the duo chose to return to the United Kingdom in an attempt to be closer to Charles as he navigates cancer. They are also hoping to help their children build relationships with family. The family had a mini-reunion in July, when Charles invited them to his country home of Highgrove. It was the first time he saw Archie and Lilibet in four years. Queen Camilla was also in attendance.

Related: Martha Stewart Is Throwing Shade at Meghan Markle’s Cooking Show

A banjo wasn’t the most obvious instrument to build an early-’70s pop hit around, but The Stampeders made it the unmistakable hook of their biggest song.

The Canadian trio released “Sweet City Woman” in 1971, pairing its distinctive banjo with sunny harmonies and an easygoing rock groove. Written by guitarist and lead singer Rich Dodson, the song became an international breakthrough for the band and later crossed into country music through a successful cover by Johnny Carver.

The Stampeders had already undergone a major transformation by then.

Originally formed in Calgary as the Rebounds, the group changed its name to the Stampeders and eventually relocated to Toronto. Its lineup was pared down to the trio of Dodson, bassist Ronnie King, and drummer Kim Berly, who developed a sound that drew from rock, country, and pop.

“Sweet City Woman” brought those influences together.

Dodson wrote the song and played its memorable banjo part, an unusual touch that immediately separated the recording from much of what was on pop radio. The lyrics celebrate returning to a woman in the city, while the buoyant arrangement gives the song the relaxed quality that became central to its appeal.

“So we’re recording Sweet City Woman in the studio, and he was doing it on guitar, the riff,” King told the Calgary Homestretch. “So the manager said, ‘Why don’t you do that riff on the banjo?’ Because there’s a line in the song that says ‘my banjo and me we got a feel for singing,'” King said. “And Richard says, ‘I don’t know banjo, it’s a different tuning.’ And I said, ‘tune it like a guitar.'”

Dodson took King’s advice.

“I was trying to write something like ‘Montego Bay,'” Dodson told Classic Bands. “Everybody liked that particular tune, but there was no relationship between the two. I started off with ‘A’, blend it with ‘B’ and you end up with ‘C.’ It’s just a neat little lick that came. It just all started to fall into place, jamming’ with it. And we do it live and people request it. It’s just magic…a lot of hooks.”

The results were a hit.

Released on the album Against the Grain, “Sweet City Woman” quickly took off in the Stampeders’ home country.

The song reached No. 1 in Canada and then crossed the border, climbing to No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States. Its success also helped the Stampeders earn several honors at the 1972 Juno Awards, including recognition for the single and the group.

“All of a sudden the phone rang and we got gigs,” Dodson recalled. “We could make a living and tour around, draw people, start filling theaters. It was wonderful.”

The song soon proved that its country undercurrent could be pushed even further.

Johnny Carver recorded “Sweet City Woman” in 1977, transforming the Canadian pop-rock favorite into a country hit. His version reached No. 48 on Billboard’s Hot Country Singles chart, giving Dodson’s composition another successful life in a different genre.

The Stampeders continued recording and scored additional Canadian hits, including “Carry Me” and “Hit the Road Jack,” the latter featuring Wolfman Jack. None, however, matched the international impact of their 1971 breakthrough.

“We record ‘Sweet City Woman,’ we brought the banjo back,” King said. “‘Sweet City Woman’ becomes a hit. Now here’s our salesman buddy selling every banjo: ‘This is the banjo that played ‘Sweet City Woman’ — here you go, buddy.’ And nobody knows where the real one went to.”

Fifty-five years later, “Sweet City Woman” remains instantly recognizable from its opening banjo notes. What might have seemed like an unlikely ingredient for a pop smash instead helped give the Stampeders a sound, and a hit, that has endured for generations.

Related: 1970 Rock Song, Written by Paul McCartney, Is Still a Powerful Hit 56 Years Later

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DIY home security gives homeowners more control over equipment, installation and cost. But setting up a system correctly involves more than sticking sensors to doors and mounting a few cameras. Poor placement can create gaps in coverage. Weak Wi-Fi may affect camera performance, while overlooked security settings can create unnecessary cybersecurity risks.

