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Clarks’ ‘Super Comfortable’ Kitten-Heel Booties Are So Chic for Fall and Now 40% Off

Thu, 10/15/2026 - 5:30pm

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A good pair of black boots can go a long way in your fall and winter wardrobe, especially when they’re comfy enough to wear all day. And if you love the look of heels but aren’t crazy about wearing them for hours, Clarks has a gorgeous pair on sale that might change your mind. The Kepley Erin Booties are currently 40% off at Macy’s, bringing the price down to just $84 from $140. They’re available in sizes 5 through 12, including select wide-width options.

These adorable booties have a pointed toe and a slim 2-inch kitten heel that adds a little height, plus a smooth black upper, a stretchy side panel, and a zipper to easy take them on and off. They also feature cushioned insoles for extra padding, flexible outsoles, a 4.8-inch shaft, and an 8.6-inch circumference.

Clarks Kepley Erin Booties, $84 (were $140) at Macy’s

Courtesy of Macy's

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These would look so cute with bootcut jeans, a sweater, and a wool coat for a weekend in the city. You could also wear them with a mini skirt, sheer black tights, and an oversized cardigan for a fun night-out look. Or for something a little more festive, try pairing them with a burgundy sweater dress and gold jewelry for Thanksgiving dinner. The black color makes it super easy to mix and match with different outfits, whether you love neutrals or prefer a pop of color.

One reviewer wrote, “These boots with the kitten heel are the perfect height to give a stylish vibe with pants or skirts,” while another called them “the most comfortable boots I own,” adding, “I wear them almost every day for work.” A third shopper described them as “perfect for all-day wear without sacrificing elegance.”

Related: Clarks’ $40 New Faux Fur-Lined Suede Sneakers Are an Ultra-Cozy Twist on a Classic Fall Shoe

One of the best things about ankle booties is that you don’t have to worry about finding a tall shaft that fits comfortably around your calves. And unlike suede boots that can be tricky to maintain, these smooth uppers can be spot-cleaned when needed. Just keep in mind that some reviewers found the pointed toe to be a little narrow, so it’s worth checking the wide-width options if you prefer some extra room.

Shop More Clarks Boots Deals

If your fall shoe collection could use a little refresh, this is a great excuse to treat yourself. Between workdays, weekend plans, and all those holiday gatherings coming up, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to wear them. Grab the Clarks Kepley Erin Booties for just $84 at Macy’s while they’re 40% off, and give your favorite fall outfits a little lift.

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'Pillsbury Bake-Off Classic' Returns to Primetime With Drew Barrymore as Host—Nearly 50 Years After She Starred in a Pillsbury Ad at Age 4

Thu, 10/15/2026 - 5:21pm

Drew Barrymore, known for her Drew Barrymore Show and her starring role in the 1999 film Never Been Kissed, is going full circle with Pillsbury.

Barrymore landed her first acting role in 1979 in a Pillsbury ad at age 4 (her first-ever role was in a dog food commercial when she was 11 months old), and now the actress is returning for another project with them. CBS is bringing the Pillsbury Bake-Off Classic back to its network, and Barrymore will host.

The show first aired in 1949 under its former title, the Grand National Recipe and Baking Contest. According to Deadline, the show brings together contestants from across the country for five rounds of baking challenges. From cookies to Thanksgiving pies, the show puts their “technical skills and imagination to the test,” Deadline wrote.

Per the logline, “Beyond the competition, the special will showcase the personal stories, traditions and inspiration behind the home bakers and the recipes they bring to the table, celebrating the creativity that has made the Pillsbury Bake-Off Classic a beloved American baking tradition.”

Barrymore follows a long line of celebrity hosts, from Alex Trebek to Oprah Winfrey. With Barrymore hosting, Christina Tosi and Dook Chase will join her as celebrity chef judges. The top baker in each round will be placed in the “Best in Bake” finale, where the winner will earn a $25,000 cash prize and a KitchenAid equipment package.

“Bringing the Pillsbury Bake-Off back to primetime television after more than 20 years is an exciting way to celebrate the creativity and joy home bakers have shared with us for generations,” Maria Carolina Comings, vice president and business unit director for Pillsbury at General Mills, said in a statement to Deadline. “We’re thrilled to kick off the holiday baking season on such a large stage and inspire both longtime fans and a new generation of viewers.”

The two-hour competition will air live on CBS and Paramount+ on November 23 at 8 p.m. ET/PT. Check out Barrymore’s acting role with Pillsbury here:

Harry Shum Jr., 44, Is on the 'Grey's Anatomy' Set at 6:15 a.m. the Morning After 'DWTS'

Thu, 10/15/2026 - 5:15pm

Harry Shum Jr. has two shows on ABC right now.

You’d figure one of them had to give. Neither did.

The actor, 44, is competing on Dancing With the Stars with pro Jenna Johnson and still playing Dr. Benson “Blue” Kwan on Grey’s Anatomy, which kicks off Season 23 tonight at 10 p.m. ET. Grey’s showrunner Meg Marinis said the show didn’t cut his screen time.

“No, we didn’t have to reduce his presence at all,” she said. “We know which day and a half that they always need him, and we’ve been able to make it work.”

Here’s what that looks like. “He’s practicing here, he’s rehearsing outside the stages with his partner,” Marinis said. “He will tape [Dancing] on Tuesday night and be here at 6:15 the next morning.”

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His Castmates Watch Every Tuesday

Both shows film in Los Angeles, which is what makes the double duty possible. The Grey’s cast has turned it into a weekly event.

“We put up a screen and we watch it on Tuesdays on the East Coast feed, and we all vote,” Marinis said. “Some of us have been to see the live tapings.”

Chandra Wilson, an original cast member who plays Dr. Miranda Bailey, backed that up Thursday morning on The View. “Have we been following along?!” she said. “We have a big screen up on set on Tuesdays so we can get ready to cheer him on and lead the text drive!”

“We are so proud of him. I am so proud of him,” she added. “But collectively, we’re like, ‘Harry, do it, do it! Represent!'”

The Lift That Got Called Out

This week’s episode got tense. On Oct. 13, Shum Jr. and Johnson danced a samba to Usher’s “Yeah!” for Super Bowl Night, and judge Carrie Ann Inaba flagged a lift, which isn’t allowed in the samba. She read the rule’s definition off a piece of paper.

And Johnson wasn’t the one in the air. Two troupe dancers hoisted Shum Jr.

They scored 33 out of 40, advancing through the night. He took it in stride. “Everyone take a deep breath! It’s all going to be OK!” he wrote the next day, in the comments of the show’s Instagram post about the dance. “I got to dance on national television again and people felt many things! I love it all.”

Related: Jenna Johnson & Harry Shum Jr. Suffer Brutal Head Butt During ‘DWTS’ Rehearsal

Next Tuesday, Oct. 20, is Dedication Night. The pair will dance a foxtrot to John Mayer’s “Stop This Train,” and he’s dedicating it to his wife, Shelby Rabara. The two have been married since 2015.

Blue Is Back at Grey Sloan

Season 22 ended with Blue getting fired. His return hasn’t exactly been a secret, since the DWTS videos show him back at Grey Sloan Memorial in his blue scrubs.

Marinis isn’t worried about it. “It’s the how is what we’ll discover,” she said.

Shum Jr. has leaned into the double life, too. On Oct. 1, he and the show’s official account posted a joint Instagram reel set to Empire of the Sun’s “Walking on a Dream,” captioned “Who put that portal there?” It has more than 41,000 likes.

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So will Johnson turn up at Grey Sloan? “No, right now she is strictly Harry’s partner, but never say never,” Marinis said.

What about Blue busting a move on the show? “Well, now you know I’m gonna want it,” she said. “He’s so talented.”

Next: James Pickens Jr., 71, Says His Wife Got Him Through Cancer as ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ Returns

Martha Stewart's ‘Pretty’ $40 12-Piece Floral Dinnerware Set Adds an Elegant Touch to Any Table

Thu, 10/15/2026 - 4:45pm

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A pretty dinnerware set can make any meal feel a little more special, whether you’re hosting a formal dinner party or simply enjoying a casual lunch at home. Walmart’s top-rated Martha Stewart 12-Piece Peony Ceramic Dinnerware Set is a charming yet affordable find to refresh your table, featuring a beautiful floral design that complements a wide range of decor. 

Right now, the stunning dishware set is on sale for just $40, down from $50. The 12-piece set comes with everything you need to serve four people, including four dinner plates, four salad plates, and four bowls. That makes it just the right size for individuals, small families, or intimate gatherings. 

Martha Stewart 12-Piece Peony Ceramic Dinnerware Set, $40 (was $50) at Walmart 

Courtesy of Walmart

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This dishware is an excellent choice for both everyday meals and special gatherings. The lovely peony floral design adds an elegant touch to any tablescape, no matter what the occasion is. Made from fine ceramic, they have a substantial feel without being overly heavy for everyday use. 

The set is designed to be lightweight yet durable enough to stand up to daily wear-and-tear. Plus, they’re just as functional as they are stylish. All 12 pieces are microwave-safe, so reheating leftovers is simple and hassle-free, and they’re also dishwasher-safe, which allows for easy cleanup after meals. 

Related: Walmart’s 4-Door Pantry Storage Cabinet Can Fit All Your Dishware, Linens, and Snacks

The Martha Stewart peony dinnerware set has earned high praise from Walmart reviewers. “So happy with these dishes,” one shopper wrote, adding that “they’re very pretty.” Another buyer noted that they’re “great quality” and an “overall nice” addition to their kitchen. 

Shop More Dinnerware Deals

If you’ve been wanting to update your dinnerware without breaking the bank, this 12-piece floral set ticks all the right boxes. It has an elegant design that will elevate any home while still remaining practical and sturdy enough for day-to-day use. Pick up a set for just $40 before this deal ends at Walmart. 

