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A house owned by Glee star Dianna Agron has hit the market.

The home, located in the Hollywood Hills neighborhood in Los Angeles, has hit the market for $2.699 million. Agron originally bought the residence in 2012 for $1.05 million, then sold the home after living there for four years for $1.915 million.

The 2,494-square-foot home includes a detached guest house, a swimming pool, a sunroom, marble counters in the kitchen, an attic and multiple renovations.

Aerial shot of the Hollywood Hills in Los Angeles, California on a sunny day.

Halbergam via Getty Images

Agron decided to sell the home in 2016 after Glee ended. The American actress, now 40, relocated to New York City and spent ten years working on independent films such as Novitiate and Shiva Baby, before moving to Paris in 2025.

When Agron first moved to LA, her living situation was not as glamorous as this 1920s Hollywood home. She first moved to the City of Angels in 2005 when she was just 18 years old in a small one-bedroom apartment in a rough neighborhood in the city. She told Interview Magazine that one SWAT was once in their building looking for a schizophrenic person yelling “He’s going to kill me! He’s going to kill me!” while she was coming home from a dance class. Eventually, she moved into a loft with two of her best friends in Los Feliz. In addition, Agron briefly lived with her Glee co-star Lea Michelle for seven months when her acting hours weren’t aligned with her former roommates.

“Going from sharing a one-bedroom place to living in a loft of two people [to] moving in a house to me having my own place by myself kind of mirrored my career,” Agron told the magazine. “Small steps to bigger, to bigger, to now having a steady job.”

Agron started her career as a dancer before transitioning into acting, having small roles in various TV shows such as Shark, Close to Home, Drake & Josh and more, before her breakout role as Quinn Fabray in Glee from 2009 to 2015. The American juke box musical-comedy series was broadcasted for Fox and followed the members of the fictional William McKinley High School’s show choir group.

Quinn is the cheerleading captain of the high school and originally joined the Glee club to spy on her boyfriend Finn Hudson (Cory Monteith) and eventually becomes a spy for her coach Sue Sylvester (Jane Lynch), but ends up getting kicked off the cheer squad after becoming pregnant. Originally supposed to be the typical “Queen Bee” character, she ends up befriending many of the Glee members throughout the show.

Cory Monteith, actresses Lea Michele, and Dianna Agron attend the celebration of Glee’s Golden Globe nominations with InStyle and 20th Century Fox held at Sunset Tower on January 9, 2010 in West Hollywood, California.

Michael Buckner/Getty Images for InStyle

As Agron’s character was appearing less frequently on Glee, she took on many roles in various movies. She shifted her career towards more independent films, directing and live music performances.

Today, Agron resides in Paris, but frequently returns to New York City to perform a singing residency at the Cafe Carlyle. She also continues to act, and joined the fifth season of the HBO’s Industry, a financial drama series.

Her prior residence in Los Angeles is on sale for $2.699 million.

Related: Nick Lachey sold his Tarzana house for $6.3 million in 2022, bought it back from Naomi Osaka for just under $8 million, and now wants $8.2 million

If you’re on the hunt for simple, affordable home and kitchen upgrades as we transition to fall, look no further than your local Hobby Lobby. It’s here where you can count on discovering solutions to a wide range of everyday needs, along with a brand-new home collection from Korie Robertson, star of Duck Dynasty.

Our favorite pick this week? A stunning little tabletop upgrade known as the Kinkeeping Salt & Pepper Shakers With Scalloped Wood Tray. Retailing for just $10.99, this convenient 3-piece set adds a rustic touch to any fall tablescape, one that looks just as good on the table as it does sitting on the kitchen counter between meals.

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Kinkeeping Salt & Pepper Shakers With Scalloped Wood Tray, $10.99 at Hobby Lobby

Hobby Lobby

No matter what you’re cooking, a bit of seasoning is always in order. And while your cabinet is likely already filled with a variety of dried herbs and spices, having salt and pepper always within reach is non-negotiable in any kitchen. Even better when you have a stylish yet convenient way to store and dispense them, which is where the Kinkeeping Salt & Pepper Shakers With Scalloped Wood Tray comes in.

At $10.99, this three-piece shaker set makes for a naturally charming addition to your dining table, with two clear glass containers topped with round wooden lids sitting in a brown scalloped base. When not in use, the shakers neatly sit in their rustic home, which features a raised lip to keep them securely in place. Made from durable MDF and glass, the set serves as a practical yet stylish way to keep seasonings always within reach, whether they’re kept together in the base or scattered across the table.

Related: Shoppers ‘Love Love Love’ Hobby Lobby’s $13 2-Tier Organizer

From the Mind of One of the Stars of Duck Dynasty

Hobby Lobby

Part of a larger lineup co-created by Korie Robertson, star of Duck Dynasty, this shaker set is a perfect example of the Kinkeeping collection’s warm and welcoming appeal. Designed to offer simple ways to bring out the best of your space while creating meaningful moments at home, this three-piece set serves as a reminder that a little goes a long way. More importantly, it shows that thoughtful design can transform the space around it without costing an arm and a leg.

“I love the color of wood and the detail and design,” one fan raved in a review. “With the tray, the shakers are easy to move from the counter to table and back,” they added, “they hold more salt and pepper than my last ones did, too.”

Speaking of sizes, each shaker measures 3.88 inches tall and 2.25 inches in diameter, while the scalloped base stands 0.69 inches tall, 5.63 inches wide and 2.25 inches deep. Both shakers are food-safe and can be filled with salt and pepper, while other seasonings may also work as long as their grains can fit through the lid’s perforated holes.

Don’t wait too long to snatch this stylish set up for yourself. Its $11 price tag and rustic appearance are already reason enough; however, it’s only a matter of time before shoppers catch on to this stunning home and kitchen collection. While you’re at it, check out the Kinkeeping Reactive Glaze Ribbed Stoneware Mug and Kinkeeping Clear Embossed Duck Drinking Glasses.

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

Swifties are as eagle-eyed as ever, and a minor missing detail from one of the music videos featured during Taylor Swift’s VMAs director montage has sent them spiraling back down the rabbit hole for the umpteenth time.

Before accepting the first-ever Artist Director Honors award, which recognizes those who push creative boundaries behind the camera, a video montage showing off several clips from the music videos she’s directed, as well as clips of her and the actors featured in her music videos talking about her creative process, played.

It included a very important scene from her first completely self-directed music video, “The Man,” which showed her first six albums, which, at the time, were owned by her original record label, Big Machine Records, spray-painted as graffiti on a subway wall.

However, in the clip featured in the montage, the space that featured her sixth album, reputation, was blank.

You know what they say — the superstar never does anything without intention, but this particular difference has fans wondering if her sixth album was removed from the clip on purpose, or if it was more of an error in the montage’s editing process, potentially pulling a behind-the-scenes clip rather than frames from the finalized music video.

Fans have noticed that “reputation” was removed from “The Man” music video in Taylor Swift’s VMAs director montage. pic.twitter.com/8hOnBcV4vT

— Taylor Swift Updates+ (@chartstswifty) September 28, 2026

If it was left out on purpose, of course, it leaves us all to wonder: What does it mean?

One suggested that it “means her Reputation was returned to her, so TV [or ‘Taylor’s Version’] is incoming.” Swift, of course, began rerecording her first six albums in order to own her life’s work, but after she was finally able to purchase her masters, she admitted that she struggled to rerecord reputation, finding it to be already pretty close to perfect. She heavily implied that there never would be a Taylor’s Version of the original album, but didn’t write off the idea of releasing its vault tracks, or songs written for it that didn’t make the final cut.

