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Fall might only just be getting started, but Starbucks is giving fans plenty of exciting treats to look forward to as the season gets underway.

According to the beloved coffee chain, Starbucks is rolling out a brand-new coffee in nationwide stores in the form of the delicious-sounding Aerocano.

Featuring Starbucks’ Blonde Espresso whipped and a lighter whipped foam, the drink is “a modern take on the Iced Americano, arriving just in time for National Coffee Day.”

But that’s not all fans can look forward to. Along with the new Aerocano, Starbucks also confirmed the release of several new dessert options in their fall lineup, including:

• Apple Crumble Mini Pie: “layered with tender apples and a buttery streusel topping.”
• Pecan Mini Pie: featuring “a buttery pecan filling with toasted nutty notes and caramelized sweetness.” 
• Pumpkin Mini Pie: featuring “a creamy pumpkin filling infused with gentle fall spices.”

But wait! There’s more!

According to the popular food blogging account Snackwire, Starbucks is also rolling out two new drinks and another memorable dessert available this fall season.

This includes the Caramel Aerocano, which adds a swirl of caramel to the regular Aerocano for some added sweetness, as well as the eye-catching Black Cat Frappucino.

With the latter, fans are entreated to a chocolate cake-flavored Creme Frappuccino, topped off with a generous swirl of whipped cream and chocolate cat ears.

Arriving later in the fall, fans can also get their hands on Starbucks’ new Venti Black Night Cookie. Debuting on October 22, the large cookie has an even mix of caramel fudge pieces and caramelized white chocolate, making it an ideal treat to enjoy with a cool glass of milk (or equally refreshing Pumpkin Spice Latte).

As expected, many of the reactions from fans online have been nothing short of positive.

“The pies are delicious!” commented one user on Instagram.

“Those baked goods,” added another, complete with a drooling face emoji.

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With fall here to stay, there’s still plenty of time to enjoy an outdoor space before temperatures drop, and patio furniture is also a smarter buy this time of year. With retailers clearing out seasonal furniture for Halloween and Christmas, September is a good time to upgrade a porch, patio, balcony, or backyard without paying peak-season prices. 

For anyone who has been putting off creating a comfortable outdoor setup, Walmart’s Asofer Outdoor Conversation Patio Set is a great buy, and it’s over 50% off. Now, priced at $170 (down from $370), it’s an affordable way to add seating to a porch, balcony, or small patio. It’s simple, yet elegant eight-piece design makes it a practical buy for anyone putting off furnishing a smaller outdoor space.

Asofer 8-Piece Outdoor Conversation Patio Set, From $170 (was $370) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

This eight-piece patio set comes with virtually everything you’ll need to transform your patio or porch into a cozy oasis. Complete with four rocking chairs, a coffee table, and a loveseat, the set can seat up to four people comfortably. Each of the furniture pieces have steel frames and black Textilene mesh, meaning they’re relatively easy to upkeep. Plus, the set’s compact size makes it perfect for smaller outdoor spaces. The coffee table measures 29.5 inches long and 15.7 inches wide, the loveseat is 54 inches long and 23.4 inches wide, and each chair measures in at 30 inches high and 22 inches wide.

We particularly love that the minimalist design blends into several different styles, and that the compact table offers enough room for a drink, book, or snack while you relax.

Related: Clarks’ Canvas Sneakers Are ‘Very Cute’ With ‘Great Arch Support,’ Now 35% Off

A current bestseller on Walmart, shoppers note the set is “beautiful, sturdy, and well worth the price!” Another echoed that it’s “sturdy and durable,” and “looks expensive.” They also noted that it “will stand up to the test of wind and rain,” which is a major plus.

The furniture is also relatively comfortable to maintain and keep clean. You can wipe down the surfaces, and assembly doesn’t require specialized tools. Its compact footprint makes it especially useful in limited spaces, and the lightweight construction means you can move the pieces as needed or store them when the weather turns. With a variety of colors and setups, this set can be customized for your backyard (and comfort) needs. 

Shop More Deals

• Way To Celebrate Light-Up Pumpkin Decoration, $6 at Walmart
• Virtu 7-Piece Seersucker Queen Comforter Set, from $40 (was $52) at Walmart
• Asofer Cotton 3-Level Adjustable Backrest Sleeper Sofa, $160 (was $251) at Walmart

For anyone working with a small footprint or a modest furniture budget, this now $170 Asofer eight-piece patio set from Walmart offers a simple way to make an otherwise underused outdoor area more functional.

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Lindsay Clancy appeared in Plymouth Superior Court in Massachusetts on Tuesday, Sept. 29, and she spoke for the first time since her murder trial ended in a mistrial.

At the beginning of the hearing, Judge William Sullivan greeted the room, to which Clancy responded, “Good Morning.”

She is charged with murdering her three children in 2023, but has pleaded not guilty, saying that she was experiencing postpartum psychosis at the time. After killing her three children, Cora, 5, Dawson, 3, and 8-month-old Callan, Clancy attempted to kill herself by jumping out of a second-story window. She survived the fall, but is paralyzed from the waist down.

The five-week trial ended on Sept. 4, with it ending in a mistrial as the jury could not reach a unanimous verdict after deliberating for seven days. Clancy’s attorney, Kevin Reddington, filed a motion that she should not have to go through a second trial due to double jeopardy. He also argued in court on Tuesday that the judge should acquit Clancy because prosecutors didn’t present enough evidence to prove she was criminally responsible.

Holdout Juror Appears In Video For First Time Since Mistrial

The holdout juror in Clancy’s case has spoken out for the first time. In a video shared on Fox News’ Hannity on Monday, Sept. 28, he explained that the focus should be on the children who died rather than his decision to not agree with the other jurors in finding Clancy not guilty by reason of insanity.

“I know the whole focus has been on me, but we want to reel everything back and put the focus on the three angels,” he said. “The ones that can’t speak for themselves, the ones that can’t defend themselves, and the ones that can’t fight the battles — and those are Cora, Dawson and Callan.”

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health challenges, emotional distress, substance use problems, or just needs to talk, call or text 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org 24/7.

Harold Jenkins was named after a silent film actor. His dad was a ferryboat captain who played gospel music at home. Before Harold was even a teenager, he was already performing on the radio in Helena, Arkansas. The Philadelphia Phillies came looking for him as a baseball player. He turned them down because he’d heard Elvis Presley and decided that was the life he wanted. He drove to Sun Records in Memphis — the same place that’d just launched Elvis — and asked to get signed. They said no. He didn’t stop. He kept going. By 1958, he’d recorded “It’s Only Make Believe” — his drummer Jack Nance wrote most of it during a break between sets at the Flamingo Lounge in Hamilton, Ontario, with Harold finishing the lyrics — and it went to No. 1 in the United States and 21 other countries and sold four million copies. His name was still Harold Jenkins.

