Parade
U.S. Pairs Team Delivers the Skate of Their Lives at the Olympics
The U.S. pairs team of Ellie Kam, 21, and Danny O’Shea, 34, delivered the skate of their lives at the Olympics, putting together a career-best performance when the team needed it most.
Skating in the pairs segment of the Olympic team competition, Kam and O’Shea—who have been skating together for four years and train out of Colorado Springs—entered the ice under pressure. As NBC’s Terry Gannon noted before they began, “The U.S. with a five-point lead, but [pairs] is not their strong suit.”
What followed was a near-flawless performance.
They opened by nailing their triple twist. “Beautiful start there with that triple twist,” said commentator and former Olympian Tara Lipinski. They followed it with a clean side-by-side triple salchow-double axel combination, setting the tone early.
Attention then turned to the elements that had troubled them most in practice: the throws. “The most difficult element for this team is the throws,” former Olympian Johnny Weir explained, noting that they had only landed one cleanly during multiple practice attempts.
Under Olympic pressure, Kam and O’Shea delivered.
RELATED: Kelly Stafford Speaks Out on Candid Matthew Stafford Profile: ‘Finally He Lets Someone In’
They nailed the first throw, a triple lutz. “Beautiful!” Weir exclaimed. Moments later, they attacked the second—a throw triple loop—with Weir adding, “This is their chance at an Olympic medal, and they’re skating like they’re hungry for gold.”
Lipinski could barely contain her reaction after the landing. “I haven’t seen them skate this well in a long time,” she said.
Their lifts brought the crowd to its feet. “In pairs, lifts are king. This is one of the most spectacular lifts,” Weir said, with Lipinski responding, “I have chills.” O’Shea, known as one of the strongest lifters in the discipline, earned further praise. “He is one of the best lifters in the world,” Lipinski added.
RELATED: Jason Kelce’s Gift Guide for the Men in Your Life (Exclusive)
As the program ended, the superlatives kept coming. “Forget about meeting expectations, they just exceeded them,” Gannon said. Lipinski went even further: “I haven’t seen them skate like that ever… they were unstoppable.” Weir summed it up bluntly: “That was the most fantastic skate I’ve seen from them, absolutely stunning from start to finish.”
Kam and O’Shea scored 135.36, a personal best.
Their performance was especially meaningful within the Olympic team competition, where each country fields skaters in men’s singles, women’s singles, pairs, and ice dance. After earlier events, the U.S. team was sitting in first place, thanks to strong finishes from Madison Chock and Evan Bates in ice dance, Alysa Liu (short program) and Amber Glenn (free skate) in women’s singles, and Ilia Malinin in men’s singles.
After their skate, Kam said, "We felt like were finally working together again, the nerves were gone…we were able to just lock in and focus on us as a team," and O'Shea added, "It means everything, those moments that you've dreamed of since you were a little kid...we know the team is counting on us to get some points today, so I'm just overhwelmed with emotion. Pure joy today."
Team USA Wins Gold so Kam & O'Shea Are Gold MedalistsAfter a fall during the short program that left them in fifth place, Kam and O’Shea delivered exactly what the U.S. needed. As Gannon put it, “If they’re fourth, not fifth here, that extra point for the U.S., that’s big.”
Kam and O'Shea finished in fourth place, though the margin between them and third place was only 1.3 points, whereas after the short program, they were quite a ways behind 1st, 2nd and 3rd. It was good enough to keep the U.S. in the lead in the team competition. After the pairs, the U.S. led Japan by two points. After the women's singles, they were tied, and it all came down to men's singles.
Malinin beat out Shun Sato from Japan to get the U.S. the gold medal in the team event, which means Kam and O'Shea will leave the 2026 Olympics as gold medalists even if they don't make the podium in their individual event.
The Simple Way To Turn Dr Pepper Into the Perfect Fancy Winter Drink
The rise of mocktails and dirty sodas has changed the way we view and consume soft drinks—long gone are the days of simply pouring a can over ice and calling it a day. These days, a soda can be a canvas for culinary creativity.
The fun NA drinks pop up all over social media, and I’ve tried more than my fair share of them, including a hot chocolate Coke that leaned fully into dessert territory and a Dr Pepper dirty soda that I absolutely loved thanks to its sweet and spicy notes. I even created my own dirty soda, inspired by Paris Hilton's spicy new coffee creamer.
That all brings us to the most recent buzzy beverage, hot chocolate Dr Pepper, a trending concoction that lands somewhere in the middle of those drinks that I've tested in the past (and that's iced, despite the name). It's indulgent but still refreshing and is great for people who don't like hot drinks but still like the flavor of hot cocoa. When paired with a rich cocoa cold foam, Dr Pepper transforms from a sippable summer staple into something that feels better suited for these chillier months.
Following a TikTok recipe originally shared by content creator Tabitha Blue, I decided to put the hot chocolate Dr Pepper to the test. After giving it a go, I do feel that Blue's recipe is pretty much perfect as-is, but I also have some thoughts about how to make this drink fully your own—keep scrolling to learn more.
Related: I Tried 8 Popular Fast-Food Hot Chocolates and the Winner Won by a Landslide
Ingredients Needed for Hot Chocolate Dr PepperCourtesy Angel Albring
To make this drink, you'll need Dr Pepper, ice, heavy whipping cream, hot cocoa mix, mini marshmallows and chocolate syrup. I had all of these ingredients on hand already, so this was a super easy drink to whip up.
Related: How To Make Hot Chocolate 10x Better, According to a Cooking Show Champion
@tabitha.blueOkay but hear me out. If hot chocolate and Dr Pepper had a cozy season baby… this would be it. And that cold foam would be 🤌🏻🤌🏻 on an iced coffee, too! Hot cocoa cold foam: 4 tablespoons heavy whipping cream ½ packet hot cocoa mix Froth until light and fluffy. Fill a glass with ice and Dr Pepper. Top with the hot cocoa foam. Finish with mini marshmallows and a drizzle of chocolate syrup if you’re feeling extra. Save it for later or tell me if you’d try this combo 🤍
♬ original sound - TabithaBlue How To Make Hot Chocolate Dr PepperTo follow Blue's recipe, add 4 tablespoons of heavy whipping cream and half a packet of hot cocoa mix to a small bowl or frothing cup. Using a whisk or frothing wand, mix until you have a light, fluffy cold foam.
Courtesy Angel Albring
I doubled this mixture because I was serving four people. I also made the cold foam in a Magic Bullet because it's faster than using a handheld frother, and I wanted a thicker topping. If you use this method, pause every 10-20 seconds to check the consistency of the cream.
If you make the foam too thick, as I did at first, add more heavy cream, put the lid on, give it a good shake and blend for a few more seconds. That should fix it!
Courtesy Angel Albring
Once the cream is the right consistency, fill a glass with ice and pour in the Dr Pepper, leaving some room at the top. Spoon or pour the hot chocolate cold foam on top of the soda. Garnish with mini marshmallows and a drizzle of chocolate syrup before serving. Use a straw to give the drink a quick stir and encourage the cream to move throughout the soda.
