Parade
1966 Rock Classic, Banned by Radio Stations, Helped Define a Generation of Music
Some popular tracks that are considered to have defined eras of music weren't always a hit upon their release. The rock band The Byrds was among one of the most influential groups in the late 1960s, with a track that wasn't well received by radio stations and still became a bona fide classic.
"Eight Miles High" was a track by the Byrds, released in March 1966, written primarily by founding member Gene Clark. The lyrics themselves are what led the track to be banned by multiple radio stations shortly after its release. In a publication by the Gavin Report, commentators believed the rock track was alluding to drug use, with the track's title serving as a main part of its chorus.
According to LoudSound, the report read that, "We have dropped Eight Miles High from our recommended playlist. In our opinion, this record implies encouragement and/or approval of the use of marijuana or LSD." At the time, the band denied allegations that the song's lyrics were referring to getting high, with "Eight Miles High" facing a major setback because of the U.S. radio ban in Houston, Baltimore, and Washington.
The track received little to no radio airplay and was believed to have prevented it from entering the Billboard Top 10 list despite its popularity. On the Billboard Hot 100 charts, it landed at No. 14, with the band also performing the track on multiple TV programs after its release.
Related: 1982 Soft Rock Classic, Rejected by an Iconic ’80s Duo, Became a No. 1 Hit Years Later
Bassist Chris Hillman attested that "everybody was getting crazy about marijuana use, so we were immediately branded," and the lyrics never referred to illegal substances. In reality, the song's lyrics were written during a flight with the band to London as part of their tour. Guitarist Roger McGuinn explained it was originally titled "Six Miles High," referring to the altitude commercial airlines fly, but was changed by Clark to "Eight" because it sounded more "poetic" and the Beatles had released "Eight Days a Week."
"Eight Miles High" gained traction among fans as it deviated from the band's sound and was influential in developing the musical styles of psychedelic rock, raga rock, and folk rock. The track also became known as a classic of the counterculture era. A song that should have been a hit for the Byrds was swindled by the radio ban, as well as Clark leaving the band shortly after its release. David Crosby also left the band a year later.
Khloé Kardashian Weighs in on Nancy Guthrie Case: 'It's Mind-Blowing'
Khloé Kardashian just made a bold declaration about the Nancy Guthrie case, as Today co-anchor Savannah Guthrie's mom, 84, remains missing more than 100 days after she was abducted in Tucson, Ariz.
On the May 13 episode of her Khloé in Wunder Land podcast, the reality star chatted with guest Ashley Flowers, the host of Crime Junkie.
"Nancy Guthrie. I mean, is that not heartbreaking?" Kardashian pointed out. "This is 2026. There is nothing? It's mind-blowing."
She continued, "I don't know if I know enough about this case, but like, all the things I was reading about the brother-in-law and that kind of stuff... The ransom notes going to all the media first. How weird was that?"
To conclude her thoughts on the 84-year-old's missing case, Kardashian added, "It's so much, and I can't understand that in 2026, that there's not one piece of information. I just, they're not telling us."
Related: Nancy Guthrie Update: Brian Entin Addresses "Twist" in Case
Early on in the investigation, journalist Ashleigh Banfield claimed that a source told her that Nancy's son-in-law, Tommaso Cioni, was a “prime suspect” in Nancy’s case. Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos refuted the report, saying in a statement, “To be clear … the Guthrie family—to include all siblings and spouses—has been cleared as possible suspects in this case,” per KVOA.
Nanos continued, “The family has been nothing but cooperative and gracious and are victims in this case. To suggest otherwise is not only wrong, it is cruel. The Guthrie family are victims plain and simple.”
More recently, the sheriff shared a hopeful update before vowing that the case wouldn't go cold.
Nancy was last seen at her Catalina Foothills home on the evening of Jan. 31. As of writing, DNA evidence is still being processed, and no suspects have been named in the case, despite Savannah offering a $1 million reward.
Next, Nancy Guthrie Case: Sheriff Chris Nanos’ Fate Decided After Push to Remove Him from Office
Target's 'Beautiful' Wooden Picnic Table Set Is 'Perfect' for Summer Gatherings, and It's Now 50% Off
Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.
A great way to test drive some new recipes is to host a picnic for your closest friends. Aside from the menu, the most important thing you need for a gathering is proper seating. Should you be in need of extra patio furniture this season, Target's outdoor section is stocked with unbeatable sales that you'll love. The Costway 6-Person Round Picnic Table Set has been added to our shopping list while it's 50% off.
The set originally cost $292, but has been marked down to $146 in the yellow colorway. You can shop for the piece in brown as well for $150, which offers more of a dark, modern look, while the yellow hue will brighten up your space. The farmhouse-inspired table is 68 inches long, 62 inches wide, and 28 inches tall. The table can hold up to 220 pounds, while the benches can support up to 550 pounds.
Costway 6-Person Round Picnic Table Set, From $146 (was $292) at Target Shop at TargetThe set features a picnic table in the center that's surrounded by three benches that are attached to the table. There is a 2-inch umbrella hole that you can utilize for shade (just note that you'll have to purchase an umbrella separately). The set is made of fir wood, which is a versatile softwood that's known to be strong and durable, making it ideal for high-quality outdoor furniture.
The picnic table can hold up to six people comfortably, so two guests on each bench. The anti-scratch curved bench is designed to increase comfort and prevent scuffs while in use. The thick wooden legs offer extra stability. You will have to assemble the set upon delivery, but customers said that it's "easy" to put together.
With several five-star ratings, other reviewers described the set as "super cute," "high-quality," "beautiful," "efficient," and "versatile." Another shopper said that the piece is actually "very lightweight," so you can move it around easily. Considering that this table is on the smaller side, customers wrote that it's "perfect" for small backyards and patios.
Shop More Deals- Costway Modern Freestanding Floor Lamp, $100 (was $147) at Target
- Marsail Futon Sofa Bed, $176 (was $320) at Target
- Costway Colorful Square Stools, $75 (was $190) at Target
Get ready to host backyard gatherings this summer. Shop Target's gorgeous picnic table set before this 50% deal disappears!
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.
Fan-Favorite Disney Star Reveals Ketamine Addiction in Bombshell New Memoir
Joshua Bassett is laying it all out.
The 25-year-old High School Musical: The Musical: The Series alum has opened up about a years-long ketamine addiction that began after a near-fatal 2021 health crisis, in a new interview tied to his just-released memoir, Rookie: My Public, Private, and Secret Life.
"Eventually it became this out of control spiral where the only time I felt like I could just exist and cope was when I was out of my mind high," Bassett said.
A Crisis at 20Bassett was 20 when his body gave out. He was hospitalized in January 2021 with septic shock and heart failure. Doctors gave him a 30 percent chance of survival. The hospitalization landed the same day he released his single "Lie Lie Lie," in the heat of the "Drivers License" news cycle, when Olivia Rodrigo's debut single had taken over the internet.
