Parade

Derran “Derry” Brownson, a founding member and original keyboardist of the British rock band EMF, has died. He was 55.

EMF told the BBC that Brownson died Thursday, Aug. 13, following a brain tumor diagnosis. The musician had publicly revealed his diagnosis in 2025 and continued performing with the band as his health allowed.

Brownson helped form EMF in Cinderford, Gloucestershire, in 1989, before the group exploded internationally with its debut single, “Unbelievable.”

Brownson’s longtime bandmate Ian Dench remembered the musician for the enormous enthusiasm he brought to his life and the people around him.

“I can’t think of anyone who embodied lust for life like Derry did,” Dench told the BBC. “I mean, he was beautiful inside out.”

Dench also recalled Brownson’s more sensitive side, including his love of animals and efforts to care for hedgehogs near his home in Devon.

“Underneath all that excitement and laughter he was a sensitive soul and, as I said, a beautiful person inside and out,” Dench said.

Brownson had been diagnosed with a cancerous brain tumor and underwent surgery to remove part of it. Speaking to the BBC in July 2025, he praised the care he received from the NHS as “absolutely above and beyond.”

At the time, getting back onstage remained an important goal.

“[It’s] just a battle really,” Brownson said. “I want to get back into playing.”

Brownson was able to do exactly that, including an especially meaningful performance with EMF in their hometown of Cinderford in July 2025.

“This is very, very special to me,” Brownson said of playing the hometown show.

Dench later described the band’s return to Cinderford as a “wonderful, wonderful moment” and said Brownson was able to play several more shows afterward.

His final performance came in May 2026 in Frome. According to Dench, Brownson was still making jokes when the two exchanged text messages just weeks before his death.

Brownson had been part of EMF from the beginning. The band formed in 1989 and quickly broke through with “Unbelievable,” released the following year.

The song reached No. 3 in the U.K. before becoming an even bigger phenomenon in the United States, where it climbed all the way to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1991.

“Unbelievable” appeared on EMF’s debut album Schubert Dip, which reached No. 3 in the U.K. and No. 12 in the United States.

After several breakups and reunions over the ensuing decades, EMF returned with Go Go Sapiens in 2022, their first album of new material in 27 years. The band followed it with The Beauty and the Chaos in 2024.

Brownson’s death comes more than three decades after EMF first turned “Unbelievable” into an international No. 1 hit.

Related: 1994 Rock Ballad, About Love Gone Wrong, Is Suddenly Going Viral 29 Years After Jeff Buckley’s Tragic Death at Age 30

For some time, there were speculations on why Matthew McConaughey turned down the role of Jack Dawson on Titanic, with the actor revealing he was never offered the role in the first place.

Titanic would end up becoming one of Leonardo DiCaprio‘s biggest claims to fame that almost went to McConaughey. The actor appeared on the Happy Sad Confused podcast with Josh Horowitz to clarify some rumors behind the audition process. In a Vanity Fair post from 2025, producer Jon Landau, who often worked with James Cameron, revealed in his memoir that everyone “was taken with Matthew, his presence and charm.”

McConaughey was actually a frontrunner to get the role of Jack, and when he auditioned, he added a Southern drawl to his lines. It was reported that Cameron asked him to redo the scene in a “different way,” and McConaughey said these words that lost him the role: “No. That was pretty good. Thanks.”

During the podcast, the Interstellar actor revealed, “I’ve been told many times, ‘Hey, I can’t believe you turned down Titanic.’ I’m like, ‘I didn’t turn down Titanic.’ And they’re like, ‘Well, [director James] Cameron said [that],’ and I said, ‘I never got offered that part.’ And if I did, I need to find that agent. That agent owes me money.”

He added that, “I never got offered that. So, whatever that mixed story is, I had heard that. The truth is, I never got offered that.”

Him auditiong for the role in Titanic was very much true, and McConaughey thought it went “great” and did it with Kate Winslet as his scene partner. He remembers leaving and thinking he “got that role” and ultimately didn’t.

The role of Jack would famously go to DiCaprio when he was 21 years old, and he admitted years after Titanic became a cult classic that he had never watched it. He claims not to watch a majority of his films. DiCaprio told Deadline in 2025 that he had only one regret about taking on the film. At the same time he was offered the role, he was also in line to star in Paul Thomas Anderson’s directorial debut Boogie Nights.

“The dilemma for me at that point, was, of course, I would’ve loved to have done both movies, but it just couldn’t happen at that moment,” he explained.

DiCaprio was the original choice to play the lead role of Eddie Adams, also known as Dirk Diggler. As he signed on to do Titanic, he suggested to Anderson that his The Basketball Diaries co-star, Mark Wahlberg, would fit the role.

Related: Julie Andrews Confirms She Won’t Return as Queen Clarisse in ‘The Princess Diaries 3’

The massive Disney fan event D23 has officially begun, and as guests await some major anticipated announcements and reveals—from the possibility of a brand-new Avengers: Doomsday trailer to a sneak peek at Hayden Christensen’s Anakin Skywalker costume for Ahsoka season 2 that hints the Star Wars star could be making an appearance—they’ve already been treated to a stunning performance.

Last night, D23 brought the house down with a series of performances from some of the franchise’s best-known Disney princesses singing many of the most iconic songs—including several songs from the ’80s and ’90s.

Among those performers were both Ariel actresses from the animated and live-action Little Mermaid movies, Jodi Benson and Halle Bailey, who sang the beloved song “Part of Your World” together.

View this post on Instagram

Animated and live-action Moana actresses Auliʻi Cravalho and Catherine Laga’aia were yet another Disney duo at the concert, singing “Along the Way,” a new song that was introduced in the live-action remake of Moana, which hit theaters earlier this summer.

View this post on Instagram

Joining these stars were Susan Egan, who played Meg in Hercules; Judy Kuhn, who was the singing voice of Pocahontas in Disney’s Pocahontas; Anika Noni Rose, who played Tiana in The Princess and the Frog; Lea Salonga, who was the singing voice of both Mulan in Disney’s Mulan and Jasmine in Aladdin; Paige O’Hara, who voiced Belle in Beauty and the Beast; and Brandy, who played Cinderella in Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella.

At the end of the concert, the Disney stars all came together to sing the song “When You Wish Upon a Star,” which has become a signature of the franchise over the last several decades.

View this post on Instagram

The festivities are far from over at this year’s D23, though. The event will run until Sunday, Aug. 16, and there are many more surprises, performances, panels and announcements still to come.

Hugh Masekela‘s 1968 song, “Grazing in the Grass,” featured on The Promise of a Future album, is arguably the late trumpeter’s most popular tune. The 2-minute-and-37-second jazz song provided listeners with an upbeat experience and ended up landing on the No. 1 Billboard Hot 100 spot the year it was released, as reported by NPR.

During a 1988 interview with the publication, Masekela, born in 1939, discussed taking the tune to the studio. He explained that he had been playing “Grazing in the Grass,” which was Philemon Hou‘s composition, at live events. Masekela said that when he was recording The Promise of a Future, saxophonist Al Abreu recommended adding “Grazing in the Grass” to the album.

