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Here's When You Can Shop at Aldi on Fourth of July This Year
If you're throwing a Fourth of July bash this year and want to go all out without breaking the bank, you might want to consider shopping at Aldi. The beloved grocer is every savvy shopper's best-kept secret for finding high-quality goods at a fraction of the cost, and for a celebration as big as America 250, it's a great idea to see how far you can actually stretch your cash. Whether you're planning to feed your entire neighborhood or just a few family and friends, Aldi has everything you need to put on a dazzling star-spangled display fit for the Fourth of July, all without the extra markup.
From mouthwatering smash burgers ready to toss on the grill to ice cream in every flavor imaginable, the budget-friendly retailer is the perfect place to shop if you're hosting this year. But if you find yourself deep in the throes of prep and realize you forgot the buns or need some extra foil, you might wonder, Is Aldi open on the Fourth of July? Luckily, you've come to the right place to find the answer.
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Is Aldi Open on Fourth of JulyAkos Stiller / Bloomberg via Getty Images
With all the pressure of trying to match the over-the-top energy of this year's festivities, it's understandable that you might bite off more than you can chew (pun intended) and find yourself in a bit of a pickle at the last minute. Fortunately, Aldi stores will be open on the Fourth of July, so you can make a run for it if you end up needing an extra pack of hot dogs or fruit for your famous summer fruit salad. Even if you're not up against the clock and just want to add one more dish to the menu, it's good to know you can grab what you need without spending too much extra money. How's that for a happy Fourth?
Related: Aldi's Clever Summer Staple Is a Pool Party Must-Have
What Are Aldi's Fourth of July Hours?The only caveat to that, though, is that you'll want to get to Aldi as early as possible, as most stores will operate on reduced hours for the holiday. While exact times may vary by location, stores are generally expected to wind things down by 4 p.m. Regardless, you should always double-check with your local store to confirm they're actually open, and it might be a good idea to have a backup plan just in case.
Either way, there's still plenty of time to pull everything together and still save a few extra bucks in the process. Happy Fourth indeed.
Your Perfect 4th of July Cookout Bite, Based on Birth Month
The best part of celebrating the 4th of July isn't watching the fireworks, playing at the beach, or winning a water fight—it’s the BBQ. Everyone has their favorite cookout BBQ food that they look forward to every year. Depending on your birth month, you might salivate over a juicy, grilled cheeseburger or you might be dreaming of a chilled pasta dish. Other birth months might look forward to the sweet treats, fresh veggies, and other amazing bites. What will be your perfect 4th of July BBQ bite, based on your birth month? Read on to find out.
Your 4th of July BBQ Bite, Based on Your Birth MonthCheck for the month you were born for pro insights.
January: ColeslawPeople born in January look forward to the classic BBQ side dishes. January’s influenced by the traditional Saturnian signs, Capricorn and Aquarius, so they appreciate tried-and-true side dishes. However, January’s also impartial to underdogs given Aquarius’ influence. Between their loyalty to traditional dishes and rooting for underdogs, it’s no wonder that January’s perfect bite is coleslaw. This chilled, creamy side dish is a BBQ staple. Although it’s not for everyone, January genuinely appreciates the tangy, refreshing energy coleslaw brings to the BBQ.
February: Pasta SaladFebruary loves an underrated side dish. Individualistic Aquarius and imaginative Pisces guides this birth month, so they look for a versatile yet reputable staple. Pasta salad is exactly what February is looking for. February can find something to love in any pasta salad. Anything is possible with pasta salad. February’s drawn to this BBQ bit for it’s the fun pasta shape, sharp bite of cheese, and splash of dressing. Pasta salad offers something unique that no other side dish can, which keeps February coming back for more.
March: PopsicleMarch knows the best part of the BBQ is the sweet treats. The Pisces and Aries born during this month don’t really care for anything off the grill or the side dishes when they know sugary popsicles are chilling in the freezer. The bright, fruity flavors align with March’s vibrant personality. Zesty orange, rich grape, and vivacious cherry all hold a special place in March’s heart. March cannot picture their 4th of July celebrations without their favorite icy treat.
April: BBQ RibsSmelling the sweet, barbeque smoke always makes April salivate. April has exemplary tastebuds thanks to being co-ruled by bold Aries and sensuous Taurus, so they’re paired with BBQ ribs. April suddenly finds patience if it means their favorite dish is nothing short of perfect. April cannot resist the sweet, sticky, and smoky flavor profile. Eating rich, tender meat that falls off the bone brings April’s inner animal. Don’t be surprised if you find April nibbling on the rib bone to get every bit of flavor.
