Parade

If you’ve ever spent an entire travel day stuck on tight layovers, sprinting between European airport gates just to reach a Mediterranean island or coastal hideaway, your vacation planning is about to get a massive upgrade.

In the largest international network expansion in its history, United Airlines announced it’s launching nonstop service to 10 new international cities across Europe and Asia for 2027.

Even better for travelers looking to avoid the usual crowded capital hubs, eight of these destinations are routes no other U.S. airline serves nonstop, connecting American flyers directly to seaside escapes, historic old towns, and island retreats starting as early as March 2027.

Related: United is Turning Economy Seats Into a Bed

View this post on Instagram Sun-Drenched Mediterranean Islands and Coastal Spain

For travelers dreaming of salt air, fresh seafood, and warm water, United’s new lineup unlocks some of Southern Europe’s most iconic coastal playgrounds without a single connection.

Taking off from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), flyers will be able to touch down directly in Ibiza, Spain, known for its whitewashed villages, cliffside coves, and world-class beach clubs, as well as Valencia, Spain’s vibrant paella capital lined with futuristic architecture and wide Mediterranean beaches.

Italian island escapes are also getting a major boost with new direct flights from Newark into Olbia on Sardinia’s Costa Smeralda—home to dramatic granite peaks and superyacht-filled harbors—and Catania, Sicily, the historic gateway to Mount Etna, Baroque piazzas, and incredible Sicilian street food.

Related: United Reveals First-of-Its-Kind Flight to Japan’s Winter Wonderland

French Harbors, Fairytale Castles, and Alpine Lakes

If your travel style leans toward historic architecture, sidewalk cafés, and scenic mountain views, the new schedule opens up direct gateways across Western and Central Europe.

From Newark, travelers can fly direct to Marseille, France, the sun-soaked port city serving as the front door to the lavender fields and rosé vineyards of Provence, or explore Luxembourg City, famous for its cliffside fortifications and fairytale gorges. United is also adding the first-ever U.S. nonstop to Ljubljana, Slovenia, putting travelers minutes from storybook bridges and the emerald waters of Lake Bled.

Out of Washington Dulles (IAD), a new daily route will land directly in Toulouse, France, the charming “Pink City” in the heart of southwest France known for its terra-cotta brick buildings and rich culinary heritage.

Related: United Airlines Just Made Reaching This Historic Spanish Landmark Much Easier

Subtropical Island Sanctuaries in the Atlantic and Pacific

For true island lovers, the expansion introduces direct flights to two breathtaking archipelagos.

From Newark, United will fly to Terceira in Portugal’s Azores, a lush volcanic wonderland filled with natural ocean swimming pools, green calderas, and pastel-colored historic towns.

On the West Coast, travelers flying out of San Francisco (SFO) will get direct access to Okinawa, Japan—a subtropical paradise celebrated for its crystal-clear dive sites, coral reefs, distinct Ryukyu culture, and slower-paced island lifestyle.

Related: New Nonstop Flight Connecting Newark to Underrated Caribbean Island

Smarter Flying on the New ‘Born to Explore’ Aircraft

Many of these new European routes—including flights to Ibiza, Marseille, Toulouse, Valencia, and Luxembourg—will be flown on United’s brand-new Airbus A321XLR aircraft.

Designed specifically for long-haul routes into boutique destinations, the single-aisle plane is outfitted with lie-flat United Polaris suites with privacy doors, free Starlink high-speed Wi-Fi, and a new Economy Plus seating option that leaves middle seats open for extra elbow room and shared console space.

Beyond the 10 brand-new cities, United is also adding new direct links between Los Angeles and Osaka, Japan; Washington, D.C. and Milan, Italy; and Denver to Paris, with tickets for the 2027 season officially on sale now.

Related: I Toured JetBlue’s New BlueHouse Lounge at Boston Logan—Here’s a Look Inside the Cozy, Locally Inspired Space

When Dolly Parton stepped up to the microphone alongside Kenny Rogers to record 1983’s “Islands in the Stream,” she did her close friend a massive favor. Two years later, it was time to collect.

Looking for the perfect duet partner for her 1985 album’s title track, “Real Love,” Parton called in her payback. Rogers readily agreed to lend his vocals.

The song leaned headfirst into the endless tabloid rumors surrounding their friendly chemistry and undeniable connection. The tease and a great song steered the track straight to the top of the Billboard Country Charts, cementing one of the most beloved vocal partnerships in music history.

According to American Songwriter, the iconic duo topped the country charts 41 years ago, on August 24, 1985, with “Real Love.” The song enjoyed a lengthy 20-week run.

Parade Daily🎬 SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬

The song leaned heavily into the romance rumors that surrounded Rogers and Parton after the success of 1983’s “Islands in the Stream” and their long, close friendship. That duet, and their playful on-stage chemistry, fueled speculation that Rogers and Parton were romantically involved.

However, the two were simply great friends who knew their ode to romance wouldn’t land with listeners unless they brought their natural, flirtatious spark to the stage and played right into the speculation. So, they leaned headfirst into the public rumor mill, treating their undeniable off-screen connection as the ultimate tool to give fans exactly what they wanted.

RELATED: Dolly Parton’s 58-Year Marriage: The Secret Life She Shared With Carl Dean

While many casual listeners may have thought there was real romantic chemistry between Parton and Rogers, each was happily married to their respective partners, Carl Dean and Marianne Gordon. Their legendary spark grew from a genuine, decades-long friendship that let them play up the rumors without ever blurring the lines in their real lives.

“Real Love” was written by David Malloy, Richard “Spady” Brannon, and Randy McCormick. Although the song hit the top of the country music charts, it didn’t reach the heights of their previous duet, “Islands in the Stream.” It peaked at No. 91 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 13 on the publication’s Adult Contemporary Chart.

RELATED: Dolly Parton Opens Up About the 1976 Song She Wrote to Fight Back Against the Tabloids

Parton and Rogers hit the road for a joint nine-city U.S. tour in February 1985. The shows were recorded for an HBO concert special, Real Love, and the live footage served as the official music video for the hit single.

Of the chatter surrounding their friendship, Parton joked to PEOPLE Magazine, “We never did go there. There was always so much other stuff going for us. So much love and friendship, we were so compatible,” she admitted.

RELATED: Dolly Parton Shares Huge News About Her Next Chapter—and It All Starts on a Very Special Day

“Kenny’s friendship means more to me than our hit records. Actually, we’re kind of soul mates,” reported Taste of Country per CMT. “He’s from Texas, and I’m from Tennessee. There’s an old famous country song, ‘T for Texas, T for Tennessee.’ We always sang that to each other. I love his singing. I love his voice. I never tire of hearing him sing.”

Kenny Rogers died on March 20, 2020, at the age of 81. Dolly Parton passed at age 80, on August 25, 2026.

Related: In 1983, Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton Hit No. 1 With an Iconic Country Song Written by Disco Legends

The news of Dolly Parton’s death has left fans around the world struggling to put their feelings into words.

Parton died Aug. 25 at age 80 after a brief battle with cancer, her representatives confirmed. She died at Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center in Nashville, surrounded by loved ones.

The news came as a shock to many fans, particularly because Parton had remained so active and had spoken publicly about her plans for the future just days earlier.

Now, longtime fans are turning to social media to remember the country music icon, not simply for her extraordinary career, but for the kindness, humor and generosity that made her feel almost universally beloved.

Dolly Parton Fans React to Her Death

On Reddit, fans quickly began sharing their grief after news of Parton’s death broke.

One fan summed up the sentiment with the post’s title: “RIP Dolly, there will never be another like you.”

“This is the lowest point of 2026 for me,” another fan said.

“You were smart, brave, inspirational, open-minded, visionary, and kind,” another shared, adding: “We will always love you.”

“Thought she’d live into her 100s,” one fan admitted, while another said: “I had hoped she would live forever.”

Others were simply in disbelief, thinking the death announcement was some kind of hoax. “I saw the video from her nephew and kept checking MSN hoping she’d somehow been hacked,” said another Redditor. “Wouldn’t explain the video even if the page had been hacked, thinking about it, but I just couldn’t believe it.”

“Please tell me it’s a hoax!” another agreed. “I’m going to be in deep denial for a long time!”

Dolly Parton’s Death Has Prompted Tributes From Celebrities, Too

Those reactions of shock, sadness and disbelief are being echoed among fans on Instagram, X and TikTok, too. Plus, tributes from Reba McEntire, Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, Paul McCartney, Cyndi Lauper and many others have poured in since Parton’s passing.

