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The Tragic True-Crime Book About a Teen Who Faked Being a Billionaire's Son Sold for TV Before It Even Hit Shelves
In the early hours of November 29, 2019, a 19-year-old named Zac Brettler stood on the balcony of a fifth-floor luxury apartment overlooking the Thames. Security cameras at the nearby MI6 headquarters captured what happened next. He jumped, his body striking the embankment before landing face-down in the riverbank mud. A passerby found him at dawn.
Zac was the grandson of a celebrated London rabbi, a product of a good private school, and the son of loving, comfortable parents who had no idea who their child really was.
That's where London Falling, the remarkable new book by Patrick Radden Keefe, begins. And where it goes is far stranger, and far sadder, than any of them could have imagined.
The book published on April 7, and even before it hit shelves, U.K.'s A24 had acquired the TV rights in a competitive bidding process. That's not surprising. Keefe has made a career of finding the human story at the center of large institutional failures, from the Sackler family and the opioid crisis, to the IRA and a woman who vanished in Belfast. With London Falling, he's found something incredibly intriguing and personal, a family trying to understand their son after it's too late.
Keefe, whose previous books Say Nothing and Empire of Pain became cultural touchstones and critically acclaimed streaming series, spent years unraveling the double life Zac had constructed. From his early teens, Zac had begun passing himself off as the son of a wealthy Russian oligarch, moving through London's circles of new money and adopted glamour with a dangerous talent for reinvention. He landed, eventually, in the orbit of a London businessman and a feared gangster known as 'Indian Dave,' in whose apartment he died.
Related: 1986 Horror Novel Ranked No. 1 'Scariest Stephen King Book' by Goodreads
The police ruled the death a suicide because there was no evidence of a push. But Zac's parents, Matthew and Rachelle, couldn't accept that. They knew their son. What they didn't know was his other life. And so, in their grief, they began to investigate.
What they found forms the basis of Keefe's account. London, he shows us, is not simply one of the world's great cities. It has also become, in his words, a place where vast wealth moves through the shadows with remarkable ease, and where a teenager hungry for status could stumble into genuinely lethal company without anyone in authority noticing or caring very much.
'London Falling is a tale of money and fantasy, fear and deception,' one early reviewer noted, praising the way Keefe handles Zac as a real, complicated young person. His parents emerge as two people who loved their son completely, and are now left searching for a version of him they never got to know.
Stories about young people who construct elaborate false identities, inflated by social media, fueled by the allure of wealth, have been everywhere in recent years. But Keefe resists easy moralizing. He is more interested in understanding and that may be what makes the book so hard to put down. Readers seem to find themselves rooting for a family to find justice while wondering, alongside them, whether justice is even possible.
London Falling is published by Doubleday and is available now.
REI's 'Classy' $47 Herschel Backpack Will Keep All Your Essentials 'So Organized and Neat'
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During travel days and long commutes, you need a bag that can hold all of your essentials and look good doing it. Sleeker than a duffel but more spacious than a crossbody bag, more often than not, a backpack hits that sweet spot. Right now, REI has a fantastic deal on the stylish and versatile backpack for less than $50.Â
Normally $95, the Herschel Supply Co. Pop Quiz Pack is currently on sale for just $47. Thanks to its blend of retro aesthetics and modern functionality, Herschel has earned cult status â and finding one of the brandâs most popular styles on sale is a rarity. Available for 50% off in navy with a tan bottom or ivy green with a dark brown bottom, this is a backpack deal you won't want to miss.
Herschel Supply Co. Pop Quiz Pack, $47 (was $95) at REI Shop at REIBoasting a spacious 25-liter capacity, thereâs plenty of room inside to stash your daily essentials or even pack for an overnight stay. The signature front pocket comes complete with internal organizers and a key clip, so you won't have to dig through the whole pack for chargers, pens, or your wallet. Pockets on either side make it easy to keep a water bottle and a travel coffee cup within reach. There's even a padded laptop sleeve inside to keep your tech safe and secure.
Designed to withstand the rigors of daily wear or rough and tumble travel, this packâs eco-friendly design is made of durable recycled polyester with waterproof zippers to keep the interior protected. I own several Herschel bags and have purchased multiple as gifts, so I can attest to their quality and durability. They've held up through camping trips, hikes, baggage claim, daily college classes, and more.
Shoppers raved that the breathable back panel and comfortable padded straps make the bag a "perfect" choice for all-day carry on trips. To top it off, the carry-on-compliant size means it should fit neatly underneath airplane seats as a personal item.
Related: REIâs $24 Patagonia Hip Pack Is 'Perfect for Travel' and Ready for Every Spring Adventure
From busy students to traveling professionals, many shoppers were impressed by the "convenient" design of this pack. One reviewer shared how much they appreciated the "classy" look of this backpack compared to others.
A reviewer who has owned this backpack for over 10 years said that "the organization pocket is the best, and few bags offer anything that remotely rivals it." Another person who frequently used this bag on trips said the internal organizer keeps everything inside the pockets "so organized and neat."Â
Shop More Deals- Osprey Daylite Crossbody Pouch, $45 (was $60) at REI
- Herschel Supply Co. Classic Hip Pack, $17 (was $35) at REI
- Patagonia Atom 24-Liter Pack, $69 (was $99) at REI
Whether you're gearing up for a full summer of travel or need to replace your daily carry, the Herschel Supply Co. Pop Quiz Pack is destined to become your new go-to. Now just $47 at REI, this is an excellent time to snag the style before it sells out!
Donât miss future deals! Sign up for Parade Picks to receive our commerce teamâs curated selection of discounts and sales, twice a week.
H Mart's Latest Viral Frozen Find Will Make You Do a Double Take
H Mart has become known for its unique ice cream offerings.
Earlier this year, the US-based grocery chain specializing in Asian-style products went viral for its adorable âfruit bucketâ ice cream, designed to look exactly like real fruit.
More recently, another freezer find is turning heads and forcing customers to do a double-take because at first glance, it looks as though people are chomping down on an ice-cold steak on a stick.
Despite its realistic marbling, which has fooled plenty, the steak-shaped frozen dessert is far from the meat it represents.
When it comes to taste, many have praised it for being delicious, noting that it unexpectedly tastes like strawberries and cream.