May: Corn on the CobPeople born in May know the true BBQ star is the seasonal veggies. Both the stubborn May Tauruses and May Geminis agree that corn on the cob is the best bite. There’s nothing better than biting into a fresh, crunchy corn on the cob. May might be impartial to keeping it simple by glazing their corn butter and light seasoning. However, corn on the cob is so versatile, so May can play around with different recipes. No matter what May settles on, individuals born during this month will never tire of corn on the cob.
MORE: Why You Haven’t Met Your Soulmate Yet, Based on Your Birth Month
June: Potato SaladSimilar to January, those born in June favor the staple BBQ side dishes. June’s Gemini side might be impartial to experimenting with different bites, but their Cancerian heart will always be led back to potato salad. June doesn’t have to wonder what’s good to eat, because potato salad is their safe food at the BBQ. Potato salad is a comforting and cozy classic side dish. Unlike other BBQ foods, June can always depend on potato salad for their perfect bite.
July: HotdogJuly’s favorite cookout food is arguably the star of the show. Individuals born during this month look for nostalgic flavors thanks to their Cancerian energy. They also want something that’s a showstopper due to being influenced by dazzling Leo. Between their sentimentality and showstopper personality, July cannot deny that the hotdog is their perfect match. The hotdog has the charisma, and wistfulness July looks for. Biting into a warm hotdog will immediately bring July back to past 4th of July celebrations.
August: Red, White, & Blue TrifleAugust isn’t watching the grill—they’re keeping an eye on the dessert table. Between their passionate Leo attitude and precise Virgo eye, August truly appreciates the thought that goes into each 4th of July treat. Although there are many contenders, the red, white, and blue trifle steal the show. August cannot help but marvel at the perfect layers and light, fruity taste. If August didn’t make this treat, then be rest assured that August will get the recipe by the end of the BBQ.
RELATE?: The Iconic Movie Quote That Was Made for You, Based on Your Birth Date
September: Caprese SaladSeptember is particular about what they can eat at the cookout. Everyone born in September is co-ruled by picky Virgo and conscientious Libra, so they’re impartial to healthier foods. While grilled chicken and fresh veggies are great, September’s perfect bite is caprese salad. September loves that caprese salad has all the flavor and richness without being overly indulgent. September will be especially won over if the basil and tomatoes are homegrown. Even if they’re not, September cannot deny that caprese salad is the cookout MVP.
October: KabobsThose born in October are more complex than they’re credited for. October shares Libra’s desire for harmony and Scorpio’s depth, so they’re intentional with their BBQ bite. Of all the contenders, kabobs steal October’s heart. Layers of seasonal veggies and marinated meats create a profound flavor profile that matches October’s layered personality. Others might be picky about what they’ll eat off a kabob, but October genuinely appreciates the kabob’s intricacy and intentionality.
November: Deviled EggsNovember appreciates a side dish most would overlook or not even think of bringing to the BBQ. The mix of empathetic Scorpio and cultured Sagittarius found in all November-born is drawn to deviled eggs. This particular dish conjures extremely different reactions. Some hate seeing this at the cookout, but November has the mature palate to appreciate this dish’s creamy, acidic flavor profile. Deviled eggs require a level of sophistication only someone born in November possesses.
EXPLORE: The 4 Most Passionate Birth Months
December: CheeseburgerDecember goes big or goes home with their favorite BBQ food. Their expansive Sagittarius palate and traditional Capricorn mindset will never be disappointed eating a hearty cheeseburger. December can leave it on the plainer side or go all out with toppings and condiments. No matter how December dresses up their cheeseburger, they cannot deny that the cheeseburger is the best part of the cookout. The rich flavors will leave December feeling completely satiated.
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1997 Was Defined by This No. 1 Smash—Which Almost Cost the Band Their Lead Singer
For millions of music fans, "Fly" was the soundtrack of late summer, 1997. For Mark McGrath, it was a song that almost made him quit Sugar Ray.
Sugar Ray began as a funk metal band. Their first LP, Lemonade and Brownies, leaned more toward the Red Hot Chili Peppers' style of music, a decidedly different direction than that of their most popular song.