He thought it was food poisoning. It wasn't.
"It's a miracle my life hasn't been taken quite a few times, to be honest," he writes in Rookie.
The Six-Bag Breaking PointThe recovery did not stick. Bassett said he was eventually "consuming six baggies of ketamine, all by myself, every single night." Tolerance climbs roughly 600 percent very fast, he said. A line became a bag.
The breaking point pushed him into recovery. He credits a "profound experience with Jesus that people don't necessarily understand, and I don't expect them to" with finally giving him peace.
What He Wants Readers to Hear"You can't hate yourself out of addiction, you can't shame yourself out of addiction. You can only lovingly invite yourself to a better decision," he writes.
His thesis, in one line: "the cure for addiction is connection."
Rookie is out now.
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use, contact the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357. For mental health support, text "HOME" to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741.
‘Next Level Chef’ Season 5: Who Went Home Tonight? Who Made the Finale?
It’s the semifinals on Season 5 of Next Level Chef, which means four chefs are within reach of the finale! For their challenge, the chefs must create a signature dish that they feel defines them, but there was a catch when it came to the protein.
After last week’s results, Darian was in the top-level kitchen with Gordon Ramsay. Gabrielle and Connor were in the middle level with Richard Blais, leaving Cole in the basement with Nyesha Arrington.
Darian held the final Time Token of the season, which he chose to use to add 10 seconds to his grab, rather than take 10 seconds away from one of his competitors.
He said, “I don’t know what the protein is going to be, so I want to make sure if I get something I don’t really want, I have that extra 10 seconds to think and build this dish, because this dish has to be legendary.” The winner of Next Level Cheftakes home $250,000 and wins a one-year mentorship from all three judges.
Here's our spoiler-filled recap of who went home on Next Level Chef tonight, and who made the finale?
Gabrielle Coniglio, 34
Palm Beach, FL
Professional Chef
Team Gordon
Cole Lawson, 31
Los Angeles, CA
Professional Chef
Team Gordon
Connor Caine, 30
Manhattan Beach, CA
Professional Chef
Team Nyesha
Darian Bryan, 34
Buffalo, NY
Professional Chef
Team Blais
The chefs were given 30 minutes to create a dish that defines them as a chef. A dish that demonstrates their legacy, that they would want to be remembered by. But there was a twist. The protein they picked was covered so it was a surprise.
The two best dishes secured their places in the finale; the bottom two had to enter the elimination challenge.
The first chef in the finale was Darian; he was joined by Cole.
What was the elimination challenge on Next Level Chef tonight, and who lost it? Gabrielle ConiglioPhoto credit: FOX
The two dishes that fell into the elimination cookoff were by Gabrielle and Connor. For their cook, they had 25 minutes to create a finale-worthy dish using a veal chop.
The chef that cooked her final dish in the Next Level Kitchen was Gabrielle, meaning Connor is going through to the finale.
“This has been an unreal experience and I feel as if I’ve defied all odds,” Gabrielle said. “I will forever eternally be grateful for you all.” Then she added, “Chef Ramsay, thank you so much. Thank you for seeing in me what I have so badly wanted to see in myself. Your fatherly presence in the kitchen is remarkable.”
Next Level Chef airs Thursday nights at 8 p.m. ET/PT on FOX. Streams next day on Hulu.
Related: Here’s What Gordon Ramsay’s Next Level Chef is Serving Up for Season 5
'80s Rockers Celebrate 40 Years of Beloved Anthem That Was Written in One Day
It's not every chart-topping song that has the ability to move listeners across generations, but the ones that do get even more powerful with time. Case in point: Crowded House's 1986 melancholy masterpiece, "Don't Dream It's Over."
Released on Crowded House's self-titled debut album, "Don't Dream It's Over" celebrates its 40th anniversary this year, but the bittersweet melody and emotional lyrics still hit just as hard as ever:
"Hey now, hey now, don't dream it's over / Hey now, hey now, when the world comes in / They come, they come to build a wall between us / We know they won't win"
A recent TikTok video celebrating the music milestone proved Crowded House frontman Neil Finn sounds just as amazing as ever singing the hit tune:
@primarywaveCelebrating the 40th anniversary of “Don’t Dream It’s Over” all year! #crowdedhouse #80s #dontdreamitsover
♬ original sound - Primary WaveFans couldn't get over the live clip.
"Still sounds great," wrote one commenter.
"Love Crowded House and this song in particular!! I saw them live in an intimate club and they were fantastic!!" declared a second person, with a third adding, "They are incredible live and still sound amazing!!!"
Neil Finn wrote 'Don't Dream It's Over' when he was feeling 'antisocial'As Finn told SPIN in 2024, “Don’t Dream It’s Over” was "pretty much written in a day."
"I wrote 'Don’t Dream It’s Over' on my brother’s piano," Finn explained.
"I was feeling a little bit antisocial that day; I wasn’t having a great day. For some reason, Tim [Finn] wasn’t there. Paul Hester was living there at the time, and he invited a few people over, but I just wasn’t in the mood to socialize," he continued. "I just remember going to the piano; I don’t know whether I was writing about them obliquely: 'They come to build a wall between us.' That seems like a harsh commentary on a bunch of visitors! But songs are often like that; you get a line that pops out for a seemingly innocent reason. And it takes on greater significance in the context of the song because of what’s around it."
"I was contemplating the end of things: relationships and the challenges that you face," Finn added. "It’s an exhortation to myself—and to anyone who’s going through that—to not think it’s the end, to keep on pushing, keep on believing. It’s a song of hope, I think."
Related: 1983 Soft Rock Hit That Became a Timeless Ode to Lost Love Is Based on a True Story
GOP Women Stir Debate During Katie Miller Podcast About Motherhood
Katie Miller recently hosted a motherhood roundtable of sorts on her self-titled Katie Miller Podcast, featuring Senators Katie Britt, Marsha Blackburn, and Ashley Moody, along with Congresswoman Ashley Hinson and former NBCSunday Night Football sideline reporter/Minnesota Senate hopeful Michele Tafoya
The episode, named ‘The Right Squad America Actually Needs,’ covered everything from being a woman on Capitol Hill to trad grandmas. And while this pod squad’s content wasn’t overtly controversial (that is, depending on who you ask), Miller recently faced a parenting backlash after posting pregnancy pics of herself on Instagram.
Of course, Katie isn’t just a conservative podcaster. She’s also the wife of Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy and Homeland Security, Stephen Miller. And while no one seemed to have an issue with the belly bump-baring photos, some critics weren’t fans of the caption: “The most feminist thing you can do is make babies.”