Someone else thought that might be exactly what it meant, suggesting it was removed because “she won’t be re-recording it like she originally planned to.”

“I suspect to say it will never be a TV but may give a deluxe version when the anniversary comes,” another agreed.

Others suspected the clip chosen was simply a production grab that hadn’t had the spray paint added in yet.

“Probably because it’s cgi added in post production,” one suggested, while another emphasized, “guys that is a bts video, the reputation was probably added in post production 🥲.”

It seems odd, though, that only reputation would have been added in post, since her other albums are still splashed across the wall in the latest clip.

It seems most likely to be a hint toward something to come, rather than an oversight, but only time will tell!

Related: Taylor Swift’s New Music Video Makes Its World Premiere at the MTV Video Music Awards

General Hospital fans have been worried that Charlotte Cassadine (Bluesy Burke) would be leaving the series for good after it was announced she would be going to boarding school. Still, now executive producer Frank Valentini has set the record straight and broken his silence on this matter once and for all.

Valentini spoke with Soap Opera Digest reporter Mara Levinsky, where he revealed that, despite Charlotte attending boarding school, there are no plans to write the character off permanently.

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The Daytime Emmy-winning executive producer revealed that Burke is attending college out of state and, as a result, asked to be written off the show to accommodate her school schedule.

The soap plans to bring Burke back during her off periods, with episodes set to be filmed around her holidays and school breaks.

Fans React

Fans took to social media to share their reaction to the news of Charlotte leaving, and the show keeping the door open for Bluesy to return in the future.

One fan shared how frustrated they were that Charlotte is leaving as she fits perfectly on the show, writing, “I know the actress playing Charlotte is going to school on the East Coast but tbh I don’t want her gone because she’s sadly the closest thing we have to a Cassadine really being a Cassadine and shake things up. Hell she’s the only one Spencer-ing too.”

A second fan highlighted how good the good-bye scenes were between Burke and her on-screen mother, writing, “Alexa Havins needs to submit today’s Lulu and Charlotte scenes for next year’s Daytime Emmy Awards. Her and Bluesy killed it. Even the scene with Rocco at the end was really good”

A third viewer added how excited they were that the show was not recasting the part, sharing, “I’m so glad they’re holding the role for her! She’s been great as Charlotte.”

General Hospital airs weekdays on ABC and streams weeknights on Hulu and Disney+.

Some foods from the 1960s are impossible to mistake for anything else. We’re talking towering Jell-O molds, cocktail weenies on toothpicks and casseroles made with a can (or two) of condensed soup. Add the good dishes and a round of cocktails, and you had yourself a dinner party.

But not everything served back then screams 1960s today. Look past the gelatin creations and party snacks, and you’ll find food that never got packed away with the fondue pot. Some of it is still on restaurant menus, still comes out for the holidays and still feels fancy enough to serve when people are coming over.

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That made us wonder what a chef would actually bring back for dinner now. We asked Johnny Church, founding executive chef and director of food and beverage at Antithesis, an independent fine-dining restaurant in Colorado. Church has some major culinary cred: He’s a former Nevada Restaurant Association Culinarian of the Year and was named one of Vegas Magazine’s Top Five Private Chefs in Las Vegas.

Church didn’t have to dig too deep into the recipe box. His three choices have been around for decades, and he still thinks they’re worth making today. He also shared how he makes each one himself.

Grab the good china—we’re going back to the ’60s.

The 1960s Dinner Party Revival: Why These 3 Made the Cut

Diem.ph / Getty Images

For Church, the renewed interest in ’60s cooking makes sense, especially at a time when nostalgia is everywhere. “I think that some trends or fads come and go, but classics never die!” he says. “We also are in a cultural moment where everyone is obsessed with nostalgia, so I am not surprised that these retro recipes are having a revival.”

The decade also brought its own approach to entertaining. “The ’60s in particular were marked by convenient cooking techniques or ‘hacks’ which made pulling together dinner parties much easier,” Church says. And while some of the decade’s most recognizable foods might immediately come to mind, there was more happening at the dinner table.

“Of course, many think of the iconic Jell-O molds and casseroles from the era, but dining also became more international in the ’60s,” Church says. “You see that influence in the enduring popularity of dishes like French onion soup, oysters Rockefeller and beef Wellington.”

Those are the three classics Church says are still worth making today—and he has a few specific ideas for making each one especially good.

Recipe 1: French Onion Soup

martinrlee / Getty Images

French onion soup has plenty going for it on the comfort food front, but Church points specifically to its “savory depth of flavor” as part of what has kept the dish around. And while the ingredient list can look relatively simple, his version doesn’t cut corners.

“French onion is one of my favorites to cook as far as soups go!” Church says. “Great stock made overnight in the style of Lyon, France. My must-dos for this dish include sweating the onions instead of caramelizing them, using a nice red wine and sherry, and cheeses must be gruyère, Parmigiano Reggiano, and provolone.”

Church also has a smart trick for the bread. “Pro tip: Dice and make croutons instead of crostini,” he says. “They break up easier and give you a better cheese-to-bread and soup-to-bread ratio.”

In other words, don’t rush the foundation, and don’t be afraid to rethink the usual slice of bread on top. Those little choices can make each spoonful a better mix of broth, bread and cheese.

Recipe 2: Oysters Rockefeller

Jlende / Getty Images

Church points to the buttery sauce as one reason oysters Rockefeller still hold up today. His biggest tip for making it at home comes down to getting the topping right.

“For oysters Rockefeller, the trick is making a really good creamy bacon spinach, but you must use Pernod and white wine as the spirits,” Church says.

Pernod is an anise-flavored spirit, which gives the spinach mixture some licorice flavor and helps cut through its richness. The white wine does some of the same work by adding acidity. And Church isn’t suggesting either as an optional upgrade—he says both are a must.

Recipe 3: Beef Wellington

ICHEN HUNG / Getty Images

Beef Wellington isn’t exactly a weeknight dinner, and Church doesn’t pretend otherwise. “A beef Wellington is definitely a labor of love and takes two days to do it right,” he says. For Church, the payoff is the combination of tender beef, puff pastry and earthy mushroom duxelles.

His process starts with searing the filet and brushing it with Dijon. Next comes the mushroom duxelles, which Church cooks, purées and then dries completely in a low oven for several hours before chilling. “Wrap the filet with the duxelles, then prosciutto,” he says. “Roll tightly in plastic, and refrigerate overnight.”

The pastry waits until the next day. Church wraps the chilled filet tightly in puff pastry and plastic again to help set its shape. When it’s time to bake, he removes the plastic, transfers the Wellington to a parchment-lined sheet tray and brushes the pastry with egg wash.

Church recommends baking it at 400°F until the internal temperature reaches 130°F. Then comes one last important step before digging in: “Rest for 5 minutes, then slice and serve.”

Related: 10 Classic Betty Crocker Recipes Every Millennial Grew Up Eating

3 Best Tips and Tricks to Use From ’60s Cooking, According to a Chef

AzmanL / Getty Images

When asked which lessons from ’60s cooking are still worth using today, Church went straight to the fundamentals.