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Quentin Tarantino Loves This 1977 Thriller About a Clairvoyant Housewife Who Finds a Skeleton in Her Husband’s Basement and Now It’s Streaming Free

Thu, 10/15/2026 - 4:36pm

Quentin Tarantino is known for his love of spaghetti Westerns, classic thrillers and movies that deserve a second look. The famed director has a particular soft spot for a 1977 Italian thriller that many viewers may have missed. Now, The Psychic, one of Tarantino’s favorite thrillers from cult filmmaker Lucio Fulci, is streaming for free, giving movie fans the perfect opportunity to discover a suspenseful mystery just in time for Halloween.

What Is The Psychic About?

If you’re looking for a Halloween movie that delivers an eerie atmosphere and a mystery to unravel, The Psychic might be worth adding to your watchlist. Originally released in Italy as Sette note in nero, the 1977 film stars Jennifer O’Neill as Virginia Ducci, a wealthy housewife who has experienced psychic visions since childhood.

When one of Virginia’s disturbing visions leads her to a skeleton hidden inside a wall at a property belonging to her husband, she becomes determined to uncover the truth behind the mysterious death. But as she follows the clues, it becomes increasingly difficult to separate what she sees in her visions from what she can prove in real life.

The result is a blend of psychological horror, supernatural suspense and murder mystery. Rather than relying entirely on graphic imagery, Fulci builds tension through unsettling visions, shadowy settings and the growing suspicion that Virginia has stumbled onto something far more sinister than she realizes.

That makes The Psychic an appealing option for viewers who prefer their Halloween movies with a puzzle to solve. There’s a supernatural element, a suspicious death and a woman trying to piece together a mystery before it’s too late.

Quentin Tarantino Calls The Psychic One of His Favorite Thrillers

When Quentin Tarantino recommends an older movie, it can introduce audiences to films they might otherwise overlook. The director behind Pulp Fiction, Kill Bill and Once Upon a Time in Hollywood has long drawn inspiration from international cinema and under-the-radar genre films, bringing his own appreciation for them into his work.

His admiration for The Psychic fits with his broader appreciation for Fulci, whose films have developed a devoted following among horror fans. Fulci is particularly associated with Italian horror, but The Psychic showcases a more mystery-driven side of his filmmaking, making it an interesting discovery for viewers who may not be familiar with his work.

There’s also a connection to Tarantino’s own films through composer Fabio Frizzi, a frequent Fulci collaborator. Frizzi’s music for Fulci’s Seven Notes in Black, the original Italian title of The Psychic, has a connection to Tarantino’s Kill Bill: Vol. 1, which helped bring the older film’s music to a new audience.

Tarantino’s appreciation is a compelling reason to give the movie a chance, but you don’t need to be a film historian to enjoy it. If you like suspenseful stories, supernatural mysteries and movies that keep you guessing, The Psychic offers plenty to explore.

How to Watch The Psychic for Free

Viewers in the United States can stream The Psychic for free with ads on Tubi. Streaming availability can change, so check the service’s current listing before settling in for movie night.

Why The Psychic Is Worth Watching This Halloween @nightflightofficial

NOW STREAMING on Night Flight Plus: The Psychic (1979)! Jennifer O’Neill of SCANNERS stars as a clairvoyant tormented by visions of a violent crime. But will her own investigation into the crime lead to the most shocking discovery of all? Marc Porel and Evelyn Stewart co-star this chilling giallo that critics and fans – including avowed devotee Quentin Tarantino – consider the most stunning film of the Lucio Fulci’s entire career. WATCH: www.nightflightplus.com/signup #luciofulci #70saesthetic #giallo #horrormovie

♬ original sound – Night Flight – Night Flight

Not every Halloween movie needs a masked killer or a parade of jump scares. Sometimes, a creepy setting, an unexplained vision and the feeling that something is not quite right are enough to keep you hooked.

That’s where The Psychic finds its appeal. Virginia’s visions give the story an unsettling supernatural edge, while the skeleton hidden in the wall sets up a mystery that invites viewers to connect the clues alongside her. The film gradually builds a sense of unease as Virginia tries to determine whether her visions are revealing the truth or leading her into greater danger.

For longtime horror fans, it’s an opportunity to revisit a lesser-known film from a director with a lasting cult following. For everyone else, it’s a chance to discover a vintage thriller with a compelling premise—and an endorsement from one of Hollywood’s most recognizable filmmakers.

Nearly 50 years after its release, The Psychic offers a different kind of Halloween viewing experience: more eerie mystery than nonstop terror. And with the film available to stream for free, it’s an easy pick for anyone looking for something a little different this spooky season.

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55-Year-Old Martin Freeman Marries in Secret Ceremony

Thu, 10/15/2026 - 4:35pm

Martin Freeman is the latest celebrity to tie the knot in secret. The 55-year-old Sherlock star married his partner, Rachel Benaissa, after six years of dating.

The news comes as a shock, with the two debuting their rings while on the red carpet for the UK premiere and gala screening of his upcoming movie, A Long Winter. Shortly after, a rep for Freeman confirmed to The Sun that the nuptials happened earlier this year.

There are no details on the wedding ceremony, only that it happened earlier in 2026. The two have been dating since 2020, and Benaissa formed a close bond with Freeman’s children from his previous relationship. He was with fellow Sherlock star Amanda Abbington for 16 years between 2000 and 2016, and they share two children, Joe and Grace.

The Responder star has been rather secretive about his recent relationship, preferring to keep his private life to himself. He did appear on the podcast “Table Manners,” hosted by Jessie and Lennie Ware, where he revealed that she is French and that she loves cheese and wine, as well as cooking.

Dave Benett / Getty Images

Another recent insight into his personal life was when he appeared on The Jonathan Ross Show, where he talked about going to a Sherlock-themed escape room. This was based on the BBC series, and he went with Benaissa and his children, and they struggled a little with it.

The red carpet appearance was the first insight that the 55-year-old had married. They showed off their rings while on the red carpet to promote A Long Winter, which was filmed in Alberta, Canada. Freeman spoke to CTV News about the filming experience, sharing that he was “concentrating on not dying.”

The movie is an adaptation of the 2006 short story of the same name by Colm Tóibín, set in the 1950s. Fred Hechinger stars as Mike, who returns to his Rocky Mountains, Colorado home when his mother suddenly goes missing. His mother is played by Outlander’s Caitriona Balfe, and she goes missing in the middle of a snowstorm, and it’s up to Mike and his father to get to the bottom of the situation.

The gala screening was part of the 70th BFI London Film Festival on Wednesday, Oct. 14, and it had its Canadian premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival. The movie will be released in UK theaters on Jan. 15.

Who Won 'Jeopardy' Today? (October 15, 2026) Plus, the Final Jeopardy Answer

Thu, 10/15/2026 - 4:29pm

There are three things guaranteed in the world today: Death, taxes, and Jeopardy! being on. Believe it or not, the iconic game show has been on the air for over 60 years (though the modern incarnation we know and love technically debuted in 1984). Under the watchful eye of Ken Jennings (who himself was a record-breaking champion), Jeopardy! puts three people’s trivia skills and reflexes to the ultimate test. And so many of the greats to grace those podiums started by simply watching the show as it aired on weekdays, as millions have done for over half a century.

Here’s a spoiler-filled recap of who won Jeopardy! today, plus the answer to Final Jeopardy.

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Who won Jeopardy today? Eileen Goodwin

Eileen Goodwin took the title of Jeopardy champion with a daily win of $8,401.

Who are the Jeopardy contestants today? Richard Koo

Richard Koo is a middle school math teacher from Forest Hills, New York.

Eileen Goodwin

Eileen Goodwin is a research scientist from Boston, Massachusetts.

Kim Kalnoki

Kim Kalnoki is a pattern designer from Sacramento, California.

Related: Sam Heughan Surprises ‘Jeopardy!’ Fans With an ‘Outlander’ Category – Can You Answer the Clues?

What was Final Jeopardy today?

Final Jeopardy today was in the category “WELCOME TO PHILADELPHIA“

The clue: “Eager to get started, he was the first non-Pennsylvanian to arrive at the Constitutional Convention.”

The answer: “Who was James Madison?”

Goodwin was in the lead at the end of the final DJ round with $11,600, next to returning champ Kalnoki’s $3,200 and Koo’s $4,200. 

No one answered Final Jeopardy correctly; however, no one was able to catch up to Goodwin either, as she lost her wager of $3,199 for a daily total of $8,401, taking the title of the Jeopardy champion. Kalnoki wagered 1001, dropping down to a second-place spot with $2,199, while Koo lost $2,300, with a third-place total of $1,900.

Eileen Goodwin will be back on Friday for attempt number 2.

Did you get the answer? Sound off in the comments!

When is Jeopardy on next?

Jeopardy! will come back on Friday, October 16, 2026, with a new episode. Check your local listings to find out when to watch.

Where is Jeopardy streaming?

Jeopardy! is available on both Hulu and Peacock. Subscribers can enjoy watching new episodes the next day, as well as access a vault of many classic episodes to enjoy at a moment’s notice.

Related: Ken Jennings Reveals If ‘Celebrity Jeopardy!’ Questions Are Easier

KFC's Next Big Move Is a Major Drink Menu Overhaul

Thu, 10/15/2026 - 4:25pm

KFC is serving up another major menu change, and it’s one fans probably never saw coming—although maybe they should have.

Back in June, the international fried chicken chain announced that it was “going in a new direction” and rolling out a global rebrand that would refresh its menu, its look and its branding. Then, three months later, it unveiled an all-new “next generation” restaurant concept serving its first-ever breakfast menu. Now, weeks after opening its inaugural (and only) Open House, KFC has another major update and it’s got to do with what’s in your cup.