View this post on InstagramBut it looks like Katie put the comments aside for this podcast, sitting down with five powerful Washington, D.C. women to talk parenting. The conversation started with a question about where everyone stood on gentle parenting versus the old-school way of parenting. As you might expect, the old school style won out.
Ashley Hinson shared that she believes in “Tough love,” adding, “ I’m a boy mom, right? So, two boys, two teenage boys, which actually is the best training for serving in Congress is being a teenage boy mom because you really, you negotiate with unreasonable people all the time, which is what we do here.”
Hinson went on to joke, “And they smell bad. This place can smell bad from time to time.” But then (on a more serious note), continued, “And again, you have to hold firm, right? You have to stand for your principles. And I think so there’s a lot of synergy between being a mom, give something to a busy woman if you want it done. And that’s my approach to governing here in D.C.”
Miller moved the discussion to something she’s familiar with—the pressure of being a working mom within her conservative, traditional bubble, saying, “One of the criticisms I get a lot, especially as a younger mother, is that I choose to be a working mother while espousing views that you know women should have babies younger.” She continued, “And you know we talk a lot, especially among the Republican party, about the importance of family and family unit. How do you guys each square the circle of saying that I’m a working mom, but yet I’m telling other women that they should have babies as well?”
Hinson responded, “Women get asked the question, ' How are you going to do all of this with your kids?’, when men would never get asked that question. And at the door when I was out campaigning in my first race, I had a woman who actually said, “Oh, how dare you leave your children and go run for office.” And I actually said, “Well, it turns out they have a great father who is not their babysitter. He’s their father, and you just figure out how to get involved.”
Ashley Moody chimed in, “And I think it’s wonderful if you can commit that time and take time away from your work life and stay home. My mother stayed home with us for a very long time in our lives. I think it is amazing, and ther is a role for the mother that is so unique, so needed, and so necessary.
All of these political parents also seemed to understand the importance of being a role model. Blackburn explained, “Be a great example for your family, for your daughters, for your granddaughters, and other women. And show how you can purposefully and intentionally lead and have an impact on your community and your state and your country.” While Katie Britt added, “I certainly want to be that, um, kind of sort of model for my daughter, but I also want to be it for my son too. And I think it’s important for them to see women who are working to make it work.”
Ryan Lochte's Girlfriend Takes 'Ownership' of His Unrecognizable Look
Ryan Lochte is officially responding to the internet’s obsession with his dramatically different appearance—and his girlfriend is partially taking the blame.
After the Olympic swimmer recently announced he would be joining Missouri State University as an assistant swimming and diving coach on Monday, May 12, social media quickly became distracted by something else entirely.
With darker hair, tanned skin, and scruffy facial hair, hundreds of fans admitted they barely recognized the 41-year-old Olympian. Now, Lochte and girlfriend Molly Gillihan are leaning into those claims with another Instagram video, shared a few days later on Thursday, May 14.
View this post on Instagram“Baby, my phone is blowing up with everyone saying that nobody recognizes you,” Gillihan told him in the clip, which showed Lochte sitting on a couch scrolling his phone. He appeared genuinely confused by the reaction at first before realizing people were comparing his current appearance to photos from his Olympic prime over a decade ago.
“Oh, so they're, they're taking a picture of when I was working out every day, getting makeup put on me for photo shoots, but it's also from when you were in the Olympics when I was back in 2012 Olympics, where in 2026,” he said.
READ MORE: Ryan Lochte Looks Like a ‘Completely Different Person’ and the Internet Can’t Stop Talking About It
When Gillihan pointed out that nearly 14 years had passed, Lochte laughed off the comparisons. Still, she admitted she may have contributed slightly to the transformation.
“OK, but I do have to take ownership because I was dyeing my eyebrows the other day and you were like, I'm gonna throw some of this on my head,” she joked. Lochte, however, clearly wasn’t too bothered by the criticism. “They’re all clowns,” he said of online commenters.
The viral reaction comes during a major transition period for the swimmer, who recently revealed he may be “more passionate about coaching than competing” after decades in professional swimming.As for Lochte and Gillihan, they’ve been dating since mid-2025. Their relationship became public not long after Lochte’s split from estranged wife Kayla Rae Reid, who filed for divorce earlier that year after seven years of marriage.
1970 Rock Classic, Written in 10 Minutes, Became a No. 1 Hit
In 1970, Bee Gees proved that sometimes a great song can come together almost instantly.
"Lonely Days" was reportedly written in just 10 minutes by brothers Barry Gibb, Robin Gibb and Maurice Gibb after the group reunited following a bitter feud that temporarily split the band apart in 1969.
The song quickly became a major success, helping launch a new era for the Bee Gees and eventually becoming a No. 1 hit on the Cash Box chart while also reaching the Top 5 on the Billboard Hot 100.
According to American Songwriter, the brothers wrote "Lonely Days" during the same afternoon they penned another future classic, "How Can You Mend a Broken Heart."
The songwriting session took place in Barry Gibb's basement on Addison Road in London's Holland Park neighborhood shortly after the brothers reconciled. Following months of tension and uncertainty about the group's future, creativity suddenly began flowing again.
"'Lonely Days' is really how we felt about being apart," Barry Gibb said in an interview. "'How Can You Mend a Broken Heart' was how we felt about coming back together. So, while we weren't saying these things to each other, we were writing songs that said these things."
That emotional context can be heard throughout "Lonely Days," which balances melancholy verses with soaring harmonies and bursts of optimism.
"It was just a matter of working out the ideas, and the piano in 'Lonely Days,'" added Maurice Gibb. "The two tracks were cut that evening in a studio in Wardour Street."
The song also marked an important turning point for the Bee Gees commercially. Although the group had already enjoyed international success in the 1960s, "Lonely Days" became one of their first major hits after reuniting, helping reestablish them as a dominant force in pop music.
"In America, ['Lonely Days'] went to number one for us," said Maurice Gibb in a 1978 interview. "That was the biggest kick I ever had. After being separated for fifteen months or so and getting back together again and the first thing we wrote and recorded went to number one."
Its rich harmonies and dramatic arrangement hinted at the grander sound the Bee Gees would continue developing throughout the 1970s before eventually becoming disco icons later in the decade.
More than 50 years later, the song still holds special significance for Barry Gibb, now the sole surviving Bee Gee. In 2021, he revisited the track by recording a new version with Little Big Town for his album, Greenfields.
Today, "Lonely Days" remains a reminder that even after conflict and uncertainty, creative reunions can sometimes produce timeless music in a matter of minutes.
Related: 1977 Career-Defining Classic, Originally an Outlaw Country Anthem, Became a No. 1 Hit
Color Psychologist Says Wearing This Color Makes You Appear Instantly More Approachable
Getting dressed in the morning can feel like such a drag, even if you do yourself a favor and pick your clothes out the night before. But let's open your getting-ready playbook for a second. How do you even choose what to throw on before work or a social event? Do certain hues play a role in whether you pick them or not? If color analysis is not on your list, don't worry. You're not alone.
