Parade

Some songs are about love. Some are about history. And then there are those that manage to capture political change. The Scorpions’ 1990 power ballad, “Wind of Change,” is all three, and so much more.

A Cold War-era anthem-turned-global symbol of hope, the track became one of the best-selling singles of all time and was recently named in the top 20 of Ultimate Classic Rock’s greatest power ballads ever recorded. 

View this post on Instagram

“Unlike many of the songs on our list, which were built upon emotions, Scorpions’ ‘Wind of Change’ was built upon a movement,” UCR wrote. “The band was inspired to write the track after seeing firsthand the impact of the U.S.S.R.’s demise and the fall of the Berlin Wall.” 

Released in 1990 on the band’s Crazy World album and issued as a single in January 1991, the song captured a defining moment in modern history — the fall of the Berlin Wall and collapse of the Soviet Union. The Scorpions, a German hard rock band, became unexpectedly linked to the soundtrack of the Cold War’s end, inspired in part by a visit to Moscow that frontman and the song’s writer, Klaus Mein, still describes as transformative.    

“We were on this boat with all the bands, with MTV journalists, with Red Army soldiers,” he explained to Rolling Stone in 2015. “It was an inspiring moment for me. It was like the whole world was in that one boat talking the same language: music.”

The song became a major crossover hit in the U.S., debuting on the Billboard Hot 100 at No. 91 and eventually peaking at No. 4. Showing vigorous staying power, it enjoyed 16 weeks inside the Top 40 and became a staple of ’90s radio, solidifying its place among rock’s most influential ballads. But its legacy only got, um, stranger from there.

Despite repeated denials by Meine himself, a popular conspiracy theory grew legs. People genuinely believed the song had been secretly written by the Central Intelligence Agency as propaganda to help destabilize the Soviet bloc. The idea gained renewed attention decades later, when a podcast investigation explored how Western pop culture was used as a form of soft power during the era. 

“Soviet officials had long been nervous over the free expression that rock stood for, and how it might affect the Soviet youth,” Orwell Prize-winning U.S. journalist Patrick Radden Keefe told The Guardian in 2020 about the roots of his podcast. “The CIA saw rock music as a cultural weapon in the cold war. 'Wind of Change' was released a year after the fall of the Berlin Wall, and became this anthem for the end of communism and reunification of Germany. It had this soft-power message that the intelligence service wanted to promote.”

Still, the song’s impact is undeniable. With more than 14 million copies sold worldwide and more than 1 billion streams on Spotify, “Wind of Change” remains the best-selling single by a German artist — and one of the defining musical snapshots of the Cold War era. 

And to think, those guys considered cutting the iconic whistle that opens the song — the very sound that came to be its most recognizable moment of peace. Whew. 

Related: 1977 Yacht-Rock Ballad With Iconic Guitar Solo Became an Era-Defining No. 1 Hit

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

If you want to spruce up your patio, front porch, or deck before summer officially sets in, Walmart's latest home find is worth checking out. The top-rated Sixhome Outdoor Rug has a chic geometric pattern that will liven up any space, and it's now on sale for nearly 50% off in select styles. 

The popular black-and-white area rug is currently available for as low as $24, down from $46, in the 5-by-8-foot size. You can also shop it in five other colors, including black and beige, blue and white, orange and pink, blue and gray, and gray and teal, starting at $26 in the same size. If you're decorating a larger area, there are 12 bigger size options, so you'll have no issue finding one that fits your space. 

Sixhome Outdoor Reversible Rug, $24 (was $46) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Made of 100% polypropylene, the rug features an eye-catching boho geometric pattern that stands out no matter where you place it. The durable material is stain-resistant, waterproof, and UV-protected, with reinforced, heat-treated edges to prevent fraying or ripping. Its reversible design gives you two looks in one, allowing you to easily switch things up whenever you're craving a refresh. 

Designed to feel soft and breathable underfoot, this rug stays firmly in place on grass and decks without scratching or sliding. It's lightweight and portable, so you can effortlessly move it from place to place, and it's also super easy to maintain. Simply sweep or rinse off debris and dirt, and let it air dry to keep it looking like new. 

Related: Walmart's 'Super Soft' $49 Tufted 7-Piece Comforter Set Feels Like 'Silk' and Comes in 7 Colors

This shopper-loved rug has earned over 850 five-star ratings. Multiple reviewers praised the "pretty" and "vibrant" design, with one noting that it adds a "touch of elegance" to any outdoor space. Others also highlighted the durable, quick-drying material, calling it "easy to clean" and "perfect for patios."

Shop More Deals

• Ileading Boho Kitchen Rug Set, From $32 (was $50) at Walmart
• Deorab Outdoor Rug, $53 (was $110) at Walmart
• Rugking Front Door Mat, $15 (was $60) at Walmart

Give your outdoor space a stylish finishing touch with this gorgeous geometric area rug. It's chic, long-lasting, and available in six reversible patterns that will complement any deck or patio. Snag one while it's on sale for as low as $24 as Walmart. 

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

The View co-host Joy Behar has opened up about all the cosmetic work she has had done over the years- and one she hasn't.

“I tell everybody I have Botox. I do work on myself. I had Botox. I had [filler] to fill in,” she said on a recent episode of the “Behind the Table” podcast before elaborating that she "had Restylane to fill in certain spots on her face."

The TV personality admits that she has "to do things" to maintain her youthful appearance, explaining the goal is for “everybody thinks you look good because you’re naturally that good — you’re not.”

Behar further explained: "I’m pushing it because you know, on the list of aging and what you have to do? They say things like, of course you have to eat healthy, which I don’t, they say you have to exercise, which I don’t. I never do it. I hate it. I’d rather go to the dentist.”

There is one cosmetic procedure the 83-year-old insisted she has not undergone. “Everybody thinks I’ve had a facelift. I have not had a facelift,” she added.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MARCH 19: Joy Behar attends Joy Behar, Susan Lucci, Sherri Shepherd And Judy Gold In Conversation: My First Ex-Husband at 92NY on March 19, 2025 in New York City. (Photo by Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images)

Back in February, the host told PEOPLEabout her thoughts regarding people getting facelifts. "I have one friend who got a facelift when she was 30, and she wanted to be prettier. I never heard of such a thing at the time," she explained . "But remember the work in the '80s, you looked so strange. But I knew a lot of women who were addicted to plastic surgery," she told the outlet.

Instead of opting for invasive surgery, Joy thanks good genetics for her youthful looks. "I happen to have good skin. I inherited that from my mother. I don't really have a lot of wrinkles. And I'm lucky that I have a lot of hair. I do have a lot of hair; I never lost it."

Joy is less impressed when men undergo procedures to maintain their looks. The comedienne also shared her thoughts on men getting plastic surgery. "When they start with the Botox and the eyelid surgery and the hair dye, they look ridiculous. They're better off just aging gracefully. You have that advantage that people say, 'Oh, he has a distinguished look.'"

Dolly Parton has been the co-owner of the biggest ticketed tourist attraction in Tennessee, Dollywood, since 1986. The iconic theme park has live entertainment, dining areas, and plenty of rides.

However, Parton revealed that she isn’t a fan of riding the rides at her own park. "I used to get sick on the merry-go-round as a kid on the playground," she admitted in a speech she gave this March.

She went into more detail about her reasons for staying off the rides in a 2023 interview with Peachtree TV. “I don't like to ride the rides, everybody knows that about me," the country star said. "I have a tendency to have motion sickness. And then I'm a little bit claustrophobic. I don't like to be closed in. And I just think 'Well, I just have too much to lose.' My boobs could fly out, my hair could fall off. Any number of things could happen to me on those rides."

Related: An Iconic Sitcom Actress Will Be Starring as Betty Boop in a New Feature Film

When speaking about how she got involved in Dollywood in the first place, she told USA TODAY, “When I was growing up here in the Great Smoky Mountains, we used to come every now and then down to this area. When it was the county fair, we’d come to town, and I used to think if I make it big, if I get rich like I was dreaming I might, that I’d love to do something special, to come back home and build a park of my own. And I'm still dreaming and it's still coming true.”

