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50 is a great time to ditch certain habits—because, no, it isn’t too late. In fact, Dr. Michele Goldman, Ph.D., a psychologist and Hope for Depression Research Foundation media advisor, says it’s a common turning point for people.

“People in this age can start to see and relate to time differently,” she tells Parade. “For instance, time is more valuable, and it’s not infinite. They realize the importance of spending their time in meaningful ways.”

To do so, she says it helps to understand, adapt and maintain the habits of emotionally strong people. She shares that doing so “can give pointed guidance on what to do vs. not do, and helps to build or develop a skill set of emotional strength.”

It might help for us to back up and discuss the meaning of emotional strength in psychology.

“Emotional strength is the ability to feel and cope with strong or challenging emotions, while being able to communicate effectively with other people about needs and wants in the moment,” she explains. “Emotional strength can also be the ability to feel your emotions without becoming overly dysregulated as a result, and to maintain composure or recover from the challenging emotions.”

Once again, no, it is not too late to build emotional strength in midlife and beyond. Dr. Goldman says some people have emotional strength innately, but others learn skills and develop it. She suggests ditching these seven things after 50 (if you do them)—they won’t move you closer to the “you” you want to be.

Related: Color Psychologist Says These 5 Colors Are Worn Most by ‘Mentally Strong’ Women

7 Things Emotionally Strong People Stop Doing After 50, According to a Psychologist

Dr. Goldman stresses that you’ll want to stop doing some things after 50 if you want to build emotional strength. She reveals seven energy leaks to patch in midlife that will help you flex emotionally.

1. Finding safety in ‘holding on’

When Dr. Goldman suggests that people over 50 need to “let go,” she’s not breaking into the famous Frozen song. Instead, she’s sharing the psychology of letting go.

“Letting go is an emotional and cognitive process of releasing attachments. We all form attachments throughout our lives, whether to other people, objects, past emotional injuries or narratives we have constructed over time or control,” she explains. “These attachments and frameworks can keep us grounded, or they can also keep us stuck.”

When we let go, we release our attachment to what no longer serves us. If that sounds scary, no, you’re not alone.

“Many people struggle with letting go,” she notes. “It can be a frightening concept. We do not necessarily know what letting go means or looks like. Being attached to something feels like there is a sense of control or safety.”

But the process can lead to inner peace.

2. Letting their inner critic have the megaphone

You may be a pro at pep talks with others by now. But shutting down that negative inner critic and speaking kindly to yourself after 50 may seem like an impossible hill to climb. Dr. Goldman still suggests trying it.

“Engaging in compassionate self-talk after 50 can help build resilience and help navigate the inevitable changes that come with being in midlife, specifically social, physical and age-related changes that are specific to people in their 50s,” she says.

There are many ways to engage in compassionate self-talk, and Dr. Goldman says it takes practice and usually doesn’t come naturally. She explains that one option is to reframe your thoughts so they’re balanced and neutral rather than judgmental or harsh. For instance, she points out that “I’m so lazy now that I’m getting older” can be reframed into “My body is changing as I enter my 50s, and it has served me well all this time.” 

Alternatively, she suggests identifying a specific thought. Then, ask yourself, “Is this something I’d say to a friend?”

“The answer is generally ‘no,’ and then the compassionate self-talk is generated by answering, ‘How would you say this to a close friend?'” the psychologist notes. “The next statement is gentler and kinder.” 

Related: If You Commonly Use These 7 Phrases, You’re More Emotionally Intelligent Than You Might Realize, According to a Psychologist

3. Engaging in people-pleasing

It is entirely possible to stop people-pleasing even after five decades on this Earth—yes, even you, eldest daughters.

“It is important to stop people-pleasing in midlife to retake control over your future, become a more authentic version of yourself and reclaim your time, energy and focus,” Dr. Goldman says. “Midlife can be a particularly great time to stop people-pleasing because there tends to be less of a need for external validation.”

She shares that people in the 50+ crowd also crave authentic, healthy, balanced friendships.

To stop people-pleasing after 50, Dr. Goldman suggests pausing before you answer someone so that you can center yourself.

“Take time to think about what you want and what is most important,” Dr. Goldman advises. “Do not automatically say ‘yes’ and agree to something you really do not want or that does not serve you. In the pause, you can evaluate.”

4. Feeling uncomfortable setting boundaries with family

Boundaries can seem confrontational, but Dr. Goldman says emotionally strong people know they can reduce conflict, resolve it, build respect and support healthy interactions. While it can be challenging with family, she notes that it’s worth learning to become skilled at saying “no.”

“This takes practice, but it can be very empowering to say ‘no’ to social tasks or activities that you do not want to engage in,” she states. “You can start with people who it is easier to set a boundary with and work up towards people it might be more challenging [with].”

Expect pushback, ranging from people ignoring your boundary to people trying to talk you out of setting it. Stand strong.

“Being able to tolerate the pushback and maintain the boundary, such as by continuing to say ‘No, I’m sure,’ is one of the most difficult parts of maintaining the boundary,” she says. “It’s not just about setting boundaries but holding them and remaining consistent.”  

5. Acting as if learning stopped on graduation day

Dr. Goldman shares that emotionally strong people know learning is a lifelong pursuit.

“Staying curious about who we are, what is changing in the world and how to continue to grow and evolve over time is a key factor in being emotionally stable,” she states.

For instance, she says you can journal to reflect on how your values are evolving as you age. You can also explore a new hobby or interest that helps you learn something new and pushes you outside of your comfort zone.

Related: These 7 ‘Lazy’ Habits Actually Signal High Emotional Intelligence, Psychologist Says

6. Denying hard truths

Emotionally strong people practice acceptance—even when it’s challenging.

“This habit involves saying, ‘I acknowledge the reality of the situation,’ without negatively judging,” Dr. Goldman explains. “It means accepting the truth, even if you don’t like the truth.”

To start practicing acceptance, she suggests that you practice self-forgiveness, embrace your flaws or love yourself (shortcomings included).

7. Rolling eyes at the word ‘mindfulness’

We know “practice mindfulness” is so cliché. But here’s the thing: It works, and it helps people build and maintain emotional strength.

“Mindfulness keeps you in the here and now (the present moment), without worrying about the future or past,” Dr. Goldman says. “Being mindfully present means paying full attention and staying grounded in the moment.”

Try this: Pay complete and total attention when you wash dishes.

“Picking a task we might do on autopilot, instead pay total attention to the water, the soap, how the sponge feels against your skin, the weight of the bowl and more,” she suggests.

Up Next:

Related: Psychologist Says People Become Happier After 50 When They Let Go of These 5 Expectations

Source:

• Dr. Michele Goldman, Ph.D., is a psychologist and Hope for Depression Research Foundation media advisor.

In 1982, John Mellencamp was 30 years old and on the verge of becoming one of the biggest rock stars in America when “Jack & Diane” began a four-week run at No. 1.

The song, released under his then-stage name John Cougar, reached the top of the Billboard Hot 100 44 years ago today, beginning a reign that would last through much of October. It remains Mellencamp’s only No. 1 single on the Hot 100 and the biggest pop hit of his career.