1. Get a good sear.

Whether you’re cooking fish or steak, Church says a good sear is crucial. “Pan-searing fish or steak is all about getting a great Maillard reaction,” he says. That browning is where a lot of the flavor comes from, so give the food a chance to develop some color rather than rushing it out of the pan.

2. Don’t waste what’s left in the pan.

Once the fish or steak comes out, Church doesn’t consider the pan finished. “Then one can build a simple pan sauce right in the same pan,” he says. Those browned bits left behind after searing can become the starting point for a flavorful sauce, while also saving you from reaching for another pan.

3. Finish with butter.

Church’s final tip might be the easiest one to get behind: Don’t skimp on the butter. He recommends finishing a pan sauce “with plenty of butter—especially a high-fat European-style butter.” His reasoning doesn’t need much elaboration: “Butter makes everything better!”

Final Thoughts

Consider this your excuse to throw a ’60s-inspired dinner party of your own. These recipes may be decades old, but there’s no reason to save them for a special occasion or leave them in the past. Pick one that sounds good, invite some friends and don’t be shy with the butter. Church would approve.

Source:

• Chef Johnny Church, founding executive chef and director of food and beverage at Antithesis.

Related: The Vintage Pyrex Fall Patterns That Are Suddenly Worth a Fortune

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Tired of looking at the clutter? If so, you may want to add some more storage options to your living space. The best storage solutions are those that seamlessly blend style and practicality, providing a designated space for scattered items while effortlessly perking up your home’s aesthetic. Walmart carries a ton of chic options, ranging from sideboards to freestanding cabinets, and the Aitjunz 5-Tier Bookcase is one of our favorite finds. 

Brimming with modern farmhouse charm, this bookcase will add major style points to your living room, bedroom, office, or kitchen, while helping you to declutter your space. It may look similar to expensive designer versions like those you’d find at Pottery Barn, but you can currently score it on sale for just $120! Normally retailing for $200, this bookcase is now $80 off in a dark walnut brown style. This bookcase is also available in cream oak style, which is now on sale for $160. 

Aitjunz 5-Tier Bookcase, From $120 (was $200) at Walmart

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at Walmart

Featuring three open shelves at the top, this bookcase offers plenty of space for you to display your most prized possessions. Your extensive book collections and curated decor pieces can have a proper home so they’ll no longer clutter your living space. Designed to maximize storage space, the middle shelf is adjustable. You can position it at three different heights to fit items of various sizes and minimize unused space. 

The lower section of this bookcase boasts a drawer and a two-tier storage cabinet. These concealed spaces will reduce visual clutter in your home and make it look more streamlined. The drawer is 28.2 inches wide and 4.5 inches tall, providing a generous amount of room for smaller items. If you want to keep the drawer organized, consider grabbing some storage bins so you can find everything with ease.

Hidden behind two sleek doors, the lower two shelves offer even more storage. You can store anything from linens and bedding to board games and crafts inside. The middle shelf is also adjustable between three heights. 

Aitjunz 5-Tier Bookcase, From $120 (was $200) at Walmart

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at Walmart

Just as pretty as it is practical, this bookcase will instantly elevate your living space. Featuring an exposed woodgrain surface, it nails the farmhouse aesthetic. It oozes rustic charm with a raw, natural vibe. However, the silhouette adds a modern touch, boasting curved corners and clean lines. 

Measuring about 32 inches wide, 16 inches deep, and 72 inches tall, this bookcase takes advantage of vertical space. Its slim profile makes it ideal for small spaces, as it won’t protrude too much. Made of engineered wood, this bookcase is sturdy and durable. Each fixed shelf and the drawer can hold up to 20 pounds, while the adjustable shelves hold up to 15 pounds. 

Walmart reviewers loved everything about this bookcase. “It’s incredibly spacious and provides plenty of room for books, decor, and office essentials,” a shopper said. “It looks very stylish and feels very sturdy and durable,” the same customer added.

Shop More Bookcases 

• Yocwo Fluted Arched Bookcase, From $181 (was $300) at Walmart
• Idealsoul Bookcase With Drawers and Charging Station, $125 (was $194) at Walmart
• Homfa 3-Tier Bookcase With 3 Drawers, From $120 (was $210) at Walmart

Related: Walmart’s Budget-Friendly 3-Tier Bathroom Shelf Adds Ample Storage to Cramped Bathrooms

If you want to properly show off your LEGO creations, unique trinkets, and keepsakes, don’t hesitate to grab the Aitjunz 5-Tier Bookcase at Walmart while it’s still on sale for as low as $120! 

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.

It’s been 24 years since audiences first fell for Melanie Carmichael and Jake Perry in Sweet Home Alabama, and stars Reese Witherspoon and Josh Lucas haven’t forgotten a moment. They both took to Instagram to mark the film’s anniversary in separate posts, sending fans down memory lane.

Witherspoon kicked things off with a post that captured her disbelief at how quickly the time has passed.

“How is it possible that Sweet Home Alabama came out 24 years ago today?!” she wrote.

The Oscar winner called the production unforgettable and described getting the role as “such a huge moment” in her career. She gave a shout-out to “the most brilliant actors: Patrick Dempsey, Josh Lucas, Candice Bergen, Melanie Lynskey, Jean Smart… and our wonderfully inspired writer/director, Andy Tennant.“

Witherspoon also shared how much it meant to her that Dolly Parton allowed a song on the film’s soundtrack. “It really touched my heart,” she wrote.

View this post on Instagram

She then turned the conversation over to fans, noting that people have stopped her on the street for years to tell her it’s their favorite of her films and asking, “What’s your favorite scene?”

Lucas, who played Jake, Melanie’s Southern husband and first love, was one of the first to respond. “By far the movie I’m always connected to. Gratefully. It’s a special film,” he replied.

He added that just days earlier, someone had told him they’ve watched it more than 100 times. “Have such deeply fond feelings for this film and the experience of making it…” he added. He also shared his own tribute, and it came with a surprising behind-the-scenes story.

“I thought I was so bad in my audition I called my agent to apologize for me,” he wrote. “Sending so much love to this whole great cast & crew!”

View this post on Instagram

Evidently, the casting directors saw something in Lucas that made him perfect for the role. The film’s fans couldn’t agree more, with one person even noting that they were so taken with his character, they named their son after him.

For a movie that’s now more than two decades old, the enduring affection from both its stars and its audience says a lot. Whether it’s your 5th viewing or your 105th, it seems Sweet Home Alabama still feels like home.

Kunal Nayyar is looking back on his time playing Dr. Raj Koothrappali on the hit CBS sitcom, The Big Bang Theory.

In an August 2026 appearance on The Big Bang Theory Podcast, Nayyar revisited a scene from the show’s fourth season, wherein Raj fantasizes that his best friend, Howard Wolowitz (Simon Helberg), is dying and gives his blessing for him to romantically pursue his then-girlfriend, Dr. Bernadette Rostenkowski-Wolowitz (Melissa Rauch). The daydream ends with Bernadette and Raj sharing a kiss.

Nayyar revealed that he was embarrassed by the scene, sharing his upset about Raj’s lack of loyalty towards Howard.

“What a bad friend. Oh my god,” said Nayyar with a laugh. “I just like, I’m brown-skinned, so you can’t see how red I am right now. But I feel quite embarrassed watching that. What a bad friend.”

During the podcast interview, Nayyar also shared his belief that Nayyar’s crush on Bernadette was the result of his loneliness and her initial kindness.

