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There is strong scientific research showing that what you eat impacts the brain. The MIND diet, Mediterranean diet and DASH diet have all been associated with a lower risk of cognitive decline and dementia.  

While much of this impact is cumulative and gradual, there are ways you might have noticed it firsthand. For example, you’ve probably found that it’s easier to concentrate after eating a balanced, nutrient-rich breakfast versus days when you skip a morning meal.

If you eat eggs regularly, you already have a powerhouse brain food as part of your diet. But depending on how you prepare them, you might not be getting as much nutrient value out of them as you could be. Here, a neurologist shares what he wants everyone to know about eggs and brain health. Plus, find out what foods to pair with your eggs to up the brain benefits even more.

Related: The Supplement Neurologists Say Is a Waste of Money for Brain Health

How Eating Eggs Regularly Supports Brain Health 

There isn’t just one nutrient in eggs that makes them a brain-supporting food; it’s the whole package. “The nutrients in eggs that are associated with brain health in general include choline, omega-3 fatty acids, lutein and zeaxanthin,” says Dr. Lona Sandon, PhD, RD, an associate professor of clinical nutrition at the UT Southwestern Medical Center.

Dr. Alexander Zubkov, MD, PhD, a neurologist and nutrition scientific medical advisory board member for 1MD, adds that eggs are one of the richest forms of choline, which the brain uses to produce acetylcholine, the neurotransmitter behind memory, focus and learning. 

Related: Neurologists Warn This Nightly Habit Could Be Secretly Shrinking Your Brain

Besides these immediate benefits, Dr. Zubkov notes that choline supports long-term brain health. “Choline is critical for maintaining myelin, the protective sheath around nerve fibers. When it degrades, cognition slows. Adequate choline intake is also linked to reduced risk of cognitive decline,” he explains. 

Eggs also contain tryptophan, a precursor to serotonin, which regulates mood. “When people say they feel sharper after a protein-rich breakfast, there’s real neurochemistry behind it,” Dr. Zubkov says.

Eggs are also high in saturated fats, specifically omega-3 fatty acids, which also support brain health. Dr. Sandon explains that omega-3s are needed for building healthy nerve cell membranes, regulating neurotransmitters and lowering inflammation. 

The lutein and zeaxanthin in eggs also support cognitive health. While you may know that these nutrients are important for eye health, Dr. Zubkov tells Parade that they also protect against oxidative stress in brain tissue over time.

Related: 23 Ways to Boost Your Brain and Keep Your Mind Sharp at Any Age

What a Neurologist Wants Everyone To Know About Eggs

As you can see, eggs are jam-packed with nutrients that support brain health both short-term (helping with focus, learning, memory and mood) and long-term (helping preserve memory and cognitive function). But if you really want to reap these benefits, there’s something Dr. Zubkov wants you to know: The yolky yellow part of eggs is where most of the nutrients are.

“The yolk is where all the brain benefits are—choline, lutein and DHA—and for decades we told people to discard it,” Dr. Zubkov tells Parade. “The fear around dietary cholesterol has been substantially walked back by science, but the egg white omelet habit persists. From a neurological standpoint, that’s a real missed opportunity. Eat the whole egg.”

It’s true that people with cardiovascular disease (or high-risk for it) do need to be mindful of the cholesterol in eggs. But even people with this health risk can still safely eat one to three eggs a week. 

“Eggs can be part of a healthy diet. Eggs have been given a bad rap in the past and many people may still believe they should not be eating eggs,” Dr. Sandon says. “The bottom line is that eating a variety of whole foods, including eggs, nuts and seeds, vegetables and whole grains, is best for a healthy brain and body.”

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Other Breakfast Foods That Are Good for Your Brain

There’s no question that eggs are a nutrient-rich food, but you still need to pair other foods with them for a well-rounded breakfast. Eggs do not have any fiber, for example. For this reason, Dr. Sandon recommends scrambling eggs with spinach. She points out that spinach also has lutein and zeaxanthin, which, as explained earlier, help protect the brain from oxidative stress.

“Leafy greens provide folate and vitamin K, which protect neurons,” Dr. Zubkov adds. 

For most people, the protein in two eggs is not enough. If you have any leftover cooked salmon, Dr. Sandon recommends adding that to your egg-and-spinach scramble. This will also increase the amount of omega-3 fatty acids in your meal, which will benefit both the heart and brain.

Don’t have any salmon on hand? Dr. Sandon says that Greek yogurt and nuts are some other protein-rich foods you can add to your breakfast to round it out. Greek yogurt contains probiotics, which support both gut and brain health, while nuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, which help protect against inflammation.

Consider topping your Greek yogurt off with blueberries, which Dr. Zubkov says are particularly high in antioxidants. They’ll also up the fiber in your breakfast.

Pairing your eggs with avocado is another way to get more fiber, saturated fats and antioxidants. This will also make your breakfast more satiating, keeping you full longer.

“Eggs are one of the few foods that support brain health across multiple pathways simultaneously through antioxidants, choline, protein and healthy fats. That combination is rare and underappreciated,” he says.

Remember, just make sure you’re eating the yolks along with the whites. That way, you’re getting all the nutrients out of the eggs as possible, something that will benefit you both now and in the years to come.

Up Next:

Related: The 3 Best Types of Exercise for Brain Health, According to a Cleveland Clinic Neurologist

Sources

• Puri, S., Shaheen, M. and Grover, B. (2023). Nutrition and cognitive health: A life course approach. Frontiers in Public Health. doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1023907.
• Dr. Lona Sandon, PhD, RD, associate professor of clinical nutrition at the UT Southwestern Medical Center.
• Dr. Alexander Zubkov, MD, PhD, neurologist and nutrition scientific medical advisory board member for 1MD.
• The Relationship Between Eggs, Cholesterol and Heart Health. Cleveland Clinic.

Disneyland is making it very clear that standing up on one of its most popular rides could bring your day at the park to an early end.

New warning signs have appeared around Tiana’s Bayou Adventure in recent weeks, telling guests exactly what to expect from the ride—and what will happen if they don’t follow the rules.

“This attraction is a turbulent flume ride with high speeds, heights, sudden drops, stops,” one of the signs reads before instructing guests to “remain seated at all times.” Other variations of the sign are posted along the queue, all sharing the same warning: “Failure to stay seated will result in removal from the park.”

According to one Instagram user, the new signs clarify verbiage from the old ones that said parkgoers “may” be removed from the park.

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Fans had a lot to say about the new additions.

“For me it’s the fact that Disney has to even post 12 signs regarding this. What is wrong with people in today’s age?” one person asked.

“Those make the ride sound so much scarier than it actually is,” another noted.

A third said, “I’m glad they changed the language about WILL be removed from the park because we don’t need people in the parks who won’t follow rules for the safety of everyone. “

The tougher messaging comes after several concerning incidents on the ride, including a frightening accident involving a 13-year-old boy in June.

READ MORE: Disney World Guest Dies After Tragic Medical Emergency on It’s a Small World

The teen reportedly exited his ride vehicle while Tiana’s Bayou Adventure was still moving and before it reached its signature drop. Harrowing video of the incident circulating online shows the boy falling approximately 50 feet down the water-covered track. Despite the terrifying fall, he did not suffer serious injuries. He was transported to a nearby hospital for evaluation as a precaution.