ADT now offers both self-setup and professionally installed systems, so homeowners can choose how much of the installation they want to handle themselves. But before installing a DIY security system, you’ll need to watch for these seven common mistakes that reduce coverage or reliability.

If you’re unsure where sensors, cameras or other devices should go, ADT offers a free in-home consultation where a Solutions Advisor can recommend equipment based on your home’s layout and security needs.

What Are the Most Common DIY Home Security Mistakes?

The most common DIY security mistakes involve sensor placement, network connectivity, account security and incomplete coverage. Unfortunately, a system may appear to be working normally even though a sensor is misaligned or a camera isn’t receiving a reliable connection. Let’s take a closer look at each.

DIY Security Mistake

Why It Matters

Poor motion sensor placement

Can reduce useful coverage or contribute to unnecessary alerts

Misaligned door/window sensors

May prevent reliable open-and-close detection

Weak Wi-Fi around cameras

Can interrupt video and connected features

Leaving default router credentials

Makes the home network less secure

Skipping updates or MFA

Leaves connected accounts and devices more vulnerable

Missing secondary entry points

Creates gaps in security coverage

Failing to test the system

Installation problems can go unnoticed

1. Installing Motion Sensors in the Wrong Place

Motion sensors depend on placement. Mounting one where furniture blocks part of its field of view reduces the area it monitors. Locations with frequent movement from pets may also require more careful setup, depending on the sensor.

Before permanently mounting a sensor, review the manufacturer’s placement instructions and test the area it will cover. That extra few minutes during installation is easier than discovering later that an important area wasn’t being monitored as expected.

2. Misaligning Door and Window Sensors

Door and window contacts typically consist of two pieces that must line up when the opening is closed. ADT’s current door and window sensor instructions specify that the sensor and magnet should be no more than ½ inch apart. The alignment marks should also face one another and sit at approximately the same height.

A large gap or poor alignment can interfere with reliable detection.

After mounting each sensor, open and close the door or window several times and confirm that the system correctly reports its status.

3. Mounting Security Cameras Where Wi-Fi Is Weak

A camera’s view isn’t the only thing worth checking before you drill holes into siding or attach a mount. You’ll also need to check the Wi-Fi connection from that location.

Most connected security cameras depend on the home network for features such as live video, recordings and remote access. Exterior walls, distance from the router and other obstacles can weaken the signal.

Moving a camera, even a relatively short distance, may improve connectivity while preserving the view you need.

If you’re concerned about getting sensor and camera placement right, ADT also offers professional installation. A technician can handle equipment setup and testing rather than leaving the entire installation to the homeowner.

4. Leaving Default Router Passwords in Place

A DIY security system isn’t just physical hardware. Cameras and other connected devices also depend on the security of your home network.

The Federal Trade Commission recommends changing default administrative usernames and passwords on home routers and connected devices. They also suggest using unique passwords rather than reusing credentials from other websites or accounts.

For the home router itself, the agency recommends WPA3 or WPA2 encryption and changing both the Wi-Fi password and router administrator password from their defaults.

5. Skipping Two-Factor Authentication and Software Updates

Connected security devices need routine digital maintenance.

The FTC recommends enabling two-factor authentication for security-camera accounts when the feature is available. Two-factor authentication requires another form of verification in addition to the password.

CISA also recommends multi-factor authentication and prompt software updates as basic cybersecurity practices. Updates matter because manufacturers use them to fix security flaws and other problems discovered after a product is released.

Enable automatic updates when supported and keep the mobile app used to manage the security system current as well.

6. Protecting the Front Door but Ignoring Other Entry Points

A starter package may not provide enough sensors for every house.

ADT recommends its door/window sensors for vulnerable entry points such as exterior doors and basement windows. Before ordering equipment, walk around the home and identify accessible openings.

A side door that receives little attention or a door connecting an attached garage to the living space may deserve the same consideration as the front entrance. The same applies to accessible windows that aren’t visible from the street.

7. Installing the System Without Testing Everything

Finishing the installation isn’t the final step.