The ice cream bar, from Nice Me, teases a "steak-style texture with strawberry milk flavors," which immediately caught the internet's attention.
The announcement came on April Foolsâ Day, which had many thinking the meat-like dessert was a joke. But influencers and shoppers alike have taste-tested it, confirming itâs very real (and sold at other Korean markets).
View this post on InstagramThe Instagram account Gangnam Market Chicago took a bite and initially joked that it tasted like someone put "meat and milk into a blender," before expressing that it's "really good" despite the possibly off-putting appearance, which is very detail-oriented, right down to the little black tray that would normally house a frozen steak.
To get that meaty texture, the account noted that the "strawberry is slightly icy," while the milk part is "very creamy smooth," so the whole thing comes together nicely.
'I believe you that it was steak flavored ice cream! I feel so betrayed! đ" one comment quipped, though everyone is probably pretty grateful that the taste is far from steak.
According to one social media account, a box with three pieces is selling anywhere from $7.99 to $9.99. Others have found it sold individually for $2.49.
@nhi_v0Who wants ice cream that looks like meat? đ„© Should I do a review? #viralicecream #steakicecream #steak #fypă·ă #tiktokpartner
⏠original sound - Nhi VoShoppers have also stumbled upon Chicken Chunk ice cream and frozen burger salted butter desserts, so your journey of ice cream that looks like food doesn't have to end with the steak-shaped offering.
@johnyusteak ice cream bruh #gym #fitness #chopped #motivation #tren
⏠romantic - fssWhile H Mart seemingly just got the steak ice cream in stock, many have reported not being able to find it at their locations just yet, but with viral items like these, H Mart's popularity is only growing larger by the day.
In March 2026, the supermarket chain opened up a brand-new location in Dublin, California.
With 2026 as "the year of expansion," per Food Trade News, H Mart has many other openings planned, along with the expansion of restaurant concepts including global specialty coffee brand Ten Thousand and premium bakery-cafĂ© LâAMI Bakery & CafĂ©.
And it doesn't seem like the viral ice cream is going anywhere anytime soon, so tell us, would you give the steak ice cream a try or be put off by the concept despite knowing it tastes nothing like uncooked meat?
Related: H Martâs Must-Have New Bags Are Giving Trader Joeâs a Run for Its Money
Dan Levy Addresses Possibility Of 'Schitt's Creek' Sequel After Catherine O'Hara's Death
Schitt's Creek star Dan Levy, who played David Rose on the beloved family comedy, recently revisited the filming location of the show and reflected on the experience, the cast and whether he could ever see a sequel for the show following the recent passing of Catherine O'Hara, who portrayed the hilarious Rose family matriarch, Moira.
In a video shared on the CBSSunday Morning Instagram account, Levy walked around the town in which Schitt's Creek was filmed, revisiting key locations from the show such as the location of Rose Apothecary. Levy also reflected on the experience of filming the show, including how warm and welcoming the town was.
When asked about the possibility of a sequel for the show, however, Levy became emotional and said, "No, not now...You can't," a reference to O'Hara's passing. Levy shared that he had been considering a possible sequel prior to the devastating loss of O'Hara.
When asked if he believes there might have been a Schitt's Creek sequel had O'Hara not passed away, Levy said, "Yeah, I was thinking about it." The actor then broke down in tears, describing how tough it was and how he had not expected to become emotional.
"A lot of memories with Catherine," Levy said. "It's what you have to hold onto is the memories of it all." He then joked about how, despite O'Hara remaining off the internet, "She knew how to meme."
View this post on InstagramFollowing O'Hara's passing in January of this year, many of her previous costars took to social media to express their love and admiration for not only her work but also who she was as a person. Macaulay Culkin's emotional message began by calling O'Hara "Mama," a reference to their time together filming the Home Alone movies.
Pedro Pascal, who starred alongside O'Hara in The Last of Us, also posted to Instagram with a picture of the two of them together and a message beginning, "Oh, genius to be near you."
1978 Soft Rock Hit Ranked Among 'Sappiest Love Songs' Revived This Singer's Career
Love songs have a unique ability to capture raw emotion and vulnerability, and one 1978 soft rock ballad struck a powerful chord with listeners around the world. The hit by Anne Murray was later ranked among the "sappiest love songs," yet it did exactly what it needed to in order to bring her back to the charts and revitalize her career.
American Songwriter ranked Murray's defining hit "You Needed Me" as one of the sappiest songs to have been released in 1978. Alongside it was the infamous movie musical track âYouâre The One That I Wantâ by Olivia Newton-John and John Travolta in Grease, as well as âToo Much Heavenâ by the Bee Gees. Among the three, Murray's track was exactly what she needed as her career was dwindling in popularity since her 1974 remake of The Beatles' "You Won't See Me".
The track was written by Randy Goodrum, with Murray having revealed to American Songwriter that she almost let the song get away. She explains having been listening to a lot of songs at the time, and the track ended up in another box labeled "Listen to again."
"And so, when I started listening again to these few songs that I had put aside, I had to sit down when I heard them. How could I have so casually set that aside? ⊠When I listened, I went, âOh my God.â I tucked it under my arm, and I put a hold on this song. I couldnât believe my good fortune," she explained.
Related: Iconic Rock Bandâs Era-Defining Hit Ranked No.1 âBest Album of the â70sâ
The country, pop, and contemporary singer tried her hand at the soft rock ballad and knew right away it would be a success. She reportedly broke down in tears trying to sing it for the first time, and she wasn't wrong. "You Needed Me" landed her back on the charts and became No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, but didn't top the music genres she was most known for, country and adult contemporary. It did top Canadian charts in those genres.
The track was included in her Let's Keep It That Way 1978 album, with it having earned her a Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance at the 21st Grammy Awards. Decades later, Murray celebrated the song by re-recording it with Shania Twainfor her 2007 album Duets: Friends & Legends.
"You Needed Me" was also featured in the CBS soap opera Guiding Light from 1980 until 1981 in the ongoing storyline. It was also used as a character theme song for Kelly Nelson and Morgan Richards. Family Guy also included the song with a cover by Seth McFarlane, where Murray also appeared as a guest star.