It was a remarkable milestone for a singer who had faced obstacles from the very beginning. Mellencamp was born on Oct. 7, 1951 in Seymour, Ind. According to Yahoo Music, the singer was born with spina bifida and underwent corrective surgery as an infant. He would form his first band at 14 before eventually heading to New York in pursuit of a record deal.

By the time American Fool arrived in 1982, Mellencamp’s career was finally exploding. The album also produced “Hurts So Good,” which spent four weeks at No. 2, while “Jack & Diane” went all the way to the top.

According to music historian Fred Bronson’s “Billboard Book of Number One Hits,” “Jack & Diane” made a dramatic climb from No. 11 to No. 4 while “Hurts So Good” was still in the Top 10, briefly giving Mellencamp two songs among the country’s 10 biggest hits at the same time.

Then “Jack & Diane” took over the top spot.

“I had no idea ‘Jack and Diane’ would be like it was,” Mellencamp told Christopher Connelly in Rolling Stone, according to Bronson’s book. “A lot of people think that chorus (‘Life goes on/Long after the thrill of living is gone’) is negative, but I don’t. I think it makes people feel good to hear somebody else say, ‘Hey…you can deal with it.'”

Perhaps even more surprising is how close the song came to never becoming the record millions of people know.

Mellencamp has said “Jack & Diane” was difficult to record because he couldn’t get his band to play it the way he heard it in his head. Its unusual stop-and-start arrangement ultimately became part of its charm, while producer and guitarist Mick Ronson helped transform a song Mellencamp had essentially relegated to the discard pile.

Ronson suggested adding percussion and came up with the choir-like “let it rock, let it roll” section, an idea Mellencamp later credited as one of the recording’s most memorable moments.

“Jack & Diane” also helped turn American Fool into Mellencamp’s commercial breakthrough. The album reached No. 1 and sold millions of copies, while its videos for “Hurts So Good” and “Jack & Diane” became staples of the rapidly growing MTV. The success propelled Mellencamp from a struggling singer saddled with the “John Cougar” stage name into a major rock star.

More than four decades later, “Jack & Diane” hasn’t exactly faded into the jukebox dust.
When the Los Angeles Times ranked Mellencamp’s singles in 2026, the newspaper put “Jack & Diane” at No. 2, behind only “Pink Houses,” praising everything from its jumble of guitar sounds and infamous chili dog reference to its thunderous drum fill.

The song that Mellencamp struggled to make work had become the one that worked better on the pop charts than anything else he ever released.

Related: ’80s Rocker Once Grounded His Kid in Front of Madonna & Sean Penn (Exclusive)

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Social media trends tend to come and go, but one that is here to stay is the Y2K aesthetic.  Driven by the internet’s love for all things retro and nostalgic, Y2K style has now become a key player in the fashion industry. It’s inspired by ‘90s and ‘00s fashion, drawing influence from celebrities like Paris Hilton and Britney Spears. From baby tees to jelly flats, these pieces evoke a sense of nostalgia and will transport you back to your younger years. 

@softy2k

2000’s style #2000soutfits #2000svibes #aesthetics #y2k #y2kstyle

♬ som original – rafao phonk

If you’re looking to incorporate a little Y2K-inspired flair into your closet, this Prettygarden Bell-Sleeve Ribbed-Knit Top at Amazon is a fabulous choice for your fall wardrobe. Right now, you can score it on sale for up to a whopping 58% off for a limited time ahead of Amazon Prime Big Deal Days, happening Oct. 6 and 7. Normally retailing between $18 and $20, it’s now marked down to as low as $8. Prices vary depending on size and style, but there are several options that range between $8 and $10, while a few others go up to $15. 

Prettygarden Bell-Sleeve Ribbed-Knit Top, From $8 (was $20) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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This top is available in 22 solid colors, including neutrals like beige and black, deep tones like burgundy and dark green, pastels like dusty pink and light blue, and vibrant hues like rose red and royal blue. You can also choose from four polka dot styles in black, brown, navy blue, and wine red. Sizes range from extra small to XXL, and shoppers noted that it fits true to size. 

Featuring long bell sleeves and ribbed-knit fabric, this top nails the Y2K aesthetic. Chic and playful, the sleeves are flowy and flare out towards the wrist. The wide sleeves are balanced by the slim fit that creates a sleek silhouette, designed to skim your body. For some texture and dimension, the body is ruched, adding an eye-catching element. 

You can style this top with nearly anything in your closet for a Y2K look. Like a basic long-sleeve tee with a bit more pizzazz, it’s incredibly versatile and will complement all kinds of bottoms, whether you’re wearing jeans, trousers, palazzo pants, or a maxi skirt. If you want a complete Y2K-inspired outfit, try styling it with low-rise bootcut jeans, Mary Janes, and a baguette shoulder bag. 

Prettygarden Bell-Sleeve Ribbed-Knit Top, From $8 (was $20) at Amazon

The Prettygarden Bell-Sleeve Ribbed-Knit Top, pictured here, is now on sale at Amazon.

Shop at Amazon

Made of 92% viscose, this top is soft and smooth to the touch. Shoppers loved the feel of the fabric, describing it as “buttery soft.” Viscose is also breathable, making this top ideal for your fall wardrobe. While it offers plenty of coverage to shield you from cool breezes, it promotes airflow to help prevent you from overheating when the temperatures fluctuate. Reviewers noted that the sleeves aren’t too wide, allowing you to layer the top under jackets and coats during the chillier months. 

The other 8% of the fabric is made of elastane, giving it some elasticity. While this top has a slim fit, it’ll stretch along with your movements to keep you from feeling restricted. Whether you’re running errands, shopping all day long, or dining out, it’ll deliver lasting comfort. 

Shop More Y2K Pieces 

• Himosyber Parachute Baggy Pants, From $20 (were $25) at Amazon
• Blooming Jelly Graphic Star Baby Tee, From $13 (was $20) at Amazon
• Olycn Wide-Leg Sweatpants, $20 (were $25) at Amazon

Whenever you need to give this top a refresh, put it into a laundry bag, toss it into the washing machine with cold water, and hang it up to dry afterwards. Customers noted that it washes well without shrinking or losing its shape, and still looks brand new after several cycles. 

Budget-friendly, stylish, and comfortable, this top has unsurprisingly racked up over 3,500 five-star ratings at Amazon. “This shirt is so stretchy and super lightweight for the transition from summer to fall,” one reviewer raved. A second shopper described it as “super cute and on trend.”

Related: Walmart’s New Faux-Suede Ballet Flats Are a ‘Must-Have for Fall’ and Look ‘High-End’

You can channel the new millennium era all fall long when you snag this adorable bell-sleeve top at Amazon for just $8 ahead of the retailer’s October Prime Day event! 

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.

Every generation has that one song pinpoints exactly how they felt after a bad date. If you came of age in the late 90s, that song was probably “No Scrubs,” and 27 years later TLC‘s signature anthem is climbing the charts all over again.

Why? Well, in Prime Video‘s romantic drama The Last Sunrise, which premiered Aug. 26, Maia Reficco‘s character, Ry, takes the karaoke stage and performs “No Scrubs” straight at Julián (Fernando Líndez) after he ghosts her. The film, adapted from Anna Todd‘s 2025 novel, also stars Eva Longoria as Ry’s mother.

