Parade

Subscribe to Parade feed Parade
Your daily destination for celebrity news, videos, entertainment, food, recipes, health tips, fitness, and games from America's most popular magazine.
Updated: 49 min 21 sec ago

How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost? What Travelers Should Expect To Pay

Tue, 09/29/2026 - 4:30pm

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

Travel insurance can look deceptively simple until you start comparing quotes. Two policies covering the same vacation can have noticeably different premiums, even when the trip dates and destination are identical.

Traveler age, prepaid expenses, medical benefits, cancellation coverage and optional upgrades can all influence the total price. That makes it difficult to judge whether a quote is expensive without looking at what you’re actually getting in return.

So, how much should you expect to pay for travel insurance—and what actually determines the price? Here’s everything you need to know.

TravelInsurance.com lets travelers compare premiums and benefits from multiple insurers side by side, making it easier to see how coverage changes from one plan to another.

How Much Does Travel Insurance Usually Cost?

The National Association of Insurance Commissioners says travel insurance generally costs about 5-10% of the total trip price, although the final premium depends on the traveler and coverage selected. TravelInsurance.com gives a similar range of roughly 4-10% of prepaid, nonrefundable trip costs, while noting that individual policies can vary significantly.

Here’s what a 5-10% premium would look like for several different scenarios:

Trip Cost

5% Premium

10% Premium

$2,000

$100

$200

$5,000

$250

$500

$7,500

$375

$750

$10,000

$500

$1,000

Remember that these figures are examples rather than quotes. Two travelers insuring trips with the same price may still receive different premiums.

Why Does Trip Cost Affect Travel Insurance Prices?

Trip cancellation coverage is often tied to the amount of prepaid, nonrefundable money you’re insuring. As that amount increases, the insurer may have more to reimburse if you cancel for a covered reason.

TravelInsurance.com identifies total trip cost and traveler age as two of the major factors affecting premiums. That doesn’t necessarily mean you should insure every dollar you expect to spend, though.

Refundable hotel reservations, meals you’ll purchase during the trip and other expenses you haven’t prepaid don’t represent the same cancellation exposure as nonrefundable airfare, cruises or tours. Review the policy’s definition of insurable trip cost before entering your quote.

Does Your Age Affect Travel Insurance Cost?

Yes (unfortunately). TravelInsurance.com says older travelers generally pay more for comparable coverage because age is a major variable that insurers consider when setting premiums.

Its current examples show premiums rising as hypothetical travelers get older, although the exact difference varies by insurer, destination and plan. That makes comparison shopping especially useful.

Related: 8 Carry-On Essentials Every Over-40 Traveler Needs

Does More Travel Insurance Coverage Cost More?

Usually. A basic travel and premium policy may cover the same trip but offer very different benefit limits. Plans can vary in:

  • Trip cancellation and interruption limits
  • Emergency medical coverage
  • Medical evacuation coverage
  • Baggage protection
  • Travel-delay benefits
  • Deductibles
  • Optional upgrades

When comparing plans on TravelInsurance.com, look at the benefit limits next to the premium rather than automatically choosing the cheapest policy. A lower price may simply reflect less coverage.

How Much More Does ‘Cancel For Any Reason’ Coverage Cost?

‘Cancel For Any Reason’ coverage, or CFAR, can noticeably increase the premium. Standard trip cancellation coverage reimburses eligible losses only when it results from a reason listed in the policy. CFAR provides broader flexibility but generally reimburses only part of the insured trip cost.

TravelInsurance.com says adding CFAR may increase the base policy price by about 40%. This is important to consider when reimbursement is generally 50-75% of eligible prepaid, nonrefundable trip costs. For this reason, it only makes sense when the added flexibility is worth the higher premium.

Do Destination and Trip Length Change the Price?

They can, although their impact varies by policy. NAIC lists factors such as destination, season and traveler age among variables that may influence travel insurance costs.

TravelInsurance.com also identifies destination and trip length as factors insurers may consider, although its quote comparisons found that trip cost and age had a larger impact in the examples tested. The safest approach is to enter accurate travel dates and destinations rather than assuming one variable will change the premium by a predictable amount.

Related: I Often Travel With My 80-Year-Old Mom and Teens—Here’s the One Thing I Always Do Differently

How Can You Tell if You’re Paying Too Much for Travel Insurance?

Don’t judge the value of a policy by the premium alone. Start by comparing plans using the same trip cost, travelers, dates and destination. Then compare the benefit limits that matter most to you.

A $180 policy isn’t necessarily a better deal than a $250 policy if the less expensive plan has substantially lower medical or evacuation limits. It’s also worth checking the protection you already have. NAIC recommends reviewing existing health insurance, homeowners/renters insurance and credit-card benefits before purchasing travel insurance because some losses may already be covered.

The goal isn’t to buy the policy with the most benefits. It’s to avoid paying for coverage you don’t need while making sure the financial risks you care about are adequately covered.

What Should You Pay for Travel Insurance?

For many travelers, 5-10% of prepaid trip cost is a useful starting benchmark, not a price ceiling. An inexpensive domestic trip with refundable reservations may call for relatively modest coverage. A costly international trip with substantial prepaid expenses, higher medical limits or optional CFAR protection can cost considerably more to insure.

The most useful comparison is between policies covering the same trip and similar risks, rather than between two premiums in isolation.

TravelInsurance.com allows travelers to compare participating policies, prices and benefit limits side by side before purchasing. Review the policy documents, exclusions and coverage limits before deciding which plan fits your trip.

1967 Record by Iconic British Band Named the 'Classic Rock Album That Changed Music Forever'

Tue, 09/29/2026 - 4:16pm

Despite only being a band for just a decade, The Beatles managed to undeniably impact music history. For instance, Collider recently named the ’60s British band’s eighth album, 1967’s Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band as an extremely significant classic rock record.

The publication placed the 1967 record at the number one spot in a ranking of “The 10 Classic Rock Albums That Changed Music Forever.” According to Collider, Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, which features songs like “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds,” “A Day in the Life,” and “When I’m Sixty-Four,” is a remarkable album, full of imagination and extraordinary musicality.

Collider also included the albums Pet Sounds by The Beach Boys, The Dark Side of the Moon by Pink Floyd, and Led Zeppelin IV by Led Zeppelin in the ranking, published on September 29.

Paul McCartney Discussed the Making of ‘Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band’ in 1987

Former Beatles member Paul McCartney shared insight into making the Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band record in a 1987 interview, in celebration of the album’s 20th anniversary. He explained that he and his bandmates, Ringo Starr, the late John Lennon, and the late George Harrison, didn’t want to “make just another Beatles album,” but rather “something very different.”

According to McCartney, he came up with the idea for The Beatles to act as the fictional band, Sergeant Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, during the album’s production.

“Just so that every decision we made on the album would be taken by those people and not us. It was a liberating thing. So, we did it that way. So, the music turned out different. All the lyrics turned out different,” said McCartney, now 84, during the 1987 interview.

