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Patti LaBelle made her mark in the industry with timeless music, achieving her major breakthrough in the mid-’70s as part of the all-girl group LaBelle.

Thirty-four years ago, the iconic singer made a bold move that helped pave the way for her expansion into television, further showcasing her versatility as an artist.

Following the rise of the trio group, thanks to their hit song “Lady Marmalade,” she launched a solo career in the mid-’70s, sparking her global pop star status.

From chart-topping hits and a successful music career, Patti LaBelle explored opportunities beyond music.

Apart from Broadway performances, she had her first on-screen appearance as a guest in the PBS series American Playhouse.

This was followed by her big screen debut in the 1984 Academy Award-nominated film A Soldier's Story.

With the warm embrace of the public, the singer became a familiar presence on television, which prompted the sitcom A Different World to add her as part of their cast.

Patti LaBelle performs during 'Hollywood 100th Birthday' celebration on April 26, 1987

Bob Riha, Jr./Getty Images

Created by Bill Cosby as a spin-off of the hit TV program The Cosby Show, the NBC series enjoyed a successful run, airing for six years from 1987 to 1993.

On May 3, 1990, the award-winning singer was introduced as Adele Wayne, the protective mother of protagonist Dwayne Wayne, played by Kadeem Hardison.

Patti LaBelle joined the sitcom in Season 3, which featured unexpected iconic scenes, among which is the comedic rivalry with Diahann Carroll’s character, who played Whitley Gilbert-Wayne's socialite mother, Marion Gilbert Height.

On top of this, the "On My Own" hitmaker also showcased her vocal range on screen, weaving her singing prowess into the story as part of her character.

A Different World highlights her talent through the show’s musical scenes. One particular episode was the 1990 Christmas special, I'm Dreaming of a Wayne Christmas, which appeared in Season 4.

Patti LaBelle appeared in eight episodes, with her final appearance on the show’s Season 6, Episode 18.

In a 2024 interview with People, former cast member Ron Johnson reflected on his experience working alongside some of the most talented stars of the ’80s and ’90s.

"From Lena Horne to Patti LaBelle to Diahann Carroll to Richard Roundtree to Tupac, Heavy D, Gladys Knight, Kris Kross ... all these guest stars were just spectacular."

Moreover, he also revealed the singer-actress’ habit of cooking for them and bringing food on the set. 

"I mean, every time. She would not come here if food was not coming with her," he shared, adding "That's a big thing. So, for anyone who thinks that Patti’s cooking shows are just something designed for TV, nope, that's that's the real Patti. That's how she rolls."

On the other hand, her on-screen success led her to star in her own sitcom, Out All Night, in 1992.

Related: 46 Years Ago, Iconic ’70s Rock Star Appeared in Hit Drama Film

When Prince released Purple Rain in 1984, it didn’t just top charts—it would go on to be ranked the greatest soundtrack of all time.

Now, more than four decades later, the landmark album has been named one of Barnes & Noble’s Albums of the Month for May 2026, placing it alongside a mix of modern and legacy favorites.

The honor is part of the retailer’s monthly vinyl spotlight, and Purple Rain stands out as the clear heavyweight in the group. Originally released as the soundtrack to the film of the same name, the album blended rock, pop, and R&B into something cinematic and emotionally charged—equal parts guitar thunder and synth shimmer.

It also remains one of the most commercially dominant albums ever released. Purple Rain spent 24 consecutive weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and produced multiple chart-topping hits, including “When Doves Cry” and “Let’s Go Crazy.” With more than 25 million copies sold worldwide, it marked the commercial peak of Prince’s career and cemented his status as one of music’s most innovative forces.

The recognition from Barnes & Noble comes on top of decades of critical acclaim. Purple Rain has been repeatedly ranked among the greatest albums ever made, including by Rolling Stone, which named it the No. 1 greatest soundtrack of all time. The publication has also placed the album at No. 8 on its list of the 500 greatest albums of all time—an acknowledgment not just of its chart dominance, but of its lasting influence on pop, rock, and R&B.

The album’s connection to the film only amplified its reach. Purple Rain, the movie, became a cultural phenomenon in its own right, blending music and storytelling in a way that helped redefine what a soundtrack could be. Prince’s performance, both on screen and in the studio, turned the project into something larger than a typical album release.

Barnes & Noble’s May selections don’t stop at Purple Rain. The list also includes Cruel World by Holly Humberstone, a synth-pop record exploring identity and young adulthood; Love Deluxe by Sade, widely praised for its smooth, atmospheric take on heartbreak; and 200 km/h in the Wrong Lane by t.A.T.u., the early-2000s Eurodance breakout that recently found new life thanks to a TV sync.

Still, it’s Purple Rain that carries the deepest cultural weight. Decades later, that impact hasn’t faded. If anything, honors like this suggest the opposite: some records don’t age—they just keep spinning.

Beloved filmmaker Wes Anderson finally won his Oscar just a few years back with his short film The Wonderful Life of Henry Sugar. Check it out on Netflix now!

But his award-winning movies have spanned decades, with Anderson's very first project with frequent collaborator Bill Murray having been released way back in 1998.

In addition to its quirky comedy and first-rate performance, Rushmore is also cherished by fans for its standout soundtrack. And in 2024, Rolling Stone ranked the coming-of-age film at No. 12 on its sprawling list of 101 Greatest Soundtracks of All Time.

"Wes Anderson originally conceived of the Rushmore soundtrack as being made up entirely of songs by The Kinks," the magazine wrote at the time. "But with due respect, it wouldn’t be nearly as good if it was."

Here are some highlights from the spread of songs featured in the film, which also stars Jaosn Schwartzman and Olivia Williams:

• "Here Comes My Baby" by Cat Stevens
• "A Quick One, While He's Away" by The Who
• "Oh Yoko!" by John Lennon
• "Nothin' in the World Can Stop Me Worryin' 'Bout That Girl" by The Kinks

For those not yet familiar with Rushmore — which some argue is still Anderson's finest film to date — here the official synopsis of the offbeat romance feature, which holds an impressive 90% average critics' rating on Rotten Tomatoes:

When a beautiful first-grade teacher (Williams) arrives at a prep school, she soon attracts the attention of an ambitious teenager named Max (Schwartzman), who quickly falls in love with her. Max turns to the father (Murray) of two of his schoolmates for advice on how to woo the teacher. However, the situation soon gets complicated when Max's new friend becomes involved with her, setting the two pals against one another in a war for her attention.

General Hospital alum Kimberly McCullough has given fans an exciting life update on social media, and fans are over the moon at the post.

The actress took to Instagram to share a recent selfie smiling with fans, captioning it, “And I couldn’t be happier.”

View this post on Instagram

In the comment section, former General Hospital executive producer Wendy Riche commented, “You look so good inside and outside ❤️ you look happier!!!” Her former co-star Vanessa Marcil added, “Let’s goooo.”