So when it was time to craft a follow-up LP, Floored, the band, which had expanded its songwriting skills, began to explore other types of music. McGrath told Rock Cellar Magazine, "Setting up the next record, we said ‘listen, we have a bit of a foothold in the metal world, let’s concentrate on that, make some heavier stuff,' but at the same time we were getting better as songwriters."
"Fly" was written by Rodney Sheppard, Alan Shacklock, Mark McGrath, Super Cat, Murphy Karges, Stan Frazier and DJ Homicide (Sugar Ray). The reggae fusion song was a complete left turn from where the band was before Floored.
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McGrath said, "Fly kind of came out of nowhere. Our drummer had this sort of ethereal version of Fly that when I first heard it. I almost quit the band when I first heard it. It was the worst thing I had ever heard."
He continued, "But then a friend of mine, McG, who directs all our music videos and is now a big player in the Hollywood world, heard the song too. I told him I hated it, but he told me ‘just go back and give it another listen, see if you can structure it, make chords out of it or put verses to it.' So I went back and wrote some verses and the song started taking shape."
McGrath concluded, "It kind of took the whole group effort to make that happen with 'Fly,' and luckily we came back with 'Every Morning,' 'Someday,' and 'When It’s Over.' By then, we had carved ourselves a little niche with these acoustic songs with hip-hop backbeats."
Additionally, the singer told Rolling Stone, "I don’t want to sound premeditated, but 'Fly' is the blueprint now for experimentation. A lot of it we owe to David Kahne, who produced those records. He said, 'Let’s build songs around your voice,' and I said, 'That’s insane. We’re here to sell records.'"
"Fly" never hit the Billboard Top 10 despite its massive popularity. However, it did secure the top spot on the Billboard Hot 100 Airplay chart for four consecutive weeks.
While Mark McGrath's doubts about "Fly" nearly changed the band's future, their gamble ultimately paid off. Nearly three decades later, the song remains Sugar Ray's signature hit and one of the most enduring songs of the late 1990s.
Related: Forgotten '90s TV Show Left Behind One of Pop Music's Biggest Hits
1982 Rock Classic With One of the Greatest Drum Intros Ever Became a Grammy-Winning Hit
When Toto released "Rosanna" in 1982, it quickly became one of the biggest songs of the year. More than four decades later, it's remembered for something that happens before a single lyric is sung: Jeff Porcaro's legendary drum intro and on-going drum line in the song.
Recently, Ultimate Classic Rock ranked "Rosanna" No. 2 on its list of the 40 Greatest Drum Intros of All Time, placing it behind only Led Zeppelin's "Rock and Roll." Praising Porcaro's feel and precision, the publication wrote that his ghost notes "give the song's shuffling intro breath and swing," adding that his groove helped keep the Grammy-winning hit in the public consciousness for decades.
Related: The Greatest Guitar Solo You Can’t Hear Is Hidden in a 1980 Classic
The song certainly had the chart success to match its musical reputation. Released as the lead single from Toto IV, "Rosanna" spent five consecutive weeks at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100, blocked from the top spot by the Human League's "Don't You Want Me" and Survivor's "Eye of the Tiger." It went on to win the Grammy Award for Record of the Year in 1983 while also earning a nomination for Song of the Year.
Its commercial success was equally impressive. "Rosanna" spent a combined 59 weeks across Billboard's major charts, including 23 weeks on the Hot 100, 18 weeks on Adult Contemporary and 14 weeks on Mainstream Rock Airplay, making it one of Toto's signature recordings.
Related: 1982 Classic, ‘Detested’ by the Band, Became a Soft Rock Anthem
Music producer and session musician Rick Beato has called the opening groove "one of the most famous drum parts ever in a rock tune," noting that it immediately sets the song apart. He explained that Porcaro combined several classic rhythms into something entirely his own, blending Bernard Purdie's famous shuffle, John Bonham's beat from Led Zeppelin's "Fool in the Rain" and the Bo Diddley beat into the now-iconic pattern.
Porcaro himself often explained that the groove was inspired by several of his favorite drummers, but the finished result became so influential that musicians eventually gave it its own name: the "Rosanna Shuffle." Today, it remains one of the most studied and admired drum patterns in modern music.
Beato also pointed to the song's remarkable musicianship beyond the drums. He praised Steve Lukather's guitar work, Bobby Kimball's soaring vocals, David Paich's keyboard arrangements and the five-piece horn section, saying the layered production exemplified the precision of the elite Los Angeles session musicians who made up Toto.