That sent viewers scrambling back to seek out the original recording. The song re-entered the UK’s Official Singles Chart at No. 23, its first appearance on that ranking in 27 years, and reached a new high of No. 46 on the Official Streaming chart. It also rose to No. 3 on the Official Hip Hop and R&B Singles chart, a position it had not held since June 1999. During its original run, the song peaked at No. 3 in the UK, still the group’s highest-charting single there.

Related: Carmen Electra Just Revealed Prince’s Nightly Request

The surge carried over to Billboard. “No Scrubs” debuted at No. 113 on the Billboard Global 200 and No. 149 on the Global Excl. U.S. chart, the group’s first entries on either list. On Billboard’s R&B Streaming Songs chart, the track jumped from No. 15 to No. 7, giving TLC its first top 10 on that tally.

The song itself started as a car ride. Songwriter Kandi Burruss told NPR she was driving around Atlanta with a friend, venting about two men they were dating, when she began freestyling over an instrumental from producer Kevin “She’kspere” Briggs. She and fellow Xscape member Tameka “Tiny” Cottle finished a demo they planned to keep for themselves before being persuaded to give it to TLC.

The group made it their own. “No Scrubs” was the first TLC single with Rozonda “Chilli” Thomas on lead vocals, and it held the No. 1 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 for four consecutive weeks. Speaking with Entertainment Tonight in 2025, Burruss called the song “my gift that keeps on giving back to me,” noting how often other artists sample it.

The renewed comes in busy year for the group. T-Boz and Chilli, who have performed as a duo since Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes died in 2002, co-headlined the It’s Iconic tour with Salt-N-Pepa and En Vogue in 2026, and CrazySexyCool: The TLC Musical premiered at Washington, D.C.’s Arena Stage this summer. As a result, some listeners who were not even born when “Scrubs” first topped the charts are now grooving like it it’s the 90s all over again.

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Kate Upton‘s husband, baseball player Justin Verlander, had one last milestone moment on the field in his final game thanks to his 7-year-old daughter.

In an already historic day, as the pitcher for the Detroit Tigers was capping off his 21-year career while playing against the Pittsburgh Pirates on Saturday, his daughter Genevieve (or “Vivi”) came running to the pitcher’s mound to celebrate her dad’s final inning.

Verlander, who had pitched just over five innings in the game, couldn’t hold back his tears, according to an Instagram video shared by the MLB’s official account.

“Justin Verlander says goodbye to his teammates, and then holds his daughter’s hand as he leaves the mound,” read the clip’s caption.

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And fans in the comments couldn’t hold back their emotions either.

“That hug….😭 ❤️,” one commenter wrote. “@justinverlander Go enjoy your family! Well-deserved!”

“My screen got blurry all of [a] sudden,” said another.

“It’s the deep breath he takes just after stepping off the mound that gets me,” observed a third. “Holding his daughter’s hand and taking in the significance of that step.”

While the moment may have seemed spontaneous, Tigers coach A.J. Hinch revealed he and Upton had planned it while speaking at a press conference following the game.

“We really wanted to find a way to give him a moment he wouldn’t expect…so I contacted Kate,” Hinch said in footage captured by sportscaster Brad Galli. “A lot of conversations I’ve had with him, away from the Tigers, away from the field, have been about his pride in being a father, so to be able to share that moment with one of his kids…as he soaked it all in was just an incredible moment for all of us.”

Related: Derek Jeter Is ‘Just Like Every Other Parent’ Driving With His Daughter In Hysterical Video

According to MLB.com, Upton and their son, Bellamy, born in 2025, were also on the field to celebrate the significant moment. However, Vivi may have also stolen the show for the weekend as she threw the first pitch during Friday’s game in another celebration in tribute to Verlander’s career, per the Detroit Tigers’ Instagram account.

Verlander first announced his retirement in July in a letter he posted to Instagram, in which he specifically thanked Upton, whom he married in 2017, for being by his side.

“To my family, especially my wife Kate, thank you for standing beside me through every season, every rehab and every high and low. I couldn’t have done this without you,” he wrote.

Making the day even more perfect? The Tigers won 4-3.

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Billy Ray Cyrus is sharing one of his “most prized possessions,” a letter from the late Dolly Parton.

The 65-year-old singer-songwriter and actor posted a photo of the handwritten note to Instagram on Friday, Sept. 25. He explained in the caption that the “Jolene singer wrote the letter a few weeks after the duo first met in 1992.

Parton and Cyrus would go on to have a close friendship and musical partnership until her recent death. The country music icon died on Aug. 25 at age 80 following a brief battle with cancer.

“Billy, I’m glad to be working with you. I’ve been looking forward to it for a few weeks now. I’m proud of what’s going on with you. I too think you are special. I wish you even more in the years to come,” Parton wrote at the time.

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“I’m sorry I stammered and blushed when I met you but I’m just like all the other girls these days (just a little older),” the letter continued.

She then thanked him for autographing photos for her nieces.

“They will love me for it. Same goes if you need anything. Love Dolly,” she wrote.

In the Instagram caption, Cyrus shared that his two most important items are this letter and a letter from Johnny Cash, which sit right next to each other.

“They are the hearts and minds of two of my heroes that both took the time to express their most personal and sincere thoughts to an ole Kentucky Boy,” he wrote in the caption. “[Dolly Parton] gave it to me a few weeks after we first met in Chicago in the spring of 1992. ‘Achy Breaky Heart’ was just beginning to take off and ‘Some Gave All’ hadn’t even been released yet.”

He continued, “And soon after I received this letter, we’d go on to sing ‘Romeo’ together with Tanya Tucker, Kathy Mattea and Mary Chapin Carpenter. So many memories and moments with Dolly, from network television specials to Hannah Montana. More than 30 years later, we’d do our last song together, ‘Christmas Where We Are.’ Today felt like the right day to share it. Shine on, Dolly. ❤️”

If you’ve ever watched a baking competition show on Food Network and thought, I wish I could do that, welcome to the club. There’s something about watching someone create an edible masterpiece that makes you briefly forget that your last batch of cookies spread into one giant cookie. (Just slice it up like a pie—still delicious.) The fact is, most of us aren’t about to sculpt a 3-D sugar showpiece or pipe a buttercream garden by hand—and that’s where a good baking mold comes in.

The right mold does some of the fancy work for you, turning perfectly ordinary batter into something that looks like you put in considerably more effort than you actually did. It’s a little baking cheat code that we should all use. Look for molds that create fun shapes without requiring advanced decorating skills. Pour, bake, let it cool, and in an hour you have something that inspires the very satisfying words, “Hey, look what I made!”

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Crofton Pumpkin Silicone Baking Pan, $6.99 at Aldi

Aldi

A cute seasonal shape is especially handy when you want to bring a little personality to your fall baking without spending three hours decorating a single cupcake. Aldi’s Pumpkin Silicone Baking Pan invites your inner baking-show contestant to come out and play.

The vibrant orange pan has six pumpkin-shaped cavities so you can make a half dozen little cakes at once.

Related: Carnation Just Gave Evaporated Milk a Fall Makeover—Here’s How to Use It

Silicone molds are especially handy when you’re trying to create a specific shape because they’re flexible enough to release your baked goods without the wrestling match you can sometimes get with rigid pans. That flexibility is a big deal when you’re working with little details, like pumpkin ridges, because you’re less likely to crack, squish or accidentally leave half your masterpiece stuck to the pan.

