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Emmylou Harris’ hit “Boulder to Birmingham” resonated with audiences when it was released in the mid-1970s, emerging from a deeply personal period of grief after the loss of a dear friend.

Having been one of the lead musicians in the country rock genre, Harris originally started as a folk artist before moving to New York City in the 1960s. She soon met one of music’s greatest artists, Gram Parsons, who encouraged her to explore a more country rock sound. It also marked the start of a beloved friendship.

Parsons was well-known for having worked with icons like The Byrds and The Flying Burrito Brothers before embarking on a solo career. That career is what led him to Harris in Washington, D.C., where she had a regular gig at a club. He was looking for a female harmony singer and had an impromptu jam session with her at the club, singing Hank Williams’s “I Saw the Light.”

Sadly, Parsons died in 1973 at the age of 26 from a drug and alcohol overdose.

His death led Harris to pen the track “Boulder to Birmingham” in 1975 about the grief of losing Parsons. The song became one of the only self-written works of her career.

“It’s not like I set out to write a song about Gram, but it was inspired by some of the feelings I had after his death,” she said, according to Colorado Music.

She added that the song “fell out of the sky” and she didn’t “labor over it. Lamenting over the loss of her friend, Harris said: “Gram really bequeathed me an extraordinary life.”

The country track was released as part of her Pieces of the Sky album and co-written by Bill Dandoff. While Dandoff may have been an odd choice as a songwriting partner, the two met in Washington, D.C. before Harris met Parsons. “Boulder to Birmingham” failed to enter the charts, but did the job of evoking deep-rooted emotions and became a signature track.

“That song was very important,” she said to The Guardian. “Words can be so powerful to help you express something you otherwise can’t. And everyone has experienced loss, so even though the song is deeply personal, I can understand how people can relate to it, having lost someone who is very close to them.”

When it comes to the song’s title, it’s also connected to her history with Parsons. She explained that their first gig was in Boulder at the Edison Electric Company. They had gotten fired from that club, having forgotten to “work up beginnings, middles and ends of songs.” They then traveled up the mountains to Nederland.

The popular track became a country staple that was covered by Scott Walker that same year, and the Starland Vocal Band a year later. Dolly Parton also released her cover in 1976, with Joan Baez cutting her version for a live album. Rolling Stone once ranked the track as one of the “Greatest Country Songs of All Time.”

Related: 1977 Rock Hit, Co-Written by Iggy Pop and David Bowie, Ranked Among ‘Greatest Songs of All Time’ 

Nothing beats adding something new to your kitchen. With fall on the horizon, there’s more reason than ever to partake in a little seasonal refresh, and your local Hobby Lobby has just the thing to kick the season off on the right foot: the Scalloped Mini Baker. 

In stores now for just $3.89, this charming little kitchen essential is a must-have in any bakeware collection, perfect for cozy recipes, delightful displays and more. Whether you’re looking to do a complete overhaul of your kitchen or looking for an easy addition that doesn’t break the bank, this affordable find is right up your alley.

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Scalloped Mini Baker, $3.89 at Hobby Lobby

Hobby Lobby

Normally priced at $6.49 but currently sporting a 40 percent discount, Hobby Lobby’s Scalloped Mini Baker features a durable ceramic construction with a small rounded-square body and slightly scalloped edges. Complete with tiny speckles throughout its glossy exterior finish and two little handles for easy transport, it offers plenty of culinary versatility and visual style to boot.

Ideal as a vessel for baking individual-sized portions of your favorite fall recipes, this charming little baker looks just as incredible sitting on your countertop between uses as it does incorporated into a festive holiday tablescape. Whether you’re whipping up tiny apple pies, hearty single-serve casseroles, holiday loaves and more, its 10-ounce volume gives you plenty of room to get creative with how you use it.

Related: Hobby Lobby’s Rustic Accent Table Brings Natural Warmth to Any Room

A Festive Score With Plenty of Uses

Hobby Lobby

If you’re already contemplating picking one up, you’ll be pleased to know that you can choose from Orange or White colorways, giving you even more ways to elevate your seasonal spreads. Measuring 2.06 inches tall, 4.56 inches wide and 4.44 inches deep, it features a classic square shape that looks almost pumpkin-like with its elegant scalloped exterior. Even better, it’s also microwave- and dishwasher-safe, as well as oven-safe up to 350°F. 

Thanks to its charming appearance, you can easily use this baker for more than just baking. Set it up with a festive Halloween display filled with candy, seasonal potpourri or tiny decorative accents.  You can also use it as a serving vessel for dips, sauces and other small bites while entertaining guests. Grab multiple to create a whimsical fall set or rely on one for all your seasonal needs.

Don’t miss your chance to snatch one up while the price is still right. And if you need even more kitchen refresh inspiration, check out Hobby Lobby’s rustic Acacia Wood Bowl and 3-Tiered Stoneware Serving Tray.

Related: Dollar General’s $1 Harvest-Inspired Kitchen Set Is an Easy Start to a Fall Refresh

We finally have our first look at the new Harry Potter! After teasing fans on social media, HBO officially released the first teaser trailer—and it looks incredible. Because filming began in July 2025, we weren’t expecting a premiere until 2027, but the new footage revealed a much earlier release date! Check out the video below and learn more about the new cast of characters stepping into the wizarding world.

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What is Harry Potter about?

Harry Potter is a fantasy series created by J.K. Rowling that follows Harry Potter, a young boy without any parents, living in a cupboard space underneath the stairs of his aunt and uncle’s home. Believing he’ll live a life of great unimportance he is surprised when he receives an invitation to the magical wizarding school of Hogwarts.

Related: Calling All Wizards! I Solemnly Swear That We’ve Got the 100 Best ‘Harry Potter’ Quotes!

What is this Harry Potter series called?

This series is called Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.

Is Harry Potter a movie or a series?

Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone is a television series.

What is the release date for Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone?

We have a date! Originally, we expected Harry Potter to be released sometime in 2027. But a truly special holiday gift is coming sooner: Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone is set to premiere on Christmas: Friday, December 25, 2026 on HBO and HBO Max!

Related: The 20 Most Inspiring, Uplifting Movies on HBO Max

Where can I watch Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone?

Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone will air on HBO and stream on HBO Max.

View this post on Instagram Is there a trailer for Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone?

Yes! HBO dropped its first teaser trailer a few months back and now has dropped a second teaser trailer for Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. Check it out below. Doesn’t Ron (Alastair Stout) just look absolutely adorable? Revelio!