Courtesy Angel Albring
Related: The British Way to Make Hot Chocolate 10x Better
Hot Chocolate Dr Pepper: My Honest ThoughtsCourtesy Angel Albring
This drink was a huge hit in my house! The chocolate didn't overpower the soda, and the Dr Pepper’s vanilla and spice notes actually enhanced the cocoa flavor. As the foam melted, the drink became creamier without losing its fizz. It felt very dessert-like but not heavy, making it perfect for an afternoon treat or a cozy night in. I served the drink in clear cups to show off the layers and wished I had a fancier straw for a little extra flair.
Cold foam is one of my go-to tricks for elevating drinks without making them too complicated, and this cocoa-spiked version is a great one to try. Light, fluffy and just sweet enough, it sits beautifully on top of the soda and slowly melts into the drink, creating a layered effect that feels special with very little effort.
Related: We Tried 12 Popular Hot Chocolate Mixes and the Winner Was a Total Surprise
How To Customize Hot Chocolate Dr PepperCourtesy Angel Albring
There are many ways to mix up this drink so it's exactly what you like. When you're making the cold foam, swap the standard hot cocoa mix for dark chocolate or salted cocoa version. You can also add a splash of vanilla or caramel syrup for extra depth.
If you prefer a softer, float-like texture, use crushed ice instead of ice cubes. For a grown-up vibe, dust the drink with cocoa powder.
And when it's time to garnish, you can use your favorite syrup for drizzling on the top. I used chocolate caramel syrup, but you can also use peppermint or white chocolate syrup.
Up Next:
Related: I Made the Viral French-Style Hot Chocolate—and It Tastes as Good as It Looks
'Young Sheldon’s Mckenna Grace Teams Up With Heavy Metal Band Ice Nine Kills for 'Scream 7' Soundtrack
There's a killer new single coming to town this month, leading into the release of the seventh installment of the beloved Scream franchise.
One of the film's stars, Young Sheldon alum Mckenna Grace, is teaming up with heavy metal band Ice Nine Kills for a soundtrack addition that'll really twist the knife, and fans are "so unbelievably sat" for the moment the new tune hits the airwaves.
It's a Fascinating Collaboration Between 2 Highly Varied ActsAccording to Concord, the band's label group, Ice Nine Kills "summon[s] the most captivating elements of metal, punk and hard rock and combine it with melody, cinematic obsession, and a literary fascination," with music outlet Loudwire calling them “one of the most unique acts in metal right now.”
Meanwhile, the Once Upon a Time alum leans into a pop rock, pop punk crossover sound in most of her music, wowing fans with her powerful vocals ever since she debuted her first single, "Haunted House," at the age of 15—which makes the pairing an incredibly unique team, which fans of both think might just make it "THE BEST SONG EVER."
View this post on Instagram Fans Are Sounding the Alarm Over the Upcoming ReleaseThe now-19-year-old announced the "killer" collaboration on social media over the weekend, sending fans of the budding musician (Grace’s debut album, Bittersweet 16, was released in 2023, followed by the Autumn Leaves EP, along with a selection of singles under her belt) into a tizzy nearly two years after her last music release in 2024.
Her followers could barely hold it together, with one exclaiming, "OMG OMG OMG ALERT NEW MCKENNA MUSIC."
"if this is how i’m getting new mckenna grace music i’ll take it," someone else, who doesn't seem too keen on metal, admitted.
While the actress-slash-musician hasn't formally released anything in some time, she did recently share a "hauntingly beautiful" cover of a Taylor Swift song, tiding them over for a while.
Scream 7 hits theaters on Feb. 27, 2026. "Twisting the Knife" is out on Feb. 19, 2026.
Savannah Guthrie's Mom Nancy: Neighbors Leave Prayer Rock Outside Home as 84-Year-Old Remains Missing
Today co-anchor Savannah Guthrie‘s mom, Nancy Guthrie, 84, is still missing more than a week after the abduction from the Tucson, Ariz., home—and neighbors recently left a prayer rock outside of her residence.
On Saturday, Feb. 7, a sign was photographed near Nancy's home that read, "Dear Guthrie Family, Your neighbors stand with you."
Later, candles were added to the display of support, in addition to a rock that read "Please Pray," CNN reported.
Additionally, John Tittle, the pastor at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, where Nancy attends, asked the congregation to pray for her family on Sunday, Feb, 8, per NBC News.
“We are seeking to just honor the family’s privacy and their desires,” Tittle said. “It was communicated to me, ‘pray.’ We’re going to keep praying through this horrific ordeal.”
A sign of support left by neighbors is posted outside of the home of Nancy Guthrie on Feb. 7, 2026, in Tucson, Ariz. (Rebecca Noble/Getty Images)Nancy was last seen on the evening of Saturday, Jan. 31—and on Feb. 1, the Pima County Sheriff’s Department (PCSD) launched a search for the 84-year-old. Since then, law enforcement declared her Tucson residence a crime scene and determined that she had been “taken” from her residence “against her will.” Investigators also confirmed that the blood discovered at the home belonged to Nancy.
In recent days, law enforcement returned to Savannah’s mom’s home multiple times. On Saturday, an agent was spotted carrying a “silver briefcase” inside. A video of a vehicle of interest was also submitted, in addition to agents finding a camera on the roof of Nancy's home. Additionally, the FBI made a strategic move across several states as the search hit the one-week mark.
Eight days into Nancy's abduction, she has still not been found—despite multiple ransom notes and issuing video messages to the captors through Savannah, and the family promising to pay the staggering ransom amount.
Those with any information about Nancy’s missing case are advised to contact the FBI tip line at 1-800-CALL-FBI.
Next: Savannah Guthrie’s Mom Nancy: "Silver Briefcase" Appears as Police Search Home for Clues
Adam Sandler Reveals Kathy Bates Initially Ditched 'The Waterboy' Script After One Page
Kathy Bates almost turned down the role as Adam Sandler's mom in the 1998 film The Waterboy.
Sandler spoke about the iconic 90s film during the 41st Annual Santa Barbara International Film Festival where he was being honored with the Maltin Modern Master Award. In conversation with Leonard Matlin, Sandler shared that Bates originally wanted to turn down the role.
"I remember we sent Kathy Bates the script for The Waterboy to play my Mama. I don't know if I have the story 100% right, but apparently she kind of read the first page and went [shrugs] threw it in the garbage," he said.
Sandler revealed that Bates decided to give the script a second chance after someone close to her had read it.
"The guy who works with Kathy, picked it up and read it and said, ‘Kathy, I think you should read that script. It's pretty funny,'" Sandler explained.
After giving The Waterboy script another shot, Bates decided to accept the role as Mama Boucher, the fiercely protective mother of Sandler's character, Bobby Boucher.
"We're very close. I love her very much. She's always kind to me," Sandler said of Bates.
Bates had shared a similar story about The Waterboy in an appearance on The Drew Barrymore Show in 2024. However, in Bates' recollection of events, she made it to at least page 12 in her initial read through before tossing the script.