She continued, “I feel like all the people here are my people, in this area. I even wrote a song, you know. ‘These are my mountains, my valleys. These are my rivers flowing like a song. These are my people.’ All these multicolored rainbows, these are my people. This is my home.”

The theme park is set to open its biggest attraction ever, called NightFlight Expedition, later this year. According to PEOPLE, the $50 million ride will be an indoor attraction that is both a water ride and a roller coaster. Although Parton usually avoids the rides, she admitted she is tempted to check out this one herself. "I usually don't ride the rides, but this one sounds so magical, I might just check that one out," she said when the ride was announced.

Attention lactose-intolerant cheese lovers: Kraft Natural Cheese is launching a lactose-free line.

The lineup includes three new cheeses, all made with dairy but without lactose. The new products include Mild Cheddar Shredded Cheese, Mozzarella Shredded Cheese, and Mozzarella String Cheese.

The shredded cheeses are packaged in resealable bags, while the string cheese is sold in the classic individual wrapped form, with 12 sticks per pouch.

According to the company, the shredded cheeses are made to melt easily and work well in recipes, such as pastas, wraps, salads, and baked potatoes. The cheese sticks are designed to be a quick on-the-go snack.

Kraft emphasized the launch was meant to provide more options for those with dietary restrictions.

“As consumer needs continue to evolve, we are focused on delivering products that make it easier for more people to enjoy the foods they love,” said DhritiBatra, Director of Kraft Natural Cheese at Lactalis Heritage Dairy, in a press release.  

The cheeses are made with added lactase, an enzyme that breaks down lactose. It is often found in lactose-free milk.

“Our Lactose-Free shreds and string cheese bring the same trusted taste and quality that Kraft Natural Cheese is known for, but now in a way that fits seamlessly into more lifestyles and everyday routines,” Batra added.

Although made without lactose, the new products are necessarily healthier.

Both the classic mozzarella string cheese and lactose-free version contain 80 calories per serving, while the lactose-free version has one extra gram of total fat (6g instead of 5g).

The two new versions of shredded cheese follow very similar nutritional values to their lactose counterparts, containing the same amount of total fat and calories as their lactose version.

The Kraft Natural Cheese Lactose-Free product line is available for purchase at select national retailers, with greater distribution expected in the following months.

It might sound crazy, but one of the most enduring country songs of all time never reached No. 1 on the charts.

Patsy Cline's career-defining hit, "Crazy," is not only considered the late country icon's signature song, but the smooth crossover hit has also made a lasting impact on the country music scene since it was recorded over 60 years ago.

But after its release in October 1961, "Crazy" never became a No. 1 hit, instead peaking at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs Chart in January 1962.

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

But despite never hitting No. 1, Cline's haunting, country-pop ballad has outlasted countless chart-toppers to become one of the defining recordings in the history of country music. The song is ranked at No. 3 on Rolling Stone's list of the 200 Greatest Country Songs of All Time, and earned a placement at No. 195 on the publication's list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time in any genre back in 2021.

Country fans seem to be in agreement with critics' consensus regarding Cline's signature song, which made the Opry's fan-voted list of the 100 Greatest Country Songs, announced in 2025.

"Crazy" was actually written by another country icon, Willie Nelson, who has previously said Cline's recording "almost didn't happen."

"It almost didn’t happen because Patsy, who recorded it in a Nashville studio, tried singing like me. Big mistake," Nelson wrote in his 2023 memoir Energy Follows Thought: The Stories Behind My Songs adding that he "sure as hell didn’t sound like an angel" on the demo.

"No one should ever try to follow my style of phrasing. Not that I don’t like my style. I do. I believe it’s natural, at least for me. But it’s offbeat," he wrote. "I tend to kick way back behind the beat or hurry up ahead of the beat."

Related: How Is This Rock 'n' Roll Icon Only No. 17 on Rolling Stone's Greatest Singers List?

Roger Daltrey, the iconic frontman of legendary rock band The Who, is heading back on the road this fall for a solo tour. The news arrived on May 12 via social media, eliciting an enthusiastic response from longtime rock fans.

The trek, which has been dubbed the A Great Night Out Tour, will travel to 18 major U.S. cities, commencing in Mesa, Arizona on August 23 and concluding in Medford, Massachusetts on September 29. As of now, no opening artists have been announced to join the rocker as support.

Daltrey's upcoming run will mark his first solo tour since his 2024 North American "Semi-Acoustic" outing. It falls right after a period of recovery following The Who's farewell tour, which concluded in October and was widely lauded by music critics. In the official press release, Daltrey discussed what the solo tour means to him, admitting that it is a welcome chance for him to play around with his vast musical catalog.

“After finishing The Who’s final tour of the U.S., it’s time for me as a solo artist to possibly do the same,” Daltrey stated. “I’ll be off the backing tracks and always searching for different soundscapes to present the songs. It’s a lot of fun and gives me the chance to have a Great Night Out.”

John Entwistle, Keith Moon, Roger Daltrey and Pete Townshend of the English rock group The Who wave to the audience after performing on stage at Wembley Empire Pool in London in October 1975.

Michael Putland/Getty Images

Roger Daltrey A Great Night Out Dates:
08/23 — Mesa, AZ — Mesa Arts Center
08/24 — Highland, CA — Yaamava’ Theater
08/26 — Las Vegas, NV — Encore Theater
08/28 — Las Vegas, NV — Encore Theater
08/29 — Las Vegas, NV — Encore Theater
09/01 — Santa Barbara, CA — Lobero Theater
09/02 — Saratoga, CA — The Mountain Winery
09/04 — Santa Rosa, CA — Luther Burbank Center for the Arts
09/05 — Reno, NV — Grand Theatre at The Grand Sierra Resort
09/09 — Nashville, TN — Ryman Auditorium
09/11 — New Buffalo, MI — Four Winds Casino
09/12 — New Lenox, IL — New Lenox Performing Arts Pavilion
09/15 — Milwaukee, WI — The Riverside Theater
09/17 — Lewiston, NY — Artpark
09/20 — Springfield, MA — The Big E
09/22 — Port Chester, NY — The Capitol Theatre
09/24 — Washington, DC — The Theater at MGM National Harbor
09/25 — Bensalem, PA — Parx Xcite Center
09/27 — New York, NY — The Town Hall
09/29 — Medford, MA — Chevalier Theatre

Tickets for A Great Night Out Tour are currently available for purchase on Ticketmaster.

Related: ’90s Metal Band Announces 2026 Tour Dates Amid Return to Stage

If we had a siren, we’d ring it for The Police, who just achieved another career milestone with their 1978 track “Roxanne.” The genre-defying single about ladies of the night on the streets of Paris just joined Spotify’s Billions Club, making it the oldest classic rock song to do so in this newest batch of hits.

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

The track becomes the band’s second song, after "Every Breath You Take" in 2021, to hit a billion streams, proving the English rock group composed of a teacher and two prog-rock mavericks still rocks all these decades later. 

Written by Sting and released in the spring of 1978, the lead single off The Police's debut studio album, Outlandos d’Amour, faced steep challenges right out of the gate. Not only did the song cause the BBC and radio stations in the U.S. to bristle at its provocative lyrics — a man begging a woman to leave sex work behind — but it was a reggae rock track in a new wave world.

No doubt about it “Roxanne” flopped.

“We were a bit embarrassed about 'Roxanne,'” drummer Andy Summers told Louder in 2023, “because this was the raging punk scene, where everything was at furious speed. And we had this kind of ballad. … It didn’t become a hit at first, but a few people noticed it.” 

Namely, American deejays in Austin and Boston, who played the song on heavy rotation.

"We didn’t have a record deal in the States, but because of 'Roxanne' and this heavy rotation in Boston, A&M in America came to see us," Summers shared. "They got it pretty quick and signed us to an American deal. And it all started to unfold quickly from there.”

Sure did. The Police played the now-iconic hit at their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2003 and are now celebrating a billion streams.

Congratulations to Sting, Stewart Copeland, and Andy Summers. And here’s to another bill!

Related: 1977 Yacht-Rock Ballad With Iconic Guitar Solo Became an Era-Defining No. 1 Hit

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

Parade and ShopHQ are both owned by the same parent company. Featured products are selected independently by the editorial team at Parade.