Test every sensor from its permanent location. Open protected doors and windows, walk through motion-sensor coverage areas and check camera video after mounting the devices. Then, review notifications in the system’s app to confirm that each device is reporting correctly.

Testing also gives you a chance to find weak batteries, poor Wi-Fi connections or equipment that needs repositioning before you rely on the system. ADT’s support guidance includes testing procedures for its self-setup sensors and advises using the appropriate test mode when servicing equipment to avoid unnecessary alarms.

Key Takeaways

A DIY security system works best when every part of it has been installed and verified rather than simply connected. Taking the extra time to verify sensor alignment, secure your Wi-Fi network and test every device guarantees your coverage is dependable from day one.

If you’d rather have professional help designing or installing your home security system, ADT offers free in-home consultations along with professionally installed security options.

In recent years, a few of the Radiohead bandmates have performed as The Smile, a sort of spinoff rock band with a slightly different sound. But rest assured, the original outfit behind Kid A and OK Computer is still very much a thing.

In fact, Radiohead just announced a whole spread of new concerts coming up next year. The only kicker is, all 21 shows will be played overseas.

“Radiohead will play a run of 21 shows next year in Perth, Melbourne and Sydney, Australia, and Saitama, Japan,” reads the caption of the band’s Instagram post on Monday, September 7. “Registration open now via radiohead.com.”

The caption continues to list out the specific dates and venues:

“May 3, 4, 6, 7 – RAC Arena, Perth
May 13, 14, 16, 17, 19, 20 – Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne
May 25, 26, 28, 29, 31, June 1 – Afterpay Arena, Sydney
June 8, 9, 11, 12, 13 – GMO Arena Saitama”

View this post on Instagram

Of course, Radiohead has its devoted fanbase, which means Instagram users didn’t hold back in the post’s comments section to voice reservations about how the band is only visiting two countries. “Hey Radiohead ever heard of a place called the US ?” wrote one user, while another person commented, “Hey @radiohead you ever heard of New Zealand? It’s a bit like Australia but good!”

Rolling Stone reports that the band last performed in Australia in 2012, and last headlined Japan in October 2008, on the In Rainbows tour (They also performed there at the Summer Sonic Festival in 2016).

Fellow Artists Continue to Cover Radiohead

Earlier this summer, Vera Blue’s stripped-down cover of Radiohead’s “Creep” for triple j’s Like A Version left listeners emotionally floored, with fans across social media describing the performance as one of the most moving covers they’ve ever heard.

The Australian singer-songwriter pared the 1992 alt-rock staple down to just guitar, piano and vocals, building from a quiet, restrained opening into a soaring falsetto by the final chorus. Find out more here.

Now a beloved franchise with multiple TV shows, movies, and spinoffs, fans might be surprised to know that the original The Addams Family sitcom that aired in the 1960s was canceled after just two seasons.

The series premiered on September 18, 1964, on ABC, and starred John Astin as Gomez Addams, Carolyn Jones as Morticia Addams, and Jackie Coogan as Uncle Fester. The show ran for 64 episodes, airing its final episode on April 8, 1966.

Related: 1965 Fantasy Sitcom Lasted Just 5 Seasons but Became a TV Staple for Generations

At the time, it registered small Nielsen ratings and built a repeat audience, but it was not enough to keep the series on the air. However, thanks to syndication, The Addams Family developed a cult following.

Reruns of the 30-minute episodes aired worldwide. In 2011, it was picked up by Boomerang and aired there until 2013. Since 2021, the show has also aired on MeTV. The opening theme has also remained an iconic piece of pop culture.

Today, The Addams Family fans continue to gush about the show on social media platforms.

this scene in the halloween episode from the addams family sitcom 😭 pic.twitter.com/lz1VIACd6u

— luz (@vnbvrnt) August 11, 2025

“One of the many things I love about it is that it’s one of the very few family sitcoms of the time that wasn’t just ‘I hate my wife (laugh track),'”one person wrote on Reddit. Another added, “Genuinely a timeless piece of media, I’m currently watching it from start to finish and I don’t [think] I’ve laughed harder at a TV show in years.”