“Well, the thing about Bernadette was she was so warm towards him. This was before angry Bernadette. Remember she started getting angrier and angrier. This was like the warm, sweet, inviting Bernadette. And I think Raj, being in desperate need of intimacy, took the signals to mean something else,” said Nayyar while recording the Big Bang Theory Podcast episode.

Kunal Nayyar Shared His Thoughts About Raj and Howard’s Close Friendship

In the August 2026 The Big Bang Theory Podcast interview, Nayyar referenced that Raj and Howard had an extremely close friendship throughout the comedy’s 12-season run, which came to an end in 2019. He said he believed that the pair had a strictly platonic relationship, despite their friendship being “steeped in true innocent love.”

Nayyar then explained that his childhood friends have a closeness similar to Raj and Howard.

“We always hang out. And there’s a real intimacy in our friendship. And I think that’s what may have been misconstrued by the media as something else. But from my perspective, and at least from Raj’s perspective, it was just this real sweet innocent bromance,” said Nayyar.

Beyond the Gates: Hayley Hamilton (Marquita Goings) was caught trying to kill her husband Bill Hamilton (Timon Kyle Durrett), but despite having a stacked deck against her, Hayley had one final move, and fans cannot get enough of it.

On the September 28, 2026 episode of the CBS soap opera, Beyond the Gates, viewers watched as Hayley confronted her husband Bill in his hospital room, as he recovered from poison and its effects on his body.

During the confrontation, Hayley gave Bill an ultimatum: get the District Attorney to drop all of the charges and give her what she is “owed” from the prenup, or she will reveal Martin Richardson’s (Brandon Claybon) deep dark secret that he killed two racists in a sundown town to protect his grandfather Vernon Dupree (Clifton Davis).

Hayley explained that she learned about the secret when Vernon and Bill were talking about it in the house. Knowing that the information could come in handy one day, Hayley began recording conversations in their household and in Bill’s office.

Fans React “Episode 305” — Coverage of the CBS Original Series BEYOND THE GATES, scheduled to air on the CBS Television Network. Pictured: Marquita Goings as Hayley Lawson. Photo: Quantrell Colbert/CBS ©2026 CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Fans immediately took to social media as the episode was airing to give their commentary on the latest twist. One viewer, Ashley from The Gatekeepers Podcast shared her excitement for Goings performance, writing, “Marquita Goings is doing things for me 🔥,” along with a gif of Sabrina Carpenter.

Another fan commented on how excited they were with the recent story twist, adding, “Oh my girl was planning and plotting and getting everything she needed to ensure her payday. You go Hayley!”

A third fan added, “Listen, Hayley right now got me in my feels. #BeyondTheGates you know I give props when you’re doing something good, and this Bill/Hayley SL right now is good. Keep it up. Don’t [mess] this up now. You were on your big one today. Thanks, Hayley”

Viewers will have to stay tuned to see how the story unfolds, but one thing is for sure: there are plenty of twists and turns to come as new episodes of the series play out weekdays.

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Beyond the Gates airs weekdays on CBS and streams weeknights on Paramount+. Viewers can also catch up on Beyond the Gates from the beginning on Paramount+, Tubi, and Pluto’s dedicated 24/7 Beyond the Gates FAST channel.

Related: Is Hayley Leaving ‘Beyond the Gates’? Marquita Goings Teases Character’s Fate

Ben & Jerry’s is supporting civic engagement organizations with every waffle cone purchase.

The Burlington, VT. based ice cream company is bringing back “Waffle Lotta Good,” a limited-time fundraising program. For every waffle cone sold at participating Scoop Shops, $1 will be donated by the company. The program will run from September 28 to October 12, 2026.

Ben & Jerry’s announced in a press release that they have teamed up with organizations focused on “civic engagement and democracy-related initiatives in communities across the country.” They did not list any specific groups, but added that they are doing the fundraiser ahead of midterm elections to “help ensure that people have access to information and resources.”

“Grassroots organizing is the most powerful tool we have against the erosion of democracy,” says Ben & Jerry’s Social Mission Director, Carleen Pickard. “When customers buy a waffle cone, they are directly funding the community activists who build that power from the ground up; the people knocking on doors, registering voters, and ensuring that everyone has a voice in decisions that affect their lives. That is how democracy wins.”

The “Waffle Lotta Good” program has previously supported fundraising efforts for organizations including Migrant Justice and Black Voters Matter.

Ben & Jerry’s is not shy about political activism, even describing themselves as “an aspiring social justice company.” Their website includes an “activism” tab that includes links to register to vote and resources about organizations like the American Civil Liberties Union and NAACP.

Every late summer, you may start getting text messages from your local pharmacy reminding you to schedule your flu shot. But what is the best time to get a flu shot? Right away? Around the holidays? Timing your flu shot can actually help more than you might think.

“Timing matters because the flu vaccine doesn’t provide protection immediately,” says Dr. Scott Braunstein, MD, the chief medical officer at Sollis Health. “It can take about two weeks for your immune system to build a strong response, so ideally, you want to be vaccinated before flu activity begins increasing in your community.”

That said, the flu shot doesn’t provide lifelong protection (which is why you need to get one every year).

“The protection of the flu vaccine wanes with time, and you will have the most effective protection from the vaccine for about three to four months after receiving it,” explains Dr. Victoria C. Weston, MD, the associate chief medical officer for immediate care at Northwestern Medicine.

There’s been a ton of talk about vaccines lately, so Dr. Weston wants to clear a few things up: “The flu shot does not give you the flu, and it does not protect you from many other viruses that circulate in the winter months, such as gastrointestinal viruses—the ‘stomach flu’ or the common cold,” she explains.

Instead, she says that the flu shot helps the body’s immune system learn to recognize the virus and form antibodies. That way, you can fight off the infection more quickly, so you’re less likely to get sick at all (or become severely ill).

But when should you get the flu shot? Doctors are begging people to get the flu shot by this date.

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Get a Flu Shot by This Date, Doctors Say

Dr. Braunstein suggests getting your flu shot by the end of October. “For most people, September and October are generally the best months to get vaccinated,” Dr. Braunstein says. “That gives your immune system time to build protection before flu activity typically increases, without getting vaccinated unnecessarily early in the season.”

That said, he insists that “the end of October is a goal, not a hard deadline.” Dr. Weston feels the same way.

“Better late than never,” Dr. Weston says. “Even if you get vaccinated in November, for example, this is still better than not getting vaccinated at all…The flu virus can circulate into the springtime.”

Still, Dr. Weston says it’s best to try to time your flu shot so you have protection when peak season hits. Dr. Weston adds that you can find flu shots at most retailers, and your doctor may offer them at their office.