Lindsay Hubbard âTriggeredâ by Blind Item Rumor, Says Tipster âDidnât Hear Correctlyâ
Lindsay Hubbard is getting activated about a blind item rumor posted on the gossip site Deuxmoi about the Summer House star's conversation at Zero Bond in New York City.
While out with a friend over the weekend, someone reported that she talked about the reunion, and Hubbard took to her Instagram story to set the record straight. "All right, guys, let's just clear this up because I am very triggered by liars at the moment," she said in a video post.
"I'm not saying Deuxmoi lied, I'm just saying whoever submitted this information should just get their facts straight," Hubbard continued. "I went to Zero Bond yesterday for Easter with Gemma. I met one of my best friends. She had her daughter, I had my daughter, and anyone who knows me knows Gemma. I basically gave birth to my twin, and she is a very active, like rambunctious toddler who does not like to sit down, and she likes to explore and be adventurous and say hi to everyone, and meet the Easter Bunny and play and laugh and giggle and run and whatever."
Hubbard says she spent most of her time following her daughter. "I barely sat down," adding, "the two times I might have sat down with my best friend, my best friend asks me, are you excited for the reunion? I said, I'm excited to get it over with."
View this post on InstagramShe also says that her friend wondered if West Wilson reached out to her. "And I said, no, he has not, and she was surprised by that," Hubbard said. "So that was the extent of my conversation about this." She added that her friend's father was also there, so she explained the Wilson hook-up with Amanda Batula drama to him.
Hubbard then had a message to the person who submitted the blind item. "The two things I talked about were that to clear it all up, and I answered those two questions at the comfort of my own table," she said. "So whoever might have overheard that didn't hear correctly. That was it. Very, very benign answers on my part."
She is still trying to come to terms with the fallout and added, "Also, for all the bloggers and everyone reporting that we are taping on April 15th, as of now, that is not the date. So, unless you guys know something, then someone fill me in, but that is not the date that we're taping this reunion, and I wish it were, quite frankly."
Summer House is on Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET/PT on Bravo.
Michelle Pfeiffer, 67, Is Loving Life as a Grandma as She Gives New Meaning to the Phrase âEaster Hat'
Michelle Pfeifferis loving life as a grandparent, and she's embracing all the fun and games that go with it.
The star of Paramount+'s The Madison, 67, rose to fame in films like Scarface and Dangerous Liaisons, and later became a household name as Catwoman in Batman Returns. These days, she's a bigger star than ever, with her role on the hot Taylor Sheridan series, and her upcoming role in Margo's Got Money Troubles. But of all her roles, her favorite one is grandmother.
In a new photo, Pfeiffer gave new meaning to the phrase "Easter hat" when she shared a fun video of herself on the holiday wearing a hat featuring Pikachu, the popular Pokémon character.
"HAPPY EASTER! đđŁ," Pfeiffer captioned the reel.
View this post on Instagram When Did Pfeiffer Reveal She Is a Grandmother?The beloved star appeared on the Monday episode of the Smartless podcast hosted by Jason Bateman, Will Arnett, and Sean Hayes. During the episode, Pfeiffer revealed that she and her husband, Big Little Lies creator David E. Kelley, are officially grandparents.
Pfeiffer delved into the topic by first chatting about her acting work, explaining that sheâs not too eager to take off for long periods of time because she wants to be at home.
âI donât have time nor the desire to go that deep for that long and not be present,â she shared, Entertainment Weekly reported. âI realize I have a finite amount of time left and â I might announce on this show â that I became a grandmother last year.â
Pfeiffer continued, calling the experience of becoming a grandma âheaven.â
âIâve been very quiet about it and it isâ itâs heaven. Itâs ridiculous. And if I had known that I was going to be a grandmother, I wouldnât have taken on so much work, but Iâve enjoyed everything and Iâm really grateful. Iâve loved â I love each of these projects,â she continued. âAnd so the weird thing is that giving up that angst about the process has freed me up and I feel in some ways has made me better.â
While itâs known that Pfeiffer and Kelley have two children, she did not specify which one the parent is of her grandchild.
View this post on Instagram Pfeiffer Loved Embracing the Holidays as a GrandmaClearly, the holidays were fun for the grandmother. Pfeiffer shared a sweet photo of herself sporting a cozy sweater covered in felt holiday decorations by her little one.
"When your grandbaby turns you into a Christmas treeâŠ" she captioned the shot.
View this post on Instagram1980s Heavy Metal Legends Set to Perform First Shows in This State in 30 Years
Fire up the smoke cannons and secure the snake pit, Metallica is going to test the limits of the Constitution State this fall.Â
The Rock and Roll Hall of Famers have just announced two new shows scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 19, and Saturday, Nov. 21, at the Mohegan Sun Arena, located in the Uncasville area of Montville, Connecticut, inside the Mohegan Sun casino resort.Â
View this post on InstagramBoth shows are set to kick off at 8 p.m. but each will feature a different set list as part of the Grammy winnersâ âNo Repeat Weekendâ tradition. The shows mark the rockers' debut at the casino, but their return to Connecticut in nearly 30 years.
âMetallicaâs firstâever performance at Mohegan Sun Arena is a truly special moment as we celebrate the venueâs 25th anniversary,â Jeff Hamilton, president and general manager of Mohegan Sun, said in a statement. âThe 10,000-seat Mohegan Sun Arena has been home to so many unforgettable moments, hosting more than 3,000 events and welcoming over 15 million guests in its history. We couldnât be more excited to honor that legacy by welcoming one of the most iconic Rock bands ever and celebrating this milestone with fans.â
Metallica tickets go on sale this Friday, April 10. Thursdayâs show will be available here and Saturdayâs here. Sleep with one eye open, as the sale begins at 10 a.m.
'The Fall and Rise of Reggie Dinkins': Arthur Horrified as Ex-Girlfriend Crashes Doc (Exclusive Clip)
The Fall and Rise of Reggie Dinkins follows the making of a documentary following fictional NFL player, Reggie Dinkins, after he was banned from the league for life for gambling on his own games. And in a sneak-peek clip, viewers see fictional director Arthur Tobin's horrified reaction as an ex-girlfriend crashes the project.