“And the late Al Abreu, who played with me on ‘Grazing’ in that quintet I had – we were in the studio doing the album Promise Of A Future. We needed about four minutes more on the album, and we didn’t have another song,” recalled Masekela, who lived until he was 78, while speaking to NPR in the 1988 interview. “And Al Abreu said, remember that? He liked it very much. He said, there’s that song, man, that you always play, that we always play, you know? We should try and do that because of that simple part. So I just showed the piano player what to do and sang the four notes to the bass player. And we did it in one take. And six weeks later, it was No. 1.”

The song was later revamped by the group, The Friends of Distinction. Their 1969 remake, which had lyrics written by frontman Harry Elston, became quite a memorable tune. During an interview with Rebeat, Elston discussed recording The Friends of Distinction’s take on “Grazing in the Grass.”

“Well, I first called it ‘Flaking in the Grass’ because I didn’t know I could use the same title as the instrumental since I was changing the song and adding lyrics. But everybody was like, ‘Get out of here!’ so I came back with the same music and title and they loved it,” said Elston, who died in 2025 when he was 86. “We recorded it at RCA for our first album, and from then things happened very quickly. We weren’t teenagers, but we were pretty young, and not knowing how things worked, we just rode the wave. We didn’t know until later how big the song was.” 

Sorry to burst your bubble, but the thing no one tells you about adulthood is that one day you’ll wake up and realize you can’t chase the ice cream truck like a frenzied sugar fiend anymore. Sure, you can in theory, but be prepared for several side-eyes and the occasional shove from a 12-year-old who just can’t wait to get their hands on an ice cream sandwich.

Fortunately, having adult money means that instead of frantically begging your mom to spot you a few bucks before the ice cream truck drives away, you can just stop by the grocery store and stock up on all the ice cream you’ve ever wanted completely judgment-free. 

😋😋 SIGN UP to get delicious recipes, handy kitchen hacks & more in our daily Pop Kitchen newsletter 🍳🍔

Whether you’re a fervent Chunky Monkey lover or you’re more into seasonal flavors like Ben & Jerry’s returning Pumpkin Cheesecake, the only thing stopping you is how much space you have in your freezer. Still, nothing beats the feeling of sinking your teeth into a Strawberry Shortcake Bar after successfully chasing down the ice cream man before he disappears around the corner.

Luckily, lots of our favorite ’90s ice cream treats can be found in grocery stores today. And although you won’t get the same rush that comes with catching the ice cream man at the very last second, they still taste just as good as you remember.

Just in case you need to jog your memory, we’ve rounded up the six store-bought ice cream treats that’ll remind you of the good old days when all you had to worry about was making it home before the street lights came on. Consider this your trip down memory lane to the best ice cream treats of the ’90s. 

Related: Check Your Cabinets: These ’90s Fast-Food Glasses Are Now Worth Hundreds

The Grocery Store Ice Cream Treats That Defined the ’90s

Are you even a ’90s kid if you don’t remember at least one of these sweet treats? Here are the six frozen favorites you can still find in grocery stores today.

1. Nestlé Push-Ups

As a kid growing up in the ’90s, there wasn’t a more ubiquitous treat than the Nestlé Push-Up, specifically the Flintstones variety. They were easy to eat, delicious, and came in flavors like Fred’s Yabba Dabba Doo Orange, Wilma’s Limerock Lime, and Barney’s Raspberry Rubble. Unfortunately, the Flintstones line has since been discontinued, but you can still find the regular line of Push-Ups in stores like Walmart, Kroger and Dollar General.

2. Good Humor Strawberry Shortcake Bars View this post on Instagram

Whatever genius had the bright idea to turn the iconic strawberry shortcake into an ice cream bar honestly deserves every good thing the world has to offer. There’s nothing like ripping open that bright red package and biting into the crunchy outer coating juxtaposed with the creamy interior. It’s a near-perfect treat, and lucky for us, it’s one of the few things from the ’90s that never went out of style.

3. Bomb Pops View this post on Instagram

Bomb Pops might be having a moment as of late, but they were also all the rage in the ’90s thanks to their vibrant colors and bold fruit flavors. These stunning ice pops stained many a tongue blue and made for some pretty epic throwback photos. Thankfully, you can pass on the nostalgia to your kiddos and grab a box of these at your nearest local grocery store. 

4. Good Humor Creamsicle Bars View this post on Instagram

It could have something to do with growing up hearing Kel from Kenan & Kel proudly profess his love for orange soda, but yours truly has always been in love with orange-flavored anything—especially an Orange Cream bar. It’s the perfect mix of creamy vanilla soft serve mixed with the bright, citrusy tang of orange. And whether you call them Creamsicles or not really comes down to semantics. No matter what you call them, you should definitely head to your nearest Walmart and grab a box. 

5. Good Humor Chocolate Eclair Bars View this post on Instagram

Although they might not have been as popular as their fruit-forward counterparts, Good Humor’s Chocolate Eclair Bars were up there among one of our go-to ice cream picks in the ’90s. With rich, creamy ice cream surrounding a chocolatey core and coated in crunchy chocolate cake crumbs on the outside, we’ll take two, please. 

6. Popsicle Character Ice Pops View this post on Instagram

When we weren’t eating our weight in Bomb Pops and Strawberry Shortcake Bars, we were probably biting the side of Spongebob’s head off or geeking out over eating our favorite Ninja Turtle. Enjoying our favorite cartoon characters turned into ice pops complete with gumball eyes was one of those ’90s rites of passage that we’ll remember for the rest of time—even if they did come out looking a little wonky sometimes.  

How ’90s Ice Cream Trends Are Making a Comeback

Although several of the ice cream treats we grew up on in the ’90s never actually disappeared, some of them fell out of favor due to a collective shift away from the excessive added sugars, artificial flavors and food dyes that were so prevalent during that decade. Ice cream trucks also aren’t as common today as they used to be, leaving it up to us to make an effort to actually stock our freezers with treats beyond a pint of Ben & Jerry’s or Jeni’s.

Today, it appears that the pendulum is swinging back in the other direction. Nostalgia-starved millennials (i.e., yours truly) are making a concerted effort to revitalize some of the more whimsical parts of our youth. Brands are also tapping into that sentiment by reformulating some of our favorite items to modernize them and better fit our lifestyles today. Whether that means the return of classic parlor flavors like bubblegum and tutti fruitti or the hopeful return of the Choco Taco, we can’t wait to see what else is in store for us in the ice cream aisle.

Discontinued ’90s Ice Creams We Wish Would Return

Speaking of the ‘90s ice cream treats we hope return, there are several discontinued favorites that deserve a second act. Here are five we’re still mourning. 

1. Klondike Choco Taco View this post on Instagram

You probably remember exactly where you were when you got the news that the beloved Choco Taco was being discontinued in July of 2022. The treat was made up of a waffle cone taco shell filled with reduced-fat vanilla ice cream and coated in fudge, peanuts and a milk chocolate shell. It was pulled by Unilever, its parent company, due to an “unprecedented spike in demand” across its portfolio for other treats that forced it to “make very tough decisions to ensure availability of our full portfolio nationwide.”