Fans also shared their excitement for her. One wrote, “You seriously do not age. You always have the sweetest smile.” Another added, “I miss you on G.H. I watched you grow up from a pretty young lady to a Beautiful woman, have a Wonderful day and weekend with friends and family ☺️🩷🩷🌻🌻🪻🪻” Others expressed their nostalgia, with a fan saying, “I remember you as a little girl, and you have always been delightful to watch ..what is up now ??😂”

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In 1985, at the age of 6, McCullough joined the cast of General Hospital as the daughter of World Security Bureau agent Robert Scorpio (Tristan Rogers) and Anna Devane (Finola Hughes).

She won her first Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Juvenile Female in a Drama Series in 1989 at the age of 11.

She remained a part of the soap opera until her first exit in 2000. She made a brief return to ABC daytime on All My Children in 2001 with the reintroduction of her on-screen mother, Anna Devane, to the ABC landscape, before returning to General Hospital in 2004.

The actress left the soap opera in 2018 and made her final appearance in 2021 to pay tribute to her late co-star, John Reilly, who played Sean Donely.

Since leaving General Hospital, McCullough has focused on her career in directing, with multiple stints on various television and film projects, including High School Musical: The Musical: The Series, The Bold Type, and, most recently, Vampirina: Teenage Vampire.

General Hospital airs weekdays on ABC and streams weeknights on Hulu.

Some films take years to make. Others take decades. A rare few become even more powerful because of it.

When We Were Kings, directed by Leon Gast, is one of the unusual projects that required extraordinary patience, taking more than 20 years to complete before finally reaching audiences. Eventually, Gast's film was ranked among the best movies of all time by Rotten Tomatoes.

The documentary centers on the legendary 1974 "Rumble in the Jungle" boxing match between Muhammad Ali and George Foreman in Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of the Congo). But, the film goes far beyond the fight itself, capturing the cultural and political significance of the event, as well as the global spotlight it brought to Africa.

"Ali had said over and over again, 'How's [Forman] gonna hit me? I'm gonna dance. I'm too fast for him,' and everybody expected he would run," Gast told Charlie Rose of the now-iconic fight. "And when he came out, he immediately ran across the ring. [...] Ali was not afraid of him and he wasn't dancing. He realized that George was a lot faster than he was, and the ropes were slack. He could lean back and Foreman punched himself out. And eventually, Ali had conserved his strength and in the later rounds he was able to knock him out."

Filming began in the 1970s, but the project quickly ran into financial and legal setbacks, leaving much of the footage unfinished for years. It wasn't until the 1990s that Gast was finally able to return to the material, assembling decades-old footage into a cohesive and deeply compelling narrative.

"There was something about Ali that just his presence and how he was conscious of the camera, but in a way different than anybody I had ever worked with," Gast told BBC.

When it was released, the film was met with widespread acclaim.

When We Were Kings went on to win the 1997 Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature, with critics praising its ability to blend sports, history and culture into a richly layered story. Its immersive approach and emotional depth helped it stand out as one of the most important documentaries of its time and in all of sports history.

Today, When We Were Kings stands as both a cinematic achievement and a testament to determination, proving that even after decades of delays, a story this powerful can still leave an unforgettable mark.

Related: 1964 International Film, Rediscovered After 31 Years, Ranked Among ‘Best Movies of All Time’

Princess Charlotte is looking more like her mom, Kate Middleton, every day, and the portraits for her 11th birthday show that they share a similar style. 

The Prince and Princess of Wales released new photos of Charlotte to celebrate her birthday on May 2. The preteen could be smiling in a navy blue sweater with red stripes and jeans. While she looked absolutely darling, showing off her long brunette hair, her affinity for a striped sweater echoed a look Kate, 44, has been known to wear. 

View this post on Instagram

Kate has worn a casual striped sweater on several occasions. In 2022, she looked cute and sporty during a sailing event in Plymouth, England, while she was still the Duchess of Cambridge. She paired her navy and white striped Erdem sweater with white high-waisted shorts by Holland Cooper and white Superga sneakers. 

PLYMOUTH, ENGLAND - JULY 31: Catherine, Duchess Of Cambridge is seen during her visit to the 1851 Trust and the Great Britain SailGP Team on July 31, 2022 in Plymouth, England. During the visit, the Duchess of Cambridge took part in activities educating young people about sustainability. (Photo by Chris Jackson/Getty Images)

Chris Jackson/Getty Images

In 2019, she inverted the color combination while keeping the same vibe during an event to launch the King's Cup Regatta. The royal mom of three wore a navy and white Breton-striped sweater and high-waisted wide-leg trousers by L.K. Bennett, adding a red clutch for a pop of color.

7 May 2019...The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge arrive at the Cutty Sark to launch the King's Cup Regatta...Here: The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge... (Photo by Justin Goff Photos/Getty Images)

Justin Goff Photos/Getty Images

The Princess of Wales also loves a striped jumper for non-royal duties. She brought 22-month-old Prince George to watch his dad, Prince William, play in a polo match in 2015, just six weeks after giving birth to Princess Charlotte. Kate was photographed sitting on the ground and running around with George in a blue and white striped Breton top from ME + EM and slim-fit Topshop maternity jeans.

TETBURY, UNITED KINGDOM - JUNE 14: (EMBARGOED FOR PUBLICATION IN UK NEWSPAPERS UNTIL 48 HOURS AFTER CREATE DATE AND TIME) Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge and Prince George of Cambridge attend the Gigaset Charity Polo Match at the Beaufort Polo Club on June 14, 2015 in Tetbury, England. (Photo by Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images)

Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images

It’s no surprise Charlotte has taken fashion cues from Kate, as she takes after her mother in a lot of ways. A royal insider told People, "She's clearly sporty like her mother. A bit of a mini-me.”

Although Kate and William are raising young royals in the spotlight, the Princess of Wales has stressed the importance of being a present and down-to-earth parent. The couple famously does not have any live-in staff at their private residence, Forest Lodge in Windsor Great Park. Kate reflected on her parenting philosophies while talking about what she wanted her kids to remember about her during an appearance on the “Happy Mum, Happy Baby” podcast in 2020.

RELATED: Donald Trump Gushes Over 'Brave' Kate Middleton in Off-Camera Interview

“I thought that was a really good question because actually, if you really think about that, is it that I'm sitting down trying to do their maths and spelling homework over the weekend? Or is it the fact that we've gone out and lit a bonfire and sat around trying to cook sausages that hasn't worked because it's too wet?” she said. “That's what I would want them to remember, those moments with me as a mother, but also the family going to the beach, getting soaking wet, filling our boots full of water, those are what I would want them to remember.”

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Whether you’re trying to save your favorite sofa from a shedding spree or just want to give your furry friend a cozy spot to relax, a pet throw is way more than just an accessory — it’s basically a survival tool for your home. These blankets act as a barrier against sharp claws, endless fur, and those random messes, all while giving your furry best friend a soft place to feel safe.