Ahead of the Monday, April 6 episode of the mockumentary series starring Tracy Morgan and Daniel Radcliffe, NBC shared an exclusive clip of the cringeworthy moment with Parade.
"No, no, no, no, this cannot be happening," a suddenly panicked Arthur (Radcliffe) said as he stood up from a set at a table with Reggie (Morgan), Monica Reese-Dinkins (Erika Alexander), Reggie's ex-wife, agent, and manager, and his fiancée Brina (Precious Way).
"So this is Narcissa," Dikins declared. "She looks complicated."
"Thank you. Arthur, what a beautiful family you have!" Arthur's ex, Narcissa Ocean (Anna Camp), said," to which Dinkins pointed out, "That's a crazy thing to say."
"You let her in? Haven't you seen Sinners?" Arthur demanded, referencing vampires not being allowed to enter a building without an invitation.
"I'm sorry, who is this woman?" a confused Monica asked, to which Narcissa replied, "Honestly, I don't even know. I am on a journey."
Meanwhile, Arthur demanded, "How did you even find me? It's been two years. I moved across the country. I blocked you on everything. I always use a fake name at Starbucks."
"Well, Denise called me from your phone," Narcissa explained. "You blocked me, but I'm still your emergency contact. And Denise didn't want you going back to the post office, which is so funny because I am banned from my post office too. It's like fate. Because I was in Maryland looking for youâand I found you!"
Brina then interjected, "Hold up, do you teach Peloton?" To that, Narcissa responded, "I did. It just got too corporate."
The scene then cut to Narcissa leading a spin class while exclaiming, "Guys, I died for four minutes while getting my boobs done. And God is an old white guy. He just is. OK, let's go!"
As Arthur thanked his ex for bringing back his phone and attempted to lead her back to the door, Brina protested. "Wait, wait, wait, she came all this way, and you're not going to even hear her out?" she said.
Reggie explained, "My boy, AT, he's just looking out for himself. He said this is the woman that ruined his life. She's the reason he even has to do my stupid documentary."
Still, an exasperated Brina yelled, "I am sick and tired of the men in this house not listening to women!"
The clip ended with Reggie's son, Carmelo Dinkins (Jalyn Hall), wondering aloud, "What did I do?"
Catch new episodes of The Fall and Rise of Reggie Dinkins on Mondays at 8:30 p.m. ET on NBC and streaming the next day on Peacock.
âNCIS: Originsâ Sneak Peek Reveals Emotional First Meeting Between Mike Franks and K-9 Partner Gary Callahan (Exclusive)
In Tuesday nightâs âThe Beautiful Ballad of Gary Callahan,â NCIS: Origins does what it does best: It introduces the moment when Gary Callahan (Mufasa), a K-9 Special Agent for the NIS K-9 Unit of the Camp Pendleton Field Office, becomes a part of the story.
In this exclusive sneak peek, viewers get to see the first time that Mike Franks (Kyle Schmid) meets Gary Callahan.
'NCIS: Origins' -- 'The Beautiful Ballad of Gary Callahan' (1:12)In a surprising pre-NIS scene, we see that Franks is working as an animal control officer for the Oceanside Animal Service, whose motto is âFor Public Safety and Animal Welfare,â and he has a run-in with a woman who is not too happy with his service.
"I called two hours ago. What took you so long?â she demands to know. And when he doesnât respond, she continues, âI asked you a question.â
âI heard you,â Franks says. âI didnât answer because I didnât like your tone. Now, whereâs the dog?â
The dog â as yet unnamed â is hiding under the womanâs porch, sitting on a piece of cardboard from a flattened box.
Related: NCIS: Origins Star Teases the Fed Fiveâs Backstory â And Gibbs and Prideâs Feud (Exclusive)
Kyle Schmid as Mike Franks, Caleb Foote as Bernard âRandyâ Randolf and Mufasa as Gary CallahanPhoto: Greg Gayne/CBS
Mike tries to reassure him, âDonât be scared, buddy. My name is Michael. I am not here to hurt you. Iâll make you a deal. Iâll get you a steak if you just let me scoot you out of here on your box. Hey, pal. Weâre going to do this nice and easy.â
But Gary isnât so sure. He growls at Mike.
Then we cut to years later with Franks and Gary asleep in the same bed in Franksâ apartment.
NCIS: Origins airs Tuesday nights at 9 p.m. ET/PT on CBS. Streams next day on Paramount+.
Next, CBS Announced 2025-2026 Broadcast Season Finale Dates
This Classic Novel Was Ranked the No. 1 âNovel of All Time' on GoodReads
Some books never leave the conversationâand according to Goodreads readers, one classic novel still stands above the rest.
On the platformâs list of the greatest literary novels of all time, "Pride and Prejudice" byJane Austen takes the No. 1 spot, ranking ahead of other heavyweights like George Orwell's "1984" and F. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Great Gatsby."
Related: Best-Selling Mystery Novel Ranked the No. 1 âBest Twistâ Book on Goodreads
First published in 1813, the novel has remained one of the most widely read and beloved works in English literature, with more than 20 million copies sold worldwide. It follows Elizabeth Bennet, a sharp and independent young woman navigating family pressures, social expectations, and her complicated relationship with the wealthy and reserved Mr. Darcy.
What begins as a story shaped by first impressions slowly unfolds into something deeper. As Elizabeth and Darcy confront their own flawsâher quick judgments and his guarded prideâthe novel explores themes of love, class, reputation, and personal growth with a wit that still feels modern more than two centuries later.
Beyond its love story, "Pride and Prejudice" has also remained relevant because of its sharp social commentary. Austen captures a world where reputation can shape a personâs future overnight, and where marriage is often tied as much to financial survival as it is to affection. That tensionâbetween love and securityâstill resonates with readers today, helping explain why the novel continues to attract millions of new fans and maintain its place at the top of Goodreads rankings more than two centuries after it was first published.
Related:Â 2026 International Booker Prize Shortlist Revealed
Austen, who published the novel anonymously during her lifetime, would go on to become one of the most influential writers in literary history. Her work continues to resonate across generations, inspiring countless adaptations, retellings, and modern reinterpretations.
More than 200 years after its release, "Pride and Prejudice" remains the kind of novel readers return to again and againâproof that some stories donât just endure, they define the genre.