Related: ’80s MTV Legend Announces Rare Reunion for 2026 Tour With A Ton of Special Guests
Written by David Paich, "Rosanna" was inspired not by one woman but by "numerous girls" he had known, although the band jokingly encouraged rumors that it was about actress Rosanna Arquette, who was dating keyboardist Steve Porcaro at the time. Arquette even played along, once quipping that the song was about her showing up at the band's recording sessions with "juice and beer."
From its unforgettable opening groove to its Grammy-winning production, "Rosanna" remains one of the defining rock songs of the 1980s. More than 40 years after its release, its drum intro is still inspiring musicians, proving that sometimes a song announces its greatness before the vocals even begin.
Related: Iconic '70s Rock Band Is Climbing the Charts Again 67 Years After Forming
What Are Sam's Club's 2026 Fourth of July Hours?
Fourth of July weekend is nearly here, which means you may be heading to your local Sam's Club for a last-minute supply run. Whether you're hosting a big celebration, setting off fireworks with the neighbors or simply stocking up on snacks and refreshments for the weekend, there's always something that gets missed during the holiday rush.
With just about everything you need behind Sam's Club's oversized warehouse doors, it's helpful to know whether you can count on the popular bulk retailer to have your back when you need it most. And if you'd rather not spend precious time racing against the clock, you might be wondering: Is Sam's Club open on Fourth of July?
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Is Sam's Club Open on Fourth of July?JRomero04 / Shutterstock.com
You never know when a quick supply run will come up, and it's always best to be ready when the moment calls. When it comes to places that provide everything you need under one roof, Sam's Club is up there as one of the most reliable around, whether you're picking up last-minute essentials or simply grabbing a few things you forgot.
Thankfully, Sam's Club will be open on Fourth of July, so you can rest easy knowing your favorite items will be available to shop no matter what.
Related: Checkers and Rally's Fourth of July Deal Has a Very Patriotic Price Tag
What Are Sam's Club's Fourth of July Hours?Because Fourth of July isn't one of the holidays Sam's Club closes for, your holiday is already set for success even if you end up short on supplies. Most locations are expected to operate during normal business hours, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., though hours may vary by location. On July 4, you can expect Sam's Club to be open as usual, making last-minute trips easy as long as you plan within that window.
Open on most holidays, except Christmas, Easter and New Year's Day, Sam's Club prioritizes customers' needs on some of the most important days of the year. But if you're still unsure about your local warehouse's hours, you can check the store locator page online for more information.
Otherwise, stay safe this holiday weekend, keep hydrated and enjoy the festivities!
Related: Sam's Club's Creamy and Fruity $10 Snack Is a Nostalgic Bite-Sized Obsession
8 Best Vacation Sandals for Women Over 50
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Packing shoes for vacation requires a bit more strategy than simply choosing your favorite pairs. The right sandals should be comfortable enough for long days of sightseeing, supportive enough to wear for hours and versatile enough to complement everything in your suitcase. For women over 50 especially, that often means finding styles that balance cushioning and stability with a polished look—because practical doesn't have to mean sacrificing style.
As someone who covers shopping and travel for outlets like Coveteur, Martha Stewart Weddings and Harper's Bazaar, I've tested countless shoes over the years. From supportive flats to comfortable wedges that add just the right amount of height, these vacation-ready sandals combine comfort and timeless style.
Related: A Minimalist Carry-On Capsule Wardrobe for Women Over 50
Anonymous Copenhagen Lain FlatsUS.AnonCPH.com
If you prefer a sandal with a little more coverage, these modern fisherman flats are an excellent choice. The closed-toe design offers added protection while still feeling breathable, making them ideal for long days of sightseeing. Crafted from soft leather with an adjustable ankle strap, they're comfortable enough to wear all day and versatile enough to pair with everything from linen dresses to tailored shorts.
Get it on US.AnonCPH.comRelated: 8 Best 'Comfy But Polished' Airport Shoes for Women Over 50
Vince Camuto Fainel Ankle Strap Espadrille Wedge Sandalszappos.com
A low wedge is one of the easiest ways to add a little height without sacrificing comfort. With a walkable 2.8-inch espadrille heel and supportive ankle strap, these sandals are comfortable enough for sightseeing yet dressy enough for evenings out. The metallic gold finish also adds just the right amount of interest while remaining surprisingly versatile.
