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At the age of 80, actor Tim Curry died peacefully at his home in Los Angeles on Aug. 25. TMZ was the first to report the news.

Curry is most well-known for his role as Dr. Frank-N-Furter in The Rocky Horror Picture Show, both the 1975 film and stage reprise. He also starred as Wadsworth in 1985’s Clue, played Mr. Hector in Home Alone 2: Lost in New York, and the pirate villain Long John Silver in Muppet Treasure Island.

To honor his legacy in Hollywood, fellow actor Melissa Gilbert took to social media to pay tribute to Curry.

“Ok 2026, you can stop now,” the Little House on the Prairie star wrote. “I don’t know how to explain how much I enjoyed watching this man on film, in interviews, and on stage. These last several days have just been heartache on heartache on heartache. Please stop! Mr Curry, may flights of angels sing thee to thy rest.”

A few hours before her tribute to Curry, Gilbert also honored Dolly Parton with a post. Like Curry, Parton passed away on Aug. 25 at the same age of 80. Later, Gilbert also paid tribute to actress Shelley Fabares, who passed away on Aug. 22.

While the cause of death for Curry is not yet known, LAPD confirmed to People that police officers responded to a call for service on Tuesday at 11:20 p.m. They completed a death investigation for a male in his 80s at home in North Hollywood. At this time, no other information is known.

Over the past decade, Curry was transparent about his health struggles. In 2012, he suffered from a near-fatal stroke, which left him with lasting mobility issues. In a final interview with USA Today, he said that at the time, his health had been “pretty good,” although he had been carrying an aneurysm in his abdomen, not knowing when or if it would rupture.

“The whole thing’s been scary,” Curry revealed.

Find Parade’s full coverage of Curry’s death here.

Target is at the center of a serious backlash over a children’s costume. The retailer recently pulled the Halloween item from its stores after the “Kids’ Glows under Blacklight Circus Circus” outfit sparked criticism over a product photo that evoked Jim Crow-era blackface and minstrel imagery. 

After shoppers slammed Target, the chain issued an apology statement, posting on Instagram, “We removed an offensive Halloween costume that should never have been part of our assortment. It is no longer for sale. As a company, we got this wrong, and we are deeply sorry.”

The statement continued, “We know this is especially hurtful for our Black guests, team members and partners. Removing the costume is an important first step, and we are looking closely at how this happened and what needs to change to ensure this won’t happen again.”

Viola Davis. (Photo by Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images)

But the story doesn’t end there. The company’s apology did not go over well. Actress Viola Davis recently posted a scathing rebuke on Instagram, writing a poignant piece: “Target, I do not accept your apology, and I do not believe that you understand the impact…the pain…the dehumanization of the above.”

Davis added, “These images laid the foundation and the ideology for every atrocity that has been committed against my people. We MATTER!! You have shown us that you are not on OUR side.” 

The actress’s fans flocked ot her post, sharing the same sentiment. “This is why DEI existed because companies cannot be trusted to do the right thing unless they’re forced to”, “Target’s been getting a lot of things wrong lately. These aren’t mistakes; once they are seen, you can’t take it back. Sorry Target, not sorry,” and “This is not a mistake or oversight. Not a single human can look at this and not understand what this represents. I don’t care if it is the only store in the city, I am not setting foot inside a Target.”

Criticism of Target’s apology didn’t stop there. When CNN reported the story and shared it on Instagram, plenty of people jumped on the post to give their opinions.

“That’s what happens when there’s no People’s of Color in the room. Imagine how many signatures were needed to get this costume into production and marketing?” responded one commenter.

Others replied, “That costume clearly and explicitly showed the racism of the past that is still rampant today,” and, “Target, these are not mistakes. They are intentional!”

Target has not responded to Davis’s comment. 

Tim Curry’s death has sent fans back to one of his most beloved movies, where they noticed a painful coincidence involving three familiar faces.

Curry, Catherine O’Hara, and Brenda Fricker all appeared in the 1992 holiday favorite Home Alone 2: Lost in New York. All three died in 2026, within seven months of one another.

A viral Instagram post highlighting the connection drew thousands of reactions as viewers mourned the actors and expressed concern for Macaulay Culkin, who played Kevin McCallister.

What Is the Eerie ‘Home Alone 2’ Coincidence? HomeAlone_Key Art

Walt Disney Studios

The three actors played memorable figures in Kevin’s New York adventure. O’Hara returned as Kate McCallister, Kevin’s determined mother. Fricker played the Pigeon Lady, the lonely Central Park resident who forms a touching friendship with him. Curry delivered one of the sequel’s funniest performances as Mr. Hector, the suspicious Plaza Hotel concierge determined to expose Kevin.

No public evidence suggests their deaths were connected. Still, losing three members of the same cherished cast during one year struck fans as an unsettling coincidence.

When Did Catherine O’Hara, Brenda Fricker and Tim Curry Die? View this post on Instagram

O’Hara died Friday, January 30, at 71. According to The Associated Press, a death certificate listed a pulmonary embolism as her immediate cause of death, with rectal cancer as the underlying cause.

Fricker died Thursday, July 16, at Our Lady’s Hospice in Dublin. The Oscar-winning Irish actress was 81 and had experienced a period of ill health, according to RTÉ.

Curry died peacefully at his Los Angeles home on Tuesday, August 25, his manager confirmed to The Associated Press the following day. He was 80. Curry’s cause of death has not yet been disclosed.

How Are ‘Home Alone 2’ Fans Reacting and Why Are Fans Expressing Concern for Macaulay Culkin? View this post on Instagram

The coincidence prompted some fans to think immediately of Culkin, the most recognizable surviving face of the holiday franchise.

Another added: “Hey universe, to be clear, the next one should NOT BE Macaulay. Hope that helps!”

One viewer wondered whether the earlier losses had affected the actors who died later.

One wrote: “A lot of people don’t recognize that Brenda Fricker was probably affected by the death of Catherine O Hara and Tim Curry was probably affected by both of those losses. Makes sense there would be cast clusters like that.”

There is no public evidence showing that grief played a role in either later death.

The observation remains fan speculation. For many viewers, the coincidence changed the emotional weight of a movie they revisit every Christmas. Wrote another: “Watching home alone will never be the same anymore Rest In Peace Catherine, Tim and Brenda😢.”

Another shared, “That just broke me even more😢 Mr. Grim is taking the wrong 80 year olds 😩💔🕊️.” Another fan wrote: “The grim reaper seems to be picking off the wrong actors in that movie.”

A similar Reddit thread captured the same sense of loss. The post, which received more than 2,000 upvotes, featured images of O’Hara, Fricker and Curry beneath the caption, “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York is going to be painful to watch for this year’s Christmas!”

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Dozens of users joined the discussion, sharing how the three losses could make their next holiday viewing feel especially bittersweet. The comments reflected a shared sense of nostalgia and loss. O’Hara, Fricker and Curry each brought warmth, humor or tension to Kevin’s journey. Their performances remain preserved in a holiday classic that now carries a more bittersweet meaning for longtime fans.

With only six home chefs remaining in the MasterChef: Global Gauntlet season, it was time for the Restaurant Takeover challenge as the competition to win the grand prize of $250,000 and the trophy awarded by host/judge Gordon Ramsay, judge Joe Bastianich and judge Tiffany Derry continued tonight.

With so few remaining chefs, the six home chefs were divided into the Red Team and the Blue Team, meaning the division into regions of the world — Africa, Asia-Pacific, Europe and The Americas, which started the season, are no longer applicable..

For the “Restaurant Takeover” episode, Jake Kelley, Heidi Muston and Julia Cili comprised the Blue Team with Jake serving as captain, while Dave Patera, Peter Egede, and Basia Newman made up the Red Team with Basia as captain. Both teams put their skills to the ultimate test as they took over Cluny Bistro for a packed dinner service.

By the end of the night, one cook did not survive the dinner rush.

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Who went home on MasterChef: Global Gauntlet tonight? Dave Patera

Photo credit: FOX

Dave Patera
Representing: Morocco
Current Residence: Chicago, IL

Who’s left on MasterChef: Global Gauntlet? TEAM EUROPE

Basia Newman
Representing: Poland
Current Residence: Asbury Park, NJ

Julia Cili
Representing: Italy
Current Residence: Miami, FL

TEAM AFRICA

Peter Egede
Representing: Nigeria
Current Residence: Dallas, TX

Heidi Muston
Representing: South Africa
Current Residence: Plantation, FL

Related: MasterChef’s Tiffany Derry Reveals the Biggest Mistake Contestants Keep Making (Exclusive)

TEAM AMERICAS

Jake Kelley
Representing: Mexico
Current Residence: Mount Pleasant, MI

Related: MasterChef Spoilers: The Wall Challenge Twist Claims More Cooks in Another Double Elimination

Who won the MasterChef: Global Gauntlet challenge? Julia Cili, Heidi Muston and Jake Kelley

Photo credit: Geoff George/FOX

The menu for the night was:

Appetizer: Sautéed prawns with curried parsnip purée and smoked bacon lardon salad
Appetizer No. 2: Pan-seared branzino with sautéed scallops, mussels in a bouillabaisse
Entrée: Pan-seared salmon with soubise creamed onion purée, sautéed escarole and sauce Vierge
Entrée No. 2: Steak frites with Bordelaise sauce, watercress salad and parmesan fries

“Tonight, the key to success is in the timing and communication,” Gordon told the teams.

As the service ensued, it was obvious early on that the Blue Team would emerge victorious, and that’s what happened.

Who was in the MasterChef: Global Gauntlet bottom this week? Peter Egede, Basia Newman and Dave Patera

Photo credit: Geoff George/FOX

The Red Team – Basia, Peter and Dave – finished in the bottom, with Joe telling them if it was one of his restaurants, they would have been fired on the spot.