Although there have been various attempts to bring the iconic treat back—most recently Taco Bell and Salt & Straw delivered their own limited-edition variation called the Tacolate—nothing seems to have fully stuck. Regardless, we’ve still got our fingers crossed for the day it makes its dazzling return.

2. Jell-O Pudding Pops View this post on Instagram

Jell-O Pudding Pops were all the rage in the late ’80s and early ’90s due to their buzzy partnership with Bill Cosby at arguably the height of his career. This alternative to the popsicle was richer and creamier, and it came packed with all the familiar taste of Jell-O’s signature chocolate and vanilla pudding mixes. Unfortunately, after a brief resurgence in 2004, the beloved frozen treat was discontinued due to low sales and a change in taste and texture. Fortunately, you can make your own version with Jell-O’s pudding mixes right at home.

3. Butterfinger Ice Cream Nuggets

Butterfinger Ice Cream Nuggets disappeared almost as fast as they came, but we think they were just way ahead of their time. This impossibly poppable treat consisted of creamy vanilla ice cream encased in a chocolate and Butterfinger shell. It was like the ice cream version of Whoppers or like those Cookie Dough Bites you get at the movie theater. Unfortunately, they only lasted for about five years on the market before they were abruptly pulled from freezers.

4. Popsicle Sprinklers Ice Cream Bars

Before there was Dot Cake, there were the multicolored Popsicle Sprinklers Ice Cream Bars that, quite honestly, would be very on trend today. These visually stunning treats were made up of creamy vanilla ice cream dipped in chocolate and then coated with tiny, crunchy rainbow nonpareil sprinkles. They were basically a Dot Cake in ice cream form. Sadly, they disappeared without a trace in the early 2000s. We think they deserve a comeback.

5. Good Humor Toasted Almond Bars @1.pris

@Good Humor PLEASEEEE I NEED THE TOASTED ALMOND BACK !!! I WENT A WHOLE PREGNANCY WITHOUT THEM AND NOTHING COMPARES !!! #goodhumor #icecream #fyp #greenscreen

♬ original sound – Priscilla C

Although you might not have seen too many kids choosing Good Humor Toasted Almond Bars over the strawberry shortcake version, our fresh adult eyes have realized the error of our ways. And while this decadent treat may not have resonated with our younger selves, it was a staple in our grandma’s freezer for good reason. Like its chocolate eclair and strawberry shortcake counterparts, the Toasted Almond Bars featured vanilla ice cream wrapped around an almond-flavored core coated in a crunchy cake and toasted almond exterior. We’d definitely take a time machine back to the ’90s for this one.

These ’90s ice cream treats take us right back to childhood. Let us know if we missed your favorite in the comments!

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

If you’ve been patiently waiting for more details on the highly anticipated Avatar expansion coming to the West Coast, the wait is officially over.

Disney fans are currently gathered in Anaheim for D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event, and the convention floor is already delivering some massive reveals. One of the biggest showstoppers at this year’s event is the Imagineering: Horizons pavilion, where Disney just unveiled a highly detailed, 3D physical model of the brand-new Avatar land heading to Disney California Adventure.

While then-Disney CEO Bob Iger first teased the idea of a Disneyland Avatar experience back in 2023-2024, the project had mostly lived in the “Blue-Sky” conceptual phase. Now, seeing it in physical, 3D form proves this immersive expansion is officially full steam ahead—and it is heavily inspired by the stunning aquatic world seen in Avatar: The Way of Water.

Related: Disneyland Fans Will Have to Say Goodbye to a ‘Perfect Dark Ride’ in 2027

View this post on Instagram

Reporting straight from the media preview on the D23 show floor, Myranda Juarez of the Disney Food Blog got an up-close look at the intricate new model and shared some incredible insights into how the land is taking shape.

“From afar, the model looks very similar to the concept art that’s been released earlier, especially the massive rock formation that almost forms a half circle,” Juarez noted. “We’re so happy to see this design has continued to stick around in this rockwork creation.”

Beyond the breathtaking scale of the cascading waterfalls and giant rock structures, the model gave fans their very first clue as to where exactly this new land will sit within Disneyland Resort.

Related: In a Surprising Twist, Disney Guests Will Get One More Year With This Beloved Pixar Ride

“There’s something really important to notice, though, off to the right — you can see exactly how this land will fit in with the Monorail outside the park!” Juarez pointed out.

Of course, the biggest question on everyone’s mind is what the actual ride will be. Disney previously teased that the new California expansion will feature a brand-new attraction, describing it as a thrilling excursion highlighting both the beauty and the danger of a Pandora water journey. Thanks to the new physical model, eagle-eyed reporters were able to spot the very first hints of the ride vehicle itself.

“Based on Disney’s previous plans, there is supposed to be a ride in here somewhere, and if you look REALLY closely, you can see one of the boats in the water, seemingly part of the attraction that will be here,” Juarez reported.

With guests eventually able to stand right at the base of the massive rock structures to take in the views of the floating boats and rushing waterfalls, it looks like Disney California Adventure is about to get a jaw-dropping new skyline. We will definitely be keeping our eyes peeled for more ride details as D23 weekend continues!

Related: Disney Just Revealed Exciting New Details for Its First-Ever ‘Coco’ Ride—and We Are Officially Feeling ‘Un Poco Loco’

Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

Late summer is as synonymous with dresses as those early, balmy days of the season. Inching closer to fall, though, you might find that you need something that offers a little more coverage. The transition to cooler weather can be tricky, but a pretty option like the Time and Tru Puff-Sleeve Dress gives you the chance to extend dress season thanks to its midi length.

It’s an amazing value at Walmart right now, reduced from its usual $30 to just $15 in your choice of three classic colors. Options include olive, navy, and sky blue, all etched with a distinctive white geometric pattern. They’re available in assorted sizes ranging from extra small to 4X.

Time and Tru Puff-Sleeve Dress, $15 (was $30) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

A fresh interpretation of the milkmaid dress trend that’s swept closets over the last couple of years, this is all about the romantic details. The sleeves have subtle volume, but aren’t overly billowy or exaggerated. A square neckline and stretchy but fitted bodice add a clean detail to the look, nicely balancing the otherwise breezy and flowy silhouette. The self-tie detail at the back of the neck adds a customizable touch, allowing you to adjust the neckline to your preference. 

Upkeep is a breeze, too. The dress is made from 100% cotton, and it’s safe to toss in the washing machine using cold water and a gentle cycle. Then just dry on low heat. Several shoppers noted that it’s held up well, with the fabric maintaining its soft texture through repeated wears. “Very nice quality material,” one person said. “Looks like it was high priced.”

A reviewer agreed, writing that it “looks expensive” and highlighting the “beautiful, well-made” design. Another customer pointed out that they could easily transition it from warmer days to fall weather simply by adding layers and swapping sandals for warmer footwear. 