Bates told Barrymore at the time that choosing to accept the role after all was, "one of my favorite all-time experiences."
Savannah Guthrie's Missing Mom Case Takes Another Turn as Investigators Search 'Septic Tank'
Authorities are at Nancy Guthrie's home on Sunday, Feb. 8, continuing to look for clues into her disappearance. The Pima County Sheriff's Department believes that Nancy, 84, was abducted from her home in the overnight hours of Sunday, Feb. 1.
According to News Nation's Brian Entin, the investigation is in full swing today and authorities are "searching a septic tank at Nancy Guthrie‘s house."
There have been some unconfirmed reports that investigators are actually looking at "abandoned mines or utility shafts" rather than septic tanks, this according to journalist and cupcakeMAG founder Casi Densmore, who claims to have been in contact with local residents.
According to Fox True Crime, investigators with the Pima County Sheriff's Office removed what looked like a manhole cover in an area behind Nancy's property.
ON PROPERTY: Officials with the Pima County Sheriff’s Office returned to Nancy Guthrie’s Tucson, Arizona, home on Sunday to search a nearby septic tank.
Footage captured by the Fox Flight Team shows authorities using a pole to probe a manhole located behind Guthrie’s property. pic.twitter.com/xdOZ0jcAEa
This latest search update comes less than 24 hours after Savannah Guthrie and her siblings, Annie Guthrie and Camron Guthrie, spoke directly to would-be abductors in a video posted on Instagram.
"We received your message," Savannah says, periodically looking into the camera. "And we understand. We beg you now, to return our mother to us, so that we can celebrate with her. This is the only way we will have peace. This is very valuable to us and we will pay."
Within hours of the message being posted online, authorities showed up at Annie's home, which she shares with her husband, Tommaso Cioni. Their home is about four miles away from Nancy's home in the Catalina Foothills, north of Tucson, Arizona. Authorities say that Nancy took an uber to her daughter's house on Saturday, Jan. 31, where she had dinner and played Mahjong before Cioni drove her home around 9:30 p.m. local time.
Also on Feb. 8, the Pima County Sheriff's Department sent out another update on X.
"The Nancy Guthrie investigation is ongoing. Follow-up continues at multiple locations. No suspects, persons of interest, or vehicles have been identified. No scheduled press briefings. If any significant developments occur in the case, a press conference will be called," reads the post.
READ NEXT: Annie Guthrie and Tommaso Cioni Hire Security Amid Nancy Guthrie’s Disappearance (Report)
Ilona Maher Looks ‘Red Hot’ in Leather Minidress and Heels
Rugby player Ilona Maher, who won a bronze medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics, donned a sultry new ensemble for a special night out, sharing photos of the look with fans on social media.
The 29-year-old shared some snaps on Instagram on Feb. 8, writing in the caption, "RED HOT," while also crediting her stylist, hairstylist, and makeup artist. In the photos, Maher posted with one foot in front of the other while wearing a red leather off-the-shoulder minidress that showcased her long legs, with black peep-toe heels on her feet.
She had on gorgeous glam makeup, with her hair in an elegant updo with one long piece twirling down in front of her face. Maher wore the stunning outfit to attend Sports Illustrated The Party presented by DraftKings at Cow Palace Arena & Event Center in California on Feb. 7.
View this post on InstagramThere were plenty of fans of the party look in the comments, with one fan joking, "Calling IT support, the internet has been broken ❤️."
"Spice level off the scale," said someone else, while similarly excited replies included, "Good heavens," "UN-FREAKING-REAL," "Okay MOTHERRR," and "Red hot is an understatement."
Another person proudly declared, "I’m too early to these and I regret none of it 🔥."
More fans shared appreciation for the Dancing with the Stars alum's dress, writing, "Dress was made for youuu," and "Need this dress 🥵."
Other familiar faces attended the party with Maher, including Ariana Madix, Tara and Hunter Fieri, Tiffany Haddish, and more.
Related: Ilona Maher Has Savage Response to Hater Who Said She "Looks Pregnant" in Red Carpet Mini Dress Look
View this post on InstagramBefore attending the party, Maher also shared a video of herself feeling the vibe as she wore the red dress, modeling the look in her hotel room.
Friends and fans cheered her on, writing, "You go girlie I’m so proud of you and happy for you you are awesome and you inspire me," and "Careful you don't set off the fire alarms in the hotel."
Related: Ilona Maher Stuns Fans With Fringed Corset Cowgirl Look in New Video
The Whitney Houston Homage in Super Bowl LX Pregame You Missed
In 1991, Whitney Houston performed the "Star Spangled Banner" for Super Bowl XXV. The vocalist wore a Le Coq Sportif tracksuit, and her voice boosted Americans' spirits at the start of the Gulf War. The sales of the iconic performance were donated to charity. Houston's influence continues with Super Bowl LX, which is 35 years later.
Coco Jones Wears a Track Suit in Homage to Whitney Houston View this post on InstagramCoco Jones will perform "Lift Every Voice and Sing" at the pregame for the big day. Hip-hop stylist Sankara Xasha Turé revealed to The New York Times what he chose for the Grammy winner, 28. Jones and her orchestra will wear Japanese nylon track suits that he designed and is inspired by Houston's iconic outfit. "I’ve designed for a lot of brands, but I knew that for the Black national anthem, you go to the first streetwear Black designer," Turé said.
The Black anthem also has strong ties to Florida, which is the setting for Houston and Jones' performances. "Today my boo boo @cocojones will sing 'Lift Every Voice and Sing' at the Pregame !!!" wrote Loni Love on Instagram with a picture of the singer. "'Lift Every Voice and Sing,' often called the Black National Anthem, was written as a poem by NAACP leader James Weldon Johnson in 1900 and set to music by his brother, John Rosamond Johnson. Originally performed by 500 school children in Jacksonville, Florida, for Abraham Lincoln’sbirthday, it became a powerful anthem of resilience, faith, and hope for African Americans during the Civil Rights Movement. Sing Coco!!!"
Jones shared a video of Houston and Bobby Brown talking about Black History Month in her Instagram Story on Sunday. "We need a longer month," Houston said. "Black History Month, we need the whole year," Brown said. Jones's suit is all white with her name and "Super Bowl 2026" on the back of her cropped jacket.
Marisa Tomei, 61, Goes From Hot Pants on the Red Carpet to Ice Dancing Super Fan at the Winter Olympics
Acclaimed actress Marisa Tomei is absolutely ageless on the red carpet during an event at the 2026 Winter Olympics.
The Oscar-winning actress, 61, who earned praise for diverse roles ranging from My Cousin Vinny and In the Bedroom to Slums of Beverly Hills and The Wrestler, hit the red carpet at the Omega House opening night during the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics. Sporting a strapless top and black hotpants, the brunette beauty looked better than ever for the big event. But like everyone else in Italy for the Olympics, Tomei was really there to cheer on the athletes!