The novelâs staying power is also reflected in its massive readership today, with millions of ratings on Goodreads alone and a steady stream of new adaptations continuing to introduce the story to fresh audiences. From film and television to modern retellings, Elizabeth and Darcyâs story has proven endlessly adaptable, which is just another reason it continues to rank among the most beloved books of all time.
Related: Barnes & Noble Just Dropped New Signed and Deluxe Editions for 2026
1960s Folk Rock Duo Hit No. 1 With Controversial Movie Single 58 Years Ago Today
Simon & Garfunkel's "Mrs. Robinson" hit No. 1 on the album charts nearly 60 years ago today.
The song, which was released by the iconic duo in 1968 has become solidified as a Hollywood soundtrack classic thanks to its association with the film "The Graduate," starring Dustin Hoffman and the late Anne Bancroft.
Specifically written for the film, in which Hoffman's character, college graduate Benjamin Braddock is seduced by Bancroft's Mrs. Robinson, the song went on hit No. 1 on the U.S. album charts on April 6, 1968. The song also won Record of the Year at the 1969 Grammys.
The film's director, Mike Nichols, also included several other Simon & Garfunkel songs in the film including "The Sound of Silence" and "April Come She Will" in the film's soundtrack.
Related: 1968 Album That Gave Us 'Mrs. Robinson' Was Released 58 Years Ago Today
"He convinced us to do the music, and the music was supposed to be mostly original," Simon said onThe Dick Cavett Show in 1970 of Nichols. "But what would happen was, in order to fill a scene we would take some music and put it there just to see what music would sound like and a few of the times that we did that, it was so effective."
"Mrs. Robinson was made up on the spot," he added. "That was originally a chase scene and I was just riffing on the guitar...I had been fooling around with a song...and then that's how that happened."
He also mentioned that at one point "Mrs. Roosevelt" was supposed to be part of the lyrics but was ultimately nixed due to political connotations.
"The actual recording of that song was done after the movie was finished," he added.
Additionally, thanks to lyrics, "Where have you gone, Joe DiMaggio? Our nation turns its lonely eyes to you," and "Joltin' Joe has left and gone away," the song has also had ties to the New York Yankees.
"I asked myself later what it meant," he said during the interview, as the DiMaggio lyric was haphazardly added to the song. "I said, 'Well, it'll mean something.'"
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1996 No. 1 'Best '90s Country Album Recorded in Nashville' Was Inspired By a Beloved Movie Character
When you first started singing along to the title track of the 1996 George Strait album "Blue Clear Sky," the lyrics may have felt a little backward in your mouth at first. "Blue Clear Sky"? Is that what the songwriters meant? Not "clear blue sky"? Turns out it's exactly right, according to songwriter Bob DiPiero, and the song's inspiration came directly from the beloved 1994 Oscar-winning movie Forrest Gump.
No mistakes were made writing the George Strait hit on the album ranked the No. 1 'Best '90s Country Album Recorded in Nashville' by Nashville Adventures. In fact, the lyrics in the title song about finding new love when you least expect it fell directly from actor Tom Hanks' lips to DePiero's ears.
Photo by Sunset Boulevard on Getty Images
"This song got written because I went to see the movie Forrest Gump," DePiero says in an interview with The Boot. "[Forrest] was talking about his girlfriend, Jenny [played by actress Robin Wright href="https://parade.com/celebrities/sean-penn-wife-girlfriend-dating-history"], and how she would come and go out of his life. At one point, he says, 'And out of the blue clear sky, Jenny came back.'"
"I was listening, thinking, 'Hey! It's clear blue sky, it's not blue clear sky!'" he continues, "Just that little turn of phrase stuck in my head."
Related: 1982 Country Hit Ranked 'Best George Strait Anthem' Was Inspired By a TV Commercial
Indeed, it stuck. First his songwriting partners John Jarrard and Mark D. Sanders questioned the order of the words. And then Strait himself came asking about the phrasing too.
"So George comes on the phone and says, 'I'm from Texas ... and Texas is clear blue sky. You think it ought to be clear blue sky?'" DePiero recalls. "And I was shocked by the fact that George Strait was on the phone asking about this! So I told him about going to see Forrest Gump, and life was like a box of chocolates ... and that he said 'blue clear sky.' I told him the song is all about just giving up on love and then, out of nowhere, out of the blue clear sky, comes the love of your life."
The explanation apparently worked, and now fans have this clever classic song and album title forever. After a few turns hearing Strait croon it, it really does roll right off the tongue.
Watch a clip of George Strait performing "Blue Clear Sky":
@georgestrait"Blue Clear Sky" coming to you StraitFromTheStage. #LiveFromTheAstrodome #BlueClearSky
⏠Blue Clear Sky - George StraitListen to George Strait sing the title track "Blue Clear Sky":
This Real Housewife Uses a Toddler Leash: âNo Shameâ
Bravoâs brand-new Housewives franchise just debuted, and The Real Housewives of Rhode IslandâsAshley Iaconetti is already embroiled in a mom-shaming parenting controversy.Â
Who is âRHORIâ Ashley Iaconetti?ÂThis isnât the first time in the spotlight for the reality TV star. Iaconetti rose to fame on The Bachelor and Bachelor in Paradise. She even met her husband, Jared Haibon, in 2015 on season 2 of Bachelor in Paradise. While the two initially connected on the show, they didnât couple up right away. Iaconetti and Haibon rekindled their romance several years later and married in 2019.Â
The couple now has two children, Dawson Dimitri Haibon (born January 2022) and Hayden Cruise Haibon (born July 2024).Â
What do we know about the âReal Housewifeâ as a parent?Iaconettiâs Instagram is filled with family pics that show her as a hands-on mommy. In March, the reality star shared a parenting hack, writing, âPro-tip for parents who want to go to a restaurant with their little kidsâŠBring stickers and humility.â She also touched on one hot-button parenting issue (screen time), writing, âWe try not to put a screen on, but gotta go what ya gotta do to enjoy the company at the table sometimes.â
View this post on InstagramThe mom-of-two also shared a sweet birthday post for her eldest child, Dawson, in January. Iaconetti gushed, âYou are a true treasure to this world, Dawson HaibonâŠIâve never met anyone who shines so bright.âÂ
View this post on Instagram What did Ashley Iaconetti post about using a child leash?While her older posts have gotten plenty of compliments, a recent share to her Instagram Stories was more controversial. The RHORI cast member started with a sweet selfie featuring her two boys and the caption, âJared went to visit a friend in the hospital in Boston today so I thought, let me take the kids to the Boston aquarium while heâs there. I do not recommend doing this.â And of course, the mom was talking about the parenting perils of a solo outing with two little ones under four.Â
Another pic features Iaconettiâs kiddos looking at the aquarium⊠and Hayden wearing a toddler leash around his wrist. Obviously, the mom thought she might get flak for this photo. Before the backlash began, she added, âI have no shame in my toddler leash game. Dawson has an AirTag on. #safetyovershame.âÂ
The day of family fun also includes a trip to Chuck E. Cheese. Again, the reality TV star posted a âPro tip for parentsâ (and this one didnât include a child leash): âPizza, wings, games, little rides, trampolines, and play zone all in one. Unlike a lot of play zones, everything is monitored, and itâs small enough to keep your eyes on your kids without having to crawl in tubes yourself.âÂ
Dietitians Are Divided on Whether Dinner Timing Impacts Brain Healthâbut They Do Agree on This for People Over 50
There is a lot of conflicting information out there about the "perfect" way to nourish your body. It seems like every day there is new information on what, when, and how to reach your body's peak health, and on the steps to prevent its decline.