In addition to the pumpkin-shaped silicone mold, Aldi is also selling varieties featuring cats and bats, skulls and spooky houses. Each pan is priced at $6.99, regardless of shape.

In fact, Aldi has lots of great kitchen finds right now. There are the cutest sweater-themed soup mugs and mini cast iron pans that are perfect for whipping up solo meals. And since you’ll need something to serve all of your pumpkin-shaped treats on—how about this dainty pumpkin serve board? It’s all in the Aldi Finds aisle right now.

Related: Tupperware’s Cheerful 4-Piece 80th Anniversary Canister Set Is a Space-Saving Wonder

Spirits fans are rejoicing with the latest launch from WhistlePig Whiskey, which takes enthusiasts from its picturesque farm in modern-day Shoreham, Vermont all the way to ancient Egypt. 

Related: This New England Hidden Gem Was Just Named the Best New Bar in America

Those in the know are aware of the brand’s exclusive yearly launch, The Boss Hog, which takes inspiration from a different culture, country, and flavor profile every year. From Siren’s Song, a rye whiskey aged in barrels seasoned with fig nectar and inspired by Greece, to The Juggernaut, a spice-forward rye inspired by India, with notes of saffron, cinnamon, cardamom, nutmeg, fennel, poppy, and black peppercorn, every launch is as unique as its inspiration.

Last year’s launch, Feather & Flame, was inspired by central Mexico and made with pulque, a fermented beverage made with agave, and xocolatl, a bitter and spicy drink made from cocoa beans. At the time of its debut, fans called it WhistlePig’s “best one yet,” but the 2026 version may dethrone its predecessor. 

Related: The United States Doesn’t Have an Official Whiskey–One Distillery Is Trying to Change That

The Boss Hog XIII: The Golden Pharaoh

WhistlePig Whiskey

The Boss Hog XIII: The Golden Pharaoh takes inspiration from Egypt, specifically from a recipe for tiger nut cake found on an ancient tomb. Made with a first-of-its-kind finish in barrels seasoned with Egyptian black honey and tiger nuts, the decadent whiskey gives notes of cinnamon and brown sugar at the nose, honey and molasses at the palate, and a subtle almond and oatmeal finish. 

If the sweet and spicy Feather & Flame is like a square of dark chocolate you indulge in after a meal, then Golden Pharaoh’s smoke and honey makes it a cigar at the end of the night. 

Related: Fan-Favorite Whiskey Distillery Teams Up With Liquid Death for ‘Perfect Collaboration’

“Through our research, we came across a tiger nut cake recipe carved into the side of a tomb dating back more than 3,000 years. We learned that tiger nuts and black honey were a true taste of the Egyptian land and its people, and that really resonated with us,” said Meghan Ireland, Head Blender at WhistlePig, in a statement shared with Parade. “We recreated the recipe on our farm and fell in love with the flavor combination. That led us to experiment with the finishing for this year’s The Boss Hog to see what those flavors could do to Rye whiskey. We were not disappointed!”

A 750-milliliter bottle of this year’s launch is available at spirits retailers nationwide for a suggested retail price of $599.99. Fans are already raving about it on social media, taking to WhistlePig’s Instagram comments to say that they “need” to try it, with some sharing that they already “got my case of it!”

Next: Why Woodford Reserve Finished Its New Limited-Edition Bourbon in Wine Barrels

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If you love the cozy look of French country decor, updating your bedding is one of the easiest ways to bring the style home. Classic toile prints, soft colors, and vintage-inspired patterns can make a bedroom feel warm and inviting without requiring a full room makeover.

The Bird Toile 3-Piece Comforter Set at Macy’s makes it easy to channel the trendy aesthetic for less. Right now, it’s on sale for just $25, down from $80 — that’s 69% off. The set features a classic bird toile print in elegant sage and white, bringing a French-countryside feel to your bed. For anyone looking for bedding that looks good and feels soft, this comforter is an easy pick.

Macy’s Bird Toile 3-Piece Comforter Set, $25 (was $80) at Macy’s 

Courtesy of Macy's

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You can shop this comforter set in twin/twin XL, full/queen, and king-sized options, which are all on sale for the same price. The full/queen comforter measures 90 inches by 90 inches, while the king is larger at 104 inches by 90 inches. The twin/twin XL comes with a 66-inch by 90-inch comforter. Just keep in mind that the full/queen and king sets come with two matching shams, while the twin/twin XL is a two-piece set with a single sham. 

Made from 100% polyester, the set is great for year-round use. It works on its own as the weather cools and layers easily under a blanket once winter sets in. One reviewer said it’ll be “great for cool weather,” while another shared that it was “great quality for the price.”

Shoppers had plenty of additional good things to say about this “pretty” bedding find. One said it brought “a fresh new look” to their bedroom while another said it was “soft and durable.” The set is machine washable, making it an easy, low-maintenance pick for everyday use.

Related: Turn Your Bedroom Into a Winter Wonderland With Macy’s New Christmas Comforter Sets

Whether you’re refreshing your own room or a guest bed for the season, the Macy’s Bird Toile 3-Piece Comforter Set is a budget-friendly way to cozy up your bed for the fall season. Head to Macy’s to grab it while it’s nearly 70% off!

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It’s been a long summer for comedy fans, with no new episodes of Saturday Night Live to keep us going. But autumn is here at last, and with it, all-new episodes of the most iconic sketch show of all time…now in its 52nd (!) season.

Hopes are high for hilarious times ahead, especially considering SNL‘s 51st season included such standout moments as the “Goo Goo Man” sketch from the March 7th episode hosted by Ryan Gosling and Colin Jost’s Pete Hegseth in the very first cold open of the season.

But is tonight the night we’ve all been waiting for?

Here’s everything you need to know before you tune in!

Is there a new episode of ‘SNL’ tonight?

Yes! SNL kicks off its 52nd season tonight, Sept. 26, with the help of first-time host Jalen Brunson. It’s been quite a year for the NBA star, who helped the Knicks win their first championship in over half a century this June. With his SNL debut, Brunson will be following in the footsteps of fellow basketball icons Charles Barkley and Michael Jordan.

Brunson will host alongside musical guests KATSEYE, also appearing on SNL for the first time. The group is currently on tour, having recently released a new EP called Wild.

Who is hosting next week and who is the musical guest?

On Oct. 3, Dakota Johnson will host SNL for the third time. (She previously hosted in 2015 and 2024.)

Johnson, promoting her new thriller Verity, will be joined by hardcore band Turnstile, making their debut as musical guest.

What time does ‘SNL’ air?

SNL airs at 11:30 p.m. EST / 8:30 p.m. PST.

Where can I watch ‘SNL’?

New episodes of SNL air live on NBC and Peacock on Saturdays (they’re available to stream later).

Related: SNL Fan Favorite, Known for Unforgettable Celebrity Impressions, Announces Departure After 7 Seasons

Something shocking happened on the Saturday, Sept. 26, episode of CNN’s Table for Five. The conversation went beyond politics and the state of the nation to include a topic most people love: movies. But that wasn’t the surprising part. The surprising part was the film that was discussed.

During the weekly show’s final segment, “Unpopular Opinions,” when the panelists all share something they vouch for that might be unpopular, Tangle Editor-at-Large and co-host of The Fifth Column podcast Kmele Foster definitely dropped a wild claim: that Tombstone is hands down the greatest movie of all time.