Photo by Jacopo Raule on Getty Images
On the same day, Tomei was spotted in the crowds watching the ice dance free dancing team event on day one of the Olympic Games at the Milano Ice Skating Arena. Frequently snapping photos with her cell phone camera and reacting dramatically, the actress was just as relatable as every fan rooting for the athletes as they performed tremendous feats.
Photo by Jared C. Tilton on Getty Images
Tomei is Playing Rachel Zegler's MomWhile one look at Tomei makes it hard to believe she'd be old enough to have an adult daughter, the actress is hard at work on a new project in which she plays the mother of actress Rachel Zegler. Last year, Variety announced that Tomei was set to star as Zegler's mom in She Gets It From Me as the "pill-popping, ex-punk rocker birth mother" who turns her daughter's engagement celebration upside down while attempting to reconnect.
What's Next for Marisa Tomei?While Tomei has a laundry list of tremendous films on her resume, Deadline announced last month that she would join Casey Affleck, Sam Rockwell, and Kathy Bates in The Smack, a project based on the 2017 novel by Richard Lange. According to the piece, the film follows a down-on-his-luck conman, played by Affleck, who teams up with a casino waitress to execute a high-stakes con targeting a hidden cache of stolen U.S. military cash.
“What starts off as an easy plan spirals into a deadly game of as they collide with dangerous criminals chasing the same score,” the synopsis reads.
Related: Marisa Tomei Turns 61 — And She's Still Gorgeous as Ever
Walmart's Durable $60 6-Tier Bookshelf Set Is a Stylish Storage Upgrade
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 easy to lose track of books. Some sit stacked on your nightstand, while others live anywhere from your desk to your coffee table. Whether you've simply run out of room or you don't yet have a dedicated spot for your reads, a set of two Casacomoda six-tier bookshelves can instantly help you organize your library and declutter your space.
Right now, the duo is reduced from its usual $125 to just $65 at Walmart. For two durable pieces of furniture with ample space to hold your books and more, it's an easy win for your home that won't burn your budget. If you were to purchase just one at regular price from the retailer you'd pay $90, making this flash deal even more impressive.
Casacomoda Six-Tier Bookshelf Set, $65 (was $125) at WalmartEach bookshelf has six spacious tiers, giving you plenty of room to line your books or put treasured photos and accents on display. They're designed to withstand up to 33 pounds each, with a robust metal frame providing substantial support and smooth particleboard shelves offering sleek space for your belongings.
They're as good looking as they are functional, measuring 19.7 inches wide by 7.8 inches deep by 69.7 inches tall. The compact size allows you to make the most of your vertical space without cluttering the rest of the room. With its lean, striking silhouette, the shelf blends nicely into the room while adding a touch of transitional charm that falls somewhere between traditional and contemporary.
Because the set includes two units, you can really take control of your organizational needs and fill gaps where your home may need a little extra attention. The two slide seamlessly next to each other to create a large, cohesive unit, which can be especially useful if you have a large space and a sizable book collection.
You can easily tailor them to your needs, though, by placing them in separate rooms. These sturdy bookshelves are ideal for home offices, bedrooms, living areas, and even empty hallways that could use a bit of sprucing up. The neutral color scheme combines black with earthy brown, making it an easy fit for a variety of interior schemes.
Shop More Deals- Vunate Abstract Area Rug, $40 (was $70) at Walmart
- Gunaito Lift-Top Coffee Table, $93 (was $150) at Walmart
- Sunmory Modern Gold and Marble Table Lamp, $46 (was $80) at Walmart
Adding the Casacomoda Six-Tier Bookshelf Set to your home is an easy way to get a head start on some spring cleaning, too. Even if your space is already organized, using the shelves to line your books makes it so much easier to categorize them and find exactly what you want. It's a great opportunity to save big on two impeccably made units built to stand the test of time.
Don’t miss future deals! Sign up for Parade Picks to receive our commerce team’s curated selection of discounts and sales, twice a week.
Aldi's Chic Cordless Lamp Will Lighten the Mood During Cozy Season
Mushroom lamps are very much in style at the moment. Beloved for their soft lighting and mushroom-shaped silhouette, these retro-style table lamps are a versatile, functional and stylish option for any home. From your desk to your nightstand, mushroom lamps will help set the mood and make any space feel so cozy.
There are countless mushroom lamps available on the market, with varying styles and price points. If you want an affordable but still super-chic option, Aldi has you covered with its Casalux Rechargeable Mushroom Table Lamp. It retails for just $12.99.
Casalux Rechargeable Mushroom Table Lamp, Beige, $12.99 at AldiAldi
Casalux's Rechargeable Mushroom Table Lamp comes in three neutral colors—beige, white and black—giving you various choices to pick from. Each lamp is cordless, adding to its aesthetic charm. All you need to do is charge it prior to use, and you are good to go. A USB-C cord is included for convenient charging. The mushroom lamp's cordless design also makes it portable and easy to move around.
Related: Aldi's 12-Drawer Rolling Cart Is Perfect for DIY Lovers
To turn the mushroom lamp on, all you need to do is make a short touch. To turn the lamp off, do a long touch. These mushroom table lamps also have a dimming function, giving you complete control over the mood of a room. The lamps also feature a warm-white light at 200 lumens.
Aldi's Casalux Rechargeable Mushroom Table Lamp is available now at participating Aldi stores as part of the grocery store chain's current selection of Aldi Finds, limited-edition product specials that rotate in and out each week.
If you are interested in more practical, budget-friendly and stylish Aldi Finds, be sure to check out this colorful $5 kitchen upgrade, this vibrant mini cookware staple perfect for making solo meals or these sleek drawer organizers that will level up your home's storage situation.
Aldi Finds are located in the center aisles of Aldi stores. Keep in mind that product availability changes weekly, so speed is of the essence when it comes to snagging your fave Aldi Finds. If you see an Aldi Find you want, it is always in your best interest to grab it while you can!
Related: Aldi's Chic $30 Bamboo Organizer Is a Genius Game Night Upgrade
The Monkees Producer Admitted One Thing He Would Have Changed About Their 'Best Song of All Time’
In 1967, The Monkees had a massive hit with their song “Daydream Believer.”
The song, written by the Kingston Trio’s John Stewart and performed by Monkees bandmates Davy Jones, Micky Dolenz, Michael Nesmith, and Peter Tork, hit No 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in December 1967 and stayed there for four weeks.
A reader’s poll conducted by Rolling Stone ranked “Daydream Believer” as the Best Monkees song of all time, and the esteemed music mag called it “the finest performance” of lead vocalist Jones’ career.
But there was an unusual moment at the beginning of the song that the band’s music producer later questioned.
At the very beginning of the album version of “Daydream Believer,” producer Chip Douglas is heard saying, “7A,” referring to the studio take number for the song.
Jones, who sings lead vocals on the song, asks, "What number is this, Chip?", and the other Monkees respond, "7A!"
“Okay… don’t get excited, man… it’s because I’m short, I know,” Jones then says, before the song’s signature piano intro begins.
'Probably shouldn't have left it on'In a 1968 interview with Tiger’s Beat’s Monkees Spectacular fan magazine, Douglas admitted he didn’t give much thought to leaving the studio dialogue in the finished track because he didn’t think of "Daydream Believer" as a single at the time.