Currently, there is a popular debate over whether early dinner times can affect a person's cognitive health.
"We donât have strong evidence that eating dinner early directly improves cognitive health," Lauri Wright, a registered dietitian nutritionist at the University of South Florida, tells Parade. "The research linking earlier dinners specifically to improved cognition is still pretty limited. Much of the discussion comes from studies on time-restricted eating or circadian-aligned eating, and even those studies show mixed results. So, I would say itâs plausible, but not proven."
But some believe that there could be an important correlation between late-night dinners and mental decline.
"Your brain does a lot of its 'repair work' while you sleep, so a late dinner can interfere with that process," Ashley Kitchens, a registered dietitian and owner of Plant Centered Nutrition, also tells Parade.
One truth most camps agree on is that circadian rhythm misalignmentâor your sleep cycleâcan be significantly disrupted by late-night eating, which can impact your overall health.
Related: Doctors Are Urging People Over 50 To Stop Showering Every DayâHereâs Why
How Can Late-Night Eating Impact Your Overall Health?"What we do know is that eating very late at night can disrupt that rhythm, and that can, in turn, affect sleep quality and blood sugar control for aging adults," says Wright. "As we age, our metabolism slows down, our sleep patterns become more fragile, and for most people, blood sugar regulation becomes less efficient."
A 2023 study backs that up. Taking a deep dive into how timing and eating impact overall health, the study determined that the body is naturally most insulin-sensitive in the morning. Eating a large meal at 8:00 a.m. vs. 8:00 p.m. results in significantly lower post-meal glucose levels, even if the meal is identical. It also noted that melatonin (the sleep hormone) naturally impairs insulin secretion. Eating when melatonin is highâlate at nightâis correlated with impaired glucose tolerance, making your body less efficient at processing sugar.
"Eating earlier and at consistent times day to day helps support your body's natural sleep cycle (natural circadian rhythm)," adds Kitchens. "Personally, I eat between 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. and do 20 minutes of movement, like a walk, afterward. Eating earlier and doing a little movement afterward helps improve blood sugar and support digestion. Earlier dinners can also support better digestion, a steady weight, and reduced acid reflux."
Both Dietitians Agree There Is One Important Nutrient People Over 50 Should Have at Dinner"People over 50 should center their plate around whole foods and protein," advises Kitchens. "Because muscle loss accelerates as we age, incorporating high-protein foods into your dinner is critical."
While Wright emphasizes that there is no "perfect" time to eat dinner, she agrees that what you eat, especially over 50, truly matters. According to her, a balanced meal includes:
- Lean protein: Mains such as fish, poultry, tofu, or beans help maintain muscle mass.
- Fiber-rich vegetables and whole grains: These sides can help support gut and heart health.
- Healthy fats: Cooking with olive oil, nuts, and avocado is great for cardiovascular and brain health.
"What matters most for healthy aging is eating a balanced, nutrient-dense diet; maintaining regular meal timing; avoiding very large meals right before bed; and prioritizing sleep, physical activity, and 'social' meals," Wright adds.
Era-Defining 2000s Rock Band Announces First Album in 6 Years
The Strokes are so back.
The iconic New York rock band confirmed Monday, April 6 that their seventh studio record, Reality Awaits, is dropping this summer. The announcement came via a 13-second trailer posted to the band's Instagram, and true to form, it gave fans just enough to lose their minds without revealing much at all.Â
The clip features a retro sports car, an unmistakably Stokes tune playing in the background, and the tagline "In The Flesh, It's Even Sexier." No release date has been provided at this time, but the text did reveal the album would be dropping âthis summer.â
Fan reactions online have been exactly what you'd expect from a fanbase that has been waiting half a decade for new music.
View this post on InstagramâWEâVE NEVER BEEN MORE BACK,â one fan wrote, while another commented, âFEELS LIKE CHRISTMAS MORNING.â
Fans on Reddit theorized about a possible release date, with one noting, âI would assume June/early July release since their schedule hits a busier stretch after that, but thrilled whenever it is.â
âYES! Love the little jangle pop teaser music in the background. Sounds like something Julian produced on that Growlers record!â another Reddit user wrote.
It's been six years since The New Abnormal, the band's 2020 comeback record, so the announcement has been a long time coming. The timing feels deliberate, too, as the band is currently booked on a string of major festival appearances, including a set at Coachella this Saturday.
There is one elephant in the room worth acknowledging. Frontman Julian Casablancas recently revealed he no longer speaks to guitaristNick Valensi. How much the two were actually in the same room during the making of this record remains an open question. For most fans, though, it doesn't seem to matter much. After six years, they'll take it.