Here are some of the most memorable tributes so far:

• The Coldstream Guards played “9 to 5” at Buckingham Palace. During the Changing of the Guard on Aug. 26, the Band of the Coldstream Guards performed an instrumental version of Parton’s 1980 hit as tourists gathered outside the palace. The Royal Family also acknowledged Parton’s impact, particularly through her Imagination Library.
• Taylor Swift called Parton’s death almost impossible to comprehend. Swift shared an emotional tribute describing Parton’s legacy as everlasting and reflecting on the profound influence she had on generations of artists.
• Lily Tomlin remembered her longtime friend and 9 to 5 co-star. Tomlin shared a vintage photo of herself with Parton and Jane Fonda, calling Parton the “Great Harmonizer of Humanity” and remembering her as an exceptionally authentic and compassionate person.
• Reba McEntire shared a deeply personal goodbye. The country star remembered Parton’s enormous heart and infectious spirit, ending her tribute by promising to always remember their last conversation.
• Jack White brought back “Jolene.” The rocker revived his famous White Stripes version of Parton’s classic during a concert, performing the song live for the first time in years as a tribute to the woman who wrote it.
• Paul McCartney looked back at meeting Parton decades ago. McCartney shared a personal remembrance of the country legend, joining the enormous group of musicians and entertainers reflecting on her influence and generosity following her death. 

Dolly Parton’s Funeral Will Be Private

Despite Parton’s enormous public life, her family has asked for her final farewell to remain intimate.

A small, private funeral service for immediate family will be held in Nashville, according to her family. There will not be a public funeral at this time.

Parton will be buried beside her husband, Carl Dean, at Woodlawn Memorial Park and Mausoleum. Her nephew Bryan Seaver said she had also made a personal request for her burial: to be laid to rest in a “beautiful bed of plush cotton.”

The family has asked that, instead of flowers, fans who want to honor Parton consider donating to the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, the literacy organization that became one of the most important parts of her philanthropic legacy.

Other Celebrities Who Died in 2026

Dolly Parton joins a long list of beloved entertainers and cultural figures who have died in 2026. Among the notable losses this year are:

• Bob Weir — Jan. 10, 2026
• Catherine O’Hara — Jan. 30, 2026
• James Van Der Beek — Feb. 11, 2026
• Robert Duvall — Feb. 16, 2026
• Jesse Jackson — Feb. 17, 2026
• Eric Dane — Feb. 19, 2026
• Sam Neill — March 3, 2026
• Chuck Norris — March 4, 2026
• Clive Davis — June 2026
• Bonnie Tyler — July 2026
• Hayden Panettiere — Aug. 16, 2026
• Michael Wright — Aug. 19, 2026

RELATED: Dolly Parton Once Explained Why She Believed She’d See Her Loved Ones Again

Jelly Roll had viewers reaching for the tissues Tuesday when he paid a heartfelt tribute to Dolly Parton on Jimmy Kimmel Live—before sending the monologue completely off the rails with a meth-smoking raccoon.

The country star, who guest-hosted the late-night show, remembered Parton, who died at age 80 on Aug. 25, as a Tennessee icon who inspired his music, songwriting and commitment to helping others. But after calling her “the last American that everyone liked,” Jelly Roll took inspiration from one of Parton’s most famous pieces of advice and promised to put a smile on viewers’ faces. His method? The second annual Jelly Awards, capped by an appearance from “Chewy the Meth Raccoon.”

“We lost a legend today, the great Dolly Parton. She was such an inspiration to so many, myself included. We’re both from Tennessee, and she meant a lot to my family,” Jelly Roll said. “We used to sit around the kitchen table and listen to her music together as a family. I’ll never forget it. I learned so much from Dolly over the years about songwriting, how to handle this crazy business, and how to support your community. So, I want to send my love to East Tennessee and Sevier County right now and representing her.”

He added, “We love you, Dolly, and we miss you. She was infinitely talented. She was relentlessly funny and adored by all. She might be the last American that everyone liked. We will miss her dearly. Rest in peace, Dolly. We will always love you.”

Jelly Roll then wanted to honor Parton in a way he thought she’d want to be remembered. “I love this quote, y’all. Dolly once said, ‘If you see someone without a smile today, give them yours.’ So, I’m going to do as Dolly did and try to put a smile on your face right now with something extremely stupid. Is that okay?”

That’s when he launched into the second annual Jelly Awards where he saved the most bizarre prize for last, presenting the Jelly Award for “Party Animal of the Year” to a raccoon named Chewy that was caught during a traffic stop holding a pipe used to smoke crystal meth.

After learning that the pet allegedly grabbed another pipe when officers took the first one away, Jelly Roll dubbed Chewy an “emotional support meth raccoon” and introduced him to the audience in person. The appearance ended with Jelly Roll telling the raccoon, “Never stop being you, little guy.”

In 1949, Bob Cowsill was born into a family that would eventually become so famous for making music together that it helped inspire one of television’s most recognizable fictional families.

The singer, guitarist and founding member of The Cowsills turns 77 on Aug. 26, 2026, more than six decades after he and his siblings began the musical journey that produced hits including “The Rain, the Park & Other Things,” “Indian Lake” and “Hair.”

Long before The Partridge Family put a singing mother and her musical children on a psychedelic bus, there were the Cowsills, the real-life family band whose success helped inspire the ABC sitcom.

And Bob was there almost from the very beginning.

How Bob Cowsill and His Family Became ’60s Pop Stars

The Cowsills’ story began with brothers Bob and Bill Cowsill, who taught themselves to play guitar while their father, William “Bud” Cowsill, was serving in the U.S. Navy. Barry and John eventually joined them, and the boys performed everywhere from church and school dances to clubs around their hometown of Newport, R.I.

“The family angle just evolved,” Bob once recalled of the band’s beginnings.

Bob remembered the lineup expanding piece by piece, beginning with Bill and himself before Barry and John joined them. Their mother Barbara eventually became part of the act, followed by Paul and young Susan.

“We weren’t famous or anything but we were young and we were related and we were quite good,” Bob recalled of an early appearance on Today that helped move their career forward.

After some early recordings failed to take off, The Cowsills signed with MGM Records and broke through in a huge way with 1967’s “The Rain, the Park & Other Things.” With Bill on lead vocals, the song climbed all the way to No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100.

More hits followed. “Indian Lake” reached the Top 10 in 1968, while their exuberant recording of “Hair,” from the Broadway musical of the same name, became another No. 2 hit in 1969.

For a time, the Cowsills were everywhere. Between 1968 and 1972, the band averaged about 200 performance dates a year, while also appearing on programs including The Ed Sullivan Show, The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, American Bandstand and The Johnny Cash Show.

The Cowsills Were the Real-Life Inspiration for ‘The Partridge Family’

The family’s combination of pop hits, sibling harmonies and a mother performing alongside her children eventually attracted Hollywood’s attention.

The Cowsills were approached about starring in a television series based around their family, but there was a catch: The producers wanted an actress to portray the mother instead of Barbara Cowsill.

The family passed.

The concept, however, didn’t disappear.

Screen Gems went forward with The Partridge Family, starring Shirley Jones as widowed mother Shirley Partridge and her real-life stepson David Cassidy as eldest son Keith. The ABC sitcom, which premiered in 1970, was loosely based on the Cowsills and ran for four seasons.

Years later, Bob, Paul, John and Susan reunited for a 2004 benefit concert where they finally met Jones. According to the Cowsills’ history, the actress introduced the family that night and called them “the real thing.”

The connection between the two musical families even went deeper than television. Tony Romeo, who wrote The Partridge Family’s No. 1 smash “I Think I Love You,” had previously written The Cowsills’ 1968 Top 10 hit “Indian Lake.”

Bob Cowsill Shared His Birthday With His Twin Brother Dick

Aug. 26 was actually a double birthday in the Cowsill family.

Bob was born alongside his fraternal twin brother Richard “Dick” Cowsill, although Dick took a very different path from his famous siblings. He wasn’t a member of The Cowsills during their late-’60s heyday, but he occasionally performed with the family during later reunions.

Dick died in 2014 at age 64.

In announcing his death, Susan Cowsill revealed a particularly poignant detail: Dick had died peacefully with his twin right beside him. She wrote that he was “sleeping peacefully right next to his twin brother, Bob,” as Bob worked nearby by the light of his computer.

Bob continued making music with his surviving siblings.