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“It’s an unbelievable western,” the frequent CNN panelist said, “the very best film ever made.” He added that the Western genre is “the very best genre” before saying, “Watch it with your children, explain the violence away. This is cinema.”

View this post on Instagram The Real Story Behind Tombstone

Tombstone, a classic Western starring Kurt Russell, Val Kilmer, Sam Elliott, Bill Paxton, and Powers Boothe, hit theaters on Dec. 25, 1993. A dramatized portrait of the events surrounding Wyatt Earp, his brothers, and Doc Holliday in Tombstone, Arizona, it draws heavily on real people and events of the 1880s, including the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral and the Earp Vendetta Ride.

The plot follows Wyatt Earp, played by Russell, as he arrives in Tombstone with brothers Virgil (Elliott) and Morgan (Paxton), hoping for a quieter life. But the Earps’ conflict with the Cowboys escalates into the famous gunfight and a larger campaign of revenge. The film takes substantial dramatic liberties with the historical record, but its central characters and major events are rooted in Arizona Territory history.

With gripping historical roots, a stellar ensemble cast, and unforgettable dialogue, anchored by Kilmer’s legendary performance as Doc Holliday, the film has remained a beloved Western more than three decades after its release. But behind-the-scenes, chaos almost derailed it altogether.

The Movie Almost Lost Its Director

The film’s original director, Kevin Jarre, was fired roughly a month into filming, after which George P. Cosmatos took over. Still, Russell became heavily involved in keeping the production moving, including preparing shot lists. Kilmer later credited Russell with being “solely responsible” for the movie’s success.

Meanwhile, Russell later described Cosmatos as functioning almost like a “ghost director.”

“I backed the director; the director got fired, so we brought in a guy to be a ghost director,” Russell told True West magazine. “They wanted me to take over the movie. I said, ‘I’ll do it, but I don’t want to put my name on it. I don’t want to be the guy.’”

He added, “It was the hardest work of my life. Tombstone was so painful. Tombstone was so tough … it was hard physically to do—I got four hours of sleep every night. And I’m so happy that we got it made.”

Exactly how much of the film Russell directed remains debated. Kilmer later pushed back on the idea that Russell actually directed Tombstone, saying Cosmatos did direct the movie while Russell did an extraordinary amount of behind-the-scenes work. Kilmer specifically recalled Russell working on the next day’s shot lists and helping with editing after the production lost a month with its first director, per The Hollywood Reporter.

The Cast Had a Very Strange Way of Getting Into Character

Before shooting the saloon scenes, the cast reportedly listened repeatedly to the opening bars of Warren Zevon’s “Werewolves of London” to get everyone in the mood. The behind-the-scenes anecdote comes from The Making of Tombstone, with actors Michael Biehn and Kilmer recalling the unusual pre-scene soundtrack.

A 1978 rock track famous for its bouncy piano riff and quirky, deadpan lyrics about a dapper, cosmopolitan monster, it became a hit, peaking at No. 21 on the Billboard Hot 100. And imagining the film’s legendary cast vibing to the track before shooting one of the movie’s most memorable saloon scenes is a fantastic mental image.

There’s also a real-life Wyatt Earp connection: A relative of Wyatt Earp appeared in the film. Glen Wyatt Earp, often credited as Wyatt Earp III, was the historical lawman’s fifth cousin and a descendant of Wyatt’s older half-brother, Newton Earp. He played Billy Claiborne, a real-life enemy of the Earps who was present at the O.K. Corral gunfight and fled the scene.

Kurt Russell and Val Kilmer Took ‘Tombstone’ Home With Them

In another bit of fascinating film history, Russell and Kilmer took some of the film home with them.

After filming, Russell and Kilmer exchanged remarkably appropriate pieces of actual Tombstone history. Russell gave Kilmer a burial plot at Boothill Graveyard in Tombstone, while Kilmer had purchased an acre of land overlooking Boothill for Russell. Russell also recalled having his Wyatt Earp chair, along with his character’s hat and gun, photographed on the land as part of the gift.

“I give Val this present, and he looks at me, and he turns to his driver, and he says, ‘Give it to me.’ Because what I had gotten Val was a plot at Boothill, what Val had gotten me was an acre of land overlooking Boothill,” Russell recalled in a GQ interview. “Doc Holliday was all about death, but Wyatt’s all about life. I guess that pretty much says it all.”

More than 30 years after its release, one CNN panelist has declared it the very best film ever made, and it turns out, it might also be one of the greatest movies ever made that also has one of the strangest backstories.

Related: Country Music’s King of Gunfighter Ballads, With 17 No. 1 Hits, Would Have Turned 101 This Month

Big Bang Theory actor Kunal Nayyar famously played Dr. Raj Koothrappali throughout the show’s 12-season run. While Raj is usually awkward around women, he had one night of surprising romance with his neighbor, Penny (Kaley Cuoco), during the show’s season 4 finale, which aired in 2011. Many fans weren’t happy with the situation, mostly because Penny’s main love interest on the sitcom was Raj’s close friend, Dr. Leonard Hofstadter (Johnny Galecki).

In an August 2026 episode of The Big Bang Theory Podcast, hosted by journalist Jessica Radloff, Nayyar revealed that he enjoyed the storyline, despite the controversy.

“It was amazing. I was like, this is great. Imagine the tension, you know, in the show going, and then I was like, what’s going to happen in season five? Are they going to date? Are they not? Obviously, we find out nothing ended up happening, but yeah, I was all for it,” said Nayyar during the podcast episode.

When Radloff mentioned that the Big Bang Theory showrunner, Steve Molaro, was upset about the storyline, Nayyar replied, “Come on. It’s just a TV show. It’s not real life.”

He also referenced that Raj and Penny were barely intimate, due to his character’s excitement.

“Nothing happened,” asserted the actor while recording the podcast episode.

Kunal Nayyar Revealed How He Felt About Raj’s Ending on ‘The Big Bang Theory’

While recording The Big Bang Theory Podcast episode, Nayyar shared his thoughts about how his character fared in the show’s 12th and final season, which ended in 2019. He noted Raj still didn’t have a successful romantic relationship, despite his many attempts.

“I think it was a perfect ending. I think there’s something so poignant,” said Nayyar.

Nayyar also clarified that his character may have eventually found love.

“By the way, who knows? He may have found it in that, remember ’cause Big Bang never ended. We ended. We stopped watching their lives, but their lives continued on. So he could be happily married or he could be dating two girls at the same time. We don’t know,” explained the actor.

Checkers & Rally’s is turning 40, and the iconic drive-thru chain is celebrating its milestone with a campaign that’s taking fans straight into the “Flava Zone.”

The brand has teamed up with rapper Yung Gravy for “Fryway to the Flava Zone,” an ’80s-inspired new anthem that puts a Checkers & Rally’s spin on the 1986 classic “Danger Zone.” And because a 40th birthday apparently calls for more than just cake, the campaign also comes with a new lineup of seriously loaded menu items.

The retro-inspired music video begins with an ordinary couple enjoying Checkers & Rally’s. But after taking a bite, they find themselves transported into the colorful Flavaverse – an alternate, neon reality where flavor rules, Famous Seasoned Fries are famous for a reason and, according to the brand, there’s no room for boring.

