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Iconic '70s Rocker Spotted Taking Casual Stroll Before Concert: 'An Absolute Genius Just Walking the Street'

Fri, 07/03/2026 - 11:27am

Loving classic rock music is both deeply rewarding and profoundly disheartening. On the one hand, you're privy to some of the most culturally defining music in history; on the other, your opportunities to experience even a glimmer of that '60s and '70s magic are drastically dwindling. So when a sighting of a '70s legend actually happens, the internet goes into an appropriate tizzy.

Just before his show in North Carolina, the prolific singer and songwriter Todd Rundgrenwas spotted leisurely strolling the streets of Durham. Sporting a simple t-shirt and his now-signature patch of silvery, bleached hair, Rundgren moseyed about town and even stopped to sign a few autographs.

People were thrilled to see the revered artist out and about.

@thecarolinacockroach

Todd Rundgren taking a stroll in Durham, North Carolina ahead of his show at the Carolina Theatre @the_todd_rundgren #ToddRundgren #RockNRoll #Music #RockMusic #PopMusic

♬ Hello It's Me (2015 Remaster) - Todd Rundgren

"I wish he knew how good his music makes me feel," one emphatic fan complimented.

"His music just captures the '70s. You can't help but smile," added another fan.

"An absolute genius just walking the street," noted another.

"I wish I could thank him personally for all the memories that his music holds in my heart," a fourth follower shared.

Todd Rundgren's Incredible Career

Rundgren is a Philadelphia native and credits the local scene for the influences he was exposed to as a youth, primarily the Black artists who made Philly culturally relevant. DJ Jerry Blavat almost exclusively played R&B, highlighting artists like Chubby Checker ("The Twist"), The Orlons ("South Street"), and Dee Dee Sharp ("The Mashed Potatoes"). In a 2018 talk, Rundgren noted that, while he didn't necessarily incorporate those specific styles into his music, he credits that environment, along with his parents' limited musical allowances, for forming his own unique sound.

That sound really started taking shape for Rundgren in high school, which he attended through the '60s. His high school cover band was called Money, and he later joined a popular local blues group, Woody's Truck Stop, as a rhythm and slide guitar player.

His bandmates ultimately decided to move to the country to take drugs and make "acid rock," but a sober Rundgren refused to join them. That separation allowed him to form Nazz, which launched his trajectory into power pop and progressive rock.

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Rundgren never once played it safe in his career, neither as a performer nor as a producer. While working with Albert Grossman—the famed manager who represented the likes of Bob Dylan,Janis Joplin, and more—he asked if he could take a shot at recording his own solo album. Grossman agreed, and Rundgren got his first unexpected radio hit, “We Gotta Get You a Woman,” despite the experimental elements on the album.

He's also considered a pioneer of music technology. Rundgren was one of the first rock artists to explore music video possibilities, advanced stage theatrics, and even internet-based fan distribution models.

Todd Rundgren's Current Tour

Rundgren is currently on tour across the U.S., making stops in small towns and big cities alike. According to his official site, the tour promises to "provide expansive musical experiences for his followers ranging from his early 1970s hits like 'Hello It's Me' and 'I Saw the Light', to groundbreaking multimedia performances."

Tickets are currently still available in several locations and will be well worth the investment.

Daniel Lissing Returns to Hallmark in New Christmas Movie—See the Exclusive Sneak Peek

Fri, 07/03/2026 - 11:19am

Daniel Lissing returns to Hallmark Channel and Hallmark+ opposite Jessica Lowndes in Christmas Under Construction, the first original movie in the network's annual Christmas in July event. The pair previously starred together in A December Bride and now reunite for a holiday romance set against the backdrop of a home renovation reality show. Lissing last appeared on Hallmark in the holiday movie, Single on the 25th.

Read on for more about Christmas Under Construction don't forget to check out the Parade exclusive sneak peek!

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What is Christmas Under Construction about?

Chelsea (Lowndes) and Jake (Adam Hurtig) are America’s sweethearts and the stars of a hit reality show, Renovation Romance, where they help couples transform their homes and relationships. For a live Christmas special, they’re tasked with renovating a cozy New Hampshire cabin alongside a new duo, Cooper (Lissing) and Janice (Samantha Kendrick). But behind the festive cheer, Chelsea and Jake’s relationship is fading. As their latest project progresses, it becomes clear to Chelsea that she and Jake have different priorities in life and must decide if their relationship can be salvaged or if it’s time for a fresh start.

Where was Christmas Under Construction filmed?

Christmas Under Construction was filmed in the province of Manitoba, Canada, specifically in Winnipeg and the surrounding areas.

Hallmark Media

Jessica Lowndes as Chelsea

Lowndes is a singer also, having released multiple singles and EPs. Her first album, Elemental, was released in 2022. Lowndes has appeared in multiple movies for Lifetime, Hallmark Channel, and Great American Family including Christmas at Pemberley Manor, Harmony from the Heart, and Mix Up in the Mediterranean. She also starred in Happy Howlidays, a Hallmark Channel film featuring the winner of Season 1 of Finding Mr. Christmas, Ezra Moreland.

Hallmark Media

Daniel Lissing as Cooper

Daniel Lissing is best known for playing Mountie Jack Thornton on Hallmark Channel’s When Calls the Heart, as well James King on ABC’s Last Resort. He reprised his role as Mountie Jack in a single scene on When Hope Calls: A Country Christmas on Great American Family. He also starred as a park ranger in GAF’s A Christmas Star opposite Sara Canning. He previously reunited with co-star Erin Krakow in Hallmark Channel’s Santa Tell Me. Last year, he starred in Single on the 25th opposite Lyndsy Fonseca which was inspired by the Lauren Spencer-Smith song.

Hallmark Media

Adam Hurtig plays Jake, Chelsea's co-host on their renovation show. He has appeared in supporting roles in several Hallmark movies including Following Yonder Star, Christmas on Call, and 'Tis the Season to Be Merry.

When does Christmas Under Construction premiere on Hallmark Channel?

Christmas Under Construction has its network premiere on Saturday, July 4 at 8 p.m.ET on Hallmark Channel and is available to stream the next day on Hallmark+.

Does Parade have a sneak peek of Christmas Under Construction?

Yes! Check out this Parade exclusive sneak peek of Christmas Under Construction below:

PARADE Exclusive - Christmas Under Construction - Sneak Peek (1:02) Check out images from Christmas Under Construction

Take a look at some select images from Christmas Under Construction in the gallery below.

Hallmark Media

Julie Chen Moonves Reveals the 5 'Big Brother' Moments She Wishes She Could Relive — and One Explains a Massive Rule Change (Exclusive)

Fri, 07/03/2026 - 11:00am

While Big Brother gets its name from the Orwellian surveillance figure in 1984, the CBS reality show also has one person overseeing it all: Julie Chen Moonves. Over 27 years, the veteran host has witnessed hundreds of evictions, the origin story of more married couples than The Bachelor, and some truly iconic fights and blindsides that make the summer reality show one of the first unscripted series to reach 1000 episodes.

This year, Big Brother28 will be taking a journey to the past, in more ways than one, with the "Big Brother: Time Trip" theme. According to CBS, this summer is "turning time into the ultimate twist," with a house decked out with relics from prehistoric days to the 1980s to futuristic times. And that will seemingly extend to the game proper, which the "Chenbot" reveals could involve revisiting old competitions or involving some "controversial people" in and out of Big Brother.

So, given the time travel theme of Season 28, when Parade got the chance to ask a question to Chen Moonves, we were remiss not to inquire about the top 5 moments in Big Brother history that she wishes she could hop in a metaphoric time machine and explore again. And her answers did not disappoint. Read below to find out the five moments Julie Chen Moonves wants to relive across 27 seasons of Big Brother.

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Keesha's birthday (Season 10) Keesha Smith morosely looks over her birthday cake after being part of one of the biggest fights in 'Big Brother' history

Screenshot courtesy of CBS

The first moment Chen Moonves picks is arguably the most iconic fight in the show's history. While Big Brother 10 is known as the origin story of legendary player Dan Gheesling, the house was absolutely packed with power players not afraid to speak their mind. And we got exactly that when Jessie Godderz overheard Keesha Smith and Libra Thompson complaining about their allies. "Mr. Pectacular" immediately began flexing on the information he had, leading to an outright screaming match between all the parties involved. And it all culminated in the funniest way possible: The most morose edition of "Happy Birthday to You" you've ever heard.

"Number one is Keesha's birthday, and everything before it and after it," Chen Moonves says. "Season 10, there was so much drama and intrigue and chaos and fighting and game playing at its best, all culminating with the worst happy birthday song ever sung, and someone saying, 'Who wants some cake?' You have to watch to know."