Chic bracelets that you can wear with everything make for the perfect accessory, but when you can stack them, it becomes a major style moment. Stacking jewelry like bracelets, necklaces, and rings, is a big trend right now, and it’s always a win when you can find pieces to layer without spending a fortune. The Toscana Italiana 18 Karat Gold Plated Beaded Bracelet is the perfect bracelet for just that. Its minimalist design makes it easy to wear alone or stacked with other bracelets, and it’s on sale for just $20 on ShopHQ. 

Toscana Italiana 18K Gold Plated Beaded Bracelet, $20 (was $120) at ShopHQ

Courtesy of ShopHQ

It’s marked down a whopping 83% from its original $120 price tag. So, whether you grab one or three, it won’t blow your budget. Plus, for  the next 12 hours, you can snag it with free shipping during ShopHQ's Flash Sale. Crafted in Italy, this stunning bronze bracelet has a beaded chain design topped with a luxe 18 Karat yellow gold plating that makes it look like fine jewelry.

It’s available in three lengths: small, which measures 7.25 inches, medium with a 7.75 inch length, and large, at 8.25 inches, which fits a wide variety of wrists and makes it perfect for gifts. The bracelet is also about 0.3 inches tall and wide, so it makes a statement, but won’t overpower an ensemble. It’s also lightweight, so you can wear it every day, and it comes complete with a lobster clasp that helps keep the bracelet secure.

Related: Surprise Your Graduate With a Stunning Diamond Jewelry Set, on Sale for $180

One shopper  raved about the bracelet, and wrote,“Love it, will buy again, recommend it to anyone.” Swooning over this accessory just makes sense. It will add a touch of glam to any outfit, and it’s a staple piece for your jewelry collection. While you can wear it with just about anything, we love it with linen matching sets and sundresses, or a crisp button-down top and jeans during the day for an elevated casual look. 

Shop More Deals

• Toscana Italiana 18K Gold Plated Polished Hinged Bangle Bracelet, $20 (was $165) at ShopHQ
• Toscana Italiana 18K Gold Plated Striped Bangle Bracelet, $20 (was $165) at ShopHQ
• Toscana Italiana 18K Gold Plated Beaded Magnetic Clasp Bracelet, $40 (was $100) at ShopHQ

This gorgeous 18 karat gold-plated bracelet is an incredible deal. Snag it while it’s just $20, and keep in mind the bracelet is in the clearance section, which makes it final sale. 

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.

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

Now that we’re in the midst of spring and quickly making our way to summer, it’s a great time to give your home’s outdoor space a little upgrade. If you’re looking to transform your patio into a relaxing and cozy retreat, you don’t necessarily have to go all out. Sometimes, the little things can make all the difference. Case in point: solar lanterns. Charming and magical, they have the power to instantly elevate the ambiance of your backyard. 

If that sounds like something you want to add to your patio, we've found several solar lanterns at Amazon that are worth a look. They’re all currently on sale for less than $25 and start at just $15! These lanterns are so stunning and gorgeous, you’ll want to keep them up all year long. And you can because they’re all weatherproof and waterproof, making them ideal for multi-season use. 

Jnaurb Frog Solar Lantern, $15 (was $25) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at Amazon

Doubling as an adorable piece of decor during the day, this metal solar lantern features a quirky frog design. The body acts as the lantern, and it’s adorned with a frog head, arms, and legs. It has a hollow interior and is plastered with dragonfly and floral cutouts all over the surface. The cutouts allow light to shine through and cast ethereal shadows all around, adding a warm and magical feel to your outdoor space.

This lantern has two different settings, including steady light and a flashing mode. When the light is set to the flashing mode, the lantern will also emit ambient sound effects that’ll make your backyard feel extra cozy. The solar panel only needs six to eight hours of direct sunlight to fully charge, and the light will glow for up to 10 hours at night. You can either set the lantern down on the frog’s feet or suspend it in the air using the top handle. 

Dellicasi Hummingbird Solar Lantern, $19 (was $30) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at Amazon

Oozing with cottagecore charm, this gorgeous solar lantern is also adorned with nature-inspired cutouts that capture a buzzy scene. When it gets dark outside, it’ll bring your space to life, casting shadows that showcase dainty hummingbirds fluttering around in a field of flowers. Depending on your preference, you can choose between a warm white light and a fading rainbow light that’ll add vibrant pops of color to your space. 

“It adds such a lovely touch to the garden during the day, and at night the colorful LED lights look magical,” one shopper said. “The hummingbird design is elegant and eye-catching without being over the top,” they added.

Related: Walmart’s 'Phenomenal' $21 Reversible Floral Outdoor Rug Adds Summery Resort Vibes to Any Patio

You can either hang this lantern up or set it down on a surface. If you place it on a table or the ground, the silhouette of the shadows will be sharper. However, if you prefer the shadows to cover a larger area, you can hang it up on a shepherd’s hook in your garden or from a hook on your porch or patio overhang. The underside of the lantern is also adorned with cutouts so you’ll be able to see the design at its full capacity if you dangle it off the ground.  

This lantern is made of durable metal and has a weathered bronze finish, giving it that vintage-inspired look. Be sure to keep it in direct sunlight for at least six hours so it can glow for 10 to 12 hours at night. 

Teresa’s Collections Hot Air Balloon Solar Lantern, From $22 (was $27) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at Amazon

This cute solar lantern is ideal for those who love all things whimsical and playful. Featuring a hot air balloon design filled with vibrant hues, this piece will elevate your backyard during the day and at night. The basket of the hot air balloon is equipped with an LED bulb that’ll stay lit for up to eight hours. It creates a flickering flame effect, mimicking the look of fire. “It actually looks like flames inside the balloon!” one shopper attested, adding that they “also love how pretty it is during the day.”

The top of the balloon is attached to three evenly spaced chains that all connect to a metal hook, designed so you can suspend it from overhangs, awnings, and shepherd’s hooks. Measuring 18 inches long with the chain included, this hot air balloon lantern will accent your space with an eccentric touch without looking overbearing. 

Note that this deal is only available for Amazon Prime members. If you’re not a Prime member, you can sign up here for a free 30-day trial! 

Shop More Deals 

• Toodour Solar Light Wind Chime, From $19 (was $25) at Amazon
• Vuees Fairy Solar Stake Light, $25 (was $40) at Amazon
• Nacome Solar Light Turtle Statue, $24 (was $40) at Amazon

If you’re looking for an effortless and affordable way to up the ambiance of your backyard, be sure to check out these three Amazon solar lanterns that are all under $25! 

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.

On this day 27 years ago, history was made at the 26th Annual Daytime Emmy Awards.

In an iconic moment that is still remembered today, soap legend Susan Lucci won her first Daytime Award for her role as Erica Kane on All My Children.

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

Lucci’s win came after a whopping 19 nominations during her nearly 30-year career at that point. The beloved soap star had lost 18 times, but the 19th time was a charm for the actress.

The Young and the Restless star Shemar Moore delivered the news as he presented the Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series. It has become one of the most memorable moments in soap history with Moore screaming, “The streak is over! Susan Lucci.”

Lucci burst into tears as she hugged her husband, Helmet Huber, before taking the stage to receive the award and the nearly two-minute standing ovation she so rightfully deserved. In the footage that Lucci posted on Instagram to mark this day, everyone in The Theater in Madison Square Garden in New York City was on their feet to celebrate Lucci’s win.

View this post on Instagram

Rosie O'Donnellcan be seen tearing up in the video, whileOprah cheers Lucci on as she appeared on stage for her acceptance speech.

“I truly never believed that this would happen. First of all, I want to thank each and every one of you in this room. This is a room full of such talented, hardworking people. And the fact that you have thought that my work was worthy of notice 19 times is something that I will treasure always. I thank God for the many, many blessings in my life, for parents who always encouraged me to dream my dreams and who have been sitting in every audience of my lifetime, including tonight,” she expressed in part of her speech.

The actress thanked people on her team and teachers who had helped her along the way. Lucci also gave a huge shout-out to Agnes Nixon, creator and producer of All My Children. She also shared kind words for her children, Liza and Andres, and her beloved husband, who has always championed her.

