Parade
Farrah Fawcett’s Tragic Last Words Reveal Her Final Heartbreaking Worry
Known for her iconic feathered blonde hair and “it girl” status, FarrahFawcett was a defining figure of the 1970s.
It’s been 17 years since she died on June 25, 2009, at 62 years old.
The model and actress known for her role as Jill Munroe in the first season of Charlie's Angels was diagnosed with anal cancer in 2006. She announced she was cancer-free in 2007, but just three months later, it was revealed that the cancer metastasized to her liver.
The disease ended up taking her life. Fawcett remained optimistic throughout her illness, announcing her battle with cancer in 2006 with a statement titled “Positivity is a Necessity,” according to People.
“Throughout the journey of my life, I have maintained a strong faith in the power of the human spirit to overcome adversity. I deeply believe in one’s own positive will to overcome even the most daunting challenges,” she wrote.
Adding, “I am so grateful for the overwhelming outpouring of concern, love, prayers and compassion from all over the world. You are all a source of enduring strength.”
Fawcett documented her cancer journey with the help of her close friend Alana Stewart, which was later turned into an Emmy-nominated documentary titled Farrah's Story. She co-executive-produced the film, which premiered in May 2009, just months before her death,
Born Mary Ferrah Leni Fawcett in Corpus Christi, Texas, she was discovered while studying microbiology at The University of Texas at Austin. She moved to Los Angeles in 1968 to work as a model.
She transitioned to acting and is known for roles in projects such as The Burning Bed, Small Sacrifices, and The Guardian. She earned six Golden Globe nominations and four Primetime Emmy Award nominations.
Fawcett was married to actor Lee Majors from 1973 to 1982. She shared one child with longtime partner actor Ryan O’Neal, although the pair never married.
Mela Murphy reportedly told People the actress's last words on her deathbed.
“She was saying his name, ‘Redmond,'” Murphy said. “That was the last thing she said.”
Her son struggled with drug addiction and was in prison on drug related charges.
“I told her I’d take care of him, that I’ll always be there for him,” Murphy shared. “I said, ‘You can go now.’ It was just a few hours before she died.”
Oncologists Are Begging Women To Ditch This Common Hair Product
Few people—if any—enjoy thinking about cancer risk. It's a scary and emotional topic, especially if it runs in your family. But Dr. Joshua G. Cohen, MD, FACOG, FACS, encourages you to think and talk about cancer with your doctor. Topics to go over could include preventing cancer, understanding cancer risks and making healthy choices to lower your odds (or catch the disease early if you develop it).
This can help you understand that cancer risk isn't determined by a single factor, like genetics. Even the products we put in our hair every day can affect our health.
"Cancer risk is shaped by many factors, including age, family history, lifestyle and environment," Dr. Cohen, the medical director of the gynecologic cancer program at City of Hope Orange County, tells Parade. "Everyday products are only one part of that picture, but they still matter because they may contain chemicals that affect hormones, inflammation or how cells grow over time."
When you have a fuller picture of cancer risk factors, you can take steps to lower your personal chances of developing it. Dr. Cohen shares that regular checkups and preventive screenings, such as mammograms and colonoscopies, are two hallmarks of protecting your health. However, you can also make intentional choices about the types of personal care products we use, such as in our hair.
In fact, based on emerging research, oncologists are begging women to ditch one common hair product, saying data suggest it may contribute to cancer risk. Scroll on for their insights and the research they studied.
The Common Hair Product You May Want To Stop Using, Oncologists WarnOncologists are warning women that chemical relaxers can contain ingredients that could raise cancer risk. "Hair straightening products contain numerous chemicals, and some have been classified as known agents that cause cancer, called carcinogens, such as formaldehyde, phthalates, parabens and bisphenol A (BPA)," states Dr. Ashley Haggerty, MD, a gynecologic oncologist with Hackensack Meridian Riverview Medical Center and Jersey Shore University Medical Center in New Jersey.
Let's back up for a second. What precisely are chemical relaxers? They're products or treatments used to straighten hair.
"They are often used on tightly curled or coiled hair and commonly contain strong alkaline chemicals, such as sodium hydroxide in lye relaxers or guanidine hydroxide in no-lye relaxers," explains Dr. Samilia Obeng-Gyasi, MD, MPH, a breast surgical oncologist at OSUCCC-James. "These chemicals change the protein structure of the hair so that it becomes straighter."
Black women disproportionately use chemical straighteners. Unfortunately, Dr. Cohen points to research, including a 2023 study of more than 46,000 Black women, suggesting that they are also more likely to develop uterine cancer.
"This data indicates that certain hair relaxers may contribute to the risk of cancer in combination with other aspects of a person’s medical history and lifestyle," he says.
Dr. Cohen acknowledges the deep-seated and complex reasons why people may use these relaxers. "Hair can be a deeply personal part of one’s identity, culture and self-expression," he says. "Beauty standards, workplace expectations and cultural pressures have historically influenced their use."
Still, he notes that more recent evidence, including a 2025 study, suggests a potential link between chemical relaxers and non-Hodgkin lymphoma, pancreatic cancer and thyroid cancer.
Related: Oncologists Are Begging People To Throw Out This Common Kitchen Item
What Happens When You Use Chemical RelaxersThe chemicals in relaxers can straighten hair. But some ingredients are concerning for cancer risk.
"Some chemical straighteners and relaxers may contain or release chemicals of concern, including formaldehyde or formaldehyde-releasing chemicals, phthalates, parabens and other endocrine-disrupting chemicals," Dr. Cohen notes. "Some of these chemicals can interfere with hormone signaling, including estrogen pathways."
Uterine cancer can develop if estrogen levels are too high and not balanced by the hormone progesterone, and Dr. Cohen adds that chemicals in relaxers might also contribute to inflammation, oxidative stress or DNA damage over time.
"That’s important because hormones and chronic inflammation can influence how certain cancers develop and grow," he says. "At the same time, researchers are still trying to determine which ingredients may be most concerning, how much exposure matters and whether certain people may be more vulnerable than others."
Dr. Obeng-Gyasi echoed these sentiments. "What we do not know is exactly which ingredients, brands, or formulations are most responsible for the possible risk," she says. "Many studies ask people about general product use, but they do not always capture the exact product, ingredient list, or changes in formulas over time."
What To Do if You Use Chemical RelaxersData suggests that chemical relaxers can contribute to cancer risk, but Dr. Haggerty reminds us that "correlation does not equal causation." The research isn't definitive and is evolving. Still, "Best practices would be to decrease or avoid use as much as possible going forward," she says. "There is no research that has shown a safe dose.”
Dr. Obeng-Gyasi agrees that "more research is needed to determine which products, ingredients, exposure levels, and patterns of use carry the greatest risk." Still, she says that people who have used relaxers deserve information about the risks, and she advises them to discuss concerns or symptoms with their doctor.
There are also alternatives to chemical relaxers, so you can love your hair and feel more comfortable about your health.
"People who want alternatives should speak with a licensed cosmetologist or hair care specialist about options that fit their hair type and goals," Dr. Obeng-Gyasi says. "The main benefit is reducing exposure to harsh chemical straighteners. However, alternatives should still be done carefully, because excessive heat, scalp irritation or tight hairstyles can also damage the hair and scalp."