Who’s in the cast of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone? From left to right: Arabella Stanton (Hermione), Dominic McLaughlin (Harry) and Alastair Stout (Ron)

Photo by Lucy North - PA Images on Getty Images

Meet the Students

• Dominic McLaughlin as Harry Potter
• Alastair Stout as Ron Weasley
• Arabella Stanton as Hermione Granger
• Rory Wilmot as Neville Longbottom

• Lox Pratt as Draco Malfoy

Related: Daniel Radcliffe Has One Request from the Press About the New Harry Potter Stars

From left to right: Eire Farrell (Katie Bell), Asha Soetan (Angelina Johnson), Orson Matthews (Oliver Wood), Serrana Su-Ling Bliss (Alicia Spinnet) and Ethan Smith (Lee Jordan) Gryffindor House

• Eire Farrell as Katie Bell
• Asha Soetan as Angelina Johnson
• Orson Matthews as Oliver Wood
• Serrana Su-Ling Bliss as Alicia Spinnet
• Ethan Smith as Lee Jordan

From left to right: India Moon (Hannah Abbott), Jazmyn Lewin (Susan Bones), Cian Eagle-Service (Ernie Macmillan) and James Trevelyan Buckle (Justin Finch-Fletchley) Hufflepuff House

• India Moon as Hannah Abbott
• Jazmyn Lewin as Susan Bones
• Cian Eagle-Service as Ernie Macmillan
• James Trevelyan Buckle as Justin Finch-Fletchley

From left to right: Aaron Zhao (Terry Boot), Eve Walls (Lisa Turpin), Scarlett Archer (Penelope Clearwater) and Anjula Murali (Padma Patil) Ravenclaw House

• Aaron Zhao as Terry Boot
• Eve Walls as Lisa Turpin
• Scarlett Archer as Penelope Clearwater
• Anjula Murali as Padma Patil

Top Row (L to R): Eddison Burch (Miles Bletchley), James Dowell (Lucian Bole), Oliver Croft (Marcus Flint), Dylan Heath (Adrian Pucey) and Henry Medhurst (Peregrine Derrick).
Bottom Row (L to R): Cornelius Brandreth (Terence Higgs), Laila Barwick (Pansy Parkinson) and D’angelou Osei-Kissiedu (Graham Montague) Slytherin House

• Eddison Burch as Miles Bletchley
• James Dowell as Lucian Bole
• Oliver Croft as Marcus Flint
• Dylan Heath as Adrian Pucey
• Henry Medhurst as Peregrine Derrick
• Cornelius Brandreth as Terence Higgs
• Laila Barwick as Pansy Parkinson
• D‘angelou Osei-Kissiedu as Graham Montague

Meet the Staff

• John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore

• Louise Brealey as Madam Rolanda Hooch
• Warwick Davis as Professor Flitwick
• Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid
• Janet McTeer as Professor McGonagall
• Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape
• Paul Whitehouse as Argus Filch
• Brid Brennan as Madam Pomfrey
• Luke Thallon as Professor Quirrell
• Sirine Saba as Professor Sprout

Other Magical Players and Muggles

• Amos Kitson as Dudley Dursley
• Bel Powley as Petunia Dursley
• Daniel Rigby as Vernon Dursley
• Katherine Parkinson as Molly Weasley
• Bertie Carvel as Cornelius Fudge
• Johnny Flynn as Lucius Malfoy
• Anton Lesser as Garrick Ollivander
• Lambert Wilson as Nicholas Flamel
• Gracie Cochrane as Ginny Weasley
• Ruari Spooner as Percy Weasley
• Tristan Harland as Fred Weasley
• Gabriel Harland as George Weasley

Next, Harry Potter Trivia: 50 Fun Facts About the Wizarding World

Dancing With The Stars professional dancer Britt Stewart once said Harry Shum Jr. was one of her dream partners.

On Wednesday, Sept. 2, Shum Jr. was revealed on Good Morning America as one of the cast members for season 35 of the ABC reality competition series. He’s partnered with 2x DWTS champion Jenna Johnson while Stewart is paired up with musician and Hanson frontman Taylor Hanson.

During an appearance on the Joe Vulpis Podcast in December 2025, Stewart shared her goals and ambitions for the upcoming season. The dancer, who became a pro during season 29 in 2020 following several years on the dance troupe, has never made it to the show’s finale, but has made the semifinals twice with Olympic figure skater Johnny Weir and CODA actor Daniel Durant — whom she married last summer

“I want to keep going until 1) — I get into the finale and 2) — I win,” she said at the time, before revealing Shum Jr., actor Simu Liu, and influencer Noah Beck as the top three parters on her wish list.

“I don’t know if he would do it,” Stewart said of Shum Jr. “He actually used to be a dancer, and now he’s just an actor, and I think he would be incredible.”

Shum Jr. — who is a professionally trained dancer — currently stars on ABC’s Grey’s Anatomy. Previously, he starred on Glee from 2009-2015 where he first gained recognition for his dancing and performing abilities.

RELATED: ‘DWTS’ Season 35 Will Feature First Same-Sex Partnership in 4 Years

Here is season 35’s full list of celebrities and their professional dancer partners.

• The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air star Tatyana Ali with partner Jan Ravnik
• TV personality and host Tyler Cameron with partner Sharna Burgess
• Celebrity chef and host Giada De Laurentiis with partner Alan Bersten
• Star of The Rookie Jenna Dewan with partner Val Chmerkovskiy
• Paralympian gold medalist Ezra Frech with partner Daniella Karagach
• Olympian gold medalist Amber Glenn with partner Pasha Pashkov
• From Hanson, Taylor Hanson with partner Britt Stewart
• Reality star and model Maura Higgins with partner Mark Ballas
• From The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives Conner Leavitt with partner AdeleZaikman
• Reality star and host Ciara Miller with partner Brandon Armstrong
• From Love Thy Nader Sarah Jane Nader with partner Hailey Bills
• Savannah Bananas star Jackson Olson with partner Emma Slater
• From Jimmy Kimmel Live Guillermo Rodriguez with partner Witney Carson
• From Grey’s Anatomy Harry Shum Jr. with partner Jenna Johnson
• Film and TV star Julia Stiles with partner Ezra Sosa
• Comedian and podcaster Connor Wood with partner Rylee Arnold

Dancing with the Stars airs returns on Tuesday, Sept. 15. on ABC and Disney+ and streams next day on Hulu.

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Jim Thornton’s attorney is pushing back against speculation surrounding the longtime Wheel of Fortune announcer after Sony Pictures Television Studios suspended him and began recasting his role.

TMZ reported on Tuesday, September 1 that Sony confirmed Thornton’s suspension, saying it had recently learned of allegations involving the announcer, who has been with the game show since 2011. “We have recently been made aware of allegations concerning Jim Thornton. He has been suspended from Wheel of Fortune and we are recasting while we conduct a thorough investigation,” the studio said.

What Did Jim Thornton’s Lawyer Say?

Thornton’s attorney has now issued a statement to TMZ amid speculation, denying that the announcer committed a crime.

Thornton “did not engage in any illegal conduct, was not arrested, and has not been charged with any crime. When questioned about the complaint made by a fellow passenger on the flight, law enforcement spoke to him for five minutes or less, immediately determined that no wrongdoing had occurred and told my client he was free to go.”

What Reportedly Happened on the American Airlines Flight?