The attraction closed for the remainder of the day following the incident. After an investigation found no operational problems with the ride, it reopened.

And it looks like Disneyland isn’t playing around when it comes to the warning. A more recent video shared on social media reportedly showed a family being removed from the attraction before the major drop after a rider allegedly stood up.

Fans have been concerned about “Small Town USA” hitmaker Justin Moore, and he’s been worried about himself, too.

The 42-year-old singer sat down with fellow star Tracy Lawrence for a new episode of the legend’s TL’s Road House podcast this week, where Moore revealed he recently had a cancer scare. Fans had noticed he seemed to have gained significant weight around his neck, with many expressing worry online that he might be having health issues, per Country Chord.

“I’m sure people think, ‘Golly, he’s been eatin’ good'” Moore says to Lawrence with a laugh (video of the interview below).

He feared the roll that developed on his neck might be cancer or a lipoma, so he had it tested. Fortunately, it is benign and is just, well, fat.

“It doesn’t affect me, I just look like a linebacker circa 1982,” Moore explains after sharing that it would be “very, very difficult to do surgery and it may affect my singing.”

The country singer wasn’t thrilled with the doctor’s findings, even though he’s relieved it’s not cancer. But his wife put things into perspective, telling him, “If you just have a fat neck and you’re here for the next 50 years, then shut up and stop complaining.”

That resonated, and he agrees. “I’ve never sold records because of my looks in the first place,” he jokes.

Why Did Justin Moore Go to Rehab?

Moore recently completed a 30-day stint in rehab for an alcohol addiction that struck with the pandemic in 2020 and got out of control in the years that followed. He’s more than two months sober now.

“I noticed that I was putting so much energy into drinking that it was taking away from not only my professionalism, but my family, most importantly, church, that kind of stuff,” he shared in his chat with Lawrence. He has four kids, including three teenage daughters and a 9-year-old son.

“I came home one Sunday and I walked straight upstairs and told my wife, ‘I gotta go get help. I just gotta do it,'” he recalls.

“It wasn’t fun,” he adds of his time in rehab, but he’s “actually proud of myself for the first time in awhile.”

Moore is back on tour after a break and is opening shows for Riley Green this week.

What Are Justin Moore’s Biggest Country Hits?

Moore tends to slide under the radar, but he’s actually one of the bigger hitmakers of the 2000s. All of the following songs hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs or Country Airplay charts:

• “Small Town USA” (2009)
• “If Heaven Wasn’t So Far Away” (2011)
• “‘Til My Last Day” (2012)
• “Lettin’ the Night Roll” (2013)
• “You Look Like I Need a Drink” (2015)
• “Somebody Else Will” (2016)
• “The Ones That Didn’t Make It Back Home” (2018)
• “Why We Drink” (2019)
• “We Didn’t Have Much” (2020)
• “With a Woman You Love” (2021)
• “Time’s Ticking” (2024)

MasterChef: Global Gauntlet was down to its Top 8 home cooks 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.

As this is the Global Gauntlet season, the teams are divided up into regions of the world: Africa, Asia-Pacific, Europe and The Americas.

Tonight, The Wall challenge returned in which the home cooks, separated by an eight-foot barrier, must partner up and rely solely on communication to create identical dishes that not only taste alike but are plated alike. It’s another double elimination, but Gordon explained the twist is that it may not necessarily be a team that goes home, but the two worst dishes of the night in the “The Wall” episode.

Check out our spoiler-filled recap below to find out who went home on MasterChef tonight.

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Who went home on MasterChef tonight? Foo Nguyen

Photo courtesy: FOX

Foo Nguyen

Representing: Vietnam
Current Residence: Irvine, CA

Tkaiya Dryden

Photo courtesy: FOX

Tkaiya Dryden

Representing: Jamaica
Current Residence: Jamaica Queens, NY

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

Dave Patera
Representing: Morocco
Current Residence: Chicago, IL

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

Who won the MasterChef: Global Gauntlet challenge tonight?

Surprisingly, Dave and Jake, who won last week’s challenge together and were given the task of assigning the partners for The Wall challenge, decided to split up since they weren’t really familiar with the type of cuisine that each of them is most comfortable making. Here are the teams they assigned:

Team Red: Dave and Heidi
Team Yellow: Jake and Julia
Team Blue: Tkaiya and Basia
Team Pink: Peter and Foo

The teams were tasked with making a protein, two sides and a sauce which must be identical dishes without the cooks being able to see their partner.

The winning team was the Red Team, so Dave and Heidi made it into the Top 6.

“I feel really amazing,” Dave said. “It feels really good to remain on top. I definitely feel that I could not have made the dish that I made with another cook in this challenge. Heidi was the right partner for the right challenge.”

Coming in second were Jake and Julia. Jake said, “I guess the strategy paid off. I paired with Julia and we are both Top 6 now. That’s huge. We’re getting further and further into the elite of MasterChef.”

Who was in the MasterChef: Global Gauntlet bottom this week?

Gordon announced that the two individuals leaving were not from the same team. It was Foo and Tkaiya who cooked for the last time in the MasterChef kitchen. Tkaiya burnt her salmon and it was overcooked; Foo undercooked his mushroom side dish and forgot to put his sauce on the plate.

“When I walked into this kitchen, I never thought I would be Top 8,” Foo said. “This journey has been a roller coaster and it has fulfilled me and will push me on forever. I am a dad and I always tell my girls, age is just a number. There’s nothing you can’t accomplish.”

“I came here after my undergrad,” Tkaiya said. “I put my master’s in marketing on hold because I was following a calling. Coming here has allowed me to find my voice into the culinary world. I am really sad, but I’m only 23 and I know I’m going to go further.”

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

Actress Gillian Anderson has played a plethora of diverse characters, from X-Files FBI agent Dana Scully to Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher in The Crown. However, there’s another iconic role that she would like to take on.

During an August 18 interview with Elle magazine, alongside her Teenage Sex and Death at Camp Miasma co-star Hannah Einbinder, Anderson was asked to share, “What’s a rumor you’ve read about yourself you wish were true?” Anderson replied that she was aware of a rumor that her name had been thrown around to play secret agent James Bond.

“That I’m the next James Bond. It was a few years ago, but I mean, I’m kind of joking,” said Anderson during the Elle interview.

Einbinder interjected that she “wish[ed] it were true. The Hacks star then asked Anderson what her “take on James Bond” would be if she were offered the role, which has been played by Pierce Brosnan, Daniel Craig, Roger Moore, and Sean Connery throughout several films, based on Ian Fleming’s book series.

“I’d be a woman. And I wouldn’t be called Jane. I wouldn’t be Jane Bond. I’d still have a gun. And maybe I’d still collect women,” said Anderson, in reference to 007’s womanizer ways.

Gillian Anderson Opened up About the Sudden Fame that Came With Starring on ‘The X-Files’

Anderson was catapulted into the spotlight after the first season of The X-Files premiered in 1993. During an August 2026 interview on Conan O’Brien‘s podcast, Conan O’Brien Needs A Friend, Anderson revealed she didn’t like the public notoriety that came with playing Scully.

“Hated it,” said the actress.