Up Next:
Related: The One Thing Oncologists Wish People Would Stop Storing in Their Fridge
Sources:- Dr. Joshua G. Cohen, MD, FACOG, FACS, the medical director of the gynecologic cancer program at City of Hope Orange County
- Dr. Samilia Obeng-Gyasi, MD, MPH, a breast surgical oncologist at OSUCCC-James
- Dr. Ashley Haggerty, MD, a gynecologic oncologist with Hackensack Meridian Riverview Medical Center and Jersey Shore University Medical Center in New Jersey
- Hair relaxer use and risk of uterine cancer in the Black Women's Health Study. Environmental Research.
- Use of hair straighteners and chemical relaxers and incidence of non-reproductive cancers. Journal of the National Cancer Institute.
The Retirement Habit Doctors Wish More People Knew About
Many people think of retirement as a time to kick back and relax. However, there is a growing group of adults over the age of 60 who are using their golden years for something surprising: Going back to school.
That's because a large number of retirees are continuing their learning in retirement, either pursuing topics that they've always wanted to learn about (but never had the time), or expanding upon the education that they already started earlier in their career. And it's doing more than teaching them something new, according to the neuroscientist we spoke with, it's having a remarkable impact on their cognitive function as well.
Why Hobbies Alone Aren't Enough, According to a NeuroscientistCatherine Franssen, Ph.D., a neuroscientist and assistant professor at Virginia Commonwealth University, says that a formal education offers unique benefits to retirees that can't be found in hobbies alone. And while she says that hobbies definitely come along with their own benefits—including improved cognitive function—going back to school can offer seniors something else.
"Formal education offers a unique combination of ingredients: intellectual challenge, structure, deadlines, social interaction, and a sense of purpose," she says. "Formal education often pushes a learner outside their comfort zones and can be a powerful tool to strengthen the brain's ability to adapt and compensate for age-related changes."
The Best Class to Take Isn't What You'd ExpectWhen it comes to what types of classes offer the biggest benefits, Dr. Franssen says there's a clear winner. "The best class is often the one that genuinely interests you," she says. "Curiosity is a powerful motivator, and people are more likely to stick with learning when they find it enjoyable and meaningful."
While Dr. Franssen says programs designed specifically for older adults can provide social support and perhaps reduce anxiety, there are many benefits to classrooms where the age range spans across many generations. "Interacting with people of different ages and perspectives can boost brain health for all involved," she continues. "As a professor, I love the complex and nuanced questions that older students bring to the classroom environment."
The Piece of Healthy Aging Most People Completely ForgetIf heading back to school wasn't on your radar, Dr. Franssen says you're not alone. That's because she says that people often forget about taking care of their cognitive health as they age.
"When we think about healthy aging, we often focus on exercise, nutrition, and medical care," she says, adding that retirement is not simply about leaving work and resting, it's an opportunity for reinvention as well.
"Continuing to learn helps people remain engaged with the world and with one another," she continues. "Learning provides so much more than information. It creates routines, social connections, goals, and a sense of identity and purpose."
How to Actually Do It, Even If the Idea Feels IntimidatingDr. Franssen says the first thing you should do to prepare to head back to school in retirement is to make peace with any feelings you may have. "First, recognize that it is normal to feel intimidated," she says. "Many adults worry that they have forgotten how to study, that they won't understand the technology, that they won't fit in, or that they'll be negatively judged by others."
Additionally, she says many older adults have been at the top of their professional career for some time, which can lead to feelings of vulnerability and stress when they decide to head into new and uncharted territory.
To help with that, she says it's important to start with a fun or exciting topic or class, or something that has really piqued your interest. Next, she suggests bringing a friend along to keep you company. "Be willing to ask for help," she adds. "The goal isn't perfection, it is growth."
Related: Retirement Shock Is Real—Psychologists Say Most People Never See It Coming
Sources:- Catherine Franssen, Ph.D., a neuroscientist and professor at Virginia Commonwealth University
The SSA Just Made a Quiet Change—and It Could Affect How You Manage Your Benefits
Managing your Social Security benefits may have just gotten a little bit easier. That's because the Social Security Administration (SSA) has recently announced that the portal that people use to access their benefits—and learn more about potential benefits—has changed, giving folks a new experience when they deal with the administration.
The SSA shared the news in a July 2026 Monthly Information Package published in June 2026, which highlighted some additional changes at the site. But the most surprising new addition may be the fact that the retirement calculator also has a new look, which should make it easier to figure out your retirement options.
The SSA's July Update Comes With a SurpriseEach month, the SSA shares some updates about what's happening with the administration. This month is no different, and the SSA revealed that a new calculator will now appear on the site, saying, "Now includes a colorful bar graph, making it easier to compare up to three estimates at a time to help you better understand your retirement options."
According to the website, you can log in (or create an account if you don't already have one) and see if you're eligible for Social Security benefits as part of your retirement. The calculator will also give you information on how much you can expect your benefits to be, depending on your age at retirement, which ranges from 62 to 70, according to the website.
Your my Social Security Account Now Has a New LookIn addition to the redesigned retirement calculator, the SSA says it has also created a more uniform user experience on its portal. "We’ve updated the online portal with a new design and enhanced functionality to better align with SSA.gov," the announcement said. "The revised layout improves navigation and usability, while maintaining access to all existing tools and features."
Some of those features include:
- Personalized benefit estimates
- Spousal benefit estimates
- Application status updates
- Benefit verification letters
Additionally, the announcement says this is where you can go to change your address or make updates to your direct deposit information.
What Does This Mean for Social Security Benefit Recipients?While the updates will make a difference to the interface the users experience when they log on, the SSA says that these updates are to make the online portal more accessible. This can allow retirees—and those about to retire—a quicker and more direct way to get updates on their Social Security benefits, as well as a way to directly manage their options instead of waiting until they can reach someone on the phone or through an in-person visit.
Related: The Social Security 'Penalty' for Working in Retirement Isn't What Most People Think It Is
Sources:Walmart's 'Fabulous' $19 Maxi Skirt Is So 'Gorgeous' for Summer, and It Comes in 4 'Pretty' Patterns
Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.
When it's hot outside, all you want to wear is fabric that's breathable and allows you to move freely, so you don't have to break a sweat. That's why we love flowy styles like a maxi skirt, because you can wear it on vacation or while running errands, and still look chic. If you're looking to be comfortable and fashionable this season, then take advantage of Walmart's deal on the Jinghuiyue Boho Maxi Skirt, which is 32% off right now.
The skirt originally cost $25, but has been reduced to just $19 during a limited-time flash deal. The available sizes range from S to XL, and the skirt is marked true to size, but there's an available fit predictor that will calculate your size if you're unsure. The skirt features a floral pattern that's being offered in four hues: navy blue, white, red, and yellow. The latter two options are perfect for those looking for a pop of color in their outfits.
Jinghuiyue Boho Maxi Skirt, $19 (was $25) at Walmart Shop at WalmartThe design features a tiered ruffle hem with an A-line cut. There's an elastic high waist with a drawstring so that you can adjust the maxi skirt as needed. The piece falls around the ankle area, and has an overall relaxed fit, so you can easily pair it with a form-fitted or loose top and still look chic. The style would look best with sandals, sneakers, or virtually any summer shoe that you like.
Jinghuiyue Boho Maxi Skirt, $19 (was $25) at Walmart Shop at WalmartThe skirt is made of 100% viscose, so it's recommended that you machine wash or hand wash it in cold water. Make sure to avoid ironing and bleaching, and wash it with dark clothes to prevent color from seeping into your lights. Shoppers love this bestselling skirt because the material is "very lightweight and just floats in a summer breeze," so it also looks great in photos.
Other customers described the skirt as "fabulous," "gorgeous," "so vibrant," "very pretty," "soft," "comfortable," and "beautiful." Some even adored the piece so much that they purchased it in another color after receiving the first one in the mail. The beauty of this skirt is that you can even wear it throughout the fall and spring, so you'll get a lot of use out of it.