Related: ‘All My Children’ Legend Susan Lucci Makes Candid Confession About Working With A-List Star

“To the fans, I was only supposed to be on every other Tuesday. But thanks to you, I'm here. And I promise I will try my best never to let you down. I'm going back to that studio on Monday, and I'm going to play Erica Kane for all she's worth,” Lucci declared, ending her speech.

Nearly 25 years later, Lucci received the Daytime Emmy Lifetime Achievement Award at the 50th Annual Daytime Emmy Awards. Moore presented Lucci with the award, giving fans a nod to that iconic moment over two decades ago.

Despite playing Erica Kane for 41 years, those are the only two awards the soap legend won. However, her stellar career speaks for itself, and Kane will forever be a legend in the soap world.

Next: Deidre Hall Gives Update on Ryan Gosling’s Set Visit as She Marks Major ‘Days of Our Lives’ Milestone

Donald Trump’s granddaughter just graduated from high school, and Kai Trump is sharing pics of the major milestone. Just one day after her mother, Vanessa Trump, revealed a breast cancer diagnosis, Kai posted heartwarming mommy-daughter photos of the pair and a few other stellar snapshots of her graduation day. 

Along with the pics, the vlogger (who has well over one million subscribers) also posted a graduation video on YouTube. The 30-plus-minute clip starts the day before, with Kai explaining, “I’m graduating tomorrow. Definitely knew I was going to graduate, but I can’t believe it’s actually here.” She continued, “It’s kind of a big milestone. My birthday was two days ago, turned 19.” 

View this post on Instagram

What did the President’s daughter do on the day before graduation? Golf at Trump Jupiter, of course. Kai is an avid golfer who will join the University of Miami’s women’s team this fall and shows off her skills in the clip. 

After getting in a workout and eating lunch with fellow golfer Allan Kournikova (yes, he’s the younger brother of tennis star Anna Kournikova) she runs into her own brother, Tristan Trump. When the 14-year-old is asked if he’s proud of his sister, he answers with a simple, “Yeah.” But when she asks, “Did you think I would graduate?” he responds with a typical teenage answer: “Neh.” 

Fast-forward to graduation day, and Kai takes fans behind the scenes as she gets her hair done for the big event with her mom, Vanessa. Even though Vanessa is dealing with her own health crisis, she’s still smiling ear-to-ear as she gushes, “I can’t believe she’s graduating today. As they get older, we get older. But it’s just amazing how I can still remember bringing her to the young two’s program. And then now here she is graduating at 19, going off to college.” 

Vanessa continues, “Thank god she’s not too far away. She’s close by. But it’s very exciting. I’m very proud of her. I couldn't be more proud.” Trump also shares a bit about their “mother-daughter hair and makeup time,” saying, “These are photos and videos you’re going to have forever. Might as well get it all dolled up here.” On a more serious note, Vanessa adds, of Kai, “You couldn’t ask for a better role model. She has been such a great guidance to her younger siblings, so I’m truly blessed.”

The camera pans back to Kai, who talks about what she’ll do after graduation. Her immediate plans include dinner at her “favorite restaurant,” Blackbird. After a few other stops, the Trumps head home for Kai to get her makeup done and then…it’s off to graduation! 

As they call Kai’s name to walk across the stage and accept her diploma, viewers can see a few members of her famous family in the audience. Along with mom, Vanessa, dad Donald Trump Jr., his fiancée Bettina Anderson, and aunt Tiffany Trump all applaud the new grad. While there were reports that Vanessa’s beau, Tiger Woods, was at the ceremony, Kai does not show the pro golfer in the video or her photos. 

Survivor 50 is here! Every week, Parade's Mike Bloom will bring you interviews with the castaway most recently voted off the island.

If there's one thing we have learned from the past 365 days, it's that Rizo Velovic is synonymous with the word "fire." With less than two weeks between stints in Fiji, the Season 49 standout walked into the milestone season feeling like he was playing with house money, a Survivor superduperfan alongside people who have been vital to his passion for the show. But that smoke did not get in his eyes when it came to his overall goal: Replicate his success, get to the end, and substantiate himself as a legend. And indeed, through overcoming a bad first impression, forming an undercover trio, and somehow making it to the Final Five again with another public idol, he once again stood just one day shy of the Final Three. But his superfan dream of a season turned quickly into a nightmare. Aubry Bracco won a clutch Immunity Challenge, making him and Jonathan Young get a second shot at flaming out. And, while he compared it to a March Madness upset, Rizo ultimately was not able to make the half-court miracle happen, yet again finishing agonizingly short.

🔥Don’t miss our weekly Survivor newsletter! Sign up to get Mike Bloom’s exclusive interviews with the players and the latest news about the show right to your inbox.🔥

When talking with the Survivor 50 cast days before the game began, Rizo was one of the most negatively perceived contestants across the board. And he didn't exactly help change their minds from the jump, as he picked right up from where he left off a week and a half ago, spending more time building strategies than shelters. His lack of work ethic rankled members of his tribe early on but, to Rizo's credit, he quickly course-corrected, adjusting to the waters around him. As a result, he was able to inch his way from a consensus boot all the way up to the majority of his tribe. In fact, Genevieve Mushaluk even sent him a "Billie Eilish Boomerang Idol" (even if it was chiefly due to the idea of blindsiding him with it later on to get it back).

Unfortunately, all of that work got promptly undone with the drop of a buff. As the only Vatu on Cila beach, Rizo had a second attempt at a first chance. In this case, it was the fear of the unknown that was putting him in the line of fire. And, even when Rizo disclosed certain events of Season 49, it actively made things worse. When he lied, for example, that he didn't vote for his number one ally to win the game, Charlie Davis got activated, sparking a heated rivalry that had both men on the chopping block right before the merge. Luckily, Rizo had been putting in the work, especially with Cirie Fields. After meeting the iconic player at a fan event years ago, the two were now reunited as castmates and formed a tight bond. It was a moment of true "Cirie-ality," as the longtime fan had gone from only dreaming of playing to now working closely with a six-time legend over the course of a little over a month. With Dee Valladares and Kamilla Karthigesu by their side, "Operation Bad Blood" went off without a hitch, leading to Charlie's swift exit from the game. Rizo came into the season the biggest unknown, merely seeing himself as a fan among those he's watched for years. But, over the course of one night, he proved he could not only play alongside some of the biggest standouts in Survivor history, but blindside them too.

It was deja vu entering the merge for Rizo, as the fact he had an idol soon became public once more. This time, however, he was able to link up with a fellow idol-holder in Ozzy Lusth, courtesy of a connection with Cirie (and a long day spent on Exile together). Despite being the most new-school player left, Rizo was surprisingly welcomed into the old-school alliance, even able to coach Coach Wade at one point. And, as the individual game waned on, it seemed like his "polycule" with Cirie and Ozzy was the true building block of the postmerge, plotting and executing all of the votes. But one conversation seemed to change the entire course of Rizo's game.

When Aubry told him that Ozzy spilled his entire game to her, including the fact he didn't want to sit at the end with Rizo, he decided it was time to be a flipper with "Dolphin Boy." Having all the information that the hit was out on Ozzy, Rizo chose to sit idly by, as he said bye to an idol, as well as the one he had in his pocket. "Cirie's Rizard of Oz" was done for Rizo, as, much like the Emerald City, he was beginning to see green. But those chances of making it to the end burned like a scarecrow on Day 25, when he faced the worst form of deja vu by being sent into fire. And what was shocking was less so him getting defeated by Jonathan, and more so how it was revealed, with Jeff Probst accidentally spoiling his exit on live TV minutes before it actually happened.

The day after the finale, Rizo talks with Parade about why he chose to turn on Ozzy and Cirie, how he felt he would have done in the Final Three, and his reaction to Jeff revealing his own exit before it happened.