Related: Walmart’s $20 Ballet-Inspired Loungewear Set Is ‘Super Soft,’ ‘Comfy,’ and ‘Flattering’ for Fall 

The style is versatile enough that you’ll want to make it a multi-season part of your rotation. During spring and summer, it’s a cute choice for outdoor events, work, and even errand runs when paired with sandals, heels, or sneakers. And as it cools down outside, you can continue to do the same simply by throwing on a cardigan or jacket.

Shop More Deals

• Free Assembly Bow Ballet Flats, $11 (was $35) at Walmart
• Fantaslook Color Block Sweatshirt, $15 (was $26) at Walmart
• Cate & Chloe Simulated Diamond Knot Necklace, $18 (was $40) at Walmart

The endless styling possibilities alone make this a smart buy, but at $15 it’s well worth it even if you’re just looking for a summer piece you’ll wear for years to come. Snap up the Time and Tru Puff-Sleeve Dress while it’s in stock in your preferred size and color at Walmart!

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.

American writer and novelist Alison Espach is beloved by readers for writing lovable and relatable books that grip you, and you can’t put down. Espach’s third novel, The Wedding People, was a huge hit when it came out in 2024, winning the Goodreads Choice Award for Fiction that same year and becoming a New York Times bestseller, and it spent a whopping 39 weeks on the list.

The Wedding People is still wildly popular with readers and was ranked at No. 6 on the list of the “Most Read Books of 2026,” according to Goodreads. On the platform, users have “shelved” the book more than 605,000 times, and it holds a 4.06 rating out of 5.

View this post on Instagram

Readers on Goodreads have said of The Wedding People:

• “Words cannot do justice to how brilliant this book is. The author left me speechless, a blubbering machine like those waving cat statues you see in Eastern places, with the exception that I kept repeating, ‘I love it! I love it! I love it!'”
• “this book was perfect—there was truly nothing i would change 🥹 it’s been a minute since i’ve felt this passionately and happy about a book and if you’ve been following me for awhile, you know my 5 stars are rare.”
• “I don’t know how a book with such heavy subject matter also happens to be laugh out loud funny, but I just adored every second of this and didn’t want it to end 😭”

In The Wedding People, literature professor Phoebe Stone heads to the grand Cornwall Inn in Newport, R.I. While Phoebe may look the part of just another lavish guest of the inn, she’s actually there because she is depressed, has hit rock bottom, and wants one last night of opulence before she plans on taking her own life. When Phoebe ends up meeting and bonding with a bride getting married that weekend at the Cornwall, her plans are derailed as she gets fully absorbed into the wedding madness. In a tender but funny and devastating tale, The Wedding People explores chance encounters, grief, and the beauty we can find in the unexpected.

The Wedding People is out now and available wherever books are sold.

🎬SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox🎬

Related: Best-Selling Haunting Mystery Novel Ranked a ‘Most Read Book of 2026’ on Goodreads

If you’ve been humming “Remember Me” ever since Pixar’s Coco won your heart, get ready to celebrate. Disney is officially pulling back the curtain on one of its most anticipated theme park attractions in years—and it looks every bit as colorful, magical, and musically rich as the Oscar-winning film.

As Disney fans gather in Anaheim for D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event, the show floor has become a treasure trove of breaking theme park announcements, ride vehicle reveals, and scale models. Among the biggest showstoppers stealing the spotlight this weekend is an exciting fresh look at the brand-new Coco attraction heading to Disney California Adventure at the Disneyland Resort.

Related: Disney Shares First Look at Sprawling New Villains Land Opening in Magic Kingdom

A First Look at Héctor and Groundbreaking Animatronics View this post on Instagram

While Disney previously confirmed that the beloved animated story would finally get its very first dedicated theme park attraction, this weekend’s D23 showcase gave fans a tangible glimpse into the world Imagineers are building.

Front and center on the showroom floor is a stunning, highly detailed physical figure of Héctor—the charismatic skeleton musician voiced by Gael García Bernal in the film. The display serves as a direct preview of the cutting-edge, next-generation Audio-Animatronics Disney is crafting to bring the vibrant Land of the Dead to life.

According to Disney Imagineering, the ride will draw deep creative inspiration from iconic Disney dark ride classics like the Haunted Mansion and Pirates of the Caribbean. Guests will embark on a scenic, musically driven journey alongside Miguel, traveling across the marigold bridge into the glowing skeleton metropolis filled with festive music, beloved characters, and dazzling alebrijes.

Related: Disney Shares In-Depth Look at New Pixar-Themed Land Opening in Magic Kingdom

A Weekend Packed with Huge Theme Park News

The Coco sneak peek is just one part of a massive wave of Disney parks news rolling out across D23 weekend. From first looks at the ride vehicles for the new Encanto attraction heading to Walt Disney World, to updates on the expansion of Avengers Campus and the highly anticipated Villains Land coming to Magic Kingdom, Disney is pulling out all the stops to map out the next decade of park adventures.

For Disney California Adventure, the Coco ride marks a major milestone as the film’s first-ever standalone ride anywhere in the world. With Disney promising that authentic Mexican music, heartwarming storytelling, and show-stopping animatronics will take center stage, it is shaping up to be an instant classic for the whole family.

Related: Disney Shares New Look At Its Latest Storyliving by Disney Community in North Carolina

Kelly Osbourne comes to the defense of her late rockstar father, Ozzy Osbourne, after Twisted Sister frontman Dee Snider makes a shocking accusation about his music.

Black Sabbath and Osbourne are legends in the rock industry, but Snider made a bold claim on X that the infamous rocker didn’t write his own music. The conversation started online between Snider and fans, as one fan commented that he was stunned to have learned that Motörhead frontman Lemmy Kilmister made more money writing four songs for Osbourne than with the band.

Snider commented back that he knows “too much about the truth behind the scenes,” and it’s a topic of conversation that Sharon Osbourne doesn’t like to share. Another fan commented that Black Sabbath’s bassist Bob Daisley also wrote many tracks.

“A load”? How about ALL the lyrics? Ozzy always had bass players write his lyrics. @geezerbutler wrote ALL of @BlackSabbath lyrics. Daisley wrote lyrics for the first two solo albums (I’m pretty sure he was paid to write on other records but not credited) & Lemmy wrote lyrics,” responded Snider.

“A load”? How about ALL the lyrics? Ozzy always had bass players write his lyrics. @geezerbutler wrote ALL of @BlackSabbath lyrics. Daisley wrote lyrics for the first two solo albums (I’m pretty sure he was paid to write on other records but not credited) & Lemmy wrote lyrics. https://t.co/yRTF19ro4w

— Dee Snider🇺🇸🎤 (@deesnider) August 12, 2026

Following the Twister Sister singer’s comments, Kelly posted a response on her Instagram stories to defend her father’s legacy and contribution to the rock genre.

“My father’s legacy as a musician, songwriter, singer and bandleader speaks for itself,” she wrote, “His friends, those who who worked with him, those who love him, and millions of fans around the world that still continue to buy his records know exactly what he meant what he contributed and what he leaves behind. His legacy will live on eternally.”