But it was also clear that Dave, who had so much trouble cooking the salmon that Gordon took over at one point, was the one to go home – and that’s what happened even though Basia was the captain.

“Tonight was really tough but at this level, there’s no room for mistakes,” Dave said. “I struggled in the kitchen tonight, but I’m really proud of what I’ve been able to do during my time on MasterChef. I’ve made so many friends in this kitchen, and it’s been an amazing journey. It’s been so incredible to show Moroccan and North African food to the world. I am walking away from MasterChef today, but I feel I’ve grown so much since I’ve been here, so I look forward to continuing on my journey.”

MasterChef airs Wednesday nights at 8 p.m. ET/PT on FOX. Streams next day on Hulu.

Next,  MasterChef Returns With an International Theme for Season 16 in 2026 — What to Know

On Aug. 26, 1946, Motown legend Valerie Simpson was born in The Bronx, New York, and she went on to become one of the most prolific singer/songwriters of her time. Today, Aug. 26, 2026, the artist celebrates her milestone 80th birthday.

With an iconic career spanning six decades, Simpson penned countless songs that defined a generation and are still timeless hits many years later. Alongside her late husband Nickolas Ashford, she formed the legendary songwriting duo Ashford & Simpson, known for penning instantly recognizable classics like Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell‘s “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” and “Ain’t Nothing Like the Real Thing,” Chaka Khan‘s “I’m Every Woman,” Diana Ross‘ “Reach Out and Touch (Somebody’s Hand),” and several more.

The musical duo had their own successful releases as well, with “Solid” and “Found a Cure” among the most notable. Together, they were inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2002. Adding to their career accolades, Ashford & Simpson earned 22 gold and platinum records, were nominated for three Grammy Awards, and in 2019, received the Grammy Trustees Award.

Related: 1985 Pop Song, Once Spent 22 Weeks Charting, Launched the ‘Queen of the Power Ballad’s Career

“A warm, quiet multi-faceted avatar of gospel-influenced, sophisticated romantic soul music, Valerie Simpson was, in the words of Berry Gordy, ‘a pint-sized ball of dynamite, especially when working in the studio,'” according to Classic Motown.

Simpson appeared on talk show Sherri this spring, telling host Sherri Shepherd that she’s “thrilled” her songs have experienced such longevity. “If I had known they were gonna last so long, we would’ve wrote them better,” she joked in April 2026. “They go on and on and on,” she added of the many places they’ve been played over the years—from perfume ads to commercials, movies, and more.

Dressed to the nines in a black dress covered by a gold-striped blazer, the iconic talent went on to explain her secret for still feeling sexy at her age. “You know why? Because I love what I do. You have to do what you love in order to keep your vibrancy, keep you excited about life; keep the goosebumps coming.”

Next, 1971 No. 1 Hit, Famously Performed on ‘Soul Train,’ Is Still a ‘Masterclass in Storytelling’ 55 Years Later

’70s pop icon Barry Manilow hopes to “sing like a bird” again after recent health concerns, including lung cancer in December and more recently “pushing a little too hard” for the 83-year-old crooner.

There aren’t many octogenarians taking the stage and still impressing, as Vegas is notorious for acts running too long.

Manilow has largely received high praise from concertgoers, especially during his “Sin City” residency with dates scheduled through December 2026. But recent technical glitches forced one show to end early, followed by more cancellations at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino.

Related: ‘America’s Got Talent’ Faces Major Shake-Up as Simon Cowell Steps Away for Health Reasons

Behind the scenes, however, more rest may have been needed, as Manilow spoke directly to fans on Instagram this week to reveal a much-needed break from performing for a hard reset:

“Hi everybody – Barry here. And I want you to be the first to know that we’re going to take a quick break,” he began. “We just finished a fantastic summer tour. 29 shows in 68 days. The shows were fantastic. The audiences were fantastic. And I sounded fantastic. But it seems that we were pushing a little too hard.”

He added, “Now we all need to sit down and shut up. So, we’re going to take a break until we return to the Westgate Las Vegas on October 8th. When I’ll be singing like a bird. I hope to see you then.”

If all goes according to plan, it won’t be long before the music legend is back behind the microphone fulfilling his lifetime residency with Westgate doing what he’s done for more than five decades.

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

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From head to boots, Kacey Musgraves exudes the kind of grit, grace, and glam you’d expect from a country music superstar. The eight-time Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter launched a Walmart line over the summer called Kacey Lee, a collaboration with Lee bearing both her actual middle name and a reference to the iconic denim line. The collection boasts apparel inspired by her music and personal style, leaning heavily into the nostalgic, country-western aesthetic she’s known for.

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Released shortly after her latest album, Middle of Nowhere, the Walmart collection’s limited-time run features many pieces adorned with song lyrics and cheeky phrases. One style in particular, the Kacey Lee Graphic Cutaway Tank Top, is currently marked down to a mere $3, offering fans a chance to snag a piece of the singer’s swag for less than a cup of coffee. Normally $16, every version of this tank is on sale — and one style has already sold out completely, so if you want to grab one, now is the time!

Kacey Lee Graphic Cutaway Tank Top, $3 (was $16) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Available in sizes XS through XXL, this tank top is made from a soft and stretchy blend of cotton, polyester, and spandex. It features a scoop neck design with a wide racerback. The length is lightly cropped so that it works especially well with high-waisted jeans, ending in a sweet ruffled hem. Several shoppers mentioned sizing up makes the tank fit less like a crop top.

Of the three available designs, each sports a unique graphic and color combination. The dark maroon tank simply says “Darlin'” in a contrasting white cursive script that looks like rope, with a star accent placed daintily above the “i.” A baby blue version boasts the phrase “Take the bull by the horns” in shades of dark blue and brown with five stars above the graphic. Finally, the mustard yellow top features a vintage-style nod to Kacey’s latest album with the words “Middle of Nowhere Club” across the chest.  

Kacey Lee Graphic Cutaway Tank Top, $3 (was $16) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Walmart shoppers raved about the “adorable” design of this tank top, calling it “so flattering.” Customers noted that the cropped style looked “super cute” and felt “comfy,” sharing that it looked “perfect” paired with denim shorts.

Shop More Deals

• Kacey Lee Middle of Nowhere Fleece Zip Up Hoodie, $6 (was $28) at Walmart
• Kacey Lee Giddy Up Graphic Ringer Tee, $3 (was $18) at Walmart
• Kacey Lee 2-Piece Woven Sleep Set, $8 (was $20) at Walmart

Related: Adidas’ ‘Very Flattering’ $14 Cotton Tank Is a Surprisingly Great Summer-to-Fall Staple

When you want to add some sass, spunk, and sparkle to your day, there’s no better inspiration than Kacey Musgraves. Snag a Kacey Lee Graphic Cutaway Tank Top for just $3 at Walmart while you still can — when this deal is gone, it’s gone for good!

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

The Daltrey drought is over. The legendary lead singer and founder of The Who has returned to the stage, with last Sunday’s performance serving as his first in more than a year.

According to Ultimate Classic Rock, Roger Daltrey kicked off his U.S. solo tour, A Great Night Out, with a 19-song concert that bounced through classic Who tunes, like “Who Are You” and “The Kids Are Alright,” and solo tracks, such as “Waiting for a Friend” and “Days of Light.”

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Fans were also serenaded with a string of stellar covers that included renditions of Pete Townshend’s “Let My Love Open the Door,” Taj Mahal’s “Freedom Ride,” Creedence Clearwater Revival’s “Have You Ever Seen the Rain?” and Neil Young’s “Rockin’ in the Free World.”

The outlet also reported that Daltrey took a moment to honor late Who drummer Keith Moon on what would have been his 80th birthday by leading the audience through a tender rendition of “Happy Birthday.”

“With my present lineup of nine musicians, I have this opportunity to see your beautiful country and enjoy the hospitality you have shown me over so many years,” Daltrey told Rolling Stone about the tour. “I’ll be off the backing tracks and always searching for different soundscapes to present the songs. It’s a lot of fun and gives me the chance to have a great night out.”

An English singer-songwriter, Daltrey first assembled the band that would become The Who in 1961, recruiting John Entwistle before Pete Townshend joined. Moon came aboard in 1964. Daltrey defined the swagger and raw energy of classic rock with his iconic vocals on anthems like “My Generation,” “Baba O’Riley,” and “Won’t Get Fooled Again.”

In 1973, Daltrey launched his solo career while still performing with The Who, releasing 10 studio albums, including Daltrey and As Long as I Have You.

Two years later, the powerhouse frontman made his biggest film splash with Tommy, Ken Russell’s gonzo adaptation of The Who’s 1969 rock opera of the same name. The effort was rewarded handsomely by critics and fans, and even earned a Golden Globe nomination.

In 1990, Daltrey and The Who were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

Later, in 2025, Daltrey received a knighthood from the British monarchy for his services to music and charity, which include supporting the Teenage Cancer Trust in the U.K., co-founding Teen Cancer America, and raising tens of millions of dollars for youth cancer wards and research.

Following The Who’s North American farewell tour, Daltrey is now on his U.S. solo tour. A Great Night Out does just what its name suggests: features a semi-acoustic, rock-driven band, reimagined arrangements of Who classics and solo favorites, with plenty of surprises and nothing but a good time at its core.

Daltrey has noted that retirement might be around the corner and that this tour could be his final major solo jaunt.

“After finishing The Who’s final tour of the U.S., it’s time for me as a solo artist to do the same possibly,” Daltrey told Rolling Stone. “After touring solo with different bands of musicians for the last 17 years, a less grueling life becomes more attractive–I’ll see.”