Related: Read our Survivor 50 pre-game interview with Rizo Velovic

We have to start with what unfolded not on screen, but on stage. You and I have seen many Survivor reunions, but we have never had a moment like that with Jeff accidentally revealing your boot early. Talk me through what that experience was like.
So listen, I was trying to be professional. When Jeff says jump, I tell Jeff, "How high?" So my understanding was we were gonna see fire, and I was gonna go out. Next thing I know is I'm on stage waiting to see fire, and they go, "Jeff's gonna call you," and he's like, "Let's bring out RizGod!" And I'm like, "Alright, I'll talk to Jeff. I love Jeff! This is camera time on the finale." And they're like, "Well, Rizo, you did great." And I was trying to like play it off. I was like, "Win or lose this firemaking, I'm so proud of myself." He's like, "Have a seat on the jury." I was like, "Well, my friends are gonna be crashing out right now." But listen, it's another historic moment that is part of RizGod's resume, and even more reason to bring me back a third time.

Rizo, this is the culmination of two straight seasons of playing, then watching yourself on Survivor. How do you feel now that the "Year of the RizGod" is coming to an end?
Honestly, I'm great. I can't believe the day is finally here. It's bittersweet. The year of the RizGod has been insane. 26 straight Survivor episodes of Rizo. I remember talking to you on Day 1 of 49, talking about how much I want to leave a mark on this game. And to know that I did just that, whether people hate me or love me, they can't deny that I left a mark on Survivor. That's all I ever wanted. Obviously, $2 million would have been great. But this has been everything that I wanted.

Let's start with where the season ended. Were you always going to vote Aubry going into final Tribal Council? Or did something sway you one way or the other?
To be quite honest, heading into Ponderosa right after I lost fire, I said, "Joe has my vote." Joe met so much to me. There was a great relationship that we had that really wasn't highlighted in the edit. We saw a great secret scene about it. We saw sprinkles of Joe saying, "We gotta clue in Rizo." Or I said, "We gotta clue in Joe." And even Joe helping me make the fire, I felt that I wanted to repay Joe for everything that he's done for my family. I said it to you in the preseason of Season 50. And we really worked so well together. Cirie and I were strategically aligned, that she was my basically ride or die till Final Five, but till the very end was Joe.

So I was going to vote for Joe, and then heading into Ponderosa, I heard there was this debate between Aubry and Jonathan, like one of them is going to win. And I felt that if I voted for Joe, finding out that I probably would have been the only one that was going to vote for Joe, I didn't want that vote to cost someone the win. So then I focused on Aubry or Jonathan. And I just felt like the case that Aubry made at FTC. And I will say I was moved more by her Survivor legacy and story falling just short in Kaoh Rong and now getting to the end again. I felt that a better storybook ending for Season 50 would have been for Aubrey to win.

So how do you feel you would have done sitting next to her? If you win fire, what would be your chances of winning 50?
1%. For me, my best shot at winning the game, and we saw it finally at the finale, was Joe, Jonathan, and I. We had a Final Three deal since the Ozzy boot. It came into fruition in the edit. We realized that the only way that one of us [can] win is against each other. Aubry just had that story of the multi-time player. How is somebody like myself, the new kid on the block, who they have no idea about, and already have preconceived notions about the "RizGod" going to [get votes]? Maybe I get a sympathy vote for Dee, because Dee was my girl out there. I think maybe I get a second; maybe it's like 9-2. But I don't beat Aubry.

Talk to me about that perception a little bit. Aubry spoke about in the penultimate episodethat people were getting annoyed by you. And many have spoken about you not contributing to camp life. Were you surprised at how you were being seen out there at the time?
No, not at all. I feel like had I won, we would have seen it. But I was so self-aware of everything. I realized that the only shot I have of winning is against Joe and Jonathan, because we all have flaws in our game. Some people were annoyed with Joe, obviously. We see the coining of "Joe-tation"; I wasn't annoyed with Joe personally. And then we see a lot of people have feelings about Jonathan. Obviously, he kind of mismanaged the jury in the earlier half of the merge, and I knew that.

And I had two key conversations with Emily Flippen and actually, Rick Devens. It's pretty early on in the merge, and Emily tells me, "Rizo, honestly, I don't know what you're doing in this game." And that really raised alarm bells, because it's like, "Holy crap. I'm playing really well, because I know everything that's going on. But these people don't know how well I'm doing." And had they watched 49, they can see that I can dictate a vote behind the scenes, but they didn't.

So I was thinking to myself, "Okay, if Emily doesn't see it, and she's a strategic queen, she loves the strategy of the game, I need to get to the end with people that Emily won't vote for. And I don't think she was going to vote for Joe and Jonathan." Rick's the same way. Honestly, I think even if I make the end with Joe and Jonathan, Rick probably doesn't vote for me, because Rick doesn't believe what I was selling. Rick's like, "Honestly, I just don't see it, man." And I said, "You don't see my game?" He's like, "No." And I was like, "Thank you for being honest. At least now I know who I have to sit at the end with." So I had a good perception what my winner equity was. I do, in my heart of hearts, believe I have a really good shot at winning had it been Joe and Jonathan and I. But once Aubry won immunity, I was like, "Well, I'm just here to win fire to reverse my curse." I didn't think it was a $2 million fire.

I've heard a lot from the jury about how you were physically deteriorating in the postmerge. Talk to me about that. Did that come from playing back-to-back?
I wouldn't say I was sick; I wasn't ill or had the fever or the flu. It mostly was malnutrition. I started Day 1 of 49 [at] 174 pounds, I finished Day 25 of 50 [at] 128. I had a Spencer Cambodia transformation. And there was a point of the game, I can't stomach the coconut, the papayas. All that gets me sick; I vomit. And I did not win reward in Survivor 50, so I went 11, 12 days without eating anything. And I didn't gain the 22 pounds I lost in 49; I gained two of it back before 50.

So I got to the point where I was like, "Dude, I haven't eaten in two weeks, I need a reward." So I was just hanging out by the shelter. I couldn't get up because my stomach was eating itself alive, I would get dizzy or lightheaded if I walked around camp too much. And I just pick and choose my battles. Especially with 17 people in merge, I can't just be the "R-I-Z-G-O-D" peppy guy. I had to pick who I was aligned with. And I think that's kind of what helped me, Cirie and Ozzy be so undercover, because we worked very in unison. I didn't talk to them 24/7. When we spoke, it was great conversations. And I feel like I get a lot more love now watching the season back from my cast, because they're like, "Okay, you were actually playing a really good game." I just felt like my perception with the "RizGod" of people not believing the new kid on the block was an uphill battle for me.

Do you feel like playing back-to-back seasons hurt your approach to 50?
I don't think so. I think what I learned watching 49 back is that maybe even 50 now is that not all the jurors see the game like how I see the game. So I think objectively I made all the right moves both seasons in a row, and I truly feel that you can say I'm delusional. 49, had I won fire, I feel like I had a really good shot at winning. I really do feel that way. 50, I felt like if I made it with Joe and Jonathan, I had a really good shot at winning.

And I know I was super aware that people didn't respect me. They all called me lazy. Cirie would tell me all the time, "Stephenie's saying this about you, Coach is saying this about you." I knew all of this; that's why I knew I had to go to the end with Joe and Jonathan, because we all had flaws. People didn't like Joe's honor and integrity, people didn't like Jonathan for whatever reason, and people thought I was a lazy bum. I was like, "Great, they got to vote for one of us!" Ultimately, we thought we could beat Aubry at an immunity. I mean, let me rephrase that. Joe and Jonathan felt that they could beat Aubry. was just hoping they could get the job done and take me not to fire. But I'm so proud of myself. I felt so great with what I've accomplished, and I don't think seeing myself on TV would have changed anything. Truly, I would have done the exact same thing.

Were you surprised the fans voted for Final Four firemaking?
Yes. And I blame all the TikTok, Twitter, Reddit fans. Because you know I'm so chronically online, I read everything. And everybody for years is like, "We hate fire, we hate fire, we hate fire." So I'm like, "Listen, they're gonna vote for the vote. I'm great, no one's gonna vote me out, because I'm the young kid on the block they want to take in the end. And then Jeff is like "60%!" I was like, "F—k you, fans. You cooked me." And then all the emotions started to come, and I was like, "Damn it." And you saw my raw emotion. I said I literally did everything I could to avoid this moment. And it happened again.