If you’re looking for something affordable and soft, the PetAmi Fluffy Fleece Cat and Dog Throw Blanket is a great option. Right now, it’s on sale for 50% off at Chewy, bringing the price down from $20 to just $10 for a small size. It’s an easy upgrade that doesn’t require a big investment.

PetAmi Fluffy Fleece Cat & Dog Throw Blanket, From $10 (was $20) at Chewy

Courtesy of Chewy

Shop at Chewy

It comes in five neutral colors — black, blue, brown, gray, and beige — so it’s easy to match with your existing decor. There are also multiple sizes available, ranging from small at 24 by 32 inches to extra large at 60 by 80 inches. That range makes it useful for everything from small pets to larger dogs.

The blanket itself is designed with comfort in mind. It’s made from sherpa fleece microfiber polyester, which gives it a soft and fluffy feel. It’s warm enough for year-round use without feeling too heavy, making it a comfortable choice for lounging or naps.

It’s also practical when it comes to protecting your home. You can use it on sofas, beds, or chairs to guard against scratching, chewing, and shedding. It works just as well in other areas too, like lining a crate, adding comfort to a car seat, or placing it on the floor as a dedicated pet spot.

Related: Chewy’s 'Adorable' Fruit-Themed Cat Tower Is on Sale for $81, and Pet Parents Are Obsessed

Cleaning is simple, which is key for anything pet related. The blanket is machine washable and can be tumble dried on low. It holds up well over time and even gets softer with each wash, so you don’t have to worry about it wearing out quickly.

This blanket has over 200 five-star reviews. One shopper dubbed it the “perfect little blanket,” adding, “I bought several to put on all my cat’s favorite spots so it will catch the hair and I can just wash the blankets.” Another described them as “warm,” adding, “These are incredibly soft, lightweight, and they wash and dry beautifully. My cat took to these immediately. They’re a bargain at any price.”

Shop More Deals

• Allisandro Microplush Fleece Polyester Dog & Cat Blanket, From $17 (was $20) at Chewy
• Bedsure ComfyFleece Waterproof Dog & Cat Blanket, From $17 (was $22) at Chewy
• Best Friends by Sheri Calming Shag Faux Fur Cat & Dog Blanket, From $18 (was $21) at Chewy

If you want something that’s both cozy for your pet and helpful for keeping your space clean, the PetAmi Fluffy Fleece Cat and Dog Throw Blanket is a great choice. With the current 50% discount, it’s a great time to pick one up or grab a few to keep around the house.

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If you're anything like me, the day is not complete until I finish all of the free word games from the New York Times. Working on the daily Connections, Connections Sports Edition, Wordle, and Strands is a whole ritual for many of us. And we can't forget about the NYT's The Mini Crossword, too!

Although the NYT is known for "The Crossword," a larger puzzle for paid subscribers, The Mini has quite the fan following as well. This particular game resets at 10 p.m., unlike some of the others that start over at midnight.

So, if you're working on today's Mini on for Today's Mini Crossword on Monday, May 4, and need some help (I've been there), get ready to read the clues and solutions for each line. We have them separated into hints first for both "Across" and "Down" words, followed by "Across Answers" and "Down Answers," so be careful if you want to avoid spoilers as you scroll!

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Hints for NYT’s The Mini Crossword on Monday, May 4, 2026

Here are additional clues for each of the words in today's Mini Crossword.

NYT Mini Across Hints

1 Across: Avian symbol of spring — HINT: Ends with the letter "N"

6 Across: Visible part of a book on a bookshelf —HINT: Starts with the letter "S"

7 Across: What happens there stays there, in a saying — HINT: Starts with the letter "V"

8 Across: Ctrl+P command — HINT: Ends with the letter "T"

9 Across: The bad guys in "The Bad Guys" often try to crack one — HINT: Starts with the letter "S"

Related: 16 Games Like Wordle To Give You Your Word Game Fix More Than Once Every 24 Hours

NYT Mini Down Hints

1 Down: Says "I'll be there" or "I can't make it" — HINT: Starts with the letter "R"

2 Down: Web browser whose logo is a red O — HINT: Ends with the letter "A"

3 Down: "That's a ___!" ("You're making a huge assumption!") — HINT: Ends with the letter "F"

4 Truly stupid — HINT: Starts with the letter "I"

5 Down: Home for a 1-Across — HINT: Ends with the letter "T"

Answers to NYT’s The Mini Crossword for Monday, May 4, 2026

Don't go any further unless you want to know exactly what the correct words are in today's Mini Crossword.

NYT Mini Across Answers

1 Across: Avian symbol of spring — ROBIN

6 Across: Visible part of a book on a bookshelf —SPINE

7 Across: What happens there stays there, in a saying — VEGAS

8 Across: Ctrl+P command — PRINT

9 Across: The bad guys in "The Bad Guys" often try to crack one — SAFE

NYT Mini Down Answers

1 Down: Says "I'll be there" or "I can't make it" — RSVPS

2 Down: Web browser whose logo is a red O — OPERA

3 Down: "That's a ___!" ("You're making a huge assumption!") — BIGIF

4 Truly stupid — INANE

5 Down: Home for a 1-Across — NEST

Related: This Adorable $3 Grill Season Find at Aldi Makes Mealtime Fun

Survivor legend Russell Hantz is preparing for his reality TV comeback!

On Friday, May 1, Hantz shared he's joining the cast of a show 15 years after his last appearance on the CBS reality series. However, he did not reveal which series he'll allegedly be joining.

"I have literally received 4 different offers to do 4 different shows this year alone. I have finally said yes to one of the offers! See you guys soon!" Hantz wrote.

In the replies, fans began speculating as to what his next project could possibly be.

"Cant wait to see you on Traitors. Letsss goooo!!!" one fan wrote. "House of Villains or Traitors. Gotta be. Let the Russell Renaissance begin!" said another.

"I think I’ll cry if it’s Dancing with the Stars!" added a third.

RELATED: Mike White Says He Heard Nothing From Christian Hubicki After ‘Survivor 50’—But He Says He Reached Out

Hantz previously starred in Survivor: Samoa in 2009, Survivor: Heroes vs. Villains in 2010, and Survivor: Redemption Island in 2011. He placed 2nd, 3rd, and 17th, respectively.

Though it's been 15 years since his last reality TV appearance in the United States, he did briefly appear on Australian Survivor in 2018, placing 23rd.

Despite not appearing in the U.S. version of the series for 28 seasons, he's widely considered one of the most iconic villains the show has ever seen.

“Russell really did reinvent a couple of things," Survivor host Jeff Probst said in a December 2020 video after rewatching Survivor: Heroes vs. Villains. "He’s the first guy who ever said, 'Why do I need to wait for a clue to go look for an idol? How many spots could it be in?' I really was reminded of how impressed I was by his absolute relentless pursuit of any and everything.”

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Whitney Leavitt is exiting the cast of The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives.

Leavitt made the announcement during her final performance as Roxie Hart in Broadway's Chicago on Sunday, May 3.