Kelly posted again an hour later in a scathing takedown of Snider, calling him “spectacularly classless” and “irrelevant.” She called out the singer for “trying to diminish” her father’s impact, especially as Ozzy is no longer with them to challenge his allegations. In return, she pointed out her father and Daisley’s falling out decades ago and his “vendetta” towards Ozzy. Above all, she compared Ozzy’s long-lasting legacy to Snider’s.

“Snider had a brief period of mainstream success more than 40 years ago. My fathers [sic] career spanned nearly six decades — from helping define heavy metal with Black Sabbath to building an extraordinary solo career,” she write. “His music will continue influencing generations long after all of us are gone.”

In her post, she adds that she doesn’t understand Snider’s reasoning for belittling her father’s career, but thanks Snider for “allowing the world to see how truly desperate he really is.” Snider has yet to comment on Kelly’s response.

Related: Deep Purple Guitarist, Ritchie Blackmore, to Rejoin the Band After More Than 30 Years

Dolly Parton is sitting out another major appearance.

The 80-year-old country legend was scheduled to appear at Dollywood on Friday, August 14, to celebrate the upcoming opening of a new rollercoaster, but instead surprised attendees with a video message from Nashville.

“I’m supposed to be there in person like we planned,” Parton explained in a video shared to Instagram. “Now, I’ve told you before, all my fans, that I’ve had a few little health issues and sometimes I get a little dizzy.”

Parton—who was wearing a pink bedazzled top and butterfly wings—went on to reveal that dehydration was behind her latest change of plans. “I get dehydrated, and I’m dehydrated and so my Nashville doctor kind of clipped my wings, saying you ain’t traveling this week,” she said.

View this post on Instagram

Despite missing the event, Parton appeared upbeat and encouraged those at Dollywood to enjoy the celebration without her.

Parton was supposed to celebrate Dollywood’s newest ride

The new coaster, called NightFlight Expedition, is a “first ride of its kind” roller coaster and whitewater hybrid attraction. The five-and-a-half-minute experience takes riders through an indoor facility, reaching speeds of 29 mph, and heights of nearly three stories. Season passholders will get an early preview on August 15 before the attraction officially opens to the public August 19.

READ MORE: Dolly Parton Addresses Sylvester Stallone Marriage Rumor

It’s actually the second NightFlight event Parton has been unable to attend. She also appeared virtually for the ride’s September 2025 announcement while dealing with kidney stones, telling attendees she was “with [them] in spirit.”

Her last major appearance came in June

Parton was last seen making a surprise public appearance on June 24 for the grand opening of Dolly’s Tennessean Travel Stop in Cornersville, Tennessee.

She was in good spirits at the event and even took a playful jab at Buc-ee’s while discussing why she entered the travel-stop business. “I’m sure some of you wondered why I wanted a truck stop—well, I couldn’t leave it to beavers,” she joked.

Parton has previously assured fans that her recent health issues are “treatable.” In May, she said she was “improving every day,” although some of her treatments could leave her feeling “a little bit swimmy-headed.”

Mark Rydell, who earned a Best Director Academy Award nomination for the Oscar-winning film On Golden Pond, has died at 97.

Bette Midler posted about his death on Instagram on Friday, Aug. 14. He worked with her on projects such as The Rose and For the Boys.

Midler captioned the post, “Mark Rydell, the director or my first film, The Rose, died this morning. He was an actor of note before he became a director, and I was so lucky to have met him when I did; he taught me so much on The Rose and later on For The Boys. Two Oscars nominations both because of him. He was the actor’s whisperer; just a few words was all it took to understand what was needed. Devoted to Meisner. So many happy memories.”

The director was born Mortimer H. Rydell on March 23, 1929. He grew up in New York City, studying music with the hope of becoming an orchestra conductor. After attending The Neighborhood Playhouse School of the Theatre, he knew he wanted to be an actor. Rydell saw success in the mid-1950s and early ’60s, appearing on the New York-based soap operas The Edge of Night and As the World Turns.

In the mid-1060s, he began to pivot as a director. His early TV credits included episodes of The Virginian, Mr. Novak, 10 episodes of Ben Casey, I Spy, The Wild Wild West, The Fugitive, and Gunsmoke.

Rydell’s feature film directorial debut was in 1967 with The Fox, starring Sandy Dennis, Anne Heywood, and Keir Dullea.

He is best-known for directing On Golden Pond. The 1981 film, adapted from Ernest Thompson’s play, follows an aging couple enjoying one of their last summers at a New England lake when their estranged daughter leaves her teenage stepson with them. It earned three out of the 10 Academy Awards it was up for.

On Golden Pond was Henry Fonda‘s last starring role and would end up being the only film he co-starred in with his daughter, Jane Fonda.

Mark Rydell is survived by his three children, Amy, Christopher, and Alexander.

Meghan Trainor gave her son a lookalike doll to deal with separation anxiety, and the results are hilarious.

The beloved pop star, 32, who is known for her viral hit “All About That Bass,” shared a new video in which she introduced the doll that resembles her.

“My sweet 5-year-old boy is having separation anxiety,” Trainor shared. “So he’s started using his stuffies, his Smurfette, and was like, ‘This is Mama, this is Mama,’ and I thought, ‘I’ll make a mama, I’ll make a stuffie that looks like Mama.’”

However, viewers probably weren’t prepared for how accurate the customized doll is.

“The thing is, I did,” Trainor said, revealing the doll that sports the same short blonde hair and glasses as she does. “And he loves it. He kisses it, he hugs it.”

Riley ran over to his mother and repeated “mama” to her.

Watch the hilarious clip below:

View this post on Instagram

🎬 SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬 

Trainor Shared Her Workout Regimen For Her 32nd Birthday

Trainor celebrated her 32nd birthday in December, and it was perfect timing. Recently, her trainer, Bella Maher of Malibu Bodies, took to Instagram to share a video of the singer showing off her strength training regimen. If you’re looking to pick up the weights like Trainor, here’s your chance!

In the video, Trainor, who is married to Daryl Sabada, can be seen doing a weight-lifting routine that combines everything from ball slams and banded squats to hip thrusts and rope slams. Dressed in all pink and sporting a pair of glasses, the singer is clearly putting in the work to be happy and healthy.

“Body built by @malibubodies! Training for a body that feels good forever!!” the caption read.

View this post on Instagram Her Before-and-After Photos

Back in October, Trainor showed off her dramatic weight loss for the camera in a series of photos posted to Instagram by Maher. In a before-and-after photo, Trainor can be seen sporting working clothes and smiling for the camera with her eyes closed. But in the caption, Maher opened up, stating that the difference between the two photos is more than just dramatic weight loss.

“Watching her transform from the inside out has been one of the most meaningful parts of my work. She did so much of this on her own before ever introducing a GLP-1, and even after starting it, the medication was simply a support, not the reason for her results. GLP-1s can be a powerful tool, but they’re certainly not a transformation plan. SHE is the reason this worked,” Maher wrote. “She prioritized strength training, protein, intention, structure, and showing up even on the days she didn’t feel like it. She built this. She earned this. And now she gets to live in a body that supports her for life. SO proud of you, my girl!! EDIT: AND P.S. it was actually Jan 2024, not 2023!!”