The Cowsills reunited in various configurations over the decades, and Bob, Paul and Susan returned with Rhythm of the World in 2022, their first studio album of new material in nearly 25 years.

Looking back on the family’s extraordinary rise and the difficult years that followed, Bob told RetroFan in 2020 that becoming a parent ultimately helped change his perspective.

“Personally, I mean, I had children and responsibilities, and that tends to get your attention,” he said.

More than 60 years after the Cowsill brothers first began making music together, Bob remains part of the family whose harmonies made them pop stars and whose story supplied Hollywood with the blueprint for an entirely different famous family.

Related: ’60s Fictional Band Legend, Who Went on to Work With Cher and Barry Manilow, Turns 81

Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

It’s easy for small items to pile up and make a space feel cluttered, but sometimes all you need is a simple storage solution that can help keep those everyday essentials neatly contained. Right now, Walmart is selling a “gorgeous” wooden box from Drew Barrymore’s Home Decor Line for just $13, giving shoppers an easy way to tidy up without sacrificing style.

The Beautiful Medium Decorative Wooden Box by Drew Barrymore at Walmart can hold jewelry, keepsakes, remotes, and other small essentials that you want close by but out of sight. Its wooden construction and decorative design make it easy to place on a coffee table, dresser, bookshelf or nightstand. Walmart reviewers called it a “great decor piece” that’s both stylish and functional. 

Beautiful Medium Decorative Wooden Box by Drew Barrymore, $13 at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

The box measures 3.75 long by 5.75 inches wide, making it a handy size for smaller belongings that you don’t necessarily want left out in the open. You can use the box to corral jewelry, trinkets, remote controls, keepsakes, or other odds and ends that tend to collect on countertops and tables. 

The box is handcrafted from 100% wood and features an earthy brown hue and natural wood grain that give it a decorative look. For shoppers who like to layer decorative pieces, the box can also be displayed on its own or paired with other eclectic accents. If you need more than one, Walmart also offers a two-pack for $26, so you can use one in each of your favorite spaces.

Related: Amazon’s Modern Minimalist Nightstand Set With Built-In Storage Bins Is a Steal at Just $27

Its pretty design has caught the attention of multiple Walmart shoppers. One reviewer called it the “cutest decorative box,” while another shopper wrote, “I use it on my coffee table to hide coasters in. It is simple and clean-lined, and doesn’t look cheap!”

Shop More Deals

• Costway 6-Piece Stackable Shoe Rack, $122 (was $199) at Walmart
• Costway Slim Bathroom Storage Cabinet, $31 (was $54) at Walmart
• Beautiful by Drew Barrymore Sentiment Needlepoint Lumbar Decorative Pillow, $28 at Walmart

Whether you’re looking for a spot to stash jewelry, hide clutter, or simply add a little warmth or whimsy to your shelves, the Beautiful Medium Decorative Wooden Box by Drew Barrymore is a stylish little storage solution for $13. Head to Walmart to shop it while it’s still in stock and on sale!

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.

Dolly Parton’s death at age 80 has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans, friends, and fellow artists around the world. Among those paying tribute is Harry Wayne Casey, the lead singer of KC and the Sunshine Band.

Hours after Parton’s death on August 25, Casey, 75, shared a photo from his appearance with Parton on her 1976 syndicated variety show, Dolly.

“I am in shock,” Casey captioned the post. “I met Dolly back in the late ’70s. We had the same manager, and I was lucky enough to meet her and know her throughout the years, and then we ended up with the same management team again years later. She was one of the sweetest and kindest people I had ever met. I have many fond memories that I will cherish and hold close to my heart. Such a talent and a tremendous loss to pop and country music and to those who knew and loved her. She will truly be missed.”

KC and the Sunshine Band appeared on the Dolly show on November 27, 1976, performing their disco hit “That’s the Way I Like It” with the country music queen.

Parton introduced Casey and his band by telling fans, “I don’t have to tell you that tonight’s show is going to really be different because we have one of the hottest groups in the country with us.”

She then turned to Casey and said, “KC, I’d just like to give you a big warm Nashville welcome. And to the Sunshine Band.”

“And I’ll tell you what, since tonight is special, why don’t we just kind of be ourselves and pretend like we’re kind of in concert,” Parton added. “You do your thing, like, you do it and I’ll do my thing. … I just wondered if you would sing a song with me.”

“That’s the way I like it!” Casey replied, before the two segued into the 1975 disco hit.

Parton’s syndicated variety show was her first solo TV series. It aired for one season, from 1976 to 1977, and featured a dazzling lineup of popular guest stars from the day, including Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis Jr., Anne Murray, Happy Days star Anson Williams and Parton’s future singing partner Kenny Rogers. The series also welcomed Emmylou Harris and Linda Ronstadt years before they recorded the Trios albums with Parton.

At the time, Parton’s first solo variety show was among the most expensive syndicated music shows in production, costing as much as $100,000 to produce each half-hour program, according to Billboard.

While the variety show was highly rated, Parton wanted to focus on her singing and songwriting career without the rigors of a regular series.

“I want to be a recognized songwriter,” she told Country Music magazine in 1977. “And I want my songs recorded by people in and outside of country music. I want to leave things behind for the public and for my family. I want to do TV, some specials, not like my show, because I felt that was prematurely done on my part, and wasn’t really what I had in mind.”

“It seemed senseless to continue something I didn’t feel I was,” Parton explained.

Related: Dolly Parton Opens Up About the 1976 Song She Wrote to Fight Back Against the Tabloids

Fans of When Hope Calls will be happy to know that beginning on Oct. 29, they can access all seasons in one place. Great American Pure Flix will be the exclusive home for the entire series including the initial first season which originally aired on Hallmark Channel (and was, until recently, available to stream on Hallmark+.) On top of that, Hopefuls will be glad to hear that production on Season 4 is about to get underway and we have all the news about the new season released so far.

The series, recently rebranded as When Hope Calls: Brookfield is about to head in Season 4. Here’s everything we know so far about the new season of When Hope Calls: Brookfield.

🎬 SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬 

When does When Hope Calls Season 4 begin filming?

Season 4 of When Hope Calls is set to head into production in September 2026.

When will When Hope Calls Season 4 premiere?

No exact date has been announced for the Season 4 premiere of When Hope Calls: Brookfield, but look for a 2027 premiere.

Related: Everything We Know About When Calls the Heart Season 14

Where can I stream all seasons of When Hope Calls?

You can stream all three seasons When Hope Calls on Great American Pure Flix starting on Oct. 29. Previously, seasons were split between Hallmark+ and Pure Flix, but now Great American Pure Flix will be the exclusive home for all seasons of When Hope Calls.

What happened in When Hope Calls Season 3?

Throughout Season 3, Nora (Cindy Busby) balanced her role as a lawyer and orphanage matriarch as she navigated the beginnings of a romance with Mountie Fletcher (Christopher Russell). Tensions rose with cattle rustlers and a dangerous hostage situation with Tess (Wendy Crewson). Hannah (Sarah FIsher) dealt with balancing ranch life with her fashion business while Mountie Fletcher dealt with possibly leaving Brookfield forever as he was up for reassignment.

Related: Everything We Know About Lori Loughlin’s Return to Acting

Will Lori Loughlin return for season 4 of When Hope Calls: Brookfield?

While she appeared in the Christmas episodes of When Hope Calls, Lori Loughlin did not return for the remainder of Season 2. There’s certainly an opening for her character to return to Brookfield but for now, it doesn’t appear that Abigail Stanton will be venturing a visit any time soon. Loughlin is returning to When Calls the Heart for a limited run in Season 14.

Related: This ‘When Hope Calls’ Star Is Headed Back to Christmas Movies—See the First Photos

Who is returning for When Hope Calls Season 4? Cindy Busby Cindy Busby as Nora Anderson

Busby has been acting since childhood with a notable role as Ashley Stanton on Canada’s longest running series, Heartland. She has starred in several popular movies for the Hallmark Channel including Unleashing Mr. Darcy, Royal Hearts, and more recently, A Whitewater Romance.

Fun fact: Busby and Christopher Russell have appeared together in several movies including Love in the Forecast and Chasing Waterfalls

Christopher Russell Christopher Russell as Mountie Michael “Fearless” Fletcher

Russell is popular among viewers having starred in dozens of rom-coms over the years. His most recent credits include A Costa Rican Wedding and Operation Nutcracker. He also starred in the Great American Christmas movie, A Vintage Christmas.