He knew Harold Jenkins wasn’t the right name for where he was headed. He needed something that’d make a disc jockey stop when they were flipping through 50 or 60 new records every week. “In desperation,” he told The David Letterman Show in 1989, “I just got the map down and looked around the Memphis area.” He found two towns — Conway, Arkansas, and Twitty, Texas — and put them together. Harold Jenkins became Conway Twitty.

Then he did something that looked like the worst idea he’d ever had. He walked away from his rock career at its peak to sing country music. Nashville didn’t want him. Country radio stations refused to play his records because they already knew him as a rock singer. He’d been turned away at Sun Records as Harold Jenkins, and now country radio was shutting the door on Conway Twitty. He kept going anyway. In 1968, he got his first country No. 1 with “Next in Line,” and he didn’t stop there either.

Related: 1974 Dolly Parton’s ‘I Will Always Love You,’ Blocked by Elvis Presley’s Manager’s Ultimatum, Was the Song He Sang to Priscilla at Their Divorce

Over the next 18 years, he put 40 songs at the top of the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. He did it with “Hello Darlin‘,” which sat at No. 1 for four weeks in 1970. He did it with the controversial “You’ve Never Been This Far Before” that some stations flat-out refused to air. He did it alongside Loretta Lynn — 10 albums together, 5 No. 1 hits, and 4 years in a row taking home the CMA Vocal Duo of the Year. Eleven of those 40 No. 1s were songs he wrote himself. He held that record for 20 years. George Strait broke it in 2006 and now has 44. But for two decades it belonged to the guy who’d named himself after two towns on a map.

He built Twitty City in Hendersonville, Tennessee — his own version of Graceland with a museum, a chapel, and guided tours. Fans came from all over the country just to walk around it. Country comedian Jerry Clower started calling him “The High Priest of Country Music” because his crowds felt more like a church revival than a concert. Conway Twitty died June 5, 1993, at 59 years old.

The Name That Stuck

The towns of Conway, Arkansas, and Twitty, Texas, are both still there. Most people living there today have no idea their towns inspired the name of one of country music’s most remarkable careers. Twitty City was sold and repurposed, but the name Conway Twitty never went anywhere. Harold Jenkins — the kid the Phillies wanted, the guy Sun Records turned away, the rock star who walked away from everything — is buried in Hendersonville, Tennessee. His 40 No. 1 country singles are still on the books. George Strait has more now. But Conway Twitty got there first, held the record for 20 years, and did it with a name he found on a road map.

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It’s hard to walk down a grocery store aisle now without seeing products that are packed with protein. In addition to classic protein sources like meats and legumes, there’s an arsenal of snack foods, shakes, pastas and more that have protein added. Couple that with all the messaging on social media that you’re not eating enough protein and it’s no wonder that many people are asking themselves if they should be on a high-protein diet. 

High-protein diets have been a favorite of exercise enthusiasts and bodybuilders for years, but with all the hype around protein, more and more Americans are thinking about their protein intake. While protein provides plenty of perks, like supporting muscle growth and helping you feel full after meals, eating too much of the nutrient can come with serious downsides, according to Jessica Cording, RD, CDN, author of The Little Book of Game-Changers. 

“I definitely am seeing people taking their protein intake above and beyond what they need,” Cording tells Parade. You may have already heard about the risk of kidney issues, cardiovascular disease and digestive issues if you go overboard with protein, but new research published in the journal Cell Press Blue uncovered another surprising downside of eating a high-protein diet—and people aren’t talking about it enough.

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The Surprising Downside of Eating a High-Protein Diet

Eating a high-protein diet could actually shorten your lifespan, according to the scientific review. For the study, researchers analyzed more than 350 studies on humans, mice, insects, yeast and other organisms, and discovered several biological effects that suggest easing up on your protein intake could improve your health and lifespan. 

The researchers linked a lower protein intake with better metabolism, cellular health and use of nutrients within the body, among other things.

It’s important to stress that the study didn’t find that eating a high-protein diet will shorten your life. Instead, it found an association between having less protein and living longer. 

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

Further complicating things is that the studies included in the research didn’t have one single definition of what it means to have a low protein intake. (One study in rats classified “low” protein as taking in just 4% of their calories from protein, while others had wildly different classifications.) That makes it hard to say what having a “low” protein diet that would potentially increase your lifespan even means. 

Still, Cording says there’s food for thought here. 

Why Might Eating Less Protein Be Better for Healthy Aging?

Again, there are a lot of unexplained variables here. But, in the case of this study, there are a few likely explanations, per the researchers. 

One is that cutting back on protein could lead to an increase in fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21), a hormone in the body that rises as you take in less protein. FGF21 increases your body’s use of calories and can improve blood sugar management while reducing inflammation in the body. (The researchers flagged a few mouse studies that found that rodents with higher levels of FGF21 lived longer than mice.)

Related: ‘I’m an Endocrinologist—This Is the First Question I Ask When Someone Is Always Cold’

Amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein, also seem to play a role. Cutting back on specific amino acids—methionine, isoleucine and valine—may support healthier aging because they activate biological pathways that can increase the risk of obesity and inflammation, both of which are linked with aging.

A lot of the concern with a high-protein diet is inflammation, but there are a lot of variables, Cording says.

“It depends on what is driving that inflammation,” she explains. “It also depends on what sources of protein a person is utilizing and what else in their diet. There’s a lot of nuance there.”

What To Know About the Current Protein Recommendations

The Dietary Guidelines for Americans were updated in January 2026 and included changes in protein intake recommendations. The latest guidelines suggest having 1.2 to 1.6 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight a day (meaning, a 150-pound adult should have 80 to 110 grams of protein daily). The previous guidelines recommended having 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight. No doubt, this has further fueled the protein craze—but it’s important to take these guidelines with a grain of salt.

While messaging on social media suggests that everyone is deficient in protein, research suggests that’s not the case. A data analysis of 7,910 adults that was published in the journal Critical Public Health in 2025 found that American adults who log 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise a week typically have about 82 grams of protein a day. Those who didn’t meet those exercise guidelines took in 79 grams of protein. 

“Many people are eating too much protein,” Cording says. “We’re exposed to so much messaging about a high-protein diet that it’s making people overdo it.”

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

Protein is very important for health and longevity, Cording says. She just recommends aiming to have about 30 grams of protein per meal to keep things in check. “Most adults do not need 50 grams of protein in one meal,” she clarifies. “Your body does great if you stick to 30 grams of protein per meal or so.” 

Cording also recommends being aware of other macronutrients when it comes to diet and longevity. “I frequently see people being so focused on protein that they neglect other important nutrients, like fiber,” she says. “Then, they can become constipated or their cholesterol goes up.” Too much protein can also raise the risk of weight gain, she points out.

Overall, if you’re struggling to find the right amount of protein for your needs, it can be helpful to check in with your doctor or a dietitian. But Cording stresses that you shouldn’t cut way back on your protein intake for a longer life. “We still need protein,” she emphasizes.