You talk about "Cirie's Rizard of Oz." Let's get into what happened with you all in the endgame. You were the keeper of the keys at the Ozzy vote, and you opted not to tell him to play his idol, ensuring his blindside. Was it really because Aubry told you what he told her? Or did you never have him in your endgame plans?
So the reality was I was never going to the end with Cirie and Ozzy. I was never going to beat either of them, and I came to win the game. Going to the end, like I said in 49, coming second, third, fourth, fifth is the same as first boot. I couldn't care less. I am there to win. So I had intentions of going to seven with Ozzy and Cirie, because as a three I felt like, "Hey, I can flip on them, I can make my big move."

But when I hear that Ozzy's jury managing, from my perspective, Aubry knew about the extra vote. Aubry knew that Ozzy and I and Cirie were very close. Aubry then goes, tells Joe, who I am very closely aligned with. And Joe comes back to me, and he's like, "Rizo, you're in a trio with Cirie and Ozzy?" I'm like, "Absolutely not. I'm in a trio with you and Jonathan, Joe!" So I had to pivot, and I realized that Ozzy gave the whole keys to our plan.

And what really made me fully decide not to tell him about the idol is because, if I tell Ozzy to play his idol, Aubre will now go into the jury, not preaching about me for telling Ozzy that he should have played his idol, but preaching to the jury that I was Ozzy's sheep because I was able to do what he wanted. She's going to go in there and pitch dirt, because Ozzy was like, "Hey, you're going home." And if she does go home, Ozzy's right, and that's all of my equity gone. So people saying I should have done a Natalie Anderson move, I wasn't going to get the credit for it. So ultimately, I thought I made the right decision, and ultimately I feel like I did. The only thing that came down to it was Aubry winning that final immunity.

So Cirie wasn't in your endgame plans. But you mentioned before you voted her out that she was your rock in the game. Talk to me about what your relationship was like.
I can't put into words how much Cirie Fields means to me. I don't want to crown myself this, but just to see online people call me an honorary Fields member has meant so much. I have so much respect for Cirie, because I feel like we're "cut from the same cloth." I think we see the game the same way we play very similar games. And I would never disrespect Cirie and say I am Cirie Fields from K-Mart. But I feel like we play a social and strategic game.

All I ever wanted was to play with her. Because look at history, people that align with Cirie win the game. Aras, Parvati, Sarah Lacina, all these great players. And I knew that if I had Cirie's buy-in, we can do a lot of damage, and we really did. I think Cirie played the best game of the season, but I think I'm up there as well. Not because of my own doing, but because of the relationship I had with her. They've given me so much grace, she's given me so much love, and I owe so much of my success to her. I love Cirie.

Well, let's talk about one of those Cila relationships that wasn't so loving. Talk to me about what happened with Charlie. Did you realize the anger he had towards you for allegedly not voting for your number one ally was getting to him in the moment?
So it's so funny, and I joke [about] it. Charlie and I are great friends now; that's my guy. We actually have a very viral TikTok that you should go check out that we posted yesterday. So I had a gut feeling, and we saw it at that boat scene, where Charlie said, "Who did you tell about Billie Eilish? I said, "Buddy, I told you about Billie Eilish, trying to work with you. And you're trying to press me?! Clearly, something's going on."

So, ultimately, I thought the reason why he targeted me was because I was the sole OG Vatu member, and he just wanted to play an easy game and get to the merge. Which, fair point on his end. But to know that all the questions I was asking him about Maria, I should have known that that probably was going to bother him a little bit. But I'm a fan! I told Colby on OG Vatu why he brought Tina. I don't know, I was just asking people things just to ask them. And I don't think it really bothered him, but I felt like he felt comfortable to make it a story.

So I had no idea that was a storyline at all until the episode aired, and then I texted Charlie. I was like, "Dude, what is this?" And he said, "Riso, I found out in Ponderosa that Savannah was your number one, and didn't think he'd make the edit because it would confuse the fan base." And I felt like it kind of was a little bit confusing. But I mean, listen, Charlie's a great champ. I think he's taken it really well. But I loved it personally, because I thought it was really funny.

It's clear you absolutely want to play again. After playing back-to-back seasons, would you want to have some time in between appearances now?
It's a hard question to ask. I don't know if five years from now my threat level changes because there's a new crop of players. Ultimately, I feel like whatever is meant to happen is meant to happen, and I have faith in my social and strategic chops. I went against the greatest of the greats, and I made it to the end. I am one of four people, Mike, to have never been voted out in multiple seasons that haven't quit or gotten medevacked. And that is a feat that I take proudly. So even if it was 54, 55, I would still do it. I would never say no. I don't want to wait till I'm 35 and play.

What I will say is, whenever that day does come, you can rest assured, if I make the merge, I'm winning an individual immunity, I'm completing a puzzle. And if I get the chance, I'm going to make fire. I don't have a timetable, but just know that if RizGod gets a call from Jeff Probst and Matt Van Wagenen, that he's takng it, and he'll be back in the islands of Fiji.

Let's bring things back full circle. You've talked from the beginning about wanting to be on Survivor to represent your family and the Albanian community. So what was it like to come out on stage (albeit a little early) to such a rapturous ovation?
I mean, I want to give a big shout-out to the "LiZGod," my girlfriend. I love her so much. Big shout out to my parents, my younger brother, I love him. My parents and Elizabeth knew what was going to happen coming into tonight. My brother didn't know. But obviously, with what ended up happening from the live finale kind of put a wrench in the plans, they were a little shocked. But they told me that after that happened, the audience started chanting "Rizo." So just giving them that moment is so great, because they've always believed in me, and I've always believed in myself. But to see hundreds, thousands, millions of people at home believing in the RizGod means more to them than it does to me.

Related: 'Survivor 50' Finalist Joe Hunter Reacts to Losing Another Jury Vote: 'I Could Tell Right Away' (Exclusive)

For many families tired of seeing the prices of Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max, Apple TV, and other favorite streaming apps keep rising, Pluto TV's kid-friendly programming is sure to bring a sigh of relief. The streaming app, which already has an impressive number of free, ad-supported channels, also has Pokémon and Pokémon Español, two channels dedicated to everyone's favorite fictional creatures.

Both channels show Pokémonmovies and episodes from the anime series 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Additionally, they feature the same programming, with Pokémon Español airing everything in Spanish. Considering Pokémon the Series began in 1997, and the franchise has produced two anime films and one live-action movie, there is plenty of content to choose from.

Beat Rising Streaming Costs with Pluto TV's Free Programming

Other free, kid-friendly channels include Nickelodeon, Transformers TV, Strawberry Shortcake and Friends, LEGO, and Garfield and Friends. There are also ten channels dedicated to anime. Kids and nostalgic adults alike can watch shows like Yu-Gi-Oh!, Naruto, Sailor Moon, and One Piece.

While Pluto TV also airs more mature films like The Godfather and Gangs of New York, the streaming platform has definitely become a favorite among families struggling to pay for the various streaming services. In 2025, Disney+ raised its monthly ad-supported plan by an additional $2 per month, while Peacock and Apple TV raised theirs by $3 per month. 2026 saw Netflix and Paramount Plus raise theirs by $1.

The History of Pokémania: Where It All Began

Pokémon first began as a Nintendo video game in 1996. Soon, it spawned Pokémon trading cards, and by April 1997, the anime series Pocket Monsters premiered. A year and a half later, it debuted in North America simply as Pokémonthe Series. By 1999, Pokémania officially began, with the show becoming the highest-rated kids' show in North America.

The protagonist of Pokémon is Ash Ketchum, a boy who is trying to become a Pokémon trainer. The Pokémon Pikachu becomes his sidekick. Ash travels around the world, discovering and catching the 151 different Pokémon species with something called a Poké Ball. After successfully catching them, he trains them to battle against other Pokémon.

View this post on Instagram

In 2023, Ash and Pikachu's story ended after 25 years together, as Ash finally reached his goal of becoming the No. 1 Pokémon trainer. Season 26 marked the beginning of a new story titled Pokémon Horizons, featuring protagonists Liko and Roy and their Pokémon.

Due to the sheer number of incredible sci-fi films, it seems nearly impossible to narrow down the very best from the speculative and spectacular genre. However, Paste magazine did just that by sharing a list of the "100 best sci-fi movies of all time."