Earlier this afternoon, the fast-food giant announced a new partnership with The Coca-Cola Company, calling it the “next step” in KFC’s overall rebrand.

“I’m incredibly excited to bring KFC and Coca-Cola together,” Catherine Tan-Gillespie, president of KFC U.S., said in a press release shared on Thursday, Oct. 15, suggesting that the partnership is about “more than what’s in the cup.”

“It is another step in our work to evolve KFC, strengthen our restaurants, menu offerings and create a more relevant experience for today’s customers,” Tan-Gillespie added. “Coca-Cola shares our ambition for the future of this brand, and I’m excited about what we can create together.”

KFC Is Switching to Coca-Cola Products—Here’s What Fans Can Expect

Currently, KFC serves fan-favorite Pepsi products, including the namesake original Pepsi and its Zero Sugar counterpart, the lemon-lime-flavored soda Starry, Mountain Dew (including its exclusive Sweet Lightning), Aquafina, in addition to KFC’s own lemonade and iced tea recipes. But that only appears to be lasting for the next few weeks, as once Coca-Cola options hit the dispensers, all the Pepsi options will be out.

Related: KFC Answers Fans’ Prayers, Brings Back Beloved Menu Item After Three Years: ‘Crying Real Tears’

So, if you’ve never tried Mountain Dew Sweet Lightning, run, don’t walk to KFC, as its days are numbered.

That said, it looks like KFC is working to score some exclusive Coke products of its own, suggesting the new partnership creates “new opportunities for beverage innovation and food-and-drink pairings as KFC works to strengthen its customer experience.” In fact, it also sounds like KFC may even be upgrading its dispensers to Freestyle machines, as the company notes in the release, “Coca-Cola’s extensive system capabilities will also support KFC restaurants across the U.S.,” though the chain wasn’t quite ready to comment on that front yet. However, should it happen, it would mean customers could create their own Coca-Cola concoctions and ultimately enjoy more expansive options that they can’t find anywhere else.

“This exciting new partnership brings Coca-Cola and KFC together across the U.S. for the first time,” Dagmar Boggs, president of foodservice & on-premise, North America at The Coca-Cola Company, added. “By pairing KFC’s iconic food and flavors with the breadth of Coca-Cola’s beverage portfolio and innovation capabilities, we have an incredible opportunity to make every visit more refreshing, create memorable consumer experiences and unlock new growth possibilities together.”

KFC said it will begin transitioning over to Coca-Cola products beginning in January 2027, with the full rollout expected to be completed at all U.S. restaurants by spring 2027. It’s unclear if KFC will eventually extend the partnership to its international markets as well.

Next: Coca-Cola’s Fan-Favorite Holiday Flavor Is Officially Coming Back for the 2026 Season

Michael Che Addresses Shane Gillis ‘SNL’ Controversy During Tense Interview

Thu, 10/15/2026 - 4:16pm

After a recent episode of Saturday Night Live, Shane Gillis faced criticism for his remarks about women’s gym attire. During his seven-minute opening monologue, Gillis said, “I haven’t been to the gym in so long I didn’t know women just dress like whores now.”

The comment was met with both laughter and groans, prompting Gillis to continue.

“I’m sorry, there’s no other way to describe it,” he said. “Have you seen it? I’ve seen it. The shorts. Have you seen the shorts?”

After the controversial episode, Michael Che appeared on the Today show on Oct. 15 for what became a tense conversation.

Che, known for his role on SNL’s Weekend Update, spoke with Laura Jarrett to discuss his new stand-up special, Michael Che: Shot in Minnesota. Jarrett brought up an Instagram post from Che, where the comedian said, “Gotta do more press this week to promote the special. Wonder what every f-king questions gonna be about. Thanks a lot Shane.”

“That’s comedy, you think it’s funny and then some people don’t,” Che said of Gillis’ opening monologue.

Jarrett asked if Che laughed at what Gillis said, and Che replied, “I was at cue cards, actually, thinking about what I was gonna say that was gonna make people upset. So I wasn’t really — I didn’t even see it ‘til the next day.”

Jarrett continued to press Che about the controversy.

“I didn’t think about it honestly,” he said.

Jarrett asked if Che had seen the monologue with the distasteful remarks before it aired.

“There’s so much going on. It’s really hard to see what everyone’s doing, you know?” he said.

Che clapped back with a joke, saying he’s not “what they call ‘good at [his] job.’”

“So I don’t pay attention to all that,” Che said.

The interview concluded with a brief discussion of Che’s “joke swaps” with Colin Jost on Weekend Update. But Gillis’ controversy was brought up once more, with Che saying, “That’s why I can’t criticize anybody for swinging and missing, ‘cause I’ve definitely swung and missed too. I try to keep that heat off of me.”

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Sam's Club's Biggest Thanksgiving Feast Yet Comes With a Surprisingly Small Price Tag

Thu, 10/15/2026 - 4:05pm

If every year during the week of Thanksgiving you find yourself staring at a cartful of groceries and questioning your life choices—you aren’t alone. The Thanksgiving meal can overwhelm even the most skilled of home cooks. Then you factor in all the time it takes to ready your home for guests on top of meal prep, and you start wondering if you’ll ever get to watch more than five minutes of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade again. It’s a lot, but it doesn’t have to be.

Sam’s Club’s 2026 Thanksgiving Meal serves 16, and this year it’s more comprehensive than ever. As someone who recently had the opportunity to enjoy this meal at the retailer’s headquarters, I can tell you it’s never been easier to fool your family into thinking you made it all from scratch.

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So here’s the deal: This year, Sam’s Club’s Member’s Mark Thanksgiving Meal includes a whopping 11 items, each enough to serve up to 16 guests. Even better, you can serve the whole thing on the table in about two hours.

Kelly Bryant

Here’s what you’ll get:

  • Boneless carver ham
  • Hickory smoked turkey
  • Yukon Gold mashed potatoes
  • Turkey gravy
  • Green beans with dried cranberries and almonds (x2)
  • Macaroni and cheese (x2)
  • Sweet corn with garlic butter
  • Cranberry crunch salad
  • Yeast dinner rolls
  • Charcuterie entertainment tray
  • 12” pumpkin pies (x2)

You can order the meal as early as Oct. 28, adding the entire thing to your cart with one click on the Sam’s Club website instead of having to add items individually. It retails for $160, which breaks down to just $10 per person for a group of 16.

Related: This Apple-Themed Covered Stoneware Pie Plate Is the Cutesy Kitchen Piece You Didn’t Know You Needed

What’s New This Year?

For the first time, Sam’s Club is including a charcuterie platter with its Thanksgiving Meal, which is beautifully arranged with cheeses, meats, crackers and spreads. The addition came after a survey of warehouse club members showed they wanted a little something to snack on before the main event.

Then, for its inaugural debut, there’s a boneless carver ham which adds an extra protein option to the table. Because, after all, not everyone is a fan of turkey.

And finally, brace yourselves for the new turkey gravy. When I tell you this stuff tastes homemade and so, so good—believe me. Even if you use this gravy as a vehicle for every other meal component, it’s worth it.

What to Look Forward To

After tasting each dish, I have to say that aside from the turkey gravy, the turkey and ham were my next two favorite components. The turkey has a mouth-watering smoked flavor that’s just right, and the ham has that salty-sweet balance that works so well for Thanksgiving. Pro tip: Put a few slices of ham between two yeast dinner rolls, smeared with a bit of mustard from the charcuterie tray—heavenly.

Hands-down my favorite side is the mashed potatoes, which taste homemade and have no lumps (an important characteristic in my house).

Order the Member’s Mark Thanksgiving Meal online or in-store at your nearest Sam’s Club warehouse starting Oct. 28. You’ll thank yourself for the time saved later.

Related: These Wines Crack Down on Sugar, and You Can Taste the Difference

James Pickens Jr., 71, Says His Wife Got Him Through Cancer as 'Grey's Anatomy' Returns

Thu, 10/15/2026 - 4:00pm

James Pickens Jr. has played a surgeon on Grey’s Anatomy for 21 years.

When he got prostate cancer, his wife was the one who got him through it.

The actor, 71, opened up about his diagnosis and recovery in an interview published Thursday, Oct. 15, hours before the show’s Season 23 premiere. He gave the credit to his wife of 42 years, singer Gina Taylor, and he calls her “my ride or die.”

“She’s amazing,” he said. “I wouldn’t have been able to take this journey without her.”

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What She Told Him After Surgery

Pickens chose a radical prostatectomy over radiation, and he worried about what it would mean for intimacy. Taylor put that to rest.

“She’d say, ‘Honey, at the end of the day, that’s a lot of fun, but we’re in it for the long haul,'” he said. “It’s not what makes our relationship work as long as it has.”

His urologist helped, too. “He said, ‘That piece will come back, and there’s stuff you can take to help facilitate that,'” Pickens said. “And I was like, ‘There is a God!'”

On the days he felt “a little funky” about it, she could tell. “She’d say, ‘Let’s go to a movie or somewhere. Let’s do something to get your mind off this,'” he said. “It’s hard to measure how important that is.”

Cancer Runs in His Family

He first went public with his diagnosis in November 2025. His father had prostate cancer, and so did several of his uncles and a cousin. He’d been getting PSA tests every year since he was 41.

“I would have been surprised if I hadn’t gotten it,” he said at the time.

He’s far from alone. About 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer, according to the American Cancer Society. It expects about 333,830 new cases in the U.S. this year. The risk is higher for Black men, and it climbs with age. The average man is about 68 when he’s diagnosed.

“Prostate cancer is one of the most treatable cancers if it’s detected early,” Pickens said.