Up Next:

Sources:

• Jessica Cording, RD, CDN, author of The Little Book of Game-Changers. 
• Knopf B, et all. The Hallmarks of Protein and Amino Acid Restriction in Aging and Longevity, Cell Press Blue, 2026
• Dietary Guidelines for Americans, United States Department of Agriculture
• Vernarelli, J. A., et all. Protein Intake Patterns, Health Profiles, Body Composition Among US Adults By Physical Activity Levels: NHANES 2017–2020. Critical Public Health, 2026

There’s something satisfying about making a food from scratch at least once. There’s also something satisfying about realizing you never need to do it again.

That second feeling came up quite a bit when we asked culinary pros which foods they’re perfectly content to buy frozen. French fries, vegetables, pizza dough and even vanilla ice cream all got a mention. The freezer aisle can save a lot of work, especially when the version already sitting there is pretty good already.

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Knowing how to make something doesn’t mean a chef wants to spend hours doing it every time either. If the frozen version is already good, there’s not much reason to turn dinner into an all-afternoon project just to make every last piece of it yourself. Especially when all that extra work may not leave you with something noticeably better.

For four of the experts we spoke with, one food in particular had long since crossed that line. They know their way around the homemade version, but they’d still rather buy it frozen. One expert even stuck with making his own for years before finally deciding he’d had enough. Read on to see what frozen foods these chefs never make and what other frozen food shortcuts they like to take.

The Big Reveal: Why Chefs Refuse to Make Puff Pastry From Scratch

Kristsina Shoba / Getty Images

The frozen food our culinary pros agreed they’d rather buy? Puff pastry.

These days, David Leite, the founder and publisher of Leite’s Culinaria, reaches for Dufour Puff Pastry, which he says is as tasty as his homemade version but much more consistent. He especially likes that it’s made with the same basic ingredients he uses himself: butter, flour, water, salt and lemon juice.

Krystel Spann, a culinary-trained recipe developer and founder of Krystel’s Cooking, has also made laminated dough from scratch, and knowing the process is precisely why she’s willing to skip it. “A good frozen puff pastry gives you a beautifully crisp, buttery result with a fraction of the work,” she says. “For the average home cook, I think it’s one of those shortcuts where you really aren’t sacrificing much by buying it.”

Chef Dean Harper, founder of Harper Privé, agrees, particularly when an all-butter frozen puff pastry is available. Beyond saving time, he likes that a frozen sheet has an even thickness, which makes shaping easier, and that it can stay in the freezer until it’s needed.

Leite uses frozen puff pastry for turnovers, beef Wellington, palmiers, napoleons, pot pies and cheese sticks. He even uses it for Portuguese pastéis de nata when he doesn’t feel like making the pastry himself.

Related: 10 Trader Joe’s Frozen Foods That Make Weeknight Dinner So Much Easier

The Culinary Math: Why the Scratch Version Isn’t Worth the Effort

Paulo Arsand / Getty Images

So, what makes puff pastry such an intensive project? Those flaky layers don’t happen by accident. The classic method involves enclosing butter in dough, then rolling, folding and chilling it repeatedly to build layer after layer.

“It’s perfectly possible at home, but it takes several hours of elapsed time and enough fridge space to keep everything cool between turns,” Harper says. “If the butter gets too warm and blends into the dough, you lose the structure you’ve worked to build.”

Spann knows the process firsthand too. “I’ve learned how to make laminated dough from scratch, so I have a lot of respect for the process—but that’s also exactly why I’m happy to buy it frozen!” she says. “Making puff pastry properly requires repeated rolling, folding, chilling and careful temperature control to create all of those flaky layers.”

The payoff from buying it frozen isn’t just saving a few steps. You get the laminating out of the way entirely and can spend that time on whatever the pastry is actually holding. As Harper puts it, “For something like a mushroom tart, I’d much rather spend my time cooking a really good filling than organizing the afternoon around chilling dough.”

Other Frozen Shortcuts Culinary Experts Secretly Rely On

Jose A. Bernat Bacete / Getty Images

Puff pastry isn’t the only thing these culinary pros are happy to leave to the freezer aisle. Here are a few other shortcuts they keep around.

• Phyllo dough: Spann is also happy to buy phyllo dough frozen rather than make it from scratch.
• Hash browns and french fries: Spann also skips the potato prep and buys both frozen.
• Frozen fruits and vegetables: Spann buys peas and corn, while Rena Awada, a certified nutrition coach (PN1) and founder of Healthy Fitness Meals, stocks peas, corn, spinach, berries and edamame. Awada likes having produce available year-round and being able to portion out only what she needs.
• Pizza dough: Awada sometimes reaches for frozen pizza dough when she doesn’t want to make her own.
• Stuffed potato skins: Leite starts with frozen potato skins, then piles on more cheese, bacon and fresh chives.
• Pearl onions: Leite happily skips the snipping, blanching and peeling required to prep them. “I’m too old and impatient to snip, blanch and peel them by hand,” he says.
• Vanilla ice cream: Leite makes plenty of his own ice cream, but vanilla is the exception. After trying numerous homemade versions without getting the clean, milky vanilla flavor he wants, “I buy Häagen-Dazs and tell no one,” he says.

How Chefs Elevate Store-Bought Frozen Puff Pastry

Gingagi / Getty Images

You don’t need to do much to frozen puff pastry, but Spann says there is one thing to watch: the temperature.

“The biggest thing is keeping it cold. I thaw puff pastry according to the package directions, but I don’t let it sit around until it becomes warm and overly soft. Cold dough helps those layers puff beautifully in the oven,” she says.

From there, she likes to dress it up a little. “I also like brushing the top with an egg wash before baking for that glossy, golden-brown finish. Depending on what I’m making, I might add coarse sugar for a sweet pastry, or Parmesan, herbs or flaky salt for something savory.”

If you’re making a tart, Harper says to watch the filling too. He cooks mushrooms until their liquid has evaporated and lets them cool before putting them on the pastry.

“Keep the topping fairly light so the pastry isn’t buried beneath a thick, wet layer,” Harper says. “Follow the packet’s baking temperature and fully preheat the oven before the tart goes in. I’d check underneath before taking it out rather than judge it only by the color around the edges.”

Once it’s done, he moves the tart to a wire rack for a few minutes so steam can escape underneath rather than soften the bottom.

Leite, meanwhile, doesn’t bother with any of this when he uses Dufour. “I do nothing to it. The dough is perfect every time,” he says.

Final Thoughts

Frozen puff pastry is also just a handy thing to have around. A sheet in the freezer can turn leftover vegetables, a little cheese or whatever fruit needs to be used up into a tart without much effort. And considering it works for everything from pot pies to palmiers, you probably won’t have much trouble finding a reason to use it.

Sources:

• David Leite is the founder and publisher of Leite’s Culinaria.
• Krystel Spann is a culinary-trained recipe developer and founder of Krystel’s Cooking.
• Dean Harper is a chef and founder of Harper Privé.
• Rena Awada is a certified nutrition coach (PN1) and founder of Healthy Fitness Meals.