Get it on Zappos.comNaturalizer 27 Edit Tuesday SandalsZappos.com
A comfortable evening sandal is always worth packing, and this pair gives both style and support. Featuring Naturalizer's Contour+ Comfort technology with built-in arch and heel cushioning, these sandals are designed for hours of wear without discomfort. Their sleek, minimalist silhouette makes them an easy choice for vacation dinners, weddings or any occasion that calls for a dressier shoe. The pop of color is also a nice touch!
Get it on Zappos.comRelated: A Minimalist Carry-On Packing List for Women Over 50
Franco Sarto Blair Toe Loop Round Toe Buckle Flat SandalsMacys.com
These elevated flat sandals strike the perfect balance between comfort and sophistication. The modern toe-loop design is more stylish than a basic sandal, making them easy to wear while exploring during the day before transitioning seamlessly to dinner in the evening.
Get it on Macys.comCOACH Jelly Slip-On SandalsMacys.com
Every vacation calls for an easy waterproof sandal, and these stylish jelly slides are a step above the typical flip-flop. Lightweight, flexible and easy to rinse clean, they're perfect for beach days, poolside afternoons or quick walks around your resort. The cushioned design also makes them comfortable enough to keep in your suitcase for everyday vacation wear.
Get it on Macys.com
Related: 8 Carry-On Essentials Every Over-60 Traveler Needs
Reformation.com
Available in several beautiful and striking colors, these flat sandals are an easy way to add personality to your vacation wardrobe. The supportive ankle strap helps keep your foot secure while walking, while the simple silhouette pairs effortlessly with everything from kaftans to linen sets. They're versatile enough to wear from sightseeing during the day to dinner by the water at night.
Related: Forget Leggings: 2 Celebrity Stylists Share the 7 Airport Outfits That Actually Look Polished
VIVAIA Round-Toe Walker SandalsVivaia.com
If you'll be doing a lot of walking, these were made with comfort in mind. Their lightweight construction, cushioned heel pillow and built-in arch support help minimize foot fatigue during long sightseeing days, while the breathable design keeps feet cool in warmer weather. The subtle platform also provides a little extra cushioning without feeling bulky.
Related: I Stopped Overpacking—These 9 Carry-On Items Fixed Everything
Macys.com

Love the ease of flip-flops but want a little more support? These T-strap sandals offer the same effortless look with the added security of an adjustable ankle strap. Comfortable enough for all-day wear yet polished enough to dress up, they're a versatile vacation staple you'll reach for whether you're strolling through a new city or heading to dinner.
Get it on Macys.com11 Best Hyaluronic Acid Serums To Plump and Hydrate Your Skin, Tested by Dermatologists
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Pronouncing skincare ingredients can sometimes feel like you're competing in a spelling bee or learning a foreign language. Alas, these complicated words are skilled at performing one very simple task: treating your complexion with the utmost TLC. In recent years, hyaluronic acid has become a highly popular part of the skincare vernacular and the ingredient has popped up in a plethora of products with one goal in mind: hydrating your skin. Serums are always a great way to insert moisture into your skincare routine, so Parade asked a few dermatologists to share their picks for the best hyaluronic acid serums to plump and hydrate your skin.
If you're new to this term, you likely have a few questions about what makes the ingredient so popular. Deciphering the pros and cons of various skincare ingredients is enough to make your head spin, so we asked the pros to share all the need-to-know details about hyaluronic acid.
We wanted to know how hyaluronic acid works, how it benefits skin and how to apply it correctly. Plus, we were curious about which other skincare ingredients pair best with it. Below, we've compiled a guide to everything you could ever want to know about this powerhouse skincare ingredient—including the best hyaluronic acid serums for mature skin, like options from The Ordinary, La Roche-Posay, SkinCeuticals and more.