Related: ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ New Star Got His Start in a 2008 Hallmark Movie That He Says Changed His Life

Dr. Webber Went Through It Too

Pickens has played chief of surgery Dr. Richard Webber since the show premiered in 2005. After his own diagnosis, he asked the show’s executive producer to give Webber the same storyline. “I wanted his journey to reflect mine,” he said. “They nailed it.”

On the show last season, Webber had his prostate removed, too. He’ll be cancer-free when Grey’s Anatomy returns tonight at 10 p.m. ET on ABC.

As for the man who plays him? “We’ll keep an eye on it moving forward,” Pickens said, “but I’m feeling fine.”

Next: How Is Bruce Willis Doing Today? His Wife Shares Emotional Update on His Health

Coach Shoppers Call This Roomy Tote a 'Girl's Best Friend,' and It's Nearly $100 Off Ahead of the Holidays

Thu, 10/15/2026 - 4:00pm

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The “go-tos” of the fashion world don’t receive nearly as much credit as they deserve. The most tried-and-true, ever-dependable pieces in your closet are well worth all the love and recognition, though. For proof, just check with the thousands of shoppers who consider the Coach City Tote Bag an everyday essential.

With its clean silhouette and timeless design, this is basically the little black dress of the bag world — and right now it’s an awesome deal, reduced from its usual $295 to $189 at Coach Outlet. It comes in nine classic colors, including black, brown, red, and several versions of the brand’s signature jacquard canvas in cream, navy, and more.

City Tote Bag, $189 (was $295) at Coach Outlet

Courtesy of Coach Outlet

Shop at Coach Outlet

Every single detail puts this bag in a class above its counterparts. It’s sized just right, measuring 13 inches tall by 11.5 inches wide with a depth of 6.25 inches. That gives you ample space to stash the necessities that’ll get you through the day, including laptops up to 13 inches, a makeup bag, water bottle, wallet, and so much more.

The snap closure ensures that you’ll always have easy access to whatever you need, while a convenient interior pocket has a zip closure to keep smaller items secure. The handles have a 10-inch drop, with plenty of clearance space to slip it over your shoulder whether you’re wearing a lightweight top or a bulky coat. It’s just as comfortable to grip by hand or sling over your arm.

Hardware is intentionally kept to a minimum on this Coach tote. The brand’s famed horse-and-carriage logo graces the front in either gold or silver, depending on the bag’s color, while a delicate tonal hangtag suspended from the handle completes the look. Both the heritage-inspired canvas and the smooth leather tote brim with understated elegance. 

It’s a true workhorse of a bag that will fit nicely into anyone’s collection. The real advantage of owning a sizable tote like this is the convenience factor — it’s suitable for work, weekends, and everything in between. At the same time, it’s polished enough to add a sophisticated edge to your most casual outfits. You’ll get the best of all worlds with this style!

Related: Suede Purses Are Trending for Fall, and Coach’s Super-Chic Bags Are an Autumnal Dream

With the holiday season quickly approaching, now is also a good time to consider the fashion lovers on your list. Coach bags are among the most popular for their practicality and versatility, and this may fit the bill if you’re shopping for someone who appreciates truly good style. It’s well-made and built to last.

One Coach Outlet shopper dubbed it a “girl’s best friend,” adding that it makes the “perfect” laptop bag. Another person praised the “absolutely gorgeous” design and called it an “extremely luxurious” style that “always elevates” any look.

Shop More Coach Outlet Deals

Whether you’re treating yourself or looking for a special gift for a VIP in your life, the Coach City Tote Bag could be exactly what you need. Head to Coach Outlet to shop the full range of colors at 36% off for a limited 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.

7 Types of Lentils and the Best Way To Cook Each One

Thu, 10/15/2026 - 4:00pm

A bag of lentils may not look especially complicated. Add some water, simmer until tender and dinner is on its way, right? Mostly.

But anyone who has ever swapped one type of lentil for another knows the results can be surprisingly different. Some stay firm enough to toss into a salad. Others soften until they practically disappear into a pot of soup or dal. Then, there are certain varieties that need a leisurely simmer, while others are tender before the rest of dinner is ready.

The variations aren’t just visual, either. The U.S. Department of Agriculture identifies six primary lentil color groups—red, yellow, green, brown, French green and black—but notes measurable differences in their structural composition and cooking performance.

So, which bag belongs in your soup, salad or curry? Here’s what separates seven common types of lentils—and how to get the best results from each one.

Related: Black Beans vs. Kidney Beans: Which One Should You Use?

What Are Lentils?

Lentils are pulses, the dry edible seeds of plants in the legume family. The USDA maintains official standards governing the grading and commercial classification of lentils sold in the United States. And they’re far from one-size-fits-all.

USDA researchers studying six commonly consumed lentil types found measurable differences among red, yellow, green, brown, French green and black varieties. For cooks, though, the most noticeable differences are generally much simpler: how long a lentil takes to become tender and whether it stays intact or breaks down as it cooks.

USA Pulses notes that some lentils, including Pardinas and belugas, hold their shape particularly well, while split red lentils soften quickly enough to work as natural thickeners for soups and purées. That’s where choosing the right type can make or break a recipe.

Related: 65 Black Bean Recipes That Will Add a Flavor-Packed Protein Punch to Meals

7 Different Varieties of Lentils Explained

Gilnature / Getty Images

1. Brown Lentils
  • Best Way To Cook Them: Simmer gently until just tender, particularly if you want the individual lentils to remain intact.
  • Best Use: Soups, stews, veggie burgers, casseroles and simple side dishes.

For many American shoppers, brown lentils are the familiar bag simply labeled “lentils.” They’re mild, earthy and extremely versatile, which makes them a useful all-purpose choice when a recipe doesn’t specify anything exotic.

Culinary experts consulted by Serious Eats describe brown lentils as tender after cooking, yet still able to hold their shape if not overcooked. A gentle simmer for roughly 20 to 30 minutes is a useful starting point, although the lentils’ age and size can affect how quickly they become tender.

2. Green Lentils
  • Best Way To Cook Them: Keep the pot at a gentle simmer and cook until tender but still pleasantly firm.
  • Best Use: Salads, grain bowls, pilafs, hearty soups and side dishes.

Green lentils are generally firmer than standard brown lentils, making them a good option when texture matters. USA Pulses identifies green as one of the common commercial lentil types, while USDA research recognizes standard green lentils as one of the six major color groups it studied.

From a culinary standpoint, their biggest advantage is staying power. Serious Eats notes that green lentils tend to hold their shape better than brown lentils, making them especially useful when you want distinct lentils rather than a creamy finished dish.

Related: 32 Cheap and Easy Meals That Start With a Basic Can of Black Beans

etienne voss / Getty Images

3. French Green Lentils
  • Best Way To Cook Them: Simmer gently until tender, taking advantage of their naturally firm texture rather than cooking them until creamy.
  • Best Use: Lentil salads, warm vegetable dishes, grain bowls and composed sides.

French green lentils aren’t just ordinary green lentils with a fancier name. They’re typically smaller and firmer than standard varieties, which makes them a favorite for salads or sides with roasted vegetables and vinaigrette.

One terminology warning: You’ll sometimes see French green lentils and Lentilles du Puy treated as interchangeable, but true Lentilles vertes du Puy are tied to a protected geographic origin in France. A French-style green lentil grown elsewhere isn’t automatically a Puy lentil.

4. Black or Beluga Lentils
  • Best Way To Cook Them: Simmer gently and stop when they’re tender but still intact. If presentation matters, avoid aggressively stirring them toward the end.
  • Best Use: Salads, grain bowls, roasted vegetables and side dishes.

It’s easy to see where these lentils got their nickname. Beluga lentils are small, glossy and black, giving them an appearance that has been compared to beluga caviar.

In the kitchen, their real advantage is texture. USA Pulses notes that beluga lentils hold their shape particularly well after cooking. This makes them an excellent choice for salads, grain bowls and side dishes.

5. Pardina Lentils
  • Best Way To Cook Them: Give them a gentle simmer and start checking for tenderness rather than relying solely on a timer. Their small size doesn’t mean you need to cook them until they break apart.
  • Best Use: Salads, soups, stews and side dishes where you want intact lentils.

Pardinas—frequently sold as Spanish brown lentils—are smaller and darker than standard brown lentils, with a thin skin and a distinctively nutty, earthy flavor profile. While historically rooted in northern Spanish cooking, today they are widely cultivated in the Pacific Northwest.

What makes Pardinas stand out in the kitchen is their structural durability. According to USA Pulses, Pardina lentils hold their shape exceptionally well throughout the cooking process. Their firm outer coat allows the center to become soft and creamy without the lentil blowing open or dissolving into mush—making them a foolproof choice for chilled salads, hearty stews and grain bowls where you want each lentil to keep its distinct shape.

Related: I Tried 11 Different Brands of Canned Baked Beans and the Winner Had a Surprising Secret Ingredient

Almaje / Getty Images

6. Whole Red Lentils
  • Best Way To Cook Them: Simmer until completely tender. If you’re deliberately using whole reds because you want more structure, start testing them before they become too soft.
  • Best Use: Dals, soups, stews, salads and veggie patties.

Red lentils can be confusing because they’re sold in more than one form. Whole red lentils retain their outer seed coat, while the bright orange or salmon-colored lentils commonly found in many U.S. supermarkets have usually been hulled and split.

USA Pulses lists whole red and split red lentils separately, noting that whole red lentils require a longer cooking time than split versions.

7. Split Red Lentils
  • Best Way To Cook Them: Simmer them directly in the dish you’re trying to thicken and let their tendency to break apart work in your favor.
  • Best Use: Dal-style dishes, curries, creamy soups, purées and sauces.

If speed is the priority, split red lentils are hard to beat. Because the seed coat has been removed and the lentil has been split, these cook much faster than whole varieties.