"Whitney just read the headline in Chicago… Whitney Leavitt leaves Secret Lives of Mormon Wives," read a post from sports journalist Melanie Newman on X.

A Reddit post from an alleged audience member also made the same claim, which was later confirmed by The Hollywood Reporter.

"At Whitney’s last performance tonight. While in character as Roxy. Officially announces she leaving SLOMW," the post read. "The crowd went wild with cheering."

In the musical, Roxie Hart reads a newspaper with the headline "ROXIE ROCKS CHICAGO" while addressing the audience about her desire to be famous.

RELATED: ‘Secret Lives of Mormon Wives’ Fate Revealed After Filming Hiatus

Leavitt's announcement comes just two weeks after SLOMW season 5 resumed filming after taking a month-long hiatus in the wake of an alleged domestic violence incident between Taylor Frankie Paul and Dakota Mortensen.

People later confirmed that filming would resume without Paul and Mortensen, though there was no word on any of the other cast members.

Leavitt previously hinted at leaving the reality series to pursue other projects in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter in March.

“I wouldn’t be where I am without [SLOMW],” Leavitt said at the time. “But it feels like it’s time to challenge myself in other ways and fulfill these dreams and passions that I’ve been trying to get even before the show.”

“I’m figuring it out in real time,” she added, noting that she and her husband, Connor Leavitt, were “figuring it out together.”

It is unclear if Leavitt, who began her Chicago run on Feb. 2, has filmed anything for the upcoming season.

Leavitt's representative did not immediately respond to Parade's request for comment.

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Led Zeppelin created a string of remarkable moments that fans still remember today.

Celebrated for being one of the pioneers of hard rock and heavy metal, the quartet made a mark in the music scene by introducing notable hits such as "Stairway to Heaven," "Whole Lotta Love" and "Kashmir."

Besides their timeless hits that generations still enjoy today, one of their most unforgettable feats came 55 years ago.

On May 3, 1971, Led Zeppelin pulled off something even their most devoted followers rarely witnessed.

At the height of their explosive rise, the rock band left the audience stunned during the opening night of their European tour.

In preparation for their fourth album, Led Zeppelin IV, the four-member group, consisting of original members Robert Plant on vocals, Jimmy Page on guitar, John Paul Jones on bass and keyboards and John Bonham on drums, delivered spectacular shows in Denmark, Italy and Switzerland, among others.

Interestingly, it was in Copenhagen where the group delivered a performance that fans remember as one of their most unique and rare moments.

At the time, Led Zeppelin reportedly did a two-hour show in front of 4,000 fans, performing a mix of fan favorites and new material such as “Heartbreaker,” “Dazed and Confused” and “Stairway to Heaven,” among others.

In their 13-song setlist, the band performed “Four Sticks,” a powerful and rhythm-driven rock song from their 1971 album.

Robert Plant of the rock band Led Zeppelin, March 2, 1973 in Copenhagen, Denmark

Jorgen Angel/Redferns via Getty Images

It was the first and only time that the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees played the track live.

The group rarely played the song because of its highly complex percussion, with John Bonham using two drumsticks in each hand, making it notoriously difficult to perform live.

In a report cited by Ultimate Classic Rock, Page previously revealed what inspired them to create “Four Sticks.”

"[Bonzo] had been to see Ginger Baker’s Air Force and he came in and he was really hyped about it” the guitarist told Mick Wall in his 2008 Zeppelin biography When Giants Walked the Earth, adding, “He liked Ginger Baker, but he was like, 'I’ll show him!' And he came in and he picked up the four sticks and that's it, we just did two takes of it. Because that's all we could sort of manage. But it's astonishing what he's doing. He'd never employed that style of playing before. I can't even remember what it was called, what the working title was. But it was sure as hell 'Four Sticks' after that. Bonzo just took it into another stratosphere."

However, in 1972, bandmates Page and Plant recorded a different version of “Four Sticks” as part of their experimental sessions.

The duo created an orchestral version of the legendary piece with the Bombay Symphony Orchestra and used traditional Indian instruments such as sitars, tablas, sarangi and a wind instrument called shehnai.

Four decades later, “Four Sticks” was re-released as part of Jimmy Page’s project to remaster the entire Led Zeppelin catalog, which took them two years and "hundreds of hours" to review every tape.

Related: World’s First True Rock Supergroup Started Historic Reunion Concert 21 Years Ago

One of the most praised horror movies ever made is heading back to theaters. The Silence of the Lambs, the Oscar-winning 1991 psychological thriller starring Jodie Foster and Anthony Hopkins, returned to the big screen this year as part of Fathom Entertainment’s 2026 Big Screen Classics series.

Fathom Entertainment confirmed that the 35th anniversary screenings of the film took place on April 26 and April 29. The limited theatrical release is part of a larger lineup celebrating landmark movies from different eras of cinema.

According to Fathom Entertainment, the annual series is designed to bring legendary films back to audiences in theaters, allowing longtime fans and younger viewers to experience classic movies on the big screen. Each screening included a special introduction from film historian Leonard Maltin, who discusses the film’s production, legacy, and lasting cultural impact.

Released in 1991 and directed by Jonathan Demme, The Silence of the Lambs became a major critical and commercial success. The film follows FBI trainee Clarice Starling, played by Foster, as she hunts the serial killer known as Buffalo Bill. 

To solve the case, she seeks help from imprisoned psychiatrist and cannibalistic murderer Dr. Hannibal Lecter, portrayed by Hopkins in one of cinema’s most unforgettable performances.

The film earned more than $272 million worldwide against a reported $19 million budget and became one of the highest-grossing films of 1991.

Over three decades later, The Silence of the Lambs remains one of the most influential thrillers ever made. It is still the only horror film to win the Academy Award for Best Picture.

At the 64th Academy Awards, the movie swept the “Big Five” Oscars: Best Picture, Best Director for Jonathan Demme, Best Actor for Anthony Hopkins, Best Actress for Jodie Foster and Best Adapted Screenplay for Ted Tally.

The film’s success helped turn Hannibal Lecter into one of Hollywood’s most famous villains. The American Film Institute later ranked Lecter as the greatest movie villain of all time, while Clarice Starling was named among the top movie heroes.

Critics continue to praise the movie for its suspense, performances, and psychological tension. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a 95% critic score and a 95% audience score from more than 250,000 ratings.

Famed critic Roger Ebert once described Hopkins’ performance as deeply unsettling, writing, “It has been a good long while since I have felt the presence of Evil so manifestly demonstrated as in the first appearance of Anthony Hopkins in ‘The Silence of the Lambs.’”

Ebert also praised the actor’s chilling screen presence, saying Hopkins played Lecter with “evil intelligence” rather than exaggerated horror.

The movie’s cultural impact has lasted far beyond its original release. In 2011, the U.S. Library of Congress selected it for preservation in the National Film Registry because of its cultural and historical importance.

The movie was adapted from Thomas Harris’ 1988 novel and featured a cast that included Scott Glenn, Ted Levine, Anthony Heald and Kasi Lemmons alongside Foster and Hopkins.