"Most people get dressed in the morning thinking about what they like or what fits—very few stop to consider what their color choices are communicating to those around them throughout the day," reports Michelle Lewis, a color psychology expert, certified color analyst, author and the founder of ColorAnalysis.com and The Color Institute.
However, Lewis warns that the people you meet and interact with throughout the day won't overlook your color choice—even if they're not consciously taking notes. In fact, color makes a significant first impression.
"Remember, color is processed by the brain before words," she states. "It's one of the first signals other people receive from you, and it shapes their perception instantly and often unconsciously. Understanding that gives you an enormous advantage: in job interviews, first dates, networking events, even everyday interactions."
Lewis loves helping people leverage color.
"When you know how to use color intentionally, you stop leaving those first impressions to chance or accidentally sabotaging your day’s intentions," she says.
So if you want color psychology to help you put your best foot forward before you even open your mouth to speak, Lewis shares the best color to wear that makes you seem instantly more approachable. She also includes a few alternatives in case the first color doesn't work with your palette (which is understandable once you find out what it is). Plus, she shares three colors that can achieve the opposite and make you appear "instantly unapproachable."
Related: These 3 Favorite Colors Are Often Linked to Emotional Intelligence, According to a Color Analyst
The Best Color To Wear for Approachability, Color Psychologist SaysFreshSplash/Getty Images
"Orange is the single most approachable color you can wear," Lewis tells Parade.
She says she's worked with clients who struggled with approachability at social events. Opting for orange was a game-changer.
"They went from standing alone to being swarmed by people wanting to connect," she reports. "Orange is warm, inviting and psychologically signals openness and friendliness in a way that few other colors can match. It carries the energy of a welcoming home—the kind of place where everyone feels comfortable walking through the door."
Orange can be bright, but it's not threatening or closed off.
"It radiates a natural sociability that draws people in almost instinctively," Lewis says. "When you wear it, you're essentially sending a signal that says, 'I'm safe. I'm warm, and I'm happy you're here.'"
Related: Color Psychologist Says if Your Favorite Color Is Pink, You Likely Have These 7 Traits
What Is the Psychology of Orange?Lewis describes orange as a "color that brings life, comfort and a welcoming feeling" into social settings.
"Orange is the color of warmth, friendliness, energy, fun, playfulness and abundance," she says. "It's a social color at its core, creating the feeling of comfort and familiarity."
She explains that, in color psychology, orange sits at the intersection of red's passion and yellow's optimism. It therefore has a distinctly approachable quality that neither red nor yellow can achieve on their own.
"It doesn't demand attention the way red does, and it doesn't carry yellow's sometimes frenetic energy," she points out. "It simply makes people feel good and at ease."
Related: Psychologist Says the Most ‘Magnetic’ People in a Room Actually Do These 9 Things
3 More Colors That Make You Appear Instantly Approachable1. GreenLewis notes that green signals safety, openness and regeneration.
"The same qualities that make nature feel restorative also make green wearers feel stabilized and easy to be around," she says. "It's a color that says, 'I'm grounded, and I'm not going anywhere,' which puts people at ease immediately."
2. BlueLewis shares that blue is one of the world's most trusted colors—it's no wonder wearing it makes you seem instantly more approachable.
"It communicates calm, clarity and reliability," she explains. "People feel like they know what they're getting with someone in blue and that predictability is deeply reassuring in a first encounter."
3. PurplePurple gives off open, curious vibes.
"It's the color of someone who is receptive, spiritually aware and genuinely interested in connection," Lewis reports. "Purple wearers tend to attract people who are looking for a meaningful conversation rather than small talk, making it particularly approachable for the right kind of interaction."
Related: Here's What Every Mood Ring Color Actually Means, According to a Color Psychology Expert
3 Colors That Make You Appear UnapproachableNow on the opposite end of the "approachability" spectrum...
1. BlackBlack can have different interpretations, but one is "unapproachable."
"Black can create an invisible wall between you and the people around you," Lewis states. "While it's sophisticated and powerful, it can also read as closed-off, serious or even intimidating, particularly in casual or social settings where people are looking for warmth and ease as an invitation to connect."
2. RedLewis describes red as a "complicated one."
"It commands attention, but attention isn't the same as approachability," she says.
The strong color signals intensity, dominance and high energy. These qualities have their place and can even be thrilling in the correct context. The problem?
"[Red] can also make people hesitate before walking up to you," she notes. "It's a color that says, 'I'm in charge' more than 'come talk to me.'"
3. GrayYou may be surprised to see gray here.
"Gray is psychologically neutral to the point of invisibility," Lewis explains. "It doesn't repel people, but it doesn't invite them either. It's the color equivalent of blending into the background."
"Blending" doesn't mean "approachable," though. In fact, it can cause you to get glossed over.
"In social settings where you want to be noticed and approached, gray can work against you simply by failing to send any signal at all," Lewis notes.
Final TakeawaysColor choice can make you look more approachable. Here's what to keep in mind when getting ready tomorrow:
- The brain processes color before words. So, color choice is one of the first things people notice about you. Leveraging this information and color can help you make more connections by appearing more approachable.
- Orange is a color that makes you look instantly more approachable. It's warm, welcoming and non-threatening. Blue, green and purple are also colors that make you seem approachable.
- Other colors also exude unapproachability. Red, black and gray can make you seem intense, closed off or invisible—not the goal in most social settings.
Up Next:
Related: 9 Workplace Habits That Make You 'Instantly Unlikable,' According to Etiquette Experts
Source:- Michelle Lewis is a color psychology expert, certified color analyst, author and the founder of ColorAnalysis.com and The Color Institute. She’s also the author of Color Secrets: Learning The One Universal Language We Were Never Taught.
This UNO x Vrbo Collab Is the Getaway Game Night Dreams Are Made Of
For so many of us, UNO wasn't just a card game, it was basically a childhood rite of passage. It was the game stuffed into backpacks before road trips, tossed into overnight bags for sleepovers, and inevitably pulled out during family game nights. Long before endless apps and screens took over, UNO was peak entertainment.
Sure, there are newer versions now, but classic UNO still hits differently. Which is exactly why this UNO x Vrbo collab feels so genius. They're taking all those warm fuzzy memories and leveling them all the way up with one-night stays in stylish destinations across the country for just $4 a night. Yes, really. That isn't a typo.
This summer, UNO is turning game night into a vacation with six different Vrbo getaways in cities across the U.S., and again, they're somehow only $4 a night. For select weekends, you can book either a fully decked-out UNO-themed stay or a more laid-back group getaway. For four bucks, it's kind of the ultimate nostalgic steal.