USA Pulses says most whole lentils require roughly 20 to 40 minutes of simmering, while split red lentils can cook in just 5 to 10 minutes. The organization specifically recommends them as a thickener for soups and purées because of how readily they break down.

Of course, exact cooking time varies by product, age and the texture you’re trying to achieve. The important part isn’t the stopwatch. It’s the transformation, as split red lentils are supposed to soften and become creamy.

Related: These Are the 6 Healthiest Beans and Legumes You Can Eat, According to Dietitians

Do Lentils Need To Be Soaked Before Cooking?

Usually, no—and that’s one of the reasons lentils make such a convenient pantry staple.

Unlike larger dried legumes, lentils are thin-skinned enough to tenderize quickly without a long overnight soak. According to nutrition experts at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, pre-soaking isn’t necessary, though giving them a quick rinse and picking through them in a fine-mesh strainer to remove any stray pebbles or farm debris is essential.

When you’re ready to cook, use a standard ratio of three cups of liquid (water or broth) for every cup of dried lentils. Bring the pot to a boil, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and let them cook uncovered—most whole varieties take between 20 and 40 minutes, while split varieties break down in as little as 5 to 10 minutes.

One helpful rule of thumb: Don’t rely strictly on the clock. Lentils that have been sitting in the pantry for a while lose moisture over time and can take longer to soften, making a quick taste test for texture far more reliable than a timer.

Which Lentils Hold Their Shape Best?

If you’re making a salad or another dish where individual lentils should stay distinct, you have several options. USA Pulses specifically points to Pardinas and belugas as varieties that retain their shape particularly well, while culinary guidance gives French green lentils especially high marks for firmness.

Brown lentils occupy more of a middle ground: They can stay intact when cooked carefully but become softer if allowed to simmer longer. Split red lentils sit firmly at the other end of the spectrum.

Related: Here’s Exactly What Happens to Your Body When You Eat Lentils Every Day

Which Lentils Are Best for Soup?

It depends on the kind of soup you’re making.

For a hearty, rustic soup where you want individual lentils to remain clearly visible alongside vegetables, brown or green lentils are your most reliable choice. Culinary guides from Food Network Kitchen highlight flat brown and green varieties as the go-to options for classic soups because they soften comfortably without losing their structure.

Want something richer and creamier?

Reach for split red lentils. Their tendency to break down rapidly isn’t a defect—it’s what makes them the ultimate natural thickener for velvety purées, rich stews and traditional dal-style dishes.

Ultimately, that’s the easiest way to make sense of all those options in the grocery aisle. Don’t choose a lentil based on color alone; choose it based on how you want it to perform once it hits the pot.

Related: 14 Popular Types of Beans, Listed and Explained

This article was drafted with the assistance of AI and thoroughly reviewed, edited and fact-checked by Parade editors. See our complete AI Policy.

Drew Carey's Girlfriend, Age, and Health: What to Know About 'The Price Is Right' Host

Thu, 10/15/2026 - 3:57pm

Hosting The Price is Right since 2007 has been a perfect fit for Drew Carey, who previously emceed the game show Whose Line Is It Anyway from 1998 to 2007.

The Price is Right is America’s longest-running game show, dating back to 1972, and Carey picked up the gig following Bob Barker‘s retirement at age 83.

Carey, who was the star of the sitcom The Drew Carey Show from 1995 to 2004, was born in Cleveland on May 23, 1958, and raised in nearby Parma, Ohio.

He is 68 at press time.

He attended Kent State University, where he was a member of Delta Tau Delta fraternity, and was part of the Marine Reserves from 1980 to 1986.

He got his start as a comedian in 1986 at the Cleveland Comedy Club, before appearing on Star Search in 1988, and The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson in 1991.

Who is Drew Carey’s girlfriend?

Carey has not gone public with a current girlfriend as of October 2026.

He was connected to OnlyFans creator Niki Skyler in April 2025 after they were spotted on a lunch date in Los Angeles, but sources told Page Six they had been “friends for almost ten years.”

The comedian has never been married, but he was engaged to L.A.-based sex and family therapist Dr. Amie Harwick in 2018, and chef Nicole Jaracz from 2007 to 2012. Both engagements ended before they tied the knot.

Tragically, Harwick was murdered in February 2020 by her ex-boyfriend, Gareth Pursehouse.

It still haunts the game show host.

“She’s with me always,” Carey told PEOPLE in 2024. “A lot of times I’ll feel like I’ll be thinking things through, and it’s almost like I can hear her voice saying, ‘Well, really, it’s because of this and that.’ It’s really nice, honestly.”

The following year, he opened up about the deeper impact her loss had on him.

“I have women I go out with and spend time with, but it’s all platonic, and I don’t care about anything else,” he told Us Weekly in 2025. “Amie’s death really affected everything.”

Carey added, “I think about her every day. It’s such a loss. Her death still affects me and my ideas about relationships and intimacy.”

A well-known Hollywood author and marriage and sex therapist, Harwick had been briefly engaged to television host Drew Carey in 2018. On February 15, she was strangled and thrown from a balcony to her death at age 38. An ex-boyfriend, Gareth Pursehouse, whom Harwick had filed restraining orders against, was charged with her murder. Did Drew Carey have a heart attack?

Carey had a heart attack in 2001, and opened up about the experience in 2026 on Ted Danson‘s podcast, Where Everybody Shows Your Name.

He started jogging because he wanted to lose weight, and wore a heart monitor. He recalled that his “heart rate went up to something really crazy,” his “shoulder felt numb” and he started feeling “all the things that I read were heart attack symptoms.”

Still, he brushed it off, deciding instead to have dinner with his girlfriend at Bob’s Big Boy and go to work on The Drew Carey Show the following day.

“I thought if you had a heart attack, you would go and fall down, like in a cartoon,” he said.

While in the writers’ room, things changed.

“I felt something in my chest again tighten up,” he said. “I went, ‘Oh, I’ll be right back. Let me go to my trailer.’”

But when he struggled, he asked a producer to call for an ambulance, saying, “I think I’m having a heart attack.”

He was out of the hospital two days later and got a stent in one of his arteries.

Drew Carey arrives at Disney’s California Adventure for a private pre-opening party for celebrities and special guests on 2/7/01. The new park is adjacent to Disneyland in Anaheim, Ca. and it opens to the public 2/8/01. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images). (Los Angeles) How is Drew Carey’s health?

Carey was diagnosed with heart disease in 2001 and underwent an angioplasty.

In 2010, he developed type 2 diabetes.

His doctor urged him to change his lifestyle, saying if he didn’t, his life was “going to be shorter” and that he would have “bad things to look forward to,” Carey told PEOPLE.

How did Drew Carey lose weight?

After being told by a doctor in 2010 that he needed to change his lifestyle to prolong his life, he lost 80 lbs., upped his cardio, and ran a 10K race.

“I was sick of being fat on the camera,” Carey told PEOPLE. “Really, I just got sick of it. Once I started losing weight, again, like once I started dropping a couple pant sizes, then it was easy ’cause once you see the results, then you don’t wanna stop.”

Because his health improved so much, he was able to reverse type 2 diabetes and no longer needs medication for the condition.

Carey has said he maintains the weight loss by eating “no carbs,” and instead enjoys protein such as grilled chicken and snacks such as vegetables and fruit, avoiding “starches of any kind,” he told PEOPLE.

He credits 45-minute cardio workouts several times per week for keeping him in shape. He started out on the elliptical and got into running after he shed the pounds.

“I actually love running more than working out on the elliptical,” he told Runner’s World. “Now if I get on the elliptical, I feel like I’m trapped.”

What is his 2000 memoir Dirty Jokes and Beer: Stories of the Unrefined about?

Carey’s autobiography covers his difficult childhood, which included losing his father Lewis Carey to a brain tumor when he was 8, and dealing with sexual abuse by an extended family member.

Did Drew Carey attempt suicide?

According to his book, he faced depression and attempted suicide twice before the age of 25.

“I think the suicide attempts were calls for help,” Carey said on HBO Max’s Who’s Talking to Chris Wallace in 2024.

The first time was at a fraternity party.

“I was so mad that everybody was having a good time,” he said. “I remember that. I remember walking down the stairs and everybody’s drinking and I was like, ‘What the hell are they so happy about?’”

He continued, “I was just angry that they were so happy. I was just tired of my life and [thought], who’s gonna miss me?”

Sometimes he still feels that way.

“I have a lot of that still,” he said. “Like, the who’s-gonna-miss-me type of thing. A lot of times I think to myself. Like, if I die, I’m just gonna have my body cremated. No funeral and anything associated with, like, all my mementos and stuff. You can just burn them and give them away. Like, who cares?”

He turned his life around in the Marines.

Boot camp provided “three meals a day” and “purpose” compared to being “broke, lost, and sleeping on my brother’s couch.”

Then, he found peace through self-help books gained confidence through comedy.

“I still get depressed, often, just like everyone else,” Carey told Wallace. “But it’s not as bad. I mean, just because you’re a celebrity and you have money doesn’t mean bad things don’t happen to you or you don’t have bad days. Everybody’s a person.”

Is Drew Carey related to Jim Carrey?

Although they are both comedians who became household names in the 1990s, they are not related. Carey grew up in Cleveland while Carrey is from Ontario, Canada. Their last names are also spelled differently.

Is Drew Carey related to Mariah Carey?

No, Drew is not related to Mariah, whose father is of Venezuelan and African descent, but they also found fame in the 1990s.

Does Drew Carey own a sports team?

Carey has been a minority owner of Major League Soccer’s Seattle Sounders FC, who won MLS Cup titles in 2016 and 2019, since 2009.