Anthony Hopkins’ role as Lecter almost went to another actor. Director Jonathan Demme first approached Sean Connery before Hopkins accepted the part after reading the script. 

Jodie Foster also strongly pursued the role of Clarice Starling after reading the novel. Although Demme originally considered Michelle Pfeiffer and Meg Ryan for the role, Foster eventually won the part because of her passion for the character.

Filming took place mainly in Pennsylvania between late 1989 and early 1990. Howard Shore composed the movie’s haunting musical score, while songs like Q Lazzarus’ “Goodbye Horses” became tied to some of the film’s most memorable scenes.

For movie fans, the return of The Silence of the Lambs offers another chance to see one of the most celebrated horror thrillers in film history, exactly where many believe it belongs: on the big screen.

Related: 1981 Drama Film, Ranked Among ‘Best Movies of All Time,’ Became an International Hit

Pro golfer Cameron Young has had quite a week. Not only did he win the Cadillac Championship at Trump National Doral, but he also got to meet the Presdient. And based on a post-tournament video clip, it looks like things just got better from there.

This wasn’t a typical day for Young. He called a one-stroke penalty on himself after he inadvertently caused his ball to move while playing the par-4 second hole—and he did it in front of Donald Trump. That’s right, the President, his granddaughter Kai Trump (a talented junior golfer), son Eric Trump, and daughter-in-law Lara Trump attended the event. 

MIAMI, FLORIDA - MAY 03: Cameron Young is seen with his wife, Kelsey Young, their sons, Henry and John, and their daughter, Vivienne Young, on the 18th green, after the final round of Cadillac Championship at Trump National Doral - Blue Monster Course on May 3, 2026 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Ben Jared/PGA TOUR via Getty Images)

Of course, a visit from the President also includes added security and a strong Secret Service presence, making it very different from most days of gameplay. 

The Cadillac Championship champ spoke, during a post-win press conference, about meeting the Commander-In-Chief, “I’ve been fortunate to meet him before, and that’s especially with us golfers, it’s something he loves, and I think appreciates how good everybody is on the PGA Tour. So really hugely complementary.”

He continued, “He’s nothing if not a very interesting man. He’s very powerful, and it’s an honor to get to play in front of him. So, I’m hugely grateful to him and his family, you know, and his organization that has these beautiful properties and allows us to come and play great golf tournaments on them.”

And while the President’s presence was a highlight, it wasn’t the only thing that, in his words, made him “happy today.” In the video, posted to the PGA Tour’s Instagram page, the golfer talks about the three things he enjoyed most on Sunday, saying, “Number one, getting to see my family at the end of the day. Uh, I didn’t know if they were coming down, but getting to see my wife and my kids at the end of the day, that was a big one.”

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So, what were the other two magical moments? As fans might expect, number two was winning the tournament. And then there was number three. Young shared, “Number three, will probably be getting home to my own bed tonight.”

Why Did Cameron Young Think His Family Wasn't Coming To the Cadillac Championship?

As it turns out, the President’s visit had something to do with his family’s absence. Young explained, “It’s pretty cool, um, they weren’t there for my first win at Wyndham, but fortunately, they’re at the Players and then came down today, um, later in the day.”

The dad of three ( with Kelsey Dalition) added, “I’d kind of told my wife, you know, maybe it’s not the best idea to stick the kids in the car for two hours here and two hours back with all the security with the President here and everything, but really grateful that they did come down. I was really happy to see them at the end of the day like that.” 

Days of Our Lives star Louis Tomeo (Aaron Greene) may not be in Salem right now, but the fan-favorite actor is sharing his international vacation with fans on social media.

Tomeo took to Instagram to share photos of his recent trip to Rome, Italy. Captioning the post “Giorni in Italia,” which is Italian for “Days in Italy.”

In the photos, Tomeo appears to be sharing pictures of the Victor Emmanuel II National Monument in Piazza Venezia. A second photo appears to have been taken at The Orange Garden on the Aventine Hill, where St. Peter’s Basilica can be spotted in the background.

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Tomeo’s friends and fans took to the comment section to share their excitement for his adventure. “Serving all the looks international 🤌🏼” wrote one user, with a second adding, “We loved Rome a couple years ago! Enjoy! Italy is amazing!! 🥰 miss you on Days!” A third jokingly shared, “Mogged the entire country of Italy.”

Tomeo recently celebrated his “Golden Birthday,” turning 24 on February 24. The actor celebrated with a post on Instagram, captioning the post with a note of reflection for his younger self, “Your gentleness, your compassion, your empathy, you never lost it. You just forgot where you put it :)

It is my greatest mission to bring that piece of your past back to you, so we can hang out and be happy, duh!!

To you, my friends, I promise this. Every lesson, every teacher, every memory. I promise I won’t let them go to waste.

I am hope, and you will have conjured me forth with hope ;).”

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On Days of our Lives, Tomeo plays Aaron Greene, the middle sibling of the Greene family, with his older siblings Mark (Jonah Robinson) and Cat (AnnaLynne McCord), and younger sister Felicity (Kennedy Garcia) living in Salem. Aaron recently found out that he fathered Sophia Choi’s (Rachel Boyd) child. Previously, Aaron and the rest of Salem had believed that Tate Black (Leo Howard) was the child’s father. Sophia and Aaron gave the child up for adoption, and he is being raised by Johnny (Carson Boatman) and Chanel (Raven Bowens) DiMera.

Tomeo last appeared on Days of Our Lives on November 25, 2025. However, fans are anticipating seeing the actor return to their screens soon, as Tomeo has shared behind-the-scenes content from the soap opera, suggesting he will return to Peacock in the coming weeks.

In addition to his appearances on Days of Our Lives, Tomeo’s credits include Doctor Odyssey, The Summer I Turned Pretty, and Every Witch Way.

Days of Our Lives streams weekdays on Peacock.

When a track snags an Academy Award for Best Original Song, it's usually because it's something special. For that reason, it can be difficult to narrow down the very best Academy Award-winning song. However, the publication Paste managed to do just that and release a ranking of the 15 "greatest best original song Oscar winners."

The list, published in March 2026, featured Oscar-winning numbers like "My Heart Will Go On" by Celine Dionfrom Titanic (1997), "Moon River" featured in 1961's Breakfast at Tiffany’s, Barbra Streisand's “The Way We Were” from the 1973 film of the same name, and The Wizard of Oz classic “Over the Rainbow." Bruce Springsteen's song “Streets of Philadelphia,” written for the 1993 film Philadelphia, took home the list's top spot.

The song received the big award at the 1994 Academy Awards. The other Best Original Song nominees for that year were "Again" by Janet Jackson, James Harris III, and Terry Lewis from Poetic Justice, James Ingram and Dolly Parton's "The Day I Fall in Love" from Beethoven 2, Sleepless in Seattle's "A Wink and a Smile" by Harry Connick Jr., and "Philadelphia" by Neil Young, also from Philadelphia, starring Tom Hanks and Denzel Washington.