It’s an appropriately extra way for Checkers & Rally’s to celebrate four decades. The brand has dubbed the milestone its “40th Flava Versary,” and Yung Gravy brings his own blend of throwback influences and modern-day swagger to the campaign.

“I’m a known proponent of flipping the Greats and making them ‘Gravy,'” the rapper said. “Working with Checkers & Rally’s on ‘Fryway to the Flava Zone’ was exactly that. It’s got all the fun, all the flavor, and all the Gravy energy.”

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The campaign also introduces the Flava Max lineup, with two new options starting at $3.49 at participating Checkers & Rally’s locations. The Flava Max Double features more than a quarter-pound of beef topped with Famous Seasoned Fries, American cheese, dill pickles and a choice of Frank’s RedHot Stingin’ Honey Garlic, Creamy Garlic Parmesan or new Smokin’ Chipotle Mayo.

There’s also the Flava Max Chicken Bites & Fries Box, which features crispy Chicken Bites tossed in one of the three sauces and served over a bed of Famous Seasoned Fries.

So while the chain may be celebrating 40 years, this campaign is looking firmly toward the future, or, perhaps more accurately, into an alternate ’80s-inspired universe where everything is bigger, bolder and covered in sauce.

If you’re one of those people who unironically still hangs a “but first, coffee” sign in your house, well, you might be onto something (even if that something isn’t on the cutting edge of interior design trends).

“Studies have associated coffee consumption with a lower risk of certain cancers, particularly liver and endometrial cancer,” Dr. Tingting Tan, M.D., Ph.D., medical oncologist and hematologist at City of Hope in Newport Beach, Calif, tells Parade. “Coffee contains a variety of natural compounds that researchers are studying for their potential health effects.”

These compounds include cafestrol, chlorogenic acid, kahweol, N-methylpyridinium and quinic acid.

“Research has shown that regular coffee drinkers may have a lower risk of developing several types of cancers. Some studies even suggest that dark roast coffee can decrease breakage in DNA strands, which, if left unrepaired, could lead to cancer,” Dr. Jamie Koprivnikar, M.D., hematologist and oncologist at John Theurer Cancer Center at Hackensack University Medical Center, adds.

Dr. Koprivnikar explains, “The potential cancer-preventive benefits of coffee can be attributed to a synergistic blend of its bioactive compounds, including chlorogenic acid, quinic acid, kahweol, cafestol, and N-methylpyridinium. Chlorogenic acid, a potent antioxidant, works to neutralize DNA-damaging free radicals and reduce inflammation. Quinic acid has been shown to induce apoptosis, or programmed cell death, in cancer cells. The diterpenes kahweol and cafestol exhibit anti-inflammatory and anti-angiogenic properties that can inhibit tumor growth and metastasis, and they also stimulate the production of enzymes that detoxify carcinogens. N-methylpyridinium, a compound formed during the roasting process, enhances the body’s own antioxidant defenses. Collectively, these compounds contribute to coffee’s potential anti-cancer effects through a variety of complementary mechanisms.”

Phew!

All that said, a very important component of what makes coffee good for you is how you drink it. Find out what oncologists say is the best habit you can have when it comes to your beloved cup of job.

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What Is the Healthiest Coffee Habit?

You’ll want to keep your coffee black or just with a splash of milk and to avoid super sweet and creamy options, because all that sugar and fat can easily cancel out any potential health benefits and anti-inflammatory properties of the actual java that they’re supposed to enhance.

“If someone enjoys coffee with a little milk, there’s no reason to think it suddenly loses its potential health benefits,” Dr. Tan explains. “The bigger concern is regularly turning coffee into a high-sugar, high-calorie drink.”

This means your beloved blended fraps should probably be only an occasional treat, not a daily fix.

You’ll also want to be mindful of the temperature of your coffee, as well as when and how much of it you’re chugging throughout the day.

“People respond to caffeine differently,” Dr. Tan notes. “Too much can cause anxiety, a rapid heartbeat, digestive symptoms or difficulty sleeping. Coffee can also worsen acid reflux in some people. People who are pregnant or breastfeeding and those with certain heart rhythm problems or other medical conditions should talk with their healthcare provider. I also recommend letting very hot coffee cool before drinking it, because regularly consuming extremely hot beverages has been associated with an increased risk of esophageal cancer.”

You can also drink decaffeinated coffee if you’re concerned about sleep disruptions, jitters or cardiovascular impacts.

“Decaffeinated coffee still contains many of the plant compounds found in regular coffee, and some studies have linked decaf consumption with health benefits as well,” Dr. Tan explains. “That suggests caffeine probably isn’t the whole story. Research on decaf and cancer risk is more limited, but decaf can be a good option for people who enjoy coffee but are sensitive to caffeine.”

Related: A Cardiologist Is Begging You to Brew Your Coffee Using This One Thing

Photo by Jocelyn Morales on Unsplash

Can Drinking Coffee Prevent Cancer?

Try not to get too excited, because correlation and causation aren’t the same thing (and because you’re probably going to freak your poor barista out, and they deal with enough nonsense every day as it is).

Research oncologist Dr. Simran Padam, M.D., APMMC, tells Parade, “There is evidence suggesting that people who regularly drink coffee may have a lower risk of certain cancers, particularly liver and endometrial cancer. The key word, however, is ‘associated.’ We cannot conclude that coffee prevents cancer, and I would not advise someone to start drinking it specifically for that purpose. Still, the findings are interesting and have been reasonably consistent for some cancer types.”

“It’s exciting to see positive news about coffee, especially in contrast to the news about other beverages these days,” Dr. Latonya Riddle-Jones, M.D., M.P.H., assistant director of clinical outreach at the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute, adds. “But moderation is still important with the consumption of all things. Coffee may be beneficial in reducing risk or time of onset for some cancers, yet harmful or increase the risk of others. We are unsure if these effects are causative or purely by association and most studies have been observational.”

The Oncology Brothers (Dr. Rohit Gosain, M.D. and Dr. Rahul Gosain, M.D., M.B.A.), agree that these findings should be taken with a grain of salt. “Meta-analyses show coffee can lower the risk of several cancers, particularly liver and endometrial cancers. We also see an inverse association with mouth, pharyngeal, and GI-related cancers, including colorectal cancer, as well as prostate cancer and melanoma,” they say. “Drinking more than two cups of unsweetened coffee a day has been linked to lower overall cancer incidence. However, it is crucial to understand that these are associations, not proof of causation. There are many potential confounding effects at play in these types of studies.”

Related: Oncologists Are Begging You To Stop Adding This to Your Coffee Every Morning

How Much Coffee Is Safe To Drink Every Day?

Before you run out and start funneling your local cafe’s house blend like there’s no tomorrow, take a beat.

“For most healthy adults, moderate coffee consumption is generally reasonable,” Dr. Padam advises. “In practice, I tend to think of one or two cups per day as a sensible range, although cup size, brewing strength, and individual tolerance all matter. Total caffeine intake is more useful than simply counting cups. The FDA considers up to approximately 400 milligrams of caffeine per day an amount that is not generally associated with adverse effects in most healthy adults.”

Related: Oncologists Are Begging People to Throw Out This Common Laundry Product

Should We Worry About Acrylamide in Coffee?