Your Perfect Comfort Meal, Based on Birth Month
Comfort foods hold a deeper meaning beyond their delicious taste. The foods we turn to when we seek comfort, calmness, or a sense of self often resonate with our instinctive preferences, nourishing us both physically and emotionally. Interestingly, our tastes can often be linked to the month in which we were born. Each month has its own unique energy that influences what shapes our personality and, therefore, what feels truly nourishing, satisfying, and comforting to us. Hereâs a list of comfort meals that align with your birth month, as suggested by expert astrologers.
Each Birth Month as a Comfort MealBirth months are listed. Disregard your birth date.
Learn more about your birth month:
Born in January | Born in February | Born in March |
Born in April | Born in May | Born in June | Born in July |
Born in August | Born in September | Born in October |
Born in November | Born in December
January â A Classic Roast DinnerIf you were born in January, you find comfort in meals that feel structured, complete, and reliable. A classic roast dinner of roasted vegetables and a hearty protein (maybe even something slow-cooked) hits that note perfectly. Itâs grounding and traditional, and it feels like something you can count on when youâre ready to unwind.
FURTHER: The Most Devoted, Loyal Birth Months, Ranked by Astrologers
February â Ramen or Noodle SoupIf you were born in February, you tend to like comfort thatâs simple yet still has a little personality. A bowl of ramen or noodle soup always hits. You can keep it low effort or add whatever youâre in the mood for, and that flexibility is part of what makes it so satisfying. Thereâs also something about having a mix of textures and flavors that keeps it from ever feeling boring.
March â CrepesIf you were born in March, you likely gravitate toward softer, more thoughtful comfort. Crepes suit this wellâtheyâre light, satisfying, and just special enough. Sweet or savory, itâs a meal to enjoy slowly.
RELATE?: The 4 Birth Months Most Likely to Travel the World After Retirement
April â Spicy Tacos (or Anything with Heat!)April energy has a spark to it, so comfort food here tends to have a little kick. Spicy tacos, a bold burrito, or anything with heat and flavor feels just right. Something bland or mellow would be far too boring! But something that wakes you up a bit, even while it comforts you, is exactly what makes someone born in April feel at home.
May â DessertIf you were born in May, comfort means luxury. Beautiful dessertsâcreamy, decadent, with fresh berries or rich chocolateâinvite you to slow down and savor the indulgence. There's nothing that tiramisu, macaroons, or even a classic bowl of vanilla ice cream can't fix!
NEXT: Which National Park Mirrors Your Soul, Based on Your Birth Month
June â Charcuterie BoardThose born in June associate comfort with ease and variety. Snack plates or charcuterie boardsâwith bread, cheese, fruit, and extrasâfeel relaxed and playful, offering options to enjoy slowly. The best part? It's convenient and fits your social personality! Shareable snacks win your heart.
July â Homemade Mac and CheeseJuly energy is deeply tied to emotional comfort, so it makes sense that something nostalgic and warm fits best. Homemade mac and cheese is rich, familiar, and genuinely soothing. Itâs the kind of meal that feels like being taken care of, even if youâre the one cooking for yourself.
August â Steak and FriesThose born in August find comfort in something that is a little elevated but still easy to enjoy. Steak and fries are a classic that strikes this balance perfectly because this dish is satisfying, a little indulgent, and doesnât try too hard. Thereâs something about a meal thatâs simple but done really well that just lands, especially when youâre in the mood to treat yourself without overthinking it.
September â A Cozy Soup and Fresh BreadBorn in September? You'll appreciate simplicity and care, so comfort meals for those born this cozy month are warm and satisfying. Hot soup and fresh bread check every box: nourishing and always the right choice at the end of a long day.
CUTE!: These 4 Birth Months Make the Best Grandfathers
October â Pasta with a Rich SaucePeople born in October appreciate depth in everything, even in their favorite comfort food. Pasta with a slow-simmered, rich sauce is both soothing and just complex enough. Sprinkle a bit of cheese on top, and you've got sensory heaven!
FUN!: Which Country Song Best Matches Your Personality, Based on Your Birth Date
November â A Hearty StewIf you were born in November, you welcome heartier comfort. A slow-cooked, flavorful stew is warming, filling, and satisfyingâreflecting something that comes together over time. November-borns will love this fan-favorite year-round.
December â A Nostalgic Holiday DishPeople born in December find comfort in meals tied to memory. A nostalgic holiday dish, especially if linked to childhood celebrations, brings you back to joyful times. Thanksgiving dinners, Christmas treats, and Easter ham can be enjoyed year-round!
UP NEXT:
5 Storylines in 'Outlander' Season 8 Episode 5 Taken From the Books
Outlander Seaosn 8 has remained relatively faithful to Go Tell the Bees That I Am Gone by Diana Gabaldon, and that was certainly the case with Episode 5. There were some minor changes that made a lot of sense for the overall storytelling and needs for the medium, but these changes didnât affect enjoyment.
In fact, one of the changes was necessary to avoid the same issue as Game of Thrones. Do you remember the complaints of âThe Long Night,â which made most of the episode hard to see? Outlander had to avoid that in some way, and it did it in style.
Roger Heading Out to FightRogerâs arc mostly came from Go Tell the Bees That I Am Gone. He does go to the battlefield, realizing that he canât just sit by when there are people younger than him going out to fight. He offers support as a minister while out on the battlefield, helping those crossover without fear of going to Hell.
A part that changed was meeting Denny Hunter at the camp. This is clearly to help keep some of the meetings and reunions as closely knitted as possible, because there just isnât the time with only 10 episodes in the season.
Young Roger Falling Into the Arms of SomeoneWhen Roger is blasted back on the battlefield, he gets a memory of himself falling backward into someoneâs arms. This is taken from A Leaf on the Wind of All Hallows, which tells Jerry MacKenzieâs story. Yes, thatâs Rogerâs father, who we met during Outlander Season 7.
Jerry does make it back to his own time, and he happens to be at the bottom of a tube station as bombs hit. Jerryâs wife spots him and throws Roger to him as the ceiling of the tube collapses, killing Dolly. Jerry dies after this, as he hits his head, leaving Roger orphaned, so he ends up living with his uncle, Reverend Wakefield.
Itâs going to be interesting to see how the memories play out for Roger. Will we get the full short story on the show?