In addition, he said that listening to Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band felt like entering into “a little time warp,” as he, Harrison, Lennon, and Starr “never really made any music like that” after producing the record.

“It was just a one little thing in its own little time, you know. So, it just captures the times,” continued McCartney.

Carli Lloyd Welcomes Baby No. 2 With Husband Brian Hollins After Sharing Their IVF Journey

Tue, 09/29/2026 - 4:14pm

Former USWNT star Carli Lloyd is officially a mom of two!

Lloyd, 44, welcomed her second child with husband Brian Hollins, announcing the news in an Instagram post on Monday, Sept. 28.

The couple’s son, Hunter Jax, was born on Sept. 24 at 8:13 a.m., weighing 9 lbs, 3 oz. and measuring 20.5 inches long, according to People.

“Our hearts have never been fuller,” Lloyd wrote alongside photos of the newborn, welcoming her “sweet baby boy.”

Lloyd also revealed that it “wasn’t the easiest delivery” and thanked the doctors, nurses and others who cared for her. She shared that she and Hunter are doing well and are back home with Hollins and their daughter, Harper Anne, who turns 2 in October.

Lloyd first announced that baby No. 2 was on the way in April. The pregnancy reveal featured Harper wearing a pink “Big Sister” sweater while Lloyd and Hollins held ultrasound photos behind her.

“Our family is growing, and we couldn’t be more grateful!” Lloyd wrote at the time, revealing that their second child was due in September 2026. She also included “IVF journey” among the hashtags.

The announcement came after Lloyd had previously been candid about the fertility struggles she experienced while trying to become a mother for the first time.

Before becoming pregnant with Harper, Lloyd was diagnosed with unexplained infertility and underwent IVF, which she detailed in a personal essay for Women’s Health.

Her first two rounds of IVF were unsuccessful. A third round worked, resulting in Lloyd’s first pregnancy with Harper, who was born on Oct. 18, 2024.

Who Is Carli Lloyd’s Husband, Brian Hollins?

Hollins has been part of Lloyd’s life since long before she became a professional soccer player.

The pair met as teenagers in New Jersey and attended Delran High School together, according to People. Lloyd was a sophomore and Hollins was a junior when they began dating.

Like Lloyd, Hollins has an athletic background. He pursued professional golf and later became a golf instructor.

Their relationship continued as their careers took them in different directions, including years of long distance while Lloyd traveled for soccer.

After dating for years, Hollins proposed in January 2013. The couple married in Puerto Morelos, Mexico, in November 2016.

Lloyd has also been open about Hollins’ support throughout her soccer career and their fertility journey. In her Women’s Health essay, she shared how her husband supported her through the emotional ups and downs of IVF as they tried to become parents for the first time.

The couple welcomed Harper in October 2024, and Lloyd regularly shares glimpses of their life as parents on social media.

Now, Harper has officially been promoted to big sister. In Lloyd’s birth announcement for Hunter, the proud mom shared photos of the newborn with both Hollins and Harper as the family welcomed its newest member.

Walmart’s ‘Dreamy’ $20 Waterproof Lamp Turns Showers and Baths Into a ‘Relaxing’ Spa-Worthy Experience

Tue, 09/29/2026 - 4:00pm

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

One of the best things about coming home after a long day is hopping into the shower or bath and washing the day away. Whether you’re exhausted or stressed, it’s a great way to unwind and feel refreshed. If you want to make your showers and baths as relaxing as possible, the first step is to get rid of the overhead light and use a moody lamp instead. Of course, you can’t just take any lamp into the bathroom — you’ll need a waterproof one, like this Sentryse Shower Lamp at Walmart. 

There’s no better time than right now to snag this shower lamp because it’s currently on sale for less than $25! Normally retailing for $33, it’s now marked down to just $22. This lamp will get the ambiance just right in your bathroom. It has a two-in-one design, doubling as an ocean wave projector. You can also use it as a regular night light, truly giving you more bang for your buck. 

Sentryse Shower Lamp, $22 (was $33) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Completely waterproof, this lamp is designed to work even when it’s in the shower. It’s completely sealed and has a waterproof stopper covering the charging port. It can handle splashes, steam, and water jets, but cannot be fully submerged. You could place it on a shelf or on the rim of your bathtub to create the coziest experience. 

Featuring a mushroom-shaped frosted lampshade, this lamp has a touch of whimsy. The lampshade softens the light, filling the bathroom with a cozy glow. The base is fitted with a touch-control switch where you can adjust the light temperature between warm, natural, and cool depending on your preference. The brightness is also adjustable between six levels ranging from 10% to 100%. 

If you prefer to use the ocean wave projector, simply remove the lampshade. Underneath the frosted lampshade, this light boasts a transparent dome with ridges that create a water ripple effect. It’ll transform your bathroom into a tranquil oasis and give you a relaxing spa-like experience. This lamp comes with a remote control, allowing you to choose from 16 different colors. From multicolored options to solid hues, it’ll get the ambiance just right.

Shop More Spa-Worthy Deals 

For size reference, this lamp measures 12.6 inches tall. It’s incredibly convenient with its cordless and rechargeable design. Whenever it needs a charge, just plug in a USB-C cord. It takes five to six hours to fully charge and lasts for up to 15 hours, depending on which setting you use. 

Thanks to its portable and rechargeable design, this lamp can be used anywhere in your home. You can also use it in your bedroom as a nightlight, in the living room for movie nights, and even in the dining room for intimate dinners. This lamp will also come in handy during storm season. During power outages, you can use it to illuminate a room instead of holding a flashlight. 

Walmart shoppers loved everything about this lamp, from its gorgeous lighting effects to its versatility. “It’s so nice and pretty,” one reviewer raved. “I also use it as a night lamp, enjoying the dreamy lights at night!” A second customer described it as “really cool, beautiful, and very relaxing.” The same person also commented that “the colors look amazing in the bathroom” and it’s a “great value for the price.”

Related: Walmart’s ‘Beautiful’ Fireplace TV Stand Brings Cozy Cabin Vibes Right to Your Living Room

If you want to get the most out of your showers and baths, be sure to grab the Sentryse Shower Lamp at Walmart while it’s still on sale for just $22! 

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

The Love Boat Child Star You Remember Turns 60 Today and Fans May Be Surprised by What She's Doing Now

Tue, 09/29/2026 - 3:47pm

For children of the ’70s and ’80s, Jill Whelan felt like she was our own sibling or best friend. Before getting cast as Captain Stubing’s beloved daughter, Vicki Stubing, on The Love Boat, Whelan was a child actor who appeared in commercials before landing television roles. The ABC hit series ran from 1977 to 1986, and Whelan remained one of its familiar young faces for much of the show’s run.

On Sept. 29, Jill Whelan celebrates her 60th birthday. She’s all grown up now and starring in a production of Dear Evan Hansen that may have fans surprised by her beautiful singing voice.