'70s Rockers Shockingly Just Named No. 2 ‘Greatest Band of All Time,’ Beating Led Zeppelin and the Rolling Stones

Thu, 10/15/2026 - 3:44pm

The Beatles being named the greatest band of all time? Even some disgruntled music fans can apparently live with that. It’s the band sitting directly behind the Fab Four that’s causing considerably more controversy.

Black Sabbath was just named the No. 2 greatest band of all time in Consequence’s new ranking of the 100 Best Bands of All Time, putting the heavy metal pioneers ahead of some formidable competition.

The Velvet Underground landed at No. 3, followed by Miles Davis’ Second Great Quintet at No. 4 and Radiohead at No. 5. But two placements in particular make Black Sabbath’s No. 2 finish especially surprising: The Rolling Stones didn’t appear until No. 6, while Led Zeppelin barely cracked the Top 10 at No. 10.

And music fans definitely noticed.

“Black Sabbath 2nd? I think not,” one Parade reader commented, arguing that Cream should have been No. 2 and that Pink Floyd and Vanilla Fudge belonged in the Top 10. “I hate these compilations.”

Another fan was particularly perplexed by the four-position gap between Black Sabbath and the Rolling Stones.

“Black Sabbath at #2, four places ahead of the Rolling Stones?” the reader wrote. “Not that they aren’t great bands, but I just don’t see them as being among the ten greatest ever.”

The fan wondered whether having musicians contribute to the ranking may actually have skewed its results, adding, “Again, how does Black Sabbath come out over the Stones? smh.”

Others were considerably less diplomatic. “Bro this is the worst list I’ve ever seen in my life,” one person wrote on TikTok.

Consequence didn’t simply have its editorial staff pick 100 bands. More than 70 artists helped shape the ranking before the publication’s staff rounded out and curated the final list.

The contributors included Paul Stanley, Kenny Loggins, Brandi Carlile, Danny Elfman, Lisa Loeb, Lindsey Stirling, Josh Homme, Jason Newsted, Taking Back Sunday and the members of Greta Van Fleet, among many others.

And several musicians made a compelling case for Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler and Bill Ward occupying such rarefied air.

Related: 55 Years Ago Today, ‘Greatest Metal Album of All Time’ Hit the Billboard 200

Mastodon drummer Brann Dailor pointed to the band’s extraordinary early run, saying Black Sabbath’s first six albums were “pretty much unreal.”

“What a run. That’s insane,” Dailor said, praising the band’s musical variety and experimentation. “They’re just wildly creative.”

Anthrax bassist Frank Bello was similarly effusive about the group that helped create the musical genre that would eventually become his own.

“Just riffs, heaviness, depth, bass playing, for God’s sake. It’s just got everything,” Bello said. “It’s the start of it all.”

Greta Van Fleet offered an even more succinct explanation for Black Sabbath’s lofty position: “They sort of invented modern metal.”

Not everyone thought No. 2 was too high, either.

One fan responding to Consequence’s Facebook post called it “a pretty strong list” and was pleased to see Black Sabbath finally get its flowers.

“Nice to see one of these lists give Black Sabbath their proper due at #2 overall too,” the commenter wrote.

Another offered a review that might sum up the reaction to the ranking better than anything else: “Decent list. Wrong order. #1 is correct. That’s it.”

Black Sabbath’s influence is difficult to dispute. Formed in Birmingham, England, in 1968, the band helped forge the sound that became heavy metal with albums including Black Sabbath, Paranoid, Master of Reality and Vol. 4.

Whether that influence makes Black Sabbath the second-greatest band ever, ahead of the Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin, Nirvana, Fleetwood Mac and dozens of other hugely influential groups, is another matter entirely.

And judging by the reaction to the new ranking, music fans may be arguing about that one for quite a while.

Related: Rock Legend Arrested For Public Urination at Alamo 44 Years Ago Today

'All My Children' Lifetime Revival Secures Writer for Second Film

Thu, 10/15/2026 - 3:28pm

Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos are hard at work on the potential All My Children revival movie series at Lifetime, and according to Daytime Confidential, the second film has found its writer.

Daytime Confidential journalist Jillian Bowe reports that former Star writer Leo Richardson is on board to pen the sequel to Daytime Emmy winner Ron Carlivati and Jamey Giddens’ All My Children film. Giddens recently shared that the film’s completed script had been turned in earlier this year.

While no specific storylines or timelines for the films have been revealed, it was previously teased that the films will look at life in a modern-day Pine Valley and show what has happened to Erica Kane (Susan Lucci) and Dr. Maria Santos Gray (Eva LaRue) since the show’s finale.

The films are also expected to give a glimpse into the lives of Hayley (Ripa) and Mateo (Consuelos) since their exit from the series.

This is not Richardson’s first time in the world of All My Children. Previously, he worked alongside Ripa and Consuelos to pen Pine Valley for ABC prime time. A modern reimagining of the soap opera was expected to feature a young journalist who came to Pine Valley with a secret agenda to “expose the dark and murderous history of the town,” and who became “entangled in a feud between the Kane and Santos families.”

All My Children originally aired from January 5, 1970 until September 23, 2011. The series then had a brief online revival when it was rebooted by production company Prospect Park and broadcast on Hulu. Still, it quickly came to a close after 43 episodes on September 2, 2013.

Since the series’ cancellation, the world of Pine Valley has remained alive as characters have crossed over to ABC’s last remaining soap opera, General Hospital, such as Jackson Montgomery (Walt Willey).

TVLine’s Michael Ausiello first reported Lifetime’s interest in reviving All My Children in September 2024. Since then, as Parade previously reported, Susan Lucci has expressed interest in returning to the franchise.

Elaine Frontain Bryant, Executive Vice President and Head of Programming for Lifetime, spoke to the Los Angeles Times and shared how the films fit within the Lifetime brand: “Lifetime is always interested in shows that kind of tap into a powerful nostalgia that can be made fresh for today’s audience,” acknowledging that “There’s a whole generation of women that have missed these stories and these characters.”

While no production details have been set for the All My Children revival, fans are hopeful that they will be able to return to their beloved Pine Valley soon.

Joanna Gaines' 'Soft' $81 Area Rug Has an Heirloom Look With 'Gorgeous' Vintage-Style Details

Thu, 10/15/2026 - 3:15pm

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Creating a home that feels warm and thoughtfully styled doesn’t mean everything has to look brand new or perfectly pristine. Sometimes, a vintage-inspired rug with faded colors and a slightly distressed finish brings more character to a room than a clean, modern design. It adds that lived-in charm associated with quiet luxury, making your space feel inviting without looking overly decorated.

You don’t have to spend weekends browsing antique shops to get the look, either. The Magnolia Home by Joanna Gaines x Loloi Millie Slate Area Rug is currently on sale for 46% off at Wayfair for the 3-foot-6-inch by 5-foot-6-inch size. Its price has dropped from $149 to just $81, saving you $68 on a timeless piece.

Magnolia Home by Joanna Gaines x Loloi Millie Slate Area Rug, $81 (was $149) at Wayfair 

Courtesy of Wayfair

Shop at Wayfair

There are also 12 other shapes and sizes available, making it easy to find an option that best suits your layout. Rectangular rugs range from 3 feet 6 inches by 5 feet 6 inches to 11 feet 6 inches by 15 feet 7 inches, and there are also round, square, and runner styles. Whether you need a smaller accent for a bedroom or a larger rug to anchor your living room, there are options to fit different spaces.

The design takes inspiration from traditional Turkish Oushak rugs, known for their decorative floral motifs and intricate patterns. Its softened colors and distressed finish give the pattern a gently faded appearance, while the fringed edges add another vintage-inspired detail. Because the colors aren’t overly bold, the rug can complement a variety of furniture styles, including bohemian, farmhouse, and traditional interiors.

Related: Walmart Is Selling a Rattan Lamp That Adds a ‘Calming’ Earthy Touch to Spaces, Now Over 40% Off

Looks aside, the rug is designed for everyday living. It’s made from polyester with a woven construction intended to hold up to regular use, and its low pile measures just 0.25 inches. That relatively flat surface makes it easy to vacuum and practical for high-traffic areas such as kitchens, hallways, and living rooms. It’s also pet-friendly, making it a useful option for homes where people and pets are constantly on the move. The rug has an Oeko-Tex certification, which indicates that it has been tested for certain harmful substances.

Shoppers praised its appearance and practical design. One reviewer described it as “very beautiful,” writing, “It flattens out quickly within 24 hours and looks very high end but has a great price. So far, it cleans up well, and it is very low profile for our busy kitchen area.” Another shopper shared, “This is an absolutely gorgeous rug! It’s subtle, soft, and very worth it!”

Shop More Rug Deals

If you’re looking to add vintage character without the upkeep or expense of an antique rug, the Magnolia Home by Joanna Gaines x Loloi Millie Slate Area Rug is a stylish option. With Wayfair’s current 46% discount, the 3-foot-6-inch by 5-foot-6-inch size costs just $81 instead of $149, saving you $68 on a versatile piece that can bring warmth and texture to your home.

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 6-Piece Velvet Sheet Sets Are Plush, Warm and Perfect for Fall

Thu, 10/15/2026 - 3:10pm

It’s getting chilly out there, folks, which means it’s time to upgrade your bedding for the colder nights ahead. Swapping lightweight sheets for something warmer is a great idea, and right now Aldi is selling the prettiest plush velvet six-piece sheet set for under $30, which is a steal considering everything you get.

Aldi’s Kirkton House Floral Velvet Plush Sheet Set comes in queen and king sizes, and each set retails for $29.99. With a cream background and a vibrant multi-colored fallen-leaves print in pretty shades of orange, navy blue, purple and beige, this charming sheet set is perfect for fall and winter. They will look so pretty styled on your bed.