Shop More Deals- Cushionaire Double Buckle Sandals, $43 (was $65) at Walmart
- Translink Slippers, $9 (was $18) at Walmart
- Prettygarden Casual Boho Dress, $34 (was $71) at Walmart
This stunning and comfy skirt is the perfect statement piece to wear throughout the season. Add it to your summer rotation while it's on sale at Walmart for just $19!
6 Hobbies That Can Earn Retirees Some Serious Cash
Retirement doesn't have to mean giving up the opportunity to earn extra income. Many retirees are turning longtime hobbies into profitable side hustles that provide both financial benefits and a sense of purpose. Whether it's sharing expertise, creating handmade goods, or caring for animals, the right hobby can generate hundreds or even thousands of dollars each month.
Before diving in, retirees who collect Social Security should understand that earnings from a side hustle can affect benefits if they have not yet reached full retirement age.
According to SSA, social security withholds $1 in benefits for every $2 earned above $24,480 for beneficiaries below full retirement age as of this year. For those reaching full retirement age during 2026, benefits are reduced by $1 for every $3 earned above $65,160 before the month they reach full retirement age. Once full retirement age is reached, there is no earnings limit.
It’s important to note, though, that withheld benefits are not permanently lost. Instead, they’re factored back into future benefit calculations.
1. PhotographyPhoto by Monty Rakusen on Getty Images
Retirees with a passion for photography can earn money through portrait sessions, event photography, pet photography, or by licensing images through stock photo websites. Many photographers start by covering local family events, graduations, or community activities.
Life After 60 confirms that, in addition to helping retirees earn extra income, it’s also a great way to promote mental engagement and cognitive health.
2. WoodworkingBuilding furniture, custom signs, cutting boards, and home décor items has become a thriving market on online marketplaces and at local craft fairs. Retirees with workshop experience can often turn a longtime hobby into a profitable small business.
Custom work generally commands higher prices than mass-produced items, especially when marketed locally. Projects can vary from a kid’s bookshelf to a coffee table, per Tradewell.
3. GardeningGreen-thumb retirees can sell seedlings, herbs, vegetables, flowers, or specialty plants at farmers' markets and community events. Some also generate income by helping neighbors design and maintain gardens.
According to Always Responsive Home Care, gardening offers not only physical benefits but also a therapeutic element.
4. TutoringPhoto by vorDa on Getty Images
Retired teachers, engineers, accountants, and other professionals can earn money by tutoring students online or in person. Subjects such as math, science, writing, and test preparation remain in high demand.
The flexibility of tutoring makes it particularly appealing for retirees who want control over their schedules.
5. Pet Sitting and Dog WalkingAnimal lovers can earn income by watching pets while owners travel or by offering regular dog-walking services. Pet care often requires minimal startup costs and can provide a steady stream of repeat customers. There are several platforms, like Wag or Rover, that allow users to build their own profile and earn extra money.
Many retirees appreciate the combination of companionship, exercise, and income.
6. Writing and Freelance Content CreationStrong writers can earn money by creating blog posts on social platforms like Substack, newsletters, website content, or editing documents. Businesses frequently hire freelancers for specialized knowledge and professional experience.
Retirees with expertise in industries such as healthcare, finance, education, or technology may be especially valuable to clients..
Don't Forget the Tax ImplicationsIncome earned from a hobby or side hustle is generally taxable. The IRS distinguishes between hobbies and businesses based largely on whether the activity is conducted with the intent to make a profit.
Hobby income must still be reported, while business income may trigger additional requirements such as self-employment taxes and quarterly estimated tax payments. The IRS also notes that individuals earning $400 or more in net self-employment income generally must file and pay self-employment taxes.
Good recordkeeping is essential in case of an audit. Retirees should track income, expenses, and any tax forms received throughout the year to avoid surprises at tax time.
Sources:There Could Be a New Geyser Forming at Yellowstone National Park Thanks to a ‘Hydrothermal Explosion’
It’s alive! Yellowstone’s geology, that is. A new geyser may be forming in Wyoming’s crown jewel national park. Over the last two weeks, park staff have observed signs of fresh seismic and hydrothermal activity near Black Diamond Pool, the site of a dramatic 2024 explosion that prompted rangers to close Biscuit Basin to tourists. Although far smaller than the eruption two years ago, the activity has created a new boiling pool in Biscuit Basin.
View this post on InstagramOn June 13, a static webcam installed in 2025 captured plumes of steam launching over ten feet into the air from cracks and ground vents around dawn. At the same time, monitoring equipment recorded seismic and infrasound activity beneath the same part of Black Diamond Pool. Later that morning, workers observed cloudy streams of hydrothermal water and sediment flowing out of the newly formed vents into the Firehole River.
Between June 14 and 16, the pool likely formed when the ground collapsed and filled with boiling water around one of these new vents just north of Black Diamond. The pool is currently about 350 feet in diameter, or roughly the same square footage as a two-car garage. Two days after it formed, a 20-to 30-foot geyser spouted from the pool, which scientists captured on camera.
View this post on InstagramIn a post to the USGS government website, members of the Yellowstone Volcano Observatory noted that scientists had been walking on the ground where the pool formed just days prior. The rapid development shows just how dynamic Yellowstone is, and how quickly the landscape can change– especially in geological terms. The land that currently makes up Yellowstone National Park has been volcanically active for 2 million years, or since the Pliocene epoch. That sounds like a long time ago, but it’s relatively recent in Earth’s history.
Related: Most Visited National Park Shockingly Isn't Yellowstone or the Grand Canyon
How Did Yellowstone Form?Around the time this corner of what is now Wyoming began to heat up, the Panamanian land bridge between North and South America had only just formed, and early humans were beginning to walk out of Africa to other continents. The Himalaya, Alps, and Rocky Mountains were still forming, and the Mediterranean basin was rapidly filling with a future sea after the Strait of Gibraltar gave way during the Zanclean flood.
Before Yellowstone began to boil, the geological hotspot that fuels the park’s famous geysers and thermal features sat under what is now southeastern Idaho, where you can still see volcanic calderas and ancient lava flows in Craters of the Moon National Monument. Over the millennia, North America’s crust drifted over that hotspot to the southwest, leaving a string of lava flows and calderas that were later shaped by the Snake River into the region’s iconic canyons and river plains.
Around 2 million years ago, that volcanic activity became centered beneath what we know as Yellowstone, with a series of cataclysmic eruptions that covered most of the Southwest and western plains in volcanic ash, reaching as far east as the Mississippi and as far south as Houston, Texas, and Louisiana. That activity continued every few hundred thousand years, blowing apart ridges and mesas and collapsing them into the 1,500 square mile Yellowstone Caldera.
The last major Yellowstone eruption occurred around 70,000 years ago during a period of global volcanic activity that included the Toba supereruption in Indonesia, which was large enough to cause almost a decade of global cooling and substantially impact human evolution. However, the park’s iconic geysers likely formed far more recently– around 15,000 years ago, after a large ice cap that covered Yellowstone melted and glacial activity further shaped the landscape.
Can You Visit the New Pool in Yellowstone?The pool in Biscuit Basin may have appeared very suddenly, but don’t expect this to become the “New Faithful” anytime soon. It takes hundreds of thousands of years to form a geyser cone, and geyser activity is as strongly influenced by regional precipitation patterns as by what’s happening in the magma under the surface. The new pool hasn’t yet been named, and it may or may not remain full of water as conditions evolve.