According to TMZ, the matter is connected to a May 14 commercial flight. The outlet reported that another passenger complained about Thornton to a flight attendant and that the pilot arranged for law enforcement to meet the plane when it landed at Los Angeles International Airport. American Airlines confirmed that authorities met Flight 1276 after it arrived.

“On May 14, American Airlines Flight 1276 was met by law enforcement upon arrival at Los Angeles International Airport following concerns reported by a customer onboard,” the airline told the outlet.

Thornton was reportedly questioned by officers and then allowed to leave. His attorney has clarified that the interaction lasted five minutes or less.

How Long Has Jim Thornton Been on ‘Wheel of Fortune’? Jim Thornton

(Photo by Carlos Chavez/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)

Thornton took over the announcing job in 2011, stepping in after Charlie O’Donnell, who held the role for decades before his death in 2010.

The Hollywood Reporter reported that Tuesday’s episode, featuring host Ryan Seacrest and Vanna White, still aired with Thornton’s voice, since it had been taped well before the suspension was announced. 

Sony has said it’s moving forward with recasting the role while the investigation plays out, and the company has kept the specifics of the allegations under wraps.

Belinda Carlisle is playing favorites. The Go-Go’s frontwoman wished Bee Gees legend Barry Gibb a happy birthday by giving him the ultimate compliment. Carlisle has been a longtime supporter of Barry Gibb, who turned 80 on Sept. 1.

In a birthday post celebrating Barry Gibb’s birthday, Belinda Carlisle took to social media to share her well wishes, writing:

“Happy Birthday to my absolute favorite songwriter in the world. @officialbarrygibb His music was and still is big part of my life. When he sings, he affects me in a way that María Callas or Karen Carpenter does – it’s something inside the voice, I guess it’s pathos. It moves me in a very deep way. Here’s to another birthday, legend.”

View this post on Instagram

Judging by the comments rolling in in support of the famed singer-songwriter, Barry Gibb’s fan club extends far past Belinda Carlisle.

“You and me both! And the harmonies with Robin and Maurice were unequaled,” gushed one fan.

Another added, “Run to Me is probably the best song ever written and sung by the Bee Gees.”

“Totally!! Just played a few of his songs on the radio here to mark the occasion!” another shared.

Related: 1977 Hit With an Uncredited Joe Walsh Guitar Solo Became an Andy Gibb No. 1 Hit

Belinda Carlisle Has Long Admired Barry Gibb @beegeesofficial

Run to me if you need a shoulder 🎶🫶🏻 #BeeGees #RunToMe #ToWhomItMayConcern

♬ original sound – Bee Gees

Belinda Carlisle may be sharing effusive well wishes for Barry Gibb on his 80th birthday, but her admiration isn’t new. In a 2014 interview, Carlisle was asked about songwriters she’d like to work with and immediately brought up Gibb.

“Oh, god. I don’t know. I love Barry Gibb. He’s an amazing songwriter. It’d be interesting having a song from him,” she said.

Hers is a telling endorsement and demonstrates Barry Gibb’s impact not just on music fans, but on other artists. Liking an artist’s work is one thing. Wanting to work with them is the ultimate form of adulation.

Barry Gibb Never Wrote a Go-Go’s Song

Barry Gibb is not only part of the famed Bee Gees with his brothers Maurice and Robin Gibb, but he’s also responsible for helping his brother Andy Gibb create his own sound.

Though Barry Gibb didn’t write any Go-Go’s songs, Belinda Carlisle has long spoken about Gibb’s talent and songwriting skills.

Carlisle has even performed Bee Gees songs like “How Deep Is Your Love,” with Barry, Robin and Maurice Gibb credited as the writers, in her own live shows.

A Belinda Carlisle and Barry Gibb Collaboration Never Happened

The Belinda Carlisle-Barry Gibb collaboration has yet to materialize, but a collaboration between the woman behind some of the biggest songs of the 1980s and the singer and songwriter behind some of the most iconic songs of the era seems like a gift for all—especially music lovers.

Related: Missing Persons Frontwoman, 71, Still Sounds as Good as She Did in the ’80s at Recent Show

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In 1979, Maxine Nightingale wasn’t sold on the song that would be the follow up to her massive international disco hit, “Right Back Where We Started From” and was against releasing “Lead Me On” as a single at all.

Nightingale had scored a massive No. 2 hit with “Right Back Where We Started From” three years earlier, but her follow-up efforts quickly stalled out. She nearly passed on “Lead Me On” out of fear it would flop since it was such a departure from her first hit. She was wrong.

“Lead Me On” hit the top spot on Billboard’s Adult Contemporary chart three separate times in 1979. In total, the song spent seven weeks at the top and climbed to No. 5 on the Hot 100.

Its legacy has only grown. On Billboard‘s ranking of its Top 100 Adult Contemporary Songs of All Time, “Lead Me On” landed at No. 2, outranked by Savage Garden’s “Truly Madly Deeply.”

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“Lead Me On” was written by Allee Willis and David Lasley. Willis discussed the song’s creation with Songfacts. “I really was in one of those relationships. It wasn’t a bad relationship, but it was one that obviously wasn’t gonna work.”

She continued, “It was someone that couldn’t commit. And I really was a wreck. But I had just started having hits, so at least I was a wreck in a very exciting time in my life.”

“David Lasley was one of the first people I ever collaborated with, and there was a song out at that time that the Bee Gees had written and produced. It was by an artist named Samantha Sang, ‘Emotion.’ So we wanted to write a song that was in kind of that tempo that had that feel, and I don’t remember if it was David or me that just said, ‘Lead me on. You know, tease me all night long. I don’t care, I want to be in this relationship, I’m staying here.’ It was a very mentally unhealthy state to be in.”

Nightingale recorded it for her album Love Lines. Willis sang backup on the track.

Willis would go on to co-write Earth, Wind & Fire‘s “September” and “Boogie Wonderland,” the Pointer Sisters‘ “Neutron Dance,” and the Friends theme song “I’ll Be There for You.” Additionally, Willis said of “Lead Me On,” “That song was written very, very fast. That and ‘Neutron Dance’ were both written in under an hour.”

“Lead Me On” became a generational classic almost by accident. From a painful breakup song its artist almost passed on to an unbeatable No. 2 spot on Billboard’s all-time rankings, it remains Maxine Nightingale’s ultimate masterpiece.

Related: A 1979 Country Smash About the Devil Spawned a Superstar Sequel 14 Years Later

Cheesecake Factory is bringing all the fall vibes with the return of two beloved seasonal classics.

As the calendar flips to September and meteoroligcal fall begins, the menu now includes the returning pumpkin and pumpkin pecan cheesecake.

It wasn’t a quiet return either, as the restaurant chain took to Instagram to make the announcement, writing, “the comeback everyone was waiting for 👀.”

“Cheesecake factory pumpkin and pumpkin pecan cheesecake comeback,” it continued.