A Great Night Out, which began Aug. 23 in Mesa, Arizona, at the Mesa Arts Center, now runs through Oct. 3, when Daltrey will close the North American trek in Selbyville, Delaware, at the Freeman Arts Center. Tickets are on sale now at thewho.com/tour.

Related: ’70s Hard Rock Legends Announce ‘No Speed Limit Tour,’ Their First in 2 Years

If you’re searching for your next crime thriller, Made in Korea 2 may fit the bill. Although watching the first season will provide helpful context, viewers can also find plenty of quick recaps online before diving into Season 2.

The Hulu series stars Hyun Bin, the fan-favorite South Korean actor best known to many viewers for Crash Landing on You. This season picks up nine years after the events of Season 1, as Baek Kitae’s growing power puts him on another collision course with his longtime enemy.

Read on for everything to know about Made in Korea 2, including its premiere date, cast, plot and official trailer.

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What is Made in Korea 2 about?

Made in Korea Season 2 follows Baek Kitae (Hyun Bin) as he continues his rise to power after framing prosecutor Jang Geonyoung (Jung Woosung). Now the Deputy Director of the Korean CIA (KCIA), Kitae continues to grow his wealth and influence, expanding his drug operations across the region. But with political turmoil and discontent spreading, Kitae’s old foe Geonyoung will step out from the shadows to exact his revenge nine years in the making. With more at stake than ever before, Geonyoung and Kitae will break every rule and cross every line to eliminate the other once and for all in this fast-paced second installment.

What was Season 1 of Made in Korea about?

Season 1 of Made in Korea introduced the characters of Baek Kitae and Jang Geonyoung, two individuals on very different sides of the law. The crime thriller series, which debuted in 2025, is set in the 1970s and follows KCIA agent Baek Kitae who leads a double life as a smuggler and Jang Geonyoung, who is a prosecutor trying to stop him.

How many episodes are there in Season 1 of Made in Korea?

There are six episodes in Season 1 of Made in Korea?

Where can I watch Season 1 of Made in Korea?

You can watch Season 1 of Made in Korea on Hulu.

How many episodes are there in Made in Korea 2?

There are six episodes in Made in Korea 2.

Related: These 47 K-Dramas Are Worth Losing Sleep Over

Who stars in Made in Korea 2? Hyun Bin

Hulu

Hyun Bin as Baek Kitae

Popular South Korean actor Hyun Bin is best known for his work on series such as Secret Garden, Memories of Alhambra, and Crash Landing on You, the latter he starred opposite his now-wife, Son Ye-Jin.

Jung Woosung Jung Woosung as Jang Geonyoung

Jung Woosung started his entertainment career as a model before transitioning to acting. He has starred in films such as City of the Rising Sun, A Moment to Remember, and Innocent Witness, the latter garnering him a Best Actor awards at the Baeksang Arts Awards and the Blue Dragon Film Awards.

Related: Everything We Know So Far About Song Weilong’s New Series, ‘Love for You’

Woo Dohwan Woo Dohwan as Baek Kihyun

Woo Dohwan is best known for his work on such series as Mr. Plankton, Bloodhounds, and The King: Eternal Monarch.

When does Made in Korea 2 premiere?

Made in Korea 2 premieres with two episodes on Wednesday, Sep. 9 on Hulu. Two episodes drop weekly each Wednesday.

Related: He Voiced Jinu in ‘KPop Demon Hunters’—Now He’s Headlining Netflix’s Rom-Com, ‘Sold Out On You’

Is there a trailer for Made in Korea 2?

Yes! Check out the official trailer for Made in Korea 2 below.

Where can you watch Made in Korea 2?

Made in Korea 2 will stream exclusively in the US on Hulu. It will stream internationally on Disney+.

Next, 38 Chinese Dramas So Addictive, You’ll Finish Them Before You Sleep

If you’ve landed on this page, you’ve probably read about these concepts online, or you’re genuinely curious about the difference between oversharing and vulnerability (I know I am). While they can appear similar when initially thinking about them, it is important not to confuse these two things. It’s important to have a clear understanding of what each is, so you can correctly identify and work on navigating through them in your own life and/or help those around you to better manage their communication and relationships. 

Parade chatted with psychologists to learn more about the key differences between the two and the psychology behind each of the concepts. Since we know this scientific information can be a doozy to digest, we also created a table with key points that can help you better understand their differences. Our experts also provide us with a couple of steps you can follow to prevent yourself from sharing too much at times when it may not be warranted. 

While working through showing vulnerability and preventing yourself from oversharing can sometimes be a challenge, you will absolutely find it worth your while to land at a place where you can healthily express yourself.

Read on for more about the differences between oversharing and being vulnerable, according to psychologists.

Related: People Who Constantly Overshare Develop These 6 (Surprisingly) Positive Traits

The Core Distinction: What Is the Difference Between Vulnerability and Oversharing?

To understand how these two concepts are different, it’s important to break down their definitions. 

Vulnerability meaning

“Vulnerability is an openness to others based upon mutual trust and respect,” says Dr. Peter Vernig, PhD, the Vice President of Mental Health Services at Recovery Centers of America. “It is inviting connection through sharing things that we might keep private from others.”

Dr. Patricia Dixon, PsyD, a Florida-based psychologist, adds that people often let down their guard when expressing vulnerability, sometimes feeling more exposed than they otherwise would.

That said, Dr. Jennifer Dragonette, PsyD, Clinical Services Instructor at Newport Healthcare, notes that proper boundaries are generally adhered to when someone is choosing to be vulnerable. The other person is also usually consenting or eager to lend an ear to provide emotional support to the one asking for it.

One key point to make about vulnerability is that “vulnerability says, in essence, ‘I want to allow you to know something true about me,’” states Dr. Lauren A. Mahoney, PsyD, who is a Postdoctoral Psychologist at Authentically Living Psychological Services, PLLC, a relational therapist and an Adjunct Assistant Professor of Psychology at the City University of New York. Maintaining boundaries is a core component of vulnerability.

Dr. Simon A. Rego, PsyD—the Chief Psychologist at Montefiore Einstein and Associate Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at our Albert Einstein College of Medicine—tells Parade that people generally ask themselves internal questions before sharing something vulnerable, such as how well they know the receiver, whether or not the setting is appropriate and if the other person is appearing and acting like they want to and are ready to listen or support. 

Oversharing meaning

On the other hand, oversharing usually neglects boundaries for both the oversharer and the listener.

“Oversharing entails providing information to others that was unnecessary and typically makes the other feel uncomfortable,” explains Dr. Dixon.

Additionally, people tend to reveal too much or trauma dump to achieve an objective.

“Oversharing can sometimes say, ‘I need something to happen because I told you this,’” Dr. Mahoney says.

The person listening to this dump of intel usually feels overwhelmed by the amount of information. It can sometimes also be carried out in situations where the context does not warrant oversharing, making the encounter feel awkward—and nobody wants that, especially if they’re not ready for what type of information they’re about to process.

“If you overshare, then the payoff again is relief from whatever was contained in the anxiety, the stress, the tension, but that can unfortunately become quickly followed by things like regret or embarrassment or now anxiety because I’ve exposed myself,” says Dr. Rego. 

Related: Psychologist Says if You Hate Silence in Conversations, You Likely Have These 7 Traits

The Psychology of Oversharing: Why Do We Feel the Urge To Do It?

Getty Images

“I would say oversharing is largely rooted in an internal need to feel heard and cared for,” Dr. Dixon states. “In many ways it has an often unconscious motivation to gain sympathy from others.”

With this in mind, the root causes of oversharing can vary depending on the person and their circumstances. That said, Dr. Vernig notes that people sometimes share too much or trauma dump as a way of coping and self-soothing when they don’t know how to process a feeling or emotion.

“An anxious attachment style may also lead someone to equate intense self-disclosure with intimacy,” he adds. “This can lead them to use oversharing to attempt to force an interpersonal bond prematurely.”

He notes that trauma can sometimes cause people to expose too much to test the people in their life to determine whether or not they are “safe.”

There’s no need to fear if you’re a chronic oversharer (like me), as there are things you can do to work on appropriate disclosure and avoid revealing too much.

“If you see it as a recurrent issue, where what the way you you share with people seems to inadvertently drive the very support they’re seeking away from you, and it seems to be a pattern that’s causing impairment in your ability to make social connections with other people, or distressing you a great deal, that’s always a good reason to to go and seek mental health support because there are skills that one can learn to manage those things much better,” Dr. Rego suggests.

Related: Making New Friends as an Adult Isn’t Easy—Here Are 102 Expert-Backed Ways To Do Just That

‘Floodlighting’ vs. True Connection: The Brené Brown Perspective

If you’ve done any other research on this topic before (even if on social media), you likely have encountered the term “floodlighting,” as this phenomenon attributed to Brené Brown can sometimes come into play.

“Floodlighting refers to using an intense level of personal disclosure in a way that can overwhelm another person or test a relationship,” Dr. Mahoney tells Parade. “I think the metaphor captures something psychologically important because disclosure can create intensity without creating intimacy.”

Dr. Vernig adds that floodlighting generally happens too early in the stages of building a relationship and trust with another person. Dr. Dixon points out that it can come off as something positive, but really isn’t.

“Floodlighting often occurs in dating relationships, and somewhat could be mistaken as vulnerability intended to bridge closeness, is actually a form of love bombing that results in a forced connection or false intimacy,” she says.

True connection, on the other hand, often follows a more gradual progression. She adds that relationships built on the foundation of floodlighting tend to be more one-sided, whereas relationships with true connection are two-sided and often symbiotic in nature. 