A third chimed in, “They loved each other; they loved their kids. A family who supported each other was unheard of. They supported everyone who set foot in their house.”

On Rotten Tomatoes, The Addams Family currently has a 94 percent rating and has often been compared to the CBS sitcom, The Munsters, which also aired for two seasons in the 1960s.

Jenna Ortega, who plays Wednesday Addams in the Netflix spinoff Wednesday, credited the original Wednesday from the sitcom, Lisa Loring, for inspiring her portrayal.

“Siouxsie Sioux, Bob Fosse’s Rich Man’s Frug, Lisa Loring, Lene Lovich, Denis Lavant, and archival footage of goths dancing in clubs in the ’80’s. Helped me out on this one,” she tweeted.

Reruns for the win!

It’s officially spooky season at Universal Studios, which means Halloween Horror Nights is in full swing.

However, theme parkgoers are sharing a new update on social media about what you can and can’t bring into Universal Studios Hollywood. In particular, a new restriction on outside water bottles.

“For those coming to Universal Halloween Horror Nights Hollywood, you can’t bring in sealed bottled water after 4 p.m.,” one fan tweeted on September 5, 2026. As expected, the update has some guests divided.

“Interesting since Orlando allows a sealed bottle per person… now if it’s opened then you’re out of luck,” one person commented before another added, “Sucks for people wanting to bring in water and snacks to see a movie.”

For those that coming to Universal Halloween Horror Nights Hollywood, you can’t bring in sealed bottled water after 4pm 🎃👻❌🥤 pic.twitter.com/eTu53nPJbV

— Attractions 360° (@SoCal360) September 6, 2026

In 2024, in a blog shared by Universal, guests were encouraged to bring a water bottle to the park. “Plan on packing a small water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the night at HHN, as well as a portable charger and a poncho or small umbrella,” the post read.

However, guests are still able to bring in an empty refillable water bottle, and you can fill it once you are inside the park.

So, what else should parkgoers keep in mind before going to HHN? The theme park shared updated costume guidelines for Premium Scream Night event nights, prohibiting guests from wearing costumes that fully cover their face, costumes that create a false impression that guests work for Universal or emergency personnel, or any prosthetic makeup. Costumes also may not interfere with the security screening.

Halloween Horror Nights runs from August 28 to November 1, 2026. The event is currently in its 35th year and features 10 haunted houses, including one inspired by the movie Sinners and another in honor of late rocker Ozzy Osbourne.

For a seamless entry, it’s better to leave your sealed water bottles at home.

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A great everyday bag doesn’t have to come with a high price tag. If you’re in the market for a compact, affordable carryall for school runs, quick errands, or your next getaway, Walmart shoppers are loving the Suncoda Sling Bag for its mix of function and style.

Even better, it’s currently on sale for as low as $2, making it an easy add to your cart. Despite its small size, the bag has just enough room for essentials like your phone, wallet, and keys. Plus, it has a comfortable crossbody strap that keeps everything within reach. With 17 colors to choose from, it’s easy to find one that fits your style — or grab a couple while the price is this low.

Suncoda Sling Bag, From $2 at Walmart 

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Made from durable, water-resistant polyester, this unisex bag is built for everyday use. It works just as well for running errands as it does for travel, thanks to its lightweight feel and practical design. The adjustable strap extends from 14 to 36 inches, allowing for a comfortable fit across a range of body types, and it can be worn multiple ways — including as a crossbody, shoulder bag, or backpack.

Inside, multiple compartments keep essentials like your phone, wallet, and keys neatly stored and within reach when you’re on the go. The bag is also compact, measuring just under 12 inches, which makes it a practical choice for family outings, day trips, hiking, or anytime you want to travel light.

“I love this little bag. It’s perfect when I just want to bring a couple things with me,” one reviewer wrote.

Many Walmart shoppers highlight how convenient and functional it is in everyday use. One reviewer shared, “I’m in a wheelchair, so I have trouble carrying a bag. This one fits comfortably over my shoulder. Another added, “If you’re looking for a cute bag at an extremely low price, this is your bag!”