View this post on Instagram

In a post shared to social media by another of TV’s most recognizable ’80s child actors, Glenn Scarpelli of One Day at a Time, the actor wrote:

“Please help me wish one of my lifelong BFFs [@officialjillwhelan] a very HAPPY BIG 6 OH!!! Jill, you finally caught up to me. What took you so long???? LOL!! I’ll always treasure the crazy amounts of laughs we’ve had over the years and the incredible experiences we’ve shared. A list too long for a post. Happy birthday, Sweetheart. Many more wonderful memories to come. I Love You!”

Jill Whelan Was Just 11 When She Joined The Love Boat

Whelan began performing as a child, appearing in commercials before landing the role of Vicki Stubing when she was just 11 years old. The Love Boat made her a household name, but the actress was also building an impressive résumé outside the series.

In 1980, she appeared in the comedy classic Airplane! as Lisa Davis, a young heart transplant patient.

Her childhood career actually began even earlier. At age 10, Whelan was cast in the national touring company of Annie as an orphan and understudy for Annie, but she had to turn down the opportunity after landing a starring role in the ABC series Friends.

Related: ‘Mad About You’ Star, 63, Praised by Fans for Aging Naturally: ‘Refreshing to See an Actress Without a Fake Face’

What Jill Whelan Did After The Love Boat

After The Love Boat ended, Whelan’s career took some unexpected turns. She moved to New York and worked as an event producer at Madison Square Garden before eventually moving into television production and radio.

She later returned to performing, including theater and cabaret work, while continuing to make appearances connected to her beloved television and film roles.

In 2025, Whelan appeared Off-Broadway in Lady Patriot, reuniting with her former Love Boat co-stars Ted Lange and Fred Grandy.

Jill Whelan Is Now Performing in Dear Evan Hansen View this post on Instagram

In August 2026, Whelan took on the role of Cynthia Murphy in Harbour Lights Theatre’s production of Dear Evan Hansen in Hingham, Massachusetts. The production brought together Broadway veterans and television performers for a limited run of the Tony Award-winning musical.

For longtime fans who remember Whelan primarily as Vicki Stubing, seeing her in a musical theater production offers a fun new chapter in her career.

And there’s another reason the role may surprise them: Whelan has a beautiful singing voice.

Her connection to musical theater actually dates back to childhood, when she performed in The King and I and was cast in the national touring company of Annie. Now, decades after she first became famous as a child actor, she’s getting another chance to showcase that side of her talent.

Jill Whelan’s Career Has Come Full Circle

Whelan became a professional actor at a time when many child stars struggled to establish careers after growing up. But she found her way back to the stage and screen while building an equally varied career in television, radio and production.

At 60, Whelan is still performing, still finding new ways to connect with audiences and, now, showing Love Boat fans a talent they may not have known she had.

Related: ‘A Different World’ Star, 63, Responds to Criticism That She Looks Older 35 Years Later: ‘The Internet Can Be Brutal’

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

Denny’s Is Bringing Back a Fan-Favorite Grilled Cheese With a Monstrous Twist

Tue, 09/29/2026 - 3:37pm

Denny’s is bringing back a 2010 fan-favorite menu item, but giving the cheesy sandwich a Halloween twist. Formerly known as the Fried Cheese Melt, the sandwich was made from four deep-fried mozzarella sticks and melted American cheese, sandwiched between two buttery, grilled slices of sourdough bread.

Served with a side of fries and some marinara sauce for dipping, Denny’s Fried Cheese Melt was loved by grilled cheese enthusiasts. In fact, it’s been a topic of discussion on Reddit, where some claim they can still get servers to make the sandwich for them if they ask (nicely) at certain locations. There are copycat recipes for the mozzarella-stick-grilled-cheese, and Denny’s said in a recent press release that the Fried Cheese Melt is an item that fans have long been asking them to “bring back from the dead.”

The Mozzilla Melt is made with fried mozzarella, American, and provolone cheeses, and served with wavy-cut fries.

Denny's

Just in time for spooky season, Denny’s is bringing the Fried Cheese Melt back, under a scarier name. The monstrous Mozzilla Melt is a nod to the original, with just a few updates. The new version of this grilled cheese sandwich, which will start haunting Denny’s menus in early October, is described as “a tribute to the original Fried Cheese Melt,” and guests can expect “a sourdough grilled cheese made with golden-fried mozzarella sticks and melted American and Provolone cheeses, served with tomato sauce for dipping and wavy-cut fries.”

The Mozzilla Melt hits participating Denny’s locations on Oct. 7 and will be on the menu throughout the Halloween season. But take heed, little monsters, the last day to get your claws on a Mozzilla Melt at Denny’s is Nov. 3, and sandwiches are only available while supplies last.

Stanley's Limited-Edition Día de Muertos Tumblers Are Almost Too Pretty to Drink From

Tue, 09/29/2026 - 3:30pm

Stanley 1913 just dropped a new collection inspired by one of the biggest autumn festivals and one of its hottest drops from last season.

Two weeks after the cult-favorite drinkware brand unveiled three new Halloween sets (one of which is Target-exclusive), it’s back with another big reveal: it’s launching a new Día de Muertos Collection as part of its continued partnership with Nest, a nonprofit that supports artisan businesses in over 120 countries.

The “Day of the Dead” holiday, which is celebrated annually on November 1 and 2, encourages joy-filled remembrance of deceased loved ones, with elaborately decorated altars featuring offerings of favorite foods and beverages, marigold flowers, and photographs. It inspired its first-ever Stanley drop last year, which sold out in just minutes, per the brand. While those exact designs aren’t coming back, the company did commission similar art for its current collection.

Stanley 1913 Debuts New Día de Muertos Drinkware Collection—Here’s Where to Find It

According to an official announcement shared in an email with Parade, this year’s series features two new colorways inspired by the Mexican folk-art tradition of Papel Picado (the craft of intricately cut-out paper designs) created by artist Guadalupe Hernandez.

Related: Stanley’s Brand-New One-of-a-Kind Collection of Tumblers Is Giving ‘Rustic Charm’ Vibes

Hernandez created the artwork specifically for this collection in two shimmery prints that weave stylish trends with tradition, and the result is almost too pretty to drink from, if we’re being honest.

  • Marigold Papel Picado: a rich orange inspired by the iconic, sacred flower of the holiday with colorful, warm accents
  • Salt Papel Picado: a nod to the tradition of salt at altars and a symbol of purification, featuring a classic black and white cutout pattern

The two colorways are offered in three popular Stanley lines: its 30-ounce Quencher ProTour ($45), 20-ounce Quencher ProTour ($40), and the 16-ounce Everyday Tumbler ($35).

Stanley 1913 Día de Muertos Drinkware Collection

Stanley 1913

And unlike some of its Halloween designs, the new Día de Muertos Collection isn’t exclusive to any one retailer, launching today on the official Stanley 1913 website, Amazon, and DICK’S Sporting Goods—nothing like treating yourself (or a loved one) to a new cup on National Coffee Day.