Related: Pharmacists Are Begging People To Stop Mixing These 2 Common Over-The-Counter Medications

When To Get a Flu Shot, Based on Health, Job and Age Status

Dr. David Cutler, MD, a board-certified family medicine physician at Providence Saint John’s Health Center who works in urgent care, says that your “best time to get a flu shot” can vary based on your age, health status and job. Dr. Cutler leans on the CDC’s recommendations and his clinical experience for certain special populations, including:

• Older adults (65+): Avoid July/August vaccination if possible and aim to receive a high-dose inactivated, recombinant or adjuvanted inactivated vaccine. “If one of those isn’t available, an age-appropriate flu vaccine should still be given rather than delaying vaccination,” Dr. Cutler explains.
• Babies and younger children (6 months–8 years) who have never had the flu shot: First-time flu shot recipients need two shots, spaced at least four weeks apart. “Those children should receive the first dose as soon as the vaccine is available, including July or August if necessary, so that the second dose can be given by the end of October,” Dr. Cutler says. 
• Pregnant people: Dr. Cutler says people in their first or second trimester in July, August, September or October can inch towards later dates. But people who are in their third trimester in July and August might want to roll up their sleeves earlier. “For women who are in their third trimester during July or August, early vaccination can be considered because maternal vaccination can help protect the newborn during the first months of life, when the infant is too young to be vaccinated,” Dr. Cutler says.  
• Healthcare providers: There’s no specific CDC guidance, so September or October is a good time for physicians, nurses and others working in healthcare settings. “For healthcare workers in hospitals and other clinical settings, local institutional requirements may impose an earlier deadline,” Dr. Cutler notes.
• Teachers, childcare workers and people who work closely with children: Again, the CDC doesn’t offer specific guidance here. So, September or October is appropriate. “The rationale is exposure: schools and childcare settings provide many opportunities for respiratory-virus transmission,” Dr. Cutler says. “Vaccination also reduces the chance of bringing influenza home to family members.”
• People with chronic conditions such as diabetes, asthma/COPD, cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, liver disease, neurologic disorders or immunocompromising conditions: September or October. “These conditions increase the risk of complications from influenza, so vaccination is particularly important,” Dr. Cutler stresses.

Related: Doctors Say These ’90s Health Tips Actually Hold up Today

3 Other Tips for Flu Season

Getting a flu shot (ideally by October) offers strong protection during peak season. Dr. Braunstein also suggests a few additional layers of protection. He shared three tips for getting through flu season feeling as well as possible.

1. Keep your home stocked for cold and flu season

You can’t cure the flu or the common cold, but you can make yourself more comfortable. Dr. Braunstein suggests having the basics, such as:

• A thermometer
• Tissues
• Hand sanitizer
• Age-appropriate fever and pain relievers
• Fluids or electrolyte drinks

“If someone does get sick, having those essentials on hand makes it easier to manage symptoms, monitor for changes, and avoid unnecessary trips out while contagious,” Dr. Braunstein tells Parade.

2. Focus on hand hygiene, cleaner air and frequently touched surfaces

All the things we talked about ad nauseam in March 2020—the early days of the pandemic—still apply in the fall of 2026.

“Wash your hands regularly, especially after being in public spaces and avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth when possible,” Dr. Braunstein says. “Regularly cleaning frequently touched surfaces is another reasonable precaution, particularly when someone in the household is sick.”

He adds that improving ventilation or using a HEPA air purifier can also reduce indoor exposure to viruses.

3. Have a plan in case someone gets sick

Sickness happens, but some proactive preparation can help you mitigate risk to the whole house if someone comes down with an illness, including the flu.

“If possible, designate an area where a sick family member can rest away from others and avoid sharing personal items like towels or drinking glasses,” Dr. Braunstein suggests. “Have a plan to promptly test an ill family member for flu, so that others can take appropriate precautions.”

It may be helpful to add “flu test kits” to your winter-readiness kit. Also, Dr. Braunstein recommends getting familiar with school, daycare, and workplace sick and leave policies. “Planning ahead makes it easier to limit exposure to others and get appropriate care quickly if symptoms become concerning,” he says.

Up Next:

Related: Experts Warn This Bathroom Surface Can Harbor Way More Germs Than You Realize

Sources:

• Dr. Scott Braunstein, MD, the chief medical officer at Sollis Health
• Dr. Victoria C. Weston, MD, the associate chief medical officer for immediate care at Northwestern Medicine
• Dr. David Cutler, MD, a board-certified family medicine physician at Providence Saint John’s Health Center, who works in urgent care.
• Interim Clinical Considerations for the Use of Seasonal Influenza Vaccines in the United States. CDC.

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.

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Who won Jeopardy today? Justin Robbins

Justin Robbins is the new champion, beating 2-day champ Nikolas Polsinelli by $1. Robbins took home a total of $20,001.

Who are the Jeopardy contestants today? Justin Robbins

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

Katie Bruns

Katie Bruns is a records and information professional from Dayton, Ohio.

Nikolas Polsinelli

Nikolas Polsinelli is a student from Winter Park, Florida.

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 “FORMER CURRENCIES“

The clue: “Introduced in 1663, this unit of currency got its name because the gold it was first minted with was from Africa’s west coast.”

The answer: “What is guinea?”

Robbins was in the lead at the end of the DJ round with $19,600, while Polsinelli trailed behind with $10,000 and Bruns with $5,400.

Both Robbins and Polsinelli answered FJ correctly, with everything coming down to the wagers. Polsinelli wagered $10,000, upping his total to $20,000 but falling just $1 short of Robbins’ total. Robbins added a wager of $401 for a total of $20,001, taking home the title of champion. Bruns got FJ incorrect, wagering nearly everything for a third-place total of $100. 

Robbins will be back on Tuesday for attempt number 2.

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

When is Jeopardy on next?

Jeopardy! will come back on Tuesday, September 29, 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

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We all know and love Martha Stewart for her impeccable taste in home goods. Between her elegant bedding, beautiful kitchen tools, and seasonal decorations, she’s practically written the book on homemaking. But did you know she’s also quite the fashion icon? Aside from her well-known Skechers collaboration, Martha has ventured into clothing and accessories, bringing her signature sense of style to pieces you can wear well beyond the kitchen.

Her jewelry collection is worth a closer look, especially if you’re a fan of classic or preppy aesthetics. Take the Martha Stewart Three-Strand Pearl and Chain Necklace at Amazon, which combines timeless pearls with a layered design that adds shine to everything from simple sweaters to holiday party dresses. And with the price currently down from $30 to just $22, thanks to a 27% discount, you can add it to your collection for under $25.

Martha Stewart Three-Strand Pearl and Chain Necklace, $22 (was $30) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at Amazon

The beauty of this necklace is that it does the layering for you, combining three distinct strands of iridescent white glass pearls and two styles of gold-tone chain: one with elongated links and another with a chunkier, interlocking design. Crafted from yellow gold-plated brass, the contrasting chains give the classic pearl necklace a more contemporary feel, while the 10-millimeter pearls add plenty of shine. At 18 inches long, it sits near the collarbone, with a lobster clasp and adjustable chain that make it easy to find a comfortable fit. And since all three strands are connected, you get a perfectly layered look without the hassle of untangling multiple necklaces every time you get dressed.

For fall, try pairing it with a cashmere sweater, tailored trousers, and loafers, or let the pearls peek out from beneath the collar of a crisp button-down. Come holiday party season, the combination would look particularly striking against a velvet dress or a satin blouse. It’s substantial enough to wear solo, so you can keep the rest of your jewelry simple with a pair of gold studs or small hoops.

Shop More Deals

• Martha Stewart Two-Strand Pearl and Gold Ball Necklace, $30 (was $40) at Amazon
• Martha Stewart Three Strand Pearl and Ball Necklace, $37 (was $50) at Amazon
• Martha Stewart Two Strand Pearl and Gold Ball Bracelet, $22 (was $30) at Amazon

It also arrives ready for gifting, complete with a pale pink Martha Stewart-branded box and matching drawstring storage pouch. Whether you’re shopping for a birthday, putting together a holiday gift, or treating yourself to a new accessory ahead of party season, the presentation makes it feel special.