When Springsteen accepted his award at the 1994 Oscars, he told the crowd that "this is the first song [he] ever wrote for a motion picture."

"So I guess it's all downhill from here," quipped the "Born to Run" singer.

Springsteen continued his speech by sharing that he was pleased his song was appreciated by fans of the Jonathan Demme-directed film, which focuses on the discrimination of individuals with AIDS, specifically a lawyer named Andrew Beckett (Hanks).

"You do your best work and you hope that it pulls out the best in your audience, that some piece of it spills over into the real world and into people's everyday lives and it takes the edge off the fear and allows us to recognize each other through our veil of differences. I always thought that was one of the things popular art was supposed to be about, along with the merchandising and all the other stuff," said Springsteen.

He also said that he wanted to share the award with Young and thanked Demme for inviting him to write the song for Philadelphia.

While it may seem like romance and romantasy novels are dominating book club lists and celebrity picks, Jenna Bush Hager’s May 2026 selection for her Read With Jenna book club is a reminder that thrillers are here to stay.

The talk show host and self-proclaimed book lover—her mom, Laura Bush, was a librarian after all—announced on the Today Show this week that she’s chosen Caller Unknown, the latest novel from famed British writer Gillian McAllister.

A Thoughtful, Character-Driven Thriller View this post on Instagram

Calling the book a “thriller that will keep you reading well into the evening,” Jenna’s endorsement of McAllister’s thriller points to the evolving popularity of the genre.

Considered more a thoughtful thriller than an edge-of-your-seat blockbuster, Caller Unknown is a character-driven story that focuses on a tender mother-daughter relationship filled with suspense and high emotional stakes.

Fans of McAllister’s books are “screaming” over the news, with Read With Jenna followers calling Caller Unknown an “amazing” book.

Related: Jenna Bush Hager Names 'Explosive' Debut Novel as Her April Read With Jenna Book Club Pick

The Power of Celebrity Book Clubs

Read With Jenna is one of the most followed celebrity book clubs, influencing book sales and making stars of new writers. The Today Show co-host has become an authority on what’s hot in the publishing world, even launching her own publishing imprint and segueing into live events.

In the ever-crowded world of book publishing, readers are increasingly looking to trusted voices—from celebrity book club hosts like Jenna Bush Hager and Reese Witherspoon to word-of-mouth recommenders on TikTok’s BookTok community, which has helped make stars of writers like Rebecca Yarros.

Why Caller Unknown Fits the Read With Jenna Mold View this post on Instagram

Read With Jenna picks generally focus on books with strong female characters at the center and emotionally rich narratives. McAllister’s novels, including Famous Last Words and Wrong Place, Wrong Time, often explore high-concept storylines built around a “what would you do?” premise.

Jenna’s selections tend to be mainstream, emotional, and accessible rather than overly niche. Caller Unknown sits right in the book club’s sweet spot: engaging, emotional, and full of twists that will keep readers talking long after they’ve turned the final page.

No wonder Jenna calls Caller Unknown a book that will keep up at night. What better reason to stay up late than a good book?

Related: Fans of 'Fourth Wing' Are Already Buzzing About Rebecca Yarros’ New Romance 'Peculiar Stars'

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Morgan Wallen is leading the pack when it comes to the most in-demand concert tours right now, with overwhelming fan interest making his Still the Problem tour the most sought-after ticket of the summer.

Despite big-name acts like Ariana Grande, Billie Eilish, and newcomer Olivia Dean all hitting the road, tickets for Morgan Wallen’s Still the Problem tour are the most sought-after of the season, according to experts analyzing Google Keyword Planner search data.

Wallen’s Still the Problem tour, with its next date on May 8, 2026, at Lucas Oil Stadium, generated a staggering 246,000 searches—nearly double Bruno Mars’ tour, which came in a distant second.

Why Fans Can’t Get Enough of Morgan Wallen Live @love.country.music

Morgan Wallen killed it on Night 1 in Vegas! 🎶🤩 @morganwallen @Club Wallen #morganwallen #morganwallenconcert #lasvegas #countryconcert #fyp

♬ Cowgirls - Morgan Wallen

Chalk it up to the country star’s strong fanbase and the anticipation surrounding his live performances as key drivers behind the intense surge in fans searching for information about his concert tour online.

Morgan Wallen’s live shows are some of the hottest events in music right now, but they’re not without controversy. Known for his celebrity-filled walkouts, Wallen was left hanging at the first of his two Las Vegas shows this weekend at Allegiant Stadium when five celebrity friends backed out of joining him for his signature concert entrance.

"Y’all got some flaky a— people in this town," Wallen can be heard telling the crowd in fan-captured video from the show. "I had like five different people lined up to do the walkout and they all bailed on me last minute."

Wallen’s unfiltered interludes are part of what fans have come to expect at his shows, adding to the intrigue and anticipation surrounding his concerts. His walkouts, which he began doing in 2024, range from choreographed solo entrances streamed on stadium jumbotrons to surprise appearances with major celebrities.

Related: One of Country Music’s Biggest Stars Is Heading Back on Tour—and Fans Are Already Buzzing

Celebrity Walkouts and Stadium Moments Fuel the Buzz @much

Morgan Wallen walked out alone to kick off his first night in Las Vegas and had this to say 👀 Via: IG/countrychord #morganwallen

♬ original sound - MuchMusic

Wallen has been accompanied on his walkouts by everyone from Tom Brady and Mike Tyson to Patrick Mahomes, Drake, and Barry Bonds. That’s all part of what fans have come to expect from the singer’s live shows—and why interest continues to surge online.

Inside the Still the Problem Tour

Morgan Wallen’s Still the Problem tour launched on April 1 in Minneapolis. He’s playing two nights in most cities and bringing a rotating lineup of openers, including Brooks & Dunn, HARDY, Ella Langley, and Thomas Rhett as direct support.

The Still the Problem tour is inspired by Wallen’s album I’m the Problem, which dropped in May 2025. The album spent 13 non-consecutive weeks atop the Billboard 200, contributing to the intense interest in his current concert run.

How To Get Tickets to Morgan Wallen’s Tour

While demand may be high for the Still the Problem tour, there are some tickets available. Check Ticketmaster or your favorite concert ticket resale app to get yours before they're gone.

Related: Kacey Musgraves Stuns Fans With Intimate Performance Ahead of New Album

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Vintage is very much on trend right now, but you don't have to scour your local antique and vintage stores in order to find beautifully unique pieces. Take, for example, this striking storage cabinet available right now at none other than World Market.

World Market's Samir Carved Wood and Mirror Storage Cabinet looks straight out of an antique store, but it is a World Market exclusive. Constructed from handcrafted mango wood in a charcoal tone, this storage cabinet features two front doors carved by artisans in India, with intricate geometric cutouts that showcase the antique mirror behind it.

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This storage cabinet features two interior shelves, perfect for storing a variety of items, from dinnerware to barware and more. This versatile and stylish storage unit would look beautiful in any space.