Related: Walmart’s Ribbed Tunic Top Is an Elevated Take on a Fall Layering Staple for Under $15

Whether you’re looking for an easy everyday carryall or just want a simple way to keep your essentials organized, the Suncoda Sling Bag is a great pick. With prices starting at just $2, you’ll want to scoop one up at Walmart in your favorite color before it runs out of stock. 

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The late Shelley Fabares was better known for her iconic sitcom roles in the late 50s and 60s, but die-hard fans would know she made her debut as a singer with a 1962 pop song that went No.1.

“Johnny Angel” was a song written and composed by Lyn Duddy and Lee Pockriss, and was first recorded by Laurie Loman and Georgie Lee. Sadly, both their versions failed to gain any attention. It wasn’t until Fabares recorded it that it became a chart sensation.

The 17-year-old actor at the time had gained popularity as the character Mary Stone in The Donna Reed Show, and her character’s storyline was taking a turn. Fabare’s character needed the perfect song, as Mary decided not to pursue college and instead become a singer in Season 4, Episode 20 of the sitcom.

“Johnny Angel” marked the beginning of Fabares’s singing career as her debut track and landed at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It also went to No. 1 on the Cashbox Top 100 and in New Zealand and Canada.

At the time, Fabares admitted that she and her co-star Paul Peterson thought the song was a great idea for the show. With no real singing background, they both hesitated about whether she could get it done.

“Both Paul and I said it was a great idea, but we couldn’t sing. I was adamant. I’m not a singer. I was a very good, very sweet little girl who was not raised to say no, so it took a lot for me to say I can’t do that,” she said in Fred Bronson’s book The Billboard Book of Number One Hits.

In the book, Fabares was also quoted as having been intimidated by Darlene Love and her group, the Blossoms, singing backup vocals on the track. She thought their voices were “beautiful,” but was wary of what it meant to become a recording artist. “Jonny Angel” became Fabares’s biggest hit that lasted on the charts for 15 weeks.

The track’s lyrics told a story many could relate to: a young girl longing for a boy she has a crush on, but him having no idea who she is. Duddy and Pockriss wrote the track in the former’s apartment during a blackout when they had nothing else to do.

“I had always wanted to write a soliloquy – a song written from the point of view of someone who waited on the corner every night for someone to pass by,” Duddy told Billboard.

Pockriss was the one who changed the track’s name from “Seven-thirty” to a man’s name. He added that he chose Johnny out of “thin air,” and it didn’t actually mean anything or relate to anyone they knew. Interestingly, “Johnny Angel” would be their only songwriting credit together.

The song’s popularity led it to be covered by Patti Lynn that same year, and it was a success on the UK charts. A decade later, in 1973, the Carpenters also released their own cover of the song for their fifth album. Fabares would later release a follow-up titled “Johnny Loves Me” and release a few more albums during the 60s.

Related: 1969 Jazz Rock Song, Written by 17-Year-Old Laura Nyro, Is Still a Powerful Hit 57 Years Later

We often pay attention to how outdoor air can affect our lungs—allergies, smoke and the like. However, as a pulmonologist at Hackensack University Medical Center, Dr. Kevin Kim, DO, says he spends much of his time speaking with patients about what they breathe in their homes.

“We spend the vast majority of our time indoors, meaning our indoor air quality directly impacts our respiratory system,” Dr. Kim tells Parade. “Many everyday household items, like cleaning sprays and scented candles, can invisibly release chemicals or mold into the air.”

There’s a lot of talk right now about how the foods we eat and household products can affect everything from our fertility to cancer risk, which can get scary. But Dr. Kim shares that it’s important to understand how household items affect our lungs. If we don’t, he says we could be accidentally triggering asthma, worsening seasonal allergies, or causing long-term inflammation without even realizing the source of the problem.

“Think of your lungs as a giant, incredibly efficient sponge designed to filter air and exchange gases,” Dr. Kim says. “When you take a breath, air travels down your windpipe and into millions of tiny, balloon-like air sacs called alveolar.”

He explains that oxygen from the air crosses into your bloodstream, fueling your body. You exhale carbon dioxide. “Along the way, your airways also act as a natural defense system, using a layer of mucus and tiny hairs to catch and clear out dust, germs and other irritants,” he says.