Shoppers shared their thoughts on this “elegant statement piece” in the reviews section, calling the design “gorgeous” and “bold.” One customer wrote that “it looks luxe and high-end.”

Related: Martha Stewart’s Chic $28 5-Piece Drawer Bins Set Is Made for Fall Organization

This is one deal worth clutching your pearls over. Shop the Martha Stewart Three-Strand Pearl and Chain Necklace for $22 at Amazon while it’s 27% off!

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.

It’s time to transport back 20 years, when the hard-rock subgenre known as metal was skyrocketing in popularity.

Slipknot was amongst the wave, having launched in 1995 and going from an underground phenomenon into a global heavy metal juggernaut during the 2000s.

And now, the Grammy-winning outfit is going back on tour next year — not just in the U.S. but across the world as well.

Slipknot already promoted its (sic)est Stadium Tour via multiple Instagram posts on Monday, September 28. “NORTH AMERICA 2027: (sic)est Stadium Tour with special guests @bringmethehorizon,” reads the caption of one of the posts. “Tickets & VIP on-sale Friday, October 2. Pre-sale begins tomorrow at 10am. Sign up to receive your unique pre-sale code now at slipknot1.com.”

Check out the breakdown of U.S. stops set for next summer below.

View this post on Instagram

Fans have already flooded the post’s comments section, some of whom sound stoked. “THIS LINEUP SO GOOD IM GONNA THROW UP,” wrote one Instagram user, while another person simply commented, “Let’s goooo! 🔥🔥🔥”

The tour will launch July 3 at London’s Wembley Stadium, then hitting SoFi Stadium on August 13 with special guests Bring Me The Horizon and Loathe.

In the meantime, the Los Angeles-area venue is hosting a Stadium Tour Launch experience on Monday, where fans can grab whichever tickets they’d like for each respective show before the rest of the world — ahead of all presales and general on sale to the public. Learn more about today’s event from Slipknot’s recent Instagram post here.

Slipknot Is Back With a Vengeance

Earlier this month, the masked hellraisers shocked fans out of the blue with their latest single “Arsenal.”

A far cry from their last album The End, So Far‘s opener “Adderall,” the band’s experimental phase appears to have taken a back seat as vocalist Corey Taylor is back in full-throated scream mode before ending with a “Psychosocial”-esque pummeling finish. Find out more here.

 Actress Dakota Johnson is opening up about attending Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce‘s July 3rd wedding, held at New York City’s Madison Square Garden.

During a September 28 interview on BBC Radio 1, Johnson shared that the nuptials and ceremony were very much aligned with Swift’s personal aesthetic.

“It was so like everything she’s dreamed of. It just felt so completely her,” said the Verity star.

Johnson was then asked if she believed Swift would ever publicly release photos taken at the wedding.

“No,” said Johnson during the BBC Radio 1 interview.

Taylor Swift Fans Weighed in on Dakota Johnson’s Comment

In a Reddit thread on a subreddit dedicated to Swift, several fans weighed in on Johnson’s comment regarding her belief that the public will never see photos from the wedding. A majority of commenters wrote that they understood Swift’s desire to keep her wedding private, as it would invite criticism.

“Honestly, good. I would hate to have an army of strangers who pick apart my every move with the worst intentions to dunk on my wedding pictures. It seems like the Madison square garden of it all ended up working out for them,” wrote a commenter. “That being said, it wouldnt shock me if there was an anniversary post or something next year or she used something for album artwork one day. I think we’ll see a glimpse at some point.”

“Idk I think she would love to share with the actual fans of her, but unfortunately all the haters are tuned in as well so she doesnt want to give them the satisfaction. She can be as petty as anyone 😆,” added another.

“I’m glad they made this choice. Why should she release the pictures just for people to complain about her bangs and how she can’t even serve on her wedding day?” commented a different person.

“That makes me truly happy. If there’s one thing she should save for herself to keep it from the public reaction, that thing should be the wedding. If the photos are never released, though, I can still see her writing a song about it in the future,” shared a Reddit user.

Dakota Johnson Discussed Starring in Taylor Swift’s New Music Video

During her BBC Radio 1 interview, Johnson discussed starring in Swift’s music video for her new song, “Patient Zero,” off her The Life of a Showgirl: The Encore album. Swift debuted the music video at the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards, which aired on September 27.

Johnson explained that she and Swift, whom she described as “a genius person,” “are really good friends.” The actress said she jumped at the chance to be in the music video because she values their friendship and Swift’s artistic vision.

“If you talk about world-building, I think the inside of her mind is this miraculous intricate wonderland. And so she asked me if I would do this, and of course I’ll do anything with her. She’s the most fun,” said Johnson.

John Milkovisch had one very specific reason for turning his Houston home into a work of art: he was sick of mowing the lawn.

In 1968, the retired upholsterer for the Southern Pacific Railroad started inlaying marbles, rocks and metal pieces into concrete across his front and back yards in the Rice Military neighborhood, according to The Orange Show Center for Visionary Art, the nonprofit that now owns the property. Once the yard was fully paved over, Milkovisch turned to the house itself.

His material of choice was aluminum, specifically the aluminum in flattened beer cans. Over the next 18 years, the house at 222 Malone Street slowly disappeared under thousands of them.

Garlands cut from beer cans hung along the roofline, catching the wind and making the house “sing,” while also helping lower the family’s energy bills, according to Orange Show. By the time Milkovisch was done, more than 50,000 cans covered the property, a figure Orange Show credits to “Ripley’s Believe It or Not” and one that matches a separate, independent 2013 NPR report on the house.

Milkovisch wasn’t picky about brands, either. Asked once what his favorite beer was, his answer was simple: “Whatever’s on special.”

He also wasn’t shy about the reaction his house got from strangers. “It tickles me to watch people screech to a halt,” he once said. “They get embarrassed. Sometimes they drive around the block a couple of times. Later they come back with a car-load of friends.”

At a ribbon-cutting event for the property, former Houston Mayor Bill White praised what he called “the hard work of generating all those beer cans,” adding that “most people who take the lead in doing something truly innovative are considered a little bit crazy,” according to a 2008 New York Times profile of the house.

Milkovisch and his wife, Mary, who helped keep him stocked with cans, have both since passed away. The Orange Show Center for Visionary Art, a Houston nonprofit focused on folk and visionary art, acquired the house afterward and spent years documenting and restoring it before reopening it to the public for tours in 2008.

The nonprofit maintains the property today with help from neighborhood volunteers who show up for periodic cleanup and restoration days, and it still offers public tours of the house, though visitors are advised to check current hours directly with Orange Show before making the trip. It’s exactly the kind of only-in-America stop that regularly lands on lists of the country’s best roadside attractions.

A line inside the house, credited to Milkovisch himself and also reported in that same Times profile, sums up how he felt about the whole project: “They say every man should leave something to be remembered by. At least I accomplished that goal.”

Tom Brady sent his ex-wife, Gisele Bündchen, a not-very-nice gesture after she had a baby with her new husband, Joaquim Valente, according to a new book.

Lars Anderson’s biography of the seven-time Super Bowl champion Brady: An American Story and the Price of Greatness, details his life on and off the field.

After the supermodel welcomed her baby boy in February 2025, Brady sent his ex-wife a message via Instagram.

“Just over a month after the birth, Brady shared a photo of himself on Instagram — his preferred form of mass (and often cryptic) communication,” Anderson wrote, according to People.