Due to recent volatility, Biscuit Basin has been closed to visitors for the last two years, including the Black Oopal Pool, Black Diamond Pool, Sapphire Pool, and Jewel Geyser features. For anyone whose curiosity has been piqued by this latest explosion, however, there are hundreds more geysers, mudpots, fumaroles, and hot springs to observe in Yellowstone – not to mention the Biscuit Basin webcam that captured the formation of this new pool, and whatever might happen there next.
The Top-Ranked Ice Cream Shop in America Is Hiding In Nebraska
Ask anyone about the best ice cream in their neck of the woods, and you’ll get answers rooted in a kind of nostalgia and fierce local loyalty usually reserved for hip hop artists and sports teams. Some regional ice cream brands like Blue Bell, Graeter's, Tillamook, and Ben & Jerry’s jumped beyond their borders to gain national recognition. But it’s hard to imagine an ice cream shop more all-American than the one that took the top slot in USA Today's 2026 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards: Omaha, Nebraska’s own Coneflower Creamery.
Named for a native wildflower found only across the Midwestern prairies, Coneflower takes local food seriously. The Creamery sources its rhubarb, berries, lavender, honey, stone fruits, grapes, sweet corn, pears, and even root beer from nearby farms and breweries. The gallons and gallons of fresh milk needed to run a creamery come from Burbach Dairy in Hartington.
Coneflower’s menu includes seasonal flavors like sun-ripened strawberry, tart cherry crumble, garden mint chip, Grandma Minnie’s Lemon Bar, and blueberry elderflower sherbert. A perennial favorite is the Blackstone Butterbrickle, an homage to a chocolate-toffee regional delicacy invented by Omaha’s historic Blackstone Hotel (now The Kimpton Cottonwood Hotel) almost a hundred years ago.
Related: This State Was Just Named the Happiest Place to Retire in America—and It's Not Florida
Don’t Sleep on Omaha, Nebraska’s Culinary SceneThat’s not the Blackstone’s only culinary claim to fame. In a addition to butterrickle, this is also the birthplace of the Reuben sandwich, which once fueled hotelier Charles Schimmel’s weekly poker games. It’s true that Omaha rarely gets grouped in with food scene favorites like San Francisco, New Orleans, or Charleston– and it’s more associated with steak than produce or confections. But with neighbors and history like this, it’s easy to see why both the Coneflower co-owners draw such inspiration from The Gateway to the West.
After studying business at the University of Nebraska in Lincoln, Coneflower founder and “scoopologist” Brian Langbehnmoved to Chicago for culinary school. He studied pastry and worked under the Bon Appetit’s 2005 Pastry Chef of the Year Christine McCabe at Sugar / a Dessert Bar, a buzzy dining concept that blended nightlife and sweets. After a stint on the Amalfi Coast cooking and sampling gelato, Langbehn returned to Omaha, where he joined the team at 801 Chophouse, a fine-dining steakhouse, eventually serving as executive chef.
Also working at 801 Chophouse was Katie Arant Chapman, a young pastry chef who had gone to the Metro Community College (MCC) Institute for the Culinary Arts in Omaha while cutting her teeth on dessert programs at several local restaurants, including M’s Pub and Le Voltaire. Like Langbehn, she left Omaha and expanded her culinary skillset in Napa Valley at restaurants and bakeries, including Bottega, Bouchon, and Coqueta.
Related: 6 Underrated Wine Regions in the U.S. That Isn't Napa
Ten Years, Three Locations and One Winning CreameryThree years later, Langbehn was ready to launch Coneflower as a small booth at the Blackstone, and persuaded Chapman to return to Omaha as the venture’s co-owner and pastry chef.
The Creamery opened at Blackstone in 2016, and by 2023, it expanded to a second space in Millwork Commons. That same year, MCC awarded Chapman a Sage Medallion, recognizing alumni who demonstrate passion and excellence in the culinary field. In 2024, Coneflower announced a third location in Olde Towne Elkhorn, just west of Omaha and the Boys Town suburb.
With two pastry chefs on deck, the ice cream is just one of the draws at Coneflower. Langbehn and Chapman developed the Creamery’s signature waffle cone recipe together. Chapman crafted Coneflower’s ice cream sandwich cookies and array of baked goods, some of which are an ingredient in flavors like cookies and cream, toasted coconut with angel food and king cake. Langbhen and Chapmen even insist on making Coneflower’s sprinkles from scratch.
View this post on InstagramConeflower has earned numerous accolades over the last decade. Eater included the Creamery in its 2018 list of 13 hot new restaurants in the Big O, as locals affectionately call it, and in a 2024 round-up of the 38 best restaurants in Omaha. In 2023, it topped Yelp’s list of the 100 best ice cream shops in the United States. Indeed, Coneflower has been named to USA Today’s 10Best every year since 2023, though this is the first time it has taken the top spot.
Before You Spend Big in Retirement, Hear This Expert's Take on Buying Boats, Motorcycles, and Vintage Cars
Whether it's a sailboat, motorcycle, vintage car, or other long-awaited splurge, many seniors view retirement as the perfect time to buy that big-ticket item. Before making a major purchase, Rob De Lessio, Director of Lead Advisors of Strategic Wealth Designers, spoke with Parade about why it's important to understand what you're really buying.
Boats: A Retirement Dream for Water LoversPhoto by MIGUEL MEDINA on Getty Images
A sailboat or motorboat can offer adventure, relaxation, and is perfect for fishing trips, watersports, and family outings. However, ownership comes with ongoing expenses, including storage, insurance, and maintenance. "Boats have long been jokingly referred to as 'holes in the water you throw money into,'" De Lessio says.
Although boats are assets that lose value over time and generate extra costs like fuel, maintenance, and docking fees, that doesn't mean your dream watercraft is a bad purchase. It simply means buyers should view it as a lifestyle investment rather than a financial one. "If it's something you've dreamed about for years and you can comfortably afford it, I say go for it."
Motorcycles: A Lower-Cost Adventure With Real TradeoffsPhoto by thianchai sitthikongsak on Getty Images
Compared to boats, motorcycles have lower upfront costs while providing a sense of freedom and excitement. It's important to remember that motorcycles are still depreciating assets and incur expenses like insurance, maintenance, and storage.
Retirees should also consider the risks and physical demands of riding. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, riders 50 and older went from just 3% of all motorcyclist deaths in 1975 to 33%. Proper training, protective gear, and choosing a bike that matches your physical capabilities can mean all the difference when enjoying the open road.
Vintage Car: The Best Chance of Holding ValueAmong traditional retirement toys, vintage cars may have the greatest potential to appreciate from an initial investment. However, De Lessio cautions against assuming every classic vehicle is an opportunity to grow your money.
Photo by Kevin Dodge on Getty Images
"Certain rare antique cars or collectibles may appreciate over time, but that's typically the exception rather than the rule," he says. While some collector cars become more valuable as the years go by, it could require significant time and investment if especially if restoration or ongoing upkeep is involved.
The One Option That Could Actually Pay You BackIf retirees want a purchase that offers both enjoyment and potential financial upside, De Lessio believes a vacation rental property deserves consideration. "A well-located rental property can potentially appreciate over time, generate income, and provide a place for you and your family to enjoy for years to come," he explains.
Related: Dave Ramsey Warns Retirees Mobile Homes Aren't the Money-Savers They Appear to Be
Unlike most boats, vehicles, and recreational toys, real estate may provide income, appreciation, and even estate-planning benefits. Still, it comes with its own responsibilities, including maintenance, taxes, and insurance.