Related: The Secret Way To Make Frozen Pie Crust 10x Better, According to Pastry Experts

Home decor comes in many different shapes and sizes. And while elevating the interior of your space comes easier to some than others, there are still plenty of ways to get inspired should a little seasonal refresh be in order. 

Take Hobby Lobby, for example, and the brand-new Kinkeeping collection co-created by one of the stars of Duck Dynasty. Our favorite pick of the lineup? The Kinkeeping Silver Crocodile Metal Tray, a stylish yet practical piece that can effortlessly transform any countertop or table space. At just $16.99, it serves as a perfect example of a simple way to add personality to your home without breaking the bank.

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Kinkeeping Silver Crocodile Metal Tray, $16.99 at Hobby Lobby

Hobby Lobby

Designed to be a creative accent you can place in any room, the Kinkeeping Silver Crocodile Metal Tray offers an elegant balance of character and charm while serving as a creative catchall or unique conversation piece. At just $17 a pop, it features an eye-catching crocodile design with realistic-looking scales, four legs, a cute little head and a curved tail.

“Such good quality,” one fan shared in a review. “It is so well made,” they added, calling it “solid and beautiful” and urging others that “if the silver goes with your decor, YOU NEED THIS!”

Another shopper chimed in to add to the tray’s average five-star rating, saying, “I love this so much! It’s beautiful and very well made.”

Related: Hobby Lobby’s $11 Salt and Pepper Shakers Add Rustic Charm to Your Kitchen

A Creative Conversation Starter Worth Showing Off

Hobby Lobby

Measuring 1.5 inches tall, 15 inches wide and nine inches deep, this stylish little crocodile tray is conveniently compact while still serving as a statement piece in its own right. It’s made entirely of metal with a shiny silver finish, giving it an antique-inspired look that goes well with a wide range of interior styles. Set it on your entryway console table or coffee table as a catchall for phone, wallet, keys and jewelry, or pair it with other wildlife accents and earthy hues to complete an already existing theme.

Just keep in mind that this tray is not intended for use with food, but it can be wiped clean periodically with a damp cloth to keep its shiny appearance. Otherwise, its low-profile design and spacious flat surface make it a versatile pick for all kinds of decor needs. Best of all, it’s conveniently priced so it won’t break the bank, making it a solid gift for any nature-loving friend or family member, too.

Be sure to snatch one (or two) up while this stylish tray is still in stock. And while you’re at it, check out more pieces from the collection, like this $7 Reactive Glaze Ribbed Stoneware Mug and $15 White & Beige Fluted Edge Ceramic Pie Dish.

Related: Costco’s 1,154-Piece Lego Set Features an Iconic Character From the 1993 Cult Classic ‘Jurassic Park’

Slipknot, the heavy metal band, once again teased fans with their much-awaited new album, hinting that it could take an unexpected direction.

The eight-member band, best known for its signature anthem “Duality,” is gearing up for its first new studio album since the release of its 2022 record, The End, So Far.

In an Instagram update, Jim Root, the guitarist of Slipknot, offered a glimpse into the band’s plans for the next few months, revealing that he is settling into the studio for the rest of the year.

“Closer. This is where I’ll spend the rest of the year. With these amps and a few various guitars that I’ll put up later. This will also set a course for the new rack/rig that @bradclifford will be subjected to! Because as you know by now… We’re about to get real busy,” he captioned his post, accompanied by a video showing a peek into the band’s studio.

Jim Root of Slipknot performs in concert during Resurrection Fest on June 28, 2025 in Viveiro, Spain.

Mariano Regidor/Redferns

In the comment section, fans expressed their excitement for the band’s new music while supporting their desire to make the kind of music they genuinely want to make again, without outside pressures.

“I feel like y’all have always done what you wanted to do, with the exception of TESF, because y’all have talked ad nauseum about that process. I’m just excited for you guys to do what YOU WANT to do again, without the label and corporate pressure. I think that’s the only way to appropriately compare the early records to now…you guys writing the music for yourselves and where you’re at in life. That said, Ngl, bummed about KKTX and Manson being anywhere near y’all, but understand it might not just be up to y’all. Thanks for your candor Jim, in your interactions and conversations with us as fans. Happy recording!” a fan said.

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“so excited for the new sound. @jamesroot you’re a force, ALWAYS,” one wrote.

“@jamesroot Very much looking forward to hearing new music from you. And I love Arsenal,” a commenter echoed.

On the other hand, Root also took to the comment section to reply to some fans who were encouraging the musician to make the next album as heavy, dark and groove-driven as possible, while drawing inspiration from the intensity of Slayer and Slipknot’s earlier material.

“Thank you! A very important thing for us at this time is to not ‘repeat’ ourselves. It’s gonna hurt some feelings. We’re really experimenting with different approaches… don’t expect another ‘Iowa’ or ‘self-titled’ record. We’ve been there. The vibe feels honest and true to me. It’s uneasy and reminds me of recording in the earlier days. I’m not saying that means it will translate to the type of music we’re creating or the sound/production of it. The early records had the vibe. You can’t miss that with Ross. But they always sounded “LoFi” to me. And some of the later records felt/sounded “overproduced” … like. Too many layers of guitar etc.; we don’t need that. Me and Mick. L and R and then a few 3rd tracks and maybe solos. That’s it. And of the 16 amps I vetted to record with. Matt and I chose the most pissed off sounding one. Not necessarily the “best” sounding one. The most exciting sounding… liveliest etc. we did track on the floor live with Eloy. We hadn’t done that in a long time for various reasons. Everything is analog and played. All the pieces that need to be there are there.”

Root was referring to producer Matt Wallace, who is best known for his work with Faith No More, O.A.R., Maroon 5 and others.

He is also working with Slipknot on the recording of the upcoming album and previously collaborated with the band on their standalone song “Arsenal.”

Earlier this year, the Slipknot side project Look Outside Your Window received its long-awaited release.

It debuted as a limited release on April 18 for Record Store Day, followed by a broader physical release on June 12.

Four members, including Corey Taylor, Jim Root, Shawn “Clown” Crahan and then-member Sid Wilson, recorded the album.

Related: 1977 Soft Rock Song, Which Dethroned the Bee Gees, Is Still a Generational Hit 49 Years Later

When Toby Keith topped the country charts in 2002 with “Who’s Your Daddy?”, the song was driven by his signature swagger, a boisterous, tongue-in-cheek showcase of male bravado.

Fast forward more than two decades, and breakout star Megan Moroney gave the early-2000s smash a stunning second life that nobody saw coming. Moroney reinterpreted the lyrics and turned a male-dominated anthem into a woman’s song.

Moroney flipped the tune on its head and gave it an emotional depth that was hiding in plain sight all along. The result turned Keith’s familiar hook into a female-power moment.

Keith recorded “Who’s Your Daddy” in August 2002 as part of his eighth studio album, Unleashed. The song reached number one on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and peaked at number 22 on the Billboard Hot 100.