View this post on Instagram Trainor Opened Up About Her Weight Loss

The previous March, Trainor spoke on Instagram about how honored she was to be recognized by Billboard as a “Woman in Music.” However, she expressed disappointment that people were more focused on her slimmer appearance than her music achievements. In the caption, she revealed she had been using Mounjaro, the brand name for the injectable prescription drug tirzepatide.

“It’s a little disheartening that so many of the questions (and comments) were focused on my body instead of my music, my passion, or the decade of hard work that got me here. This is what it’s like to be a woman in the music industry,” Trainor shared. “No, I don’t look like I did 10 years ago. I’ve been on a journey to be the healthiest, strongest version of myself for my kids and for me. I’ve worked with a dietitian, made huge lifestyle changes, started exercising with a trainer, and yes, I used science and support (shoutout to Mounjaro!) to help me after my 2nd pregnancy. And I’m so glad I did because I feel great.”

View this post on Instagram

Trainor also had plastic surgery, undergoing a breast lift and getting breast implants.

“I love my results so much,” she shared on social media after the surgery. “My breasts look fuller yet completely natural, and they complement my body proportions beautifully.” She also joked that her breasts are “finally twin sisters and not distant cousins.”

Related: Meghan Trainor’s Before-And-After Weight Loss Photos Show a Serious Body Transformation

When a group or musician has massive success with their debut body of work, it’s natural that they’ll be eager to replicate it with their second. But oftentimes, people run into the “sophomore slump” and what comes after the debut doesn’t live up to the hype. This was the opposite what happened for Black Sabbath in 1970 when they released their sophomore album, Paranoid.

Since its release 56 years ago, Paranoid has gone on to be considered one of the most influential heavy metal and classic rock albums of all time. It was ranked No. 1 on the list of the “100 Greatest Metal Albums of All Time” by Rolling Stone and was listed at No. 139 on the publication’s list of the “500 Greatest Albums of All Time.” In terms of sophomore albums specifically, Consequence ranked Paranoid at No. 2 on their list of the “100 Best Sophomore Albums of All Time,” just behind Nirvana’s Nevermind.

https://open.spotify.com/album/714ndVxSx8lIWhQxdbcXIs

Black Sabbath’s eponymous debut album was a hit in both the United Kingdom and the United States, and the group’s label was eager to capitalize on that success. The band teamed up with producer Rodger Bain just four months after their debut’s release and recorded Paranoid entirely between June 16 and 18 in 1970, ultimately releasing it in the U.K. in September of that same year. The album was released in the U.S. in January of the following year, in 1971.

While Paranoid received little radio play, its chart success allowed Black Sabbath to tour in the United States for the first time in the fall of 1970. Its success also allowed for the release of the second single, “Iron Man,” which went on to be one of the band’s best-known and signature songs.

Critically, the album is recognized for being one of the most heavily influential pieces of heavy rock work. Guitar World called the Paranoid “the definitive choice for guitarists who recognize that rhythm parts are more important than solos.”

🎬SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox🎬

Related: Iconic Opening Guitar Riff From One of the ‘Greatest Rock Songs of All Time’ Was Perfected 61 Years Ago

A popular brand of vegan cheese puffs is being recalled due to undisclosed allergens.

The Canadian-made cheese puffs were mislabeled, according to a notice posted on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) website on Wednesday, Aug. 12. Frankie’s Organic is recalling 94 cases of the Plant-Based Vegan Cheddar Puffs because they may contain undeclared milk. Milk allergies or severe sensitivities can result in serious or life-threatening allergic reactions, according to the FDA.

The recall was initiated after two complaints of allergic reactions from consuming the product were filed in Canada.

The Plant-Based Vegan Cheddar Puffs were sold at PCC Markets in Washington State and at Earth Fare Stores in Florida and South Carolina. They were also available at independent retailers in those areas.

The recall is limited to the Organic Plant-Based Vegan Cheddar Puffs in a 4-ounce bag with Best If Used by: 05 16 2027 and a UPC code of 816929000089. No other Frankie’s Organic products are impacted.

“At Frankie’s Organic, the safety of consumers is the top priority. Frankie’s Organic follows the highest possible food safety and quality control standards to ensure the safety and full enjoyment of its snacks,” the recall notice stated.

It continued, “The root cause has been found to be an ingredient at the supplier level of seasoning that contains the allergen. Frankie’s Organic is committed to implementing corrective actions following from the investigation of this event.”

The FDA urges customers to either discard or return the affected product to the place of purchase for a full refund.

Disney is preparing for some major changes at its iconic Magic Kingdom theme park.

In addition to sharing new details about upcoming new park areas like the Cars-themed Piston Peak National Park and the mysterious Villains Land, WDW News Today confirmed an inside look at the new refurbishments to the beloved Tomorrowland staple, Carousel of Progress.

According to the website, Disney is set to upgrade the fan-favorite Disney attraction by pushing its central narrative back to the latter days of the 20th century.

As part of the new overhaul, Disney provided a first look at the various scenes, outfits, characters and settings for the refurbished version of the ride, all of which mark some sweeping changes to the Carousel of Progress’s usual presentation.

Reopening in 2027, Carousel of Progress has experienced six major iterations since its initial debut at the New York World’s Fair in 1964. Over the years, the company has updated the attraction to help keep the Carousel’s settings and characters relevant among modern audiences, with its last overhaul coming in 1993.

The new version of the ride will specifically cover a number of new scenes and settings, moving from the 1960s, to Halloween in the 1980s, to New Year’s Eve in 1999, to the distant future of tomorrow, characterized by off-planet human colonies and robotic assistants.

For those upset by some of the changes in store for the ride, fret not! The lovable canine companion Rover will remain a part of the new Carousel of Progress, as will it as its famous theme song, “There’s a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow,” written by the legendary Sherman brothers.

Perhaps most interestingly, the new version of the Carousel of Progress will also feature an opening scene with the first-ever audio-animatronic of Walt Disney, inspired by his appearance at the 1964 World’s Fair discussing his original vision for the attraction.

There are plenty of ways to make a cocktail feel fancy. You can break out the shaker, make homemade flavored simple syrup, or start muddling herbs and fruit like you’re behind a beachside cabana bar. Or, apparently, you can just crack open a can of Dr Pepper.

It turns out the familiar soda makes a surprisingly good starting point for a summer cocktail. That’s partly because Dr Pepper isn’t exactly a one-note mixer. The soda is famously built around a blend of 23 flavors, which means you’re starting with plenty of sweetness, fruit, spice and carbonation before you add anything else to the glass.

😋😋 SIGN UP to get delicious recipes, handy kitchen hacks & more in our daily Pop Kitchen newsletter 🍳🍔

Better yet, it only takes three additions to steer all of that familiar Dr Pepper flavor in an entirely different direction and turn it into a Cherry Dr Pepper Margarita. Together, those three simple ingredients balance some of the soda’s sweetness; add a brighter, more grown-up edge; and turn something you’d normally drink straight from the can into a fizzy summer drink that feels like something you’d find on a craft cocktail menu.