She said that the saving grace was that The X-Files was filmed in “Vancouver for the first five years,” which gave her and her castmates a level of privacy.

“When we were in L.A., you know, we had the experience that a lot of celebrities did at that time, which just followed everywhere and chased down the street and photographed with kids in playgrounds and all that kind of stuff, which I found disturbing and it really angered me. I pointed my car at many paparazzi over the years. And so being up there and not having that, it just didn’t exist up in Vancouver, was very freeing,” said Anderson.

Check your cabinets! Prince Bakery is recalling multiple products that may contain undeclared sesame or milk.

The bakery, located in the Bronx, New York, warns those with allergies or severe sensitivities to sesame and milk to avoid the following products: Sesame Italian Bread, Large Italian Bread, Large Sesame French Bread, Long Sesame French Bread, and Pan de Manteca Spanish Style Bread.

Milk and sesame allergies can result in serious or life-threatening allergic reactions. According to the Mayo Clinic, milk allergy symptoms differ between people but often cause hives, wheezing, itching, vomiting, coughing, and swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat.

Sesame is recognized as one of the nine most common food allergies by the Cleveland Clinic. Symptoms vary but are similar to milk allergy reactions.

The products were available for purchase at bodegas and small retail markets across the Bronx and Westchester, New York. The affected items were packaged in white bags with blue, green, and red lettering. The breads typically have a shelf life of three to five days; however, they may be frozen.

Both Prince Bakery and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced the recall on Wednesday, August 19, 2026. It was initiated during a routine inspection by the agency. They found that the Spanish Style bread had Whey Milk in its ingredients, but its packaging did not list milk in the “Contains” statement.

The Italian Bread and Large Italian & French Bread did not list sesame in the Ingredients or “Contains” statement. Investigations show that the issue was caused by a temporary breakdown in the company’s production and packaging processes.

Customers who have purchased any of the recalled products are urged to throw them away. No illnesses have been reported to date.

In 1966, a 17-year-old Kenny Loggins wrote “Danny’s Song” as a tribute to his older brother, Danny, after the birth of Danny’s first son, Colin. Loggins was initially inspired to write the song after reading a letter his brother wrote about his new son and his family’s plans to move to Berkeley to start a new life. In the letter, Danny shared how he planned to marry Colin’s mother and that, despite having no money, they were rich with hopes and dreams.

@kindred.old.soul

THE ICONIC ORIGINAL: “DANNY’S SONG” – KENNY LOGGINS & JIM MESSINA 👶🎶 What if the most comforting song of the 1970s wasn’t written for the radio, but adapted directly from a private family letter? 📝❤️ In 1971, the iconic American folk-rock duo Loggins and Messina released their debut album Sittin’ In, introducing the world to a tender acoustic masterpiece. But the story behind “Danny’s Song” began years earlier in a high school classroom, long before Kenny Loggins became a household name. 🏫🎸 The track was actually penned entirely by a 17-year-old Kenny Loggins as a deeply personal gift for his older brother, Danny. 👶🎁 Danny had just welcomed his first son, Colin, and sent Kenny a raw, emotional letter mapping out his hopes, dreams, and financial struggles as a young father moving his family to Berkeley. Kenny literally took his brother’s exact words, adopted his first-person perspective, and added a soothing acoustic arrangement alongside bandmate Jim Messina to create an ultimate anthem of love over materialism. 🎵🏡While the duo’s acoustic version became a beloved staple, the song achieved massive commercial heights through an incredible twist of fate. 🇨🇦🍁 In 1972, Canadian country-pop star Anne Murray covered it, catapulting the track to No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100, No. 10 on the Hot Country Songs chart, and two weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart. It even earned Murray a prestigious Grammy Award nomination for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance in 1974. 🏆🎤 Decades later, its emotional weight remains entirely unmatched in pop culture. 📺👶 The song served as the emotional anchor for the hit TV comedy series Raising Hope, used as a comforting lullaby in the pilot and later performed by Kenny Loggins himself in the emotional series finale. It stands as a timeless reminder that when everything else falls away, love makes us richer than money ever could. ☀️🕊️ #DannysSong #KindredOld Soul #LogginsAndMessina #ClassicRock #NostalgiaMusic dannys song kenny loggins, Kindred Old Soul, loggins and messina sittin in, 1970s soft rock, 70s folk rock, anne murray cover, raising hope soundtrack, kenny loggins brother, acoustic guitar classics, billboard hot 100 hits, 1970s music history, 70s vinyl classics, classic love songs, real stories behind songs, old school lullaby

♬ original sound – Unique Two – Unique Two

The song would later appear on Loggins and Messina’s 1971 debut album, Sittin’ In, but it was Anne Murray’s cover of “Danny’s Song” that turned it into an enduring hit.

Anne Murray Turned “Danny’s Song” Into a Hit @60.70.80muziekvoorjou

Anne Murray’s 1972 cover of “Danny’s Song” was a major chart hit, reaching number 7 on the US Billboard Hot 100, number 10 on the country chart, and number 1 on the Easy Listening/Adult Contemporary chart in early 1973. #1972 #top40 #70smusic

♬ origineel geluid – 60.70.80muziekvoorjou

When Anne Murray discovered “Danny’s Song” on Loggins and Messina’s album, she was already an acclaimed country-pop singer. In 1972, she recorded and released her own version as a single. Her version turned the song into a major crossover hit and is the version fans most associate with the song.

Murray’s version of “Danny’s Song” reached No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100, No. 10 on the country chart and spent two weeks at No. 1 on Billboard’s Adult Contemporary chart. The song also reached No. 1 in Murray’s native Canada.

“Danny’s Song” would go on to become one of Anne Murray’s signature songs and demonstrated her unique ability to move between country, pop and adult contemporary genres. What made it such an enduring hit was the deeply relatable theme of the song.

Related: 1973 Song Inspired by a Notorious Texas Brothel Became ZZ Top’s First Big Hit

“Danny’s Song” Took on New Meaning for Anne Murray

Murray had always loved the song, but it took on a deeper meaning for her when she became a mother herself. Suddenly, Loggins’ themes of finding the richness in life despite one’s circumstances became personal, creating an enduring connection with Murray despite not writing the song herself.

“Danny’s Song” started as a teenage songwriter’s gift to his brother but became a global hit with Anne Murray’s cover.

In 2007, Anne Murray re-recorded “Danny’s Song” as a duet with Martina McBride for her album Duets: Friends & Legends, but it is her early cover that remains most closely associated with the singer.

Kenny Loggins may have been a teenager inspired by his brother’s heartfelt letter, but Anne Murray made the song her own—and the world embraced it.

Related: 1986 Song Inspired by ‘Itsy Bitsy Spider’ Became Carly Simon’s 12th Top 40 Hit

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If your jewelry collection could use a little extra sparkle heading into fall, the Adornia 14-Karat Gold-Plated Baguette Crystal Chain Bracelet is worth a look. It’s currently on sale for just $15 at Nordstrom Rack, down from $65, which is an impressive 76% off. It comes in a gorgeous gold-plated design and is available in one size. 

The bracelet blends two different styles: one half is covered in baguette-shaped crystals, while the other half is made up of chunky gold links. It measures 7 inches long and comes with a 1.75-inch extender, so you can easily adjust how it sits on your wrist. It also features a lobster-clasp closure and is made with 14-karat gold plate and crystal.