“We probably shouldn’t have left it on,” Douglas admitted. “’Daydream Believer,’ the disc jockeys don’t like the talking at the beginning, because it’s hard to queue up. I just mixed everything down for an album. I wasn’t thinking about singles. Then, they decided to put ‘Daydream Believer’ out as a single. I completely forgot about the talking intro on that, but it’s just as well anyway.”
Douglas also spoke about the decision to release "Daydream Believer" as a single. The song was recorded during the sessions for the band’s fourth album, Pisces, Aquarius, Capricorn & Jones Ltd., but didn’t appear on that album.
“They would frequently release a single, and then they would put it in the following album,” he told Monkees Live Almanac in an interview. "We did that 'Daydream Believer,' and it wasn't even in Pisces, Aquarius, Capricorn and Jones, it was in the album after that [1968 ’s The Birds, the Bees, and the Monkees]. So they had a kind of a strange philosophy of marketing going at that time, which I didn't quite understand. Just one of the things they did, I guess.”
How Much Does a Super Bowl Ad Cost in 2026?
The Super Bowl is finally here! And that means those iconic, beloved Super Bowl advertisements will also be airing. In fact, for some, the ads may be more fun to watch than the game itself!
It's always entertaining to see all of the creativity that goes into producing an ad that airs during the Super Bowl prime time. Advertisers will pay big bucks for a coveted time slot and they want to make it count. After all, when you're paying millions of dollars for just a 30-second time slot, you want to do everything possible to make it stand out.
Since the Super Bowl is one of the most-watched events on TV, businesses are willing to shell out plenty of cash to get their ad aired during the game. It makes sense that companies want to put their best representation forward when tens of millions of people are watching. To make ads memorable, it usually means we can count on plenty of humor. However, it's no joking matter when it comes to the cost of a Super Bowl ad. Even though the price seems unreal, it's simply a fact and companies are willing to pay the cost.
So you may be wondering, how much does a Super Bowl ad cost in 2026?
Related: Nickel and Dime Defense? Here's How Much Super Bowl Tickets Cost in 2026
How Much Does a Super Bowl Ad Cost in 2026?According to CBS News, a 30-second commercial during Super Bowl LVIII cost close to $8 million. This year, the number is again between $7 and $8 million, with Varietyreporting on NBC's announcement that all ads for 2026 were sold out by September 2025.
That figure is worlds away from the very first Super Bowl in 1967, when ads cost $37,500 for a 30-second time slot. For comparison, ads that run during the NFL season can exceed $1.1 million, according to Sportico.
The first time the cost was over a million dollars was in 1995 when it cost $1.15 million for the 30-second time slot. Each year, the cost continues to grow and the biggest jump was between 2021 and 2022, when the cost went from $5.5 million to $6.5 million.
The University of Minnesota Carlson School of Management published a study in 2022 on the effect Super Bowl ads have on business sales and growth. It was determined that Super Bowl advertisers may not see a huge boost in sales right away. However, there are immediate increases in online searches that help to spread brand recognition, which could bring in later sales.
Who Is Advertising in the 2026 Super Bowl?It's always fun to see which new companies will be placing ads. Typically, we see ads for beer and snack brands for sure, along with vehicle ads and tax services. And you can bet on getting some new movie trailers too. Some specific advertisers that we expect to see this year, according to Brand Innovators, are the following:
- Uber Eats: their sixth consecutive year
- Instacart: their second year
- eos: a skincare brand
- Come Near: The "He Gets Us" campaign is back for the fourth time.
- PepsiCo: Their brands Lay's, Poppi and Pepsi Zero Sugar will make an appearance this year.
- TurboTax: 13th appearance on Super Bowl Sunday
- Pringles: their ninth appearance
- Bosch: 2nd year in a row
- Dove: The Unilever brand is returning with a message to empower girls in sports.
- Svedka Vodka: the first vodka Super Bowl ad in 30 years
- Cadillac: unveiling the new livery of their Formula 1 car
- Liquid I.V.: their first appearance
- Hellman's: the sixth appearance for the mayonnaise brand
- Ritz: third consecutive year for the snack cracker
- Nerds: also the third year for the candy from the Ferrara company
- Novartis: a pharmaceutical company
- Ferrero Foods: The company behind the Nutella, Keebler and Butterfinger brands will be participating in this year's Super Bowl.
- Grubhub: their first Super Bowl appearance
- Liquid Death: The water brand is back.
Whether you are a diehard football fan or just enjoy the halftime show and the funny commercials, the Super Bowl game is the most-watched show on television. As the NFL reported, Super Bowl LIX averaged 127.7 million viewers across broadcast and streaming platforms, an increase of 3% over the previous year. That's the second year in a row the Super Bowl set viewing records, even though the blowout game saw the Kansas City Chiefs get trounced by the Philadelphia Eagles 40-22. Will the Big Game set another record in 2026? Time will tell!
A Beloved ’80s Sitcom Photo — and the Friend They Lost
A single throwback photo from the early 1980s is stirring deep emotions for fans of classic television—not because of what it shows, but because of what time has changed.
Glenn Scarpelli, who starred as Alex Handris on One Day at a Time, recently shared a rare snapshot from his childhood acting years, featuring a group of fellow young stars who helped define an era of TV.
View this post on InstagramAlongside Scarpelli in the photo are Kim Fields, Danielle Brisebois, Ricky Schroder and Adam Rich—a collection of faces instantly recognizable to anyone who grew up watching network television in the late ’70s and early ’80s.
In his caption, Scarpelli reflected on the closeness that formed among the group, writing, “Incredible memories with @kimfieldsofficial and @daniellebrisebois, who to this day I consider family in my heart.” He added, “And there’s Adam, who I spoke to just a few weeks before he passed away. We were buddies and stayed in touch always. I miss him very much. I still can’t believe he crossed over. ❤️. And I have wonderful memories with Rick, but haven’t seen him in over 15 years."
Rich, best known as Nicholas Bradford on Eight Is Enough, died from an accidental fentanyl overdose in January 2023 at age 54. Scarpelli’s words reframed the photo not as a piece of nostalgia, but as a reminder of real friendships formed during childhood.
RELATED: The Only Time the Entire ‘Brady Bunch’ Reunited After the Series
The image also sparked conversation in the comments, where fans shared how much the photo resonated. One wrote, “If this doesn’t look like a Gen X childhood, I don’t know what does,” while others called the group “adorable” and described the picture as a “blast from the past.”
Brisebois, who later transitioned from acting into a successful music career, responded directly to fans who asked what became of her, explaining that she is now a songwriter and producer and expressing gratitude for the life she has built.
RELATED: ’50s TV Darling’s Signature Song Gets a Modern Country Update
A fan wrote, "Does anybody know what happened to Danielle Brisbois? She was so cute on All in the Family," to which Brisebois wrote, "Hi. It’s me. I am a happy mama and a successful songwriter and music producer. I co-wrote and produced 'Unwritten' and 'Pocketful of Sunshine' by Natasha Bedingfield, and was nominated for an Oscar for my song 'Lost Stars' sung by Adam Levine from the movie Begin Again. 🌻But most importantly, grateful and happy for all I have in my life. Even the struggles."