The ranking featured beloved sci-fi films like Ghost in the Shell (1995), The Day the Earth Stood Still (1951), They Live (1988), Soylent Green (1973), E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial(1982), and Stalker (1979). According to Paste, the top five movies from the genre are Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope (1977), Aliens(1986), Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back (1980), and Blade Runner (1982), with 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968) securing the top spot.

According to the publication, the Stanley Kubrick epic is the top sci-fi film ever made because it encompasses so much of the human experience with beautiful, almost meditative cinematography.

The 1968 film has a score of 90 percent on Rotten Tomatoes and 84 on Metacritic.

Two of the Film's Stars Shared Insight Into the Set During a 2014 Interview

Two of the stars of 2001: A Space Odyssey, Keir Dullea, who played Dr. David "Dave" Bowman, and Gary Lockwood, who played Dr. Frank Poole, shared some insight into the movie's impressive shots during a 2014 interview with BFI.

Dullea described the film's set as "80 feet tall" and similar to an "enclosed Ferris wheel" with "lights shining in." Lockwood also said that "because [the set] was a circle, the camera was on the bottom on rollers."

"The crew, who were pulling the cameras, the grips, were running as fast as they could to try to stay ahead of me. And if you've seen the film, you'll see that I'm a little bit running downhill because I'm slightly on the uphill side of the curve at the bottom of it," recalled the actor, now 89.

Dullea also noted that "everything in 2001 was done physically," without "computer-generated effects."

Steven Anthony Lawrence is making a rare return to television, but this time it’s for a shot at a major cash prize.

The former Disney Channel actor appeared on the Wednesday, May 20 episode of The Floor, hosted by Rob Lowe, months after publicly alleging he was wrongfully fired from Universal Studios Hollywood.

Lawrence, best known for playing Bernard “Beans” Aranguren on Even Stevens, competed in the show’s “Renaissance Faire” category, joking that he felt qualified because he’s “played an elf and taken on a few character roles” throughout his career.

During the episode, Lowe asked Lawrence what his favorite acting role had been over the years. “My favorite was definitely Beans from Even Stevens,” the 35-year-old responded as the audience applauded.

The actor held his own during the game, correctly identifying several Renaissance-themed images, before ultimately winning the round and securing 17 spaces on the game board, bringing him one step closer to the show’s $250,000 grand prize. His run eventually came to an end during a later “Global News” category matchup.

Back in January, Lawrence shared an emotional Instagram statement alleging that his termination from Universal Studios came after he internally reported concerns about a “suspected [pedophile] around children.” Alongside a photo of his employee badge, he claimed management retaliated against him for speaking up.

READ MORE: Ex-Disney Child Star Says He Was Fired From Universal Studios After Reporting Incident With ‘Suspected Pedophile’

“It is with a heavy heart I have to announce that my time with Universal Studios has ended,” Lawrence wrote at the time.

He also alleged that he could no longer support an organization that, in his words, “don’t care about performer or guest safety while numerous people continue to get hurt.”

The actor did not publicly provide additional details surrounding the allegations, though the post quickly sparked heated reactions online from both supporters and critics.

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

Many millennials still closely associate Lawrence with his scene-stealing role on Even Stevens, which aired on Disney Channel from 2001 to 2003 alongside Shia LaBeouf and Christy Carlson Romano.

Having your doctor tell you that you have high blood pressure can be a wake-up call. Even if you are in otherwise good health, having high blood pressure increases the risk of heart attack, stroke and kidney damage. That’s pretty dangerous for a medical condition you can’t even feel.

While there are prescription medications that can help lower blood pressure, nothing can take the place of a heart-healthy diet and lifestyle. According to a scientific article published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, up to 90% of hypertension cases are preventable. 

“The single most impactful change you can make is reducing sodium. It hides in processed and restaurant foods far more than people realize,” says Dr. Kainat Khalid, MD, a cardiologist and the director of Jamaica Hospital’s Hypertension Center in Richmond Hill, New York. According to the American Heart Association, sodium intake should be capped at 2,300 milligrams a day (roughly one teaspoon), and ideally under 1,500 milligrams a day. 

Related: What Lowering Your Blood Pressure Risk Looks Like By Decade—and How To Keep Yours In Check

In addition to keeping sodium intake low, Dr. Khalid explains that other ways to support blood pressure through diet include building meals around whole foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins. “The DASH diet was specifically designed with blood pressure in mind, and the research behind it is very strong,” she adds.

Dr. Allen J. Taylor, MD, FACC, the chairman of cardiology at MedStar Health and Vascular Institute, adds to this, saying that minimizing ultra-processed foods goes a long way in lowering the risk of high blood pressure. 

Breakfast is the first opportunity of the day to support your cardiovascular health through what you eat. Of all the breakfast foods, oatmeal perhaps has the health halo that shines the brightest. Can eating it every morning really move the needle when it comes to lowering blood pressure? Here’s the answer, according to cardiologists.

Related: The One Habit That Can Lower Your Blood Pressure Overnight, According To a Cardiologist

Natalia Gdovskaia/Getty Images

How Eating Oatmeal Impacts Blood Pressure

As long as the oatmeal you’re buying isn’t flavored and doesn’t have any added sugar, both Dr. Khalid and Dr. Taylor say that eating oatmeal for breakfast is a great habit for lowering blood pressure. 

“Studies have consistently shown that regular oatmeal consumption can produce meaningful reductions in blood pressure due to a soluble fiber called beta-glucan,” Dr. Khalid says. To this point, a 2023 analysis of 21 different scientific studies published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics found that regularly eating oatmeal significantly reduced blood pressure in people with hypertension.

Dr. Khalid explains that the beta-glucan in oatmeal helps reduce LDL cholesterol, improves blood sugar regulation and supports better arterial function. But it’s not just the beta-glucan that has a positive impact on blood pressure. Dr. Taylor says that oatmeal is a good source of potassium, which lowers blood pressure by reducing tension in blood vessel walls and prompting the kidneys to excrete excessive sodium through urine.

Besides beta-glucan and potassium, Dr. Khalid says that the magnesium in oatmeal also helps lower blood pressure because it relaxes blood vessels and balances electrolytes. 

Related: Worried About Salt and Your Blood Pressure? Here's What Cardiologists Want You To Know

What To Pair With Your Oatmeal To Support Blood Pressure Even More

By starting your morning with a bowl of oatmeal, you’re already supporting your cardiovascular health. But you can increase the benefits (and make your breakfast even tastier) by adding a few other key ingredients. 

Dr. Taylor says that adding blueberries or strawberries to your oatmeal will increase the benefits. Both of these berries are high in antioxidants, which reduce blood pressure by neutralizing free radicals, which lowers oxidative stress in the cardiovascular system. This causes blood vessels to relax and allows for better blood flow. 

Remember how one of the reasons why oatmeal is beneficial for blood pressure is because of its potassium content? Dr. Khalid says that adding a banana to your oatmeal can make your breakfast even higher in potassium, increasing the benefits. 

Both cardiologists say that adding nuts or seeds like almonds, walnuts or ground flaxseeds can also be beneficial. These foods are all high in omega-3 fatty acids and fiber, two nutrients linked with lowering blood pressure. 

🩺SIGN UP for tips to stay healthy & fit with the top moves, clean eats, health trends & more delivered right to your inbox twice a week💊

What To Avoid Adding to Your Oatmeal for Blood Pressure Support

In terms of what to avoid, Dr. Khalid suggests avoiding the addition of brown sugar or flavored syrups to your oatmeal. Both doctors warn against having your oatmeal with sugary pastries or processed meat like bacon or sausage, which are high in saturated fat and linked to raising blood pressure.

“No single food is a magic bullet, but for oatmeal, the evidence is consistent, it's affordable and almost anyone can make it a daily habit,” Dr. Khalid says. “If you're currently eating a sugary breakfast every morning, swapping that for a bowl of plain oatmeal with fruit could be one of the most impactful changes you make.”

Starting your day on a healthy note will set the tone for the rest of the day. Building off this one heart-healthy habit can have a big impact on your cardiovascular health. After all, it’s the foods we eat most often that affect health the most.