He continued, “In the color photograph, Brady’s right arm is extended and a ball has spiraled out of his hand, silhouetted by the sunset’s golden glow. Underneath, Brady wrote: ‘True Love’ — ­ the verbatim phrase Gisele had repeatedly used to describe Brady’s relationship with football.”

Anderson claims the post had “no ambiguity,” according to those close to Brady. He wrote, “As one friend described it, that was ‘the softest middle finger.’”

Brady and Bündchen began seeing each other in 2006 after a blind date and were officially dating in 2007. They got engaged in January 2009 and married the following month. The pair divorced in October 2022 after 13 years of marriage. They have two children together: Benjamin, 16, and Vivian, 13.

Brady: An American Story and the Price of Greatness by Lars Anderson is set to be released on Tuesday, Sept. 29. 

There is no slowing down when it comes to Jack Reacher. The Alan Ritchson drama following the fan-favorite character has just landed its earliest renewal yet.

Even ahead of Reacher Season 4, fans knew that there was more to come. Prime Video saw the success it had, and it greenlit the fifth season long before the premiere date for Season 4 was even announced. Now, the series has landed its earliest renewal yet.

Reacher Season 6 is officially happening, and it comes while Season 5 continues to film in Toronto, Canada!

“Alan Ritchson is Jack Reacher — he’s delivered a performance that has captivated audiences around the world,” Amazon MGM Studios global TV chief Peter Friedlander said in a statement, according to Matt’s Inside Line. He also said, “What Lee Child has built and [showrunner] Nick Santora and his creative teams have brought to life is, simply, incredible.”

There’s no doubt that all of that is true. As soon as Ritchson was cast as Reacher, there were collective sighs of relief from the book fans. He has the build and size that scream a man who is going to be extremely difficult to take down. The first season made it clear that this was the adaptation that was worth waiting decades for, and the Nielsen figures have continued to prove that.

As soon as the first three episodes of Reacher Season 4 dropped on Prime Video, fans tuned in, and the show had 1.5 billion minutes viewed. It soared to the top and held steady for three out of the four measuring weeks. The only time it dropped was when Netflix’s Outer Banks and Beauty in the Black dropped, but Reacher reclaimed its spot the following week.

What is now in question is the book that the story will follow. The fifth season will adapt Child’s 20th Reacher novel, Make Me. He and his brother, Andrew Child, currently have 30 published books, and the 31st will be published on Oct. 20, 2026, meaning that there is still plenty of material to work with.

It’s rare that a series is able to see a heavy change of cast each season and still succeed. However, Reacher fans have always gone in knowing that each season will see a different cast, other than Ritchson’s titular character, although there is hope that Neagley and a few others will show back up now and then to help when the going gets tougher.

With Season 5 still in production, it’s not likely that Reacher Season 6 will premiere before 2028. Now, eyes are on whether Neagley, the recent spinoff, will get a second season.

There are plenty of reasons to keep a few cans of soup tucked away in the pantry. It’s inexpensive, lasts practically forever and can go from cupboard to steaming-hot bowl in less time than it takes to decide what you actually want for lunch. The trade-off, of course, is that it sometimes taste like it came straight from a can.

That doesn’t necessarily make it a bad meal. Grab some crackers, sprinkle a little cheese on top and you’ve got a perfectly respectable lunch. But canned soup also has a lot more potential than we tend to give it credit for, and making it taste close to homemade doesn’t even require dumping the contents of your pantry into the pot.

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There are countless canned-soup upgrades floating around, from stirring in cream and piling on cheese to adding spices, fresh herbs or whatever leftovers happen to be hanging out in the fridge. Any of those might make a bowl better, but according to the chefs we talked to, there’s one important step that should come before all of them.

To find out how the pros approach it, we turned to acclaimed chefs Melanie Underwood of Nourish & Gather and executive chef Debbie Gold of Chicago’s VU Rooftop. Both had plenty of ideas for adding flavor, improving texture and making a humble can of soup taste much closer to homemade. But before they start reaching for ingredients, there’s one surprisingly simple thing they do first. Here’s how to make canned soup better.

The Chef Secret to Better Canned Soup: Find Out What’s Missing

andresr / Getty Images

Before reaching for the spice cabinet or grabbing a handful of cheese, Underwood says there’s one thing you should always do first: Taste the soup.

After tasting, you can figure out what actually needs attention. Is it too thin? Too bland? Flat? Flavorless? Are the ingredients soft and mushy? The answer will determine what you should do next.

Gold takes the same approach. “First things first, find out what’s missing,” she says.

If the soup tastes watery, Underwood recommends simmering it uncovered on the stove to reduce the liquid and concentrate the flavor. You can even start with two cans and reduce the soup by half if you want to intensify the flavor without ending up with a smaller serving.

If it’s bland, Gold likes to start building flavor with aromatics. Sauté onion, garlic, celery, carrots or mushrooms before adding them to the pot. Spinach or cabbage can bring freshness and texture, while cumin, coriander, ginger, curry paste, harissa, gochujang or miso can quickly take a basic or boring soup in a more complex direction.

Underwood also has an unexpected trick for adding more savory depth: dried mushrooms. She rinses them, chops them while they’re still dry and adds about a tablespoon to a small can of soup “because they really make the flavor intense.”

But what if the soup isn’t necessarily bland and just tastes a little flat? That’s when both chefs turn to a classic restaurant technique.

Related: We Asked 4 Chefs Their Favorite Canned Soup, and Their Answers Will Inspire Dinner Tonight

The ‘Acid and Fat’ Finish That Makes Canned Soup Taste Better

nicoletaionescu / Getty Images

Sometimes your soup doesn’t need more seasoning. It needs balance.

“When a dish tastes flat, sometimes it just needs contrast rather than more spices,” Gold says.

That’s where an acid-and-fat finish comes in. Underwood describes it as adding something acidic, something fatty or both after the soup has been heated. Acid brings brightness, while fat contributes richness and body.

For acid, that could mean a squeeze of fresh lemon, a splash of vinegar or even soy sauce. Underwood particularly likes sherry vinegar because it pairs well with many different kinds of soup.

For the fat side of the equation, butter, heavy cream, coconut milk, grated Parmesan or a drizzle of good olive oil can all work, depending on the soup. Gold points out that there’s a reason chefs frequently finish sauces with butter and a splash of lemon juice or vinegar. “The butter makes it silky; the acid keeps it from feeling too dense,” she says.

The technique works at home with a $1.99 can of soup the same way it does in a professional kitchen.

Why Acid Helps Fix That ‘Tinny’ Canned-Soup Taste

Robert Nickelsberg / Getty Images

If you’ve ever opened canned soup and noticed a slightly metallic or “tinny” taste, a little acid may help there too.

It isn’t because the lemon juice or vinegar is somehow removing the metallic flavor from the soup. Instead, Underwood says acidity changes our sensory perception of the other flavors. “Tartness brightens the overall flavor and suppresses the metallic taste that we perceive,” she says.

Gold explains that acid “changes the way our palate experiences the other flavors in the dish. It adds brightness and contrast, so instead of that tinny note being the first thing you notice, the flavors around it become more pronounced.”

So, you’re not necessarily eliminating that flavor. You’re changing the balance of the soup so your palate doesn’t notice it as much. And considering all it takes is a squeeze of lemon or splash of vinegar, it’s an easy fix worth trying before you start adding more salt or seasoning.