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Kirkton House Floral Velvet Plush Sheet Set, King, $29.99 at Aldi

Aldi

Beyond being pretty, this sheet set is also super plush and warm. It’s made of soft, cozy velvet, making it ideal for chilly nights. You will love cuddling up in this sheet set. Each set includes six pieces: a fitted sheet, a flat sheet, two pillow shams and two pillowcases.

You can pick up this beautiful velvet sheet set at select Aldi stores right now as part of Aldi Finds, products that come and go every single week. Shop quickly if you see something you’re interested in; these finds never stick around for long!

Related: Aldi’s Beautiful Blue Mini Baking Pans Are Perfect for Serving Up Solo-Size Desserts

Other Aldi Finds to Shop

If you’re interested in shopping other Aldi Finds, be sure to check out these four-piece blackout curtain sets that add luxury hotel vibes to any bedroom, these sleek bamboo organizers that will seriously level up your kitchen pantry organization, this cozy throw blanket that’s perfect for creating a soft, layered look on your bed this fall or this charming floral 3-piece comforter set that’s the prettiest bedroom refresh for autumn.

Related: Aldi’s Sweet Holiday Accent Rugs Add Instant Holiday Cheer for Just $8

Crème Fraîche vs. Sour Cream: Which One Should You Use?

Thu, 10/15/2026 - 3:00pm

Crème fraîche and sour cream sit in the same refrigerated case, arrive in similarly compact tubs and bring cultured tang to everything from baked potatoes to sauces. But when you put a spoonful of each side by side, the similarities start to fade.

Crème fraîche is exceptionally rich and mellow, while sour cream tends to have a lighter body with a more noticeable tang. Those differences come largely from fat content and how the creams are made, which can have a surprisingly big effect on everything from pan sauces to baked goods.

So, when can you swap one for the other? And does it really matter which one you use? Here’s what separates crème fraîche from sour cream and where each belongs in your kitchen.

Related: Mascarpone vs. Cream Cheese: What’s the Real Difference?

What Is Crème Fraîche?

Crème fraîche is a French cultured cream made by fermenting cream with lactic-acid-producing bacteria. Traditional versions were associated with unpasteurized cream, but commercial products in the United States generally use pasteurized cream and selected cultures, according to Illinois Extension.

The starting cream is usually richer than the one used for standard sour cream, which accounts for crème fraîche’s fuller texture. It thickens as the cultures produce lactic acid, but the flavor usually remains mild, tangy and nutty rather than sharply sour.

That combination makes crème fraîche especially useful in cream-based sauces, pan gravies, soups and desserts. It can also be spooned over fruit, folded into mashed potatoes or used in place of whipped cream when a cultured note is welcome. Its consistency is thick enough to mound, yet soft enough to stir into a sauce without much effort.

Because crème fraîche is a cultured version of heavy cream, it occupies a different part of the dairy spectrum than sour cream. Escoffier describes crème fraîche as cultured heavy cream that can blend directly into hot sauces, while sour cream is more prone to curdling. It is still acidic, but the extra richness tends to soften that acidity on the palate.

Related: Heavy Cream vs. Heavy Whipping Cream: Is There Actually a Difference?

What Is Sour Cream?

Vladimir Mironov / Getty Images

Sour cream begins with pasteurized cream that is soured by lactic acid-producing bacteria, but its composition and standard are different enough to give it a personality all its own.

In the United States, sour cream actually has a federal standard of identity. Under 21 CFR § 131.160, regular sour cream must contain at least 18 percent milkfat and reach at least 0.5 percent titratable acidity, measured as lactic acid. The regulation also permits ingredients that improve texture, limit whey separation or extend shelf life.

Commercial sour cream may also include stabilizers or other permitted ingredients, so the ingredient list can vary by brand. That lower fat level gives sour cream a lighter, more sharply tangy profile than crème fraîche. It is thick and spoonable, with enough body for dips, frostings, baked potatoes, tacos, enchiladas and cheesecake-style fillings.

Sour cream also performs well in baking because its acidity can contribute tenderness and flavor in batters. In a hot, thin sauce, however, the combination of lower fat, acid and high temperature can cause the dairy proteins to separate. For this reason, Illinois Extension recommends adding sour cream near the end of cooking when using it in sauces.

Those differences do not erase the main culinary distinction: sour cream is generally brighter and leaner, while crème fraîche is richer and more heat-tolerant.

Crème Fraîche vs. Sour Cream: How Do They Compare?

At first glance, crème fraîche and sour cream can look almost interchangeable. Both are pale, thick and spoonable. The biggest differences become more obvious once you taste and cook with them.

The richness is perhaps the easiest difference to notice. The key difference is fat content: crème fraîche is typically made from cultured heavy cream, while U.S. sour cream must contain at least 18 percent milkfat. That extra fat gives crème fraîche a rounder mouthfeel and a better chance of staying cohesive as the mixture warms. Curdling becomes more likely with high heat, prolonged cooking and acidic conditions, while starch can help stabilize milk and cream sauces.

Sour cream also has more bite. That stronger acidic edge comes from its cultured dairy base and makes it particularly useful when a dish needs contrast rather than extra richness.

In summary: Crème fraîche tends to make food richer and creamier with a smoother margin for error in warm dishes, while sour cream provides lean body, bright tang and acidity.

Characteristics

Crème Fraîche

Sour Cream

Texture

Thick, rich and smooth; often softens readily into sauces

Thick and spoonable, with a lighter body and more pronounced tang

Flavor

Mildly tangy, creamy and sometimes faintly nutty

Sharper lactic tang with a clean cultured flavor

Fat content

Cultured heavy cream is commonly higher in milkfat

At least 18 percent milkfat under U.S. standards

How it’s made

Cream fermented with lactic-acid-producing cultures

Pasteurized cream soured by lactic-acid-producing bacteria

Heat behavior

Generally blends into hot sauces with less risk of curdling

More likely to curdle under high heat or prolonged cooking

Common uses

Pan sauces, soups, desserts, garnishes and rich finishing sauces

Dips, baked goods, toppings, dressings and chilled preparations

Can You Substitute Crème Fraîche for Sour Cream?

Yes, crème fraîche can usually replace sour cream in dips, baked goods, toppings and dressings. Just don’t expect the finished dish to taste exactly the same.

Using crème fraîche instead of sour cream generally makes a recipe richer, softer and less tangy, especially if the recipe uses a generous amount. In a cake, muffin or quick bread, a direct swap may change the crumb slightly because the products do not have identical fat levels or acidity. The recipe should still function, but the result may be richer and less tangy.

If the acidity is important, add a small amount of lemon juice or vinegar to the crème fraîche, then taste before adding more. The adjustment should be gradual because the goal is to restore brightness without making the mixture thin or harsh.

The opposite substitution can work, too. Sour cream can replace crème fraîche in cold applications, but the swap is less dependable in a hot sauce.

When using sour cream in a hot sauce, lower the heat, stir the sour cream with a little of the warm liquid first, and add it near the end. If the recipe requires a long simmer, sour cream may separate even with careful handling.

Related: Panko or Breadcrumbs? When To Use Each for the Best Crunch

Which One Works Better in Hot Sauces?

Crème fraîche is the more practical choice for a sauce that will stay warm. Its higher-fat structure helps it blend into pan sauces, cream sauces and soups without the same degree of curdling risk associated with sour cream. It should still be heated gently rather than boiled hard.

Sour cream can work in warm dishes when the heat is controlled. Stir it in after the pot comes off a full boil, or combine it with a starch-thickened base. A spoonful stirred into chili, soup or braising liquid at the table avoids the problem altogether.

Which One Is Better for Toppings and Dips?

Sour cream is often the better choice when you want a distinct tang to cut through rich or spicy food. It works naturally with baked potatoes, nachos, tacos, chili, deviled eggs and creamy dips.

Crème fraîche is useful when the topping should taste more mellow and luxurious. Try it with roasted vegetables, smoked fish, fruit, pancakes or a dessert that needs cultured richness without a strong sour note.

Texture can vary between brands, so check whether the product is labeled low-fat, whipped or flavored before substituting. Those versions may not behave like a full-fat plain product in a recipe.

Related: Rice Vinegar vs. White Vinegar: They’re More Different Than You Think

How Should You Store These Cultured Creams?

Keep both products refrigerated at 40°F or below, and use clean utensils to limit contamination after opening. FoodSafety.gov advises using cold-storage guidance to reduce spoilage and food-safety risks.

Pasteurized products are the safer everyday choice, particularly for pregnant people, older adults, young children and anyone with a weakened immune system. FoodSafety.gov warns that raw milk and dairy products made from it can carry harmful bacteria, so homemade or imported crème fraîche made with unpasteurized cream deserves extra caution.

A little separation or liquid on the surface does not automatically mean the product has spoiled. Stir it if the smell and appearance remain normal, but discard dairy with mold, an unpleasant odor, unusual discoloration or a package that is swollen.

When Should You Use Crème Fraîche Instead of Sour Cream?
  • Choose crème fraîche when you are making a hot sauce, finishing a soup, folding cultured cream into a dessert or looking for richer texture with restrained acidity.
  • Choose sour cream when you want a brighter tang for a topping, dip, dressing or baked good, or when the recipe names sour cream and its acidity is part of the intended balance.
  • Use either one when the ingredient is stirred into a cold preparation and the difference between mellow richness and sharper tang will not upset the dish. For a direct swap, adjust acidity and heat rather than treating the two creams as identical.

Related: Custard vs. Pudding: What’s the Difference Between the Two Desserts?

'The Amazing Race 39's Jody Rebhun and Jenn Naso Reveal the Real Reason They Used Their Express Pass — And If It Haunts Them (Exclusive)

Thu, 10/15/2026 - 2:59pm

Pack your bags, because The Amazing Race is back! Every week, Parade’s Mike Bloom will bring you interviews with the team most recently eliminated from the race.