Related: Welcome to the Jungle! Frenemies Go in Search of Heirloom Jewelry in A Costa Rican Wedding.

Nick Bateman Nick Bateman as Wyatt

Nick Bateman joins the cast as Wyatt, a foreman who oversees the daily operations on a ranch recently inherited by Hannah Lawrence (Sarah Fisher) Bateman previously starred in the UPtv movie, A Winter Wedding, and has also appeared in A Christmas Miracle for Daisy, A Brush with Love, and Airplane Mode.

Fun fact: Bateman started karate when he was 4 because he wanted to be a Ninja Turtle, but has since gone on to nab four world titles in the sport! Cowabunga!

Sarah Fisher Sarah Fisher as Hannah Lawrence

Sarah Fisher plays Hannah Lawrence, a woman who has inherited a sprawling ranch from her late uncle Ray. Wyatt (Bateman) oversees the day-to-day on the ranch. Fisher is best known for playing Becy Baker on Degrassi: The Next Generation. Her other credits include Heartland, A Harvest Homecoming, and Someone Like You.

Trevor Donovan Trevor Donovan as Constable Jim Reynolds

Donovan guest starred in Season 2 as Constable Jim Reynolds, but will have a more prominent role in Season 3. Reynolds is an experienced Mountie who is known for his strong presence and skills in the field.

Jon McLaren Jon McLaren as Sam Tremblay

Jon McLaren takes over the role of Sam Tremblay, originally played by Marshall Williams. McLaren has starred in several holiday movies including Holiday Mismatch for Hallmark Channel and both Christmas on Windmill Way and A Novel Christmas for GAF. Other credits include Frankie Drake Mysteries, Titans, and Picture Perfect Romance. He also stars in another Great American Family series, Crossroad Springs.

Jesse Hutch Jesse Hutch as Jerry Huntsman

Hutch guest starred in a couple episodes in Season 2 as Jerry Huntsman, a Land Man for a Chicago company looking to buy up land in Brookfield. He has a checkered past leaving Tess and the other farmers wary of his business dealings.

Wendy Crewson Wendy Crewson as Tess Stewart

Tess owns the biggest ranch in town, a business she built with her late husband. She believes Lillian’s adoptive father caused the accident that killed her husband and their relationship has been strained ever since.

Crewson has had a four-decade-long career acting in television and film. Her recent roles include recurring spots on Titans, Tracker, and Irish Blood.

Related: Acorn TV’s ‘Irish Blood’ Finale Sees Fiona Race to Expose a Dark Truth

Hanneke Talbot Hanneke Talbot as Maggie Parsons

A world traveler, Maggie hails from England and begins to work as a nurse when she finds herself in Brookfield.

Hanneke Talbot reprises her role as Maggie. Born in the Netherlands, the British-Canadian Talbot has guest-starred on Star Trek: Discovery, iZombie, Supernatural and Titans.

Related: The Way Home Will Return for Season 4: Everything to Know

Neil Crone Neil Crone as Ronnie Stewart

Ronnie owns the local hotel in Brookfield and always seems to have some get-rich-quick scheme up his sleeve. He’s the brother-in-law to Tess.

Crone, a voice and character actor, has over 160 credits to his name. He is the voice of Gordon on Thomas & Friends: All Engines Go! series, Mayor Montagu on Corn & Peg and Ashton on Luna Petunia.

Pictured (L to R): Jocelyn Hudon, Elizabeth Saunders, Morgan Kohan Elizabeth Saunders as Eleanor Winters

Eleanor looks over the orphanage and helps Lillian with the day-to-day of running of it. She has known Lillian since she was a child and was in her care.

Saunders has over 80 shows to her credit including roles on From, Orphan Black, Transplant, and Clarice. Like Crone, she has voiced many animated characters including Mrs. Turtle on Franklin and Dr. Caroline on Rescue Heroes.

Kalinka Petrie Kalinka Petrie as Lucie Clay

Lucie is Tess’ foreman and grew up with Chuck (Greg Hovanessian). She had hoped to spark a romance with him, but once she realized he only had eyes for Grace, she bowed out gracefully and the two remained friends.

(L to R): Hanneke Talbot, Jefferson Brown Jefferson Brown as Joe Moody

Joe owns the local mercantile and back in Season 1, it looked like Maggie and Joe would be the town’s next couple, but they do explain why the two haven’t pursued a relationship in one of the early episodes of Season 2. 

Brown starred in Hallmark Channel’s The Way Home opposite Andie MacDowell and Chyler Leigh and currently stars on Great American Family’s Crossroad Springs.

Hallmark Channel

Rob Stewart (Tom Clay)

Tom Clay is Lucie’s father and fellow rancher. Lucie grew up learning the ranching business from him and is peeved when he hands over the reins to the family business to her brother. As an act of rebellion (and independence), she convinces Tess to hire her as her new foreman.

Stewart is best known for playing beach bum/private detective Nick Slaughter in Sweating Bullets. He was worked steadily over the years with roles in Mayor of Kingstown, The Way Home, and Zooey’s Extraordinary Playlist.

Jillian Murray Jillian Murray (Justine Marcel)

Murray joins the cast as Justine Marcel, a talented investor and entrepreneur who arrives in Brookfield to meet with Hannah Lawrence (Fisher) about her latest fashion designs. But when her stagecoach is caught up in a robbery, Constable Jim Reynolds (Donovan) comes to her aid — igniting a spark neither of them could have anticipated.

Murray starred opposite Daniel Lissing in Christmas Keepsake for Great American Family. Her other credits include Code Black, An Unlikely Angel, and The Night Shift.

Related: Daniel Lissing Returns for Romance in Great American Family’s Christmas Keepsake

Who is joining the When Hope Calls Season 4 cast? Simon Arblaster Simon Arblaster (Josh)

Arblaster joins the cast as Josh, a new pastor that has comes to Brookfield. His credits include Spartacus: House of Ashur, Invasion, and Meet Me Under the Mistletoe.

How many episodes will there be in Season 4 of When Hope Calls: Brookfield?

There will be eight episodes in Season 4 of When Hope Calls: Brookfield.

Will there be a When Hope Calls Season 5?

No word yet if Great American Family has picked up a fifth season of When Hope Calls.

Where is When Hope Calls: Brookfield filmed?

The fictional town of Brookfield in When Hope Calls is filmed near the town of Powassan, Ontario, Canada—about a three-and-a-half-hour drive north of Toronto. The entire town of Brookfield and all its buildings were built from the ground up specifically for the show.

Is When Hope Calls based on a book series?

The show also has its own series of books. Written by When Calls the Heart author Janette Oke and her daughter, Laurel Oke Logan, the When Hope Calls book series delves deeper into the sisters’ backstory. 

In Unyielding Hope , the first of three books in the series, we learn more about Lillian Walsh (played by Morgan Kohan in the TV series) and her search for her sister, Grace (Jocelyn Hudon), who Lillian had presumed to be dead all these years.

In Sustaining Faith , the second book in the series, an official complaint is lodged against the sisters and their orphanage causing their license to be revoked.

The final book in the series, Unfailing Love , finds the sisters dealing with the aftermath when three children run away from the orphanage.

Check out images from last season of When Hope Calls.

When Hope Calls

Jillian Murray

Great America Media

Great American Family

Wendy Crewson

Great American Media

Kalinka Petrie, Wendy Crewson

Great American Media

Kalinka Petrie

Great American Media

Kalinka Petrie

Great American Media

Neil Crone, Wendy Crewson

Great American Media

Kyana Teresa, Neil Crone

Great American Media

Christopher Russell, Cindy Busby

Great American Media

Kyana Teresa, Neil Crone

Great American Media

Simon Arblaster

Great American Media

Simon Arblaster

Great American Media

Nick Bateman

Great American Media

Nick Bateman, Sarah Fisher

Great American Media

Nick Bateman

Great American Media

Great American Media

Jon McLaren

Great American Media

Great American Media

Great American Media

Great American Family

Next, Where Is When Calls the Heart Filmed?

What a time to be alive for an ’80s kid. The world’s premier Halloween event, Universal Studios Hollywood’s Halloween Horror Nights, is resurrecting beloved pop culture favorites of the past across its impressive line-up. Cult classic Killer Klowns From Outer Space makes its triumphant return alongside a powerful tribute to the Prince of Darkness, Ozzy Osbourne, and for the first time ever, spine-tingling Hellraiser and the creepy Cenobites are in on the action.