Up Next:

Related: Here’s Exactly What Happens to Your Blood Pressure When You Eat Beets

Sources:

• Overview: High blood pressure. InformedHealth.org.
• Carey, R. M., Mutner, P., Bosworth, H. B., et al. (2019). Prevention and Control of Hypertension: JACC Health Promotion Series. Journal of the American College of Cardiology. 72(11):1278-1293. 
• Dr. Kainat Khalid, MD, cardiologist and the director of Jamaica Hospital’s Hypertension Center in Richmond Hill, New York.
• How Much Sodium Should I Eat Per Day? American Heart Association.
• Dr. Allen J. Taylor, MD, FACC, chairman of cardiology at MedStar Health and Vascular Institute.
• Xi, H., Zhou, W., Niu, Y., et al. (2023). Effect of Oat Consumption on Blood Pressure: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. 123(5):809-823.
• Vendrame, S., Adekeye, T. E. and Klimis-Zacas, D. (2022). The Role of Berry Consumption on Blood Pressure Regulation and Hypertension: An Overview of the Clinical Evidence.Nutrients. 14(13):2701.
• Cabo, J., Alonso, R. and Mata, P. (2012). Omega-3 fatty acids and blood pressure. British Journal of Nutrition. 107 Suppl 2:S195-200.
• Tejani, V. N., Dhillon, S. S., Damarlapally, N., et al. (2023). The Relationship Between Dietary Fiber Intake and Blood Pressure Worldwide: A Systematic Review.Cureus. 15(9):e46116.

Memorial Day weekend is finally almost here, which means it is officially time to swap out heavy winter decor for lighter and brighter summer touches. Costco shoppers are already spotting one home find that feels perfect for the season ahead. It completely changes the mood of a room with almost no effort.

The LumiPur 6-Piece Flameless LED Candle set has Costco shoppers in love. The set comes with six candles in three different heights, along with a remote control and built-in timers. Best of all, the soft flickering glow creates the kind of relaxed summer vibe people usually try to achieve with expensive home decor.

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

User @costcohotfinds even described them as the "most realistic LED candles I've ever seen," and after watching the flicker effect, it is easy to understand why people are so impressed.

Why Costco Shoppers Are Obsessed With This Home Find View this post on Instagram

Part of what makes this Costco home find stand out is how realistic the candles look in person. Unlike older flameless candles that can feel harsh or obviously fake, these use dual LED flicker lights that mimic the movement of a real flame. The candles are made with real paraffin wax and housed in glass.

The set includes two short candles, two medium candles and two taller candles, making it easy to spread them throughout a room or group them on a dining table, patio or bookshelf. Since the weather is getting warmer and summer is approaching, they feel especially fitting for late-night dinners, backyard hangs or relaxed evenings indoors.

The remote also makes them incredibly convenient. Shoppers can dim the brightness and choose between two-, four- and six-hour timer settings without even leaving the couch. Costco included all the batteries as well, so the candles are ready to use right out of the box.

Related: Costco Just Brought Back a Bright, Fresh Prepared Side Perfect for Easy Meals

The Easy Home Decor Trend Taking Over This Summer

Soft lighting has become one of the biggest home decor trends lately, especially as people look for ways to make their spaces feel calmer and more inviting. Flickering candles naturally create a cozy glow that reminds people of golden hour, campfires and long summer nights outside.

That is why this Costco home find feels especially timely heading into Memorial Day weekend and summer entertaining season. It instantly adds ambiance without the mess or safety concerns of real candles.

At just $35 for six candles plus a remote, Costco shoppers are calling this one of the easiest and most affordable home decor upgrades of the season.

Related: Costco's New 16-Piece Stoneware Dinnerware Set Is the Definition of Everyday Chic

Season 35 introduced the Survivorfinal four fire-making twist, and it became a staple. Two castaways must race to make a hot and tall fire that burns through a rope. The winner gets the final third seat to make their case of why they should win in front of the jury.

Fans got the chance to decide if Survivor 50 will include the twist. The results were revealed, and the twist continues to divide fans.

Spoiler warning for Survivor 50's finale!

Some have wanted old Survivor back for years, with one more tribal council vote at the final four. This would rely on a player's social game, like the previous votes. However, the fire-making twist gives any player a chance to advance to the final three despite their social games.

Jonathan Young and Rizo Velovic in 'Survivor 50'

Robert Voets/CBS

Related: Why ‘Survivor 50’ Fans Call Joe Hunter a ‘Terrific Person’ After the Finale

How well they can build a fire is the deciding factor in fire-making, and that's not solely up to skill. The wind has greatly affected one castaway over another at times. Fans had a chance to bring back old Survivor with season 50. Aubry Bracco won immunity, and Jeff Probst revealed 60% of fans voted to keep the fire-making challenge this season.

Fans previously talked about this possibility on Reddit on May 3. "I'd say taking out F4 fire is at least a step in the right direction. But if we’re only making one endgame change, then I’m bringing back the F2," one commenter wrote.

"Just have a regular vote at final four but with no advantages. If you played a good game you won’t go home," one person replied.

Of course, there are fans who disagree. "No if you played the best game you’ll go home and you’ll get Joe [Hunter] in the finals," another viewer replied. "We all know people vote out the best players at 5 now. Same thing will happen at 4."

"I don’t mind fire," another person added. "I understand some don’t like it, but is the reason because it’s flukey? Depending on the wind, yes you can get a weird result. But I think it goes back to the survival aspect and you should be able to make fire if you are on survivor."

The episode revealed Jonathan Young beating Rizo Velovic in fire. It was obvious that Rizo, 26, was less experienced at the activity. In the end, it was Aubry, 40, who won the jury votes against Jonathan and Joe.

Related: Fans Still Can’t Get Over the Time Erik Gave Up Immunity on ‘Survivor’

Crocs is teaming up with Red Bull Racing for a new limited-edition collection, and the cool collaboration already has fans overly hype for the shoes to drop. The Formula 1-inspired footwear fuses elements of racing and Crocs' iconic classic silhouette, making a standout release that will prove to be a must-have collector's item.

The lineup includes two styles, the Oracle Red Bull Racing Classic Runner ($85) and the Oracle Red Bull Racing Crocband Clog ($95), along with a 5-pack set of coordinating Jibbitz charms ($20). "Speed, precision, comfort. The Oracle Red Bull Racing collection was developed with form and function in mind and delivers a best-in-class wearing experience whether you’re headed to the track or watching the race from home," the brand's official description reads online.

The Classic Runner is navy blue with a royal blue checkered flag-style design on top and red accents on the heel strap and sole. "Made for crews of all kinds, this unique shoe features a sporty silhouette with a gum rubber outsole, cushioned underfoot comfort, and an aero-style body making it look as fast as it feels. Put your pair in sport mode and hop into the driver's seat in this cutting-edge pair," Crocs notes.

Meanwhile, the Crocband Clog is more eye-catching, featuring a navy blue base that's molded to look like an actual race car—down to a racer's head peeking out from the top. It even includes a winged heel strap. "This is innovation at its best. The Oracle Red Bull Racing Crocband Clog celebrates Red Bull's commitment to relentless engineering in the name of speed. Inspired by the team's turbocharged racing machine, this clog is built out just like your favorite car featuring aerodynamic wings, faux wheels, and more. Throw them in sport mode and drive up to your next race in this cutting-edge pair," the brand introduced.

Both pairs are water-friendly, easy to clean, and are said to have an "incredibly light" feel on the feet.

View this post on Instagram

Across social media, shoppers are raving over the head-turning release.

"Yeah I’m afraid I need these immediately," one person wrote in the comments section of an Instagram video showcasing the release.

"I want a pair!!! 😍," another exclaimed, while a third felt compelled to admit, "I hate crocs but I’d get these."

Someone else confirmed they wasted no time purchasing: "I got em and I cannot wait to galavant around nyc in them."

Meanwhile, more commenters chimed in with notes like, "I would 100% wear these to a race weekend," "It's like wearing Hot Wheels but for grownups 😂😂😂😂😂," and "Hahaha my husband thinks it'll help me walk faster 😂."

The Crocs x Red Bull Racing collection officially drops online on Thursday, May 21, 2026 — but only for a limited time.

Related: Crocs’ New First-of-Its-Kind Release Is Flying Off Shelves