Related: Not Chicken Noodle or Tomato, This Old-Fashioned Soup Is a Celebrity Chef’s Favorite—and It Has a Secret Ingredient

The Texture Fix: Stop Settling for Mushy Soup

RuslanDashinsky / Getty Images

Flavor isn’t the only thing that can give away canned soup.

“One of the most common problems with canned soups is that the ingredients get very soft and mushy,” Underwood says. Her solution is to add ingredients with more structure, such as beans or frozen vegetables, so every bite doesn’t have the same soft texture.

Gold also recommends thinking about mouthfeel. For a thin, broth-based soup, shredded chicken, sautéed mushrooms, greens, rice, pasta, beans or potatoes can add substance. If you’re working with a creamy soup, cream, coconut milk, puréed vegetables or even a spoonful of beans can give it more body.

Then, consider adding some crunch. Toasted breadcrumbs, crispy onions, nuts, seeds, croutons or tortilla chips can provide an entirely different texture from the soft ingredients already in the can.

Underwood has another smart solution for one of the biggest canned-soup texture offenders: Skip canned chicken noodle and chicken and rice soup altogether. Instead, she recommends buying plain chicken soup and cooking your own noodles or rice separately. Stir them in when you’re ready to serve, and you get all the convenience of canned soup without noodles or rice that have spent months soaking in broth.

How To Upgrade 3 Classic Canned Soups

Once you know what you’re trying to fix, upgrading canned soup becomes a lot easier. And while you can use the chefs’ advice on just about anything in the soup aisle, these three classics give you plenty of room to play.

1. Tomato Soup

Al Drago / Getty Images

Tomato soup may be one of the easiest canned soups to make your own.

Underwood suggests adding heavy cream, coconut milk or even a little cream cheese if you want to make it richer. If you’re looking for heat instead, stir in a finely chopped chipotle pepper.

Gold likes adding sautéed garlic, spinach, Parmesan and fresh basil to tomato-based soups, along with a drizzle of good extra-virgin olive oil.

Can’t imagine a bowl of tomato soup without a grilled cheese sandwich? Underwood has a solution. Cut the sandwich into bite-sized pieces and turn it into grilled cheese croutons. You get that familiar pairing and crunchy texture in every spoonful.

2. Black Bean Soup

WRS Photos / Getty Images

A basic can of black bean soup can become a much more substantial meal with only a few additions.

Underwood likes to add lime, hot sauce, rice and corn, then finish the bowl with avocado, cilantro or sour cream. Cumin or coriander can push the flavors even further, while tortilla chips or another crunchy topping can provide some welcome contrast to the soft beans.

It’s also a good example of why tasting first matters. You don’t necessarily need all of those additions. Pick what the soup is missing and build from there.

3. Chicken Soup

Roberto Machado Noa / Getty Images

Gold suggests turning a broth-based soup into a more substantial meal with fresh vegetables, greens, shredded chicken, beans or even a soft-boiled egg.

“Adding in lemon juice and Parmesan are an excellent way to finish” Underwood says, which conveniently brings us right back to that acid-and-fat trick.

Finally, don’t overlook what’s happening on top of the bowl. Fresh herbs, sour cream or crème fraîche, croutons, toasted seeds, grated cheese or a drizzle of good olive oil can add flavor, texture and a little visual appeal.

Final Takeaways

Gold has an easy formula to remember when upgrading canned contents: “If a soup needs freshness, add herbs. If a soup needs richness, add oil or cream. If a soup needs texture, add something crispy or crunchy.”

Next time you pop open a can for dinner, let your taste buds guide you to what it needs. And at the very least, giving it an acid-and-fat finish will elevate your meal and make that humble can taste like you did some serious cooking.

Sources:

• Chef Debbie Gold is the executive chef at Chicago’s VU Rooftop and a James Beard Award winner for Best Chef: Midwest. Her career has included training at two-Michelin-starred restaurant, Michael Chabran in France; working under Charlie Trotter in Chicago; and serving as corporate and executive chef at The American Restaurant in Kansas City. She later helmed the now-closed 40 Sardines, which had earned a James Beard nomination for Best New Restaurant.
• Chef Melanie Underwood is the founder of Nourish & Gather and has spent three decades in the culinary industry. She taught for 24 years at New York City’s Institute of Culinary Education and has taught more than 50,000 students throughout her career. Underwood has worked at The Four Seasons Hotel and The Plaza Hotel and is the author of Making Artisan Cheesecake. Her work has also been featured on Food Network, ABC, NBC and CNN.

Related: Why ‘Funeral Potatoes’ Became America’s Favorite Potluck Dish, Chef Explains

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Walmart’s Fall Deals event is happening Oct. 5 through 11, which will run concurrently with Amazon Prime Big Deal Days and Target Circle Days, offering fan-favorite brands at some of the lowest prices you’ll see all year. If you’ve been waiting to catch Drew Barrymore’s home goods line on sale, now is the time. Ahead of this mega sales week, Walmart has slashed prices on the multihyphenate’s most popular kitchen essentials, including a sleek five-piece utensil set, just in time for fall and the upcoming holiday baking season.

The Beautiful by Drew Barrymore 5-Piece Kitchen Tool Set is now on sale for just $15 in a gorgeous neutral color called porcini taupe. Normally retailing for $20, this limited-time deal works out to just $3 per piece to equip your kitchen with everything needed to whip up scrumptious dishes. Sage green, lavender, and black sesame utensil sets remain at the usual $20 price, which still offers outstanding value at just $4 per tool. Made of matte silicone with gold metal accents, this set looks pretty and functions wonderfully, adding a bit of joy to every dish for less than you’d spend buying a takeout dinner.

Beautiful by Drew Barrymore 5-Piece Kitchen Tool Set, From $15 (was $20) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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Included in this five-piece set is a long-handled spoon, a slotted turner, a mini spatula, a whisk, and a basting brush. Each utensil is made from heat-resistant, BPA- and BPS-free silicone, which, excluding the metal-ended whisk, can withstand temperatures up to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. The entire set is dishwasher-safe for easy care. The tools also each feature a convenient slot on the end of each handle, so you can hang them on hooks for easy storage if you don’t want to clutter up your drawers.

Beautiful by Drew Barrymore 5-Piece Kitchen Tool Set, From $15 (was $20) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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Walmart shoppers were impressed with this “wonderful bundle of kitchen gadgets.” A reviewer said they looked “absolutely gorgeous” in a crock on their countertop. Another person shared that the five-piece set is “absolutely an amazing buy for the cost.” Noting the “heavy-duty” silicone and metal design, one customer said the slotted turner “flips eggs like a champ.”

Shop More Drew Barrymore Kitchen Deals

• Beautiful by Drew Barrymore 3-Piece Stoneware Nesting Mixing Bowl Set, $20 (was $33) at Walmart
• Beautiful by Drew Barrymore Stand Mixer, $65 (was $75) at Walmart
• Beautiful by Drew Barrymore 12-Piece Cookware Set, $99 (was $119) at Walmart

Related: Bake ‘Extra Joy’ Into Fall Desserts With Drew Barrymore’s $10 Stoneware Pie Plate

Snag the Beautiful by Drew Barrymore 5-Piece Kitchen Tool Set in porcini taupe for just $15. At a mere $3 per utensil, this is one Walmart deal you won’t want to miss!

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