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In the song, the narrator sings about a young woman experiencing a streak of bad luck after her college boyfriend leaves for the summer, offering her casual shelter, support, and financial security. Keith plays off the tune not as a serious proposition, but as a playful tease without any real romantic promise. The fun video pays homage to scenes from the films Pretty Woman and Risky Business and ends with a twist fans didn’t see coming.

In a press release for the song, Keith said, “It’s everything that I ever wanted to put into a song; it’s got the groove, it’s got the attitude, it’s humorous, it’s about a sugar daddy. And it’s got a real funny little Elvis [Presley] thing in it, like ‘Viva Las Vegas’… It’s got a New Orleans piano in it. You should have seen the band light up when we cut that; they didn’t want to quit that groove; it was just an unbelievable groove.”

Moroney told Apple Music, as reported by Country Living, “It’s my band’s hype song that we play before every single show, so much so that I made it into our pre-show playlist. It hypes me up, it gets me ready for a show, and it’s just iconic.”

Moroney recorded the track for the Apple Music Nashville Sessions: Toby Keith Covered project honoring Keith. The country hitmaker died in February 2024.

Related: 2002 Polarizing Patriotic Anthem Was Written in 20 Minutes—But One Country Music Legend Refused to Record It

After nearly 20 years away from a camera, fan-favorite Scrubs actor Johnny Kastl is expected to return to acting.

The news comes via Deadline, who reported on several key castings expected to take place in season two of the Scrubs revival.

When asked for her dream cast list for the second season of the show, showrunner and executive producer Aseem Batra rattled quite a few prominent names from Scrubs‘ earlier run on NBC and, later, ABC.

“Well, we’ve got Johnny Kastl, we’ve got Scott Foley, we would love to have him back, and, of course, Ken Jenkins,” Batra told Deadline earlier this year. “We want to see more of Neil Flynn. So we have quite a wishlist.”

As it happened, most of that wishlist ultimately came to fruition, with many of the names Batra listed set to appear in season two of Scrubs.

Above all else, Kastl’s inclusion is Scrubs‘ second season might be the most unexpected and exciting of the bunch. Having first made a name for himself playing the woefully under-qualified doctor Doug Murphy, Kastl decided to step away from acting in 2009.

In the years since, he has worked as an attorney and business executive, more recently serving as the vice president of Business Development and Strategic Partnerships for Acorn Finance.

In spite of his accomplished career ventures in recent years, Batra has said that getting Kastl involved in the show has long remained a goal of hers. Speaking with Deadline about her goals for Scrubs‘ second season, she revealed her hope to finally include Kastl in the series, likely in the final episodes of season two.

“That that is my plan,” Batra hinted. “We’ll see how it all shakes up but we’re writing two more [episodes], and we have him planned in one of those last two.”

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Sweater weather is officially here, and Amazon just dropped a fall-ready knit that looks far pricier than its $10 sale price. The Lomon Mock Neck Knitted Sweater is currently marked down from $37, with the white version at the steepest 73% discount. You can choose from 17 shades, including apricot, burgundy, sky blue, army green, and several color-blocked options. Prices vary by color, and it’s available in sizes small through XXL.

The pullover is made from 50% viscose, 28% polyester, and 22% polyamide, with a lightweight feel that should be easy to wear before heavier winter sweaters need to come back out. It features a diamond geometric knit across the front and ribbing around the mock neckline, cuffs, and hem. It also has long sleeves, a stretchy fit, and a pull-on design, making it an easy grab for workdays, weekends, and everything in between.

Lomon Mock Neck Knitted Sweater, From $10 (was $37) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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The sweater’s subtle knit pattern adds just enough detail to make it look a little more elevated than a plain style, but not so much that you’ll get tired of wearing it. Its lighter weight also makes it ideal for early fall, whether you wear it alone or layer a jacket over it later.

One shopper called it an “unbelievable bargain” and wrote, “It looks like cashmere but feels soft, not itchy.” Another said it “looks expensive” but “feels incredibly soft,” and described the sweater as “very lightweight and unbelievably soft, making it perfect for layering or wearing on its own.” They also said the detailing makes it “look much more expensive than it actually is.”

For an easy fall outfit, you could pair the white or apricot version with jeans, ankle boots, and a long coat. The burgundy or chocolate would be great if you’re leaning into the season’s richer colors, while black or navy could easily work for the office with a midi skirt and Mary Jane flats. You could even go more casual with leggings and sneakers for a coffee run or errands. 

Shop More Deals

• Wiholl Color Block Sweater, $10 (was $18) at Amazon
• Lillusory Oversized Turtleneck Sweater, $20 (was $43) at Amazon
• Wiholl V-Neck Knit Sweater, From $18 (was $25) at Amazon

Related: Walmart’s ‘Silky’ Scalloped Cardigan Goes With Every Fall Outfit, and It’s Just $15

The Lomon Mock Neck Knitted Sweater is a steal at just $10, especially since you can wear it through fall, winter, and even chilly early spring days. With 17 colors to choose from and plenty of ways to style it, it’s an easy budget-friendly addition to your wardrobe. Shop the selection on Amazon while the limited-time pricing is still live.

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.

You cannot walk through an airport terminal or clear a TSA security checkpoint anywhere in the world without spotting that unmistakable matte clamshell silhouette.

When Away first burst onto the luggage scene a decade ago, it fundamentally reshaped how a generation travels. Between its sleek minimalist shell, smooth-gliding spinner wheels, and smart interior compression system, it earned top honors across virtually every major gear roundup—frequently crowned the number-one carry-on by the likes of Wirecutter, Good Housekeeping, and Travel + Leisure.

For me, it has long been a personal travel workhorse—the forever carry-on I reflexively grab whenever I need to maximize every square inch of packing space without checking a bag. It has dashed with me across tight airport connections, rattled across rough European cobblestones, rolled up cruise ship gangways, and been tossed into overhead bins by hurried flight attendants without showing so much as a structural battle scar.

Now, the luggage giant is touching its magic formula.

Away has officially unveiled its most significant product evolution yet: the debut of the Series 3 luggage collection alongside an entirely new lineup dubbed the Signature Bag collection. Across its classic hardshells, expandable Flex styles, and day bags, the brand has introduced a wave of thoughtful engineering tweaks designed to answer real traveler feedback.

Related: Hard-Shell or Soft-Sided Luggage? Professional Travelers Say There’s a Clear Winner

Away

The Little Upgrades That Make a Major Difference

When you live out of a suitcase, it’s rarely the flashy gimmicks that win you over. It’s the micro-frustrations that vanish in high-stress moments.

In testing the new Bigger Carry-On Flex in Coast Blue, it quickly became clear that these updates were engineered by people who actually travel. It’s all about the little moments where functionality wins—like having the full trio of top, side, and underside grab handles for effortless leverage when hoisting a packed-to-the-brim bag into a high overhead bin, paired with the new Infinite Height trolley that finally locks at your exact height instead of awkward preset stops. Add in the built-in StopLock wheel brakes that keep your bag from rolling down a train aisle, and the clever hideaway hooks that hold your coat terminal-side, and the travel experience feels noticeably more seamless.