There was plenty of excitement in the comments section, as fans celebrated the long-awaited return, with one writing, “Best things about September is this and my birthday ❤️😍.”

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“BEST NEWS EVER,” “Ive been waiting!!” and “We are sooo back!!! 🎃🔥🔥” comments poured in.

One customer made a bold declaration, revealing that nothing was going to stand in their way of getting their hands on a slice or two, noting, “Im gonna cry this is beautiful😭 im driving 4 hrs this weekend just to go there.”

Cheesecake Factory’s website also celebrated the news. “The wait is over! Our Pumpkin and Pumpkin Pecan Cheesecakes are back in season for a limited time!”

“We think our Pumpkin Cheesecake is better than the best pumpkin pie (and we’re sure you’ll agree!) And our Pumpkin Pecan Cheesecake is the best of both worlds, combining our famous Pumpkin Cheesecake with a decadent pecan pie in a pastry crust,” the mouthwatering description continued.

While there’s no official cutoff date for when the two desserts will be removed from the menu, Cheesecake Factory warns that they’re usually only available “through Thanksgiving.”

And that means—you have about three months to get your pumpkin and pumpkin pecan fix before it’s gone again!

During your next trip to one of the 370 full-service locations, don’t forget to try their newly released menu items, which includes brunch plates, appetizers and bites, dinner items and even a new cheesecake flavor—Brownie Crunch Choc-a-lot Cheesecake.

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A great tailgate or game-day party is all about atmosphere, great snacks, and a little creativity. The right setup can transform a parking lot or living room into a spirited fan zone. Because after all, with a festive spread and good company, every game day becomes a winning event.

Walmart just unveiled a portable, football-shaped charcuterie board that’s about to become the talk of the parking lot — and it’s only $25. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just there for the snacks, the Totally Bamboo Football-Shaped Charcuterie Board is the ultimate way to serve up cheese cubes with a little spirit this season.

Totally Bamboo Football-Shaped Charcuterie Board, From $25 at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Crafted with sustainable bamboo, it’s shaped just like a regulation football, complete with laser-etched laces. At 15 inches long, it’s the perfect size for stacking with all your tailgate favorites: sharp cheddar, pepperoni, crackers, or maybe even a touchdown-worthy guac display. 

This isn’t just a serving tray; it’s a conversation starter. Imagine rolling up to your buddy’s tailgate, board in hand, and wowing everyone with this festive find. The included hang tie means it moonlights as wall art when it’s not in action, so you can flaunt your football fandom in the kitchen all year round.

Gift givers should also take note. This board is a winning pick for football lovers, coaches, or anyone who loves to host. One reviewer shared that they bought the board as a gift for their sister, and then had to buy a second soon after for the sister’s neighbor who fell in love with it. 

“Another shopper called it a “nice addition for displaying snacks,” adding that the quality “exceeded” expectations.

Beyond the eye-catching design, you’ll appreciate the eco-friendly bamboo, which is gentle on knives and easy to wipe clean. The board is sturdy enough for travel, so you’ll always be ready to host wherever the game takes you.

Shop More Deals

• Beautiful by Drew Barrymore 6-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker, $54 (was $64) at Walmart
• Michael Kors Jet Set Stadium Sized Crossbody Bag, $60 (was $289) at Walmart
• MinnARK Cornhole Board with Bean Bags, $60 (was $70) at Walmart

Related: Walmart’s New Budget-Friendly Fashion Line Includes $27 Sneakers With a ‘Retro’ Designer-Inspired Look

For just $25, this football-shaped charcuterie board is a tailgate touchdown. It’s fun, functional, and guaranteed to earn you extra points with hungry fans. Grab one before kickoff to level up yourh snack table!

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.

A new wedding photo featuring Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce has made its way online—but Swifties hoping for their first glimpse at the couple’s own nuptials will have to keep waiting.

The never-before-seen snap is actually from the May wedding of the couple’s friends Chelsea Barrie and Eli London in Brooklyn, months before Swift and Kelce tied the knot themselves.

Barrie shared the group photo on Instagram ahead of her 35th birthday while reflecting on the past year. “Turning 35 tomorrow and looking back on the best year of my life, by far. All because of these humans 💗,” she captioned the post.

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While the newlyweds obviously took center stage, Swift and Kelce managed to create a memorable moment of their own in the background. Swift, wearing a bronze dress, can be seen smiling as Kelce lifts her into the air while posing with the group.

The playful interaction quickly caught the internet’s attention after a fan account reshared the photo online.

“What a privilege it would be for her to be at YOUR wedding,” one person shared on X.

“I love that she gets to be so normal around him and his people… like imagine TS being in the back in a group photo when she literally is a camera magnet!” another wrote on Instagram.

A third said, “bro, what I’d give to party with taylor💔.”

Another photo in the gallery shows Kelce and Swift lovingly looking on at the couple while they spoke to their guests.

The photo comes nearly four months after Barrie and London exchanged vows in May—and almost two months after Swift and Kelce had a much more closely guarded wedding of their own.

READ MORE: Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s Wedding Featured Performances by Two Music Legends

The superstar singer and Kansas City Chiefs tight end married at New York City’s Madison Square Garden on July 3 following a relationship that first began making headlines in 2023.

Despite the enormous attention surrounding their wedding, Swift and Kelce have yet to publicly release photos from the ceremony, leaving fans waiting to see everything from Swift’s bridal look to more intimate moments from the celebration.

“Doing everything but posting their own wedding pics,” a fan joked on Instagram.

Their guest list, however, was packed with familiar faces. Selena Gomez, Gigi Hadid, Gracie Abrams, Bradley Cooper, and several of Kelce’s Chiefs teammates were among those reportedly in attendance.

Related: Adam Sandler Shared One Piece of Marriage Advice to Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce Guests Won’t Forget

“Father Figure” was a massive hit for George Michael.

Following its release on Dec. 28, 1987, it climbed the charts to become the fourth single from Michael’s Faith album to top Billboard’s Hot 100, making him the only male British solo artist to achieve the feat. Faith, the album that spawned the hits, also topped the Billboard 200.

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Tragically, 28 years after the chart triumph, George Michael died in the early hours of Christmas Day in 2016 of natural causes.

Now, nearly a decade after his death, “Father Figure” lives again, through a new live version recorded in Paris released Sept. 2. It previews The Faith Tour, an 18-track live album of previously unreleased performances, set for release on Nov. 6.

The album was recorded during the European leg of Michael’s Faith Tour at Palais Omnisports de Paris-Bercy. Live versions of all the classic hit singles from Faith are featured on the live set, including the title track, “Father Figure,” “One More Try,” and “Monkey.”

Along with Michael’s familiar hits, the live performance also captured the singer tipping his hat to his heroes and influences with covers of Stevie Wonder’s “Love’s in Need of Love Today” and Labelle’s “Lady Marmalade.” He also gave a nod to his early years, performing Wham!’s “Everything She Wants” and “I’m Your Man.”