The best retirement purchase isn't always the one with the highest return. Sometimes it's the one that helps create the memories you've been waiting years to make. As De Lessio puts it, "If you're buying one of those items, buy it because it brings you joy, creates memories and fulfills a lifelong goal—not because you're expecting it to improve your balance sheet." After all, retirement is about enjoying the life you've spent years saving for.
Joan Cusack Reveals Why Her Dislike for Los Angeles Made Her Ditch Hollywood
Joan Cusack is back reprising her role as cowboy Jessie in Toy Story 5, with the actor marking her return to Hollywood after 11 years. The actor opened up about what made her leave the star-studded city of Los Angeles early in her career.
The beloved two-time Oscar-nominated actor has kept a low profile since stepping away to raise her family in Chicago. In an interview with People, the Chicago native reveals that Los Angeles wasn't meant for her and the lifestyle she wanted.
“I never lived anywhere else,” she says. “I think a couple times I tried to go out to L.A., and I'd be in a coffee shop and the waitress would be like, ‘Oh my God, I just got a part doing blah-blah-blah.' Everyone's so beautiful. It's too sunny. I don't even like the sun, so I couldn't do it.”
The 63-year-old was born in New York before being raised in Evanston, Illinois, a suburb of Chicago. She began her career at the start of the 1980s with a role in My Bodyguard. She soon became known for hit films like Sixteen Candles, Working Girl, Addams Family Values, School of Rock, and voicing Jessie in the Toy Story franchise.
With her return to the spotlight, Cusack is revealing that her family was a main reason why she left Hollywood. She struggled between her actor career in Hollywood versus her down-to-earth life in Chicago.
“When [the boys] were younger, there was always that [struggle of] . . . ‘I should be home.' And then I'd be home and I'd be like, ‘I should be at work,'" she says.
Related: Reese Witherspoon’s Son Bears an Uncanny Resemblance to Ryan Phillippe at 'Elle' Premiere
In the end, Cusack decided to stay in Chicago to raise her two sons, Dylan, 29, and Miles, 26, with her husband, Richard Burke, an attorney. Before returning for Toy Story 5, her last credited film role was Mrs. Tammy Krum in the 2019 movie Klaus and in the 2020 TV series Homecoming. She's made it a point to stay away from the red carpet, with Cusack revealing why her return to the Toy Story franchise was different.
"In my life, I haven't really done that many of those things," Cusack revealed. "I think I turned the corner with my husband and was like, 'Whoa. What's going on here?' And then those guns popped the confetti out and I was like, 'Whoa. What's happening?'"
Alongside acting, Cusack also owned a gift shop called Judy Maxwell Home, named after Barbara Streisand's character in What's Up Doc?
Joy Behar Gets a Grim Warning From Colin Farrell on ‘The View’
Colin Farrell's visit to The View took a surprisingly dark turn.
During the Wednesday, June 24 episode of the ABC talk show, Farrell joined the co-hosts to talk about Season 2 of Sugar. But the conversation soon shifted to aging, death and how the actor feels about turning 50.
According to a report by Entertainment Weekly, Joy Behar asked Farrell about reaching the milestone birthday. Farrell said he has embraced getting older, but he also said people do not talk about death enough.
When Behar joked that she was not going anywhere, Farrell turned toward her with a blunt response.
"That grim reaper is coming for you as well, sister! All of us!" Farrell said.
How Joy Behar RespondedAccording to Entertainment Weekly, the longtime The View co-host quickly responded, "But not today!"
The exchange came after Behar broke into a reference to Dreamgirls, singing that she was "not going." Farrell then used the moment to make his larger point about how people talk about death.
What Farrell Said About Death Colin Farrell at Cannes in 2015.Photo by Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images
Farrell continued talking about death after the exchange with Behar.
He told the panel that death "shouldn't be this big, fearsome thing," while also admitting that he is not exactly comfortable with the idea himself.
He also said he gets scared during airplane turbulence and appeared to be censored during the live broadcast after swearing.
"I don't want to die! I want life to slow down," Farrell added.
Related: 6 Things You Probably Didn’t Know About ‘The View’ Ahead of Season 30
Why Farrell Was on 'The View'Farrell appeared on The View to promote the second season of Sugar.
Farrell discussed the new twists in the Apple TV series, reuniting with Tom Cruise after Minority Report, and his return as the Penguin in The Batman: Part 2.
Apple previously announced that Season 2 of Sugar premiered Friday, June 19, with new episodes released weekly through Aug. 7.
Target's 'Beautiful' Cast-Iron Kitchen Staple Looks Just Like a Le Creuset Style Nearly 7x the Price
Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.
When it comes to cookware essentials that never let you down, few tools rival the versatility of a good Dutch oven. A true one-stop shop for all kinds of one-pot recipes, this centuries-old kitchen staple is an easy way to level up your cooking without breaking the bank.
Speaking of affordability, Target is currently stocking a $65 Crock Pot 5-Quart Dutch Oven that bears a striking resemblance to a Le Creuset style nearly seven times the price. Offering many of the same features as its designer counterpart, this stylish find is a reminder that reliable cookware can look great without costing a fortune.
Crock Pot 5-Quart Dutch Oven With Lid, $64.99 at Target Shop It!Whether you're just starting to build out your kitchen or looking for easy upgrades that help you explore new recipes, the Crock Pot 5-Quart Dutch Oven with Lid is an ideal place to start. Designed to make one-pot meals an absolute breeze, it features a durable cast-iron construction that distributes and retains heat efficiently while also doubling as an eye-catching piece of kitchen decor.
Truly one of the most versatile tools you can have for slow-cooking, simmering, braising, baking and more, this Dutch oven comes with a self-basting lid that redirects moisture back onto your food, as well as an oven-safe construction up to 500°F. Even better, it's compatible with all cooktops, including induction, and features wide handles that make it easy to carry from the oven to the table.
Related: Aldi's Elegant $10 Kitchen Upgrade Looks Just Like a Designer Style Nearly 8x the Price
Reliable Design That Home Cooks LoveWhen you compare it to styles like Le Creuset's Signature Round Dutch Oven, it becomes clear why shoppers are rushing to Target for the better deal. With rave reviews and a five-star rating online, it's another reminder that it pays to shop around before dropping a ton of cash.
"What a beautiful crockpot," one shopper wrote, also noting that it shipped quickly and was carefully packed. "I love the color," another fan chimed in, agreeing with the first.
Others echoed the same sentiment, of course. One fan called it a "great product" with "very good quality," and said they were excited to try it out.
While supplies last, Target is offering a variety of colors to choose from, of which one fan dubbed the selection undeniably "beautiful," including blush pink, pistachio green, blue, red, slate gray and sunset orange. And if you pick one up for yourself, you'll be happy to know the enamel interior resists scratches, making cleanup easy from start to finish. Just be sure to hand-wash after each use rather than tossing it in the dishwasher.
Save yourself some much-needed cash and elevate your kitchen with this popular Crock Pot design. It's ready to use out of the box and will quickly become something you reach for time and time again. While you're at it, take a look at Target's Water Hyacinth Woven Side Table and Dolly Parton Stoneware 12-Piece Dinnerware Set.
Related: Sam's Club's 'Cute' $22 Lunch Tote Is a Must-Have for Summer Adventures
JCPenney’s 'Breathable' and 'Super Soft' 100% Cotton Tee Is 'Perfect for Warm Weather' and Now $7 in 23 Colors
Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.
It’s not always easy to put together a cohesive outfit. If you tend to struggle with decision fatigue in the morning, you may want to invest in a capsule wardrobe. It should be filled with classic and timeless pieces that you can create a plethora of outfits with, like JCPenney’s St. John's Bay V-Neck Cotton Tee. Right now, you can score it on sale for less than $10 for a limited time!