Away

Inside, Away tweaked the internal architecture to solve one of the most annoying micro-frustrations of clamshell packing: the divider flap. Instead of hinging from the center spine where it constantly flopped into the middle and blocked your view, the updated compression panel flips outward toward the edge of the case. That leaves both compartments completely open and visible at once, so you aren’t fighting a loose fabric divider while organizing your clothes. It’s paired with the upgraded CompressMore system, which cinches down flatter and tighter than previous generations to squeeze out extra bulk.

Away

Here’s a closer look at the full hardware overhaul built into Series 3:

• StopLock Brakes: A built-in wheel brake system that stops your bag from rolling away on tilted train platforms or moving shuttle buses.
• Infinite Height Trolley: Five times more stopping points along the telescoping handle, letting you lock it at the exact ergonomic height you need rather than settling for three rigid settings.
• Handsfree Hideaway Hooks: Clever clips integrated into the trolley handle so you can hang a jacket, a water bottle, or a duty-free tote while navigating the terminal.
• Hidden Tracker Sleeve: A dedicated interior pocket tailored to conceal an AirTag or Bluetooth tracker without taking up packing volume.
• WhisperGlide 360 Wheels: Re-engineered spinner wheels that glide even more silently over tiled concourses and asphalt.

Related: I Stress-Tested the 5 Most Viral Carry-Ons for Six Months—Here’s My Honest Verdict

Finally, a Travel Tote That Solves the “Laptop Flop”

I am constantly caught in the great tote versus travel backpack personal-item debate. I love a tote for its cavernous roominess—I am forever bringing home extra trip merchandise, books, and snacks—but I dread how unstructured totes let a laptop flop awkwardly to one side, throwing off your balance. On the flip side, travel backpacks offer great ergonomics, but they don’t always feel right walking into an upscale hotel lobby or dinner.

Testing The Signature Tote in Navy Blue felt like finding the missing middle ground.

It’s structured enough to stand completely upright on its own on the terminal floor, meaning you aren’t awkwardly fighting a collapsing canvas sack while digging for your passport at boarding. Inside, a dedicated padded laptop sleeve finally solves the flopping issue, keeping your computer secure and centered while leaving a deep well of space for pouches, chargers, and toiletries.

Best of all, the shoulder straps are intentionally unpadded. In real-world travel, overly thick, padded tote straps constantly bunch up, pinch your neck, and resist sliding easily over your shoulder when you’re already juggling a coat. These flat, sturdy straps slip smoothly over your arm and slide cleanly onto your rolling luggage handle via the integrated trolley sleeve, yet easily compress down flat under the seat in front of you.

For travelers who prefer hands-free airport navigation, the collection also introduces The Signature Slim Commuter Backpack, offering a sleek, low-profile silhouette with magnetic quick-access pockets that keep essentials secure without looking bulky.

Upgrading an industry-defining product is always a risk, but Away managed to leave what made its bags beloved in the first place untouched, while quietly fixing the exact friction points frequent flyers care about most. If your current carry-on has seen better days, the new lineup makes a compelling case for your next getaway.

Related: I Stress-Tested the 5 Most Viral Travel Bags for Six Months—Here’s My Honest Verdict

If your ideal holiday fantasy involves crisp New England air, twinkling fairy lights strung around a town gazebo, and an endless mug of diner coffee, it’s time to start planning a trip to Southern California.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood has officially announced Gilmore Girls Holidays, an expanded evolution of its popular winter celebration that transforms the studio’s Midwestern backlot straight into Stars Hollow. Running from December 12, 2026, through January 3, 2027 (closed Christmas Day), this year’s edition marks the studio’s largest and most ambitious fan experience dedicated to the beloved series to date.

Related: 14 Charming Small Towns That Feel Straight Out of Stars Hollow

BURBANK, CALIFORNIA – DECEMBER 17: Holidays Made Here at Warner Bros. Studios on December 17, 2025 in Burbank, California. (Photo by Vivien Killilea/Getty Images for Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood) Brand-New Sets and Rare Soundstage Access BURBANK, CALIFORNIA – DECEMBER 17: Holidays Made Here at Warner Bros. Studios on December 17, 2025 in Burbank, California. (Photo by Vivien Killilea/Getty Images for Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood)

Warner Bros.

While previous iterations let fans stroll past Lorelai’s house and snap photos in the town square, this year’s event opens up a host of newly reconstructed sets and never-before-toured locations.

For the first time ever, fans can step right into Luke’s Apartment, painstakingly rebuilt inside its original Stage 13 filming location using the show’s original production blueprints and decor. Visitors can also walk through the Chilton School Graduation Courtyard to relive Rory’s valedictorian milestone, explore an expanded walkthrough of the formal Gilmore Estate in Hartford, and even take part in an interactive holiday version of Rory’s Basket Auction.

For those hoping for a sighting of Stars Hollow’s favorite flannel-clad diner owner, actor Scott Patterson (Luke Danes) will make special guest appearances during the run, hosting live podcast tapings and meet-and-greet photo opportunities available for an additional add-on.

Related: How Heated Rivalry Has Everyone Traveling to This Tiny Canadian Town Right Now

Comfort Food and Secret Cocktails

Naturally, no trip to the backlot would feel authentic without food meant to satisfy Lorelai and Rory’s legendary appetites.

The holiday culinary lineup features Caesar’s Chilaquiles Nachos served in an upside-down collectible Luke’s baseball cap, alongside a keepsake Stars Hollow Gazebo Popcorn Bucket. Over at the Stars Hollow Creamery, guests can order specialty shakes themed around Rory’s boyfriends—Dean, Jess, and Logan.

For the 21-and-over crowd, an on-site Secret Bar will shake up themed cocktails including a decadent tiramisu martini, Jackson’s peach julep, and a frosty peppermint colada dubbed the “I Smell Snow.”

Collectibles and Ticket Options BURBANK, CALIFORNIA – DECEMBER 17: Holidays Made Here at Warner Bros. Studios on December 17, 2025 in Burbank, California. (Photo by Vivien Killilea/Getty Images for Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood)

Warner Bros.

Holiday shoppers can browse exclusive apparel and accessories created in collaboration with Her Universe, as well as brand-new Department 56 holiday village miniatures depicting Miss Patty’s School of Ballet and Kim’s Antiques.

Tickets are on sale now at wbstudiotour.com, with two admission tiers available:

• Gilmore Girls Holidays General Admission: $79
• Studio Tour Bundle: $124, which includes admission to the Gilmore Girls event plus the full Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood experience.

Whether you know every fast-talking line by heart or simply want to sip coffee beside the gazebo, stepping onto the backlot this December will feel like heading home for the holidays.

Related: Lauren Graham Says New ‘Gilmore Girls’ Documentary Is ‘Surprisingly Emotional’

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Every kitchen needs a measuring cup, but not all measuring cups are created equal. Pyrex has a sturdy, durable and convenient option that’s a must-have in any home, and you can snag it right from Kohl’s.