But that’s not all. George Michael: The Faith Tour concert movie is coming to theaters in North America on Dec. 11.

The Faith Tour live album will be released on vinyl, including a limited-edition picture disc, as well as a three-LP and two-CD deluxe box set including a 136-page book with previously unreleased images from the tour.  The album was mixed by Chris Porter and David Austin and mastered by John Webber.

Porter, who also engineered the original Faith album, spoke about the set’s impact in an interview for The Billboard Book of Number One Albums. “We had no idea the album would sell as well as it did,” he said, “but we did know that it would make people see him in a different light.”

The bevy of activity surrounding Michael’s legacy comes as Ella Boh, a Los Angeles-based alt-pop artist, has released a version of Michael’s 1984 No. 1 hit, “Careless Whisper,” originally released on Wham!’s Make It Big album, but issued as a single in Michael’s name helping the singer/songwriter transition into a solo artist.

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If your hair has some damage that makes it a bit difficult to manage, Jennifer Aniston’s LolaVie Restorative Shampoo will do wonders. Even better, you can snag it right at Ulta during your next shopping trip.

LolaVie’s Restorative Shampoo has a bond-building formula that helps fix the appearance of damage while protecting against breakage. It is also formulated without silicones, sulfates, parabens, gluten or phthalates. Instead, it has a few key ingredients that make this shampoo a game changer, including a longevity complex that supports hair health while stopping breakage; pea peptides that nourish and hydrate strands beautifully; a B-Pro Bond Technology that prevents, protects and repairs the appearance of hair aging and damage; and ceramides that condition and nourish to help smooth your hair’s texture.

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LolaVie Restorative Shampoo, $32 at Ulta

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This LolaVie shampoo is safe for color-treated strands and is suitable for all hair types. It’s also available in three sizes: a two-ounce travel size, a full 8.5-ounce size and a mega 12-ounce size, giving you options.

Related: Ulta Just Dropped a Brand-New Bronzing Serum That Gives Skin an Instant Glow

Overall, shoppers are super impressed with this shampoo, giving it an average rating of 4.2 stars on Ulta.com, appreciating it for its moisturizing, non-greasy formula.

“For anyone with unruly hair! I can finally say that washing my hair is no longer a chore, thanks to Lolavie,” wrote one reviewer, going on to say that this shampoo helped their hair find the perfect balance between volume and moisture. “After just one use, I was in hair heaven. No greasy scalp, no squeaky-clean feeling that leaves my hair frizzy and dry and—get this—it actually gave me volume that I don’t usually need!” they went on to say in their five-star review on Ulta.com.

“This stuff is magic!” said another Ulta shopper in a five-star review. “Since I started using this product my hair looks like a salon style every time I wash and blow dry my hair. I use it as a concentrate and add it to my shampoo.”

You can pick up LolaVie’s Restorative Shampoo at select Ulta stores or order it on Ulta’s website. The full 8.5-ounce size retails for $32.

Related: Jennifer Aniston’s ‘Must-Have’ Hair Product at Ulta Is a Game Changer for Tangly Strands

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Cool nights call for warm bedding — but given that it’s still summer, you might not be ready to make the switch quite just yet. The solution? A light collection like the Easthome Store Comforter Set is made exactly for situations like this. It’s airy enough to keep you comfortable when temperatures are high, yet substantial enough to help you drift off when it’s cooler.

Not only is it seasonally versatile, but it’s an outstanding deal at Amazon right now. You can pick up the black, navy blue, and dark gray versions for only $38 right now, down from the original $53 retail price. Other colors, including beige and emerald green, are also available starting at just $44. Need a different size? You can also snag it in full, oversized queen, king, California king, and oversized king options for less.

Easthome Store Comforter Set, From $38 (was $53) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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The set contains everything you need to quickly refresh your bedding, including a comforter, flat sheet, fitted sheet with 14-inch pockets, two pillow shams, and two standard pillowcases. Everything is made from the softest microfiber fabric, which boasts a smooth and buttery feel and is known to retain its soft texture over time.

Because the comforter is inherently seasonless, it will provide just the right amount of coverage during the last few weeks of summer. At the first sign of fall weather, though, you’ll continue to feel comfortable thanks to the generous down-alternative filling. And if you need it, you can easily layer the comforter over a blanket for added warmth.

Every piece is so easy to maintain, too. Simply toss your bedding into the washing machine using cold water and a gentle cycle to preserve the color and protect the integrity of the fabric. You can safely put it in the dryer on a low heat setting, too. Several shoppers shared that they’ve washed and dried the set multiple times, and it’s stayed fresh.

According to a reviewer, the fabric is “incredibly soft, comfortable, and feels great against the skin.” They noted that it has a “lightweight yet warm” feel, while another person described the set as “pure luxury for your money.”

Shop More Deals

• Partphoner Table Lamp Set, $34 (was $50) at Amazon
• Plhxfr Floral Area Rug, $56 (was $70) at Amazon
• Vasagle Side Table, $24 (was $40) at Amazon

Related: Amazon’s 3-Piece Lazy Susan Set Is an ‘Organizing Dream Come True’ for Just $20

It’s rare for bed to nail the balance of comfort and aesthetic appeal so well, but the Easthome Store Comforter Set gets it right and provides you with bedding you can use year-round. Pick it up in the size and color of your choice while it’s on sale at Amazon!

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We’re just over a week into a world without Dolly Parton, and everyone is still finding their footing and trying to understand a musical landscape without one of the most important musicians to ever live. Parton was a larger than life titan of the country music world who was so ubiquitous, it’s equally hard to live in a world without her as it is to imagine a world before she became the star we all loved. Believe it or not, there was a time in the past where Parton wasn’t really known as an individual. That recognition wouldn’t start until the release of her 1971 classic, “Coat of Many Colors.”

Before the release of the record, Parton was more known for being singing partners with fellow country star Porter Wagoner, who introduced her to the world on his TV program. By the time 1971 rolled around, Parton was dipping into being a solo performer, and put out a record featuring just her voice, and a good amount of songs she wrote herself. “Coat of Many Colors” was an authentic and personal portrait of the world and life that Dolly Parton knew, and it became her biggest success to date. It endures to this day as one of her most celebrated albums, even topping Rolling Stone’s “100 Greatest Country Albums” list.

So what does the album that “made” Dolly Parton have to offer? Let’s take a look.

The biggest hit from this record is the title track that opens the album. It’s a portrait of the class divide that Parton experienced as a child and the beauty and reverence she had for the effort her family put in despite having no money. It’s a magnificently written song the Parton delivers with such earnestness and warmth, and her singing on it is downright gorgeous. I think my favorite line in the whole song is one that summarizes Parton’s worldview really nicely: “One is only poor only if they choose to be. Now I know we had no money, but I was rich as I could be.”