I’m a lifelong horror fan, 80s kid and longtime attendee of the event—and I’m shivering with anticipation.

Recently, Universal Studios Hollywood invited me on an exclusive backstage look at this year’s event led by its mastermind, creative director John Murdy, a Southern California native who grew up on horror, especially Universal Classic Monsters. (No, for real, he dished that he saw Frankenstein when he was four years old and that was it. He even built his first haunted house in his parents’ house. Talk about a pedigree.)

Here’s what to expect at this year’s Halloween Horror Nights and a first look at Killer Klowns From Outer Space.

Related: Ozzy Osbourne Is Getting His Own House

Killer Klowns From Outer Space

The 1980s cult classic is no stranger to Halloween Horror Nights, having been reimagined several times throughout the years. While the film didn’t achieve commercial success initially, it unwaveringly continues to resonate with fans, in turn creating demand for its return.  

“When you think about Halloween Horror Nights every year, for the most part, you’re going to see something and then you may never see it again,” Murdy shared. “It’s kind of the sad part of Halloween Horror Nights and part of it that I actually kind of like about it. It comes to life during the haunted season, the fall, and then when it goes, it’s gone. You may never see it again. But in the last several years, we’ve been trying to bring back every year one house that’s like a blast from the past, and bring back a fan favorite house, and that certainly was Killer Klowns From Outer Space. It was always a big favorite with our fans.”

And few could argue with its lasting powering—even if it was a risk at first.

“Killer Klowns was not a big box office film. It was really made by the video store era, people discovering it on video tape, and cable TV,” he continues. “We stay closely in touch with our fan base and many times completely unsolicited by our fan base. They’re just very passionate and vocal about the event. So, they’ll always come and say ‘Hey, why don’t you do this’ or ‘have you ever thought about doing that?’ Each case is unique, but I think with Killer Klowns, when we originally did it, we felt like this movie has grown from being this cult film that only a select number of people knew about to a much wider appeal. So, that’s when we decided to take a chance on it.”

Killer Klowns From Outer Space debuted at the event in 2019 in haunted house form—and the rest is history.  “I was shocked at the demand,” Murdy admits. “It was equal to the most popular things we were doing at the event. And I just didn’t realize that the little film I saw in a movie theater back in the ’80s was going to become so big.”

Today, Murdy often discovers what films attendees are yearning for in an unsuspecting way: He walks around the park to see what t-shirts guests are wearing. Case in point: that’s how they realized the power of Art the Clown from Terrifier, now a fixture of the event.

Related: Universal Studios Hollywood Reveals 2026 Event Lineup

First Look at Killer Klowns From Outer Space

Carly Caramanna

The sci-fi favorite is back in haunted house form, paying homage to the fan favorite film. And spoiler: expect those pesky cotton-candy cocoons. Attendees will feel as if they’ve been transported in time, directly to the fictional Crescent Cove, as they attempt to flee a group of murderous alien circus clowns.

“We’re basically trying to recreate the sets from the film,” shared Murdy. And they nailed it. On a first look walk through, it felt as if we had stepped directly onto the movie set of yesteryear. You’ll first spot that ominous circus tent spaceship and Farmer Gene looking for his lost dog Pooh Bear. Once inside, my eyes grew wider, as we traversed iconic moments and places from the movie, like the police station (If only the cruel Curtis Mooney didn’t dismiss initial concerns his fate might have played out better).

All senses will be engaged, including smell, of which Universal uses a specialized scent-dispensing company to create these realistic odors. Murdy shared that at times these can be something awful (anyone remember the vomit from The Exorcist?), but here, it’s cotton candy and popcorn.

As a lifelong fan of the film, it’s a fitting tribute which will please fans new and old alike. And it might be Universal’s best iteration of it yet.

Related: Get to Know Ozzy Osbourne’s Six Children

Hellraiser

After years of pleas from fans, Hellraiser will be a part of the event for the first time ever. The Cenobites from Clive Barker’s horror franchise, including the absolutely terrifying Pinhead, will wreak mystifying havoc in their very own house based on the original film and following two installments. Legendary actor Doug Bradley, who portrayed Pinhead, is back to lend his voice to the haunted house, reprising his iconic role. Guests will come face to face with iconic scenes, including the family’s chilling attic and the Channard Institute, the psychiatric hospital where the young Kirsty is institutionalized.

Related: How To Watch Hellraiser Movies in Order

Ozzy Osbourne: Prince of Darkness Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights pays tribute to pioneer heavy metal icon Ozzy Osbourne in the all-original haunted houses, “Ozzy Osbourne: Prince of Darkness,” inspired by his prolific solo career.

The music of legendary heavy metal musician Ozzy Osbourne will be celebrated in a brand-new, all-original house, Ozzy Osbourne: Prince of Darkness. Murdy shared that on a personal level, this is the one he’s most excited about. “It’s kind of crazy to think that in less than a year’s time, we went from ‘we have an idea’ to ‘we’re doing it.’ All of us, our mantra about this was: ‘it has to happen. This needs to be done.’” 

Osbourne was first featured in the event as part of a 2013 house themed to Black Sabbath. “We just thought for his legion of fans that it would be great to be able to create something that would really celebrate his legacy and do it at Horror Nights. The family was great and really wanted to help us make that a reality,” Murdy adds.

Related: Shocking Ozzy Osbourne Moment Is Now a Drink

Each scene draws inspiration from the pioneering musician and his prolific solo career, including albums Ordinary Man and Bark at The Moon. Authentic in every way, the creative team collaborated directly with Osbourne’s family. The house opens in Birmingham, England, the musician’s home. And from there, guests will travel the “Crazy Train” of time through his early childhood through the decades of stardom and his unique personalities, including Madman Ozzy, Werewolf Ozzy and of course, the Prince of Darkness. The house is dark, at times surreal and above all, a fitting tribute to the cultural phenomenon.

Related: Ozzy Osbourne and ’80s Horror Get Metal Merch Treatment

What Else To Expect

Each year, Halloween Horror Nights brings to life the world’s most iconic television shows, scary movies and pop culture moments at a production level only tinsel town could pull off. Horror lovers of all types won’t want to miss this year’s event, which includes houses inspired by the fifth and final installment of Netflix’s Stranger Things, Sinners based on Warner Bros’ Pictures Academy Award-winning film and Evil Dead Burn. Art The Clown, the sadist slasher from indie darling Terrifier, will also be terrorizing fans at the event aboard the infamous Terror Tram, a unique attraction that takes park goers on foot through Universal’s historic backlot. 

New this year, Obsession’s Nikki will make nightly “freaky” appearances. Also announced, “Dead, Deader, Deadest” will be an all-new, original house set inside a disturbing abandoned funeral home. And fiery stunt show, “The Purge: Dangerous Water,” returns, honoring Universal’s legacy in the movie special effects and stunt industry.  

How To Visit

Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood returns Sept. 3 running select nights through Nov. 1. Tickets are available now with several options available, including general admission and an early access ticket. For the ultimate experience, a guided R.I.P. Tour is available that allows for expedited access to all houses.

And for the first time ever, Universal Studios Hollywood will debut an “Unmasking the Horror Tour Add-On” granting a behind-the-scenes look at the craftsmanship that goes into curating this event.

Related: Ozzy Osbourne and ’80s Horror Get the Metal Merch Treatment at Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights

Six weeks of near silence from Taylor Swift ended…. but not with wedding photos. Swift broke her silence with a birthday shoutout for one of her closest friends in music. On August 17, Swift posted to her Instagram Story for the first time since marrying Travis Kelce on July 3, and the post was about Phoebe Bridgers, not her new husband.

The post coincided with Bridgers turning 32 and releasing her third studio album, “Lost Weekend,” on August 14. Swift linked the record and called it, in her words, “an absolute triumph in every way,” praising Bridgers for writing about grief with vulnerability and trusting listeners with that honesty. She closed the message with a simple birthday wish and an “I love you.” It was a short post, but a welcome one for a fan base that had been waiting weeks for any sign of her.

Swift and Bridgers have built their friendship in public over several years. Swift recorded “Nothing New” with Bridgers for 2021’s “Red (Taylor’s Version),” praised Bridgers’ boygenius album “The Record” as a masterpiece in 2023, and brought Bridgers on as an opening act for several Eras Tour dates that same year. The collaboration made Bridgers one of the few artists Swift has repeatedly and publicly championed.