Related: Costco's 'Comfy' Packable Chair Has Everything You Need for Enjoying the Outdoors—Literally
Where Are the UNO x Vrbo Getaways Located?You've got two ways to do this. If you're going all in, the two "Wild Card" stays are the big, extra-fun options, with one in Los Angeles from May 29 to June 1 and one in Austin from June 19 to 22. These are luxe homes with that UNO-themed décor, game nights and even in-home dining.
Inside one of the UNO x Vrbo locations.Vrbo/Mattel
If you’d rather keep it more flexible, the four "Play It Your Way" stays run from July through August in Winter Park, Colo. (July 10–13), Palm Desert, Calif. (July 17–20), Panama City Beach, Fla. (July 24–27) and Atlanta, Ga. (Aug. 7–10). Those come with an UNO x Vrbo Welcome Kit plus perks like game rooms, pools or hot tubs (depending on the locale). No matter which route you take, it's a pretty amazing excuse for a $4 getaway.
How do you book it?Here's where things get a little tricky. Given that it's a special promo (and so darn cheap), it's a full first come, first served situation. Bookings begin on Vrbo.com/UNO at 1 pm ET/10 am PT on Friday, May 15 and they will go fast. Each location accommodates up to 10 guests max, so maybe get all of your pals to hover around their keyboards at the same time for a chance to score one of these coveted escapes.
Related: Aldi Is Selling a Pretty Washable Rug That Adds Boho Vibes to Any Outdoor Space
Amazon’s 'Comfy and Soft' 2-Piece Lounge Set Is Just $30, and It's a 'Great Travel Outfit'
Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.
A matching set is one of the easiest things to pack, wear, and repeat once warm weather hits, and right now, Amazon has the Tankaneo 2-Piece Knit Lounge Set on sale for as low as $30, down from $60. It comes in over 40 options, with the best deal on the purple-white stripe version. Though colors vary by style, the set is available in a cute heart print, a versatile solid color, and a fun striped option, with sizes ranging from extra small to 3XL.
The two-piece outfit includes an oversized V-neck knit top with three-quarter sleeves and matching high-waisted shorts. It’s made from 100% polyester and has a pull-on design, a loose fit, and an elastic drawstring waistband on the shorts for extra comfort. It’s also ranked as the eighth bestselling women’s shorts set on Amazon, with more than 600 five-star ratings.
Tankaneo 2-Piece Knit Lounge Set, From $30 (was $60) at Amazon Shop at AmazonThe shorts and loose-knit top make this set super easy for lounging at home, but it still looks coordinated enough for airport outfits, casual errands, vacation mornings, or a coffee run. The matching pieces also mean you don’t have to waste time figuring out what top goes with which shorts. And at just $30, it’s priced much lower than many boutique-style knit sets. Some shoppers even said they bought it after seeing similar sets for three times the price.
Countless shoppers have raved about its comfort and versatility. One person described it as “super comfy and soft,” while another said the set is “very breathable.” A third called it a “great travel outfit,” while another reviewer said it’s “absolutely adorable and perfect for summer.”
Related: Amazon’s 'Super Cute' $25 2-Piece Linen Lounge Set Is the 'Perfect Summer Outfit'
The striped versions offer a nautical feel, the solid colors are great for a simple look, and the heart-printed styles are more playful. Plus, since the top and shorts can be worn separately, you get more outfit options than with a one-piece romper or dress. The top could easily work with denim shorts, and the shorts could be paired with a plain tank or tee.
Shop More Deals- Lillusory 2-Piece Shorts Set, $15 (was $30) at Amazon
- Trendy Queen 2-Piece Oversized Top Set, From $25 (was $35) at Amazon
- Marzxin 2-Piece Ribbed Shorts Set, $24 (was $35) at Amazon
If you’ve been looking for the perfect summer outfit that you don’t have to worry about coordinating with the rest of your wardrobe, the Tankaneo 2-Piece Knit Lounge Set is worth grabbing. With over 40 styles available, you have plenty to choose from. Be sure to snag yours now while it’s still marked down this low on Amazon.
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.
1968 Classic Rock Hit That Invented Heavy Metal Became a Generation-Defining Anthem
If you've ever wondered where the term "heavy metal" came from, well, you're definitely not alone. The answer to that question, however, is more complicated than you might think (and not everyone agrees on it), but one thing we do know for sure is which hit song was the first to ever use the phrase...and it came out all the way back in 1968.
As Classic Rock reported, Steppenwolf's "Born to Be Wild" was actually the first track to ever include "heavy metal" in the lyrics; as such, it could even be considered the "first real metal track," in some ways:
"I like smoke and lightnin' / Heavy metal thunder / Racing with the wind / And the feeling that I'm under"
Granted, it's not as heavy as much of the metal that came in the years after "Born to Be Wild" was released, but it was still one of the hardest-rocking tunes around at the time...even though, as it turns out, the tune wasn't meant to be an anthem for biker gangs.
While "Born to Be Wild" is often associated with motorcycles, due to its inclusion in the iconic 1969 biker movie Easy Rider (starring Dennis Hopper and Peter Fonda), the lyrics were actually inspired by a car, as songwriter Mars Bonfire (born Dennis McCrohan) told Guitar Player.
“The biker thing was a big surprise to me,” Bonfire explained, noting that he'd never even been on a motorcycle when he wrote the song. “The truth is, I wrote ‘Born to Be Wild’ about my first car, a beat-up Ford Falcon. It’s not as glamorous as a fire-breathing two-wheeler, but c’mon. Nothing’s as cool as your first car.”
That famous "heavy metal thunder" was a reference to actual thunder, not the roar of a bike on the open road. Bonfire was driving his Falcon through the San Bernardino mountains and got caught in a rainstorm, which forced him to pull over.
"The sky was dark and lightning struck,” he said. "I remembered studying the periodic table of elements in school, and there was a category for heavy metals. The phrase ‘heavy metal thunder’ popped into my head. I had no idea how important those words would soon become.”
Bonfire wasn't having any luck selling the song to L.A. music publishers, so he passed it along to his brother, Jerry Edmonton, who was the drummer for Steppenwolf. Bonfire wasn't in the studio when the band recorded the song, and he was so surprised when her heard the song on the radio for the first time that he felt like he was "lost in a dream."
“The band brought it to life in ways I couldn’t imagine when I played it on my Telecaster," Bonfire continued. "Michael Monarch played brilliantly — I loved his distorted sound. And, of course, my singing couldn’t compare to John Kay. The reality of it didn’t quite hit me at first.”
'Born to Be Wild' became a cultural phenomenon thanks to 'Easy Rider'It wasn't until Bonfire saw the song featured in Easy Rider, however, that he really understood just how much of an impact "Born to Be Wild" had on listeners.