The fan replied to that with, "So nice to hear. You look great. So many are lost and far gone in Hollywood. Glad you are not one of them."
The image has taken on new meaning over time, especially for those who grew up watching these shows and remember the people in them as part of their own childhoods.
Was Super Bowl QB Sam Darnold's Grandfather Really the Marlboro Man?
Sam Darnold'sgrandfather passed away in 1999, but you've probably caught a glimpse of him before you ever even heard of the Seattle Seahawksquarterback.
"He's such a legend in our family, he's becoming a legend, even outside of our family now," Darnold told Sunday Night Football in February 2026, just days before his own first trip to the Super Bowl. "I've heard the stories that have gone around our family for years, you know? He's just an all-time person. He had a ton of accolades."
In another interview with KING 5 Seattle, Darnold said of his grandpa, “He passed away when I was two years old, so I didn’t really get to know him, but from what my mom tells me, we have very similar personalities. We attack everything that we do in a similar way.”
🤩📺SIGN UP for Parade‘s Daily newsletter & get the scoop on the latest TV news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox🤩🎥
He added, “I feel like my family and her side of the family compares me to him a lot.”
It seems pretty insane to imagine that there's someone cooler or more accomplished than Darnold in his own bloodline, but he faces some seriously steep competition. Who is Sam Darnold's grandfather? Find out his identity, what he and Darnold have in common, what makes him a real-life hero and why he's even more iconic than even those who recognize him may realize.
Related: Everything You Need to Know About the Super Bowl Gatorade Shower and How It Started
Is Sam Darnold the grandson of the Marlboro Man?Yes! Sam Darnold's grandfather, Richard Bernard "Dick" Hammer, was the Marlboro Man in the cigarette brand's ads in the 1970s, but his accomplishments go far beyond lassos and long inhales.
Born in Long Beach, Calif., on July 17, 1930, Hammer was an athlete who shared an alma mater in the University of South California (USC) with his famous grandson. Hammer played basketball at USC, making it to the NCAA Final Four in 1954. As of Feb. 2026, the USC men's basketball team has not made a Final Four appearance since.
And that wasn't Hammer's only historical athletic feat. He competed in the 1964 SummerOlympics for Team USA in men's volleyball—reportedly beating the Netherlands and ultimately finishing ninth in the global games. In fact, the first Team USA victory over the Netherlands was the first volleyball game ever played at the Olympics, according to SF Gate.
Hammer later worked in the parks and recreation department in Long Beach, California.
Related: We’re in It for the Ads! These Are the 56 Best Super Bowl Commercials of All Time
Darnold celebrates with the George Halas Trophy after winning the NFC Championship in 2026.Photo by Jane Gershovich on Getty Images
What does Sam Darnold say about his grandfather being the Marlboro Man?While the smoking cowboy may be the most recognizable depiction of Hammer to the average person, he was a whole lot more than that—especially to Darnold and his family.
"He was the Marlboro Man, he was the captain of the firefighting squad in L.A., you know? He was an Olympian, played volleyball in the '64 Olympics in Tokyo and he even played basketball as well at USC," Darnold told Sunday Night Football. "But I think more than all that, he was just a great person, you know? A great father, a great grandfather to me and all my cousins. And so I think that's why he was a legend in my family."
View this post on InstagramHis legacy didn't end with his athleticism. Hammer was also a Los Angeles fire captain, a model and a prolific actor.
Hammer appeared in more than 100 commercials throughout his career, the first being for Aunt Jemima (now Pearl Milling Company). The ad was set in a firehouse, which combined two of his passions.
Then, in 1970, Hammer was cast as the fourth Marlboro Man in Philip Morris & Co. (now Altria)'s tobacco ads.
His best known acting role was as firefighting Captain Hammer (playing himself, essentially!) on Emergency in 1972. It was convenient, too: At the time, Hammer was the fire captain of Universal Studios' entire lot.
Chris Darnold, Sam's mother and Hammer's daughter, told the Los Angeles Times that Hammer's real calling was fighting fires and that he wasn't necessarily thrilled to be a Marlboro Man. In fact, she said he only became a model and an actor to supplement his income as a firefighter.
“It wasn’t something that he was really proud of, in the end,” Chris said. “It’s funny, because we don’t talk about it that much. All of a sudden, we’re talking about the Marlboro Man again. And there was so much more to my dad than just that.”
Related: Our 10 Best Super Bowl Recipes Made by Legendary NFL Football Players (Plus Mama Kelce)
Why did Captain Hammer leave Emergency?Hammer left Emergency during Season 1 in 1972—after just 10 episodes—because he wanted to devote more of his time to fighting fires in real life and only wanted to moonlight as an actor, not do it full time.
He continued working as a firefighter until he retired in 1983.
Related: Modern Family Star Once Revealed NFL Setback That Nearly Ended His Career: “I’m Done”
What did the Marlboro Man die of?Sadly, while legends never die, humans do. Hammer died from lung cancer on Oct. 18, 1999, at age 69. His now-famous grandson was just two years old when he passed.
Related: It's Marvel Star Kathryn Hahn's 'Year of Football' — See Her New Super Bowl Ad (Exclusive)
Charlie Puth Speaks Out Ahead of Super Bowl National Anthem Performance
Charlie Puth is gearing up for his National Anthem performance by remembering one of the most iconic performance moments in Super Bowl history.
Before performing on the field at Levi's Stadium for the big game on Sunday, Feb. 8, Puth spoke out on social media to address that he is "fully" aware of another version of "The Star Spangled Banner" that came before him.
He was, of course, referring to Whitney Houston's performance at Super Bowl XXV in 1991, where she delivered a performance that would go down in history.
"I am singing the national anthem on Sunday, fully knowing that this version exists..." Puth, 34, wrote across his Instagram video on Saturday, Feb. 7, which showed him walking around the stadium while looking visibly overwhelmed as he listened to Houston's powerhouse performance.
View this post on InstagramFortunately, Puth was flooded with supportive comments from fans and fellow musicians, many of whom encouraged the "Attention" singer not to compare himself to anyone else.
"Yeah, but you’re gonna do Charlie’s version. And that’s what the world wants to hear this year! 👏👏" one user wrote, while another told him, "Whitney, Unbeatable.. but you’re also gonna be incredible!"
Another supportive comment read, "Yea but you’re Charlie Puth and your sound is unmatched. You got this bro 💪"
Kenny Ortega commented on the post, "It’s not a competition Charlie. Just make the words ring out. '. . . the land of the free and the home of the brave' We need to be reminded how fragile and our freedom is and how brave we must all be in our willing to fight to hold on to it! . 🇺🇸"
Meanwhile, David Foster chimed in to tell Puth "ur gonna kill it," while reminding him that Houston's version "wasn't live."
Related: Did Whitney Houston Really Not Sing the Super Bowl National Anthem Live?