Next: This ‘Adorable’ New Winnie the Pooh-Themed Starbucks Tumbler Is Straight Out of a Storybook

A Cardiologist Says Eating This Lunch Once in a While Is 'Not the End of the World'—but He'd Never Order It

Tue, 09/29/2026 - 3:25pm

When lunchtime rolls around during a packed workday, finding a quick meal that hits the spot often takes priority over checking off nutritional boxes. Between back-to-back meetings, errands and sheer fatigue, convenience routinely wins the battle over meal prep. Fast-food drive-thrus offer an irresistible siren song of hot, savory comfort food that delivers instant satisfaction. Yet, beneath those convenient paper wrappers lies a heavy nutritional price tag that can compound over time.

Navigating heart-healthy eating isn’t always easy when conflicting diet advice saturates every corner of the internet. It can feel like every bite you take is being judged, leaving many people trapped in a stressful cycle of strict food rules followed by deep guilt after a single slip-up. However, top medical experts want you to take a deep breath. Caring for your cardiovascular health doesn’t require pristine perfection or a life completely devoid of flavor.

Your long-term health isn’t determined by a single indulgence on a random Tuesday afternoon. Instead, it’s shaped by the overarching daily habits you build over months and years. Recognizing which choices pose the highest risk to your cardiovascular system empowers you to make intentional decisions without anxiety. By viewing your diet through a lens of balance rather than absolute restriction, you can protect your heart while still enjoying life.

Understanding where that balance lies starts with examining the specific fast-food staples that pose the greatest challenge to your arteries, and why cardiologists treat them as rare exceptions rather than routine midday stops.

Related: Weighted Vests Are Everywhere—but a Cardiologist Says Some People Should Think Twice Before Using One

The Midday Staple One Top Cardiologist Won’t Touch

When evaluating fast-food menus for cardiovascular risks, one item consistently stands out for its concentrated mix of harmful fats and heavy sodium. Dr. Harlan Krumholz, MD, SM, a professor of cardiology at Yale School of Medicine, previously told Parade that a bacon double cheeseburger is the specific lunch he’d never order.

Combining stacked beef patties, crispy bacon, processed cheese and a refined white bun creates a heavy storm of saturated fat and sodium. Digesting these dense components places an immediate burden on your circulatory system. When eaten regularly, high saturated fat intake elevates LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels in the bloodstream, laying the structural groundwork for long-term arterial damage.

Related: Eating a High-Protein Diet May Have a Surprising Downside, Registered Dietitian Warns

As Dr. Krumholz explained, “Plaques are areas of a blood vessel that accumulate substances and can impede blood flow. These plaques can crack and cause blockages.”

He added that “plaques are like deposits in pipes that clog up your plumbing,” illustrating how consistent dietary strain directly damages vital blood vessels over time.

Furthermore, excessive sodium intake leads to acute fluid retention, driving up blood pressure levels and forcing the heart muscle to work significantly harder to pump blood through stiffened vessels.

Why Balance Beats Perfection for Long-Term Heart Health

Despite naming the bacon double cheeseburger as a meal he personally avoids, Dr. Krumholz offered a reassuring perspective for anyone who occasionally craves a fast-food splurge. He stressed that eating a meal like this once in a while is “not the end of the world,” emphasizing that heart health is rooted in long-term lifestyle patterns rather than rigid perfection.

Dr. Krumholz noted that “our lifestyles—including diet and activity—tend to put many people at risk,” yet he firmly maintained that cardiovascular disease remains largely preventable through steady, mindful choices. Denying yourself every single guilty pleasure often leads to food fatigue and eventual overindulgence, making moderate flexibility far more sustainable.

Related: An Oncologist Says Eating This 1 Breakfast Food Every Day Is a ‘Powerhouse’ for Cancer Prevention (Hint: It’s Not Eggs)

To build an actionable, heart-healthy routine without feeling deprived, consider these simple daily swaps:

  • Prioritize whole-food protein sources: Opt for grilled chicken, fish or plant-based proteins like lentils and beans to keep saturated fat intake low while supporting lean muscle mass.
  • Fill up on dietary fiber: Integrate leafy greens, berries, oats and whole grains into your daily meals. Soluble fiber acts like a sponge, binding to cholesterol in the digestive system and helping pull it out of the body before it reaches your bloodstream.
  • Incorporate healthy unsaturated fats: Swap out processed cheeses and heavy sauces for heart-healthy fats found in avocados, extra virgin olive oil, walnuts and chia seeds.
  • Focus on consistent movement: Pair a colorful, nutrient-dense diet with regular physical activity. Even a brisk 20-minute walk during your lunch break improves circulation and lowers blood pressure.

By focusing on nourishing your body most of the time, enjoying an occasional fast-food favorite becomes a harmless exception rather than a heart risk.

Adapted from Parade’s ‘”I’m a Cardiologist, and This Is the One Surprising Food I Would Never, Ever Eat for Lunch’” by Emily Shiffer

Up Next:

Source

Walmart’s 'Soft' $22 2-Piece Gingham Pajama Set Is Perfect for Cozy Fall Lounging

Tue, 09/29/2026 - 3:15pm

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

Gingham is having a major moment this fall. From coffee shop tables to cozy blankets, the checkered pattern is popping up everywhere from home decor and cosmetic cases to loungewear. It’s a print that feels both classic and playful, which makes even the simplest pieces look effortlessly charming. 

If you’re looking to join the gingham craze, Walmart’s UVN Gingham Cotton Two-Piece Pajama Set is an easy way to bring a bit of that trend home, no fuss required. Now on sale for $22, this set comes in seven colors — blue, gray, red, green, brown, navy, and black, and in sizes S to 3XL.

UVN Gingham Cotton Two-Piece Pajama Set, From $22 (was $43) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Featuring a long sleeve top and matching pants, this two-piece set combines comfort and style. It’s made of 100 percent cotton for a lightweight and cozy feel. The Henley-style top has a button-front neckline that allows for some adjustment and offers a loose silhouette, so you’ll have both comfort and enough room for movement.

The matching pants feature a flowy wide-leg cut and included pockets, which can be useful for carrying small items around the house. Not to mention, the set is machine-washable, and can be thrown in the dryer on a low-heat setting.

Related: Drew Barrymore’s Heavy-Duty 5-Piece Kitchen Tool Set Is Just $15 Ahead of Walmart’s Fall Deals Event

You can wear  it as a matching set, or pair the pieces with other loungewear or casual clothes. It’s the perfect set to reach for when you’re going to bed, relaxing at home, or reading a good book on the couch.

Shoppers say they’re  “the most comfortable jammies ever,” noting that they “absolutely love these” and “can’t wait to buy a couple more.”

“I love this set,” one shopper stated. “It is so soft and comfy.”

Shop More Deals

At under $22 during Walmart’s flash sale, this adorable PJ set is an affordable loungewear option rather than an investment piece. Grab yours in your favorite color now! 