Related: Julie Chen Moonves Reveals ‘Controversial People’ Will Shake Up the ‘Big Brother 28’ Premiere

Frankie Grande wins the Battle of the Block by himself (Season 16) Actor, 'social media mogul,' and brother of Ariana Grande, Frankie Grande competed on 'Big Brother 16,' where he notably won a Battle of the Block competition by himself.

Screenshot courtesy of CBS

Recently, Parade got the chance to speak with Frankie Grande backstage at Titanique. And people who know him for his acting and relation to Ariana Grande may not know that, back in 2014, he was trading in showtunes for slop on Big Brother 16. While Frankie had spent most of the game in a concrete majority, it was far from comfortable. And that came to a head during Week 7. One of four nominees facing the new "Battle of the Block" twist, everyone in the house suddenly turned on him. It got to the point where Caleb Reynolds, who was supposed to be competing alongside Frankie to get off the block, refused to compete.

But it's clear one of the biggest competition beasts in the show's history could do the work of two Beastmode Cowboys. Frankie was able to do the impossible, winning a two-person challenge entirely by himself, and saving himself in a critical moment that would take him all the way to the Final 5. Frankie told us that he felt it was one of the most iconic moments in the show's history, and it seems that Chen Moonves agrees.

"He was public enemy number one," she recounts. "And he was told right then and there, 'I'm not doing it, you're on your own' by Caleb. And he won! And when he won, which was crazy, I saw forgiveness and redemption, I saw an apology. And he was crying, like, 'I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I'm sorry' to Caleb. I have chills talking about it."

Related: Frankie Grande Reveals Whether He’d Ever Return to ‘Big Brother’ (Exclusive)

Any Chilltown moment (Seasons 2 & 7) Will Kirby (L) and Mike 'Boogie' Malin (R), both 'Big Brother' winners, gloat over a fake Diary Room phone call about their duplicitous successes on Season 7

Screenshot courtesy of CBS

Arguably the most iconic Big Brother alliance is also its first. Formed in the very first week of Season 2, "Chilltown," consisting of Will Kirby, Mike "Boogie" Malin and Shannon Dragoo, cockily declared they would be running the show. They were immediately humbled, however, quickly losing the numbers and sending Boogie and Shannon out the door. But, while Chilltown lost those battles, they ultimately won the war, as Dr. Will's target was so big he somehow became invisible, taking home the victory.

Half a decade later, both Will and Boogie returned for the first-ever all-star edition of Big Brother. And, despite being the most obvious pair in the entire house, they somehow were able to not only skate by for the majority of the game, but simultaneously control it, making moves (and Diary Room sessions) that would eventually be the stuff of legend. Both men would make it to the Final Four, and though they were blindsided by their showmance partners, Boogie would have his turn in the winner's circle, being crown the champ of the all-stars cast. Their seasonlong antics were not only impressive, but incredibly entertaining, making them an easy choice for Chen Moonves.

Related: Will ‘Big Brother 28’ Have Returning Players? The Case For and Against

Danielle Reyes' Diary Room sessions (Season 3)

Chen Moonves is sticking with old-school for her fourth choice: The game-changing Danielle Reyes. Danielle made mincemeat of the Season 3 cast back in 2002, controlling much of the game with a secret partnership alongside Jason Guy. And she made it known how much she felt that way as well. The Diary Room serves as a personal, well, diary for the houseguests, publicizing their private thoughts without reproach from the competition. Danielle used her DR sessions to gloat about her game, make cracks at her fellow houseguests, and gleefully count down how many people there were "to go." The bad news: All of those people saw that scathing commentary as the season went along. And they were the ones to determine the winner.

"Number four would be all of Danielle Reyes' Season 3 Diary Room sessions," Chen Moonves. "Those sessions are why we have to sequester the jury."

Danielle would make the Final Two that season, but go on to lose near-unanimously to Lisa Donahue. The voters made particular note of the comments she had been making about them, with the Diary Room serving as an unintentional form of jury management. Indeed, to Chen Moonves's point, for the following season (and every main season of Big Brother moving forward) would adopt a jury model similar to Survivor, taking seven to nine evicted houseguests and sequestering them in a secondary location until finale night.

Related: ‘Big Brother’ Legend Danielle Reyes Addresses Rumors She’ll Be on Season 28

Janelle Pierzina becomes a comp beast Janelle Pierzina, winning the first of many competitions in her 'Big Brother' career on Season 6, celebrates with her most iconic quote: 'Bye bye, bitches!'

Screenshot courtesy of CBS

For two summers in a row, we watched Janelle Pierzina fight for months with her back against the wall. On both Season 6 and All-Stars, her allies were getting taken out left and right, setting up several "win-or-go-home" scenarios. Luckily, she won. Many, many times.

Her first time, she only wound up winning four comps total. But they were quite vital ones, and produced arguably her most iconic moment ("Bye bye, bitches" is perhaps the most usable quote in Big Brother history). Janelle then re-entered the house the next summer with a target on her back from the jump. But she yet again survived week after week, winning an astounding ten competitions (a record that held for over 15 years before finally being broken in Season 25). While Janelle wound up finishing just shy of the Final Two both times, she cemented her legacy as one of the best competitors in the show's history.

Related: ‘Big Brother’ Alumni Reveal the One Change They’d Make to the Show (Exclusive)

The Cookout makes history The 'Cookout' alliance worked behind the scenes to make the Final Six, guaranteeing 'Big Brother' would get its first-ever Black winner

Courtesy of CBS

Okay, technically, Chen Moonves picked six moments rather than five for this exercise. But: A. Given how many moments she's seen, picking five is quite a tall task. And B. File this under the exact definition of "Expect the unexpected." Regardless, to finish the list, she picked two very different narratives of triumph from completely different eras of the show.

Fifteen years after that record-setting run from Janelle, we arrived at a pivotal moment for the culture of Big Brother. In the wake of the George Floyd protests in 2020, CBS instituted a new diversity initiative, mandating that at least 50% of its reality TV casts be people of color. Big Brother 23 was the first season under the initiative, with six Black houseguests making up the cast of 16.

When the game started, they all independently agreed to look out for one another. But, as things progressed, a mission emerged. The "Cookout" alliance formed with one goal: To get to the end together to guarantee the first-ever Black winner of the flagship Big Brother (Tamar Braxton had won her season of Celebrity Big Brother in 2019). Thanks to a master plan mapped out by Tiffany Mitchell, they were able to succeed in their goal. The Cookout dominated the rest of the competition to make up the entire Final Six, earning their place in the Big Brother pantheon as one of the most successful alliances in the show's history.

"The Cookout moment, that made history," Chen Moonves muses. "If you know, you know. As a woman of color, that meant a lot to me."

75-Year-Old Classic & Banned Novel You Didn’t Realize Was Carried on the Beaches of D-Day

Fri, 07/03/2026 - 10:51am

When it comes to frequently banned books, the 1951 classic novel The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger comes up frequently. However, the background of the story itself is something worth focusing on.

There are many critics who are happy to debate the negative themes of the story. Salinger focused on rebellious characters, taboo subjects, and anti-establishment attitudes. While some viewed it as teen angst back in the day, there could be more to the subjects based on the time period in which it was written.

Salinger had six chapters completed during the D-Day landings at Utah Beach on June 6, 1945. He carried those six chapters with him in his gear, and he added to them as he could. In fact, the character of Holden was a way for Salinger to hold onto his own sanity, as he served as a counterintelligence officer after he was drafted into the U.S. Army.

Something that seems a little crazy to many is hearing that he even had a portable typewriter, so he could add to the story as he marched through Europe. He was part of the teams that would liberate concentration camps, and critics now believe that the character of Holden was a way for Salinger to work through the horrors of war. That need to hold onto childhood innocence and the feeling of deep cynicism comes from the PTSD experienced throughout the war.

It’s this character that has led to readers either loving or hating the book. For some, The Catcher in the Rye helps them connect to someone who shares similar views. To others, Holden is a deeply unlikable character, and it makes it difficult to enjoy the whole novel. While many of the themes of the book led to it being banned, the fact that it was found on Michael David Chapman, the man who assassinated John Lennon, led to discussions of it inciting violence.

The Catcher in the Rye was published in some serial formats before the whole novel was published in 1951. In 1945, an issue of Collier’s included material that would later be used in the book, and in 1946, a story titled Slight Rebellion off Madison, which featured Holden, was published by The New Yorker.