Related: 7 Skincare Rules Women Over 50 Shouldn’t Ignore, According to Dermatologists
Top Hyaluronic Acid Serums- Best Hyaluronic Acid Serum Overall:SkinCeuticals HA Intensifier Multi-Glycan Multi-Dimensional Volumizing Serum
- Best Hyaluronic Acid Serum for Dry Skin: Clinique Moisture Surge Active Glow Serum
- Best Hyaluronic Acid Serum for Oily Skin: Bubble Water Slide Hydration Boosting Serum Hyaluronic Acid + Peptides
- Best Hyaluronic Acid Serum for Sensitive Skin:La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Hyaluronic Acid Serum
- Best Hyaluronic Acid Serum for Anti-Aging:L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives Hyaluronic Acid Face Serum
- Best Affordable Hyaluronic Acid Serum: The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Hydrating Serum with Ceramides
- Best Luxury Hyaluronic Acid Serum:goop 20% Vitamin C + Hyaluronic Acid Glow Serum
- Best Hyaluronic Acid Serum for Brightening: Vichy LiftActiv Supreme H.A. Wrinkle Corrector
- Best Hyaluronic Acid Serum for Combination Skin:Neutrogena Hydro Boost Purified Hyaluronic Acid Serum
- Best Hyaluronic Acid Serum Under Makeup: Avène Hydrance Boost Concentrated Hydrating Serum
- Best Fragrance-Free Hyaluronic Acid Serum: ERLY Daily Splash Hydrating Serum
In the simplest of terms, hyaluronic acid can be described as a humectant that "attracts moisture from its surroundings," per board-certified dermatologist Dr. Alicia Zalka, MD, FAAD.
"This makes it a sponge-like attractor that binds water molecules helping tissues, like the skin and eyes, stay hydrated. In fact, a large proportion of the body's natural hyaluronic acid is found in the skin. It is also found in joints, where it acts like a lubricant, allowing them to function friction-free," the founder of Surface Deep says.
Hallie McDonald, MD, FAAD, board-certified dermatologist and the co-founder of ERLY, says hyaluronic acid can hold "up to 1,000 times its weight in water."
What Are the Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid for Skin?Hyaluronic acid's job is to hydrate skin by attracting and retaining moisture.
"This can make skin appear smoother, plumper and more radiant. It can also help soften the look of fine lines caused by dehydration, support the skin barrier and improve overall skin texture," McDonald says.
Zalka adds that the ingredient can typically hold onto moisture "for hours," helping skin "stay hydrated long after application."
Related: A Dermatologist Swears by This ‘Creamy, Soft and Budget-Friendly’ Lip Balm for Dry Lips
How To Apply Hyaluronic Acid Serum CorrectlyWhen it comes to skincare ingredients, Zalka says hyaluronic acid is generally "very well-tolerated." Still, proceeding with caution is always smart if it's your first time using the ingredient.
"Whenever you try a new product, I advise my patients not to dive in head first. Apply a small amount on the wrist for two days. If there are no problems or reactions, it's then OK to move on to using it where you wish to up the hydration factor," she says, adding that hyaluronic acid can be used anywhere on the skin.
For the best results, McDonald recommends applying a hyaluronic acid serum to slightly damp skin after cleansing and before moisturizer.
"Hyaluronic acid works by attracting and holding water, so applying it to damp skin helps maximize hydration," she explains.
Afterwards, seal in the hydration with a moisturizer.
"Think of it as the meat in a sandwich between two pieces of bread. Those bread slices lock in the benefits gained from the hyaluronic acid application. Remember: Damp, dab, drench (apply to damp skin, use just a dab or two, then drench moisturizer over it)," Zalka says.
Lastly, if you're applying a hyaluronic acid serum during the daytime as opposed to at night, it's best to end your routine by applying SPF, per Zalka.
Related: ‘SPF Excellence Awards’: The 33 Best Sun-Protection Products for 2026
Can You Use Hyaluronic Acid Every Day?Certain skincare ingredients should only be used sparingly since they're somewhat harsh on skin. Luckily, hyaluronic acid isn't one of them.
"It’s gentle enough for twice-daily use and layers seamlessly under sunscreen, makeup or treatment products. Hyaluronic acid is famously gentle and non-irritating, making it safe for all ages and skin types, including sensitive, acne-prone and even post-procedure skin," McDonald tells Parade.
Related: The 12 Best Face Masks for Acne That Unclog and Transform Skin, Tested by Dermatologists
What Ingredients Should You Pair With Hyaluronic Acid?Some ingredients just work better together. When it comes to hyaluronic acid, McDonald says the multitasker plays nice with many ingredients, including vitamin C, retinol and niacinamide.
"Hyaluronic acid pairs well with most skincare ingredients and can help boost hydration while reducing dryness or irritation from stronger actives," she says.
Related: 11 Best Retinol Products for Sensitive Skin, According to Dermatologists
11 Best Hyaluronic Acid Serums To Plump and Hydrate Your SkinHere are the top products dermatologists recommend.
1. Best Hyaluronic Acid Serum Overall: SkinCeuticals HA Intensifier Multi-Glycan Multi-Dimensional Volumizing Serum, $120SkinCeuticals
Shop It at SkinCeuticalsIf you're serious about hydration, it's often worth splurging on a product with powerhouse ingredients. Zalka is a fan of this serum and calls the texture "luxurious."