Pyrex’s Prepware 2-Cup Glass Measuring Cup is a must-have in any kitchen. Constructed from Pyrex’s signature heavy-duty tempered glass, this is a cooking and baking staple built to last and to be part of your kitchen’s arsenal for years and years to come. Even better, it’s oven-, microwave-, dishwasher- and freezer-safe.

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Pyrex Prepware 2-Cup Glass Measuring Cup, $7.19 at Kohl’s

Kohl's

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This Pyrex measuring cup allows you to measure your baking and cooking ingredients easily. It has large, bold labels in red font to quickly measure everything from sugar to milk and every ingredient in between. It features both standard and metric measurements for even more convenience. Its comfortable handle offers a safe, sturdy grip when pouring and handling, while its drip-free spout makes for easy, mess-free pouring. It has a two-cup total capacity.

Related: Add a Touch of Rustic Charm to Your Home With Kohl’s $22 Terra-Cotta Cut-Out Pumpkins

Shoppers are loving this Pyrex measuring cup, giving it an average rating of 4.8 stars on Kohls.com, with 93 percent of reviewers saying they would recommend it to others. Reviewers on Kohl’s website rate the measuring cup highly for its quality, value and durability.

“Excellent quality,” raved one fan in a five-star review on Kohls.com. “I have had my previous Pyrex measuring cup for about 40 years. The measurements were finally wearing off, prompting me to replace it.”

“Fits all of my needs,” said another happy Kohl’s shopper in a five-star review on Kohl’s website. “I bought this measuring cup because I specifically wanted a glass measuring cup with a handle that held a two-cup capacity. I also like the sturdiness of this glass cup and the fact it is a safe choice to melt butter in the microwave.”

You can find this Pyrex measuring cup on Kohls.com or in select Kohl’s stores. It’s currently on sale for $7.19, marked down from its regular price of $8.99.

Related: Bring English Garden Charm to Any Room With Kohl’s Vintage-Inspired Washable Rug

The official cause of death for Naked Eyes member and co-founder Peter Byrne has been revealed.

PEOPLE obtained the death certificate filed with the Los Angeles Department of Health, revealing that the musician died from an “acute hemorrhagic stroke.” It was also reported that underlying conditions of colitis may have contributed to his death, but were not the root cause.

The New Wave band made the official announcement of the rocker’s death on their website. They said the singer and songwriter had died “peacefully” in Los Angeles on Monday, Sept. 14, after a “brief illness.” There were no further details at the time about his cause of death.

A private service was held for Byrne, as he is survived by his siblings Eileen, Sandy, Carol, and Steve; his three children, Merlin, Dylan, and Chloe; and his ex-wife, Elena.

Born in Islington, North London, on June 9, 1952, Byrne was one of six children and joined the music scene as a teen after moving to Bath, England. It was there that Byrne met Rob Fisher, and they were originally part of the new wave band Neon.

The two later formed Naked Eyes in 1982 and released their debut album, Burning Bridges, in the U.K. and Naked Eyes in the U.S. Naked Eyes landed at No. 32 on the Billboard 200 with their album and would release multiple hits on the charts.

They became largely known for their first hit, “Always Something There to Remind Me,” a cover of the track written by Burt Bacharach and Hal David in 1964. Naked Eyes’ cover was the first time the song gained popularity in the U.S. and peaked at No. 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the summer of 1983.

Byrne revealed it was one of the many demos the group recorded before forming Naked Eyes, and “I had always loved the song ‘Always Something There to Remind Me’ so we called a friend who had the record, he read the lyric over the phone and we put it together from memory.”

Despite having top 40 hits, Naked Eyes disbanded following the release of their second album in 1984. The group never toured due to the technical difficulties of recreating their sound live. Fisher died in 1999 at the age of 42 following cancer surgery.

Following Fisher’s death, Byrne revived Naked Eyes as a solo act in 2005 and released new albums. In 2025, a remastered version of Burning Bridges was released.

Related: 1968 Country Song, Written in 30 Minutes for Aretha Franklin, Is Still a a Cross-Generational Hit 58 Years Later

In 1979, AC/DC’s Highway to Hell album was the last to feature lead singer Bon Scott. And the final song on the album went out on the eeriest of notes.

Written by Scott, Angus Young and Malcolm Young, “Night Prowler,“ the 10th and final track on Highway to Hell, ran for over six minutes, with a slow, bluesy pace and ominous lyrics suitable for a horror movie. Nearly 50 years later, it’s remembered as one of AC/DC’s creepiest songs.

At the time of its release, “Night Prowler” was not part of AC/DC’s concert set list—at first perhaps due to the chaos of Scott’s sudden death in February 1980 and the rush to get the follow-up album, Back in Black, out with new lead singer Brian Johnson.

But the song’s fate was seemingly sealed a few years later when it was tied to a California serial killer.

According to Ultimate Classic Rock, “Night Prowler” became “a source of controversy” in the mid-’80s when serial killer Richard Ramirez, nicknamed the “Night Stalker,” said he was “a huge fan of the band.”

In 1985, The Los Angeles Times described the “Night Prowler” as “the song that reportedly obsessed the man suspected of the Night Stalker killings.”

There was no denying that Ramirez was an AC/DC fan. UPI reported that in interviews, the convicted killer claimed Highway to Hell was his favorite album, and an AC/DC hat belonging to him was reportedly discovered at a crime scene. But the outlet also noted, “The link between Ramirez and this song was mostly a media creation.”

While AC/DC never played “Night Prowler” live, Malcolm Young made the song’s intent clear in an attempt to distance his band from the killings.

“The song is not called ‘Night Stalker,’ it’s called ‘Night Prowler,'” the guitarist stated on VH1’s Behind the Music, per UCR. “It’s about things you used to do when you were a kid, like sneaking into a girlfriend’s room when her parents were asleep.”

Ramirez was captured in 1985 and convicted in 1989 of 13 Los Angeles-area murders and was sentenced to death, according to ABC 7. He died of liver failure while on San Quentin’s death row in 2013 at age 53.

Related: 1980 Rock Classic, Written Weeks After Singer’s Death, Is Suddenly Climbing the Charts 46 Years Later

Rob Lowe is giving fans a positive update for the development of the long-planned sequel to ’80s Brat Pack hit, St. Elmo’s Fire.

“It is definitely in the works, for sure,” Lowe said during a recent appearance on Watch What Happens Live (via Variety). “All of us actors want to do it, and we’re supposed to get a draft of the script the first week of October.”

Released in 1985 and serving as one of the defining films of the Brat Pack, St. Elmo’s Fire follows a group of fresh college graduates from Georgetown University as they transition from school into adulthood.

Starring Lowe, Emilio Estevez, Demi Moore, Judd Nelson, Ally Sheedy, Andrew McCarthy, Andie MacDowell and Mare Winningham, the film earned mostly mixed reviews from critics upon its initial release. However, it became a massive box office success, with mainstream viewers quickly establishing it as a cult favorite of the 1980s.