Samir Carved Wood and Mirror Storage Cabinet, $599.99 at World Market

World Market

When it comes to dimensions, this storage cabinet measures 28.5 inches wide, 15 inches deep and 58 inches high. It weighs 98.67 pounds. For the shelf compartments inside, these measure 27.25 inches wide, 13.5 inches in diameter, and 13.25 to 13.5 inches in height.

(Some shoppers did note in old reviews that the dimensions were wrong on the website, but this seems to have been remedied since these initial comments.)

Related: World Market's Boho Floor Lamp Looks Almost Identical to a Popular Crate & Barrel Style

Shoppers love this storage cabinet, giving it an average rating of 4.8 stars on WorldMarket.com.

"This cabinet is so pretty. It combines vintage and richness in one cool piece. The mirror behind the cabinet doors is subtle and not cheesy. I was worried about that. I just love everything about this piece. I'd been looking for a storage cabinet to fill a small wall space, in my room for forever and I finally found it in this," said one happy fan in a five-star review on World Market's website.

"This is a perfect edition to my small home office, I wanted something nice to hide all my office stuff without cluttering my desk, and this is perfect!" said another shopper in a five-star review on World Market's website.

You can find this gorgeous storage cabinet on World Market's website or in select World Market stores. It's currently on sale for $599.99.

Related: World Market's 'Darling and Useful' Wall Rack Is a Piece of Functional Art

You may have waited for years to become a grandparent, or maybe you fell into the role quickly. Either way, you might have landed in the role in a way larger capacity than you imagined.

"Grandparents can play a critical role in the development of children," says Dr. Maya Bousaini, Ph.D., a child psychologist at Rula. "This is especially true when grandparents are direct caregivers for their grandchildren—such as supporting parents with childcare—which in and of itself is a vital component of a child’s life."

Whether you see your grandchild every day or only on the holidays, grandmas and grandpas are vital to family systems.

"Grandparents offer something no one else can: unconditional love without the daily pressure of parenting," explains Dr. Amy Kincaid Todey, Ph.D., a child psychologist with Todey Psychology. "You are the living history of your family. You carry stories, values and a sense of identity that roots grandchildren in something bigger than themselves. You are, quite literally, irreplaceable."

As we said, grandmothers and grandfathers are important. Yet, child psychologists explain that with great power comes great responsibility. It's essential for these elders to prioritize certain relationships and behaviors, and one in particular is often overlooked. Below, four child psychologists share what they wish more grandparents would prioritize and how to work on it. They also share a few other behaviors and approaches to keep top of mind in this role.

Related: 9 Habits of Grandparents Who Stay Emotionally Close to Their Grandkids—Even From Far Away

What 4 Child Psychologists Wish More Grandparents Prioritized

Oliver Rossi/Getty Images

"The single most important thing a grandparent can do for their grandchildren is to support and respect the parents," Dr. Todey tells Parade.

She understands that you might not have expected that answer—she gets it. In fact, she concedes it can feel counterintuitive.

"You've been a parent. You know things," she adds. "But here's the hard truth, and I say this with enormous respect for everything grandparents have done: the way you show your love and wisdom matters as much as the love and wisdom itself."

Dr. Joseph Galasso, Psy.D., is a systems-oriented clinical psychologist with experience treating children and their families. He echoes these sentiments, calling respect and empathy the "bedrock of a strong family system." Empathy and respect are not the same, but they often go hand in hand.

"By being able to interact with your [adult] children with respect, grandparents have to be able to put themselves in their shoes, and to understand their reality as parents," says Dr. Galasso, who's also the Chief Executive Officer at Baker Street Behavioral Health. "Similarly, if you are able to operate from a standpoint of empathy, of nonjudgment, you are doing so with respect." 

OK—but what does all of this have to do with grandkids?

"Grandparents play a vital role in reducing the stress of their adult children, which positively impacts how those parents engage with their own children," explains Dr. Brittney Pearson, Ph.D., a licensed psychologist with Thriveworks.

And not for nothing. Parents have a say in who their child sees.

"Parents are gatekeepers," Dr. Bousaini adds. "In essence, if the relationship between a parent and grandparent is poor, children are less likely to spend time with their grandparent. Therefore, if they do not feel respected or supported, they may actively reduce grandparents’ access to their grandchildren—limiting the opportunity for positive impact."

That said, there are times when grandparents should speak up and prioritize the safety of the grandchild and other household members.

"If a child is in danger—if there is physical abuse, neglect, substance use that puts the child at risk, serious mental health crises that are going unaddressed or situations involving genuine harm—grandparents have a responsibility to act," Dr. Todey clarifies. "In these situations, this is not overstepping. This is what it means to love a child."

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

How To Prioritize Respect and Empathy for Parents When You’re a Grandparent"Take 24"

There's a good chance that whatever you want to say can wait until you've slept on it.

"Take 24 hours to think about how to address circumstances in which you disagree or feel upset," Dr. Galasso notes. "24 hours allows cooler heads to prevail, to let emotions quiet and to allow for thoughtful introspection on how to address your feelings."

If you can't or simply don't have it in you to wait that long, at least take a beat.

"If all else fails, try taking a deep breath and counting to 10 and asking oneself, 'Is it necessary?,' 'Is it true?,' 'Is it kind?' before providing unsolicited advice can be helpful when grandparents feel the urge to chime in," Dr. Bousaini advises.

Related: 11 Phrases To Use Instead of Automatically Giving Advice, According to Psychologists

Practice perspective-taking

Dr. Bousaini advises grandparents to practice perspective-taking and to remind themselves of what it was like when they were in their children's shoes. Ask yourself, "How did I feel when my parents commented on my parenting approach?"

"They can enhance empathy further by asking themselves, how would they have managed the challenges parents face today if they were younger or working," she adds.

On that note, keep in mind that times have changed, but many parents are still operating under a system that assumes one parent (probably Mom) will 100% be staying home with the children.

"Unlike many other developed countries, the United States provides minimal parental leave, limited subsidized childcare and almost no community infrastructure built around supporting new families," Dr. Todey explains. "Parents today are isolated in ways that are genuinely new. Social media ads comparison and judgment on top of exhaustion. The mental load is staggering."

Ask permission first

Yes, you'll want to ask your adult child (or their partner) for permission—even though they're younger than you.

"If grandparents feel compelled to offer parenting advice, they can ask for permission first rather than impose it," Dr. Bousaini notes. "For instance, try saying, 'I have some thoughts about X, would you like to hear them?'"

Validate the struggle

If you are going to speak up, remember that what you say is just as important as how you say it.

"New parents need to hear that what they're doing is hard before they can hear anything else," Dr. Todey says. "Try leading with: 'I can see how much you love them," or 'This stage is exhausting, and you're doing so well.'"

She explains that "validation-first communication" can lead to less defensiveness because the person feels understood.

"Grandparents who master this skill will find that their advice, when they do share it, actually gets heard," she reveals.