Acrylamide is a chemical formed during the roasting process that’s been labeled as a “possible carcinogen to humans.” However, experts say that this isn’t anything to lose sleep over, especially when you put it in the appropriate context.

“We simply do not have enough evidence to say that there should be significant concern with average daily coffee consumption,” Dr. Riddle-Jones says. “We see higher levels of these chemicals in average consumption of French fries. A serving of French fries delivers three to 10 times more acrylamide than a cup of brewed coffee.”

Related: ‘I’m an Oncologist—This Is the Cooking Oil I Always Choose’

What’s a Healthy Alternative to Coffee if You Don’t Love the Taste?

Those bitter beans ain’t for everybody (myself included). If you want a healthy dose of energy and antioxidants but can’t stand the taste of coffee, instead of loading it up with syrups and sugars, you have plenty of other options.

Dr. Riddle-Jones says, “Green tea is a great drink! Studies have shown consistent consumption can cause a modest reduction of bad cholesterol (LDL) and mild blood pressure reduction, cognitive support and anti-inflammatory effects. It may also help with weight loss and its fat-oxidation effects reduce risk most consistently for breast, ovarian, liver, colorectal, skin, prostate and oral cancers.”

Up Next:

Related: ‘I’m an Oncologist—the One Question I Wish Every Patient Asked Before Treatment Begins’ 

Sources

• Rahul Gosain, M.D., M.B.A., medical director of Wilmot Cancer Institute at Webster and director of Wilmot Cancer Institute Regional Infusion
• Rohit Gosain, M.D., medical director of hematology and oncology at the Roswell Park Care Network in Southtowns
• Jamie Koprivnikar, M.D., hematologist and oncologist at John Theurer Cancer Center at Hackensack University Medical Center
• Simran Padam, M.D., A.P.M.M.C., research oncologist and executive director of medical affairs at Worldwide Clinical Trials
• Latonya Riddle-Jones, M.D., M.P.H., assistant director of clinical outreach at the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute and associate professor of internal medicine and pediatrics at the Wayne State University School of Medicine
• Tingting Tan, M.D., Ph.D., medical oncologist and hematologist at City of Hope in Newport Beach, Calif.

Little People, Big World alum Jacob Roloff and his family are being forced off the family farm at the start of the new year—despite years of tending to the land for little pay.

According to Jacob, he has been “begging” his father, Matt Roloff, for years for access to the farm’s finances in the hopes of working to make the land profitable.

“It’s a wonder that the farm seems to have had no off-ramp to the show ending, and then 4 wasted years of betting on The Name, and nothing else, and now it may be too late for any fix,” Jacob, 29, responded to a comment on TikTok on Friday, September 25. “It’s a wonder that the farm seems to have had no off-ramp to the show ending, and then 4 wasted years of betting on The Name, and nothing else, and now it may be too late for any fix.”

When another follower remarked that she was dumbfounded that Matt would not allow Jacob “access and the ability to grow the farm,” the youngest Roloff son added, “I am entitled to think I could run it, apparently.”

“Naive to think opening more than 12 days would affect anything (???). And it has been denied that the show ‘had anything to do’ with keeping the farm going all these years. (Lol),” Jacob wrote. “I remember half a dozen times saying I wanted to stop filming, and getting told we would lose it all if we stopped. So we continued.”

Matt has been trying to sell a small portion of the family’s land for years. As it stands, 16 acres of the 109-acre Helvetia, Oregon, property—including the 5,825-square-foot home featured throughout the TLC series—is currently listed for $2.6 million.

@jacobroloff

Replying to @Ann I started asking to see the backend and started getting called entitled :/ just want to know what I’m working for and working to pay for — what are the bare minimum bills, what are the revenue opprortunities (surely, more than 12 days/year of pumpkin season), and where we can restructure. But I gotta know the structure to affect it #fyp #rolofffarms

♬ original sound – jacobroloff

Jacob made it clear that he would be willing to continue to work on the property under new ownership if and when Matt sells the land.

He and wife Isabel previously hinted that this could be their last pumpkin season on the farm, with Jacob claiming, “I certainly tried to keep the tradition going.”

“There was nothing too distinguishing about our pumpkin patch beyond the show, so definitely wanted to get back to growing our own pumpkins, growing our own corn, doing a corn maze and things like that,” he said via TikTok on September 15. “Couldn’t really get there with management, so, yeah, other things are happening, and I likely will not be here past January. Tradition [for] one more year! Come pick a pumpkin!”

We all argue about the superior breakfast dish, and whether it’s waffles, pancakes or French toast. But everyone knows pancakes reign supreme. Even restaurants like IHOP have their own National Pancake Day (in March), where they give out free pancakes when you dine in. And although the popular breakfast spot has its own day dedicated to pancakes, National Pancake Day is actually today, September 26. 

To celebrate, many restaurants are running pancake deals all day long! That’s right! All day! Whether you prefer to dine at Cracker Barrel, grab breakfast from Denny’s or live five minutes from a Huddle House, all of the best spots are running National Pancake Day deals. Here are some deals pancake fans can use to stuff their faces before the day ends. 

Cracker Barrel

Calling all Cracker Barrel fans! For today only, select locations are offering $5 all-you-can-eat pancakes. This offer is for dine-in customers only and includes their famous buttermilk pancakes, which are golden brown, buttery and crispy with a hint of sweetness. Your first plate includes three pancakes, followed by refills of two pancakes at a time. It includes syrup and butter, but extra toppings, add-ons and sides are an additional cost. 

Huddle House

For National Pancake Day, Huddle House is offering a buy-one-get-one (BOGO) deal. This deal includes their old-fashioned buttermilk pancakes and lasts all day at participating Huddle House locations. 

“Pancakes have always been at the heart of Huddle House, and National Pancake Day gives us a chance to celebrate that tradition with the people who make our restaurants special,” Jenifer Perrett, VP of Marketing for Huddle House, told Yahoo!. “This year, we’re giving guests even more reason to pull up a chair and enjoy a stack together. Bring someone you love, grab a fork and let us handle the pancakes.”

Recently, Huddle House also released its fall menu, which includes peach cobbler crumble French toast and cinnamon apple crumble French toast.

Perkin’s Restaurant and Bakery

Dine-in customers at Perkin’s Restaurant and Bakery can enjoy its Great American Pancake Trio for just $4.99. Choose from flavors: buttermilk, blueberry, chocolate chip and strawberry. This deal is available to customers today and tomorrow (Sept. 26-27).

If you’re feeling festive, the pumpkin pancake platter, maple bacon pumpkin flip platter and potato pancake stacker platter are all available for the fall. 

Denny’s 

While Denny’s doesn’t offer a specific deal for National Pancake Day, you can order the Triple Play Combo Meal for $9.99 and choose pancakes as your entree. This promotion allows you to order a drink, appetizer and entree for $9.99. There are also plenty of breakfast combos to choose from, including the Super Slam, Jr. Grand Slam, Everyday Value Slam or the regular stack of pancakes. 

As for flavors, there are so many to choose from: pumpkin pecan, plant-based pancakes, cinnamon roll, chocobanana, double berry banana and hearty 9-grain. You can also add mix-ins and toppings to your pancakes, including chocolate chips, blueberries, vanilla cream, fresh banana, strawberry compote and fresh strawberries. 