Related: The #1 Daily Habit That Cures Loneliness Fast, According to a Psychologist

Vulnerability vs. Oversharing: A Quick-Reference Guide

We spoke with Dr. Rego to create this quick-reference guide to help you visualize and categorize the differences between vulnerability and oversharing: 

Attribute

True Vulnerability

Oversharing/Trauma Dumping

The core goal

Genuine connection.

Emotional relief/discharge of tension or anxiety.

The audience

People who can be trusted and are emotionally safe. Can be a friend, partner or a loved one.

Usually determined by how the sharer is momentarily feeling. It’s less selective. 

The boundaries

Understanding the context, time, reasons and receiving individual(s). 

Boundaries are generally blurred.

The feeling after

Understanding and relief.

Regret, embarrassment and anxiety.

How To Stop Oversharing: 3 Steps To Build Healthier Boundaries

While you may feel that it is difficult to stop oversharing (so relatable), our experts recommend three steps you can follow to help you maintain better boundaries for yourself and the people in your life 

Step 1: Identify your emotion

Dr. Dragonette notes that when people overshare, it is often because they are trying to express an emotion they can’t quite pin down and process.

“Before sharing something highly personal, take a moment to ask, ‘What am I feeling right now, and what do I need?'” she states. 

Step 2: Consider your receiver

Even though you might be tempted to spill the beans to whoever is closest to you, taking the time to reflect on who you’re telling your information to is important.

“Take a close look at the relationship (the duration, the level of trust, the context) and assess if it is really deep enough for what you are about to share,” states Dr. Vernig. 

Step 3: Ask permission

Dr. Dixon notes that asking permission is a good practice to get into the habit of doing.

“By asking permission to share something personal and deep, it prepares the individual to hear you without feeling like you are dumping your intense feelings, thoughts or experiences on them,” she shares.

Asking for permission can make all of the difference, as the last thing you want is for someone in your life (whether you’re super close to them or not) to start resenting you for dumping (sometimes trauma dumping) onto them when they don’t have the capacity or bandwidth to be there for you in the way that you’d need or like for them to be.

Up Next:

Related: Psychologists Rank the 10 Most Emotionally Healthy Daily Habits

Sources:

• Dr. Simon A. Rego, PsyD, is Chief Psychologist at Montefiore Einstein and Associate Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at our Albert Einstein College of Medicine.
• Dr. Peter Vernig, PhD, is a licensed psychologist and the Vice President of Mental Health Services at Recovery Centers of America.
• Dr. Patricia Dixon, PsyD, is a Florida-based psychologist. 
• Dr. Jennifer Dragonette, PsyD, is a Clinical Services Instructor at Newport Healthcare.
• Dr. Lauren A. Mahoney, PsyD, is a Postdoctoral Psychologist at Authentically Living Psychological Services, PLLC, a relational therapist and an Adjunct Assistant Professor of Psychology at the City University of New York. 

The second night of Live Shows for America’s Got Talent featured performances from the 11 artists hoping to be voted through by America to make the semifinals: Bety, Brad & Tracy, Butter & Grit, Come Here, Geno Ploeger, La Russell, Mackenzie Sol, Nene Royal, Nyjah Music & Zyah Rhythm, Patrox, and Veronika Goroshkova.

Three of them will make it through on America’s vote; seven of them will come to the end of their AGT journey this season, and one lucky artist – Nene Royal — last night received the judge’s Golden Buzzer from Mel B that put her directly into the finale.

Here’s our spoiler-filled recap of who went home on America’s Got Talent Season 21 in 2026 tonight.

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Who went home tonight on America’s Got Talent Season 21 in 2026? Bety
Brad & Tracy
Butter & Grit
La Russell
Mackenzie Sol
Nyjah Music  & Zyah Rhythm
Patrox Who went through on AGT tonight to the semifinals? Come Here
Geno Ploeger
Veronika Goroshkova Who went through to the finale courtesy of the Golden Buzzer on AGT? Nene Royal

Related: Who Shredded Her Way Into Mel B’s America’s Got Talent 2026 Live Golden Buzzer Tonight?

America’s Got Talent Night 1 Results Show Recap

After a recap of Tuesday night’s performances, Nene thanked everyone for their support and talked about her hard work preparing for the night.. She called it a “dream come true” to receive the Golden Buzzer.

The entertainment portion of the night began with last season’s Steve Ray Ladson performing “About to Go Down” with the legendary Robert Randolph. They were followed by War & Treaty performing “Country Baptism.”

Then it was time for host Terry Crews to get ready for the real business of the night: the results of America’s vote.

He first called to the stage Brad & Tracy and Butter & Grit to get the reveal of who made it through to the Top 5. It was Butter & Grit.

The second artists called to the stage were La Russelland Veronika Goroshkova.Not much of a contest because La Russell didn’t get rave reviews on Tuesday night, but Veronika did, so not a surprise when Terry announced her name.

The third group called to the stage was Patrox and Come Here. The next act in the Top 5 was Come Here.

After a commercial break, the results continued with teen musicians Nyjah Music  & Zyah Rhythm facing off against magician Gefno Ploeger.

Related: America’s Got Talent Golden Buzzer Winner Mackenzie Sol Fears 14 Million Followers Won’t Be Enough for Live Shows (Exclusive)

Finally, it was singers Bety vs Mackenzie Sol. Terry revealed that it was Mackenze Sol  who made the Top 5.

 So, the five acts that will be whittled down to three are: country musicians Butter & Grit, aerialist Veronika Goroshkova, dance troupe Come Here, magician Geno Ploeger, and soulful singer Mackenzie Sol.

The first act moving on to the semifinals is Veronika Goroshkova. She said, “I feel amazing. Thank you so much for voting for me. I feel so much love.” The second spot in the semifinals was filled by Come Here. They said, “Thank you, America.”

The final artist moving on to the semifinals as revealed by Terry was Geno Ploeger, who said, “Thank you very much. You don’t know how much of a dream you’ve been to me.”

America’s Got Talent airs Tuesday nights at 8 p.m. ET/PT on NBC. Streams next day on Peacock.

Next, America’s Got Talent 2026 Live Show Acts Revealed: Who Made the Cut After Big Format Shake-Up?

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From cakes to casseroles, side dishes to sweet treats, Martha Stewart has established herself as a timeless authority in the kitchen. While we’d all happily sign up for one-on-one cooking classes with Martha herself, the next best thing might be bringing her expertise (and, more importantly, her eye for a beautiful table) home through her housewares collection.

As we head towards fall baking season, the Martha Stewart Empress Bouquet 2-Piece Bakeware Set has caught our eye. The blue-and-white design has the kind of old-world look that could easily pass for a genuine antique. This find’s price is looking especially pretty; usually $85, it’s now marked down 53% to $40 at JCPenney. Even better, for a limited time, entering code SPELLING in your cart takes an additional 10% off the sale price, bringing the duo down to just $36.

Martha Stewart Empress Bouquet 2-Piece Bakeware Set, $36 (was $85) at JCPenney

Courtesy of JCPenney

Shop at JCPenney

Blue-and-white dishware has been a table staple for decades, and this “beautiful” and “vintage” inspired two-piece stoneware bakeware set gives the familiar combination a pretty chinoiserie twist. Delicate blue florals wind across the creamy white exterior, with wispy stems, leaves, buds, and full blooms layered together in a pattern that has the look of hand-painted china. Smaller floral groupings continue inside each dish, adding another detail when the bakers are sitting empty on the table.

The set includes an 8-inch square baker and a 9-by-13-inch rectangular baker, so you have two practical sizes for different recipes. The smaller dish works well for brownies, baked dips, side dishes, and smaller desserts, while the larger has room for casseroles, cobblers, lasagna, and other family-style favorites. Both are made from durable stoneware designed to distribute heat evenly, with wide built-in handles on either end that make it easier to get a secure grip when moving a hot dish.

Both baking dishes are oven-safe up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, microwave-safe, and dishwasher-safe, though hand washing is recommended to help preserve the finish. Between the two sizes, you can keep them in regular rotation for everything from weeknight sides to holiday casseroles, with the smaller baker handling individual recipes and the 9-by-13-inch dish ready when the guest list gets longer.

Shop More Deals

• Martha Stewart 2-Piece Non-Stick Baker Set, $36 (was $65) at JCPenney
• Jenny Martinez Ceramic Large Baker, $18 (was $40) at JCPenney
• Martha Stewart Harvest 9-inch Large Baker, $31 (was $80) at JCPenney

Related: Pyrex Has Been the ‘Gold Standard’ of Glass Bakeware Since 1915, and You Can Snag a 2-Piece Set for Just $12

If you’ve ever wished your bakeware had a little more to bring to the table, the Martha Stewart Empress Bouquet 2-Piece Bakeware Set makes a strong case for retiring those plain old pans. Use code SPELLING to score the already-discounted set for just $36 at JCPenney!

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

Beyoncé will donate $1 million to aid relief efforts in Colombia following the destructive earthquake earlier this month.

The singer-songwriter’s personal donation will provide food and housing supplies to those in areas affected by the 7.4-magnitude earthquake, according to a release from Parkwood Entertainment.

The earthquake hit Chocó, Colombia, on August 10. So far, at least 312 people have been killed, and 29,000 homes have been destroyed, as reported by the AP. According to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, roughly 10 percent of the city’s population, or 69,000 people, have been displaced by the natural disaster.

Beyoncé is one of many public figures who have donated and encouraged others to help. Shakira, who grew up in Colombia, committed $1.25 million to help rebuild schools. She also met with Chocó’s governor and mayor to discuss the earthquake’s destruction.