"It feels great on the skin. It contains a high concentration of hyaluronic acid and the brand's proprietary post-biotic ferment to enhance the skin barrier function," she says.
The formula is free of parabens, fragrance and dyes and works quickly to plump and hydrate skin. Along the way, the serum also fills lines, tackles uneven skin tone and softens skin.
2. Best Hyaluronic Acid Serum for Dry Skin: Clinique Moisture Surge Active Glow Serum, $65Sephora
A "disrupted barrier function" plus "dullness and flaking" often accompany dry skin, per Zalka.
"This product tackles all of these symptoms with its combo ingredient powerhouse of hyaluronic acid, AHA and vitamin C," the derm says.
Zalka notes that the product offers "gentle exfoliation" and helps balance pH levels.
"This promotes other ingredients to better penetrate to deep layers, allowing hyaluronic acid to hydrate and vitamin C to brighten," she says.
3. Best Hyaluronic Acid Serum for Oily Skin: Bubble Water Slide Hydration Boosting Serum Hyaluronic Acid + Peptides, $17Ulta
Shop It at UltaWhen you have oily skin, the last thing you want is a product that enhances your complexion's oily tendencies. That's why Zalka adores this hydrating serum that won't leave skin feeling greasy.
"It’s lightweight, water-based and great for acne-prone or oily skin," she says.
Key ingredients include hydrating hyaluronic acid, repairing peptides and calming niacinamide. The serum performs a number of important tasks, including moisturizing, reducing redness and improving skin sensitivity.
4. Best Hyaluronic Acid Serum for Sensitive Skin: La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Hyaluronic Acid Serum, $39.99Dermstore
Shop It at DermstoreFinding a serum that won't upset your sensitive skin isn't always easy, but Zalka says this affordable find from La Roche-Posay is a worthy contender.
"I love that this has been allergy tested both dermatologically and ophthalmologically for skin and eye area use, respectively," she says.
Ideal for anti-aging, the serum is a pro at hydrating and plumping skin. It contains two types of pure hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5 plus glycerin to help skin absorb water. Even better? It can improve the appearance of fine lines.
Related: The One Thing Women Over 50 Don’t Realize About SPF, According to a Pro Makeup Artist
5. Best Hyaluronic Acid Serum for Anti-Aging: L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives Hyaluronic Acid Face Serum, $35.99Amazon
Shop It on AmazonMcDonald describes this anti-aging gem as a "lightweight serum that delivers intense hydration, helps plump skin and visibly smooths fine lines for more youthful skin."
The formula includes three molecular weights of hyaluronic acid, including macro hyaluronic acid to hydrate and seal in moisture, micro hyaluronic acid to plump skin and smooth texture and micro-epidermic hyaluronic acid to provide intense moisture.
6. Best Affordable Hyaluronic Acid Serum: The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 Hydrating Serum with Ceramides, $9.90Sephora
Shop It at SephoraZalka says she simply can't bestow enough praise on this next serum.
"I don't know how The Ordinary does it. They offer great active ingredients at affordable prices. Their hyaluronic acid serum does not disappoint and does not break the bank," she says.
The derm often recommends using hyaluronic acid as part of a well-rounded skincare routine, but recognizes that the "costs can add up" quickly. Luckily, you can mix and match serums without breaking your budget with this serum that features five forms of hyaluronic acid plus vitamin B5 and ceramides.
The lightweight formula is a true multitasker that hydrates and plumps skin as it tackles uneven texture and wrinkles.
Related: 11 Best Clean Moisturizers for Women Over 50, According to a Professional Makeup Artist
7. Best Luxury Hyaluronic Acid Serum: goop 20% Vitamin C + Hyaluronic Acid Glow Serum, $125Ulta
Shop It at UltaZalka is fond of this unique product that's formulated with three different molecular sizes of hyaluronic acid.
"This combo regimen tackles two important things that aging skin craves: plumping and brightening. It leaves the skin with a dewy, youthful glow," she says.
The set comes with a hyaluronic acid serum and vitamin C powder that get mixed together to create a versatile formula that brightens, tones, hydrates and firms skin.
8. Best Hyaluronic Acid Serum for Brightening: Vichy LiftActiv Supreme H.A. Wrinkle Corrector, $44.99Ulta
Shop It on AmazonIf your skin has been looking a bit dull lately, McDonald suggests giving this product a try.