There was an attempt to bring a fan sequel shortly before Salinger’s death. However, he successfully sued to prevent that from happening, and now many view Fredrik Colting’s work as fan fiction.

Antonio Banderas and Melanie Griffith’s Daughter Stella Is So Stunning at the World Cup

Fri, 07/03/2026 - 10:44am

Antonio Banderas and Melanie Griffith's daughter, Stella Banderas, is absolutely stunning while enjoying the World Cup.

Antonio, 65, known for films ranging from Philadelphia and Evita to Shrek and The Mask of Zorro, married Griffith in 1996. Griffith, 68, scored acclaim for her famous role as Tess McGill in Working Girl, and went on to roles in projects like Celebrity and Crazy in Alabama. The duo's daughter, Stella, 28, headed to watch Spain play at the World Cup game in Los Angeles alongside her husband, AlexGruszynski. The brunette beauty sported a Spain jersey and smiled in a sweet selfie that showed the expansive field below them.

In the second slide, her father, a native of Spain, is shown celebrating the game thousands of miles away in Málaga.

"My daughter in Los Angeles, me in Málaga… staying connected and enjoying Spain’s match together," Antonio captioned the fun photo set.

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Banderas and Griffith Snuggled up on the Couch 11 Years After They Split

Recently, Banderas shared a sweet Instagram photo of the family cuddling on the couch. While he and Griffith split 11 years ago, they're still close friends.

“A lovely and fun moment yesterday in Los Angeles with my son-in-law Alex, my daughter Stella, and my ex-wife and lifelong friend, Melanie,” Banderas captioned the photo, which showed the fearsome foursome curled up on the couch for a photo.

View this post on Instagram When Did Antonio Banderas and Melanie Griffith Divorce?

Banderas and Griffith officially divorced in 2015 after separating in June 2014, the Associated Press reported at the time. It was determined that Banderas would have to pay Griffith up to $65,000 a month in spousal support.

Does Griffith Still Have Antonio’s Name Tattooed on Her Arm?

Griffith famously had her husband Antonio’s name tattooed on her upper arm, surrounded by a heart. Following their split, it was announced in the same article that Griffith began removing Banderas’ name from the heart tattoo on her arm. However, paparazzi photos from back in 2002 show it’s still a bit visible.

Jason LaVeris / Getty Images

Stranger Things Is About to Break a Netflix Rule

Fri, 07/03/2026 - 10:42am

ARTICLE:

Looking for a perfect gift for that "Stranger Things" fan in your life? Well, now's your chance.

For nine years, watching "Stranger Things" meant opening the Netflixapp. Starting July 27 in the UK and July 28 in the US and Canada, it means something else entirely. That's when Arrow Video and Netflix release "Stranger Things: The Complete Series," a 25-disc box set containing all 42 episodes across five seasons, and it's the first time Netflix has ever done this for one of its original series.

That's a pretty big thing. Netflix built its entire business on the opposite idea, that shows live on the platform and nowhere else, which means a canceled subscription can mean losing access to something you spent a decade watching. A handful of Netflix titles have gotten regional or licensed physical releases over the years, but nothing at this scale, and nothing released by Netflix itself. "Stranger Things" is getting a genuine exception.

The set comes in Special and Deluxe editions, both available in Blu-ray and 4K UHD, with the Deluxe version adding a 148-page artbook, a Hellfire Club patch, double-sided season posters, and a fold-out map of Hawkins. Prices run from roughly $180 to $270 depending on format, according to Arrow's own listings, making this a premium collector's item. Matt and Ross Duffer, who created the series, discussed the release as something they'd wanted since the beginning, saying they'd always dreamed the show could be owned in its entirety, not just as a collection but as a way to preserve it for decades. In other words, a throwback to an earlier time, much like the show itself.

The release comes seven months after the show's divisive series finale, which closed out the story on New Year's Eve to record streaming numbers even as some fans argued the ending rushed its goodbyes. A physical release doesn't change any of that, but it does makes the show permanent regardless of what Netflix decides to do with its catalog down the line, a real concern in an era when shows routinely vanish from streamers without warning. The franchise isn't done expanding beyond the original series either. An animated spinoff, "Stranger Things: Tales From '85," premiered on Netflix earlier this year, and the Tony-winning stage play "Stranger Things: The First Shadow" is still running, with a filmed version expected on the streamer down the line.

Whether this becomes a one-off or a new strategy for Netflix's biggest hits is still an open question. Arrow and Netflix haven't announced plans for anything else, and a release this elaborate likely only makes sense for a show with "Stranger Things" numbers behind it. For now, it's a rare case of a streaming giant treating one of its own shows like a permanent cultural icon.

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1989 Rock Anthem, Written While on Tour, Remains a Classic Protest Song 37 Years Later

Fri, 07/03/2026 - 10:41am

In the late 1980s, political and social tensions in the United States inspired Neil Young to write "Rockin' in the Free World," a protest anthem that was released months before a major historical event.

In February 1989, Young was on tour with his band The Restless as the world was going through a major transition from the U.S.A. all the way to Europe. They had learned that the planned concert tour to the Soviet Union was cancelled, with Young and guitarist Frank “Poncho” Sampedro soon penning the hit track because of it.

“Russia was getting Neil Young and Crazy Horse and we were getting the Russian ballet. All of a sudden, whoever was promoting the deal, a guy in Russia, took the money and split," said Sampedro in a 2018 Mojointerview. "We were all bummed, and I looked at him and said, ‘Man I guess we’re just gonna have to keep on rockin’ in the free world. He said, ‘Well, Poncho, that’s a good line. I’m gonna use that if you don’t mind.’”

The guitarist added that they had a few good songs already made, but needed a rocker track. Young and the band checked into a hotel in Portland, with Sampedro urging the singer to lock himself in his room and use the current political turmoil as inspiration for lyrics.

"I said, 'Look man, tonight, get in your room, think about all this stuff that's going down - the Ayatollah, all the stuff in Afghanistan, all these wars breaking out, all the problems in America… "Keep On rockin in the free world," you got that: put something together man, let's have a song!' And the next morning, we got on the bus to leave and he says, 'OK, I did it!'" said the guitarist.

While many see "Rockin' in the Free World" as an American anthem, its lyrics dive deeper as a critical lens on what was going on in the world. Young criticized the George H.W. Bush administration, using his "thousand points of light" remark, the state of homelessness, and the controversial novel The Satanic Verses. Not to mention the Soviet–Afghan War had ended, with the Gulf War on the brink of starting.

"Rockin' in the Free World" was soon released in November of 1989, just months before the fall of the Berlin Wall. While the track didn't chart on the Billboard Hot 100, it did find success at No. 2 on the Mainstream Rock Tracks chart. It was even once ranked on Rolling Stone's "Greatest Songs of All Time" list.

Tom Cruise Turns 64: A Look at His Most Dangerous Stunts That Nearly Cost Him His Life

Fri, 07/03/2026 - 10:39am

Tom Cruise is turning 64 today, and if his track record is any indication, he's not slowing down anytime soon.

With more than four decades in Hollywood, Cruise has built his reputation on refusing to let a stunt double do the work. From hanging off a real plane to jumping a motorcycle off a cliff, the actor has made a habit of pushing stunts to the edge. Here's a look back at some of the moments that came closest to ending it all.

The Sword Fight That Almost Cost a Head

During The Last Samurai in 2003, Cruise was filming a mounted sword battle with Emmy-winner Hiroyuki Sanada when Sanada's mechanical horse failed to stop on cue and slammed into Cruise's. Sanada was mid-swing with a blunted but very real blade, and the blow came within an inch of Cruise's throat. Cruise later credited Sanada's reflexes with saving him.

The Death-Defying Cliff Jump

For Dead Reckoning in 2023, Cruise rode a motorcycle off a cliff edge with no cables or safety wires, then had roughly six seconds to separate from the bike and deploy his parachute. The stunt took a full year of training to prepare and was filmed on the very first day of production. The risk was considered so high that the studio wanted it out of the way before investing further in the film, in case Cruise was injured or worse, died.

The World Record-Breaking Fire Jump

In The Final Reckoning in 2025, Cruise leapt from a helicopter 16 times at over 7,500 feet with a parachute pre-soaked in fuel and set on fire, cutting himself free before deploying a backup chute. "If [the parachute] is twisted while it's burning, I'm going to be spinning and burning," Cruise said in a behind-the-scenes video released. "I have to kick it out of the twist and then ignite within 10 seconds." Guinness World Records awarded him the title of most parachute jumps by an individual on June 4, 2025.