"When the film was over, I went to the men’s room, and a guy was singing the song at the urinal,” he said. “At that point, I thought, Okay, this thing has struck a nerve.”
Surprisingly, "Born to Be Wild" never made it all the way to #1 on the Billboard Hot 100, but it did peak at #2. In the years since, the song's pop culture status hasn't faded one bit; at this point, it's almost impossible to count how many movies, TV shows and commercials has used the tune.
Luckily, according to Bonfire, "most of the time" he's happy with the way his song's legacy has panned out.
“It’s always fun and exciting to hear it," he said, adding, "There’s a new Pampers commercial that uses it, which might not be so good image-wise. But on the whole, I’ve got no complaints.”
Related: 1984 Hit Ranked Among 'Best '80s Pop-Metal Songs' Revived This Glam Rock Band's Career
1999 Cult Classic Packed With Classic Rock Anthems Ranked Among the Best Rock Movies
Look, Almost Famous is almost a perfect movie. But Detroit Rock City hasNatasha Lyonne. And KISS. And some of the greatest rock anthems of all time shoved into one high-octane teen comedy about a group of kids trying to catch Gene Simmons and company live in Motor City. Ultimate Classic Rock gets it, as the authority on all things hard, soft, and heavy metal rock recently ranked the cult classic the best rock movie of 1999.
View this post on InstagramSet in 1978, when disco was queen, the film instead follows four rock-loving dudes — Hawk (EdwardFurlong), Lex (Giuseppe Andrews), Trip (James DeBello), and Jam (Sam Huntington) — on a mission to see their favorite band, KISS, in concert. Despite Simmons executive producing, the film — we have to say — was a total flop at the box office, but over time has found its people, thanks to its showcase of authentic band memorabilia, the 3,000-fan reenactment concert, and the absolutely killer soundtrack.
“The soundtrack features several KISS songs, including the titular tune, as well other hard rock classics, both in the original versions and as covers,” UCR writes. Key tracks off the album include Everclear’s cover of “The Boys Are Back in Town,” KISS’ own “Shout It Out Loud,” and Van Halen’s “Running With the Devil,” as well as hits from David Bowie, The Donnas, Pantera, and The Runaways.
Unlike the movie, the soundtrack did pretty well for itself, charting on the Billboard 200 and earning critical acclaim over the years. One of its tracks, “Beth,” described by American Songwriter as the “lush ballad that gave KISS their first pop hit” did even better.
“‘Beth’ found its way onto Destroyer to give [Peter] Criss a showcase, and the band snuck it on as the B-side to ‘Detroit Rock City,’ the third single released from the album,” AS writes. “But a funny thing happened: DJs locked onto ‘Beth’ and started playing it in favor of the A-side. KISS realized the opportunity and flipped the two songs in a rerelease, and it led to ‘Beth’ hitting No. 7 on the charts.”
So, we'll let Almost Famous (which, don't get us wrong, we absolutely love) have its "Tiny Dancer" moment. Because Detroit Rock City has Natasha. And Beth. And KISS. And honestly, that’s more than enough.
Related: 1968 Film About the Making of a Band’s Rock Masterpiece Ranked Among Best Rock Movies
Add Vintage Charm to Your Home With a Gorgeous Tiffany-Style Pendant Light, Now 40% Off
Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.
Parade and ShopHQ are both owned by the same parent company. Featured products are selected independently by the editorial team at Parade.
New lighting can be just the thing to turn a room around, and there’s no better time than spring to make a switch. Vintage-inspired lighting, especially lamps and shades that lean into the whimsical cottagecore trend, can give a room a charming aesthetic. Take, for example, this stunning, stained glass Tiffany-Style Lighting Halston Adjustable Height Amber Dome Pendant. It’s on sale for $140 on ShopHQ, an awesome 40% markdown from its original $235 price. Plus, you can get it with $5 shipping for a limited time when you use code FREERETURN.
Tiffany-Style Lighting Halston Adjustable Height Amber Dome Pendant, $140 (was $235) at ShopHQThis gorgeous pendant light has a handcrafted stained-glass dome topped with a fleur de lis-inspired pattern. It casts a soft and cozy glow in any room thanks to its intricately cut amber, brown, yellow, and ivory glass pieces. The fixture is paired with a black-painted metal canopy and includes a 65-inch adjustable cord that allows you to customize the hanging height from 9 inches up to 72.5 inches, depending on your space.
Use Code FREERETURN on Shop HQ to unlock $5 off shipping for a limited time.The pendant is 10 inches long and 10 inches wide, while the shade is about 6.5 inches tall. The canopy measures 4.75 inches long by one inch tall. Because the light is adjustable and doesn’t take up too much space, it makes it easy to place in nearly any room. The light does have to be in rooms inside your home, though. It’s only designed for indoor use.
The warm stained-glass color palette is suited best for kitchens, breakfast nooks, dining areas and entryways, but you can also place it in living rooms, bedrooms, and reading nooks. Its adjustable hanging length makes it versatile for lower and higher ceilings throughout your home. From an interior design standpoint, the warm amber tones go really well with wood furniture, vintage-inspired decor, brass accents, and other earthy textures that enhance the pendant’s timeless look.
Shop More Deals- Tiffany-Style Lighting 5.75" Multi-Colored Book Stack Stained Glass Accent Lamp, $130 (was $215) at ShopHQ
- Tiffany-Style Lighting 23.5" Hand Blown Glass 3 Calla Lily Uplight Accent Lamp, $120 (was $200) at ShopHQ
- Tiffany-Style Lighting 61" Meg Brushed Gold Metal Candlestick Floor Lamp with Rattan Shades, $150 (was $250) at ShopHQ
This Tiffany-Style Lighting Dome Pendant is the perfect way to liven up your lighting for spring. It would also make a special gift for a loved one. Grab one while it’s just $140!
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.
Britney Spears’ Handsome Son Jayden Federline, 19, Hits the Red Carpet for the First Time in 10 Years
Jayden James Federline, the younger son of Britney Spears and Kevin Federline, is back on the red carpet.
Jayden, 19, sported a bright smile while he attended the Dior 2027 Cruise collection fashion show at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) on May 13, 2026. Looking handsome in a green jacket and jeans, the rising star whipped off his sunglasses to smile for the cameras.
Photo by PATRICK T. FALLON on Getty Images
Jayden was also joined by a mystery lady in front of the cameras for the big event.
Photo by Monica Schipper on Getty Images
Jayden is Forging a Music CareerJayden's father, Kevin Federline, shared in his 2025 memoir You Thought You Knew that Jayden had relocated to Los Angeles to pursue a music career.
"Jayden has already returned to L.A., chasing his music dreams,” Kevin wrote, E! Online shared. Calling his son a "firecracker" who's "brimming with creative energy," Federline shared that Jayden and his older brother, Sean Preston, make him incredibly proud.