Adornia 14-Karat Gold-Plated Baguette Crystal Chain Bracelet, $15 (was $65) at Nordstrom Rack

Courtesy of Nordstrom Rack

Shop at Nordstrom Rack

This would pair especially well with fall staples like a long-sleeve top, jeans and flats, or a sweater dress with boots. Since the bracelet already mixes crystals with chunkier chain links, it works well as a single statement piece, or you could add a slim watch or simple bangle if you prefer a layered look.

One shopper rated it five out of five stars and called it an “eye-catching bracelet.” They also said it’s “very pretty” and “looks like fine jewelry,” which says a lot considering it’s under $20 right now. Its dressier look also makes it easy to wear with everyday fall outfits or dinners, events, and holiday plans later in the season.

Related: Macy’s ‘Sparkly’ Diamond Bracelet ‘Looks More Expensive Than It Is,’ Now 65% Off

The price is also great if you’ve been wanting to refresh your accessories without spending much. The bracelet is currently $50 less than its $65 value, and it gets bonus points for having gold plating, crystal detail, and an adjustable length. It could also make an excellent fall birthday gift or something to set aside early for the holiday gifting.

Shop More Deals

• Adornia Crystal Halo Stud Earrings Set, $19 (was $145) at Nordstrom Rack
• Adornia Initial Pendant Layered Necklace, $16 (was $95) at Nordstrom Rack
• Adornia Crystal Toggle Tennis Necklace, $20 (was $95) at Nordstrom Rack

At 76% off, this Nordstrom Rack deal is definitely worth grabbing before the price changes. The Adornia 14-Karat Gold-Plated Baguette Crystal Chain Bracelet would be perfect now and into the fall with sweaters, denim, and other accessories, so be sure to add it to your cart while it’s still in stock and the markdown is this 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.

Pumpkin spice season is getting a new addition, and this one is designed with protein and fiber in mind.

Smoothie King has introduced its new Slim-N-Trim GLP-1 Pumpkin Smoothie, a limited-time seasonal drink that the company says is designed for people taking GLP-1 medications or anyone looking for a more balanced way to enjoy a pumpkin-flavored treat.

The new smoothie is made with 100% organic pumpkin puree and Smoothie King’s pumpkin spice blend. It contains more than 23 grams of protein, 9 grams of fiber and 0 grams of added sugar, according to the company.

The smoothie is part of Smoothie King’s GLP-1 Support Menu, which launched in 2024. The company says the menu was created in response to changing nutritional priorities among customers taking GLP-1 medications.

The new pumpkin offering joins several other seasonal drinks in Smoothie King’s 2026 pumpkin lineup, including the Power Meal Pumpkin, Coffee High Protein Pumpkin, Slim-N-Trim Pumpkin, D-Lite Pumpkin and Vegan Pumpkin.

The Coffee High Protein Pumpkin contains more than 31 grams of protein and 83 milligrams of caffeine, while the Vegan Pumpkin is plant-based and contains more than 12 grams of protein and is a good source of vitamin C.

The new Slim-N-Trim GLP-1 Pumpkin Smoothie and the rest of the fall lineup are available for a limited time at participating Smoothie King locations nationwide and through the Smoothie King app.

On Aug. 27, Healthy Rewards members can visit participating locations for a free Pumpkin D-Lite Smoothie sampling, while supplies last.

The pumpkin lineup is expected to be available only through the fall season, so pumpkin spice fans won’t want to wait too long to try the new offerings.

RELATED: Keke Palmer Has a New ‘Loyal’ Relationship—and It’s Not What You Think 

There’s nothing quite like a new haircut to boost your confidence. But sometimes, we get in our own way and ask for something that doesn’t actually flatter us. Stylists see a lot of this when clients sit down in their chairs, and one celebrity hairstylist is begging women over 50 to stop asking for one thing in particular.

Kenna Kennor, who has styled the likes of Victoria Beckham, Lily Collins and Gigi Hadid, tells Parade he sees women over 50 making the same mistake repeatedly when they head to the salon to get their hair done. Kennor reveals why the common mane mishap backfires on mature women and explains what it actually does to mature hair.

The celebrity stylist, who runs an award-winning salon in Brooklyn, New York named Kennaland, underscores the importance of having a thorough consultation with your stylist to make sure you learn exactly which style will flatter you the most. If you’re unsure what to ask your stylist, Kennor has a few solid suggestions for making the most of your next consultation.

To help you prepare for your next salon session, Kennor also provides several haircuts that generally work well for women over 50.

Related: How To Transition to Gray Hair Without the Awkward ‘Skunk Stripe’ Phase, According to Celebrity Hairstylists

The 1 Thing Women Over 50 Should Stop Asking Their Hairstylist For

When asked for the one thing he’d encourage women over 50 to avoid at the salon, Kennor quickly suggests ditching the mentality that you have to get “a drastic chop to short hair ‘because of your age.'”

“I have women sit in my chair all the time and open with, ‘I’m over 50 now, I suppose I should cut it all off.’ That instinct—that a certain birthday means it’s time to go short and low-maintenance—is the one request I’d retire tomorrow. Age isn’t a haircut. It never has been,” he tells Parade.

What the Request Actually Does to Mature Hair

Automatically assuming that you need to cut your hair at a certain age can hold you back for a number of reasons.

“It’s a decision made about your hair instead of for it,” Kennor says.

Mature hair has specific needs, so cutting it shorter isn’t always the best solution.

“Hair after 50 often loses density and diameter, so it can read as finer. An aggressive short cut with heavy internal layering scatters what weight you have left, which can make thin hair look even thinner, rather than fuller,” Kennor explains.

The right hair length frames and softens your face shape. The wrong short cut, on the other hand, can harden the features you’re trying to soften.

Texture should also be taken into consideration when you’re deciding which haircut to get.

“Since natural oils distribute less efficiently over time, some cuts need more styling and moisture to look intentional, not less. A short cut isn’t automatically ‘wash and go.’ Sometimes, it’s the highest maintenance thing in the room,” Kennor tells Parade.

Above all, the stylist says cutting your hair short after 50 out of a sense of obligation can have unintended emotional effects on you.

“The highest cost is joy. I’ve talked women out of the chop and watched them rediscover their hair. Length, movement, a bit of dimension—those aren’t things you age out of. You lose all of that the moment you treat a haircut as a resignation,” he says.

Related: 5 Hair Color Tricks to Instantly Look Younger, According to Celebrity Colorists

The 3 Haircuts a Celebrity Stylist Recommends for Women Over 50 Right Now

Following your heart and getting a haircut you love, regardless of what others think, never goes out of style. But if you’re looking to keep up with current haircut trends, Kennor has a few recommendations for styles that are en vogue right now.

1. The graduated (“granny”) bob

Moritz Scholz/Getty Images

The graduated (“granny”) bob is often where Kennor starts the conversation during consultations with clients over 50.

“The graduation builds real volume through the back, so it’s worth raising with your stylist if density is your concern,” he says.

During a consultation, Kennor suggests asking your stylist how much graduation actually suits your face so you can determine whether the haircut lands at the jaw or lower.