Related: Knicks Radio Host Caught on Hot Mic Dismissing Taylor Swift at NBA Finals

Swift’s silence since her wedding had become its own story. She and Kelce married at Madison Square Garden with roughly 1,000 guests, but no official wedding photos have been released, and the couple has not made a joint public appearance as newlyweds. Swift was photographed over the past weekend in England at the wedding of friends Oli Jacobs and Laura Sisk, alongside Sabrina Carpenter and Jack Antonoff, marking one of her only public sightings since her own ceremony. She attended without Kelce.

That backdrop made the choice to break her silence for Bridgers, rather than to share anything from her own wedding, stand out to fans who had expected a different kind of return. Some had hoped for a first look at wedding photos or a joint post with Kelce. Instead, Swift used the moment to spotlight a friend’s new work.

Bridgers’ “Lost Weekend” arrives as her third solo album, following 2020’s “Punisher,” and continues the intensely personal songwriting that has defined her career. With Swift’s endorsement now attached to it, the record has a new wave of attention behind it, even as Swift’s own, well, “lost” wedding pictures remain locked away for now.

🎬SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox🎬

Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

When it comes to transforming a living space into a cozy sanctuary, the right furniture makes all the difference. Enter the cloud couch, a standout option that seamlessly blends comfort, functionality, and style. With its ultra plush design and thoughtful features, it’s no wonder this sofa style has been exploding in popularity lately.

If you’re looking to jump on the cloud couch trend, Wayfair has a compelling option on sale ahead of Labor Day. The Latitude Run Corduroy Modular Cloud Couch, originally priced at $1,180, is now available for as low as $340. With up to a 71% discount on this stylish piece (prices vary slightly by color), now is a great time to consider making a cozy upgrade to your living space.

Latitude Run Corduroy Cloud Couch, From $340 (was $1,180) at Wayfair Shop at Wayfair

Manufactured by Latitude Run, the Cloud Couch boasts nearly 300 five-star reviews — proof of its popularity among buyers. The soft chenille upholstery combined with the foam-filled cushions creates an extra cozy seating experience. Overall, it’s an excellent choice for various activities — whether it’s movie nights, enjoying a good book, or simply relaxing after a busy day.

One of the highlights of this couch is the two included ottomans. These ottomans add functionality to your living area, and they’re great for propping up your feet or serving as additional seating when hosting friends. 

With its spacious dimensions of 90 inches by 56 inches (and a cozy 24-inch seat depth), the cloud couch fits well in a range of settings, including living rooms and dens. It’s also offered in four colors — black, olive green, slate gray, and khaki — to match different types of decor. Its thoughtful design prioritizes comfort, making it a valuable addition to any home.

Latitude Run Corduroy Cloud Couch, From $340 (was $1,180) at Wayfair

Courtesy of Wayfair

Shop at Wayfair

In the reviews, shoppers have described the affordable cloud couch as cozy, “plush,” and great for napping. “Easy to assemble,” one shopper wrote. “Super comfortable. Naps have already been taken and enjoyed on this beautiful new purchase.”

In addition to being cozy, maintaining the couch is convenient thanks to removable cushions that allow for easy cleaning. You can spot clean the corduroy fabric using mild detergent when it needs a refresh. 

This cloud couch is also designed for easy assembly, taking approximately 30 minutes to put together. That makes it particularly beneficial for those who prefer a hassle-free setup. Plus, Wayfair offers free one-day delivery, which is ideal for those eager to start enjoying their new furniture right away. 

Related: Martha Stewart’s ‘Pretty’ Pumpkin and Sunflower Tablecloth Is Perfect Decor for the Summer-to-Fall Transition

The $340 corduroy cloud couch is a well-rounded choice for anyone seeking to combine comfort, functionality, and style in their living space. Don’t miss your chance to score your favorite color while it’s still in stock during Wayfair’s early Labor Day sale!

As families settle into the back-to-school groove, Disney Cruise Line is giving travelers something big to daydream about.

The cruise line just revealed its schedule for Fall 2027 and Spring 2028, and while the lineup includes new home ports, Panama Canal transits, and tropical Caribbean getaways, one announcement has Disney fans celebrating across social media: Disney Cruise Line is officially heading back to New York City.

After an extended hiatus, the modern Disney Wish will arrive in Manhattan in late September 2027 following its European inaugural season. The ship will sail seven special voyages from New York, featuring four- to seven-night itineraries to the pink-sand beaches of Bermuda—with three voyages including an overnight stay—alongside scenic fall foliage sailings up to Canada and the New England coast for the first time in nearly four years.

Related: Disney Treasure Review: Is It the Perfect Family Cruise Line Ship?

View this post on Instagram

The return to the Big Apple sparked an immediate wave of excitement in the comments on the Disney Cruise Line Instagram announcement, especially among East Coast families eager to skip airport terminals and embark right from Manhattan. Commenters chimed in with enthusiasm, writing, “RETURNING TO NYC BABY! @disneycruiseline—shooting my shot again,” while another fan cheered, “NYC finally!!! The northeast is thrilled!” Others were already checking their calendars, adding, “NYC! need more details so I can plan.”

Beyond the New York comeback, the 2027–2028 deployment brings significant shifts across the fleet. For the very first time, the heroes-and-villains-themed Disney Destiny will homeport at Port Canaveral in Fall 2027 for three- to seven-night Bahamas and Western Caribbean sailings, after launching its season in Fort Lauderdale.

Related: Readers Voted This Iconic Fleet the No. 1 ‘World’s Best’ Cruise Line

Meanwhile, the classic Disney Magic will embark on two 14-night repositioning cruises through the Panama Canal, featuring maiden calls in Fuerte Amador (Panama City) on the eastbound route and Colon, Panama, on the westbound journey.

Private island double-dips are also on the horizon. Both the Disney Treasure and Disney Dream will feature special six-night Bahamian sailings with two stops at Disney Castaway Cay, while select Disney Magic voyages from Galveston, Texas, will visit both Castaway Cay and Disney’s newest island retreat, Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point. On other coasts, the Disney Wish and Disney Fantasy will offer five- to seven-night sailings out of San Juan, Puerto Rico, while the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder will team up in San Diego for Mexican Riviera and Baja sailings.

For travelers looking to secure staterooms early, bookings open in tiers for Castaway Club members starting August 31, 2026, with general public bookings opening on September 8, 2026, on disneycruise.com.

Related: Disney Cruise Line’s Next Ship Class Arrives in 2029—and It Looks Unlike Anything Else in the Fleet

Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

If you’re looking for small-space patio furniture that can upgrade your outdoor area without overwhelming it, now’s the perfect time to shop. Many retailers are currently offering steep end-of-season discounts on patio sets, giving buyers the chance to save big on outdoor furniture they’ll use for years to come. Whether you’re creating a cozy spot for morning coffee, entertaining guests, or simply relaxing outside after work, it’s easier than ever to refresh your space without overspending.

One standout deal is the Sweetcrispy 3-Piece Patio Furniture Set. Already reasonably priced, this compact set is an even better value right now, marked down from $80 to just $72.

Sweetcrispy 3-Piece Patio Furniture Set, From $72 (was $80) at Amazon 

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at Amazon

The set includes everything you need for a comfortable seating area: two armchairs and one matching coffee table. Each chair measures 20.5 inches long, 21.3 inches wide, and 31.5 inches tall, while the table measures 15.5 inches long and wide with a height of 16.1 inches. 

Its smaller footprint makes it an excellent choice for balconies, patios, porches, and compact backyards. It comes in a black hue that’s easy to incorporate into a variety of outdoor styles. 

Durability is one of the biggest selling points. The furniture is built with rust-resistant steel frames and hand-woven PE rattan wicker that’s designed to handle the elements. The all-weather construction helps it withstand sun exposure, rain, and changing seasonal conditions while maintaining its appearance over time. The material is also UV-resistant and water-resistant for added peace of mind.

The included coffee table adds both style and functionality. Its tempered glass tabletop offers a sleek, modern look while providing a sturdy surface for drinks, snacks, or decorative accents. The glass is heat-resistant, scratch-resistant, easy to clean, and supports up to 66 pounds, making it practical for everyday use.

Comfort hasn’t been overlooked either. The chairs feature curved ergonomic backrests that provide supportive seating during long conversations or relaxing afternoons outdoors. High-density three-layer foam cushions add extra comfort, while the removable cushion covers can be taken off and washed whenever they need freshening up.