Hobby Lobby's 'Beautiful' Boho Side Table Is So Charming, Shoppers Keep Snatching It Up

Fri, 07/03/2026 - 10:30am

If you're on the hunt for a home upgrade to kick off your seasonal refresh, Hobby Lobby is the perfect place to shop. Known for its wide range of arts and crafts essentials, the popular retailer also offers a stunning collection of home and garden decor. From everyday essentials to practical dual-purpose accents, it doesn't take much effort to find a piece that elevates your space.

Take Hobby Lobby's Lisa Tray Side Table, for example. This elegant, farmhouse-style piece boasts a warm, inviting look that blends effortlessly with both contemporary and boho-inspired themes. Retailing for just $39 and designed to bring both style and function to any room, it's exactly the kind of home decor find that reminds us why it's always worth stopping by Hobby Lobby before shopping anywhere else.

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Lisa Tray Side Table, $39.19 at Hobby Lobby

Hobby Lobby

Sporting a simplistic yet gorgeous design, the Lisa Tray Side Table features a round wooden tray that fits snugly inside a circular metal frame that extends into a narrow set of legs below. Combining a warm natural wood finish with industrial metal accents, it offers a beautiful balance of contrasting textures for a look that's both stylish and timeless.

Best of all, it's currently on sale. Normally priced at $55.99, snagging this table for 30 percent off feels like an absolute no-brainer. Measuring 19.75 inches tall with a 17.75-inch diameter, it's spacious yet compact, making it a great fit as a living room side table, bedroom nightstand, plant stand or decorative office accent.

"This is the third one I have owned," one shopper shared in a review. They also praised the table's "beautiful" wooden surface, which pairs perfectly with the black metal frame to create a sturdy, eye-catching design.

Hobby Lobby

With minimal assembly required and all the tools included in the box, there really isn't much standing in the way of bringing one home and putting it to use right away. Even better, its durable design makes it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, giving you even more creative freedom when deciding where it belongs. Place it on a back patio to display outdoor plants or tuck it into an entryway corner to hold your phone, keys and wallet when you walk in the door.

If you're already thinking about the perfect spot for this elegant boho side table, don't miss your chance to secure one (or two) while the price is still right. With summer in full swing, it's the perfect chance to take advantage of seasonal deals, and this warm, inviting piece is just begging to help you kick off your refresh in style.

While you're there, don't forget to take a look at Hobby Lobby's Stunning 4-Tiered Mandala Shelf and stylish Oversized Acacia Wood Serving Board.

‘Wicked: For Good’ Is Heading to Netflix, but There’s a Disappointing Catch for the ‘Wicked’ Universe

Fri, 07/03/2026 - 10:22am

In some exciting news for families, Wicked: For Good will have a streaming home starting this month. The Wicked sequel is heading to Netflix on July 20, 2026.

The news that the Universal Pictures movie was heading to Netflix was certainly a surprise for many. It’s linked to the new deal between Universal and the streaming giant, which will see all Universal movies get a second streaming run on Netflix for the time being.

There is a catch. The first Wicked movie is not heading to Netflix. That will remain on Peacock for now, and it does appear to be somewhat of an oversight. However, it’s due to the timing of the deal being made, which didn’t include any previous movies, including Wicked. So, viewers who want the full experience will need to get both Peacock and Netflix.

It’s likely why many fans of multiple TV shows and movies are saying that DVDs and Blu-Rays are still good to have. By owning the physical media, there’s no need to worry about shows and movies leaving platforms. It came up just recently when Netflix lost Gilmore Girls — although that is now on Prime Video.

This is not the first movie to drop on Netflix after an initial run on Peacock. Jurassic World: Rebirth and How to Train Your Dragon (the live-action version) have recently been added to the streamer. The deal itself pertains to 2027 live-action releases, though.

There is hope that the entire Wicked franchise could end up on Netflix in the near future. If Universal and Netflix realize the success of the second movie, they may enter into a deal for this specific release.

Wicked: For Good was the follow-up to the first movie, picking up directly after the events that saw Elphaba exiled in the Ozian Forest. Glinda tries to make the most of her time in the Emerald City, but she knows the truth, and it’s not always easy living with that. As an angry mob rises against the Wicked Witch of the West, Glinda has to decide which side of this fight she is on.

Meanwhile, Elphaba tries to help the people around her, but much of her other magic backfires. At the same time, she pushes hard to reveal the truth about the Wizard, but as she does that, she finds out more and more of the dark secrets this Wizard is hiding, as well as a little about her own origins.

Wicked will remain on Peacock, but Wicked: For Good will head to Netflix on July 20, 2026.

Kate Middleton's Lapis Lazuli Earrings Have A Hidden Meaning Connected To Her Title Of Princess of Wales

Fri, 07/03/2026 - 10:13am

Kate Middleton looked every inch the princess when she stepped out at Wimbledon yesterday, glowing in a perwinkle blue linen suit by Gabriella Hearst and a white tank top by H&M, and beaming from ear to ear.

Kate rarely misses the annual tennis tournament but this time there was a special surprise in store for fans who had camped out overnight outside the stadium.

Every year people join the infamous queue at Wimbledon with the passionate hope they might just be lucky enough to score one of the coveted tickets—and yesterday they got a shock when the Princess of Wales visited the line to check in on them!

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Not only did Kate greet people who had been waiting but she was also put to work taking card payments for tickets for those first in line.

Kate wore her hair in a ponytail, showing off her gorgeous new jewelry: a £170 ($227) pair of earrings set with lapis lazuli and moonstone.

It turns out the deep blue lapis lazuli gemstones have a special connection to Kate's title of Princess of Wales.

Lapis lazuli has long been associated with royalty, and has been found in ancient Egyptian burial sites that date back more than five thousand years—preceding the famous pyramid tombs. Egyptian queen Cleopatra even used ground-up lapis for her startling blue eyeshadow.

In the 1600s lapis gained popularity among Dutch Renaissance painters who ground the gemstone to make the expensive and vibrant paint color of ultramarine, the most famous example featuring in Johannes Vermeer's masterpiece 'Girl With a Pearl Earring.'

Meanwhile moonstone is known as the stone of new beginnings. This moment in time is a poignant one for Kate—earlier this week she completed the National Three Peaks Challenge, ascending the highest mountains in Scotland, England, and Wales in 24 hours following her diagnosis with and recovery from cancer.

In a moving Instagram post she wrote, "Cancer doesn’t just affect the body. It changes how you think and feel and profoundly affects every aspect of life. I know this personally, and that the journey through and beyond treatment requires more than medicine alone."

She went on, "I have taken on the National Three Peaks Challenge, not simply as a physical endeavour but as a chance to explore life beyond diagnosis and to give something back."

The challenge was undertaken in support of the Royal Marsden Cancer Charity.

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In 2024 following a period in which she had mostly disappeared from public life in order to receive treatment for cancer, Kate made a rare appearance in the Royal Box at Wimbledon and was given a standing ovation by the crowds.

She was accompanied by her daughter Princess Charlotte and her sister Pippa Middleton.

This year Kate was spotted sitting alongside Scottish tennis legend Andy Murray at a match on No. 1 court.

Kate is the patron of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, where Wimbledon has been held since its inception in 1877. The role that was passed on to her by Queen Elizabeth II when the monarch was beginning to relinquish some of her duties to younger members of the royal family.

This means that Kate has the honor of presenting trophies to the winners at the end of the tournament.

The Princess of Wales is an avid tennis fan and had a tennis court installed at her and Prince William's country retreat of Anmer Hall on the Sandringham Estate.

Next, Meghan Markle Prayed For These Two Things On Her First Visit To Princess Diana’s Grave

We Asked 4 Librarians, ‘What’s the Best Murakami Book?’—And They All Said the Same Thing

Fri, 07/03/2026 - 10:13am

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There are so many books to choose from when picking your next read, so why not leave it to the experts? Parade consulted four librarians about the best Haruki Murakami book to read, and they all picked the same one. It was a tall task to get them to narrow things down, because the iconic author has so many amazing stories under his belt. But if you're new to his work, or you're just looking for a widely-acclaimed option to check out, it's worth starting with the one these librarians picked.

And when you're done with that choice, we also asked those four librarians, along with several others, what Murakami books people should read next. There are nine total options on this list, so your TBR can be fully stocked with the works by this legendary Japanese author.

That barely scratches the surface of his acclaimed body of work, though. According to Murakami's website, the now 77-year-old author published his first book in 1979 and has been writing ever since—exploring all kinds of genres ranging from fiction and nonfiction to memoir. His work, primarily written in Japanese, has been translated into over 50 languages so people all around the globe can enjoy his stories. And you can partake in them yourself when you explore these librarian-picked masterpieces of his.