“These past few days, I’ve watched my country suffer, but I’ve also watched people come together with the resilience and solidarity that has always defined us,” Shakira told Variety in a statement.

Adding, “Schools are more than buildings. They give children the stability and routine they need most after a disaster. That’s why we’re making an initial $1.25 million commitment to help rebuild schools and get children back into their classrooms. Chocó is not alone. Colombia is not alone. And we will keep going.”

Colombian singer Karol G donated $1.2 million through her Con Cora Foundation. She performed at the Colombia: Voces por la Vida benefit concert. The event included appearances by over 30 artists such as Maluma, Eladio Carrión, Greeicy, Draco Rosa, and Sebastián Yatra. The concert raised over 11 billion Colombian pesos, about $3.6 million, to support relief efforts.

Karol G performed via live stream and opened up about how she felt to see the disaster while away.

“Many of us — most of us, maybe all of us — have found these days incredibly difficult, seeing how our people are going through such a tough situation. We feel frustrated; it feels selfish to sleep, it feels wrong to be far away,” she said, according to Billboard.

“At the same time, it’s been incredible to see how, in moments like these, we show who we are and what we Colombians are made of: love, solidarity, empathy, tolerance, the ability to come together, to support one another, to unite and to live as a community.”

Sarah J. Maas has another smash on her hands, and it hasn’t even hit the shelves yet. A Court of Splintered Harmony, the sixth book in Maas’ A Court of Thorns and Roses series, is currently sitting in the No. 2 spot on Amazon’s most-sold fiction chart—eight whole weeks before its release.

The highly anticipated novel is slated to drop on Oct. 27, 2026, marking the return of ACOTAR after a five-year wait, with a seventh installment, A Court of Forgotten Melody, already scheduled for January 2027.

‘ACOTAR’ Book Series in Order

• A Court of Thorns and Roses, 2015
• A Court of Mist and Fury, 2016
• A Court of Wings and Ruin, 2017
• A Court of Frost and Starlight, 2018
• A ​Court of Silver Flames, 2021
• A Court of Splintered Harmony, 2026
• A Court of Forgotten Melody, 2027

The bestselling romantasy author addressed the lengthy hiatus on an episode of Alex Cooper’s Call Her Daddy podcast earlier this year, saying that book six was a long time coming, but that she first needed to be in the right headspace to write the next installment of the saga that belongs to Feyre Archeron and the magical world of the Fae. Still, once she found it, the book “poured out of her.”

Related: Sarah J. Maas Teases Major ‘ACOTAR 6’ News in ‘Call Her Daddy’ Clip

“It took me a while to find the right story and find the right headspace,” she said back in March. “What poured out of me was this, and it poured out of me very quickly.”

View this post on Instagram

This month, Maas revealed their forthcoming books’ titles and covers, with A Court of Forgotten Melody scheduled for Jan. 12, 2027. That title is also already appearing on Amazon’s most-sold fiction chart, where it sits at No. 4 with five weeks on the survey.

For now, A Court of Splintered Harmony ranks higher, with fans ready to devour what Maas has in store.

Without giving too much away, Maas and her publisher, Bloomsbury, shared a blurb about its plot, revealing that Koschei the Deathless is stirring—his threat spreading across the Fae territories and threatening the human lands.

Meanwhile, the Night Court is dealing with internal divisions and betrayals, but “to survive, they must find a way to repair the splintered harmony all around them,” the synopsis reads.

With the forthcoming release, Maas’ Instagram page has been rebranded, per Today, to coordinate with books six and seven. The social media platform currently hosts just two posts: one image showing book six with the caption, “What was broken will be remade,” and another image of book seven with the caption, “What was lost will be reclaimed.”

And lastly, for those keeping record, the Maasverse now contains 16 books across three series: ACOTAR, Throne of Glass, and Crescent City.

Related: Best-Selling Author’s 1952 Novel, Now a Netflix Series, Ranked Best American Novel of the Last 100 Years

Tim Curry died at age 80 on Aug. 25, 2026, and left behind a legacy that will far outlive his mortal coil.

The iconic actor particularly reveled in playing villains, and there’s a reason why he did it so well.

“I’ve always tried to make [my villains] amusing, which gives them a bit more edge,” he explained to The Guardian. “It’s like people being drawn to the scene of a car crash. They’re drawn to extreme behavior … I think people secretly long to be a bit more explosive or act out much more.”

From a cardinal to a creepy clown to a concierge to Clue and beyond, look back at Tim Curry’s best roles throughout his five-decade career.

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Tim Curry’s Best Roles 16. Herkermer Homolka, Congo Tim Curry as Herkermer Homolka in “Congo”

Paramount Pictures

Curry clearly had a lot of fun chewing the scenery as a sketchy philanthropist in Congo. He delivered the perfect amount of drama, mystery and greedy white savior in the role, which a lesser actor may have played completely straight (read: boring).

15. Robert Graves, The Shout Robert Stephens and Tim Curry (as Robert Graves) in “The Shout”

Rank Film Distributors

The horror movie The Shout (1978), based on Robert Graves‘ short story of the same name, isn’t necessarily the scariest piece of cinema in the world, but Curry managed to have a star turn as the author in a role that gave him little to do and elevated the material as a whole.

14. Bill Sikes, Oliver Twist

Curry took on the criminal role of Bill Sikes in the 1982 TV movie adaptation of Oliver Twist and did what he always does: Played a bad guy so deliciously, you almost had to root for him in spite of your conscience constantly reminding you that he’s evil.

13. Professor Oldman, Scary Movie 2 David Cross as Dwight and Tim Curry as Professor Oldman in “Scary Movie 2”

Dimension Films

Listen, was it Oscar bait? No, and it doesn’t matter. If nothing else, playing Professor Oldman in Scary Movie 2 showed that Curry didn’t take himself too seriously.

Related: Tim Curry Once Revealed 4 Major Movie Roles He Wanted but Didn’t Get

12. William Shakespeare, Will Shakespeare Tim Curry was William Shakespeare in “Will Shakespeare”

Walt Disney Television Photo Archives / Getty Images

This 1978 miniseries starred Curry as the titular playwright, poet and greatest wordsmith of the English language—and was pretty edgy for its time, thanks in part to its portrayal of Shakespeare being in a same-sex romantic entanglement with the Earl of Southampton.

Related: Inside Tim Curry’s Health Battles Over the Years

11. Dr. Yevgeniy Petrov, The Hunt for Red October Tim Curry as Dr. Yevgeni Petrov in “The Hunt for Red October”

Paramount Pictures

In a stacked cast with a stellar script based on a killer book, every performance in The Hunt for Red October is great. It’s literally the only reason Curry’s didn’t stand out even more!

10. Cardinal Richelieu, The Three Musketeers Tim Curry as Cardinal Richelieu in “The Three Musketeers”

Disney

Disney’s film adaptation of The Three Musketeers generally is regarded as more memorable for its soundtrack (Sting, Rod Stewart and Bryan Adams‘ collaboration of “All for Love” was massive) than for the film itself. However, Curry as the crooked and decidedly un-Christlike Cardinal Richelieu stole every scene he shared with the actual sword-bearing stars Chris O’Donnell, Oliver Platt, Charlie Sheen and Kiefer Sutherland—and he did so while looking like a Renaissance painting.

9. Rooster Hannigan, Annie Tim Curry as Rooster Hannigan in “Annie”

Columbia Pictures/Getty Images

Curry so disappeared into the role of Rooster, Miss Hannigan’s equally dastardly brother, in Annie that a lot of fans of the film didn’t even realize it was him.

8. Mr. Hector (The Concierge), Home Alone 2: Lost In New York Dana Ivey, Tim Curry and Rob Schneider in “Home Alone 2: Lost In New York”

20th Century Studios

Curry had a great time as Mr. Hector (commonly just called “The Concierge”) in Home Alone 2: Lost In New York, but not necessarily behind the scenes, thanks to Donald Trump‘s involvement!

“He was very anxious to find Chris Columbus, the director,” Curry told The Guardian. “He said, ‘I’ve got to get Marla [Maples] to meet Chris Columbus because she’s a brilliant actress.’ And I thought, ‘Yeah, I’m sure.’”

He also said that Ivana Trump asked him about the hotel, which peeved him a bit.

“She knocked on my door and said, ‘Are you happy in your room? Do you like the way it looks?’” he recalled. “And I loathed it actually.”

7. The Lord of Darkness, Legend Mia Sara as Lili and Tim Curry as the Lord of Darkness in “Legend”

20th Century Studios

Honestly, this just made us want to worship Satan. Our bad, God!

6. Hexxus, FernGully: The Last Rainforest Tim Curry as Hexxus in “FernGully: The Last Rainforest”

20th Century Studios

Pollution is bad and fossil fuels are literally killing us every day, but Curry as Hexxus was so good.

5. Nigel Thornberry, The Wild Thornberrys

Curry voiced patriarch Nigel Thornberry in the beloved Nickelodeon animated series, which allowed him to be super silly and paternal at the same time.

4. Long John Silver, Muppet Treasure Island Tim Curry as Long John Silver with Kermit and Miss Piggy in “Muppet Treasure Island”

Disney

Curry embodied the cruel, crazy pirate captain in a role that rivals Michael Caine‘s Scrooge in A Muppet Christmas Carol—and he got even cheekier than viewers ever knew.

“I ad-libbed a line, because me and Piggy were supposed to have had some kind of affair long ago,” he told The Guardian in October 2025. The line, which was cut: “Well, I’ll tell you, Jim, once you’ve had pork, you never go back!”