Another advantage is the simple assembly process. The set comes with straightforward instructions, allowing for a relatively quick setup. Once assembled, the lightweight design makes it easy to rearrange the pieces to fit your space. It’s a versatile option for patios, poolside seating areas, balconies, gardens, porches, and small backyards.

One shopper shared, “The furniture is impressively solid and stable. It looks great on the patio, is pretty comfortable, and overall it offers a lot of value for an affordable furniture set.” 

Another reviewer shared, “The set transformed my outdoor space into a cozy retreat. Ideal for gardens, terraces, porches, or lawns, it offers comfort and style for relaxing or entertaining outdoors.”

Related: Amazon’s $35 Scalloped Ceramic Sunflower Bowl Makes the Prettiest Addition to a Fall Tablescape

For a stylish, practical, and budget-friendly patio set, the Sweetcrispy 3-Piece Patio Furniture Set is hard to beat. Snag it for just $72 before stock runs out!

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.

Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

Walmart has a new brand in its fashion lineup, and it feeds a growing demand for affordable pieces that still feel elevated. The line, called Scenario, offers a wide range of quiet luxury-looking shirts, bags, sneakers, and more with luxe details that remind us of offerings from iconic European design houses. 

Walmart’s Scenario Lace Up Low Profile Sneakers are drawing attention for their sophisticated silhouette and accessible price point. At just $27, these sneakers offer up a style that echoes the refined, minimalist lines seen in some of today’s most coveted designer collections, but without the $1,200 price tag.

Scenario Lace Up Low Profile Sneakers, $27 at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Scenario sneakers feature a faux suede upper and a streamlined, low-profile shape that adds a polished finish to everyday outfits. The versatile color palette, ranging from carob and burgundy to olive and a chic multicolor, makes these shoes easy to pair with both casual and more elevated attire. Subtle details, including careful stitching and a rounded toe, contribute to an overall look that feels current and versatile for a variety of dressing styles.

Beyond their appearance, these sneakers are designed for comfort. They feature a memory foam insole for extra cushioning during daily wear and a lightweight outsole that makes each step easy. The lace-up closure offers a tailored fit, while the manmade uppers make them simple to wipe clean.

Scenario Lace Up Low Profile Sneakers, $27 at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

The Scenario sneakers are already earning recognition for both their style and practicality. Many reviews mentioned the sneakers’ resemblance to higher-end designer footwear. Others praised the quality and construction, particularly for a shoe at this price point.

One shopper raved about the “super cute” fall color options, adding that the shoes are “so comfortable.”

“Stylish, comfortable, and perfect for everyday wear,” another shopper noted. “​They have a very versatile retro aesthetic that goes with everything, from jeans to casual dresses. They are lightweight and very soft for walking all day without fatigue.”

While the sneakers are available exclusively through Walmart, their design and versatility make them a contender in the quiet luxury conversation. 

Shop More Deals

• Scenario Women’s Saddle Bag in Brown Fringe, $27 at Walmart 
• Scenario Goldtone Horsebit Drop Earrings, $10 at Walmart
• Scenario Woven Mini Clam Tote, $33 at Walmart

Related: Amazon’s $20 Linen Button-Down Tank Is the Perfect ‘Lightweight’ Summer Travel Companion

For those seeking a polished, designer-inspired look without the premium cost, Scenario’s $27 Lace Up Low Profile Sneakers offer a compelling option that fits your budget.

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.

Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

If you want to bring the beauty of the outdoors inside, sometimes all it takes is a simple decor swap: a botanical tablecloth, a fun floral lamp, or a rug woven from natural fibers. To beat the heat in more ways than one, you could start by replacing your bedding with something light, airy, and garden-inspired. Right now, Macy’s has a ton of fantastic deals on bedding, but one comforter set stands out as the perfect late-summer refresh — and it’s currently 70% off in every size!

Normally $80, the Penelope Reversible Printed 3-Piece Comforter Set is on sale for just $24 in twin, full/queen, and king sizes. The reversible design of this floral bedding set gives you two fresh looks, so you can easily switch up the vibe of your bedroom anytime the mood strikes.

Penelope Reversible Printed 3-Piece Comforter Set, $24 (was $80) at Macy’s

Courtesy of Macy's

Shop at Macy's

This three-piece bedding set includes the comforter and two matching shams in the full/queen or king sizes and one sham for the twin size. A lovely floral print on one side bursts from a cool gray background in shades of pink, blue, and yellow with gorgeous pops of color. The reverse side also features a dreamy array of cascading flowers, but in tranquil cream hues. 

Made from microfiber, the featherlight comforter is ideal for warm summer nights when you want to feel cozy but need to stay cool. Once fall rolls around, you could easily throw another blanket on the bed if you need more warmth but still want to keep the botanical aesthetic as the seasons change. Macy’s shoppers said this set was “easy to wash,” holding up in the washer and dryer without fraying or fading. 

Reviewers were impressed by this “very lightweight” and “soft” comforter set, particularly for summer and transitional weather. One person shared that the “pleasant design” boasts “beautiful flowers.”  Describing the reverse side of the comforter, one shopper said the beige and white floral design looked “serene.”

Related: Clarks’ ‘Supportive’ Sandals Are Cushioned for Comfort and Feature Straps That ‘Don’t Rub,’ Now 40% Off

Sleep like a dream this summer with the garden-inspired Penelope Reversible Printed 3-Piece Comforter Set. Snag the enchanting set in any size for just $24 right now at Macy’s before it sells out!

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. 

Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

Street style will always be on trend, especially if you live in big cities where you’re constantly walking. Even if you’re not in a bustling city but you’re constantly on-the-go, then you’re still in need of fashionable sneakers that elevate your look and keep you comfortable. These Adidas Streettalk Sneakers will effortlessly upgrade your wardrobe at a budget price, since they’re up to 31% off at Amazon now.

The retailer has a slew of amazing styles on sale in the Adidas section, with these casual sneakers being marked down from $75 to as low as $52 in the linen green colorway. The prices do range depending on the size and color preference you choose, with styles like the classic white, black, and gold priced at $57. There are approximately 11 colors being sold, as the stock varies, with sizes ranging from 7 to 11 (wide and half sizes are available). 

Adidas Streettalk Sneakers, From $52 (were $75) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at Amazon

The traditional lace-up sneakers offer a clean look that you can adjust to your comfort, and you can even customize your own pair by switching out the laces. The footwear consists of a faux leather upper with a textile lining that’s soft for all day comfort. The rubber heel is designed to keep your foot secure, but also is flexible enough that you can move around freely. 

Adidas Streettalk Sneakers, From $52 (were $75) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at Amazon

Just note that these sneakers aren’t water-resistant and don’t have significant traction, so you want to use them in casual settings instead of intense activities like running or hiking. If you intend on walking in them for long periods, some shoppers recommend an additional padded insert. Without the insert though, shoppers still cite them as “really comfortable” and “lightweight for walking.”

Due to the fact that they’re more of a fashion shoe, they can even be dressed up with frilly socks or ’90s-inspired slouch socks. The low-top design has been trendy for years so they’ll last you quite a while. One reviewer wrote that the “versatile” style “matches with everything,” so you can pair them with everything from dresses to trousers. If your workplace is slightly more relaxed in terms of professional wear, then they’re also a convenient office shoe. 

Shop More Deals 

• Anocomafio Heeled Raffia Sandals, $30 (was $49) at Amazon
• Prettygarden Faux Leather Motorcycle Jackets, $38 (was $59) at Amazon
• Project Cloud Genuine Leather Slip-On Loafers, $40 (was $55) at Amazon

These Adidas sneakers are “absolutely adorable” for all seasons. Keep them crisp by wiping them down with a damp cloth when they get dirty. Considering they’re low maintenance and cute, you should add them to your Amazon cart for up to 31% off now! 

Related: Amazon’s ‘Luxurious’ Fleece Throw Makes Fall Evenings on the Couch So Much Cozier for Just $9

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.

After six long years, Lennon Stella is getting ready to feed her fans with brand-new music—something many of them thought might never happen after the lengthy drought.

The Nashville alum, who, of course, played the daughter of Connie Britton’s Rayna Jaymes and Charles Esten’s Deacon Claybourne, Maddie Conrad, just unveiled her second album, Sleeping Lion, which is slated for release on Oct. 23 and follows her 2020 debut studio album, Three. Two One., and a 2018 EP Love, Me.

And because fans will simply be too impatient to wait another moment longer after all this time, tomorrow, Aug. 27, the first single, “Unforgivable Things,” and its music video will be available to stream.