My other favorite song from the record is “Early Morning Breeze,” which captures Parton’s love of nature and the splendor of rural Appalachia. Once again the writing and performance is really great here, but I’m struck by the way the bass part really grooves on this song. The part is extremely lyrical and funky, which is not something I would really expect from an early ’70s Dolly Parton record.

While the world continues to mourn the loss of an American icon, “Coat of Many Colors” is an album that can help us reflect on the love that Dolly Parton brought into the world, and the love that we would all benefit from practicing in our regular lives more often.

Related: 1974 Willie Nelson Record, Ranked Among the Greatest Ever, Was Country’s First Successful Concept Album

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Supplements are supposed to do just what their name says: supplement your health and fill in any potential nutritional gaps that your diet can’t or doesn’t cover.

However, supplements can cause complications when they interact with certain medications, which can be serious—and that’s aside from supplements not being regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which is a whole other (quite serious) issue.

One example of a medication that may interact with some supplements is thyroid medication, especially levothyroxine.

Levothyroxine is commonly prescribed to patients with hypothyroidism, which is when your thyroid is underactive and doesn’t produce enough hormones. Endocrinologists may also prescribe this medication for enlarged thyroid glands (sometimes called goiter). It’s also sometimes used as a component of thyroid-dependent well-differentiated thyroid cancer treatment, which also typically entails surgery and radioiodine therapy, according to Cleveland Clinic.

Find out what supplement endocrinologists specifically say to approach with caution if you’re on thyroid medication.

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The Supplement Endocrinologists Say To Avoid if You’re on Thyroid Medication

This one is frustrating, because it’s such a common supplement, especially for women: It’s calcium! Since it’s a key nutrient for bone health, many women (yours truly included) may supplement their diets with extra calcium, especially if they have a high risk for or family history of osteoporosis.

The good news? You may not have to eschew calcium supplements entirely if you’re on thyroid medication, endocrinologists agree, but you do need to exercise extra care and caution with your dosage of both your medication and your supplements.

According to Dr. Rachel Pessah-Pollack, MD, FACE, endocrinologist and clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Health, calcium supplements aren’t inherently harmful to patients taking thyroid medication, but the timing is key to making sure it’s a healthy move.

“Calcium supplements can affect whether you get your full dose of thyroid medication and it may be necessary to change the timing of your calcium supplements to ensure you are absorbing your full dose of levothyroxine,” Dr. Pessah-Pollack explains. “If you take your calcium too close to your levothyroxine, you may not get your prescribed dose. I recommend to my patients on levothyroxine to take their thyroid medication on an empty stomach away from food and other medications, including vitamins, and to separate their vitamins by at least four hours from when they take their levothyroxine, especially for calcium.”

Related: The Morning Habit That’s Actually Making You More Tired by Noon, According to Endocrinologists

How To Protect and Encourage Bone Health if You’re on Thyroid Medication

You can still take calcium supplements to protect and preserve your precious bones, even if you’re on medication to treat hypothyroidism—just be smart about when and how you take your supplements relative to your meds.

“Calcium supplements can generally be taken safely with thyroid medication, but timing is important for anyone on levothyroxine,” MedStar Health endocrinologist Dr. Anar Modi, MD, emphasizes. “Calcium can bind to levothyroxine in gastrointestinal tract and decrease absorption of levothyroxine. I recommend separating the calcium supplement by four hours from thyroid medication. For example, if someone takes thyroid replacement medication in morning, they can take calcium with lunch or dinner. This interaction does not generally apply to antithyroid medications such as methimazole or PTU (propylthiouracil) used to treat hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid).”

Dr. Modi adds that if you’re taking appropriate doses of hypothyroid medication and keeping your thyroid hormone levels in healthy ranges, the medication itself doesn’t pose a risk to bone health, and that there are other ways to boost your bone health overall that don’t necessarily require a supplement.

“However, taking too much thyroid hormone for a prolonged period of time can contribute to bone loss,” she warns. “Untreated or inadequately treated controlled hyperthyroidism can also lead to bone loss. Taking adequate amount of calcium and vitamin D along with regular weight-bearing exercises can be protective for bones. Women age 51 years and older need about 1,200 mg of calcium per day from supplement or diet or both.”

If you aren’t sure how much calcium you need or if you’re getting enough from your diet, talk to your doctor and/or a registered dietitian and let them know everything you’re currently eating and all the medications and supplements you’re taking so they can determine the best route for you.

Related: ‘I’m an Endocrinologist—This Is the First Thing I Check When Someone Can’t Lose Weight’

Photo by Sven Mieke on Unsplash

Other Supplements To Use With Caution if You Take Thyroid Medication

According to endocrinologist Dr. Malek Cheikh, MD, depending on your personal health history and prescriptions, most supplements are relatively safe to use, even if you’re on thyroid medication—but some in particular require more caution than others regarding timing, just like calcium.

“None are risky but some supplements may blunt the absorption of levothyroxine and we request it to be separated in timing and not necessarily avoid it,” Dr. Cheikh tells Parade. “The ones that come to mind would be iron, magnesium-containing antiacids, phosphate binders, proton pump inhibitors and soy products.”

Dr. Modi adds one particular common supplement to be wary of, especially if you have bloodwork coming up.

“Biotin found in hair and nail supplements does not interfere with thyroid medication itself,” she says, “but it can interfere with thyroid blood tests and produce misleading results.”

Up Next:

Related: Registered Dietitians Are Begging People To Do This One Thing To Prevent Bone Loss

Sources

• Dr. Malek Cheikh, MD, endocrinologist at MedStar Health
• Dr. Anar Modi, MD, endocrinologist at MedStar Health
• Dr. Rachel Pessah-Pollack, MD, FACE, endocrinologist and clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Health

Back in January 1974, ABC took a gamble on a retro sitcom. That show was Happy Days, and half a century later, it’s still the ultimate TV comfort food.

Viewers instantly were drawn to the comedy series sweet ’50s nostalgia, even though the decade it was honoring had wrapped up just 20 years earlier. However, the series wasn’t a hit right out of the gate.

According to the Orange County Register, the sitcom was a moderate hit during its first season. It ran for two months and ranked at No. 16.

Ratings dropped during Season 2, when CBS scheduled Good Times directly against Happy Days. ABC was ready to pull the plug, but producer Garry Marshall retooled the series, putting Henry Winkler‘s “The Fonz” front and center.

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The OC Register reported that subsequently, “the show rocketed to No. 11 in 1975-76 and No. 1 the next year.” The show enjoyed a huge shift in popularity, but slowly declined in later seasons, according to Ultimate Classic Rock. By the end of its run, Happy Days was at a low ratings point, No. 63, and the series concluded on May 8, 1984.

But that didn’t stop Happy Days from being ranked one of the 20 Greatest TV Shows of the ’70s by Movieweb. It landed among other unforgettable television classics like Mork & Mindy, The Incredible Hulk, M*A*S*H, Columbo, Three’s Company, and Welcome Back Kotter.