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

These 4 Birth Months Always Seem to Know What's Coming Before Everyone Else

Tue, 09/29/2026 - 3:11pm

People born in the following four months have astrological qualities that make them more likely to know what the future holds before everyone else. Do you always seem to know what’s going to happen before anyone else does? Maybe you know when someone is pregnant before they do, what someone will say before you speak to them, or how someone will act the next time you see them. Knowing what will happen next is a unique psychic ability. You’re likely clairvoyant, clairsentient, clairaudient, or claircognizant. Each of these psychic abilities is known for receiving futuristic messages through visions, feelings, smells, or innate knowledge. Regardless of how it comes through, your psychic abilities and precognition are aligned with your birth month.

All birth months have a unique vibration thanks to being made up of two distinct zodiac signs. While all birth months have innate gifts and talents, there are only four birth months who have an uncanny intuition. These four birth months can easily peer into the future and see what eludes to everyone else. However, these four birth months also deal with the setback of the Cassandra Effect. Thankfully, everyone else eventually learns to trust these birth month’s precognition. Which four birth months always intuitively know something before anyone else does? Read on to find out.

Which Birth Months Always Know Something Before Anyone Else?

Check for the month you were born for pro insights.

February

Individuals with February birthdays have an uncanny intuition. They can thank being co-ruled by Aquarius and Pisces for their psychic abilities. Aquarius lends the ability to peer into the future. This revolutionary air sign is known for being innovative and forward thinking, so February-born are visionaries. However, this isn’t all thanks to Aquarius. Pisces also provides intuitive downloads, since this water sign represents spirituality. February is known to receive special, hidden information through signs, omens, dreams and more due to Pisces’ influence. Altogether, the mix of water and air give February the advantage of knowing what happens before anyone else does. The catch is that February has to trust their own divine knowledge.

June

June is uniquely intuitive, since this birth month is influenced by Mercurial Gemini and lunar Cancer. This birth month’s foresight initially comes through Gemini’s influence. This Mercury-ruled sign is known for seeking out information. Gemini encourages all June-born to ask questions, do their homework, and get answers. A seemingly simple curiosity can turn into a full-blown intuitive download. Luckily, June knows where to look, what to ask, and who to talk to thanks to Cancer’s lunar presence. Being co-ruled by the moon means having a clear intuitive channel. As long as June trusts their wits and heart, they will always find something out before anyone else does. 

September

People with September birthdays are no stranger to the Cassandra Effect. September is home to perceptive Virgo and social Libra, so this birth month always knows who someone is long before they reveal their true colors. September’s eye for detail and precision comes from their Virgoan energy. This birth month picks up on tiny nuances, underlying energies, and more just by paying rapt attention. Libra also provides immense social awareness, so September knows how to conduct themselves to gain others’ trust. Thanks to both Virgo’s and Libra’s attributes, September has an astonishing read on people. However, September will probably call something out long before it happens, so they have to be patient for others to see what they see.

October

October always knows what’s what before everyone else does. Similar to those born in September, this birth month also shares Libra’s social awareness and depth. October can make conversation with anyone, so they have a unique ability to weed out others’ true personalities and intentions. Luckily, this comes naturally to October because they’re also guided by intuitive Scorpio. This water sign is known for being deeply psychic. Scorpio is often associated with psychology and taboos, so Scorpio always knows what’s simmering below the surface. Given these cosmic influences, there’s no doubt that October has an intuitive grasp on what someone will do or how they’ll act long before it happens.

UP NEXT:

1987 Coming-of-Age Sitcom, Created as a Spin-Off, Ranked Among 'Best '90s TV Shows'

Tue, 09/29/2026 - 3:07pm

With the renewed hype around A Different World thanks to Netflix’s revival series, it’s only right that we look back on the original classic coming-of-age sitcom that first introduced us to iconic characters Whitley Gilbert (Jasmine Guy) and Dwayne Wayne (Kadeem Hardison), and, of course, the rest of the Hillman gang.

Created by Bill Cosby as a spin-off of The Cosby Show, A Different World first premiered on NBC in 1987. The popular coming-of-age sitcom centers around a group of young adults navigating life and relationships while attending the HBCU (Historically Black College or University) Hillman College.

It aired for six seasons from 1987 to 1993, and was ranked among the 100 best ’90s TV shows by Rotten Tomatoes. Earning several awards throughout its run, including five BMI Film & TV Awards, 12 NAACP Awards, and the People’s Choice Award for Favorite New TV Comedy Program in 1988, the show became a timeless and poignant depiction of Black college culture on mainstream television during the late ’80s and early ’90s.

Meanwhile, the Netflix sequel series of the same name focuses on a new generation at Hillman, where Deborah Wayne (Maleah Joi Moon), Whitley and Dwayne’s daughter, begins her freshman year at her parents’ alma mater. It also features Cornell Young IV, Kennedi Reece, Jordan Aaron Hall, and Chibuikem Uche, while original cast members Hardison, Guy, Cree Summer (Winifred “Freddie” Brooks), and Darryl M. Bell (Ron Johnson, Jr.) reprise their beloved roles.

Both shows are currently available for streaming on Netflix.

Other shows that made the Rotten Tomatoes list include Power Rangers, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Rocko, Doug, Walker, Texas Ranger, Kenan & Kel, 7th Heaven, Sabrina the Teenage Witch, Hangin’ With Mr. Cooper, Mr. Bean, The Nanny, Martin, Full House, Saved by the Bell, and more iconic titles that made ’90s TV programming simply unforgettable.

Next, 1974 No. 1 Hit, Recorded in Chicago, Is Still a Pop Culture Staple 52 Years Later

Costco Just Put 4 SPAM Flavors Together in One Limited-Time Variety Pack

Tue, 09/29/2026 - 3:01pm

If you’ve ever stood in a grocery store aisle trying to decide which SPAM variety to buy, we’ve got great news for you. There’s a new Costco-exclusive product that gives SPAM fans four varieties of the iconic product, all in one box.

A limited-edition SPAM Variety Pack is available at Costco now, and it’s packed with eight cans of the classic comfort food, split over four varieties. Inside each SPAM Variety Pack are two cans each of the following SPAM varieties: SPAM Teriyaki, SPAM Hickory Smoke, SPAM with Real Hormel Bacon, and SPAM Gochujang.

This means whether you’re in the mood for SPAM Gochujang ramen or bacon-wrapped SPAM bites, you’ll have the right type of SPAM on hand to make your canned meat dreams come true. But, the Variety Pack is only sold at Costco, and will only be available for a limited time, while supplies last.

In a Facebook post about the limited-edition offering, SPAM wrote, “Just imagine, you can fry up a different SPAM variety each day of the week and have a can left over! Grab a limited edition SPAM Variety Pack at your nearest Costco.”

Fans were quick to comment with their excitement about the release. “Now we’re talking,” said one commenter. Another chimed in, “The spice of life… pun intended!”

And, you don’t necessarily have to head to your closest Costco warehouse to get your hands on a SPAM Variety Pack. The product will also be available for online order at Costco.com or for delivery via Instacart (for Costco members).

Christopher Schwarzenegger Shows Off Major Weight Loss During Sunny Outing With Mom Maria Shriver

Tue, 09/29/2026 - 3:01pm

Christopher Schwarzenegger, the son of Maria Shriver and Arnold Schwarzenegger, is looking very svelte on the beach in a new photo for National Sons Day.