2. The collarbone lob with dimensional color

Lionel Hahn/Getty Images

“If you tell me you want to keep length, this is usually where we go. It holds enough weight for a strong shape, and I’d walk you through adding subtle dimensional color to build movement and the illusion of fullness,” Kennor says.

The stylist says Jennifer Aniston’s grown-out lob is a great example of this haircut, but notes that the right version for each client depends on their texture and how much they’re willing to style the look themselves at home.

3. A soft, modern shag or wolf cut

Rosdiana Ciaravolo/Getty Images

“Done right for your texture, the layers give natural, lived-in movement and volume with very little effort. Put some product in, dry naturally and you’re done,” Kennor says.

The stylist says this haircut is proof that “low-maintenance” doesn’t have to mean “short.”

“It reads as confident and current, rather than fussy,” he says.

Related: Here’s Exactly How To Use Apple Cider Vinegar for Smoother, Shinier Hair, According to a Trichologist

How To Have a Better Salon Consultation After 50

If you’ve never had a proper consultation with your hairstylist, you’re missing out. These mane mavens are a wealth of knowledge and can help advise you on which styles will flatter your unique features.

“Come with openness, not a single fixed photo. Reference images are useful, but bring a few that show a vibe, and be ready to hear how they’ll actually translate to your texture, density and face shape because a shag on one person is a completely different haircut on another,” Kennor says.

The stylist recommends talking honestly about your routine and lifestyle while chatting with your stylist.

“Telling a stylist what you’re genuinely willing to do at home is the single most useful thing you can tell me because it changes everything about what I’d recommend,” he explains.

Most of all, having an open mind is critical.

“One of the most common mistakes I see is deciding on the haircut before the conversation starts, so the consultation becomes a negotiation instead of a collaboration,” he says.

Up Next:

Related: Does Rice Water Actually Help Hair Growth? I Tried It for 30 Days

Source:

• Kenna Kennor is a celebrity hairstylist who runs Kennaland, an award-winning salon in Brooklyn, New York.

Sons of Southern rock royalty, Devon Allman and Duane Betts are bringing back the Allman Betts Family Revival for another year. Marking the tour’s 10th year, A Decade of Revival includes 20 stops across the U.S. beginning Nov. 28 in St. Louis and concluding on Dec. 20 in San Francisco.

The tour, whose name is a nod to the Allman Brothers Band compilation A Decade of Hits 1969-1979, also features an impressive lineup of guest artists: Robert Randolph, Sierra Hull, Judith Hill, Andy Frasco, Luther Dickinson, Jimmy Hall, Steel Beans, Larry McCray, Cody Dickinson, Alex Orbison, and Abby Stachschmidt are on the docket to perform.

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According to Blues Rock Review, each show will feature a two-set showcase centered on the Allman Brothers Band’s career, with the first set focused on their music from the 1970s and the second paying homage to their resurgence in the ’90s.

“I can’t believe it’s been 10 years of our beautiful gathering of friends to celebrate our dads’ songbook,” Devon Allman said. “Being the faithful custodians of this historic body of work is not lost on Duane and me. It is our high honor. We couldn’t possibly hold it any closer to our hearts. We can’t wait to evoke the spirits and celebrate 10 years. Be with us.”

Added Duane Betts, “10 years strong! It’s a gift playing this timeless songbook with so many of our beautiful, talented friends. We couldn’t be more thrilled to have the Revival continue into year 10. See y’all on the road!”

Launched in 2017, the Revival began as a celebration of what would have been Gregg Allman’s 70th birthday, and over the years, has grown into an annual, guest-packed tour that continues to honor the legacies of Gregg Allman, Dickey Betts, and their band.

Southern rock pioneers, the Allman Brothers Band was formed in 1969 in Jacksonville, Florida. Their improvisational blend of rock, blues, jazz, and Southern musical traditions helped define the sound of 1970s Southern rock, with their landmark 1971 album, At Fillmore East, helping cement their reputation and major hits like “Ramblin’ Man” bringing them a broader mainstream audience.  

Their success came full circle decades later when they were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1995 and won a Grammy Award for Best Rock Instrumental Performance for “Jessica” in 1996.

Tickets are on sale now with limited VIP Meet & Greet packages also available. Additional guests are appearing in select markets.

Related: ’90s Hard Rock Legends, Touring With Foo Fighters, Announce First Album in 3 Years

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Tyler Cameron and Jenna Dewan are competing on season 35 of Dancing With The Stars!

According to insiders who spoke to Us Weekly, the Bachelor fan favorite and The Rookie actress will be hitting the ballroom floor this season.

Cameron’s casting comes five years after his best friend and former Bachelor Matt James competed with pro dancer Lindsay Arnold on season 30 in 2021. Two years prior, Cameron’s ex—Bachelorette Hannah Brown—won season 28 with Alan Bersten.

Dewan isn’t as connected to the franchise, but has plenty of dance experience. She initially started her career as a backup dancer for Janet Jackson, and later danced alongside artists including Christina Aguilera, P!nk, and Missy Elliott.

RELATED: DWTS’ Ezra Sosa Reveals Which Pros He Thinks Deserve a Frontrunner This Season

While appearing on Good Morning America in March, Dewan was asked if she’d ever participate in the dance competition show.

“The thing with me is like I never say never because I love dancing so much and I miss it so much,” the Step Up actress said. “I just already know myself that it would be one of those really hard things to say no to.”

“I mean I’ve never ballroom danced so it would be hard, ” she continued. “I have so much respect for everyone on that show. It’s really difficult, it’s difficult to dance like that, that hard, that long, week after week, it’s really amazing what they do.”

So far, the only season 35 celebrity-pro pairing revealed is Jimmy Kimmel Live! sidekick Guillermo Rodriguez and reigning DWTS champion Witney Carson.

Three other contestants—Summer House‘s Ciara Miller, Love Island‘s Maura Higgins, and the Savannah Bananas’ Jackson Olson—have been confirmed for the show, but their partnerships won’t be revealed until later.

As for the rest of the cast, Giada De Laurentiis, Taylor Hanson, Harry Shum Jr., and Ezra Frech are among the names rumored to be competing, but nothing has been officially confirmed by ABC.

Dancing with the Stars airs returns on Tuesday, Sept. 15. on ABC and Disney+ and streams next day on Hulu. The full cast will be revealed on Wednesday, Sept. 2 on Good Morning America.

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We’re already at the penultimate episode of Paris Is Always a Good Idea. The limited series starring Lacey Chabert and Scott Michael Foster is nearing the end of its run, with Chelsea and Knightly back in Paris—and both dealing with unresolved feelings. But before Chelsea can figure out what her future holds with Knightly, she still needs closure from a past romance.

Read on for more about this week’s episode of Paris Is Always a Good Idea, including an exclusive sneak peek.

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What is Paris is Always a Good Idea about?

Career-driven nonprofit executive Chelsea Martin (Lacey Chabert) travels to Paris with her confident rival-turned-ally, Jason Knightly (Scott Michael Foster) to secure a major donation. But a heartfelt message from her late mother — and a loving push from her sister Annabelle (Rebecca Hanssen) — sends her on an unexpected journey to reconnect with the three great loves she once left behind. From the rolling hills of Ireland to the magic of Paris and the sun-kissed vineyards of Spain, Chelsea retraces old footsteps and discovers that sometimes, moving forward means first looking back.