Best of all, there’s nothing particularly complicated about making a cherry-flavored Dr Pepper margarita—no homemade syrups, specialty mixers or course in mixology required. Just a few easy additions, some ice and that can of Dr Pepper already chilling in the fridge.

It’s also easy to build on. Once you have the basic combination down, fresh herbs, flavored rims and other classic cocktail additions can take it in all sorts of directions without requiring a cart full of specialty ingredients.

So, what are the three ingredients that can take an everyday Dr Pepper from soda to summer cocktail? Here’s what to add to create a Cherry Dr Pepper Margarita—and why the combination works so well.

The 3-Ingredient Trick: Unlocking the Dr Pepper Margarita

Courtesy Jim Hoffman

So, what are the three ingredients? Fresh cherries, fresh lime juice and tequila.

Dr Pepper already provides sweetness, spice and carbonation, so these three additions are enough to push the familiar soda firmly into cocktail territory. Tequila brings earthy agave character and a little bite, while fresh lime supplies the tart acidity needed to cut through the soda’s sweetness and give the drink the bright citrus edge you’d expect from a margarita. Fresh cherries add another layer of jammy fruit flavor that plays particularly well with the soda.

Courtesy Jim Hoffman

I decided to give the Cherry Dr Pepper Margarita a try, and it truly couldn’t get much easier. Simply muddle a small handful of fresh, pitted cherries with 1 ounce of fresh lime juice in the bottom of a glass. Stir in 2 ounces of tequila, add ice, then top everything with Dr Pepper and give it a gentle stir. A fresh cherry and lime wedge make easy and elegant garnishes.

With the very first sip I noticed just how well balanced the drink is. You get Dr Pepper’s soda-sweet spice, a sharp hit of limey citrus, jammy cherry fruit and the unmistakable agave character of the tequila, but no single flavor completely takes over. It’s refreshing, effervescent and considerably more interesting than you’d expect from something built around a can of soda.

There’s also plenty of room to play with the proportions. Let the Dr Pepper lead, and you get a lighter, sweeter summer sipper; add a little more tequila, and the cocktail takes on a decidedly boozier edge without losing what makes it work. The lime juice is key, keeping the muddled cherries and sweet soda in check, while the tequila gives the drink its more grown-up profile.

It’s an intentionally simplified spin on a margarita. A classic margarita typically includes tequila, lime juice and orange liqueur, but in this case Dr Pepper takes over much of the heavy lifting to create balance. And if you want something a little closer to the classic, there’s plenty of room to build on that basic formula.

Why This Works: The Science of the ‘Dirty Soda’ Trend View this post on Instagram

If the idea of adding a few ingredients to Dr Pepper to completely change the way it tastes sounds familiar, there’s a reason. It’s essentially the same basic idea that helped turn dirty soda into one of the biggest beverage trends of the past few years, flooding social media with posts like Instagrammer Crystal Williamson‘s recent claim that she’s “ridiculously addicted.”

Dirty sodas typically start with a familiar soft drink and layer in flavored syrups, creamers, fresh citrus or other additions. The trend got its start in Utah soda shops before exploding on social media, where seemingly endless combinations turned ordinary fountain drinks into highly customizable creations.

Dr Pepper has become a particularly popular starting point, and even Keurig Dr Pepper has embraced the trend. When the company brought back Dr Pepper Creamy Coconut for summer 2026, it specifically connected the limited-edition flavor to dirty soda culture.

A similar principle applies here. Dr Pepper already brings a surprisingly complex flavor base to the glass, so you don’t need many ingredients to change its personality. Instead of starting with a neutral carbonated mixer and adding several syrups or liqueurs to build flavor, you’re starting with a soda that already brings sweetness, fruit, spice and carbonation to the party.

The difference is what we’re adding. Tequila brings earthy, slightly peppery agave notes, while fresh lime provides acidity and brightness. The muddled cherries reinforce the soda’s fruitier notes while bringing fresh fruit flavor and a little extra texture to the glass. Rather than taking Dr Pepper further into dessert territory with cream and syrup, the combination pulls it in the opposite direction, turning the soda into something brighter, sharper and decidedly more grown-up.

Related: The 2-Ingredient Trick That Turns Welch’s Grape Juice Into the Perfect Fancy Summer Drink

How to Scale: Single Glass vs. Party Pitcher

invizbk / Getty Images

For a single drink, muddle a small handful of fresh cherries with 1 ounce of fresh lime juice, stir in 2 ounces of tequila, add ice and top with Dr Pepper. From there, the proportions are pretty forgiving. More Dr Pepper gives you a lighter, sweeter drink, while less lets the tequila take a more prominent role.

Scaling up for a party is just as easy, but there’s one ingredient you don’t want sitting around in the pitcher: the soda.

Combine the muddled cherries, tequila and lime juice ahead of time and keep the mixture chilled. When you’re ready to serve, pour it over ice and add the Dr Pepper. You could also set out chilled cans or bottles and let guests top their own glasses. Either way, adding the soda at the last minute preserves the carbonation that makes the drink so refreshing.

5 Ways to ‘Dress Up’ Your Soda Cocktail

The Cherry Dr Pepper Margarita already packs plenty of flavor, but it’s also easy to tweak depending on whether you want to push it spicier, fruitier, more tropical or a little closer to a classic margarita.

1. Give it a Tajín rim.

Courtesy Jim Hoffman

The combination of chile, salt and lime adds another layer of flavor while helping counter some of the drink’s sweetness.

2. Add a splash of orange liqueur.

Courtesy Jim Hoffman

Triple sec, Cointreau, Jägermeister Orange or another orange liqueur brings the drink closer to a classic margarita and adds another layer of citrus flavor.

3. Swap the cherries for another fresh fruit.

Courtesy Jim Hoffman

Blueberries, strawberries or raspberries would work particularly well with Dr Pepper’s fruity-spicy profile. Muddle them with the lime just as you would the cherries.

4. Make it coconut.

MurzikNata / Getty Images

Coconut and Dr Pepper are already an established combination, and coconut, lime and tequila work naturally together. Add a small splash of coconut syrup to give the Cherry Dr Pepper Margarita a more tropical spin without burying the soda’s signature flavor.

5. Swap the spirit you use.

panomporn lungmint / Getty Images

Tequila makes sense for a margarita, but it’s certainly not the only spirit that plays well with Dr Pepper. Bourbon or whiskey can emphasize the soda’s warmer, spicier notes and give it more of a smoky profile, while rum takes the drink in a sweeter, more tropical direction. It won’t technically be a margarita anymore, but that’s hardly a reason not to experiment.

The ‘Mocktail’ Version: A Dirty Dr Pepper for Everyone View this post on Instagram

The Cherry Dr Pepper Margarita is also particularly easy to turn into a mocktail, especially with so many nonalcoholic tequila alternatives now available.