Related: People Who Never Felt Validated as Kids Often Develop These 11 Traits as Adults, Psychologists Say

Seek collaboration over control

You and your grandchild's parents are in it together.

"Remind yourself that you and the parent share a common goal: the health and happiness of the child," Dr. Pearson notes. "When you disagree with a specific parenting method, refocus on this shared objective. If the child is safe and loved, practicing empathy becomes easier because you realize you are both on the same team."

Related: Experts Reveal 9 Traits of Grandmothers Who Stay Close To Their Grandkids

5 Other Things Grandparents Should Prioritize, Child Psychologists Say 1. Rule consistency

We know, we know. Grandparents are "supposed" to slip their grandkids butterscotch candy behind their parents' backs and let them stay up past bedtime during sleepovers. But child psychologists don't recommend buying into this trope.

"While grandparents may find delight in allowing their grandchildren to 'break the rules' regarding discipline or screen time, children thrive in predictable environments," Dr. Pearson explains. "Maintaining consistency across both the parents’ and grandparents’ households is essential to prevent increasing a child’s overall stress."

 2. Respect for the child's individuality

Dr. Galasso urges grandparents to let grandkids' uniqueness shine, mask-free.

"Let your grandchild be who they are," he says. "Respect their interests, temperament and pace of development rather than comparing them to their parent as a child or trying to recreate old experiences."

3. Presence over performance

You want to open the door for your grandkid to show up as they are, but Dr. Todey shares that it's also important for grandparents to step off the stage and into their own skin.

"So many grandparents feel pressure to be useful," she says. "They try to stay relevant by cooking, teaching and imparting wisdom. But what grandchildren remember most is not the lessons. It's the feeling of being with you."

Forget the to-do list.

"Get on the floor," she urges. "Follow the child's lead. Your presence, fully offered, without distraction, is the gift."

4. Model what it looks like to keep growing

The learning doesn't stop just because school is out.

"One of the most powerful things a grandparent can do is let their grandchildren see them change," Dr. Todey states. "When a grandparent says, 'I've been thinking about that differently lately,' or 'I learned something new,' they give their children and grandchildren a model of lifelong growth."

5. Tell your stories

Dr. Todey calls this one "deeply underrated."

"Kids who know their family history, including its struggles and imperfections, show higher self-esteem and better coping skills," Dr. Todey explains. "Grandparents are the living keepers of that history."

So, tell stories—a lot of them.

"Tell the funny ones and the hard ones," she recommends. "Let your grandchildren know that people in their family have faced hard things and survived. That knowledge is a gift that will last their entire lives."

Related: 7 Subtle Signs Your Mother Is Actually Jealous of You, According to a Psychologist

Final Takeaways

Grandparents serve a vital role in a family system. When grandparents prioritize certain behaviors and relationships, the whole family benefits. Here's what to keep in mind:

• Grandparents are important to families. They serve as primary caregivers, secondary parents and beloved family members who provide unconditional love.
• It's vital for grandparents to prioritize respect and empathy for the child's parents. Grandparents may delight in connecting with their grandkids, but it's important to foster a positive relationship with the child's parents. Doing so reduces tension and also prevents rifts that could cause an adult child to cut off or limit contact.
• You can take steps to respect and empathize with a grandchild's parent. Refrain from responding or offering knee-jerk advice. Instead, take one day (or at least a few breaths) before stepping in. It can also help to ask permission before giving advice and put yourself in the parents' shoes. Remember, you're all on Team Family.
• Grandparents can prioritize other behaviors, too. Child psychologists recommend telling stories, accepting the child as they are and showing up as your true self.

Up Next:

Related: 9 Phrases Parents Should Never Say About Their Adult Child’s Partner, According to a Psychologist

Sources:

• Dr. Maya Bousaini, Ph.D., is a child psychologist at Rula.
• Dr. Amy Kincaid Todey, Ph.D., is a child psychologist with Todey Psychology.
• Dr. Joseph Galasso, Psy.D., is a systems-oriented clinical psychologist and Chief Executive Officer at Baker Street Behavioral Health.
• Dr. Brittney Pearson, Ph.D., is a licensed psychologist with Thriveworks.

Former New York City Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani is currently hospitalized in Florida in critical condition, his spokesperson confirmed on Sunday.

Giuliani, 81, who is commonly referred to as Rudy, “remains in critical but stable condition,” the spokesperson Ted Goodman noted. In a post on Twitter/X, Goodman shared only a few details on Giuliani's condition, but did request prayers from the public.

“Mayor Giuliani is a fighter who has faced every challenge in his life with unwavering strength, and he’s fighting with that same level of strength as we speak,” he said, asking "that you join us in prayer for America's Mayor Rudy Giuliani."

Mayor Rudy Giuliani is currently in the hospital, where he remains in critical but stable condition. Mayor Giuliani is a fighter who has faced every challenge in his life with unwavering strength, and he's fighting with that same level of strength as we speak.

We do ask that you…

— Ted Goodman (@TedCGoodman) May 3, 2026

On Twitter/X, Michael Ragusa, the former mayor's head of security, shared the same statement, which he referred to as "the only authorized statement at this time."

For immediate release from @RudyGiuliani. This is the only authorized statement at this time. pic.twitter.com/QqbsqcQpg2

— Michael Ragusa (@themikeragu) May 3, 2026

The New York Times noted that President Donald Trump took to Truth Social to speak about Giuliani, calling him a “True Warrior, and the Best Mayor in the History of New York City, BY FAR.” Trump continued, saying, "What a tragedy that he was treated so badly by the Radical Left Lunatics, Democrats ALL — AND HE WAS RIGHT ABOUT EVERYTHING! They cheated on the Elections, fabricated hundreds of stories, did anything possible to destroy our Nation, and now, look at Rudy. So sad! President DONALD J. TRUMP."

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Giuliani Was in a Car Accident Last Year

In August of 2025, Giuliani was in a car accident in New Hampshire, which left him with multiple serious injuries, including a fractured vertebra.

Ragusa shared that Giuliani had pulled over to assist a woman whom he believed was the victim of domestic violence. After calling 911 and waiting for emergency personnel to arrive, Giuliani continued driving, only to be struck from behind moments later, Parade previously wrote.

@RudyGiuliani was in a car accident in NH on Aug 30 after assisting a domestic violence victim. He sustained injuries but is in good spirits and recovering tremendously. Thank you for the prayers & support. 🙏 official statement below. pic.twitter.com/ohYJCcXpjR

— Michael Ragusa (@themikeragu) August 31, 2025

Giuliani served as New York City's mayor from 1994 to 2001. He later served as a legal advisor and personal attorney to President Trump during his first presidential term. Giuliani was disbarred in 2024, which Goodman called “an absolute travesty and a total miscarriage of justice.” He's been living a quieter life since sustaining serious injuries during the New Hampshire car accident in August of 2025.

Related: Rudy Giuliani Suffers Harrowing Injuries After Car Crash