Normally retailing for $16, this cotton tee is marked down to $10. However, JCPenney is offering an additional discount, bringing the price down to just $7 if you use the code BEACHES at checkout. This top is available in a whopping 23 colors, including neutrals, pastels, vibrant hues, and earthy tones. Sizes range from extra small to XXL in petite and regular, and shoppers noted that it fits true to size. This top is also available in plus sizes ranging from 1X to 5X.
St. John's Bay V-Neck Cotton Tee, $7 (was $10) at JCPenney Shop at JCPenneyIf there’s one material you can rely on to keep you cool during the warmer months, it’s cotton, making this tee the ultimate summer staple. Made of 100% cotton, this tee is lightweight and breathable, allowing air to flow through. It prevents the fabric from trapping in heat and regulates your body temperature. This tee also works to keep your skin dry and non-sticky, as cotton is great at absorbing sweat.
Numerous shoppers raved that this top is “super soft.” Safe and skin-friendly, this tee is Oeko-tex Standard 100 certified. The fabric has been tested and is free of over 1,000 harmful chemicals and toxic substances. It should give you peace of mind, especially if you have sensitive skin.
This tee strikes a balance between relaxed and polished. It features slightly flared short sleeves and a loose silhouette that drapes straight down to skim your body without clinging to your skin. Balancing out the flowy fit and giving it more of a refined feel, this top boasts structured shoulders and a stylish V-neckline that highlights the décolletage. The hem ends around the waist, so you can either tuck it into your waistband for an elevated look or leave it untucked for a breezy and laid-back style.
St. John's Bay V-Neck Cotton Tee, $7 (was $10) at JCPenney Shop at JCPenneyOne reviewer described this top as “comfortable, breathable, and versatile.” A second shopper stated that the short sleeves make this tee “perfect for warm weather.” A third customer commented that it’s a “great everyday basic.”
Classic and versatile, this tee is undoubtedly a capsule wardrobe essential. Thanks to its simple design, you can style it with nearly anything in your closet to create both casual and dressy ensembles. Pair it with some jorts or leggings for an easy errand-running outfit, and just as easily don it with a skirt or linen pants for a chic summer-ready look.
This top is easy to care for, so you’ll be able to wear it time and time again. Whenever it needs a refresh, you can toss it into the washing machine and tumble dry it afterwards. Shoppers noted that it washes and dries well without shrinkage. A few customers also mentioned that they’ve had this top for a couple of years now, and it’s still holding up well.
Shop More Deals- St. John's Bay Cotton Long-Sleeve Shirt, $9 (was $13) at JCPenney
- Liz Claiborne Cotton Boat-Neck Tee, $13 (was $28) at JCPenney
- A.n.a Side-Cinched Cotton Tee, $16 (was $24) at JCPenney
Stay cool and look cute all summer long while wearing the St. John's Bay V-Neck Cotton Tee. Head to JCPenney and snag it while it’s still on sale for just $7. Don’t forget to use the code BEACHES at checkout to get it at this fantastic price!
2004 Romance Gets Named the Most Perfect Sci-Fi Film of the 21st Century
Despite being over 20 years old, the filmEternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, written by filmmaker Charlie Kaufman, is still receiving acclaim.
The publicationCollider recently named the Michel Gondry-directed movie the most perfect sci-fi film that premiered after the year 2000. Other hit films featured in the list of "10 sci-fi movies from the 21st century that are actually perfect" include 2025's Nirvanna the Band the Show the Movie, The Prestige from 2006, and Mad Max: Fury Road, released in 2015.
The publication complemented the 2004 film's unique commentary on the end of a romantic relationship, punctuated by sweet and supremely painful moments.
Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, which secured the Oscar for Best Original Screenplay in 2005, has a score of 93 percent on Rotten Tomatoes.
Michel Gondry & Kate Winslet Revealed Why They Were Drawn to 'Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind'In a joint 2004 interview, Gondry and actress Kate Winslet, who played Clementine, discussed what drew them to Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. Gondry shared that his faith in scriptwriting was renewed when he came across Kaufman's screenplay for Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind.
"I had read so many scripts that were really horrible. And I was really depressed because I came to a point that I really believed that scripts were boring. And I read his script, and I just realized that scripts could be just enjoyable and great and everything I dreamed of," said the French director.
Winslet also shared similar comments about Kaufman's script, stating that she appreciated its humor and poignancy.
"Underneath all the kind of complexities of the telling of this story, it's a very, very simple love story about two sort of social misfits, who were kind of meant to be together. And to me, the love that they have for each other is very sort of realistic, it's very true to life, you know. You can't have every day in a relationship as though it's the first day that you've ever met," said Winslet during the 2004 interview.
In addition, Winslet said she was pleased to have the opportunity to "play this crazy neurotic, wonderful American girl in a contemporary movie," rather than "the more period roles" she had done prior to being cast as Clementine.
Nobel Prize-Winning Songwriter Just Named America's Most Essential Musical Artist
Bob Dylan has added another remarkable distinction to one of the most celebrated careers in music history.
Ahead of America's 250th birthday in 2026, CBS News Sunday Morning asked nearly 90 prominent Americans to identify the songs they believe best capture the American spirit. The result is Sunday Morning's Essential American Songbook, an interactive collection of 250 songs spanning genres and generations. While contributors nominated works by everyone from Louis Armstrong and Woody Guthrie to Aretha Franklin and Simon & Garfunkel, Dylan emerged as the project's most-cited artist.
Overall, Dylan received 16 artist nominations, finishing ahead of Ray Charles with 13 and Aretha with 12. His 1963 classic "Blowin' in the Wind" also tied as one of the survey's most-selected individual songs, earning seven votes alongside Sam Cooke's "A Change Is Gonna Come," Charles' "America the Beautiful" and Aretha's "Respect." Only Guthrie's "This Land Is Your Land" received more support, with eight selections.
The list of people who chose "Blowin' in the Wind" underscores the song's remarkable reach. Among those who selected the folk anthem were bestselling author Stephen King, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, cellist Yo-Yo Ma, novelist Erik Larson, journalist James Fallows, opera star Renée Fleming and comedy duo Cheech & Chong.
Viewers will get a closer look at the project during a special edition of CBS News Sunday Morning, airing Sunday, June 28, and anchored by veteran journalist Jane Pauley. Along with Tracy Smith's report on the creation of the Essential American Songbook, the broadcast will feature performances by James Taylor, Sara Bareilles andJon Batiste, each performing one of the songs selected for the collection. The special will also stream on Paramount+.
Dylan's strong showing was also notable because it wasn't driven by a single song alone. As CBS News Sunday Morning contributor Bill Flanagan explained in an accompanying essay, support for Dylan was spread across multiple compositions, with "Blowin' in the Wind" ultimately receiving the most selections. That breadth of recognition helped Dylan finish as the survey's most-cited artist overall.
Released in 1963 on The Freewheelin' Bob Dylan, "Blowin' in the Wind" quickly became one of the defining songs of the folk revival. Its simple questions about war, freedom and human dignity transformed it into an anthem of the Civil Rights Movement, while artists ranging from Peter, Paul and Mary to Stevie Wonder have recorded their own versions over the decades.
The project itself was created to mark the nation's semiquincentennial, with CBS News Sunday Morning inviting musicians, writers, historians, business leaders, journalists and public figures to each nominate three American songs they felt belonged in the country's musical canon. Contributors included Joan Baez, Cyndi Lauper, Jeff Bridges, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, David Byrne, Ken Burns, Mark Cuban and many others.