What happened in last week’s episode of Paris is Always a Good Idea? Scott Michael Foster, Lacey Chabert Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Eric Caro

Hallmark Media

In “Knightly, Visited,” last week’s episode of Paris is Always a Good Idea, Chelsea and Knightly spent more time together preparing for their important donor meeting in Paris. Their connection deepen in ways neither expected. Along her journey to revisit past loves, Chelsea begins to see a new side of Knightly—one that challenges her assumptions and draws her closer. As their relationship begins to move to the next level, Chelsea is surprised when Knightly encourages her to fully explore her past, even suggesting she reconnect with Marcos in Spain to be certain of what—and who—she truly wants.

What is this week’s episode of Paris is Always a Good Idea about? Alejandro Albarracín, Lacey Chabert Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Unai Mateo

Hallmark Media

In “Marcos, Revisited,” this week’s brand new episode of Paris is Always a Good Idea, Chelsea is encouraged by Knightly to seek out answers to the last few lingering questions about her past loves, Chelsea heads to Spain, and to Marcos’s (Alejandro Albarracín) vineyard.

Related: Hallmark Is Giving Lacey Chabert a Major First—and Fans Will Love It

How to watch Paris is Always a Good Idea

Paris is Always a Good Idea streams exclusively on Hallmark+. The “Marcos, Revisited” episode of Paris is Always a Good Idea premieres on Thursday, Aug. 20. New episodes drop weekly on Thursdays on the streamer.

Related: Nathan Has a Secret Plan—Is a Proposal Finally Coming on ‘When Calls the Heart’? (Exclusive)

Watch an exclusive sneak peek of this week’s episode of Paris is Always a Good Idea

Check out this Parade exclusive sneak peek of the “Marcos, Revisited” episode of Paris is Always a Good Idea below:

PARADE Exclusisve – Paris is Always a Good Idea – “Marcos, Revisited” – Sneak Peek (1:17) Check out images from this week’s episode of Paris is Always a Good Idea

Take a look at some select images from this week’s episode of Paris is Always a Good Idea in the gallery below.

Paris is Always a Good Idea - Marcos, RevisitedHallmark Media

Alejandro Albarracín Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Unai Mateo

Hallmark Media

Julien Marlon Samani Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media

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Scott Michael Foster Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media

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Alejandro Albarracín, Lacey Chabert Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Unai Mateo

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Scott Michael Foster Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media

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Julien Marlon Samani Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media

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Lacey Chabert, Rebecca Hanssen Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Unai Mateo

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Rebecca Hanssen, Henry Czerny, Lacey Chabert Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Unai Mateo

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Henry Czerny, Lacey Chabert Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Unai Mateo

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Lacey Chabert Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Unai Mateo

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Alejandro Albarracín, Lacey Chabert Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Unai Mateo

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Alejandro Albarracín, Lacey Chabert Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Unai Mateo

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Alejandro Albarracín, Lacey Chabert Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Unai Mateo

Hallmark Media

Alejandro Albarracín, Lacey Chabert Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Unai Mateo

Hallmark Media

Alejandro Albarracín, Lacey Chabert Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Unai Mateo

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Alejandro Albarracín, Lacey Chabert Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Unai Mateo

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Lacey Chabert, Alejandro Albarracín Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Unai Mateo

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Alejandro Albarracín Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Unai Mateo

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Alejandro Albarracín, Lacey Chabert Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Unai Mateo

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Alejandro Albarracín, Lacey Chabert Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Unai Mateo

Hallmark Media

Alejandro Albarracín, Lacey Chabert Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Unai Mateo

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Alejandro Albarracín Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Unai Mateo

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Alejandro Albarracín, Lacey Chabert Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Unai Mateo

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Lacey Chabert, Ana Rosa, Rachel Taylor Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Unai Mateo

Hallmark Media

The first 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 quarterfinals: Ashford Sanders, Brook Lynn, Cris Sosa, Hundred Fingers, James & Marina, Jesse White Tumbling Team, Luke Taleno, Royal Lasers, Sando, The CommUNITY ATL Choir, and Olivia Befus.

Three of them will make it through on America’s vote; seven of them will come to the end of their AGT journey as this season, and one lucky artist — Hundred Fingers — last night received the judge’s Golden Buzzer from Howie Mandel that put them 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? Ashford Sanders
Brook Lynn
Cris Sosa
James & Marina
Jesse White Tumbling Team
Sando
The CommUNITY ATL Choir

Related: America’s Got Talent’s 18-Year-Old Dog Trainer Teases Surprise Upgrade for Live Shows (Exclusive)

Who went through on AGT tonight to the semifinals? Luke Taleno
Olivia Befus
Royal Lasers Who went through to the finale courtesy of the Golden Buzzer on AGT? Hundred Fingers

Related: Who Magically Won Howie Mandel’s America’s Got Talent 2026 Live Golden Buzzer Last Night?

America’s Got Talent Night 1 Results Show Recap

South Korean boy band NCT 127 opened the live results show with a medley of their hit songs “Kick It” and “Piñata.” 

Then host Terry Crews did a recap of Hundred Fingers’ performance last night, which earned Howie Mandel’s Golden Buzzer, a direct ticket to the finale.

“It felt like a dream. There are 10 of us but it felt like one dream,” group leader Yu Hojin said. “We are going to create something even more impossible for the finale.”

Next, Sofia Vergara made a plea for help for aid organizations sending money and supplies to Columbia — World Central Kitchen and Unicef — following the 7.4 earthquake in her native country.

After a review of last nights performances, Terry introduced AGT‘s in-house social media influencer Trisha Paytas, and there was a segment on the importance social media plays for the artists on the show.

Simon also told Terry that he agreed with Howie’s choice for the Golden Buzzer, agreeing that Hundred Fingers was the best act of the night.

Then, Terry got down to the business of the night: revealing the results of the voting.

He called to the stage Olivia Befus and James & Marina. The first act in this week’s Top 5 was Olivia. Simon had buzzed James & Marina last night as he felt their act was too slow, and apparently America agreed.

The next pairing to receive their results for the Top 5 was The CommUNITY ATL Choir vs rapper Luke Taleno. America voted for Luke Taleno to move on.

Ashford Sanders and Royal Lasers were the third pairing to take the stage with Terry. The third act moving into this week’s Top 5 was Royal Lasers.

Following a commercial break, the reveal continued with Cris Sosa going against Brook Lynn. The act taking the next spot was Cris Sosa.

The final pairing for the Top 5 reveal was Jesse White Tumbling Team vs Sando. Still in the competition and taking the final spot in the Top 5 was the Jesse White Tumbling Team.

That done, only three will move on to the semifinals. So, the countdown continued eliminating two more acts.

The first act moving on as revealed by Terry was Olivia Befus and her adorable dogs.

Related: America’s Got Talent’s 18-Year-Old Dog Trainer Teases Surprise Upgrade for Live Shows (Exclusive)

The second act moving through was Terry’s Golden Buzzer, Royal Lasers.

And the final act making the semifinals was Luke Taleno.

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?

Matthew McConaughey‘s love for Willie Nelson runs deeper than viral Instagram duets and shared tour buses. In a new Rolling Stone video series, “My Life in 10 Songs,” McConaughey named one of Nelson’s deep cuts as a track that changed his life.