"Watching both of them grow into themselves has filled me with pride," he wrote. "We’ve done everything we could to prepare them for life, and I know they’re ready."
Britney Spears' Recent Legal TroubleSpears was arrested for DUI on March 4. According to arrest records from the Ventura Sheriff's Office acquired by PEOPLE, Spears was placed under arrest and released early in the morning on Thursday, March 5.
According to the California Highway Patrol, Spears was "driving erratically at a high rate of speed ... showed signs of impairment and submitted to a series of field sobriety tests" and "was subsequently arrested for a violation of California Vehicle Code section 23152(g), driving under the influence of a combination of drugs and alcohol." She was subsequently booked in Ventura County Main Jail.
She went on to check into rehab in Maine, where she stayed for 5 weeks.
While Spears has gone through periods of estrangement with her sons, it sounds like the trio is on good terms at the moment. They even headed out for a yachting trip together on the high seas in late March after her arrest.
View this post on InstagramLuke Bryan Issues Blunt Response to Fan's Criticism Over 'Clearly AI' Single
Country cowboy and American Idol judge Luke Bryan just shut down a bold accusation about his latest single, suggesting listeners should quit taking things so seriously after one implied the lyrics were written by AI.
The video, originally uploaded by an Instagram user who goes by the username jiujitsuweasel, was reposted on the social media platform by the Country Chord account. The creator spoke directly to into the camera, asking, “Luke Bryan, what the f--k is going on with your new song?” before playing a clip “for the people who haven’t heard it.”
The new track, called “Fish Hunt Golf Drink,” details what life would be like “if it wasn’t for the tax man” and all of life’s responsibilities.
“Every day would go: wake up, coffee, camo, climb tree,” the chorus goes. “Wet line, 18, fish, hunt, golf, drink all fall, all spring, all summer long, I’ll be living it up and living it on.”
The Instagrammer, who is obviously not a fan of the tune, went on to complain about the way the “clearly AI song” was bound to “pop off” on the charts, venting, “It literally just sounds like someone went to Google Gemini and said, ‘Make country song but make it sound like a 4-year-old…wrote it.'"
"No creativity in today and age [sic]," he added. "Everyone is so fried. We’re cooked, we’re done.”
According to the screenshot posted by the country-focused platform, Bryan clapped back in the comment section of the critical clip, writing, “It’s called a fun song. Just listen and have fun."
He added a piece of advice for the chronically online, concluding with, "Go get on a boat quit scrolling on your phone all day.”
While many fans agreed that the track was not an example of high-caliber songwriting, they were quick to agree that it wasn't that deep.
"It sounds like every Luke Bryan song ever," one replied. "Im not gonna go out of my way to listen to it but it’s just inoffensive fun music."
"I mean Luke Bryan is one of the originators of Bro-Country," another noted. "That whole genre exists in part because of him. I don’t think he intended it to be a deeply written philosophical song. More like a shotgun a beer while you’re already hammered type of song."
"Change the channel," they added, while someone else wondered, "why do people get so pressed over a fun song?"
"Song is exactly what Luke said, just about having fun," a fourth agreed. "the tiktoker might not be wrong but neither is Luke."
Related: Luke Bryan Warms Hearts With Impromptu Cover of '80s Country Hit
'Law & Order: SVU' Returns for Season 28 — With Possibly More Stabler
Another year, another season of Law & Order: SVU! The series starring Mariska Hargitay and Ice-T has been a staple of NBC for over a quarter of a century, making it the network's longest-running show. And, with the cancellation of the Organized Crime spinoff, does this mean we could see more Benson and Stabler (Christopher Meloni) in our lives?
Here's everything to know about Law & Order: SVU Season 28, including possible release window, cast and how to watch.
NBCUniversal
Yes! NBC has renewed Law & Order: Special Victims Unit for a 28th season, which will air this fall.
Related: Mariska Hargitay Reveals When She'll Retire from Law & Order: SVU
When is the Law & Order: SVU Season 28 release date?A formal premiere date has not been announced for SVU Season 28. However, given the window it usually airs, we could expect the season to kick off at some point in late September 2026.
How to watch Law & Order: SVUYou can tune in to watch Law & Order: SVU Season 27 live on NBC on Thursdays at 9 p.m. ET or stream it on Peacock.
How to stream Law & Order: SVU Season 28You can stream Law & Order: SVU Season 27 on Peacock.
Related: Every Law & Order: SVU ADA, Ranked
Who is in the Law & Order: SVU Season 28 cast?Any SVU fan—heck, even casual viewers—will know that the show's cast can be quite the revolving door. That said, here's who to expect to see in the Season 28 cast of series regulars:
Mariska Hargitay as Olivia Benson Mariska Hargitay as Olivia Benson in "Law & Order: SVU" Season 27NBCUniversal
Related: What Will Mariska Hargitay Do After Law & Order: SVU Ends? Here Are 10 Ideas
Ice-T as Odafin 'Fin' Tutuola Ice-T as Fin Tutuola in "Law & Order: SVU" Season 27NBCUniversal
Kelli Giddish as Amanda Rollins Kelli Giddish as Amanda Rollins on "Law & Order: SVU" Season 27NBCUniversal
Related: Kelli Giddish Reveals What She Missed Most About the Law & Order: SVU Set
Peter Scanavino as Dominick 'Sonny' Carisi Peter Scanavino as ADA Dominick "Sonny" Carisi Jr. in "Law & Order: SVU" Season 27NBCUniversal
Aimé Donna Kelly as Renee CurryNBCUniversal
Related: Aimé Donna Kelly on What Captain Curry's Arrival Really Means for the Squad on SVU
Corey Cott as Jake Griffin Corey Cott as Jake Griffin in "Law & Order: SVU" Season 27NBCUniversal
Kevin Kane as Terry Bruno Kevin Kane as Terry Bruno in "Law & Order: SVU" Season 27NBCUniversal
Norma Dumezweni as Kathryn Tynan Norma Dumezweni as Kathryn Tynan in "Law & Order: SVU" Season 27NBCUniversal
Chris Meloni as Elliot StablerRelated: 50 Best Law & Order: SVU Guest Stars, Ranked
Will Mariska Hargitay be in SVU Season 28? Mariska Hargitay as Olivia Benson in "Law & Order: SVU" Season 27NBCUniversal
Of course she will, and with bells on! She gushed to NBC Insider, "I love my job. I love going to work every day. I love the community that I'm in. I love my cast, my crew, and I love the intimacy of it all and the fact that we work in a culture that says, 'Let's do the work, let's have a fun time, and best idea wins.' It is such a team. It is such an incredible team, and we rely so much on each other. We're a unit. It's so sacred to me."