Who Is Haruki Murakami?

Per his website, Murakami was born in Kyoto, Japan, in 1949 and initially ran a jazz bar out of college with his wife. He then began his writing career in his late 20s and has continued to publish his work for decades.

As Mitzi Castle wrote for the University of Liverpool's Department of English, Murakami is best known for his exploration of magical realism in his books—a genre known for including fantastical elements in an otherwise grounded, realistic story. Castle noted that Murakami often combats the "Western" notion of logic, with characters that "do things without reasoning or explanation, emulating a more truthful human psyche."

The prolific writer recently told The New York Times that he doesn't necessarily go into a book with a specific idea.

"I don't have any plan, I'm just writing, and while I'm writing, strange things happen very naturally, very automatically," Murakami said. He added, "Every time I write fiction, I go into another world... I see so many things there, then I come back to this real world and I write it down."

How Many Books Has Haruki Murakami Written?

Per his website, Murakami has 14 novels, six short story books and five nonfiction books for a total of 25 books. And he just published his newest novel, The Tale of KAHO, on July 3.

The Best Murakami Book, According to 4 Librarians'Norwegian Wood' by Haruki Murakami, translated by Jay Rubin

Amazon

The best Murakami book chosen by the librarians Parade spoke with was Norwegian Wood, which was originally published in 1987. Ted, Christina and Heidi, three librarians from the Worcester Public Library in Massachusetts, had a difficult time narrowing down Murakami's works. But ultimately they all agreed on Norwegian Wood, because they liked "the themes of coming of age and the feeling of nostalgia it brought."

They're joined in their recommendation by Aimee Harris, Information & Digital Services Manager at the Hoboken Public Library.

"If you are looking for a work by Murakami that is more grounded in reality, then Norwegian Wood will be an excellent choice," says Harris, also calling the story "nostalgic."

According to The Georgetown Voice, the novel is named after The Beatles' song, which is included at the novel's start before the narrator begins his recollection of his Tokyo university days in the 1960s. PerVogue, the novel exploded into the pop culture sphere upon publication, selling four million copies in Japan and later propelling the author to international acclaim.

According to The Guardian, Norwegian Wood is considered to be Murakami's "most accessible novel," making it a great entry point for readers who are new to the Murakami universe. At its core, the story explores themes of growing up, tragedy, grief and love—with the main character grappling with feelings for two very different young women in the wake of his best friend's death.

Harris notes that the book was inspired by one of Murakami's own short stories called "Firefly," published in the Blind Willow, Sleeping Woman, a collection. And the book was later adapted into a Japanese-language film, released in 2010. So you can check out the short story and the movie if you like Norwegian Wood and want to keep those vibes going.

8 Other Murakami Books Librarians Recommend1. 'A Wild Sheep Chase' (1989)

Amazon

The same librarians who deemed Norwegian Wood the best Murakami book also recommended this to readers.

It's about an advertising executive who unwittingly includes a sheep image in an ad. The image then piques the interest of a menacing man who wants to find the sheep at all costs.

Ted, Christina and Heidi from the Worcester Public Library say that it's "everything you love about Murakami: A little mystery and weirdness, plenty of magical realism and engrossing characters."

2. 'The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle' (1997)

Amazon

The Worcester librarians also recommend this "mind-bending and literary" novel that follows a man looking for his wife and cat in a surreal Tokyo netherworld.

Harris likes this one as well, saying that it "may appeal to fans of mystery thrillers" and "will also resonate with those looking for strong character-driven works."

3. 'Kafka on the Shore' (2005)

Amazon

Another Murakami book recommended by Harris is this novel about "a teenage runaway and an elderly man whose stories intertwine in alternating chapters," she says. The librarian calls it "one of Murakami’s most popular works" and "a modern classic of Japanese literature."

4. '1Q84' (2011)

Amazon

Harris also likes this book, which was inspired by George Orwell's1984.

"The story opens on a woman in 1984 Tokyo, who believes she may be in a parallel world," says Harris, adding, "This is a great pick for those looking for a fantasy thriller with a bit of romance."

5. 'The Strange Library' (2014)

Amazon

This short story follows an unlikely trio attempting to escape a nightmare-fueled library. It comes recommended by Kaite Stover, the Kansas City Public Library's Director of Readers’ Services, who calls it "a challenging puzzle of a read."

She adds, "I like this title by Murakami not because it takes place in a library of biblio-horrors... but for its off-beat design and illustrations."

6. 'What I Talk About When I Talk About Running' (2008)

Amazon

This memoir about Murakami's running journey comes recommended by two librarians: Karen Kline, a National Board Certified teacher-librarian, and Ramon Garcia, Undergraduate Instruction and Engagement Librarian at Southern Methodist University, which is currently featuring Murakami in an exhibit at the Fondren Library.

"Murakami understands what it takes to push oneself to your physical, mental and emotional limits," says Garcia. "The lessons he's learned through his long and storied path through running are sure to inspire readers, runner or not."

Kline adds, "This memoir is a departure from most of Murakami's work, and it's not to be missed by true fans."

7. 'After Dark' (2007)

Amazon

Matthew Galloway, a Collection Development Librarian and "Buyer" at Anythink Libraries, likes this novel "for its tense, creepy vibe." It follows 19-year-old Mari, who goes on an odyssey through Tokyo after dark.

"It's the language, the surreality and these sparking character moments that coalesce into this impossible-to-put-down read," the librarian shares.

8. 'End of the World and Hard-Boiled Wonderland' (2024 edition)

Amazon

Galloway says this is a story that Murakami "keeps returning to," which is why this one is a new translation with a different title than the original English translation, Hard-Boiled Wonderland and the End of the World (1991). And it was originally inspired by his own novella, "The City and Its Uncertain Walls."

As the librarian describes, "half the book [is] a techno-thriller about a man whose brain was altered to protect a scientific experiment and the other half [explores] a surreal world." If you like the concept, you can explore the different versions and pick your favorite for yourself.

Up Next:

Sources:

Ted, Christina and Heidi are librarians at the Worcester Public Library.
Aimee Harris is the Information & Digital Services Manager at Hoboken Public Library.
Kaite Stover is Kansas City Public Library's Director of Readers’ Services.
Ramon Garcia is an Undergraduate Instruction and Engagement Librarian at SMU.
Karen Kline is a National Board Certified teacher-librarian.
Matthew Galloway is a Collection Development Librarian and “Buyer” at Anythink Libraries.

The Throwback MTV Music Video That Fits Your Vibe, Based on Birth Date

Fri, 07/03/2026 - 10:13am

Anyone who remembers MTV’s debut in 1981 would concur that music videos changed the pop music game. Top-charting singles from the ‘80s and ‘90s had to have an accompanying music video, and as the art form evolved, budgets and technology soared, as well. Over-the-top productions garnered tons of buzz, but even the lowest-tech clips (think: Sinéad O'Connor’s "Nothing Compares 2 U") still made a major impression. Looking back, music videos across genres and eras are sure to fuel memories galore. But which classic music video best matches your vibe? Look to your birth date, which speaks to your point of view and personality, for intel on the nostalgic clip that best matches you.

Each Birth Date as a Throwback MTV Music Video

Read on to learn which classic MTV music video best reflects your personality, based on your birth date.

Born on the 1st, 10th, 19th, or 28th: “Express Yourself” by Madonna

You were born on a date associated with the sun, the luminary that rules self-image, confidence, and purpose in astrology. You exude glamour by standing strong in your sense of self, being a bit theatrical, playful, charming, and of course lighting up every room you walk into—just like Madonna, the Queen of Pop born under sun-ruled Leo. While it’s hard to zero in on just one of her many iconic music videos, 1989’s “Express Yourself” is probably the best bet. Directed by David Fincher and inspired by the Fritz Lang classic Metropolis, it was the most expensive music video made up to that point. Madonna’s glamorous boss vibes paired with the song’s message about being direct about your needs reflects your M.O.

Born on the 2nd, 11th, 20th, or 29th: “Love Will Never Do (Without You)” by Janet Jackson

You were born on a day that’s connected to the moon, which rules intuition, instincts, and emotions. In turn, you’re deeply in tune with your heart, intuitive, and sentimental. The lighthearted, sensual, romantic tone of the music video for Jackson's 1990 hit single from Janet Jackson's Rhythm Nation 1814 matches your emotionally expressive personality. Shot in simple black-and-white and directed by photographer Herb Ritts, the video showcases Jackson looking relaxed, airy, and sensual while singing about a past love that others will never live up to—a concept you can certainly relate to.