Super Bowl LX will kick off from Santa Clara, Calif., with Puth's performance “The Star Spangled Banner,” while Brandi Carlilewill perform “America the Beautiful” and Coco Jones will takes on “Lift Every Voice and Sing.” The halftime show will be headlined by music superstar Bad Bunny.
Related: Country Star's Super Bowl Anthem Performance Resurfaces as 'One of the Best' of All Time
Romance and Reckonings Ahead on 'Days of Our Lives'
An exciting week on Days of Our Lives is set to unfold on Days of Our Lives, as spoiler preview what’s ahead for the Peacock soap during the week of February 9 through 13.
Monday, February 9Gabi Hernandez (Cherie Jimenez) asks Gwen Rizcheck (Emily O’Brien) for a favor.
Leo Stark (Greg Rikaart) and Dimitri von Leuschner (Peter Porte) discuss the true nature of their relationship.
Jada Hunter (Ela Cantu) agrees to help Stephanie Johnson (Abigail Klien)
Alex Kiriakis (Robert Scott Wilson) and Jeremy Horton (Michael Roark) clash in a heated confrontation.
Eli Grant (Lamon Archey) surprises his grandmother Julie Williams (Susan Seaforth Hayes) and lets her know that he is moving back to Salem.
Tuesday, February 10
E.J. DiMera (Dan Feuerriegel), Kristen Blake (Stacy Haiduk), Theo Carver (Tyler Joseph Andrews), Tony DiMera (Thaao Penghlis) and Chad DiMera (Billy Flynn) say goodbye to Stefano DiMera (Joseph Moscolo).
Dr. Rolf presents E.J. with Stefano’s final gift, his ring.
Tony offers Chad a surprising suggestion.
Meanwhile, Marlena Black (Diedre Hall), Belle Black (Martha Madison) and Brady Black (Eric Martsolf) clash with Kristen.
Wednesday, February 11
Leo opens up to Marlena.
Gwen (Emily O’Brien) notices a change in E.J.
Dimitri fights for his freedom after he is arrested by Rafe.
Brady is offered joint custody of Rachel by Kristen.
Thursday, February 12
Chad plans to leave Salem and go to Arizona.
Cat Greene (Annalynne McCord) is invited to dinner with EJ.
Jada and Stephanie surprise Alex.
Johnny DiMera (Carson Boatman) and his wife Chanel DiMera (Raven Bowens) enjoy a romantic afternoon together
Friday, February 13
Sarah (Lindsey Godfrey) and Xander (Paul Telfer) share a bittersweet moment.
Julie, Maggie (Suzzane Rogers), and Marlena reflect on Valentine’s days past.
Brady opens up to his son Tate (Leo Howard)
Days of Our Lives released a promo for the week of February 9, 2026, teasing the hellos and goodbyes that reshape Salem as danger moves in closer.
Days of our Lives streams weekdays on Peacock.
How to Attract Abundance & Money, According to Birth Date
In a world driven by money, it's only natural to desire more of it. While many often view money and spirituality as opposing forces, they can actually work together to help us overcome emotional blocks that prevent us from feeling worthy, capable, or ready to pursue our true professional inclinations. Although some aspects of money may lie beyond our free will or manifestations, it is worthwhile to focus on what we can control in order to attract the abundance and wealth we deserve and desire. According to expert numerologists, each birth date can be linked to our natural personality and gifts, which can help us attract money, wealth, and abundance. Read on to discover how every date of birth can bring in more material success.
How Every Birth Date Best Attracts Money, AbundanceCheck for your birth date. Disregard birth months.
MORE: The Best Career for You, Based on Birth Date
Born on the 1st, 10th, 19th, or 28th — The Leader's WealthIndividuals born on these dates are natural leaders who find their greatest financial success through positions of authority, innovation, and bold action. It’s essential for them to trust their own vision. Ruled by the Sun, the symbol of willpower, they are destined to lead and create new paths. Taking a backseat only dims their light. Their true potential lies in honoring their instincts—it's time to stop seeking advice and start making decisions.
NEXT: Your Chinese Zodiac Sign's Final Task Before the Year of the Snake Ends
Born on the 2nd, 11th, 20th, or 29th — The Collaborator's WealthThese birthdates are influenced by the Moon, our cosmic source of intuitive light. Their greatest assets in attracting wealth are partnership, collaboration, and emotional intelligence. When they connect with the right professional relationships and maintain strong personal connections, money tends to flow more easily. Embrace teamwork; striving for complete independence and working solo goes against your strengths.
Born on the 3rd, 12th, 21st, or 30th — The Creator's WealthYou will find great material success by embracing your natural talents. Those born on these dates are ruled by Jupiter, the planet of expansion. Therefore, they are meant to share ideas, get creative, and express themselves. Spreading their light through communication, writing, and creativity can lead to increases in wealth. Engaging in speaking, writing, content creation, and building a brand around your gifts helps you be seen and heard and grow in visibility. You can monetize your hobbies and skills, earning a living from what you enjoy most. Your joy is your greatest money magnet. Embrace it!
RELATED: Which Angel Brings You Abundance and Wealth, Based on Birth Date
Born on the 4th, 13th, 22nd, or 31st — The Builder's WealthGuided by structure, self-discipline, and consistency, individuals born on these dates are hard workers. They believe in creating lasting foundations. Fleeting distractions and empty productivity drain their energy. Instead, their greatest strength lies in taking their time, being patient, and developing expertise. Quick, superficial schemes do not resonate with them. Guided by Uranus, the planet of rebellion, they question the status quo and build investments, businesses, and commitments step by step, challenging norms and honoring individuality.
Born on the 5th, 14th, or 23rd — The Adventurer's WealthYou are destined to remain adaptable. Embracing adaptability, open-mindedness, and taking calculated risks will serve you well. Those born on these dates are influenced by Mercury, the swift planet of expression and communication. Your mind is agile, open to variety, and constantly expanding. Therefore, you find success when you explore uncharted territory, pivot, and seek new experiences in your everyday professional life. Traveling, networking, and addressing topics that others fear to confront empower you. You are meant to trust your ability to land on your feet and innovate rather than follow the traditional, predictable path.
Born on the 6th, 15th, or 24th — The Nurturer's WealthEmbrace your ability to bring people together. Your "social glue" personality enables you to attract abundance by fostering community and serving others. You naturally create safe spaces and beauty wherever you go. Your relationship-oriented approach and genuine care should align with your work life. Fields such as healing, the arts, design, and improving lives suit you well. To amplify your magnetism, it’s important to honor your talent for creating emotional value. However, be mindful that you can hinder your abundance if you undercharge, overgive, or confuse martyrdom with generosity.
TRENDING: The Painting That Reflects Your Soul, Based on Birth Month
Born on the 7th, 16th, or 25th — The Seeker's WealthYour analytical mind and profound depth are among your greatest assets. Wealth comes to you through self-mastery, introspection, and knowledge, ruled by Neptune, the spiritual planet of higher perspective. Your strategic thinking grants you the wisdom of an old soul, even at a young age. You are destined to investigate, dive deep, and become an expert through specialized insights. Valuing your intellect and problem-solving skills will lead to greater financial success. Engaging in research, consulting, analysis, and teaching will enhance your financial prospects as you embrace this educational role and continue to nurture your thirst for lifelong learning in your most passionate subjects.