For inspiration, I turned to Christine Wayne, founder of On the Mocks, an alcohol-free community dedicated to mocktails and other zero-proof drinks. On her Instagram page @onthemocks, Wayne uses a nonalcoholic tequila to give drinks that familiar agave character without the alcohol.

Following her lead, muddle fresh, pitted cherries with 1 ounce of fresh lime juice in the bottom of a glass. Stir in 2 ounces of nonalcoholic tequila, add ice and top with Dr Pepper. Give everything a gentle stir, and garnish with a cherry and lime wedge.

You still get the same basic interplay that makes the cocktail work: jammy cherry fruit, bright lime, Dr Pepper’s familiar sweet-spiced fizz and a little extra complexity from the tequila alternative. The lime is particularly important here because its acidity helps balance the sweetness of both the soda and cherries.

Of course, you don’t necessarily need a tequila substitute. Leave it out, and the drink starts moving back toward its dirty soda roots. For an even more traditional dirty soda spin, you could add a splash of cream or coconut creamer instead. Either way, fresh cherries, lime and Dr Pepper give you an alcohol-free summer drink that feels like something more special than soda poured over ice.

Related: I Tried the Viral ‘Coca-Cola Lemonade’, and It’s My New Favorite Mocktail

Robbie Williams has revealed a new piece of his mental health story, sharing that he’s recently been diagnosed with autism after years of already living with ADHD.

The singer, 52, made the announcement during a Q&A at the launch of his clothing brand, Hopeium, at Flannels. He said the diagnosis has been strangely freeing, calling it his “get-out-of-jail-free card now.”

Williams first rose to fame at 16 when he joined Take That, and later built a solo career defined by hits like 1997’s ‘Angel.’ Even decades later, and with stadiums full of fans behind him, he says he still contends with intrusive thoughts he can’t always control.

He described one recent moment mid-flight, when an unprompted thought about telekinesis and plane crashes took hold out of nowhere. He’s learned to redirect that kind of thinking into his creative work instead, using it as an outlet rather than sitting with the anxiety.

This latest diagnosis adds to a list Williams has shared piece by piece over the years. He’s said he’s been diagnosed with ADHD three separate times, having forgotten his earlier diagnoses, and last year revealed he’s also been quietly living with Tourette syndrome, though he says his symptoms show up as internal urges rather than visible tics.

Williams has been open before about the toll fame took on him early on, having struggled with addiction and cycled through multiple stints in rehab after rising to prominence in the early ’90s. Even now, after decades of performing both solo and with Take That, he’s said touring itself still leaves him frightened, and that a stadium full of supportive fans doesn’t quiet the noise in his head.

With autism now added to the list, Williams says the diagnosis has finally started to make sense of behavior he could never quite explain.

Sheryl Crow certainly has something to say in her brand-new single, “Freedom Bus.”

The 64-year-old singer dropped a new song on Friday, Aug. 14 ahead of her forthcoming album, Pick You Up — and so far, it sounds like the new record is off to a strong and powerful start.

“Freedom Bus,” featuring guest vocals from singer-songwriter Jessie Welles, is a politically-charged track about the history of freedom in America — particularly involving free speech, and how it has changed amid country’s current, highly polarized political climate.

View this post on Instagram

Crow told Billboard that the song was inspired by her son’s 8th grade class field that she chaperoned, where they paid a visit to Arlington National Cemetery.

“We had a tour guide who was inspired…and the stories were not only inspiring but humbling,” Crow explained. “Everybody is trying to figure out what’s happening now. I don’t know that there’s anybody my age who doesn’t look at it and go, ‘It’s never been like this. It’s never been one side against another like it is now.'”

“I do not take freedom lightly, because our freedom has been paid for in the lives of others throughout history, and that is something I wish we could all remember when we are interacting with each other,” she continued.

“My whole feeling is just because you have the freedom of speech, it doesn’t give you permission to be an assh—le,” said Crow, who specifically sings the line, “Don’t be an assh—le, let everyone be,” in the song’s chorus. “You should care about a thoughtful dialogue. You should care about being able to disagree but still shake hands and hope for the best for everyone. We’ve lost that, and I think it does a disservice to those who not only serve in our military, but throughout our history have defended our way of life — and I feel like our way of life is really hanging in the balance. So that’s really what the song is about.”

“Freedom Bus” is out now, and will be included on Crow’s album Pick You Up, arriving on Oct. 9.

Related: 1993 Alternative Rock Hit, Reimagined by Lainey Wilson, Still Holds Up Over 30 Years Later

Halle Berry is stepping into 60, and she’s only wearing a silk robe to do it.

The Oscar-winning actress, who rose to fame in films like Boomerang and Bulworth, and later earned an Academy Award for her role in Monster’s Ball, took to Instagram to celebrate her 60th birthday in style. Sporting nothing but a floral silk robe, Berry munched on a strawberry as she reclined on outdoor furniture. Now that’s making 60 look better than ever!

“Today….don’t give a f—!” Berry captioned the sultry photo set.

View this post on Instagram

🎬 SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬 

Berry’s Pre-Birthday Post

Yesterday, Berry set the Internet on fire with her pre-birthday post in a sheer dress.

“60 here I come….,” she captioned the photo set.

View this post on Instagram Berry Says Women Deserve To Have Sex at Her Age

In a revealing interview with the UK’s The Times in January, Berry opened up about how she actually believed she would skip menopause. However, she found herself suffering from devastating effects.

“That’s how ignorant I was,” Berry shared, noting she had been suffering from perimenopausal symptoms for years. “I couldn’t remember the most basic things. When my daughter was little, I went to get a pizza and I put the pizza on top of the car and I drove all the way home. Luckily, it stayed on my car.” 

As time went on, her symptoms worsened.

“I would be up all night with night sweats. I couldn’t sleep. I was raging. I was angry all the time,” she noted, adding that she suffered severe bouts of anger and sadness. 

Determined to find an answer, she went on HRT five years ago. However, it didn’t solve every issue. The sexual struggles were significant, and that’s why Berry wants women her age to have the opportunity to conquer them just like men can. Now behind the menopause care brand Respin, Berry wants to encourage women to embrace their sexuality.

“We deserve to be still alive at this time of our lives and have sex and be intimate,” she told the publication. “That’s what makes us who we are. Men got the blue pill real quick because men know that their longevity depends on their ability to stay sexually active. Well, the same is true for us.”

She’s Playing an Elite Escort Next

The next role Berry tackles will be in Fleur, in which she will play a woman who leaves her marriage for Paris and reinvents herself as an elite escort. She said she relates to the role, which she is also producing, in a strange way.

“I relate to a woman who made that choice, putting everybody before herself, and now what’s left for her?” she noted.

Looking back on her child-rearing years, everything wasn’t perfect.

“I kept my career while I had kids and it was a juggling act. I missed big moments with them. But I’ve also been the breadwinner of my 

family… So I’ve had to take care of all of us and sometimes I’ve been resentful of that,” she explained. “But at the same time I’m grateful I held on to my career because when they’re gone, I’m still gonna have me.”

Related: Halle Berry Says “60, Here I Come” in a Sheer Dress That Has Everyone Talking