COSMIC: 4 Zodiac Signs Feeling a "Fireworks-Level" Shift This July 4, Thanks to Mars–Uranus Energy

Born on the 3rd, 12th, 21st, or 30th: “I'd Do Anything for Love (But I Won't Do That)” by Meat Loaf

As someone whose birth date reduces down to three, a number ruled by Jupiter, the most gigantic planet in our solar system that oversees abundance, expansion, and good fortune, you believe in going big or going home, which is something that can probably also be said for this over-the-top production that was released in 1993. Based on Phantom of the Opera and Beauty & the Beast, the Michael Bay-directed video was shot at Greystone Mansion in Beverly Hills, and Meat Loaf’s involved makeup took two hours to apply. The video’s clear commitment to theatrics and making the most of the art form is something you, as someone who tends to be—or at least appreciate—maximalism, can get behind.

Born on the 4th, 13th, 22nd, or 31st: "Sledgehammer" by Peter Gabriel

You came into the world on a day that reduces down to four, which is associated with Uranus, the planet of futuristic, forward thinking, electricity, and electrifying, sudden change. You have a penchant for experimentation, quirkiness, and innovation, all of which are themes that come to mind when reminiscing about Peter Gabriel’s 1986 inventive, humorous music video for his hit single “Sledgehammer.” Shot frame by frame, Gabriel put in hours and hours of work to achieve the wacky, highly rewatchable finished product. It’s no wonder the video smashed records by claiming 9 MTV Video Music Awards in 1987.

NEXT: Why You Haven't Met Your Soulmate Yet, Based on Your Birth Month

Born on the 5th, 14th, or 23rd: “Take On Me” by A-ha

You were born on a day that reduces down to the number five, your numerological planetary ruler is Mercury, the planet of technology, transportation, storytelling, and cerebral energy. You’re innately an information-gatherer, a lifelong learner, a supercommunicator, and potentially also quite tech-savvy. A-ha’s 1985 video (the second they made for the track, which is very Mercurial in and of itself) best matches your personality, given its unique look, storytelling prowess, and the technology behind it. Utilizing a process called rotoscoping, in which live-action footage is traced using a frame-by-frame process that gives characters realistic movements, “Take on Me” became a global smash hit.

Born on the 6th, 15th, or 24th: “I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)” by Whitney Houston

You were born with the influence of Venus, the planet of romance, beauty, art, and music—all themes you value and might even prioritize in life. The upbeat, colorful vibes of Whitney Houston’s legendary 1987 music video for the lead single from Whitney reflect your own rose-colored glasses-wearing M.O. Hearing the song, as well as seeing Houston dance on the set featuring techno-rainbow hues and fireworks, makes it tough to sit still and not get up and groove yourself, and the sunny, bubbly, romantic feel of the video mirrors your heartfelt approach to life.

Born on the 7th, 16th, or 25th: “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” by Eurythmics

Your birth date reduces down to seven, a number aligned with Neptune, the planet named for the God of the Sea that rules mysticism, spirituality, and illusion. In turn, you’re dreamy, empathic, imaginative, a fan of escapism, and emotionally astute. You value illusion and creativity, both of which inform the 1983 mega-hit video for “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” by the Eurythmics. Featuring visuals that Annie Lennox described as "strong and powerful,” anyone who caught heavy airplay of the clip on MTV probably feels as though it was forever burned into their brain. If anyone can respect and appreciate that level of artistry, it’s you.

FUN: Which Country Song Best Matches Your Personality, Based on Your Birth Month

Born on the 8th, 17th, or 26th: “Flashdance... What a Feeling” by Irene Cara

You were born on a date that reduces down to the number eight, which means you’re responsible, mature, and hardworking, because eight is associated with Saturn, the taskmaster planet. The video for Irene Cara’s hit “Flashdance... What a Feeling” from the movie Flashdance was released in 1983 and sparks nostalgia for early MTV viewers who might’ve seen the video ahead of making a trip to the theater to check out the feature film. Lyrics like “Being's believing (being's believing)...Take your passion (what a feeling) And make it happen (being's believing)” reflect your ambitious, industrious, goal-oriented nature.

READ: The 4 Zodiac Signs Most Likely to Be Cancers' Soulmate

Born on the 9th, 18th, or 27th: “Freedom ‘90” by George Michael

If your birth date reduces down to nine, you’re passionate, competitive, impulsive, driven, and bold, as you were born on a day associated with Mars, the planet of energy, sex, and action. Despite not appearing in the 1990 clip himself, George Michael created a wildly popular, sexy video featuring a cast of supermodels like Cindy Crawford, Naomi Campbell, Linda Evangelista, Christy Turlington, and Tatjana Patitz. Directed by David Fincher, the clip features Crawford lip-synching in a steamy bathtub and Michael’s iconic leather jacket catching on fire—visuals that feel truly Mars-fueled.

UP NEXT:

Marshalls' Retro-Style Platter Is Perfect for Serving Hot Dogs on the 4th of July

Fri, 07/03/2026 - 10:10am

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There are certain things that are just so distinctly #American. Football? Check. Ice-cold beer on a Friday night? Check. Serving up a platter of hot dogs on the Fourth of July? Anddddd, check! If you are looking for the perfect piece of servingware to elevate your Independence Day hot dog display, this option available right now at Marshalls will do just the trick.

Godinger's Retro Hot Dog Serving Platter is too cute for words. While it usually retails for $20, Marshalls is selling the platter for just $12.99, saving you $7. This is such a bargain. You can use it every Fourth of July for years to come.

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Godinger Retro Hot Dog Serving Platter, $12.99 at Marshalls

Marshalls

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Featuring an oval shape and measuring 13 inches wide, eight inches long and 1.5 inches high, this serving plate is a generous size. You can load it up with hot dogs and buns, leveling up your Fourth of July barbecue presentation in the cutest way possible. This piece is bound to earn you plenty of compliments!

The design itself is the big appeal of this platter. Donning the words "All American Hot Dog" as the focal point, with smaller text that reads "Mustard. Relish. Onions," this serving piece also has a retro-inspired illustration of a classic hot dog in a fluffy bun, and, of course, topped with a line of delicious mustard. The sleek black border of the platter adds some welcome contrast. It brings to mind old-school American diner plates.

You can order this charming vintage-inspired hot dog serving platter on Marshalls.com or in select Marshalls stores.

If you are interested in other fun Marshalls finds, be sure to check out this four-piece earthenware pasta bowl set that is full of English countryside charm, this cutesy gingham three-piece comforter set that feels like a breath of fresh country air, this two-pack of washable rugs that comes in the most darling cottagecore print or this pretty three-piece floral quilt set that's giving major storybook energy in the best way.

Walmart's 'Sturdy' $49 Portable Folding Table Is Perfect for Camping, Grilling and Summer Picnics

Fri, 07/03/2026 - 10:05am

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Grilling season is officially in full swing. If you're planning to host some outdoor barbecues or picnics this summer, Walmart has a new dining deal that you won't want to miss out on. The Yacona Folding Camping Table is lightweight, portable, and easy to unfold while on the go, and it's currently on sale for over 20% off.

Originally $63, the collapsible table is currently marked down to just $49 right now. It features a sturdy tabletop with a detachable mesh storage basket underneath, offering additional space for snacks, tableware, grilling tools, or camping gear.

Yacona Folding Camping Table, $49 (was $63) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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Measuring 47.2 inches long, 22 inches wide, and 37.8 inches high and weighing just 12 pounds, the table is durable and spacious yet lightweight enough to easily transport from place to place. The top is waterproof, rust-resistant, and designed to hold up to 150 pounds, while the X-shaped base is made to stay stable on all different types of terrain, including grass, sand, and uneven surfaces.

The table can also be adjusted to different heights ranging from 25.2 inches to 37.8 inches high, allowing you to customize the look based on your needs. It comes with a matching carry bag, making it easy to collapse and store, whether you're bringing it with you on a camping or beach trip or stashing it in a closet or shed.

Multiple Walmart shoppers praised the multifunctional table for its quality and conveniently foldable design. One reviewer said it's" "very sturdy while being lightweight and portable," while another said it's "great for camping." Several buyers also called it "well-made and versatile," with one noting that it's a "must-have for campers and grillers."

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Get ready for some al fresco dining with this cute and practical camping table. It's spacious, portable, and easy to unfold and set up in just a matter of minutes. Grab one while it's still on sale for under $50 at Walmart.