The outlet wrote, “Happy Days is a sitcom about a working-class family navigating everyday situations, a familiar and successful formula for the era. In this case, the show’s sharp humor and stellar cast helped it stand above its contemporaries and become one of the most beloved sitcoms, even after it coined the term “Jumping the Shark” after the Fonz did just that. Still, the show helped turn Henry Winkler into a star, and it is cemented as one of the most beloved shows of the 70s and 80s.”

The comedy was so popular in its heyday, it produced no fewer than five spinoff series.

Blansky’s Beauties centered on Nancy Walker as Nancy Blansky, the cousin of Howard Cunningham (Tom Bosley), who managed an apartment building full of Las Vegas showgirls. Though the sitcom ended after just one season, launched three future stars of the Garry Marshall universe: Happy Days stars Scott Baio (Chachi Arcola), Lynda Goodfriend (Lori Beth), and Eddie Mekka, who later moved over to Laverne & Shirley as Carmine “The Big Ragu” Ragusa.

Laverne & Shirley was created after Penny Marshall and Cindy Williams appeared in three Happy Days episodes and were so popular that a series was created around their characters. Out of the Blue was developed after Jimmy Brogan, as Ransom, appeared as an angel trying to save Chachi from selling his soul to the devil.

Joanie Loves Chachi spun Scott Baio and Erin Moran‘s characters into their own sitcom as they moved to Chicago to start a rock band. Finally, Mork & Mindy was developed after Robin Williams appeared in a 1978 episode of the sitcom titled “My Favorite Orkan.”

Related: ‘Happy Days’ Was Actually a Spinoff of This Forgotten Early ’70s TV Series

Son Ye-jin is back on TV. The Scandal premieres on Netflix on September 18 as an eight-episode series released all at once. Her first drama since Thirty-Nine in 2022. Four years away from the small screen. She returns opposite Ji Chang-wook and Nana in a Joseon-era adaptation of Dangerous Liaisons, directed by Jung Ji-woo. It’s steamy. It’s politically charged. It’s set in one of history’s most rigidly ordered societies. She turned down everything else for four years and said yes to this. That tells you something. It premieres in 16 days.

Ji Chang-wook brings the controlled intensity of The Worst of Evil to Cho Won. He plays the aristocratic playboy who accepts the seduction wager Lady Cho proposes. Nana established her dramatic credentials in Mask Girl on Netflix and plays Hui-yeon, the widow they’ve made their target. Director Jung Ji-woo made Happy End and Eungyo — films that examine desire and what it costs people without looking away. He doesn’t make comfortable films about uncomfortable subjects. “I didn’t want it to simply follow the structure of a melodrama,” he’s said. “I built the story around protagonists who have a modern sense of self and ask ‘Who am I?'” That’s exactly the right instinct for this material.

Lady Cho appears to be everything Joseon society demands: chaste, obedient, and contained. She’s none of those things. She’s the one who proposes the wager in the first place — she selects the target, draws Cho Won into the game, and sets the terms. It’s the kind of role that requires an actress who can make virtue and ruthlessness coexist in the same expression. Son Ye-jin chose this after four years of turning down everything else. That’s not a coincidence. She wasn’t invisible during those four years either. She made films. She stayed in the industry. But she walked away from TV specifically. The Scandal is the reason she came back.

The series is a TV remake of the 2003 Korean film Untold Scandal starring Bae Yong-joon and Jeon Do-yeon, which was itself based on Pierre Choderlos de Laclos‘ 1782 novel Les Liaisons dangereuses. Untold Scandal is still considered one of the finest Korean period films ever made. This Netflix version arrives 23 years later with a global platform and the pressure of following something genuinely celebrated.

Related: Seo Kang-joon and Ahn Eun-jin Are 10 Years Unmarried in ‘A Love Other Than Yours.’ It Asks the Question Nobody Wants to Answer

The Joseon setting raises the stakes in a way the original French setting couldn’t. In 18th-century France, reputation was social currency. In Joseon Korea (1392-1910), a woman’s virtue was her entire existence. Not just her reputation. Her existence. Running a seduction game in that environment isn’t just transgressive. It’s existentially dangerous. And Hui-yeon is the perfect target. A widow in Joseon had already lost the social protection marriage provided. She’s specifically vulnerable in a society where female virtue is everything. Lady Cho knows exactly what she’s doing.

The Return Nobody Saw Coming

Crash Landing on You made Son Ye-jin an international name. Then she married Hyun Bin in 2022, stepped away from TV, and spent four years in the most public domesticity imaginable. The projects came. She said no. All of them. Until The Scandal.

Lady Cho is not a safe return role. She’s a noblewoman who proposes a seduction game and runs it on a widow who’s already lost everything once. She’s morally complex. She’s dangerous. She’s the kind of character you choose when you want to make a statement about what you’re capable of. Son Ye-jin waited four years. She came back for this.

The Scandal premieres on Netflix on September 18. All eight episodes at once. Lady Cho has been very patient. We can’t wait to watch!

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Curating the perfect fall wardrobe is easier than you’d think. Your go-to retailers are offering unbeatable deals ahead of Labor Day, so we’re scouting out the best clothing and footwear items that will take your seasonal wardrobe to the next level. If you’re prioritizing comfort and style for autumn, the Clarks Cloudsteppers Solevana Knit Slip-On Sneakers are an excellent pick while they’re 20% off at Walmart.

The sneakers originally cost $70, but have been reduced to $56 during a limited-time rollback deal. The footwear is being offered in three classic colors: blue, pink, and gray. The available sizes range from 5 to 12, including half sizes and options at a wide and medium width. The sneakers can run large, so you may want to consider sizing down. If you’re unsure, the size guide that’s available will help you make the right decision. 

Clarks Cloudsteppers Solevana Knit Slip-On Sneakers, $56 (were $70) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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These sneakers are going quickly, with several color and size combinations already out of stock, so make sure to shop for them sooner rather than later. The design features a 1.57-inch heel that’s made from foam to keep the shoe “lightweight” and not frustratingly bulky. There’s also a pull-tab that lets you put the slip-on shoe on and take it off easily. The best part about this style is the textile knit material that has small holes for breathability. 

Clarks Cloudsteppers Solevana Knit Slip-On Sneakers, $56 (were $70) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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Since these sneakers are intended to keep you cool, you can wear them throughout the hotter months too, making them the perfect summer-to-fall transition shoe. This feature also makes them a great option for daily walks and moderate exercise. The material allows the shoe to be flexible while still keeping your feet secure, so you can move freely without having to constantly adjust them. 

One shopper called the shoes “so comfortable,” adding that they feel like “walking on air.” Clarks shoes are known to be durable, reliable, and cozy, so they’re one of those styles you can count on for years. Wear them to take your dog out or to dinner with friends — the options are truly endless. 