Lowe’s news comes after years of fan speculation regarding the fate of St. Elmo’s Fire‘s sequel. Earlier in the movie’s development, Lowe told Entertainment Tonight that he had “met with the studio” and had been “talking about doing [a sequel] for about four months.”

“But it’s very, very, very, very, very early stages,” Lowe clarified. “So we will see.”

Humorously, Lowe also shared more sensitive information about his past movie career aside from the news about St. Elmo’s Fire sequel. Speaking with the show’s host, Lowe revealed details about the best of his many on-screen kisses.

“I told you I wasn’t gonna plead the fifth. It’s Nastassja Kinski,” Lowe admitted.

Co-starring with Lowe on the 1984 romantic comedy The Hotel New Hampshire, Lowe noted that Kinski’s attractive beauty made him nervous when it came to their on-screen kiss

“At that moment in time, she was probably the most beautiful woman I certainly had ever seen,” Lowe sweetly admitted. “I was definitely scared. I was very, very scared.”

John Goodman and his wife, Anna Beth Goodman, look so in love on the red carpet at the latest premiere of Digger.

Goodman, 74, rose to fame opposite Roseanne Barr on Roseanne, in which he played the beloved husband and dad, Dan Conner. The show went down in history as a comedy classic, depicting the daily life of a working-class family. But Goodman also found tremendous success in the film world with classics like The Big Lebowski. Now back in action in the new Alejandro G. Iñárritu film Digger alongside Tom Cruise, Goodman hit the latest premiere of the film alongside his wife, Anna Beth, at Directors Village in Los Angeles. Snuggling up to the blonde beauty on the red carpet, Goodman, who has dropped 200 pounds in recent years, looks incredibly happy.

Amy Sussman / Getty Images

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Who is John Goodman’s Wife, Anna Beth Goodman?

While Goodman may be based in Hollywood, he spends a tremendous amount of time in New Orleans. That’s where he met and fell in love with his wife, Anna Beth.

Years ago, Goodman told Entertainment Weekly that his and Anna Beth’s love story began at a party in a bar, where she approached him.

“I thought, ‘What could this lovely young woman possibly want with me?’ ” he told the publication. However, it was true love, and the duo married in 1989. Together, they have a daughter, Molly, who was born the following year.

What’s Next for John Goodman?

Goodman isn’t slowing down anytime soon. Earlier this week, Deadline reported that the TV icon has joined the Season 3 cast of HBO’s The Last of Us. Based on the award-winning Naughty Dog video game, The Last of Us earned praise when it first debuted, depicting life 20 years after modern civilization has been destroyed. Starring Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey in season 1, the series depicted their struggle for survival. If you missed seasons 1 and 2 of the hit show, check out the original trailer below. Be sure to catch up before Goodman hits the screen!

Related: John Goodman’s 200-Pound Weight Loss Is on Full Display in a Sharp Tuxedo

When it comes to the TV show with nine lives, Futurama is one that stands out. Originally airing on Fox, it was canceled, revived by Comedy Central, canceled again, and then was picked up by Hulu.

Is this the end of the road? Futurama Season 14 came to an end in September 2026, and there is no new season confirmed just yet. The Matt Groening series even delivered another season finale that worked as a series finale, just in case.

When speaking with Variety, Groening offered hope for fans of the sci-fi comedy. He made it clear, “They can put us in a coffin. They can nail the lid shut, but they can’t bury us. We will rise again. I’m not too worried.”

That statement refers to the number of times Futurama has already been canceled. After initially premiering on Fox in 1999, the show was canceled in 2003. It was then revived by Comedy Central in 2008, and after a few years, it was canceled again before Hulu rebooted the series in 2023.

It’s now Hulu that has decided enough is enough. At least, for now. It’s not all bad news, because while there isn’t a new season, there are specials still to come. Futurama fans were treated to the news during San Diego Comic Con that there would be three specials, which have been dubbed “XXXL-Sized,” and they’re set to start in 2027 with a Christmas installment.

Each episode can be a movie, and it allows Groening and his team more time to create more shenanigans for the characters. Groening shared, “It’s just fun to tell a bigger story, but also take the time to breathe a little bit.”

Other than the Christmas special, there are no clues as to what the next two specials will cover. Nor is there an idea of a time frame. However, it’s something to look forward to, and then by the end of all that, there’s a chance that Futurama will be saved again and another full season will be ordered. If not, it’s yet another series finale — this would mark the seventh season finale that could work as a series finale, so there are two more lives left, right?

Fans who remember Robot Santa will be happy to hear that he is the focus for the Christmas special. He has appeared since the second season, and it was a controversial character choice at the time, as he believed everyone was naughty and needed killing. At first, Futurama writers were told they were ruining the holiday, but it’s now viewed as all good fun, and it’s time for an entire special.

Obsession has taken the film world by storm, breaking several box office records, most notably becoming the highest-grossing film ever made for under $1 million.

Directed by Milk & Serial‘s Curry Barker, the twisty horror film is also Focus Features’ highest-grossing movie of all time and the highest-grossing festival acquisition, beating The Blair Witch Project.

Related: 17 Years Ago, This Found Footage Horror Movie Became the Most Profitable Film of All Time

Obsession has earned over $519 million at the global box office this year, becoming the highest-grossing horror movie of the year so far.

But all of its success in theaters almost never came to be, with Netflix initially interested in purchasing the film when it screened at Toronto International Film Festival in September 2025.

Speaking on the Q With Tom Power podcast, Barker said: “I called my manager. He’s like, ‘Dude, everybody’s putting in a bid for this thing.’ At this time, I’m still thinking maybe small theatrical release.

“Maybe they just want to acquire it; and also, as a director, I’m thinking, I’m scared of, ‘Are they going to want to change my movie? Are they going to want to take out certain parts that I like?'”

He continued: “I think Netflix was in the conversation at one point. They put in an offer to just put it straight on Netflix. All of these conversations started.”

Obsession follows the story of Bear (Michael Johnston), a socially awkward music store employee who is desperately in love with his co-worker and friend, Nikki (Inde Navarette).

He is too scared to admit his feelings directly to her, but desperate for her affection, he snaps a supernatural One Wish Willow charm and wishes for Nikki to love him more than anyone else in the world, a wish that quickly backfires.

Obsession proved a hit with viewers worldwide, praised for its hair-raising performances from Navarette and Johnston, its terrifying scares, and how it navigates its themes of loss of agency and entitlement.

It holds a 93% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with the critics’ consensus reading: “Taking an icky conceit and twisting it to deviously crowd-pleasing ends, Obsession is dauntingly disturbing while also skillfully amusing and thrilling.”

The audience says: “We’re obsessed with Inde Navarrette in Obsession, a creatively grotesque — and at times darkly funny — horror film that cements Curry Barker as a filmmaker to watch.”

Since stunning fans with her performance as Nikki, Navarette has since been cast as Rogue in an untitled X-Men film set in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.