Related: Tim Curry Once Shared the Mindset That Helped Him Through His Hardest Years

3. Wadsworth, Clue Tim Curry as Wadsworth in “Clue”

Paramount Pictures

Curry’s performance as butler Wadsworth in Clue was so “exhausting” for the actor that he was actually hospitalized for high blood pressure on the last day of filming.

“That was the day that we shot me running around, demonstrating each murder,” Curry told the Academy. “It was exhausting, and I was verkelmpt.”

Clue barely broke even at the box office, but went on to become a cult classic, thanks in part to airing frequently on Comedy Central over the next four decades.

2. Pennywise, Stephen King’s It

Bob D'Amico / Getty Images

Curry was horrifying as Pennywise in the 1990 TV movie miniseries adaptation of Stephen King‘s It, and his performance is as chilling now as it was back then (despite the graphics being a lot better for Bill Skarsgard‘s take on the character!).

In fact, it was so scary that Curry himself was so creeped out that he almost didn’t take on the role. He wrote in his memoir Vagabond that he was scared of clowns (relatable!), noting, “In any case, the thought of embodying this killer clown made me feel simultaneously uncomfortable and like I would be pushing myself to take it on.”

Related: The Best and Worst Stephen King Movies, Ranked

1. Dr. Frank-N-Furter, The Rocky Horror Picture Show Tim Curry as Dr. Frank-N-Furter with Nell Campbell as Columbia and Patricia Quinn as Magenta in “The Rocky Horror Picture Show”

Michael Ochs Archives / Getty Images

Oh, come on. From the makeup to the dancing to the killer line delivery, he is a sweet transvestite from transsexual Transylvania.

That said, Curry almost played the part very differently.

“I played Frank-N-Furter as though he was German. I was Dr. Frank-N-Furter, and everything was very interesting and stupid. And then, one day, I heard a woman on a bus saying, ‘Do you have a house in town or a house in the country?’ And I thought, ‘Yes, he should sound like the Queen,'” he recalled to NPR’s Fresh Air. “So that’s how it happened. It just started in this tiny theater, you know, and it just took off like a sort of rocket.”

He dreamed it. He was it.

Related: Tim Curry’s Net Worth at Time of Death and How the Legendary Actor Earned It

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If you spend any time in the kitchen, it doesn’t take long to identify the upgrades you need to elevate the space. From creative storage solutions to stylish and versatile cookware, the right tools can not only make your kitchen look great but also streamline the process, whether you’re prepping meals for the week, cooking dinner for the night or bringing order to a cluttered countertop.

This week, Sam’s Club is selling a must-have kitchen upgrade that perfectly captures the charming nature of fall. Retailing for just $16.96, the Member’s Mark 4-Pack Mini Embossed Fall Cocottes come in two harvest-themed designs, each just as fun to cook with as they are to look at on your counter. Available in-store and online, this affordable set is a valuable asset in any home cook’s cookware collection.

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Member’s Mark 4-Pack Mini Embossed Fall Cocottes, $16.96 at Sam’s Club

Sam's Club

Shop It!

Bringing a touch of warmth and elegance to your kitchen and dinner table, this Member’s Mark 4-piece seasonal stoneware mini cocottes set features a handcrafted, embossed design, each with a unique fall theme depicting delicate pumpkins or rustic pinecones. Available in four festive colors, this whimsical fall lineup effortlessly complements any table spread. 

Hitting shelves in Harvest and Acorn styles, there’s no shortage of beautiful colors and fall themes you can inject into your cooking routine. Crafted from high-quality stoneware, they’re also extremely durable and oven-safe up to 450°F, making them ideal for baking individual soufflés, pot pies, or crème brûlée. They’re also microwave-, freezer- and dishwasher-safe, allowing for full peace of mind no matter what meal you’re creating.

Related: Costco’s 2-Tier Mesh Organizer Is a Game Changer for Cluttered Spaces

Sam's Club

“Cute as can be for my Thanksgiving table,” one shopper raved in a review. “At this price, I will probably buy a second set and use them for some special desserts.”

“So fun to use. I love these little cocottes,” another fan chimed in. “They were perfect for baking individual apple crisps and the lids gave an added touch,” they shared. The shopper added that the pumpkin designs were “great for fall” and said they “can’t wait to use them more.”

A third shopper gave the set a “10/10” rating, calling the cocottes “perfect for single servings” and commending them for being “nice and sturdy with great colors.”

With a compact, seven-ounce size, cool-touch handles and a nifty, stackable design, these mini cocottes are a satisfying balance of portion control, creative serving opportunities and charming fall themes. Be sure to snatch up your favorite style while it’s still in stock, as that $17 price tag is only going to sweeten the deal for those currently inspired to kick off a fall refresh. 

While you’re there, check out Sam’s Club’s Decorative Harvest Pumpkins and 3-Wick Scented Candle for creative decor ideas to pair with your new cookware set.

Related: Aldi Is Selling a Rustic $12 Essential Designed for Morning Luxury

Halloween is almost here, and SunnyD is celebrating with a frightfully fantastic new mystery flavor!

The beloved brand’s limited-edition SpookyD beverage drops this fall, giving fans the chance to decide for themselves what the scary good drink really tastes like. Yes, that’s right. This mix is a total mystery. And that means it will leave you guessing. 

Chief Marketing Officer, Harvest Hill Beverage Company, Randi Jachino said, in a press release, “Halloween is all about embracing the unexpected, and SpookyD brings that spirit to life in a way only SunnyD can.”

The SpookyD mystery flavor arrives in Walmart stores nationwide just in time for Halloween. Photo: Harvest Hill Beverage Company

Jachino continued, “We’ve created a beverage that’s more than just a seasonal offering—it’s an experience. Whether you’re hosting friends, celebrating with family, or simply getting into the Halloween spirit, SpookyD adds a little mystery and a lot of fun to the occasion.” 

Where can shoppers get the new limited-edition SpookyD mystery flavor? 

Things are getting mysterious at Walmart this August. That’s right, the superstore is the exclusive SpookyD retailer. Shoppers can snap up 18-packs of 6.75-ounce bottles or one-gallon jugs while supplies last. But don’t wait to try this un-boo-lievable beverage. The Halloween-themed drink is only in stores this fall.

Look for the brand’s special haunted-house and friendly-ghost packaging nationwide right now. 

Will SunnyD reveal the Halloween mystery flavor this fall?

Is it just like classic SunnyD? Does it have a tangy twist? Will it taste like candy corn? We’re not telling, and neither is the brand. If you’re waiting for a big reveal, get ready for a major disappointment. 

SunnyD is leaving the sleuthing up to you—the customer. But they do want to know if you solve the mystery. Just tag @sunnydofficial on social media with your best guess! 

Fans of the flavor are already sharing their thoughts on Instagram. When the @candyhunting account revealed a pic of the new bottle at Walmart, commenters jumped on the post, guessing, “It’s going to be candy corn flavored”, “Is it pumpkin spice flavor?”, “Tastes like lemon Sunny D,” and “I hope it’s marshmallow.”

The 1990s were memorable for a number of reasons. From epic toys and cool cars to hilarious sitcoms and everything in between, the decade was full of entertaining moments. It’s always difficult to pinpoint just one standout piece of innovation during any given decade, but a handful of experts we spoke with say a gaming system was the most iconic invention of the ’90s.

We’re talking about the original 1994 Sony PlayStation, which played a huge role in the evolution of gaming in the 1990s. If you’ve ever been curious about PlayStation 1 history and wondered how it became one of the most iconic ’90s inventions, you’re in luck because we’re taking a look back at how the PlayStation changed gaming.

Parade spoke with a range of experts who specialize in gaming history to better understand why the PlayStation was the defining tech of the 1990s. We asked them to share the origins of the PS1 and outline how Sony’s branding captured ’90s youth culture. They also dive into the technology of the gaming system and explain how the CD-ROM and 3D graphics killed the cartridge era.

Whether you’ve been a fan of PlayStation for decades or are a new gamer, you’ll be amazed by the journey the brand took to release its first gaming system.

Related: 7 Inventions That Failed Spectacularly

The 1994 Revolution: Why Historians Call the PlayStation the Defining Tech of the ’90s

When Sony released the PlayStation, the brand was hardly new to the video game industry.

“Sony was one of the manufacturers of the MSX computer line in Japan, releasing over a decade earlier in 1983,” Andrew Borman, Director of Digital Preservation at The Strong National Museum of Play, tells Parade. “Beyond the MSX, Sony, through branches like Imagesoft, developed and published games on both Sega and Nintendo hardware. Sony even contributed to the SHVC-SOUND system on the SNES, led by Ken Kutaragi, who would later lead the design of the PlayStation.”

The PS1 had a phased rollout and was first released in Japan in December 1994. The following year, it became available in the U.S. in September 1995, followed by Europe later that month. It quickly became the defining tech of the ’90s.

“The PlayStation had the right price and the right ecosystem at the right time,” video game lawyer Kirk Sigmon says. “Right at the tail-end of the dominance of 2D consoles like the SNES and the Genesis, there was a strong demand for 3D console games and, generally, something new. After all, PC gaming was exploding with innovation (and 3D games), leaving console games slightly behind.”

It also helped that the PS1 was able to step in after the failure of another 3D gaming system.

“Sega tried to explore the 3D gaming field with the Saturn, but they made a lot of little mistakes that doomed the system,” Sigmon explains. “It came in at $399, was essentially insta-dropped on the market with little lead-up or fanfare, had middling launch titles and was hard to develop for.”

On the other hand, the PS1 retailed for $299 and had several other benefits.

“The PlayStation was affordable, had tons of games for virtually every type of gamer, was easy to develop for and just had a sort of ‘it’ factor,” he says.

In some ways, Sony’s PS1 shifted gaming from a “children’s toy” market into a multi-billion-dollar adult entertainment industry. Part of this was due to the age of the gaming consumer base when the console launched.