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Travis Kelce Responds to Viral Fake AI Photo From His Rumored Wedding to Taylor Swift

Fri, 07/03/2026 - 9:55am

The Taylor Swiftand Travis Kelce wedding frenzy has hit a fever pitch. Constant buzz about who will attend their supposed Madison Square Garden July 4th weekend nuptials, what the decor will look like, what she’ll wear, what he’ll wear, what the bridesmaids will wear, the menu, the logistics, the schedule, the…well, you get it, is everywhere. And now one funny, famous friend has taken the speculation to a whole new level.

Comedian Bert Kreischer recently posted an AI-generated photo on Instagram of himself with the happy newlyweds—and Kelce was quick to respond.

The wedding-day fake features Taylor in a white lace dress, holding a bouquet, and Travis in a dapper tux. Kreicher is in the middle of the pair, with Swift’s hand gently patting his shoulder.

Of course, the pic isn't real. Along with the wedding portrait, Kreischer also includes the caption, “The moment @jason.kelce called me over to the bar for a shot.”

If you’re wondering why he referenced Jason Kelce and not Travis, it’s all in the eyes. As AI Bert poses with the couple of the hour (or rather, century), he looks wistfully off to the side. And that seems to be “the moment” Travis’s big brother Jason fictitiously summoned him to the MSG wedding bar.

View this post on Instagram How did Travis Kelce respond to the fake AI image of his wedding to Taylor Swift?

With the wedding hoopla in full swing (or not, since they haven’t actually announced anything official yet), chances are that Travis is pretty busy. While he still had time to comment on his buddy Bert’s post, he didn’t write a mini monologue. Instead, Kelce simply responds with a row of four laughing/crying emojis.

What did fans think of Bert Kreischer’s Taylor Swift-Travis Kelce wedding post?

Fans always have something to say. One replied to Kelce with, “Dude, get ready for your wedding, what u doing here liking post! Don’t make Tay Tay wait,” and another wrote, “Glad they have security.”

Comedian Tom Coverly chimed in with, “Who is the girl?” Podcast host Gregg Hughes added, “I get it, you’re making believe you’re the best man. Hilarious,” and one commenter replied, “Naw he’s marrying Travis and Taylor is a bridesmaid.”

And then there were others who pointed out the obvious: “We know this is AI because you’re wearing a shirt”, “We know this is AI because Taylor's allowing him to touch her,” and “That would not be Taylor’s dress.”

Dolly Parton Reacted to Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's $2M Donation With a Heartfelt Wedding Message

Fri, 07/03/2026 - 9:53am

Dolly Parton shared an incredible wedding message for Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce after their donation of $2 million to her Imagination Library.

The country music legend, 80, may be known as a musical master thanks to her iconic songs like “Jolene” and “I Will Always Love You,” but she’s also a voracious reader. Her Imagination Library is a book-gifting program that mails free, high-quality books to children from birth to age 5, regardless of their family’s income. Ahead of Swift and Kelce's wedding this weekend, Parton took to social media to share a message of gratitude in response to the couple's $2 million donation to her reading program.

"I was just told that you two are making a donation of $2 million to my Imagination Library. Thank you, thank you, thank you! I'm blown away and overjoyed with that gratitude. It's evident that the two of you have made giving back a part of your lives," Parton said. "So hey, when you have your firstborn, can I have it? Because that's gonna be one special baby!"

In typical Dolly fashion, she concluded by belting out "I will always love you."

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Dolly Parton’s Pick for a Book She’d Bring to a Desert Island Isn’t Your Typical Beach Read

Dolly Parton reads around 50 books per year, and the country music legend recently opened up about some of her favorite reads.

Several years ago, the “Queen of Country” made an appearance on Jenna Bush Hager's podcast, Open Book With Jenna, and opened up about some of her favorite books. However, Parton’s pick for the book she’d like to have with her if she found herself trapped on a desert island isn’t your typical beach read.

“If you were deserted on a desert island, which book would you take with you?” Bush Hager asks Parton.

“I better take the Bible, ’cause if I’m stranded on an island, I figure I may not get off of there, and I might wanna do some crammin’,” Parton says in the response, laughing and smiling.

Check out the video below to hear about some of Parton’s favorites, and the celebrity book club she follows diligently.

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While her pick may be unexpected, the Christian bible is actually the best-selling book of all time, according to the Guinness Book of World Records. It’s safe to say that Parton isn’t alone in her idea!

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library Keeps Expanding

Back in April, Indiana first lady Maureen Braun announced that Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library of Indiana will provide Indiana children under the age of 5 with free books each month, WTHR reported.

“Receiving books from Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library fosters a love of reading and creates meaningful family memories to last a lifetime. Early childhood literacy has a profound impact on Hoosier kids as they grow, and Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library of Indiana is helping to build strong foundations for young Hoosiers,” Braun said.

On Wednesday, April 1, Braun shared a video stating that the program, which mails age-appropriate books to children each month from birth to age 5 for free, is available in all 92 counties in the state.

Check out the announcement below in this video:

Travis Kelce to Drop Podcast Episode With Prince William on Same Day as Reported Wedding to Taylor Swift

Fri, 07/03/2026 - 9:50am

Travis Kelce just threw a major curveball amid the buzz of his supposed wedding to Taylor Swifton Friday night.

Just hours before the the NFL player and groom-to-be is slated to say "I do," he announced on his podcast, "New Heights" with brother Jason Kelce, that Prince William will be on their latest episode, which will drop at noon.

The teaser clip, shared the morning of the wedding showed a hyped-up Jason introducing the future king — including all of his royal titles — before Prince William appears on the screen.

"That is quite an intro guys, amazing," Prince William said.

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The timing of the episode is particularly notable due to the absolute whirlwind within the news cycle that Travis and Swift's wedding has caused.

While it has been confirmed by People that Prince William will not be attending couple's massive celebration to be held at New York's Madison Square Garden,speculation of his attendance definitely brewed as he cheekily told reporters in June that he was "hoping" for an invitation.

Besides, festivities for the event are well underway as multiple SUVs were seen pulling into MSG for what has been reported as the couple's rehearsal dinner, per Page Six. However, while a major celebration is definitely in the works for Friday night, the outlet also reported that the singer and NFL player are already married.

Adding to the speculation, Swift’s private jet reportedly made a series of stops last Sunday, touching down in Philadelphia — where Travis' dad, brother, and sister-in-law live — Tampa, Nashville, and New York City.

The royal's friendship, and perhaps fan-like energy, with Swift has been known for a while as he took his kids Prince George and Princess Charlotteto The Eras tour in 2024. William, though, may have been having more fun than his kids as video footage captured him letting loose and dancing to "Shake It Off."

Year's prior, Prince William was also was seen having a fun moment with the "Opalite" singer at Kensington Palace when they sang together on stage with Bon Jovi.

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Here’s Exactly What Happens to Your Blood Sugar When You Eat Dark Chocolate

Fri, 07/03/2026 - 9:50am

When you're trying to control your blood sugar, you may think sweets are off the table. Yet, the messages can get confusing. Dark chocolate is also praised as healthy—or at least a healthier alternative to a standard candy bar or sugary lollipop. Can dark chocolate spike blood sugar or even lower it?

Registered dietitians like Johannah Katz, RD, frequently field questions about how foods like dark chocolate can affect blood sugar levels.

"After we eat carbohydrates, the body breaks them down into glucose, which enters the bloodstream," Katz, a dietitian from Consumer Health Digest, tells Parade. "Insulin then helps move that glucose into cells where it can be used for energy. Healthy blood sugar regulation matters because both high and low blood sugar can affect how we feel and, over time, how the body functions."

In fact, a quick spike in blood sugar, like from a vending machine candy bar, can be a sneaky energy vampire.

"Blood sugar affects energy because glucose is one of the body’s most readily available fuels," Katz explains. "When blood sugar is stable, people often feel steadier energy. When blood sugar rises quickly and then drops, some people may feel tired, shaky, hungry or have cravings."

What if that candy bar is dark chocolate? Or, what if you're eating a dark chocolate brownie or another treat? Dark chocolate can affect your blood sugar—so, here's exactly what happens to your blood sugar when you eat dark chocolate, according to three registered dietitians.

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Will Dark Chocolate Lower Your Blood Sugar?

Small amounts of dark chocolate may support improvements in blood sugar in the short- and long-term (or at least not spike it as quickly as candies and baked goods made with other types of chocolate or sweets).