But we can do our lungs a solid by avoiding airborne toxins that many of us are unintentionally exposing them to. For this reason, Dr. Kim is begging people to stop using one common household item (or at least clean it correctly).

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The Common Household Item To Stop Using, According to Pulmonologists

Dr. Kim wants people to stop using humidifiers without properly cleaning them.

“Humidifiers add moisture to the air, which can be fantastic for soothing dry airways, preventing nosebleeds and easing cold symptoms during the dry winter months,” he says. “However, if a humidifier isn’t maintained properly, it essentially becomes an efficient delivery system for aerosolized bacteria, mold and other harmful airborne toxins.”

Yikes, right?

“When you breathe in that contaminated mist, the microscopic particles travel deep into your lungs, which can trigger severe inflammation and a host of respiratory illnesses,” Dr. Kim adds.

What Is ‘Humidifier Fever’? (And Other Respiratory Health Risks)

According to Dr. Kim, “humidifier fever” is a non-clinical term for a type of lung inflammation that he says is more accurately described as a humidifier-induced respiratory illness. It’s similar to hypersensitivity pneumonitis.

“It happens when your lungs have an intense inflammatory reaction to breathing in the bacteria or fungi that have grown in a dirty humidifier tank,” he says. “Because it’s an inflammatory response to a contaminated mist, the symptoms usually mimic a sudden flu or a chest infection.” 

Within hours of turning a humidifier on, you might experience:

• Fever
• Chills
• A dry cough
• Shortness of breath
• Chest tightness

Unfortunately, Dr. Kim says humidifiers can also lead to other respiratory issues.

“Aside from ‘humidifier fever,’ running a dirty humidifier can easily trigger asthma attacks and worsen environmental allergies by pumping mold spores and dust mites—which thrive in overly humid environments—into the air you breathe,” he reports.

Related: The Allergy Symptoms Doctors Are Seeing Most Right Now

The Hidden Danger of ‘White Dust’ From Ultrasonic Humidifiers

If you notice “white dust” settling onto furniture when using an ultrasonic humidifier, you’re really looking at aerosolized mineral deposits.

“When you use tap water, the naturally occurring dissolved mineral deposits, such as calcium or magnesium, dry out and these fine mineral particles can be shot into the air along with the water vapor,” Dr. Kim explains. “This is dangerous because these minerals form fine particulate matter (PM2.5) that is small enough to travel deep into your lungs.”

When you inhale these tiny particles, he says they can irritate your lung tissue, trigger asthma or COPD flare-ups and lead to chronic inflammation.

A 2020 study published in Indoor Air showed that using tap water in ultrasonic humidifiers can raise indoor PM2.5 to levels comparable to those in a polluted city.

“This can be prevented by using distilled or demineralized water,” Dr. Kim explains.

How Often Should You Really Clean Your Humidifier?

Clean the humidifier daily. Dr. Kim says “cleaning” means emptying the water, wiping the tank completely dry and refilling it.

“Standing water is a perfect breeding ground for mold and bacteria, and it only takes a couple of days for a slimy biofilm to form inside the water tank,” he tells Parade. “If you don’t clean it frequently, you are risking that your humidifier is spraying germs directly into the air you breathe.”

Dr. Kim adds it’s important to give the entire unit a deep clean weekly.

Related: Here’s How Often You Should Actually Replace Your Shower Curtain, According to Microbiologists

Step-By-Step: How to Properly Clean and Disinfect a Humidifier

You don’t have to ditch your humidifier, but Dr. Kim shares it’s important to clean it regularly for your lung health. Here’s how:

1. Unplug the unit and empty any remaining water from the tank and the base.
2. Take the humidifier completely apart, removing the tank, the filter (if it has one), and any other detachable parts.
3. Fill the tank with a mixture of water and white vinegar (about 1 cup of vinegar to 1 gallon of water) and let it sit for 20 to 30 minutes to break down any mineral scale.
4. Use a soft brush, like an old toothbrush, to gently scrub away any visible residue or slimy buildup in the tank and the base.
5. Rinse all the parts thoroughly with plain tap water until you can no longer smell the vinegar.
6. Let everything air dry completely before putting it back together and refilling it (ideally with distilled water).