Flanagan argues that American music has always been defined by the blending of cultures and traditions, writing that songs "travel like the wind." That philosophy is reflected throughout the final collection, which ranges from Broadway standards and jazz classics to country, rock, gospel, hip-hop and folk.
The survey also produced a few surprises. Paul Simon's "American Tune" earned six votes and his hit song with Art Garfunkel "Bridge Over Troubled Water" and Judy Garland's "Over the Rainbow" each received five. The contributors overwhelmingly favored music from the 1960s and 1970s, with those two decades accounting for nearly 200 of the 250 selected songs.
This is just the latest in a long list of honors Dylan has received. He was part of the 1997 Kennedy Center Honors, was given a special citation Pulitzer Prize in 2008, earned the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2012 and was awarded the 2016 Nobel Prize in Literature for creating "new poetic expressions within the great American song tradition."
More than 60 years after he first asked how many roads a man must walk down, Dylan's music continues to resonate across generations. In a project designed to identify the songs that best define America, no artist was cited more often.
Related: Nobel Prize-Winning Songwriter Behind Some of Rock’s Biggest Classics Turns 85
Funko Announces Pop! 250 Collection, Unveils Iconic First One-Of-One Collectible
America 250 celebrations have been well underway throughout the year, but with the Fourth of July right around the corner (not to mention the U.S. soccer team's chance to win the 2026 FIFA World Cup), collectors and anyone looking to celebrate this massive anniversary of the good old red, white and blue cannot miss Funko's brand-new, freshly announced Pop! 250 collection, featuring some of the country's most iconic, historic figures of all time.
Funko first exclusively revealed to Parade that, beginning today, the company is kicking off its Pop! 250 rollout, which will feature 26 total one-of-one Funko Pops. In fact, these unique, one-of-a-kind Pops will be announced over the next 26 days, with their identities currently kept tightly under wraps. Rest assured, however, that each announcement will feature a figure who helped to shape American culture over the last 250 years.
First on the list is a figure everyone should know due to his major influence on various areas of modern-day American life: Benjamin Franklin. What did Franklin invent? That's a jaw-dropping laundry list. Among the ideas Franklin is credited with are the lightning rod, bifocals and swim fins, and he had a significant influence on modern-day libraries, newspapers and fire departments.
Clearly, Franklin was a busy, versatile and important figure, and now, Funko is offering fans of the brand the opportunity to bring a Pop! version of this founding father home. The 1770 Pop! showcases Franklin's well-known, classic look, including his very own bifocals, and will be a unique, singular collectible for one lucky person.
Pop! 250 Benjamin Franklin (0:21)If you're eager to get your hands on this Benjamin Franklin Funko Pop!, keep an eye on Funko's social media accounts and the POP250 hashtag, and mark your calendar for Aug. 6, when Funko will host a special POP! 250 livestream.
In honor of this first-of-its-kind rollout, Funko has also debuted a new Pop 250 logo, making it easy to identify which figures are part of this exclusive new line.
Pop! 250 logo.Funko
James Van Der Beek 'Appeared Buoyant and Happy' While Battling Cancer on Set of 'Elle'
James Van Der Beek's last role will be one to remember.
Speaking at the premiere of the Prime TV show, Elle, on Tuesday, which will officially be out on July 1, the show's co-runner, Caroline Dries, fondly remembered working with the late actor in footage shared by The Wrap.
"James told me that acting allowed him to be someone and forget the pain he was in, but even off camera, James appeared to be buoyant and happy," she said of the actor who died of cancer in February. "He brought his daughters to set. He sat with us on plastic folding chairs in video village, he made us laugh. He told us stories, and he showed us nothing but kindness and gratitude toward the crew."
The Dawson's Creek icon played mayoral hopeful Dean Wilson in the series, which also stars Lexi Minetree as Elle Woods, and June Diane Raphael and Tom Everett Scott as her parents.
"This would be James' last role," Dries continued. "Our cast gave him the space to feel that joy. Our cast is very special."
Van Der Beek's wife Kimberly, whom he shared six children with, also reposted Dries kind words to her Instagram stories on Thursday and shared that "Emilia and Annabel had the pleasure of separately being on set with him. They treated the kiddos beautifully and he was so proud of this role...especially because his daughters were so looking forward to watching it"
Related: James Van Der Beek's Wife Kimberly Celebrates First Father's Day After His Death
The heartfelt speech from Dries comes days after Kimberly also shared a tribute to him this past Sunday on Father's Day.
“Missing you so much and thinking of how magnificent you were in every single way today,” she wrote. “And somehow, from the other side? You continue to parent. You’re a marvel.”
The show, which is executive produced by Reese Witherspoon, who originated the iconic character of Elle Woods in 2001, was one of the many celebrities to share a heartfelt to tribute to Van Der Beek after his death.
"Devastated to hear about James Van Der Beek," she wrote on social media. "What an extraordinary, talented man who also showed great kindness and grace in every action. Praying all the angels watch over his family during this difficult time."
🎬 SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬
Katie Couric Says She Was Pushed Out of a High-Profile Celeb Interview She Pitched
Katie Couric is looking back at one of the assignments that got away.
During the Wednesday, June 24 episode of Call Her Daddy, Couric told hostAlex Cooperthat she once pitched a 60 Minutes profile on Lady Gagabefore the singer became an even bigger cultural force.
According to a report by People, Couric said she thought Gaga could be "the next Madonna" and believed that CBS should do a profile on her.
Couric said the idea was initially rejected. She recalled a producer telling her the response was, "It's not for us."
Why the Assignment Later Went to Anderson Cooper Lady Gaga at the 28th Screen Actors Guild Awards held at Barker Hangar on February 27th, 2022 in Santa Monica, California. (Photo by Gilbert Flores/Variety/Penske Media via Getty Images)Gilbert Flores/Variety/Penske Media via Getty Images
Couric said the show later became interested in pursuing Gaga after the singer's public profile had grown.
But when Couric checked the CBS assignment board, she said she saw the story listed with Anderson Cooper instead.
"And I see Lady Gaga, Anderson Cooper," Couric recalled on Call Her Daddy.
Couric said the moment frustrated her because she had first brought the idea to the show.
"It made me crazy," she said.
CBS later aired Cooper's 60 Minutes interview with Gaga on Feb. 13, 2011. The profile was taped in London, Milan and New York while Gaga was on tour.
What She Said Happened With Hillary ClintonCouric said on the podcast that the Gaga interview was not the only assignment where she felt pushed aside.
She recalled being told she would do a profile of Hillary Clinton, who was secretary of state at the time, before learning that Scott Pelley's team had contacted the State Department about the same story.
Couric said the part that bothered her most was not just the reassignment, but how she found out.
She described it as happening "behind my back."
Related: Katie Couric Makes Rare Comments About Matt Lauer’s Accuser, Brooke Nevils
How Couric Later Interviewed GagaCouric did eventually interview Gaga. In 2011, she joined the singer for the ABC special A Very Gaga Thanksgiving.
Couric worked at CBS from 2006 to 2011, anchoring CBS Evening News With Katie Couric and contributing to 60 Minutes.
'The Bear' Cast Reveals Their Favorite Scenes — Including One Emmy-Winning Moment That Nearly Ruined the Set (Exclusive)
After five years, 48 episodes, and countless uses of the f-word, The Bear has at last come to a close. Through the five-season series, there's been a lot to, for lack of a better term, chew on. We've seen Carmy (Jeremy Allen White), Sydney (Ayo Edebiri), Richie (Ebon Moss-Bachrach) and so many other people not only reinvent the Beef family restaurant into a fine dining establishment, but reinvent themselves as well.