Julia Zumpano, RD, a Cleveland Clinic registered dietitian, points to research crediting flavanols and flavonoids (compounds found in the cocoa plant) may lower the risk of developing diabetes and insulin resistance by:

Improving endothelial function (helps regulate inflammation, blood flow and immune system responses)
Altering the way your body metabolizes glucose
Lowering oxidative stress (an imbalance between cell-damaging free radicals and protective antioxidants)

Zumpano points out that the relationship between insulin resistance and endothelial function goes both ways. While these benefits compound over time, some studies show improvements in blood sugar levels within four weeks in rats with diabetes. In the immediate (as in, that day) term, dark chocolate may produce a smaller, more controlled increase in post-intake blood sugar than another sweet.

"The glycemic index of dark chocolate can range based on its cocoa content," states Dr. Matthew J. Landry, Ph.D., RDN, DipACLM, FAND, FAHA, an assistant professor at the University of California, Irvine. "It’s generally considered low—around 23–44."

For the unfamiliar, Dr. Landry explains that the glycemic index is a numerical scale (0-100) that ranks how rapidly foods with carbohydrates raise blood sugar after you eat them, compared to a reference food (pure glucose or white bread).

Still, it's important to look at the whole ingredient list and nutrition label. Katz says some foods with dark chocolate still pack added sugar. She points out that some research, including a 2022 study, found that sugar-free dark chocolate sweetened with stevia, erythritol and inulin triggered smaller post-meal blood sugar increases than regular dark chocolate. Still, longer-term studies are needed.

"I would not promise a dramatic same-day blood sugar benefit from eating dark chocolate," Katz says. "Dark chocolate is still a sweet food, and the response depends on the specific bar and portion. However, compared with a typical sugary candy bar, a small portion of higher-cocoa dark chocolate may have a gentler blood sugar impact because it often contains less added sugar and more cocoa solids."

Speaking of longer-term results, she adds that dark chocolate may improve
insulin sensitivity if consumed in small portions for months or years. She also points to research linking dark chocolate intake with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes.

A 2024 study in the British Medical Journal found that dark chocolate intake was associated with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes, but milk chocolate was not. However, Katz says it was observational, and scientists have yet to directly link eating dark chocolate to lower diabetes risk (or better diabetes management).

On that note, Dr. Landry suggests caution when evaluating research on dark chocolate's effects on blood sugar. Most studies aren't looking at people who actually consumed candy bars.

"Most short and long-term studies have examined cocoa flavanols, not dark chocolate intake," Dr. Landry states. "These are bioactive polyphenolic compounds found within cocoa."

Will Dark Chocolate Spike My Blood Sugar?

Dark chocolate can immediately raise blood sugar levels and contribute to long-term, chronic increases in them. It depends on how much (and, in the case of long-term risks, how often) you consume dark chocolate.

"In most cases, it would not cause any [short-term] harm unless overconsumed," Zumpano says.

For context, one serving is an ounce of dark chocolate with 70% cocoa. This portion size will net you between 7 and 13 grams of sugar. "Therefore, even dark chocolate provides sugar and carbs and can spike blood sugar if consumed consistently in greater amounts—more than 1 serving," Zumpano adds. "The percentage of cocoa influences the sugar content; 85-90% cocoa provides 3 to 7 grams of sugar per ounce."

For people with diabetes, she says an ounce of dark chocolate per day is unlikely to cause a huge spike if you're watching your sugar intake elsewhere. But overconsuming it can worsen glucose control over weeks, months and years, especially (but not only if) you have diabetes.

Zumpano adds that overconsuming dark chocolate regularly for months or years can also:

Lead to weight gain and increased body fat
Contribute to higher fasting blood glucose levels
Put you at a higher risk of prediabetes and type 2 diabetes
Increase your total and/or LDL cholesterol and triglycerides

"This may happen because dark chocolate is calorie-dense and contains high amounts of saturated fat," Zumpano says.

How Much Dark Chocolate Can I Eat per Day for Blood Sugar?

It depends on your overall diet and health. However, Zumpano says a little dark chocolate per day is unlikely to cause serious blood sugar issues if it's consumed as part of a balanced diet. In fact, you might even see improvements in blood sugar. "Eating about 20–30 grams (0.7–1 ounce) of high-cocoa dark chocolate daily may modestly improve insulin sensitivity, slightly lower fasting glucose and potentially reduce long-term diabetes risk, largely because of cocoa flavanols," she explains.

She notes the benefits appear real but are still relatively small, emphasizing, "They are most meaningful when dark chocolate is part of an overall healthy lifestyle rather than used as a treatment on its own."

Up Next:

Sources:

Johannah Katz, RD, a dietitian from Consumer Health Digest
Dr. Matthew J. Landry, Ph.D., RDN, DipACLM, FAND, FAHA, an assistant professor at the University of California, Irvine
Julia Zumpano, RD, a Cleveland Clinic registered dietitian
Use of dark chocolate for diabetic patients: a review of the literature and current evidence. Journal of Community Hospital Internal Medicine Perspectives.
Sugar-Free Dark Chocolate Consumption Results in Lower Blood Glucose in Adults With Diabetes. Nutrition and Metabolic Insights.
Chocolate intake and risk of type 2 diabetes: prospective cohort studies. British Medical Journal.

1975 Rock Song, Released by One of the ‘Best Rock Bands’ of All Time, Remains a Classic 51 Years Later

Fri, 07/03/2026 - 9:39am

More than five decades after its debut, "Sweet Emotion" continues to be one of the defining songs in rock music.

Released as a single on May 19, 1975, the track helped launch Aerosmith into mainstream success and remains one of the band's most recognizable recordings. Its lasting popularity comes as the legendary rock group continues to be recognized among the greatest bands in the genre, including being listed by Parade among the best rock bands of all time.

Originally featured on Aerosmith's third studio album, Toys in the Attic, "Sweet Emotion" became the band's breakthrough hit. The song reached No. 36 on the Billboard Hot 100, giving Aerosmith its first Top 40 single and opening the door to an impressive run of chart success throughout the remainder of the 1970s.

Written by Steven Tyler and Tom Hamilton, and produced by Jack Douglas, the song introduced many listeners to Aerosmith's blues-based hard rock style while showcasing creative studio techniques and memorable instrumentation.

Aerosmith US tour in 1975.

Photo by David Tan/Shinko Music/Getty Images

"Sweet Emotion" arrived at a key moment in Aerosmith's career. Although the band had already released two studio albums, the single gave the group its first major commercial breakthrough.

The success of the song also helped push Toys in the Attic into the Top 10, leading the band to re-release their earlier ballad, "Dream On." The second release eventually climbed to No. 6, becoming Aerosmith's biggest chart hit of the decade.

The song has continued to perform well long after its original release. It has sold more than three million digital downloads in the U.S. and has earned 3× Platinum certification from the Recording Industry Association of America.

Internationally, it also received Silver certification in the U.K. and Platinum certification in New Zealand, showing its appeal across generations of rock fans.

Critics have also praised the recording over the years. In 2004, Rolling Stone included "Sweet Emotion" on its list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time. The song later appeared again in the magazine's updated rankings, reinforcing its reputation as one of rock's enduring classics.

Its influence has reached beyond music as well. "Sweet Emotion" appeared during the memorable opening scene of the 1993 coming-of-age film Dazed and Confused, introducing the song to a younger audience. It was later featured in We're the Millers and included in promotional material for Pixar's Inside Out, helping the track remain familiar to new generations of listeners.

Behind the song's famous groove is a creative partnership that blended musical ideas with personal experiences inside the band.

Musically, the recording featured several unusual elements that helped set it apart. Tyler famously shook a packet of sugar because maracas were unavailable during the session, while Joe Perry used a talk box to create one of the most recognizable guitar sounds in classic rock. The introduction, driven by Hamilton's bassline and Perry's talk box, has become one of the song's defining moments.

The lyrics have long sparked discussion among fans. Many believed they reflected tension within the band during the mid-1970s. Tyler later explained that only part of the song drew inspiration from Joe Perry's first wife, Elyssa Perry.

According to Far Out Magazine, Tyler described the opening lyrics in his memoir, Walk This Way, as his "angry side talking" and said he had Elyssa in mind when writing the line, "Can't say baby where I'll be in a year," adding, "but it will be at least 1000 miles away from you!"

In 1991, the group released a remixed version to support its Pandora's Box collection, introducing the song to another generation of listeners.

Today, "Sweet Emotion" stands as one of Aerosmith's defining achievements. Formed in Boston in 1970, the band went on to become the best-selling American hard rock band of all time, selling more than 150 million records worldwide while earning multiple Grammy Awards, American Music Awards, MTV Video Music Awards and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

As "Sweet Emotion" reaches its 51st year, the song continues to represent the moment Aerosmith transformed from a promising rock act into one of the genre's biggest names.

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