Shop More Deals 

• UVN 2-Piece Pajama Set, $23 (was $29) at Walmart
• Apsvo Sterling Silver-Plated Tennis Bracelet, $13 (was $110) at Walmart
• Poropl Wide Leg Pants, $4 (were $5) at Walmart

These convenient sneakers would look so fashionable with jeans and a comfy cardigan this autumn. Or, you can achieve the cool street style look by pairing them with a plaid skirt and oversized T-shirt. But first, make sure you take advantage of Walmart’s 20% off deal while your preferred color and size are still in stock! 

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

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If you feel a little burned out hearing about unattainable luxury airline suites with five-figure price tags and sliding privacy doors meant only for transcontinental red-eyes, you are not alone. For most everyday travelers booking standard flights home for the holidays or a quick weekend getaway, what really matters in the front of the plane comes down to three practical things: actual seat comfort, decent food, and not feeling nickel-and-dimed.

JetBlue is aiming to fix that middle-ground domestic travel gap with the debut of BlueFirst, an all-new domestic first-class experience rolling out to aircraft later this year.

While the carrier already operates its lie-flat Mint cabin on cross-country and transatlantic routes, BlueFirst is designed specifically for all the standard domestic markets across JetBlue’s network where Mint doesn’t fly. That means travelers flying shorter, everyday routes will finally have an elevated domestic option that trades stuffy, predictable airline tropes for clever, practical perks.

As Joanna Geraghty, chief executive officer of JetBlue, explained: “Domestic first class has become easy to predict. We think it’s time for a fresh take. Customers are increasingly looking for more premium experiences, and BlueFirst gives them an elevated experience that feels distinctly JetBlue, with thoughtful touches, caring service and great value. It’s another way we’re bringing our JetForward strategy to life and giving customers more reasons to choose JetBlue.”

Related: I Toured JetBlue’s New BlueHouse Lounge at Boston Logan

JetBlue BlueFirst B-Roll (1:03) Mattress-Grade Cushions and On-Demand Custom Cocktails

Rather than recycling standard hard-leather recliners, JetBlue partnered with direct-to-consumer sleep brand Tuft & Needle to build custom seats using their responsive T&N Flex foam. Arranged in a two-by-two layout, the seats deliver five inches of recline and up to seven extra inches of legroom compared to standard core seating, built specifically to relieve lower-back pressure on multi-hour flights.

The most fun feature, however, sits right on the 13.3-inch seatback screen.

Through an upgraded entertainment platform, BlueFirst introduces seatback ordering with an interactive “Mixologist Mode.” Instead of waiting for a beverage cart to rumble down the aisle while trying to flag down a flight attendant, passengers can use their touchscreen to customize a cocktail—choosing their base spirit, preferred mixer, and flavor profiles—which transmits the drink ticket directly to the crew.

The screens also feature Bluetooth pairing so you can use your own wireless noise-canceling headphones, alongside in-seat USB-A, USB-C, and standard 110V AC power outlets, paired with the airline’s signature free gate-to-gate Fly-Fi high-speed internet.

“Customers told us loud and clear that comfort matters most, so that’s where we started. We worked with Tuft & Needle to create an added level of comfort that makes BlueFirst feel different from the moment you sit down,” Geraghty said. “Traditional first-class food and beverage can feel stuck in the past. BlueFirst is our way of refreshing the experience for today’s traveler. From creating your own cocktail and ordering right from your seatback screen, to a thoughtfully crafted seat that offers responsive comfort, we’re making the experience more personal, modern and fun. Premium should feel special, not stuffy.”

Related: JetBlue Joins ‘Basic Premium’ Trend With Cheaper First-Class Options

Upgraded Bento Dining, Craft Coffee, and Airport Perks

On flights measuring 899 miles or longer, dining is served in a curated, bento-inspired box dubbed FirstFare, featuring a complete trio of an entrée, side, and dessert with choices like sweet or savory crepes and sesame noodles with beef or tofu.

The drink menu gets an artisanal boost with sommelier-curated wines from New York’s Parcelle, specialty coffee from Cometeer and Joe Coffee, and artisan teas from Smith Teamaker, served in glassware from Fable with custom artist-illustrated coasters. Snack baskets also get an upgrade with rotating treats from cult-favorite brands including Sockerbit, Tosi, Wholesome Bakery, Pop Daddy Snacks, and Cape Cod Chips.

On the ground, BlueFirst tickets include practical time-savers: Group 1 boarding, dedicated overhead bin space, priority check-in, two free checked bags, priority baggage delivery, and expedited security lane access at more than 30 airports.

Booking availability and the initial roster of launch routes will be announced later this fall, giving frequent domestic flyers a much more approachable, comfortable way to upgrade their everyday flights.

Related: JetBlue’s Mint Passengers Are Finally Getting Free Lounge Access

George Clooney isn’t staying quiet when it comes to the controversy surrounding Mark Ruffalo and Paramount.

The Oscar winner spoke out in defense of Ruffalo’s right to express his views during a press conference at the Venice Film Festival on Wednesday, September 2, where Clooney is set to receive the Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement Award.

If you’re just now catching up on the ordeal, Clooney was responding to the fallout surrounding Ruffalo’s recent public criticism of the proposed Paramount Skydance and Warner Bros. merger. The Marvel actor has spoken against the deal and the Ellison family behind Paramount Skydance, including accusing the family of complicity in the “genocide” against Palestinians. Paramount pushed back on Ruffalo’s remarks, accusing him of invoking “antisemitic tropes.”

Clooney made it clear that regardless of whether he agrees with the actor, he supports his right to speak. “I support Mark Ruffalo’s ability to speak freely,” Clooney told Variety. “It’s ridiculous. We’re not going to ban speech. I believe in free speech even when I completely disagree with it. That’s important. In fact, it’s part of how democracy works.”

He continued, “There are going to be people tonight in the room that are going to disagree with most everything I say. Fair enough, that’s how it’s supposed to be.” He also said that he likes Ruffalo and considers him “a good man.”

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Clooney also expressed his own reservations about the proposed Paramount-Warner Bros. merger, particularly when it comes to the people working for the companies. “I always worry whenever big companies are consolidating because it means a lot of people are going to lose their jobs,” he said, while acknowledging that he doesn’t know how the deal will ultimately play out.

Clooney’s appearance in Venice comes after a frightening summer for his family. In late July, he and wife Amal Clooney were forced to evacuate their home in Brignoles, France, with their 9-year-old twins, Alexander and Ella, as wildfires spread through the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region.

READ MORE: George Clooney and Wife Amal Face Devastating Uncertainty as They’re Forced to Flee Home

At the time, the couple acknowledged that they didn’t know whether their home would survive the fires but made clear that their priority was the safety of their neighbors. They also promised to remain part of the community’s recovery regardless of the damage. “Amal and I are committed to making sure that whatever happens to our village, we are part of this community and we’ll be part of making it whole,” they wrote in a letter to Brignoles Mayor Didier Brémond.

The Clooneys were among thousands displaced as wildfires swept across southern Europe, with evacuations taking place across parts of France and Spain. It’s unclear whether or not their home was affected.