Christopher, 29, is looking fit as a fiddle in new photos shared by his mother as the two soak up the sun on the beach alongside his White Lotus star brother, Patrick Schwarzenegger. After kicking off his weight loss journey in 2019, the youngest son of Arnold and Maria is looking happy and healthy.

Check out the photos below, in which Shriver honors her boys as they stand in the surf on a tropical getaway.

“We can’t celebrate the girls without celebrating the boys! On this National Sons Day, I am so lucky to have two amazing sons who are kind, caring, loving, tender, and strong. They are smart and silly, and they always make me laugh. They always go the extra mile. They always make me feel truly honored to be their mother!” Shriver captioned the photo, noting that she “gives thanks every day I get to be your mother and have a front-row seat to your amazing lives. I celebrate you both today and every day — who you are and how you make others feel. What a gift to be your mom! #nationalsonsday.”

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 🎬 

Schwarzenegger Realized He Couldn’t Go Skydiving

Axelle/Bauer-Griffin / Getty Images

A big wake-up call for Schwarzenegger was when he discovered he was too big to go skydiving. His friends made it clear he probably wouldn’t meet the cutoff weight to be approved, and he was deeply disappointed.

“I was like, ‘I want to go skydiving.’ And my friends were like, ‘Yeah, no shot.’ I was like, ‘Yeah, I can’t skydive,’ ” Christopher told PEOPLE.

What Does Christopher Schwarzenegger do For a Living?

Schwarzenegger is the Director of Development at Indus Valley Media, a Los Angeles-based production company servicing the global film and television marketplace, according to his page on the Special Olympics website. (The Special Olympics were founded by Eunice Kennedy Shriver, who was Maria’s mother.) A graduate of the University of Michigan with a degree in psychology, Schwarzenegger also has a long history of working on some of the most popular sports podcasts in the world, according to the page. That’s not too surprising, considering his father’s bodybuilding history!

Related: Arnold Schwarzenegger and Maria Shriver Reunite Years After Divorce—and They Look Happier Than Ever

Disney Child Star Christy Carlson Romano Looks Back on ‘Painful Childhoods’ With Shia LaBeouf in Rare Throwback

Tue, 09/29/2026 - 2:59pm

Christy Carlson Romano is looking back at her Even Stevens days and sharing the reality with fans.

The former Disney Channel star shared an old photo of herself with costar Shia LaBeouf and his father, Jeffrey LaBeouf, on Instagram on Tuesday, September 29. In the throwback, Romano wears a Snow White costume while Shia poses in a white tank top and jeans. His father stands beside him in a blue shirt, hat and sunglasses.

Romano’s caption shed some light on what was really going on during that time. “Shia and I spent 3 years of our lives right next to each other in adjoining trailers, both of us enduring painful childhoods,” she wrote. “If only we could have been there for each other, but we were each going through our own battles and could barely take care of ourselves.”

View this post on Instagram

Fans were quick to comment on the post, letting the actress know how much of an important role Even Stevens played in their childhoods.

“I still watch Even Stevens now at 38 years old and will always be one of my comfort shows,” one shared.

“you guys took on a lot just to entertain us…but you were entertaining kids that were going through similar things at home ✨ thank you for laughs when there should have been tears,” another replied.

READ MORE: Shia LaBeouf Flees Courthouse Media After $100K Bond Set

A third said, “sometimes one does not know, because we do not walk in their shoes but to fully understand we should check on the ones with the worn out pair.”

“Your show helped distract me from a very painful childhood. It will always be my favorite🥺🙏,” a fourth commented.

Christy Carlson Romano is opening up about her childhood

Romano, who played Ren Stevens opposite LaBeouf’s Louis from 2000 to 2003, is preparing to tell more of her story in her memoir, Once Upon a Trainwreck: The Fall and Rise of a Child Star, which will be out Oct. 6.

The book explores what growing up in show business cost Romano, who was only 16 while simultaneously starring in Even Stevens, voicing Kim Possible and becoming one of Disney Channel’s most recognizable faces. “It might anger some people, but I don’t care anymore,” Romano wrote of the memoir in her caption. “If my story can help just one person, it will have been worth it.”

LaBeouf has also spoken publicly about his difficult childhood and complicated relationship with his father, experiences he later explored in the 2019 film Honey Boy.

But more recently, the actor has faced legal trouble. LaBeouf pleaded guilty in June to three misdemeanor counts of simple battery stemming from a February altercation in New Orleans. He received two years of probation and was ordered to complete alcohol-abuse rehabilitation, sensitivity training and anger-management classes.

Related: Shia LaBeouf Seen in Heated PDA Moment Following Recent Arrest

Taylor Swift Fans May Have Spotted an Unexpected NFL Star in Her New Music Video for 'Patient Zero'

Tue, 09/29/2026 - 2:57pm

Taylor Swift’s new music video for “Patient Zero” is packed with surprises, including an unexpected appearance from one of the NFL’s biggest stars.

Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford made a surprise cameo in the pop superstar’s latest video, and he’s now opening up about what it was like stepping onto the set for the star-studded production.

🚨 | LA Rams Quarterback Matthew Stafford makes a cameo in the Patient Zero music video. pic.twitter.com/RzivHcRN7b

— The Swift Times (@TimesSwift) September 28, 2026

The 38-year-old athlete discussed the experience during the Monday, September 28, episode of SiriusXM’s “Let’s Go!” podcast, revealing that getting involved in Swift’s project was “a cool experience.”

The quarterback also shared that his connection to Swift helped make the unexpected collaboration possible. The singer has developed a relationship with Stafford’s wife, Kelly, and their four daughters, Sawyer, Chandler, Hunter and Tyler, who he admitted are big Swifties.

“She’s been amazing to get to know, and obviously amazing to my wife and my girls,” Stafford said on the podcast. “It was kind of that connection that got me involved and some of my buddies. So, it was a really cool experience.”

The dad of four said he was able to bring his daughters on set.

“I know my girls will never forget being there, seeing all that on set, which was cool,” he said.

The NFL star was particularly impressed by the many roles the Grammy winner took on behind the scenes, describing how she was involved in nearly every aspect of the production.

“My girls were there on the set, got to see how all that was done and how she kind of carries herself, which is unbelievable,” he shared. “She was directing, producing, editing, running the show, obviously the lead singer. It’s a pretty impressive thing, and I was really happy to be a part of it.”

Related: Matthew and Kelly Stafford Surprised One Young Fan. What Her Teacher Said Next Is Going Viral

Since 2001, 714 retired New York City subway cars have been sunk off Delaware's coast to seed an artificial reef; within seven years the marine food per square foot there had increased 400 times

Tue, 09/29/2026 - 2:44pm

Since 2001, Delaware has been sinking retired New York City subway cars into the Atlantic Ocean on purpose. It’s turned into one of the state’s most successful reef-building projects ever.