Related: The Cheesecake Factory’s Massive Menu Is Expanding

Romance author Danielle Steel might have written over 180 novels over the course of her six-decade-long career, but her proudest achievements are her children.

The mother of nine took to Instagram to gush about her youngest daughter Zara on her 39th birthday, and reflected on her accomplishments over the past year.

“VERY SPECIAL DAY FOR A VIP: My youngest daughter Zara. She loves music, rock concerts, travel/Hawaii. She is a wonderful friend, sister, and daughter. Her big accomplishment of the past year was losing 93 pounds, which is heroic!!! She looks fabulous,” Steel, 79, wrote.
“She is a deeply caring, compassionate person. We have fun shopping together, she’s a big sneaker expert, and knows every sneaker ever made!!!

She continued, “She had pink hair for about 10 years and is now a glamorous platinum blonde. She is incredibly kind to me and a wonderful daughter, and my best cheering team!! She is the youngest of 9 siblings. I hope you have a FANTASTIC birthday, and have a lot of fun with the people you love to have fun with. Have a great one, and a fabulous year ahead. I hope all your wishes come true!!! I love you so much, Mom.”

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Steel has nine children from her various marriages. She welcomed her first daughter, Beatriz, from her first marriage to French banker Claude-Éric Lazard in 1965. She had her son Nick with her third husband,  William George Toth, and five children — Samantha, Victoria, Vanessa, Maxx, and Zara — with her fourth husband, shipping magnate John Traina. She is also a stepmom to Traina’s sons Trevor and Todd.

Previously, Steel opened up about motherhood and made it very clear her kids have always been her top priority.

“What I care about most: my children. They are my life and always have been. I have always been a full-time, hands-on Mom by day, and wrote by night,” she wrote on her website. “I have nine kids, five daughters and four sons, so they have kept me very busy, and they are the joy in my life.”

Brody Jenner is a proud girl dad… again.

The 43-year-old reality star announced the birth of his second baby with sweet photos of his wife, professional surfer Tia Blanco, 29, and their 3-year-old daughter, Honey, meeting her little sister. The couple also shared the sweet moniker they gave their newborn, seemingly inspired by one major country music legend.

“We welcomed our precious Dolly Jane Jenner on International World Peace Day, 9/21/26. Mama & baby are in perfect health after an intense but quick unmedicated labor,” Jenner wrote on Instagram. “Tia, I’m so proud of you. Watching you become a mom all over again reminded me just how amazing you are. Our family is everything to me, and seeing it grow from 3 to 4 is a feeling I’ll never forget. Officially a girl dad to 2.”

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The couple announced they were expecting baby No. 2 back in March 2026, with a cute beach photoshoot holding the ultrasound photos. “Our little Honey is going to be a big sister this September,” they wrote.

Along with Dolly being born on World Peace Day, she was also born just a few days before National Dolly Parton Day, officially announced on September 25, 2026. Parton passed away in August 2026 at the age of 80.

There is also a family connection to Parton. Jenner’s mom, Linda Thompson, famously wrote Whitney Houston’s hit “I Have Nothing,” which was featured on The Bodyguard soundtrack alongside Parton’s iconic song, “I Will Always Love You.” She paid homage to the country singer-songwriter just one month before her granddaughter’s birth.

“Dolly Parton observed life, nature, animals, people — the big and small things… and then she wrote heartfelt songs about her observations and life experiences,” she wrote. “Dolly was an indomitable, beautiful, contagious light that spread her positivity through the world with her moving lyrics and universally loved music. Oh my goodness, how we will miss her.”

Congrats to the happy family on their new bundle of joy.

Fans of Rush can attest that some of the band’s most memorable songs are their lengthy instrumental tracks. For instance, Rush’s nearly 10-minute tune, “La Villa Strangiato,” off the 1978 album Hemispheres, has remained a favorite among listeners.

The bassist, keyboardist, and vocalist Geddy Lee gave some insight into the recording of the epic song during a fan Q&A panel for his 2023 book, My Effin’ Life. He shared that he and his bandmates, who included Alex Lifeson and the late Neil Peart, had written the track “right at the studio.” He also noted that the song features 12 distinct parts.

“It came together in a really fun way because we had all these individual parts. But we didn’t really have a place for them, so we decided to just stick them all together in an interconnecting way,” explained Lee, now 73.

He also explained that he and his bandmates wanted to record “La Villa Strangiato” in one take, which proved to be quite difficult.

“When we came to record it, it was really a motherf—r. I mean, it was really hard. So we tried for days and days laying that track down live, basically live, and finally we had to say uncle, and we recorded it in three sections and then edited them together, and that’s how the song came together,” recalled Lee during the 2023 panel.

He said, however, that they were able to play the entire song live when it came time to film the music video for “La Villa Strangiato.” He explained that Peart was “going through that period” where he refused to lip-sync or “pretend to play the drums” for the band’s music videos.

“He’s going through that period, which wasn’t the first time he said that. So we said, ‘Well, why don’t we just record it live at, I think it was Massey Hall [in Toronto]. I think Massey Hall was empty that day, and we booked a mobile unit. And we went over there, and we recorded a couple of songs. And “La Villa Strangiato” was one of them. And wouldn’t you know it, one take. And everybody said, ‘What? Why was it so hard?'” quipped Lee.

Lana Del Rey‘s husband, Jeremy Dufrene, is celebrating another year of marriage with his “precious lil wife.”

Dufrene marked the couple’s second wedding anniversary on Saturday, September 26, with a sweet Threads post dedicated to the singer—and he brought along plenty of rare personal photos for the occasion.

“Happy Anniversary to the most Beautiful and Precious lil wife. I love you so much❤️,” Dufrene wrote alongside the pics.

Among the photos was a special throwback to their wedding day, showing the couple saying “I do” as Del Rey wore a lacy dress and a blue bow in her hair. Other snapshots offered a more casual look at their relationship, including the pair posing together with a baby alligator and taking a helicopter ride.

Dufrene also included several selfies of the couple, with Del Rey all smiles alongside her husband.

Fans loved seeing the sweet moments on their feeds.

“Damn I was like ‘ooh she pretty’ just to be like ‘wait hold up is that Lana del Rey?’ lol,” one person replied, which got over 10K likes.

“I love when they break the 4th wall and show us their ‘regular people’ side too,” a second said.

A third commented, “‘Most beautiful and precious lil wife’ 🤭🥰☺️ I’m just happy seeing Lana being loved well.”

When did Lana Del Rey and Jeremy Dufrene get married?

Del Rey and Dufrene tied the knot on September 26, 2024, in Des Allemands, Louisiana, where Dufrene has worked as an alligator tour guide.

The intimate ceremony included members of Del Rey’s family. Her father, Robert Grant, reportedly walked her down the aisle, while her mother, Patricia Ann Hill, sister Caroline Grant, and brother Charlie Hill-Grant were also in attendance.

The singer has largely kept her marriage away from the spotlight, though she occasionally gives fans glimpses of their relationship. In April, Del Rey celebrated Dufrene’s 49th birthday with a collection of personal photos of her own. One showed an appropriately alligator-themed birthday cake featuring the playful message, “Happy birthday Gator! Always standing bayou.”