The song, “I’d Have to Be Crazy,” was written by Texas songwriter Steven Fromholz and recorded by Nelson for his 1976 album ‘The Sound in Your Mind.’ Released as a single that July, it climbed to No. 11 on Billboard’s country chart.

McConaughey called it anything but a typical love song. “The love of somebody that you have is something you can rely on,” he said, describing the track’s message about staying anchored to someone even when life feels chaotic. He pointed to the song’s closing line as proof of that devotion: even at his most “crazy,” the narrator can’t fall out of love.

Nelson’s tune landed alongside some far bigger commercial hits on McConaughey’s list. Tears for Fears’ “Shout” and Paul Simon’s chart-topping “50 Ways to Leave Your Lover” both made the cut, alongside John Mellencamp’s “Pink Houses” and Janet Jackson’s “That’s the Way Love Goes.”

The rest of the list leaned into deeper cuts with even bigger stories attached. Ali Farka Touré’s “Ai Du” sent McConaughey on an unplanned trip up Mali’s Niger River hunting for the bluesman who wrote it, a journey he now calls one of the most important of his life. U2’s “Silver and Gold” carried him through a lonely exchange-student year in Australia, while AC/DC’s “Beating Around the Bush” traces back to late-night driveway jam sessions with his older brother. Reggae artist Mishka’s “Lonely” and The Cult’s “Lil’ Devil” rounded out the picks, with the Mishka connection eventually leading McConaughey to launch a record label with the singer years after first hearing him on vacation.

The music industry in the late 1930s was finally starting to recover after the Great Depression, and while it might not have been nearly as saturated as the music industry now, plenty of huge hits came out of the period.

This includes the song “If I Didn’t Care” performed by the Ink Spots, which came out in 1939 and took the world by storm. The track was released as a single with the B-side “Knock Kneed Sal (On The Mourner’s Bench),” and it launched the vocal pop group to stardom.

The ballad became a huge success and was the Ink Spots’ first million-selling record. Over time, it went on to sell 19 million copies, and even after over 80 years, it’s still one of the best-selling physical singles of all time.

“If I Didn’t Care” stands among other music icons like Elvis Presley, Whitney Houston, Bing Crosby, Celine Dion, and more who also made some of the best-selling singles in music history. Crosby’s “White Christmas” still holds the title as the best-selling physical single of all time, with over 50 million copies sold.

Thanks to the success of the Ink Spots’ hit “If I Didn’t Care,” the band had many more hits in the following years. This includes the songs “My Prayer,” “Memories of You,” “I’m Gettin’ Sentimental Over You,” and more.

Related: 1979 Rock Song, Written by Neil Young, Among “Greatest Rock Song Lyrics of All Time”

Over the years, the legacy of “If I Didn’t Care” has only grown. Other artists like Connie Francis, the Hilltoppers, and David Cassidy have recorded their own versions in the decades since, with most doing well on music charts. The original version by the Ink Spots just missed becoming a No. 1 hit, peaking at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100.

“If I Didn’t Care” has also been featured in many movies and television shows, including The Shawshank Redemption, Men Don’t Leave, Miss Pettigrew Lives for a Day, and South Park.

Related: 1980 Folk-Rock Song, Written By Jackson Browne, Among ‘Greatest Rock Song Lyrics of All Time’

If you’re familiar with Kenny Rogers, you know he created some of the most memorable hit songs of the past several decades. Classics such as “The Gambler,” “Coward of the County” and “Islands in the Stream” continue to resonate with listeners today. These songs have endured for generations, and they still sound as good as when they were first released.

You may remember too that beyond his legendary music career, Kenny Rogers also had a certain forgotten recipe that he reportedly enjoyed. For people who remember his restaurants and the comfort-food meals associated with his name, it’s no surprise we think his easy, cheesy Noche Specials recipe would still resonate on dinner tables today. With so much nostalgia surrounding Kenny Rogers, I wanted to find out whether this recipe is truly worth bringing back and can stand the test of time.

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So, I decided to take on the challenge of making the Noche Specials myself. As with many recipes I try, I’m approaching this one with excitement, curiosity and an open mind. Will it live up to the memories people have attached to it, or will it be better left in the past? There is only one way to find out: make it, taste it and see whether it deserves a place in today’s kitchen.

Here’s what I thought when I made Kenny Rogers’ Noche Specials for myself.

Ingredients for Kenny Rogers’ Noche Specials

Courtesy Choya Johnson

To make this recipe, you’ll need hot fat or a substitute oil for frying, tortillas, grated cheese and jalapeños. You can use your favorite frying oil, such as vegetable, canola or peanut oil, depending on your preference. For the cheese, cheddar, Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend works well. Fresh or pickled jalapeños can be added based on how much heat you like. You may also want to have salt, sour cream, salsa, guacamole or chopped cilantro on hand for serving and extra flavor.

How to Make Kenny Rogers’ Noche Specials

Courtesy Choya Johnson

Cut the tortillas into quarters, then carefully fry them in hot fat for about 5 minutes, turning as needed, until both sides are golden brown and crispy. Remove the fried tortilla pieces, and drain them well on paper towels. Arrange them on a baking sheet, then top each piece with about 1 teaspoon of grated cheese and a slice of jalapeño pepper. Place the baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, and bake for 5 to 8 minutes, or until the cheese begins to melt and the toppings are warmed through.

Related: I Tried Princess Diana’s Favorite Stuffed Bell Peppers—and They Weren’t What I Expected

What I Thought of Kenny Rogers’ Noche Specials

Courtesy Choya Johnson

My honest opinion is that this recipe is incredibly easy and simple to prepare. With only a few basic ingredients, it makes a great afternoon snack or an easy finger food for parties, game days or special occasions. The fried tortilla chips turned out wonderfully crisp, creating the perfect base for the melted cheese and sliced jalapeños. The cheese added a rich, savory flavor, while the jalapeños brought just the right amount of heat. They gave the nachos a noticeable kick without being too spicy or overpowering. Overall, this is a quick, tasty recipe that is worth making again.

2 Tips for Making Kenny Rogers’ Noche Specials

Courtesy Choya Johnson

Though I loved the Noche Specials recipe as is, there are some suggestions I’d recommend that could make it even better.

1. Add a protein for more balance.

I would recommend adding your favorite protein to this meal to make these homemade nachos a bit more filling. Grilled steak would be delicious, adding a savory, smoky flavor that pairs well with the crispy tortilla chips, melted cheese, and spicy jalapeños. Shredded chicken, seasoned ground beef or black beans would also be tasty options.

2. Use an oil with a high smoke point.

I used canola oil as a substitute for the hot fat, and it worked perfectly for frying the tortilla quarters. The homemade chips turned out golden brown, crispy, and ready for the cheese and jalapeño toppings.

Final Thoughts

Overall, I found this recipe to be an affordable, satisfying snack that is ideal when you want something quick and easy and you don’t want to spend money on takeout. It delivers the comforting flavors of nachos without feeling too weighed down by heavy toppings or extra ingredients. The preparation was especially convenient, requiring very little time and effort, which makes it a practical option for busy days, movie nights or a simple afternoon craving.

Despite its simplicity, it still felt flavorful and enjoyable. I would definitely make this recipe again and recommend it to anyone looking for a lighter, fuss-free nacho-inspired snack.