“The PlayStation launched at a time when a large quantity of children had grown up with simpler 2D consoles, like the Nintendo Entertainment System and Sega Genesis,” video game lawyer states. “That meant that there was already a veritable army of possible consumers with relatively more disposable income and with slightly more adult tastes.”

Sony targeted that demographic by allowing a wider variety of games.

“That variety did a lot of the work: there were literally thousands of PS1 games developed in the same time period that there were only a couple hundred N64 games developed,” he adds.

Related: This 1990s Backyard Game Still Teaches Kids Teamwork Better Than Most Apps

From a Broken Nintendo Deal to Global Dominance: The Origin of PS1

Andreas Rentz/Bongarts/Getty Images

If you’re an avid gamer, you’ve likely heard about the failed partnership between Nintendo and Sony that led to the release of the PS1. Per Sigmon, the infamous story is actually pretty simple.

“The two parties worked together to explore a CD-based console, the relationship deteriorated (although the particular story behind that differs based on who tells it) and Sony decided to strike out on their own and develop the PlayStation,” he says.

According to Business Insider, Sony first announced the “Play Station,” which the publication describes as a “CD-ROM addition to Nintendo’s wildly popular Super Nintendo game console,” in 1991. Sony and Nintendo were supposed to work together for the release. However, Nintendo announced a partnership with Sony’s rival, Philips, the next day.

Following the announcement, Sony would later release the PlayStation, which didn’t have a space between the words “play” and “station,” like the original product was supposed to. In 2020, the only remaining “Play Station” prototype that was developed by both brands sold for $360,000 at an auction by Heritage Auctions.

The timeline of the Sony x Nintendo ‘Play Station’ that never was

Several New York Times articles from 1991 outline the timing of events that created a rivalry between the two companies.

One article dated June 1, 1991, reported that Sony had announced on May 31, 1991, that it would “enter the game market with a machine based on the latest Nintendo technology.”

“Sony’s system will not only play Nintendo game cartridges but also games on compact disks,” the article read.

Per the publication, Sony’s machine (the “Play Station”) was developed with Nintendo and added a compact disk player to a new Nintendo system.

“Because the Play Station incorporates Nintendo’s new machine, Sony is making the machines under license from Nintendo. Sony has supplied computer chips to Nintendo for several years,” the article reported.

As The New York Times explained, Sony had a 1988 agreement with Nintendo under which Sony “retained all licensing rights for any compact disk game developed for the new system.” Nintendo was also allowed to “introduce its own machines incorporating compact disk players.”

Before Sony announced the “Play Station” device, there were reports that Nintendo and Philips were “considering collaborating on a compact disk-based game machine.”

Another New York Times article dated June 9, 1991, said Sony “would be adding a compact disk player to Nintendo’s new video game machine, the Super NES.”

“Sony said that a contract it signed with Nintendo last year to develop the Play Station gave it the rights to profits from compact disk games made for it,” the article said.

This was surprising to some because, as the New York Times stated, Nintendo had previously “maintained tight control over profits from games played on its machines.”

“The disclosure that the leader in the video game business had ceded the rights to profits from the compact disk games shocked industry executives,” it continued.

The day after Sony announced the “Play Station” device, Nintendo announced a contract with Philips “to make a competing machine.”

“The move was widely seen as an attempt by Nintendo to enter the compact disk market on more favorable terms,” the article shared.

And yet another article from The New York Times dated June 3, 1991, describes how Nintendo “created a stir when it said it was joining forces with Philips” at the Consumer Electronics Show.

“Under the deal, Philips technology will be used to produce an add-on device for Nintendo game players, allowing them to use optical compact disks, which have far greater storage capacities than game cartridges. These new game players will also be more powerful than current models, offering more complexity, better sound and rich graphics,” the article said.

Per the publication, Sony had previously announced an agreement with Nintendo. At the time, industry executives said Nintendo moved forward with Philips “to negate the unfavorable impact of its arrangement with Sony.”

“Under that deal, Sony has the right to sell and profit from the game disks. Nintendo, however, is disputing how broad that right is. The companies are expected to try to settle their differences through negotiation,” the article read.

However, Senior Vice President of Nintendo of America Howard C. Lincoln said Nintendo opted to work with Philips for “technical reasons,” per The New York Times.

When Nintendo publicly backed out of the deal it had made with Sony, the brand decided to pivot.

“With their relationship broken with Nintendo, and a failed attempt to work with Sega, Sony would ultimately decide to produce their own platform, with the PlayStation releasing in Japan in December 1994,” Borman, of The Strong National Museum of Play, tells Parade.

Sony engineer Ken Kutaragi, aka the “Father of PlayStation,” convinced the company to build their own standalone console, per The New York Times.

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How the CD-ROM and 3D Graphics Killed the Cartridge Era

Michael L. Abramson/Getty Images

Before the PlayStation’s debut, many games were released in the form of cartridges. Sony wasn’t the first company to explore the use of CD-ROMs, but Borman says they were “the most successful” in the CD-ROM console revolution.

“NEC’s PC Engine CD-ROM² add-on released in 1988, six years before the PlayStation,” he shares, adding that Sega and Philips launched CD-ROM hardware before PlayStation.

He notes that Sony’s key to success was bringing in developers worldwide “with a dedicated console that had top-end console hardware, including graphics and sound.”

“Sony attracted big developers early on like Namco, with their Ridge Racer series becoming a defining title for the platform, along with titles like Capcom’s Resident Evil,” he says.

So, what was all the fuss about CD-ROMs versus cartridges anyway? As it turns out, there was a big difference.

“In addition to the larger storage offered by the format, CD-ROMs were also much cheaper and easier to manufacture than cartridges, contributing to developers like Square being able to release games with three or more discs loaded with high-quality music and full-motion video,” Borman explains. “Developers at Square have often cited the CD-ROM format as being a key deciding factor in deciding to develop for the platform and leaving Nintendo behind.”

Borman notes that other companies, like Konami, used the extra storage space for voice acting for games like Metal Gear Solid, which was harder to do on space-limited cartridges.

The shift from cartridges to CDs was a big change for the industry overall.

“CDs became a far more ideal platform for long-form, large-sized Japanese RPGs [role-playing games] that had lots of content, lengthy cutscenes and CD-quality music. It simply wasn’t economically feasible back then to develop games like that on cartridges,” Sigmon states.

Related: 8 Kitchen Gadgets Every ’90s Mom Had on Her Counter (That Actually Worked Better)

Beyond Gaming: How Sony’s Branding Captured ’90s Youth Culture

Chip Carter, a former internationally syndicated video game columnist at The Chicago Tribune and the Washington Post, says the PS1 design quickly became an “emblem” of ’90s youth culture.

“It was a changing of the guard. We had the music—the alt explosion led by Nirvana and Pearl Jam, the film and TV culture was changing—but ‘90s youth culture had something no one had ever had before. And wow, didn’t it certainly look like the future? Because it was,” he says, adding that gaming was the “leading driver” of the cool ’90s era.

Carter shares that Sony set itself apart from its competitors while marketing the PlayStation 1 by treating gaming “as if it wasn’t just for kids or teenagers.”

“The main thing that happened is adult gamers were finally able to come out of the closet. It wasn’t embarrassing anymore to be an adult gamer,” he notes.

Sigmon states that Sony has always tried to dip its toe into targeting younger gamers, but says its “bread and butter” has always been adult gamers.

“That’s in part due to the time in which the PS1 launched (lots of teenagers turning to the console after years of playing other consoles), the games that took advantage of the PS1 hardware (long Japanese RPGs targeted at older players that required CD-sized storage), and the like,” he says.

Sigmon notes that the PlayStation brand was “integral to the childhood and teenage lives of many adults today” and shares that the gaming console has had “long-reaching ramifications.”

“On one hand, the PlayStation (and, later, the Xbox) provided a valuable infusion of competition in the games industry that pushed all involved to make better consoles and better games,” he explains. “On the other hand, the good memories provided by PlayStation—the memories of the stories and ambiance of the games, the feeling of playing games with friends and even just the fun of enjoying early 3D games and CD-quality music on a console still have a lot of value today.”

Related: 14 Underrated ’90s Sitcoms You Probably Haven’t Thought About in Years

Where To Play Classic ’90s PlayStation Games Today

If you held onto your PS1 from the ’90s and it’s still functional, you can pop your PS1 games (in the form of CD-ROMs) right into the console. Many gaming stores across the country also sell old gaming systems (check out this one from DK Oldies for $84.99), as do individual sellers on eBay (we found one for $60 here).

Similar to Nintendo’s NES and SNES, the PlayStation Classic Console is a gaming console that comes loaded with 20 PS1 games already on it. It doesn’t feature a CD-ROM drive. You can purchase a PlayStation Classic Console online at a number of retailers, including Amazon ($119.49) and GameStop ($64.99). Keep in mind that the console is likely to be used since it was released in 2018. You can view the full list of games available on the console here.

If you own a PS4 or PS5, you can sign up for a PlayStation Plus Premium subscription tier, which has access to hundreds of PlayStation games. The subscription’s PS1 titles are limited, however.

Lastly, avid gamers often play older games via emulation. Per McNeely Law LLP, emulation “allows one computer system to replicate the functions of another,” and has become “an essential tool in preserving and experiencing classic video games.”

“In the context of video games, emulators allow modern devices such as PCs or smartphones to run games designed for older or different gaming consoles,” the law firm’s website reads.

The legality of gaming emulators is a bit complicated.

“Emulators themselves are not illegal; rather, it is their potential use for playing pirated games that raises legal concerns,” the law firm’s website reads.