William Proposes to AmaranthusYes, in Go Tell the Bees That I Am Gone, William proposes to Amaranthus. However, this is where things dramatically change, as Amaranthus turns him down. By the end of the novel, William is still single, but he has learned a lot more about whatâs going on with Amaranthus, his cousin Ben, and the rest of his family.
Itâs an interesting change for the show, creating a steamy moment for William and Amaranthus. This is sure to change with the next part that was taken from the book.
William Finds Out About Ben GreyUp to this point, William was sure that Ben wasnât dead, but he couldnât figure out what had happened. At the very end of Outlander Season 8 Episode 5, William learns the truth. Ben is a turncoat.
This is taken from the books. William is shocked to learn that his own cousin has switched sides, and there is a much bigger conversation to be had when it comes to this. The storyline is still playing out, but Amaranthus knows more than she is saying in the books, and that could be the case on the show as well.
Captain Cunningham Is Shot in the BackThere is a fight at Fraserâs Ridge, but the timing is slightly different. In the novel, itâs a dark night with a major thunderstorm. There is a huge mudslide, and a lot more people are hurt. The show has removed some of the battle and changed the location, but this was likely a strategic choice to make sure it was easy to see what was going on â plus, Buck had to fit into the story in some way.
What is exactly the same is the end of Captain Cunninghamâs story. He is shot in the back in the story, and he is left paralyzed. This leads to Cunningham and his mother having to leave the Ridge â and the colonies â and thatâs sure to come up in the next hour of the show.
Outlander continues to air on Fridays on STARZ.
Melissa Gilbert Sets Record Straight About Husband Timothy Busfield's Past Allegations in First Interview Since His Arrest
Little House on the Prairie star Melissa Gilbert set the record straight about her husband Timothy Busfield's past sexual assault allegations, in her first interview since his arrest for child sex abuse charges.
On Monday, April 6, Good Morning America paired an interview featuring Gilbert and George Stephanopoulos. The former Laura Ingalls Wilder actress revealed that she knew about two prior sexual assault allegations against Busfieldâone in 1994, which he settled, and another in 2012âbefore they married in 2013.
"I need to make something really abundantly clear. These allegations have been out in the ether for a very long time," Gilbert, 61, said of The West Wing actor, 68.
She continued, "When Tim and I got together, the internet existed. I didn't go into my relationship with him blind. I'm neither naive nor am I complicit. I talked to him about it. I asked him questions about it. I heard his side of the storyâwhich no one has ever heardâwhich is the truth. And when the time is right, and that is not now, Tim will tell the truth of all of these past allegations when he needs to."
View this post on InstagramRelated: Melissa Gilbert Breaks Silence After Timothy Busfieldâs Arrest
Additionally, Busfield's civil attorney, Larry Stein, addressed a claim that Busfield bought holiday gifts for the two boys he allegedly abused on the set of the Fox series The Cleaning Lady.
"Tim did not give the boys gifts; Melissa gave them gifts," he said. "Melissa gave them and every other child at a Christmas party a giftâevery child at the Christmas party, not treating them special or different than anyone."
Stein agreed when Stephanopoulos asked if the alleged victims' family "made it all up."
"The boys are victims in this case. They're victims of the parents, not victims of Tim," he stressed. "And when they were fired, they assumed Tim was responsible for it. The truth is, he was not."
On Feb. 10,  Busfield pleaded not guilty to four counts of criminal sexual contact with a child, all third-degree felonies. The Albuquerque Police Department (APD) issued an arrest warrant for him in January for allegedly sexually abusing twin actors, 11. One of the alleged victims was just 7 when the alleged incidents began.
âTheyâre all lies, and I did not do anything to those little boys, and Iâm gonna fight it,â Busfield said in a video released through TMZ. âIâm gonna fight it with a great team, and Iâm gonna be exonerated, I know I am, because this is all so wrong and all lies.â
A trial for Busfield is set for May 2027.
If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual assault, help is available 24 hours a day through RAINNâs National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-4673.
Hoda Kotbâs 3 Words of Support for Savannah Guthrie Upon Her âTodayâ Return Are Incredibly Powerful
Hoda Kotb knew exactly how to support Savannah Guthrie upon her return to Today on Monday morning.
As Guthrie made her return to Today on Monday, April 6, Kotb was noticeably absent from the set. However, her presence was palpable to viewers. In a touching Instagram post, Kotb shared a beautiful throwback photo of Savannah with her children, Vale, 11, and Charley, 9, on Instagram with the caption, âWith you xoxo.âÂ
View this post on Instagram Savannah Guthrie's Easter MessageGuthrie joined Good Shepherd New Yorkâs digital Easter gathering on Sunday morning and shared a touching message of hope as she navigates her own âseason of trialâ amid her mother's kidnapping. Guthrie said she has âquestioned whether Jesus really ever experienced this particular wound that I feel, this grievous and uniquely cruel injury of not knowing, of uncertainty and confusion and answers withheld in those darkest moments.â
Guthrie continued, saying âPerhaps this is too dark a message to share on Easter morning, but I have long believed that we miss out on fully celebrating resurrection if we do not acknowledge the feelings of loss, pain, and yes, death,â she later added,Variety reported. âIt is the darkness that makes this morningâs light so magnificent, so blindingly beautiful. It is all the brighter because it is so desperately needed.â
Watch below to hear Guthrie's message:
Related: Savannah Guthrie Returns to âTodayâ in Emotional First Show After Mom Nancyâs Kidnapping
What Did Savannah Guthrie Say Before Returning?During a sit-down interview with Kotb, Guthrie shared that she was apprehensive, but hopeful, about returning.
âI donât know if I can do it,â Guthrie said last week to Kotb. âI donât know if Iâll belong anymore, but I would like to try. I would like to try.â
Guthrie also shared additional information that previously hadnât been shared with the public, including the fact that back doors to Nancyâs house were found open and that two ransom notes the family received are believed to have been real, the piece shared.
To view Gutherieâs discussion with Kotb, click below:
View this post on InstagramInsiders told Variety that producers are prepared to âplay it by ear,â trying to work segments around their suitability to Guthrie. That means potentially avoiding anything too dark or too light during show segments.