The subway cars in question were retired “Redbird” cars, a fleet the MTA had been running since the 1960s and needed to get rid of as newer trains came online. Rather than scrap them, the transit agency struck a deal to hand them over to states willing to sink them offshore as artificial reef material, according to a Scientific American report on the program. The MTA reportedly saved somewhere between $11 million and $13 million in disposal costs by going this route instead of scrapping the cars conventionally.

Before any car went into the water, crews stripped out anything that could pose a hazard or float away, including seats, light fixtures, ad banners, lead paint, doors and windows — that last part specifically so divers wouldn’t get trapped inside a sunken car.

Delaware took to the idea more than most. Some 714 of the stripped-down cars were deployed off Slaughter Beach, about 16 miles offshore, forming what’s now known as Redbird Reef. The state kept the program going for years afterward, eventually placing more than 1,300 cars total across several of its reef sites before the supply of old subway cars finally ran out, according to Delaware public radio station WHYY.

Jeff Tinsman, the artificial reef program manager at the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control, was the one who tracked just how well it worked. Within about seven years, he found that the reef supported dramatically more marine life than the surrounding seafloor. “When you compare the amount of food available on this reef to the natural amount, there is 400 times as much food per square foot as the sand bottom,” Tinsman said, in comments carried by the Las Vegas Review-Journal.

The reason, according to Tinsman, comes down to structure. “They are still three dimensional, and provide thousands and thousands of square feet of hard surface for invertebrates to live on,” he said. Mussels, oysters and other filter feeders latch onto the steel car frames, and the fish that eat them follow. “Fish such as black seabass are not fast swimmers, so need structure to provide both food and shelter,” Tinsman added.

View this post on Instagram

The program wasn’t without controversy elsewhere. When New Jersey initially signed on to take hundreds of the same subway cars, it later backed out after learning the cars contained asbestos, with environmental group Clean Ocean Action warning about the health risks of inhaling stray fibers. An EPA regional oceanographer at the time pushed back on the concern, saying any exposure risk in the water would be far too small to meaningfully affect marine life. Delaware’s program continued regardless.

More than two decades later, the steel car frames are still down there, doing a job they were never built for. However, that’s not always how these stories go. When Florida fishermen tried something similar with old tires back in 1972, the results went the opposite direction, scattering across the seafloor and damaging real reefs instead of building new ones. Subway cars, it turns out, make far better neighbors for marine life than loose tires ever did.

Molly Shannon’s Stunning Redhead Daughter Stella Chesnut Turns 23—See Her Mom’s Sweet Birthday Tribute

Tue, 09/29/2026 - 2:42pm

Molly Shannon is wishing a happy birthday to her stunning redheaded daughter, Stella Chesnut, who is following in her mom’s footsteps.

Shannon, 62, currently stars with Will Ferrell in Netflix’s The Hawk. However, her comedy skills go back decades. She first found fame on Saturday Night Live and parlayed her sketch comedy skills into a film career with projects like A Night at the Roxbury and Superstar, in which she played her legendary character, Catholic schoolgirl Mary Katherine Gallagher. In recent years, Shannon has continued her reign, leaving her mark on HBO’s The White Lotus. Now, her beautiful daughter Stella, 23, is rising to stardom, and she is taking everything her mom taught her with her.

In a new photo set posted to Instagram, Shannon wished Stella a happy birthday with a stunning shot of the redheaded beauty smiling for the camera. In the second photo, a throwback pic shows Stella as a little girl under the umbrella. No matter what age she is, her long, red curls are as stylish as can be.

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 🎬 

Stella Chesnut Has a Rising Acting Career

Shannon recently shared with E! News‘ Will Marfuggi that Chesnut is already working as an actress.

“My daughter Stella just graduated from NYU drama school,” Molly shared in July. “She got her BFA in acting, so she’s already working.” 

 Chesnut recently appeared in a season two episode of Goosebumps: The Vanishing.

With her father, Fritz Chesnut, Stella celebrated her mom this past summer as she received her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. She may be a redhead, but we can see a bit of Molly in her!

Emma McIntyre / Getty Images

Molly Shannon Also Has a Son, Nolan

Stella may be gunning for a career in the spotlight, but Shannon’s son, Nolan Shannon Chesnut, isn’t interested in pursuing his mother’s career.

“My son doesn’t want to be an actor, but he’s an amazing surfer. He is so talented,” Molly continued in the E! News interview. “So he doesn’t want to go into show business, but Stella does.”

Related: Molly Shannon Shares a Heartwarming Memory of Chris Farley’s ‘SNL’ Pre-Show Tradition

Who Won 'Jeopardy' Today? (September 29, 2026) Plus, the Final Jeopardy Answer

Tue, 09/29/2026 - 2:35pm

There are three things guaranteed in the world today: Death, taxes, and Jeopardy! being on. Believe it or not, the iconic game show has been on the air for over 60 years (though the modern incarnation we know and love technically debuted in 1984). Under the watchful eye of Ken Jennings (who himself was a record-breaking champion), Jeopardy! puts three people’s trivia skills and reflexes to the ultimate test. And so many of the greats to grace those podiums started by simply watching the show as it aired on weekdays, as millions have done for over half a century.

Here’s a spoiler-filled recap of who won Jeopardy! today, plus the answer to Final Jeopardy.

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

Who won Jeopardy today? Justin Robbins

Justin Robbins won his second consecutive game, earning $18,801 and pushing his 2-day running total to $38,802.

Who are the Jeopardy contestants today? Dominic Lloyd

Dominic Lloyd is a finance consultant from New Orleans, Louisiana.

Jareesa Tucker McClure

Jareesa Tucker McClure is an entrepreneur and program manager from Atlanta, Georgia.

Justin Robbins

Justin Robbins is a graduate student from Murrells Inlet, South Carolina.

Related: Sam Heughan Surprises ‘Jeopardy!’ Fans With an ‘Outlander’ Category – Can You Answer the Clues?

What was Final Jeopardy today?

Final Jeopardy today was in the category “PRE-CIVIL WAR AMERICA“

The clue: “In charge of the U.S. Capitol’s construction, in 1856 this Secretary of War vetoed an emancipation symbol atop the dome.”

The answer: “Who is Jefferson Davis?”

Robbins was in the lead at the end of the DJ round with $14,000, as Lloyd came in second with $9,400 and McClure followed with $5,000.

Only Robbins answered the FJ question correctly, adding a wager of $4,801 for a daily total of $38,802 as a 2-day champ. Lloyd wagered everything, dropping to $0 and a third-place spot, while McClure wagered $3,000, got it wrong, and ended in second place with $2,000. 

Robbins will be back on Wednesday for attempt number 3.

Did you get the answer? Sound off in the comments!

When is Jeopardy on next?

Jeopardy! will come back on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, with a new episode. Check your local listings to find out when to watch.

Where is Jeopardy streaming?

Jeopardy! is available on both Hulu and Peacock. Subscribers can enjoy watching new episodes the next day, as well as access a vault of many classic episodes to enjoy at a moment’s notice.