Up Next:

Related: 10 Old-Fashioned Summer Activities Kids Still Love That Don’t Require a Screen

Sources:

• Andrew Borman is the Director of Digital Preservation at The Strong National Museum of Play.
• Chip Carter is a former internationally syndicated video game columnist at The Chicago Tribune and Washington Post.
• Kirk Sigmon is a video game lawyer.

The world grieves today over the loss of a true American hero. Dolly Parton consistently led her life by example, using her massive success through pop culture and music to give back to the people and communities that needed it most. Over the years, Parton created programs like Imagination Library, which has provided over 300 million free books to children. She also helped families recover from devastating wildfires in her native state of Tennessee, solidifying her generosity as just as much part of her legacy as her music.

The thing about Parton, though, is that her impact was never limited to just her charitable work. She spent more than six decades bringing folks together through her music, movies and charming personality, all while staying true to the Southern roots that shaped her as a kid.

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As someone who didn’t grow up listening to Dolly Parton’s music, when I did discover her, I was enamored not by just her hit singles, but her love for Southern comfort food as well. So when I came across Dolly Parton’s chicken cobbler recipe, I knew there’d be no better way to honor her life than by recreating it at home. And while it was my first time making it, with Parton’s music playing in the background and all the ingredients in front of me, I had the Queen of Country giving me enough confidence to jump right in.

Ingredients for Dolly Parton’s Chicken Cobbler

Courtesy Nathan Hutsenpiller

To get started, you’ll need non-stick cooking spray, ½ cup of butter, ½ cup of chopped onion, two cups of shredded rotisserie chicken, one 10-ounce bag of Birds Eye Steamfresh Mixed Vegetables and two cups of chicken broth. You’ll also need ¼ cup of cornstarch, one cup of half-and-half, one teaspoon of kosher salt, ¼ teaspoon of ground black pepper, one teaspoon of parsley flakes and ½ teaspoon of garlic powder. 

For the biscuit mix, you’ll need 16 ounces of boxed buttermilk biscuit mix, two cups of milk and two cups of shredded cheddar cheese. You’ll also need a 9- by 13-inch baking dish, mixing bowls, a saucepan and some measuring cups and spoons.

How to Make Dolly Parton’s Chicken Cobbler

Courtesy Nathan Hutsenpiller

For the easiest approach, the recipe can be broken down into four steps. Start by preheating the oven to 400°F and spraying the baking dish with cooking spray. Over on the stovetop, melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the diced onions and cook until soft, about three minutes.

Now, pour the chicken and vegetables evenly into the baking dish, followed by the melted butter and onions. Return the saucepan to the stove.

Courtesy Nathan Hutsenpiller

Next, whisk together the chicken broth and cornstarch, then pour the mixture into the saucepan. Bring it to a boil, stirring constantly until thickened. Now stir in the half-and-half, salt, pepper, garlic powder and parsley until evenly distributed. Remove the saucepan from the heat.

Courtesy Nathan Hutsenpiller

Lastly, stir together the biscuit mix, milk and cheese until just combined, then pour the biscuit mixture in an even layer over the vegetables inside the baking dish, followed by the sauce poured evenly over the biscuit mix.

Place the baking dish on the center rack in the oven, and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the biscuit mixture is fully cooked.

Courtesy Nathan Hutsenpiller

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What I Thought of Dolly Parton’s Chicken Cobbler

Courtesy Nathan Hutsenpiller

As a big fan of Dolly Parton, comfort food and all things hearty casseroles, I went into this recipe fairly confident that I would end up liking it. And while partway through the baking process I felt a slight bit of doubt as to whether I had recreated it properly, with a little bit of patience, I was rewarded with exactly what I expected a successfully baked chicken cobbler to be. 

Immediately upon first bite, I was reminded of chicken pot pie, only this version comes out looking more like a creamy, biscuit-topped casserole than a perfectly sealed pie. What starts as multiple soupy layers somehow emerges from the oven with firm, fluffy and crispy edges, while the biscuit topping becomes one with the creamy sauce that was poured over it.

Courtesy Nathan Hutsenpiller

The final product ends up being a dish that looks entirely different from how it started, with a soft, rich texture provided by the biscuits, a cheesy and creamy sauce, and plenty of chicken and vegetables tucked inside each bite.

Just like Parton, this recipe is guaranteed to bring you and your friends and family joy, with an easy process that is just as smooth as her music is to your ears. Now that I know how to make it, I’ll happily keep it in my rotation in honor of the Queen of Country, as its hearty, Southern nature will forever serve as a wholesome reminder of the type of person she was: generous, wholesome and always down to earth.

3 Tips for Making Dolly Parton’s Chicken Cobbler

Courtesy Nathan Hutsenpiller

Although this recipe and its ingredients are simple, these tips can help make sure you have consistent results every time.

1. Prep each ingredient before you get started.

This recipe comes together quickly, so having everything measured and ready to go will keep you from scrambling once you get started. Plus, it’ll help you streamline the process and ensure you don’t accidentally leave anything out.

2. Don’t panic if it needs more time to bake.

Depending on your oven and baking dish, the cobbler may need an extra 15 to 25 minutes in the oven before the biscuit layer is fully cooked and the filling has had enough time to set. Be patient and trust the process. So long as the casserole isn’t burning, don’t be afraid to give it some extra time if yours is still a bit saucy after the first 40 minutes.

3. Get creative with the ingredients.

Like a lot of casserole dishes, there’s always room for improvement based on your own tastes. This recipe calls for a frozen mix of corn, carrots, peas and green beans, but you can swap that out for fresh veggies or a different variety you’d like more. You can also add extra seasoning, more cheese on top or extra chicken inside for a heartier result. The beauty of a dish like this is that you can easily make a few minor changes and turn it into something that feels more uniquely yours.

Gone, But Never Forgotten

Courtesy Nathan Hutsenpiller

While Parton will be sorely missed, her music, personality and love for all things Southern comfort will live on forever. With a recipe like her chicken cobbler in your rolodex, you’ve got something you can whip up in just about an hour and instantly be reminded of what good, wholesome home cooking tastes like. Put on your favorite Dolly Parton album, and give it a try for yourself.

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It’s been more than two decades since Westlife released “I Lay My Love on You,” but the beloved Irish boy band’s hit is getting its second life.

The romantic 2000s song has recently found a new audience, climbing into the Top 10 on TikTok’s music charts and introducing the song to listeners who may not have been around when it was first released. The song was one of Westlife’s international hits during the height of their popularity, and its resurgence is bringing plenty of nostalgia along with it. Now, 26 years after its original release, “I Lay My Love on You” is proving that some love songs never really go out of style.

“I Lay My Love on You” was released as the fourth single from Westlife’s second studio album, Coast to Coast, in 2000. The song was recorded at Cheiron Studios in Stockholm and was written by Per Magnusson, David Kreuger and Jörgen Elofsson.

Despite Westlife being formed in Ireland, the record was not released in the United Kingdom or their home country due to the band wanting to expand their market into Asia and Australia. Most of the music video was filmed in Singapore and featured the band’s activities across South Korea and Japan.

Their resurgence two decades later

The song’s latest chapter, however, has little to do with its original run on the charts. Instead, “I Lay My Love on You” is finding a new audience online.

Over the past year, the song has been really popular on TikTok, specifically on #CoupleTok, a subculture and content category on the short-form video platform where romantic partners share videos about their relationships, daily lives and milestones. A remixed version of the audio has been used over four million times on various videos, lip-syncs and photo montages. Many of the videos posted were from users living in Southeast Asian countries like the Philippines and Indonesia, where Westlife has a strong fanbase.

In an interview on the radio show Kyle Meredith With… recorded in 2023, Westlife spoke about how their rise in America shocked them. Most of their fan base is in Europe and Asia, so when they announced their first North American tour at the time, they thought only six people would buy tickets to their show at Radio City Music Hall in New York City. Turns out, they sold 6000.

“We were walking down the street in New York, and someone yelled, ‘Oh my god, it’s Westlife!’” Kian Egan recalled. “And it wasn’t an Irish accent. That was an American.”

Kian Egan, Shane Filan and Nicky Byrne of Westlife attend the Royal Variety Performance at Royal Albert Hall on November 19, 2025 in London, England.

Samir Hussein/WireImage

Egan, Mark Feehily and Shane Filan were all students at Summerhill College in Ireland and were in a school production of Grease. They eventually formed a pop group with three other boys called Six as One in 1997, but it was renamed multiple times before settling on Westlife. After some forced lineup changes from their manager, in April 1999, Westlife released their debut single, “Swear It Again,” which instantly topped the charts for two weeks in the UK and Ireland. That same year, they released their first album, Westlife, and immediately followed it up the next year with Coast to Coast. Their fourth member, Nicky Byrne, joined via audition in 1998.

Since their formation, Westlife has released 12 studio albums, with their most recent LP being Wild Dreams in 2021. Since October 2025, they have been on their 25th Anniversary World Tour, which is set to go on until the end of the year and bleed into the summer of 2027. The tour currently comprises multiple dates and residencies across Ireland, the United Kingdom, Europe, Asia and Australia. A 13-night residency at Dublin’s 3Arena is set to start on Sept. 10, but Feehily will not be joining due to health issues.

In addition, the pop group released a career-spanning compilation album, 25 – The Ultimate Collection, on May 8, which includes a mix of new songs and their classic hits.

“You see the generations coming to the shows, people letting their hair down, people remembering the songs from their first kiss, the first dance, all those special things that music does,” Byrne told Sky News after Westlife performed the first two shows of the tour in London’s Royal Albert Hall. “Not even just for the fans – we’re having the time of our lives.”

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