If you were to ask fans of The Bear about their favorite scene from the series, you would get a veritable buffet of answers. Carmy's seven-minute monologue at Al-Anon in the Season 1 finale, when he finally reveals his complicated relationship with his brother? Marcus (Lionel Boyce) having a heart-to-heart with Luca (Will Poulter) in Copenhagen about sports and the meaning of success? Richie belting out Taylor Swift in the car, having finally discovered his purpose in life? The menu is limitless.
So, when Parade had the chance to talk with some of the cast members of the Emmy-winning series, we had to ask what their favorite scenes were to film. And they provided some five-star options.
Moss-Bachrach has plenty of scenes he could pick from, considering the massive metamorphosis Richie has undergone over the course of the series. But, surprisingly, the 49-year-old says the scene that stands out is one of the first.
"The first thing I can think about is making that first episode and meeting everybody," he says. "Seeing what the culture of the show is going to be like and seeing who my scene partners were going to be. Just feeling that initial alchemy and that initial camaraderie was so seductive and inspiring to me. I just felt like I had been invited to a really special party."
"Shooting that pilot was so much fun, man," agrees Liza Colón-Zayas. But the Emmy winner has some different takes for her own favorite scene.
"I love me and Sydney on the street, when I hoist her up into the air," she answers, referring to a moment from the Season 2 premiere. The two clearly got off on the wrong foot, with Tina even sabotaging the newbie, who she felt was threatening her position. But she grew to respect and eventually learn from her. And so, when Sydney asks her to be her sous chef in the reimagined concept of The Bear, she was flying high.
The friendship and camaraderie between Tina and Sydney have extended off-screen as well as The Bear goes along. Edebiri stepped behind the camera for the first time to direct "Napkins," a Season 3 episode that tells Tina's origin story as to how she got to The Beef. Unsurprisingly, Colón-Zayas shouts it out as a highlight for her as well. Though, always the team player, she quickly remarks how much she likes to watch her fellow actors work.
Related: Does Ayo Edebiri Have a Boyfriend? Inside ‘The Bear’ Star’s Dating History
Boyce also picks out a moment from the show's beginning, albeit from the finale rather than the premiere.
"I remember the family meal," he recalls about the Season 1 ending, when the staff enjoys a Berzatto family spaghetti meal. "It was the first time we had this camaraderie."
Abby Elliott echoes Boyce's answer, bringing up the various family meals throughout the series. And she reveals a key tidbit about how show creator Christopher Storer makes them sound so natural.
"It's not scripted," the woman behind Sugar says. "We're just sitting, eating, looking at each other, and it's simple. And Chris will just say, 'Abby, you're eating Tina's food, and it's delicious. Look at Tina, and let her know that you know. And so it's like all these very small moments, and it comes together just beautifully."
Elliott also, of course, made mention of Sugar's standout episode, "Ice Chips." With her character pregnant since Season 2 (something she says Storer wrote into the show based on her real-life pregnancy), she goes into labor alone, with everyone heads-down at the restaurant and not responding to her calls. And so she resorts to perhaps the worst person she can use as her emergency contact: Her mother, Donna (Jamie Lee Curtis). "Ice Chips" serves to warm their relationship, though, helping build the Berzatto matriarch's season-long path of recovery and redemption.
Related: Jeremy Allen White’s Net Worth in 2026 Is More Bull Than Bear
"I loved the challenge of the birth episode," she says of her performance, which earned her an Emmy nomination. "I will always go back to having that really intense, real moment with Jamie Lee Curtis. I don't think I'll ever get over it."
Matty Matheson, too, has a personal highlight from a family dinner, also involving the Oscar winner. This one, however, is much less pleasant. The man behind Neil Fak was one of the many in attendance for a night to remember in Season 2's "Fishes." The feature-length installment is packed to the nines with star talent, from Bob Odenkirk to Sarah Paulson to John Mulaney. And it all culminates in an incredibly tense scene around the dinner table, as tense words are exchanged, forks start flying, tables are flipped, and cars are driven into houses.
"[I loved] being at the table during 'Fishes,'" Matheson answers. With [Jon] Bernthal, there are all these rumors, either he wasn't supposed to flip the table, or he was supposed to flip the table. But I'm sitting next to him, and he [approaches] Duccio, our first A.D. And he's like, 'Hey, Duccio, I'm gonna flip the table.' And Duccio's just like, 'Please don't do that. This is all real glass. We'll have to reset, and there's wine and everything. Please don't do that. Let's do a couple more takes, and then we'll put like breakables out, and we'll do some stuff.' And Bernthal was like, 'Okay, no problem, man.' Next take was just that take."
A nightmare for production, true. But, to be fair to Bernthal, that episode did win him an Emmy the very next year. With The Bear set to conclude tonight, we shall see if there's anything in Season 5 to turn (or flip) the tables, giving new options to challenge some of those iconic moments.
Related: 'The Bear' Season 4 Recap: What to Remember Before the Final Season
Owala's Ultra-Popular Water Bottle With a Built-In Straw Is Down to a Rare $27 During Amazon Prime Day
Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.
If you’ve scrolled even just one minute on TikTok lately, chances are you’ve heard of Owala. The brand is behind some of the trendiest water bottle and tumbler styles of 2026, winning over consumers for its cute designs and everyday practicality. Kids, tweens, teens, college students, and even adults who are committed to staying hydrated can’t get enough. This Prime Day, which runs through June 26, Amazon has marked down an iconic Owala option: the FreeSip Water Bottle.
Right now, it’s marked down a rare 20% from $35 to just $27 in several colors, making it the perfect time to snag one (or a few) before the deal ends. From the backpack to the desk to the gym, this bottle fits everywhere. And once you try it, you’ll see why it’s on everyone’s list.
Owala FreeSip Water Bottle, From $27 (was $35) at AmazonCourtesy of Amazon
Shop at AmazonDesigned with the kind of practical charm that makes you wonder how you ever went without it, this water bottle turns everyday hydration into an easy habit. Its clever dual-sip lid lets you choose between a quick straw pull or a classic open swig, whether you’re mid-workout or easing through your daily routine.
The smooth, sturdy exterior sits comfortably in your hand, the carry loop keeps it grab-and-go ready, and the leakproof build means it can tumble around in your bag without leaking. Simple, functional, and genuinely satisfying to use, it even goes straight into the dishwasher, making end-of-day cleanup as effortless as the sip itself.
The classic 32-ounce version comes in a lineup of dozens of standout shades, each showing off the signature tri-color style: you can get bright sunset-hued orange and gold versions, pretty pastel options, and retro color combos like pale blue, pale green, and orange. Sale options are listed at a budget-friendly $27 or $28, making it easy to grab a color that feels fun and fresh.
With over 100,000 five-star reviews, this Owala style has earned its top status for being “durable,” featuring a “secure and leakproof” cap, and offering a “collectable” color range. “This bottle really performs when it comes to insulation. It keeps water cold for hours — literally from morning until late afternoon, even on warm days,” one shopper wrote.
Another added that the brand “nailed it” with the color choices, calling them “fun and stylish” to carry around.
Related: Amazon’s 'Lightweight' and 'Breathable' $19 Cotton-Linen Pants Are a Summer Lounging Staple
With performance, style, and a price this low, it’s no wonder everyone’s adding the Owala FreeSip Water Bottle to their Amazon cart this Prime Day. Grab yours before the sale event ends June 26!