“My heart is pounding,” she concluded in the announcement. “I’ve missed you.”

View this post on Instagram

Her loyal listeners have missed her, too, promising that the new tracks are “going platinum in my house!!!”

“JAW ON THE FLOOR, the world is HEALING,” someone else emphasized, while another agreed, “I am not chill about this in the slightest.”

Those who have been biding their time, waiting for this news to come couldn’t believe their good fortune, with one commenter writing, “Girl the way I’ve BEEN SAYIN WE NEEDED YOU BACK 😭😭😭😭😭,” and another quipping, “and when the world needed her most she returned!!!”

Fans also flooded TikTok with memories from previous shows, sharing live clips and itching for what they hope to be a forthcoming tour announcement.

“Oh 🥹🥹 I absolutely will be stuck in a Lennon Stella loop for the rest of this year !!!” one declared.

“Words can’t describe the joy I felt hearing this today,” said another. “I’m fully prepared to bawl my eyes out.”

Her unconventional approach to the drums became one of the defining sounds of one of rock’s most influential bands.

Moe Tucker, the drummer who helped shape the sound of The Velvet Underground, turns 82 on Aug. 26, 2026.

Born Maureen Ann Tucker on Aug. 26, 1944, in Queens, New York, Tucker grew up on Long Island and developed an early love of rock and roll. She eventually began playing drums and was working as a key-punch operator for IBM when an unexpected opportunity changed the course of her life.

In 1965, Tucker was recruited to join The Velvet Underground after the band’s original drummer, Angus MacLise, left. Guitarist Sterling Morrison knew Tucker through her brother, Jim, and remembered that she played drums.

Tucker quickly became an important part of the group.

Unlike many drummers, she often played standing up, using a stripped-down kit and a distinctive, primal style. Her approach became an integral part of The Velvet Underground’s sound.

Tucker also occasionally stepped out from behind the drums to sing. She provided lead vocals on “After Hours” and “The Murder Mystery” from 1969’s The Velvet Underground, as well as “I’m Sticking With You,” which was recorded during the band’s early years and later released on the 1985 compilation VU.

The Velvet Underground’s commercial success during its original run was modest, but the band’s influence grew dramatically over the decades. Its work with Lou Reed, John Cale, Sterling Morrison, Tucker and Nico became hugely influential on punk, alternative and experimental rock.

Tucker left the group in 1970 while pregnant, and she later pursued a solo career, releasing albums including Life in Exile After Abdication and I Spent a Week There the Other Night.

She was also inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of The Velvet Underground in 1996.

RELATED:

Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

It’s often said that the best things come in small packages, and jewelry makes a pretty good argument for it. A necklace may only take up a sliver of your chest, but the right one can have an outsized effect on an outfit. Dainty earrings with color or sparkle can give a simple dress a finishing touch, or make a jeans-and-tee combination feel more polished. They’re all small details, but sometimes, that’s all a look needs.

That finishing-touch appeal is what the Rawbar Delicate Stone Bracelet at Anthropologie serves in spades. It’s currently just $10, down 71% from $34, thanks to the retailer’s end-of-summer sale-on-sale. The only catch? You’ll need to sign up to become an AnthroPerks Member (it’s free!) before adding it to your cart to secure the full discount. Whether you wear this bracelet on its own or pile it on with your favorites, it’s a tiny addition that can make a surprisingly big difference.

Rawbar Delicate Stone Bracelet, $10 (was $35) at Anthropologie

Courtesy of Anthropologie

Shop at Anthropologie

The bracelet mixes 14-karat gold-plated brass with softly colored glass stones and tiny pearl-like beads for a dainty, almost heirloom-inspired look. The glass stones are spaced individually around the bracelet rather than clustered together, with each one cut into an irregular, softly rounded shape that gives the design a more organic quality. Depending on your pick, those stones come in creamy white and pale lilac, both subtle enough to work alongside other pieces.

The chain deserves a closer look, too. Instead of one uninterrupted strand of traditional links, the bracelet alternates fine oval links with tiny faceted gold-toned beads, creating little flashes of texture and shine between the larger glass stones. Even smaller pearl beads are dotted throughout, so there are details all the way around the wrist. The combination of petite links, metallic beads, and translucent glass gives the bracelet a light, almost floating appearance, particularly where the stones are separated by the finer sections of chain.

Rawbar Delicate Stone Bracelet, $10 (was $35) at Anthropologie

Courtesy of Anthropologie

Shop at Anthropolgie

At 6.5 inches long, it also includes a 1.25-inch extender for adjusting where it sits on the wrist. A lobster clasp secures the bracelet, while the extender is finished with a small oval charm for an extra polished detail at the back. Wear it alone when you want just a hint of color, or work it into a bracelet stack with a slim gold chain or watch to play up the mix of textures.

Shop More Deals

• Mixed Stone Bracelet, $10 (was $34) at Anthropologie
• Textured Statement Bracelet, $13 (was $44) at Anthropologie
• Metal Shell Cuff Bracelet, $10 (was $38) at Anthropologie

Anthropologie shoppers adored this “gorgeous” bracelet, calling the design “beautiful.” One reviewer wrote that it’s “perfectly dainty with a bit of sparkle” and “layers well.” Another customer appreciated its versatility, noting that it can be “dressed up” or paired with more casual outfits.

Related: Anthropologie’s Enchanting Teardrop Crystal Studs Add a Luxurious Touch to Any Look for Just $25

If your jewelry collection could use a small but mighty addition, the Rawbar Delicate Stone Bracelet is worth a closer look. Shop it for just $10 during Anthropologie’s end-of-summer sale-on-sale before the markdown 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.

Today’s New York Times Connections Sports Edition puzzle covers terms for vulnerable spots, famous cycling races, University of Texas traditions and names that begin with singular forms of NFL team names, among other things.

Get excited—there’s another New York Times game to add to your daily routine! Those of us word game addicts who already play Wordle, Connections, Strands and the Mini Crossword now have Connections Sports Edition to add to the mix.

So, if you’re looking for some hints and answers for today’s Connections Sports Edition on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, you’ve come to the right place.

🎬 SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 

Today’s NYT Connections Sports Puzzle for Wednesday, August 26, 2026 / New York Times

New York Times

What Is Connections Sports Edition?

Connections Sports Edition is just like the regular Connections word puzzle, in that it’s a game that resets at 12 a.m. EST each day and has 16 different words listed. It’s up to you to figure out each group of four words that belong to a certain category, with four categories in total.

This new version is sports-specific, however, as a partnership between The New York Times and The Athletic.

As the NYT site instructs, for Connections Sports Edition, you “group sports terms that share a common thread.”

Related: The 26 Funniest NYT Connections Game Memes You’ll Appreciate if You Do This Daily Word Puzzle

Hints for Today’s Connections Sports Edition Categories on August 26, 2026

Here are some hints about the four categories to help you figure out the word groupings.

• Yellow: Injury-prone
• Green: Cycling
• Blue: Go Longhorns
• Purple: Could be spelled like a sports team

Here Are Today’s Connections Sports Edition Categories

OK, time for a second hint…we’ll give you the actual categories now. Spoilers below!

• Yellow: VULNERABLE SPOT
• Green: FAMOUS CYCLING RACES
• Blue: ASSOCIATED WITH THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS
• Purple: STARTS WITH AN NFL TEAM, IN SINGULAR FORMS

If you’re looking for the answers, no worries—we’ve got them below. So, don’t scroll any further if you don’t want to see the solutions!

The answers to today’s Connections Sports Edition #702 are coming up next.

Related: 15 Fun Games Like Connections to Play Every Day

What Are the Answers to Connections Sports Edition Today?

• Yellow: VULNERABLE SPOT: ACHILLES’ HEEL, DEFECT, FLAW, WEAKNESS
• Green: FAMOUS CYCLING RACES: GIRO D’ITALIA, IL LOMBARDIA, TOUR DE FRANCE, VUELTA A ESPANA
• Blue: ASSOCIATED WITH THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS: AUSTIN, BEVO, BURNT ORANGE, HOOK ‘EM
• Purple: STARTS WITH AN NFL TEAM, IN SINGULAR FORMS: COLT MCCOY, LIONEL MES

Don’t worry if you didn’t get them this time—we’ve all been there.

Up next, catch up on the answers to recent Wordle puzzles.

Related: NYT Connections Sports Edition Today: Hints and Answers for Tuesday, August 25, 2026