Jody Rebhun and Jenn Naso came onto The Amazing Race 39 with one key thing on their side: History. The two had a friendship that’s older than some of their competitors on the race, being there for each other through the myriad highs and lows in their lives. But, in their first major highlight of the season, history was not on their side. Arriving to the Detour in Madrid, Jody was eager to showcase her day-to-day skills, tasked with identifying a series of Spanish historical icons. But Jenn, anxious that they were too far in the back of the pack, immediately pushed for them to use their Express Pass. For a brief period of time, it became a case of an unstoppable force meeting an immovable object.

In this case, science beat history. Jody and Jenn decided to use their Express Pass, a decision the former almost immediately regretted, even saying, “I’m an embarrassment to history teachers everywhere.” Regardless, the two tried to put their mixed emotions aside as they flew to Morocco, eager to put it behind them. Unfortunately, the thought of having an Express Pass would almost immediately linger in their minds, as Jenn spent more than two hours stuck at the first task of the leg. Despite her pot-smashing being so unsuccessful, the forensic scientist was able to smash the rest of the leg, as her knowledge of Arabic helped immensely in the Detour. In fact, Jody and Jenn caught up to Doug and Dylan Matter in the final task, nearly pulling off an impossible comeback. However, after starting the day a considerable number of steps behind the other teams, they ended it with only a few away from the mat, as the grandfather/grandson duo beat them out in a close finish.

Now, out of the race, Jody and Jenn talk about how close they came to actually surviving elimination, what led to using their Express Pass, and what they learned about each other and their 39-year friendship on the race.


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What’s your personal history with The Amazing Race, and what made you make the jump from fans to racers?
Jenn Naso: I was probably the fan first. My mother actually got me involved. She was a huge fan, and she would call me every week and ask me if I watched The Amazing Race. And I didn’t watch it at the time, but then she would proceed to recount the entire episode to me. So I started watching it, so I just knew what she was talking about. And after the first episode, I was hooked and have watched ever since. And that was probably 15-plus years ago. And then I would probably do the same thing to Jodi, where I would say, “You should watch this show,” and then proceed to talk about it quite a bit. I think after the very first season I watched, it was always “one day when I’m on The Amazing Race.” But it was always Jody in my mind who would be my partner.
Jody Rebhun: In a million billion years, I never would have guessed that it was going to be any more than us spending a day together making a silly video and enjoying each other’s company. If I knew that we were going to actually wind up on the show, I probably would have thought a little harder before being like, “Yeah, let’s go make a video.” But it was wonderful. It was absolutely wonderful.

Let’s start with where things ended. We saw you mount this massive comeback in the final couple of tasks, and it was edited to look like a close footrace between you two. But how close were you actually to surviving the leg?
Jenn: So, so close.
Jody: Maybe 30 seconds. It was very, very tight.

Did it simply come down to you missing a crucial turn? You mentioned how you had studied the orientation of the city before arriving.
Jenn: We studied the maps. We knew exactly where Koutoubia Gardens were. We knew it was a very tall building, so we knew where to go. They hide that man so well! [Laughs.]
Jody: They hide Phil pretty good. We are definitely pretty good at navigating. That was definitely one of our strong suits coming into the race. And preparation was big for us. We made good use of time in airports and other places, finding maps, getting good directions, looking at what some of the major sites were in the cities that we were going to be headed to. So we knew our way around. But finding Phil can be pretty tough. And it was late at night, and the call to prayer was happening, which was actually a beautiful thing to witness. So there weren’t as many people on the street to look for directions. And we had a classic Amazing Race fail. We ran real fast in the wrong direction. What are you gonna do?

Your elimination came at the end of an incredibly taxing day, which started with you winding up two hours behind from the Roadblock. Jenn, talk me through your struggles in that task. And what was your headspace like as you kept pushing through the rest of the leg and making up time?
Jenn: Well, I have to say, I thought we were actually in the pots longer than the estimated time allowed for! I thought it was three hours.
Jody: It felt like it was three days we were on the pots.
Jenn: And I have to say, Jody, I think was probably as equally dehydrated as I was. Because she cheered me on the whole time. And that really helped me and kept me going. But when we got in that cab after the pots, I think, at least in my mind, I was like, “We’re done.” It’s The Amazing Race. You never know. But from that point forward, I’m like, “We’re done. Let’s just have fun the rest of the time.”
Jody: And that took so much pressure off. And we wound up being so lucky that there were more challenges for us to get involved in, and more opportunities to come. And, as phenomenal as her athleticism and perseverance were with the pots, Jenn was equally incredible when we were in those dune buggies. Absolutely brilliant. It’s just astounding how quickly she picked up that language, how quickly she memorized it all with very little help from me. And we just had a great time out there in the desert.
Jenn: It was actually really fun.
Jody: It was so fun. We just really wanted to race. Some people really want to win. Some people really want their 15 minutes of fame. We just really wanted to race. We wanted to see the world. And so we were just overjoyed in those moments that it wasn’t over yet. There was another challenge; there was more to it. We could keep racing just a little longer. But it was a very long, long, long day.
Jenn: And I think Jody kind of hit the nail on the head. Obviously, we’re not going to turn down a million dollars, but for us, that wasn’t the ultimate goal. I think our real goal was to make it to the Final Three, because that way we can say we got to go to all the places and do all the things. And then if we won from there, obviously that’d be amazing. But we just wanted to do all the experiences.

So I’m sure as you were going through the pots, Jenn, you were hoping that you had an Express Pass in your pocket. And we need to get into your choice to use it during the Detour in Madrid, which certainly didn’t come without disagreement. What caused you to ultimately use it? I mean, Jody, you left that task saying, “I’m an embarrassment to history teachers everywhere.“
Jody: It was a good moment. It was a great moment for me, Mike. But you’ve got to make the best decision in life, in the race. You make the best decisions you can with the information that you’ve got in front of you. And at the time, it felt like the right decision to make.
Jenn: There were some contextual things that you might not have known behind the scenes, or what you don’t see. And one of them is, as we’re leaving the tomatoes, we actually hear Katie say, “I got it!” So we knew that they were right behind us, and they didn’t get on the same subway as us. But the trains run every seven minutes, so in our mind they are seven minutes behind us. We really knew that the clock was ticking. Obviously, we didn’t know that they got on the wrong train going the wrong direction. Information that would have been useful! However, we don’t have that at the time. And so that was definitely something that was in the back of my mind. The clock is ticking. We don’t really have that much time to attempt this before they show up and potentially use their Express Pass.

The two of you certainly seemed to have some tension about the decision on the way to the Pit Stop. Was that the case?
Jody: We are rock solid. This isn’t a casual friendship. We’ve known each other for nearly 39 years, four decades. And we don’t always agree on everything, and that’s totally fine. We both bring amazing things to the table because we don’t agree on everything. And I think one of the takeaways from the race is going out, interacting with people that don’t have the same experiences that you have, the same perspectives that you have, the same background or culture or heritage. And that’s something that I think we embrace in our own relationship, and that’s something that I think we can embrace with the world around us as well.

Speaking of interacting with different people, when we see the “boss ladies” alliance form in Episode 2, even though you’re not there, they make mention of wanting to bring you in. Did you end up becoming a part of the alliance?
Jenn: We were.
Jody: I believe there was a “boss lady” cheer at some point that happened that we were a part of.
Jenn: So I think the official alliance kind of was at the travel agency between Joanna and Ali, Riley and Ann-Marie, and Saran and Dafina. And then when we actually got to the airport, they kind of brought us in and took us to the side.

Were you able to benefit from the alliance at all?
Jody: I think even before the alliance was officially formed, people were giving each other assistance. Ann-Marie and Riley did a great job in Vancouver of finding maps. Actually the maps that everybody had in Morocco were ones that we had found and shared with Saran and Defina while they were breaking pots, and with Ann-Marie and Riley. Ali and Joanna had already gotten a map. So yeah, we were definitely down to work with some other strong female competitors. But not just strong female competitors. We’re willing to work with anybody.

Yeah, we saw you give out those friendship bracelets!
Jody: And we’re still handing out those friendship bracelets today!

Well, I want to finish by focusing on your own friendship. Despite being friends for 39 years, I’m sure you learned new things about each other racing around the world together. What’s the biggest thing you found out about your partner?
Jody: Oh, sugar. What did I learn about Jenn? You know what? She is so fierce. I always knew that, but she doesn’t give up. She’s got such grit, and this was next level. And also, what we learned, I think, coming home is how to survive heartbreak. This was heartbreaking for us coming home. We were devastated. And seeing how what do you do when you experience setbacks, whether they’re pots in the middle of the desert or something big like getting set home from the race or another larger kind of life crisis. And we immediately looked at each other and said, “We’ve got to keep exploring.” We booked a trip to the Grand Canyon. We hiked that in a day. We’ve got plans to go back to Morocco again in the future. We’re going to keep exploring together.
Jenn: I think just being on The Amazing Race was such a gift, but what’s come after it is even more so. Jody and I, we grew up together. We’re best friends. We talk every single day. We don’t live in the same state, so we don’t really see each other that often. Being through the process of The Amazing Race has brought us together physically in each other’s presence more, I think, in the past year and a half than we’ve had probably the past 15 years.
Jody: You get caught up living your life, raising your kids, doing your middle-aged stuff. And you forget about the things that matter most, which is spending time with the people that matter most. And the race has given that to us.
Jenn: We actually never traveled together! So this experience of the race was the first time we traveled together. And we nailed it! We said we need more adventures. We need more things. And so we plan to keep on keeping on.

Related: ‘The Amazing Race 39’s Katie and Charlotte Schultz Reveal If They Were in the All-Women’s Alliance (Exclusive)

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