Related: Ken Jennings Reveals If ‘Celebrity Jeopardy!’ Questions Are Easier

Elizabeth Taylor’s Curried Chicken Salad Is a Retro Recipe Worth Trying

Tue, 09/29/2026 - 2:33pm

Elizabeth Taylor remains one of Hollywood’s most enduring icons, celebrated not only for her unmistakable beauty and dramatic screen presence, but also for the remarkable life she led away from the camera. Born in London to American parents, Taylor relocated to California with her family as World War II began and soon entered the film industry as a child performer. Her role in National Velvet helped make her a star, and she later became one of the highest-paid and most recognizable actresses of the 1950s and 1960s. Over her career, she earned two Academy Awards and built a legacy that extended far beyond movies through her pioneering advocacy for people living with HIV/AIDS.

Despite her glamorous reputation, Taylor also enjoyed approachable, everyday foods. One recipe associated with her is a refreshing chicken salad that takes a more unexpected direction than the classic deli version you may be used to. In Taylor’s version, tender chicken is mixed with crisp apple and celery, then coated in a creamy curry mayonnaise brightened with citrus and a touch of apricot jam. Optional ripe mango brings even more sweetness to the dish.

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

It’s simple enough for a quick lunch, yet the mix of savory, sweet, tangy and gently spiced flavors makes it feel distinctive. For anyone looking to try a vintage-inspired recipe with personality, this chicken salad is a delicious place to start. Here’s what I thought when I made Elizabeth Taylor’s curried chicken salad recipe myself, plus the simple way I’d improve it.

Ingredients for Elizabeth Taylor’s Curried Chicken Salad

Courtesy Choya Johnson

For this light, curry-spiced chicken salad recipe, you’ll need 8 ounces of mayonnaise, 2 teaspoons of curry powder, 1 teaspoon of apricot jam, and the juice from half a lemon or lime to make the creamy dressing. Additionally, you’ll need 6 ounces of chicken breast, half a green apple and 2 ribs of celery.

How to Make Elizabeth Taylor’s Curried Chicken Salad

Courtesy Choya Johnson

Start by making the curried mayonnaise: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, curry powder, apricot jam, and lemon or lime juice. Stir until the mixture is smooth and the seasonings are evenly incorporated.

Next, broil the chicken breast until it’s fully cooked, then let it cool slightly before cutting it into thin strips or bite-size pieces. Add the chicken to a medium bowl along with the chunked green apple and chopped celery. Spoon in about 1½ tablespoons of the curried mayonnaise, or enough to lightly coat the mixture without making the salad overly creamy. Toss everything together until well combined.

Serve immediately, or chill before serving, and top the chicken salad with sliced mango if you want a fruity garnish.

Related: Desi Arnaz’s Paprika Steak Recipe Is the Epitome of Old-School Comfort Food

What I Thought of Elizabeth Taylor’s Curried Chicken Salad

Courtesy Choya Johnson

I’ll admit, I was a little hesitant to try this recipe at first because curry powder, apricot jam and apple are not ingredients I typically associate with chicken salad. I was especially curious to find out whether the sweet, tangy and savory elements would work well together, or if they would make the dish taste too unusual.

After giving it a try with a few classic Ritz crackers, though, I was pleasantly surprised. The flavors came together much better than I expected, creating a creamy chicken salad with a subtle sweetness, gentle curry flavor, and satisfying crunch from the apple and celery. The texture was well balanced, and each ingredient added something different without overpowering the others.

I also did not season the chicken separately, yet the curried mayonnaise mixture provided enough flavor that the chicken didn’t taste bland. Between the mayonnaise, citrus, apricot jam and curry powder, the dressing did most of the work and gave the entire salad a flavorful finish.

1 Tip for Making Elizabeth Taylor’s Curried Chicken Salad

Courtesy Choya Johnson

1. Sear the chicken breast for fuller flavor.

In my opinion, searing the chicken breast added extra flavor and a more satisfying texture to the salad. The golden-brown exterior also made the finished dish look more visually appealing.

Courtesy Choya Johnson

Final Thoughts

I would definitely make this dish again, although I would make a few small adjustments to the ingredients and how I prepare the chicken. I went into it feeling a little unsure because the flavor combination sounded different from a typical chicken salad, but I wasn’t disappointed.

In reality, it turned out to be one of those recipes that exceeds your expectations. The ingredients may seem unusual at first, but they come together in a surprisingly delicious way.

Related: This Sleek Kitchen Essential Will Make Everyday Meal Prep Feel Like a Gourmet Meal

1970 Song, Co-Written by Eric Clapton, Was Just Named the 'Best Classic Rock One-Hit Wonder'

Tue, 09/29/2026 - 2:30pm

Typically, one-hit wonders are pop songs repeatedly blasted on the Top 40 Radio for a year or so before becoming culturally irrelevant and largely forgotten. However, some one-hit wonders are released by rock bands, as evidenced by Collider‘s recent ranking of “The 10 Best Classic Rock One-Hit Wonders.”

The list, published on September 29, included classic rock songs like 1972’s “Dancing in the Moonlight” by King Harvest, “Come On Eileen” by Dexys Midnight Runners from 1982, and “Because the Night” by Patti Smith Group, released in 1978. Collider named the Jim Gordon and Eric Clapton-penned track “Layla,” off Derek and the Dominos‘ record Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs, the “best classic rock one-hit wonder.”

According to Collider, while “Layla” is a beloved classic rock tune, Derek and the Dominos didn’t put out another record after Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs, their first and only album. As fans are aware, Derek and the Dominos split in 1971, just a year after the band was formed.

Pattie Boyd Revealed How She Felt About ‘Layla’ in Her 2007 Book

The romantic track, released in 1970, was inspired by Clapton’s eventual wife, model Pattie Boyd. However, Boyd was married to Clapton’s friend, George Harrison, for 11 years until 1977. Songfacts reported that Boyd, who wed Clapton in 1979, revealed her opinion about “Layla” while penning her memoir, Wonderful Tonight: George Harrison, Eric Clapton, and Me, published in 2007.

Boyd wrote that Clapton had her listen to the track during a secret meeting “at a flat in South Kensington.”

“He switched on the tape machine, turned up the volume and played me the most powerful, moving song I had ever heard. It was ‘Layla,’ about a man who falls hopelessly in love with a woman who loves him but is unavailable. He played it to me two or three times, all the while watching my face intently for my reaction. My first thought was: ‘Oh God, everyone’s going to know this is about me,'” stated Boyd in Wonderful Tonight: George Harrison, Eric Clapton, and Me, as reported by Songfacts.

She went on to say that while she “was married to Eric’s close friend, George Harrison,” Clapton “had been making his desire for [her] clear for months.”

“I felt uncomfortable that he was pushing me in a direction in which I wasn’t certain I wanted to go. But with the realization that I had inspired such passion and creativity, the song got the better of me. I could resist no longer,” wrote Boyd, who finalized her divorce from Clapton in 1989.

Pages

New Haven Independent News

405 Charles Cook Plaza

New Haven, MO 63068

(573) 237-5600

nhnews2017@gmail.com