Born on the 8th, 17th, or 26th — The Powerhouse's WealthThese birth dates are influenced by Saturn, the ambitious planet linked to long-term strategy. You possess the ability to attract abundance through your decisive actions. Settling for less is not in your nature. Your strength lies in building empires, creating meaningful legacies, and setting high goals. You have no interest in side hustles or playing the wallflower. You identify financial opportunities through decisiveness and your ability to step into authority, even if you have to "fake it until you make it" while learning the ropes. You are meant to embrace your desire for wealth, influence, and meaningful work, rather than engaging in half-hearted efforts or roles.
RELATE?: Which Stevie Nicks Quote Matches You, According to Birth Month
Born on the 9th, 18th, or 27th — The Humanitarian's WealthYou can discover your greatest wealth by embracing your natural inclination to lead with compassion. Giving back, thinking collectively, and learning from a global perspective can yield significant rewards. Your true abundance lies in your ability to consider the greater purpose and impact of your actions, beyond just monetary gain. You are destined to make a difference, uplift others, and give a voice to those who are silenced. Whether through social enterprises, philanthropy, or activism, your work serves a greater good. You can attract greater financial success by following your instincts to uplift others, trusting that doing good and achieving material success for yourself can coexist. Ruled by Mars, the planet of warrior preservation, you fight for justice and respect for yourself and all involved, embodying the qualities of a true leader.
UP NEXT:
Belinda Carlisle, 67, Reveals Aging Was the Ultimate Glow-up With an Old Photo of Herself in a Garbage Bag
The Go-Go's lead singer, Belinda Carlisle, knows what it's like to have the ultimate glow-up as she gets older.
The '80s pop rock queen, 67, who smashed onto the scene with hits like “We Got the Beat” and “Vacation,” also had a successful solo career with hits like “Heaven Is a Place on Earth” and “Mad About You.” Still going strong as a soloist with the recent release of her new album, “Once Upon a Time in California,” back in August, Carlisle keeps up with her followers on her Instagram account and often shares photos from back in the day. But a recent post, which showed her from the late '70s, caught our eye like never before.
"Never underestimate a girl or her bag. #BelindaCarlisle Now and Then ➡️," the photographer captioned the photo, which showed the stunning singer, looking more gorgeous than ever in the present day, in a chic black outfit toting a Christian Dior bag. Swipe over to the second slide, and you can see a much younger Carlisle wearing an all-black outfit constructed out of a garbage bag. Sporting short, curly hair and a black hat, it's almost hard to recognize the future music star.
"I ate oatmeal for a month to buy that bag in the late 70s❤️," Carlisle noted.
View this post on Instagram Struggling With AddictionWhile Carlisle is doing great these days, it wasn’t always the case. In addition to struggling with imposter syndrome as a young singer, Carlisle struggled with drug and alcohol addiction. Looking back, the singer told Rolling Stone Australia this fall that she’s grateful there was no social media during the time she was struggling so prominently.
“I would’ve been the Lindsay Lohan of my time!” she said. “Oh my God, yeah. And even when everybody had a cell phone, they didn’t have a camera [inbuilt] yet. So that would’ve been the end of me, that’s for sure. Jesus! We were really lucky. None of that was around, so you could behave badly and chances were that no one ever heard about it.”
Finding Peace in SobrietyAfter years of relapse, Carlisle ultimately found sobriety. She opened up in an interview with The Sunday Times about her lengthy journey.
“I thought, I’ll just drink wine, and I won’t do coke. I realized that in order to continue with my career — which was in the toilet — the most important thing was to get sober. I remember playing this little club in Northampton at the end of my drinking and using. There were 12 people in the audience, and my dressing room was a closet for cleaning materials, mops, and brooms. I thought, Wow. I was able to turn things around, but I wouldn’t have been able to if I had been behaving in the way I was before I got sober,” she recalled.
These days, things look a lot different for Carlisle.
“I get up at 3:30 am. Then I chant for 40 minutes. I love chanting. It’s not airy-fairy; it’s scientific,” she explained.
No matter whether she’s chanting or singing, Carlisle still knows how to rock. Here’s a throwback from one of her most legendary tunes:
Traveler-Loved Cruise Line Shuts Down for Good, Canceling All Sailings
Travelers dreaming of an intimate cruise through Alaska’s glaciers and quiet coastal towns were met with unexpected news this week: Alaskan Dream Cruiseshas officially shut down and canceled all future sailings.
The small-ship cruise line, which had been operating since 2011, was known for offering close-up access to Alaska’s Inside Passage—reaching narrow fjords, remote fishing villages and wildlife-rich waterways that larger cruise ships simply can’t navigate. Its abrupt closure has left many travelers scrambling to adjust plans for the upcoming Alaska cruise season.
According to a farewell message posted on the company’s website and reported by TheStreet, Alaskan Dream Cruises confirmed it has “ceased business operations” and will no longer operate any future sailings. Because the line runs seasonally and Alaska’s cruise season typically begins in May, no passengers were onboard at the time of the shutdown.
Related: This New Alaska Cruise Excursion Lets You Get Surprisingly Up Close to Moose
View this post on InstagramWhile experiences varied, many past guests spoke warmly about the small-ship experience. One traveler called the cruise an “outstanding introduction to Alaska and to cruising,” writing that the trip “exceeded my expectations” in a review shared on Cruise Critic.
Another reviewer praised the intimacy of the itineraries, saying the line delivered “amazing memories” and offered access to “small places for culture” along the Inside Passage. Even more mixed reviews often highlighted the setting itself, with one traveler noting “great wildlife through the Inside Passage,” underscoring why the line earned loyalty despite its quirks.
For guests with existing reservations, the company said it has contacted travelers and travel agents directly with information about next steps. Refunds were mentioned in the notice, though specifics may vary depending on how bookings were made. Impacted travelers were encouraged to check their email communications carefully or contact the company directly for clarification.
The closure highlights a growing challenge in the cruise industry, particularly for smaller operators. While large ships dominate many popular itineraries, Travel Tour and World reports that small-ship lines like Alaskan Dream carved out a loyal following by offering a more personal, expedition-style experience. These voyages often focused on local culture, Alaska Native heritage and natural exploration rather than crowded ports and onboard attractions.
Related: 8 Best Wave Season Cruise Deals for 'Get Me Out of Here' Weather
For travelers still hoping to visit Alaska in 2026, the shutdown doesn’t mean plans have to be abandoned. Other small-ship expedition cruises continue to operate in the region, and larger cruise lines still offer Inside Passage routes—though the experience can feel very different. Travel experts recommend acting quickly, as Alaska’s cruise season is short and alternative sailings can fill up fast.
Related: These Are the 10 New Cruise Ships Everyone Will Be Talking About in 2026