Related: I Tried the Viral ‘Ocean Water’ Lemonade, and It’s Like Sipping Happiness

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If you haven’t yet infused the Y2K era back into your closet, then you’re missing out. Luckily, the autumn transition is the perfect time to invest in pieces that will make your wardrobe a bit more trendy. Walmart is home to some of our favorite clothing styles, with some of our favorites being these comfortable slip-on clogs, and, most recently, the Sunbs Cropped Cardigan, which is 53% off right now. 

The cardigan initially cost $36, but has been marked down to just $17 in the gray colorway. It’s additionally available in black, khaki, and brown, with the maximum sale price being $22. The sizes range from small to 2XL, and shoppers said that the sleeve length “feels just right.” If you plan to layer extensively with the cardigan or want it to look oversized, one shopper recommended sizing up. 

Sunbs Cropped Cardigan, From $17 (was $36) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

The cardigan is made from 71% polyester, 18% acrylic, and 11% polyamide, so it’s moisture-wicking and machine washable. Make sure to wash the sweater in cold water and lay it flat to dry after washing to ensure that it holds its shape. The cropped button-down style is reminiscent of styles popular in the 1990s, featuring a classic crewneck, drop-shoulder sleeves, and a cut that falls right above the waist. The cardigan offers an overall relaxed fit that still flatters your silhouette, so you can wear it to work or out on the town. 

Sunbs Cropped Cardigan, From $17 (was $36) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

To really achieve that early 2000’s look, you can even pair the cardigan with a white top, low-rise jeans, and a cute shoulder bag. Then, finish off the classic outfit with chunky white sneakers or sleek sandals. Shoppers described the cardigan as “stylish” and ideal for everyday wear because it can also double as an extra layer underneath a puffer jacket during chilly weather.

Other reviewers noted the cardigan as “very well-made,” “soft,” and “luxurious,” adding that the medium-weight fabric is thick enough to keep you warm throughout autumn. Some customers even purchased the sweater in a few “adorable” colors to amplify their upcoming seasonal wardrobe. 

Shop More Deals 

• Arkantos Farmhouse Nightstand Set, $110 (was $210) at Walmart
• Fantaslook 2-Piece Lounge Set, $23 (was $44) at Walmart
• Fantaslook Short-Sleeve Dress, $15 (was $30) at Walmart

This cute cropped cardigan is marked as a bestseller, so it’s bound to sell out quickly. Make sure to snag one — or several — colors while it’s being sold at a reduced price. Add the cardigan to your Walmart cart for as low as $17 now! 

Related: Walmart’s ‘Adorable’ $18 Pumpkin Glasses Are the Ultimate Summerween Kitchen Find

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Hayden Panettiere had beautiful plans for her birthday, planning to spend it with her beloved 11-year-old daughter Kaya in Germany, Page Six reports.

“She was planning on spending the week of her birthday visiting her daughter in Germany,” a source close to the actress told the outlet. “She was so excited to see her and was telling everyone how much she was looking forward to spending time with her.”

Her birthday is Aug. 21, and she would have been 37 years old.

Panettiere’s hairstylist and close friend, Erick Orellana, also spoke with Page Six earlier in the week, explaining that Panettiere had been talking very excitedly about wanting to plan a trip to see her daughter.

“I last saw her a few months ago,” Orellana said. “She was talking about how she wanted to take a vacation, and that she wanted to go and see her daughter. Her daughter was always her absolute priority. She loved her so much.”

Orellana further explained that the actress often showed her photos of Kaya and told stories about her.

“Her daughter was the absolute light of her life,” he added. “She lit up when she spoke about her. Everything she did revolved around her.”

Panettiere shares her daughter with her ex-fiancé, Wladimir Klitschko, and Kaya has lived in Ukraine with her father since 2018. The actress gave up custody of Kaya due to her battle with postpartum depression and addiction. Following news of her passing, Klitschko posted on Instagram, paying tribute to his former flame.

“The announcement of Hayden’s tragic death saddens me deeply. She left this world far too soon,” he wrote. “Hayden was, although no longer my partner, an important part of my life and the mother of our daughter, Kaya.”

“Nothing will erase the times we shared or the place she had in our lives. To our daughter Kaya, I will always speak of her mother with respect and make sure she remembers the person she was,” Klitschko continued. “I extend my deepest condolences to Hayden’s parents, her friends, and her fans, who are also grieving today. Young and talented people like Hayden should not leave this world so soon.”

“Rest easy, Hayden. May you find eternal peace.”

The now-iconic sitcom Diff’rent Strokes debuted in 1978, and actor Todd Bridges just opened up about the rocky road he faced on the show. Even though it’s now considered a classic, the public wasn’t entirely on board with interracial friendships at the time.

Bridges recently appeared on the podcast ‘Taboo’s Comics & Kicks,’ revealing that he received hate mail. In the late 1970’s and early ‘80s, the idea of two black children being adopted by a white father was a groundbreaking concept. While it might not seem like a big deal now, back then it was an almost cutting-edge concept. And that meant anyone associated with the show was subject to a critical backlash.

Dana Plato as Kimberly Drummond, Todd Bridges as Willis Jackson, Gary Coleman as Arnold Jackson — Photo by: Frank Carroll/NBC/NBCU Photo Bank, Getty Images

“We got hate mail from both sides,” said Bridges. “We got hate mail from whites. We got hate mail from blacks. They were like, ‘I can’t believe you’re hugging a white man.’ You know. And then white people are like, ‘You shouldn’t be hugging a black kid.’”

Even though it sparked scrutiny early on, the attacks didn’t last. Bridges explained, “And then all of the sudden, after like, I’d say a couple of months, everyone fell in love with the show. They realized that it’s about love. It’s not about anything else, you know? It’s about caring for people and about acceptance.”

This isn’t the first time Bridges has discussed race publicly. Last year, while appearing on the ‘Allison Interviews’ podcast, he said, “When I first moved to the San Fernando Valley, you know, the police, I used to be riding my bike with my white friends, and they’d pull me over and take my bike and handcuff me, and told me I stole my bike. And if any kid there could afford his bike, it was me.”

Todd Bridges. (Photo by Erika Goldring/Getty Images)

Bridges continued, “I think going through all that, I had a chip on my shoulder. I became angry with myself with everything around me, because I couldn’t understand how you could become so successful in this country and still be treated like you’re dirt, you know.” 

Bridges came from a prominent Hollywood family. His father, James Bridges Sr., was a successful talent agent, and his mother, Betty A. Bridges, was a manager and an actress who appeared in What’s Happening!!, Mary Hartman, Wonder Woman, and more. 

Bridges also gave fans a rare glimpse into his background acting in Hollywood, telling podcast host Allison Kugel, “Where I was fortunate about in the business was sometimes I’d go audition for a role that was strictly made for a white guy, but they would give it to me anyway because they knew I could handle it and I was good at it.”

The Diff’rent Strokes actor added, “But you still experience racism in the workplace also, because it’s, you know, me and Gary Coleman were the only black people on a show that time and we had no black crew members. You know. And then I started speaking up, and they finally got black crew members; we got a black director, you know, finally, so all this happened, where it was making us feel a lot better because we had people around us.”