Related: Why Mariska Hargitay Was Almost Fired From Law & Order: SVU
Will Elliot be in Season 28 of SVU? Chris Meloni in "Law & Order: SVU"NBCUniversal
Most likely! Stabler has made frequent guest appearances in SVU since leaving the series to star on the spinoff Law & Order: Organized Crime. However, with the show's cancellation in May 2026, it's very possible we'll see more cameos from Meloni in Season 28.
Related: Zaddy Warbucks! Christopher Meloni's Net Worth in 2026
Do Benson and Stabler get together? Mariska Hargitay as Olivia Benson and Chris Meloni as Elliot Stabler in "Law & Order: Organized Crime"Peter Kramer/NBCUniversal
Will they or won't they?! So far, #Bensler haven't, but photos from the set of Season 27 hint at them possibly getting more affectionate than we're used to seeing them.
Meloni told TV Insider in April 2025, "I think we and the writers are trying to find the way, a satisfying way home. We just don't know what that home is ... There could be a whole new spinoff on unpacking that. I think it's wrapped up in how he's wired, how he's built, his Catholicism, the commitments he's made and promises and complicated."
Related: Mariska Hargitay Explains 'Last Minute' Decision to Block Bensler's Kiss on SVU
Is Ice-T leaving SVU?Oh, Hell no.
Ice-T addressed retirement rumors in 2024, writing on Instagram at the time, "RETIRE??? I'm lucky enough to Act and do Music…. As an Artist, those are jobs you simply NEVER want to stop doing.. Ever 💎."
View this post on InstagramRelated: Ice-T's Net Worth and How Much He's Made From Law & Order: SVU
Who is leaving Law & Order SVU?As of this article's publication, there's no news of any main cast members leaving Law & Order SVU for Season 28. The Season 27 premiere already saw Velasco (Octavio Pisano) and Silva (Juliana Aidén Martinez) leaving the series.
How many seasons have there been of Law & Order: SVU?So far, SVU has produced 27 full seasons.
Related: The 26 Best ‘Law & Order: SVU’ Guest Stars — From Robin Williams to Snoop
Is there a Law & Order: SVU Season 28 trailer?Check back closer to the premiere of Law & Order: SVU Season 28 for a first look at the new season!
Related: Is Your Favorite Show Coming Back or Canceled? See Our Fall TV 2026–2027 Guide
United Reveals First-of-Its-Kind Flight to Japan's Winter Wonderland—and Skiers Won't Be Able to Resist
United Airlines is launching a brand-new nonstop route to one of Japan's most magical winter destinations. The airline has announced that it plans to launch the first-ever nonstop service between the mainland United States and Sapporo, the largest city on Japan's northern island of Hokkaido.
Beginning on December 11, 2026, United will operate three weekly flights between San Francisco International Airport and New Chitose Airport (CTS), near Sapporo, aboard a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner. The seasonal route is expected to run through late March 2027, pending final government approval.
The announcement marks a major milestone for travelers heading to northern Japan, especially skiers and snowboarders who have long dreamed of easier access to Hokkaido's world-famous powder snow.
Until now, travelers flying from the continental U.S. to Sapporo had to connect through Tokyo or other Asian hubs before continuing north. United's new route eliminates that extra step entirely, creating a direct link to one of Japan's top winter tourism regions.
"Whether customers are dreaming of skiing in Sapporo, planning a business trip to Tokyo with some exploration added in, or an even bigger adventure across Asia, United gives travelers more ways to get there than any U.S. airline," Patrick Quayle, Senior Vice President of Network Planning and Global Alliances of United Airlines, said in a press release. "Our new nonstop service from San Francisco to Sapporo makes it easier to vacation in one of Japan's most unique destinations."
Sapporo is best known internationally for the annual Sapporo Snow Festival, which draws millions of visitors each year with its elaborate snow and ice sculptures. The city also serves as a gateway to Hokkaido's legendary ski areas, including Niseko, Furano, Rusutsu, and Kiroro—destinations famous for deep, dry powder that consistently ranks among the best skiing conditions in the world.
United's new service is also expected to benefit travelers across the U.S. thanks to the airline's extensive San Francisco hub. According to the airline, nearly 80 U.S. cities will gain one-stop access to Sapporo through convenient connections in California. The route will also become United's shortest "true" transpacific flight from the mainland U.S., highlighting the growing demand for tourism to northern Japan.
Related: How to Visit the Viral Monkey, Punch, in Japan's Ichikawa City Zoo
United is not the only airline pursuing the opportunity. Air Canada recently announced plans for seasonal nonstop service between Vancouver and Sapporo this winter as competition heats up for travelers eager to reach Hokkaido's ski resorts. However, United's launch is scheduled to begin several days earlier, making it the first airline to operate nonstop service to Sapporo from North America.
Industry experts say the route reflects the booming popularity of Japan travel among Americans, especially travelers looking beyond Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka for more nature-focused and seasonal experiences.
For winter-sports gurus, the appeal is obvious: Getting to Japan's snow country just became dramatically easier.
Former 'Laguna Beach' Star Welcomes New Baby
Fresh off the heels of The Reunion: Laguna Beach tour, actor and reality star Stephen Colletti, 39, is officially a dad! Colletti and his wife, NASCAR reporter Alex Weaver, 32, just announced the arrival of their first baby together and shared his sweet baby name.
Colletti and Weaver announced they were expecting their first baby together back in January 2026. They shared the news via Instagram with black-and-white photos of her baby bump. The couple married in October 2025.
Photo by Axelle/Bauer-Griffin on Getty Images
The shared Instagram announcement includes a teaser black-and-white photo of Baby Colletti holding onto mom and dad's hands and is simply captioned with his full name: "Rhodes August Colletti 🤍"
Proud dad Colletti jumped right into to the comments with a bunch of excited emojis, "👶🏻👸🏼😊."
More responses are piling up in the comments too:
- Laguna Beach co-stars Lauren Conrad, Lo Bosworth Natale, and Talan Torriero were quick to leave "Likes" on the announcement.
- Laguna Beach co-star Dieter Schmitz wrote: "🥰Congrats you two!!!!!! Can’t wait to meet little Rhodes!!!!"
- James Lafferty, Colletti's co-creator on their Netflix show Everyone Is Doing Great wrote: "That’s one lucky little human. Congratulations you two. Best news ever ❤️❤️❤️"
- Alexandra Park, an actor in Everyone Is Doing Great and wife to Lafferty, said: "The world is so ready for you Rhodes August !!! Love you 3 🥹🩵🫶🏼 🫶🏼🌙♥️🩵🌙🫶🏼"
Still waiting to see what Kristin Cavallari has to say!
Related: ‘Laguna Beach’ Cast Reunites 20 Years Later: Where Are They Now?
Check out the Instagram baby announcement from Colletti and Weaver:
View this post on InstagramBig congratulations to the new mom and dad!