When To Replace Your Humidifier Altogether

“As a general rule of thumb, you should replace your humidifier every 3 to 5 years, as the internal motor and parts will naturally start to wear down over time,” Dr. Kim says.

However, there are a few times you should ditch it sooner, such as when:

• You can’t get it clean. If a stubborn white or gray mineral scale won’t come off, no matter how much you scrub with vinegar, it’s time for a new humidifier. “That crusty scale provides a porous surface where bacteria love to hide and multiply,” Dr. Kim reveals.
• There is visible mold or a lingering smell. If you’ve deep-cleaned your tank and it still smells musty, it may be worth ditching it altogether. “Mold has likely infiltrated the internal mechanics or the motor area where you can’t reach it,” Dr. Kim states.
• The plastic is cracked or deeply scratched. Even small cracks can lead to big consequences. “Tiny cracks and scratches in the water tank are practically impossible to clean thoroughly, making them the perfect safe haven for bacterial biofilms to grow,” Dr. Kim says.

Up Next:

Related: Having This in Your Kitchen Can Be a Huge Red Flag for Your Health

Sources:

• Dr. Kevin Kim, DO, a pulmonology specialist with Hackensack University Medical Center
• Particulate matter emitted from ultrasonic humidifiers—Chemical composition and implication to indoor air. Indoor Air.

Julie Andrews just made history for the second year in a row. The icon is now the oldest actress to win a Primetime Emmy, besting her own record from last year’s awards.

Andrews nabbed another win on Sunday, September 6, at the Creative Arts Emmys. The storied actress won the 2026 award for Outstanding Character Voice-Over for her off-screen performance as Lady Whistledown on Netflix’s hit Bridgerton. This is the second year in a row that the 90-year-old actress has won the award for this role. She was also nominated for the Primetime Emmy in this category in 2023, 2022, and 2021. 

Previous wins include a 2005 Outstanding Nonfiction Series Emmy for Broadway: The American Musical and a 1973 award for Outstanding Variety Musical Series (The Julie Andrews Hour).

Andrews rose to fame six decades ago as the title character in the 1964 classic Mary Poppins. The following year (1965) she starred in the now-legendary blockbuster The Sound of Music, solidifying her status as Hollywood royalty. 

English actress and singer Julie Andrews, winner of the award for Best Actress in a Comedy or Musical for her role in ‘Mary Poppins’, at the 22nd Golden Globe Awards, USA, 8th February 1965. (Photo by Archive Photos/Getty Images)

Along with her current Emmy win, Andrews’ career highlights include an Academy Award for Best Actress in a Leading Role in 1965 (Mary Poppins), a Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Motion Picture (Victor/Victoria in 1983), and two Grammy Awards. 

Over her career, Andrews continued to delight fans, appearing in The Princess Diaries (2001), The Princess Diaries 2: The Royal Engagement (2004), and Tooth Fairy (2010). Along with voicing Lady Whistledown on Bridgerton, Andrews has lent her off-screen talents to beloved animated hits such as Shrek 2 (2004), Shrek the Third (2007), and Despicable Me (2010).

Even though Andrews is still winning awards and enchanting fans around the world, she recently told The Hollywood Reporter that she’s taking a step back from on-screen acting: “I think the absolute truth is that I think I’m really past all that now.” 

Andrews continued, explaining, “I’m not completely retired, but it’s a different kind of work that I do these days—books, and I do a lot of recording of podcasts and voiceovers.” She added that while it’s “still lovely to be working on things,” it won’t be on camera. 

Andrews’ career is moving in a different direction, but that doesn’t mean fans have seen the last of the 90-year-old. While she didn’t appear at the 2026 Creative Arts Emmy Awards ceremony (presenter Eric Bauza accepted the award on her behalf), she does have several projects in the works. She recently released ‘Shy’, a children’s book co-written with her daughter, Emma Walton Hamilton, and it is the subject of a new documentary coming to Disney+ in 2027.