"It's a nice hyaluronic acid serum that also has a vitamin C derivative for brightening," she says.
Together, the two ingredients work to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, plump and hydrate skin. Plus, vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that shields skin from environmental damage.
Related:11 Best Skin-Tightening Moisturizers, According to Celebrity Derms
9. Best Hyaluronic Acid Serum for Combination Skin: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Purified Hyaluronic Acid Serum, $19.70Amazon
Shop It on AmazonMcDonald says Neutrogena's hyaluronic acid serum is a "great inexpensive choice for combination skin."
The fragrance-free formula is non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic and quick to absorb, meaning it won't leave combination skin feeling greasy. Aside from hyaluronic acid, the formula also features glycerin and trehalose, two other hydrating ingredients.
10. Best Hyaluronic Acid Serum Under Makeup: Avène Hydrance Boost Concentrated Hydrating Serum, $42Ulta
Shop It at UltaA solid skincare routine is essential if you regularly apply makeup. For times when you want to swipe on a hyaluronic acid serum underneath your foundation or tinted moisturizer, McDonald says this one is a great option.
"It layers beautifully under makeup and won’t pill," she says.
In addition to hyaluronic acid, the serum is also formulated with vitamin B3 and thermal spring water. The three ingredients join forces to hydrate, plump, brighten and soothe skin.
11. Best Fragrance-Free Hyaluronic Acid Serum: ERLY Daily Splash Hydrating Serum, $38ERLY
Shop It at ERLYSearching for a hyaluronic acid serum that's free of fragrance? McDonald's next selection rings in at under $40.
"It has three forms of hyaluronic acid and leaves the skin feeling plump and bouncy," she says.
The lightweight, hypoallergenic serum works well with all skin types and is particularly well-suited for anyone who wants a multitasking product that tackles fine lines and dehydrated skin all at once.
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Sources:- Hallie McDonald, MD, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist and the co-founder of ERLY.
- Alicia Zalka, MD, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist, founder of Surface Deep and associate clinical professor of dermatology at Yale University School of Medicine.
Costco's Comfy New Portable Reading Desk Is Even More Useful Than You Think
When I dig into a good book, it's like the rest of the world falls away. But that isn't only because of the stellar writing of a great author; it's because when I read, I try to surround myself with cozy things. In order to adequately escape through those pages, I need to be comfortable, whether that's in a cloud-like chair or lazing around in bed.
Of course, sometimes I have to read when my seat is upright and my tray table is in a locked position, as the airlines might say. But, still, any chance I get to make my reading environment feel spa-like, I'm going to do my darndest to make it happen.
Casual Living Reading Desk with Removable Cover, $39.99 at CostcoCostco
Listen, I'm not going to lie—the Casual Living Reading Desk at Costco shown here conjured up memories of the breastfeeding pillow I used when my kids were first born. But while the overall shape might be the same, this is an entirely different configuration.
Whether you're settling in with a good book, answering emails from the couch, or spending an afternoon gaming, this backrest pillow is designed to make sitting up more comfortable. It features a contoured memory foam insert that provides supportive cushioning and helps you stay comfortably propped up. The soft knit polyester cover is removable and machine washable for easy care, and a handy side pocket gives you a spot to stash essentials like your phone, remote or reading glasses. It's also generously sized for everything from lounging in bed to relaxing on the sofa.
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But here's the thing—while it can prop you up, it can also work in reverse. Spin this cushion around, and you can use it to keep a laptop at a comfortable working height from a chair or bed.
Shoppers have mixed reviews of the reading desk, depending on their height and needs, but once many get their setup right, it seems to work like a charm.
"I purchased this desk for myself just the other week," says a Costco reviewer. "It's perfect! To ease my aching neck, I've been propping a basket on top of a decorative pillow to enable my book or laptop to be at the ergonomically proper eye level. This desk solves the problem perfectly and it also fully supports my forearms. It's great!"
Currently, this portable reading desk only comes in grey at Costco, but wouldn't it be amazing if it were offered in more colorways? Not to be totally selfish, but a pink or purple would be nice. Hint, hint.
Related: Target's New 2-Tier Fluted Organizing Tray Looks So High-End for Only $5
1972 Rock Hit Perfectly Fits a Rare Fourth of July Moment That Won’t Happen Again Until 2037
Some songs can feel like they’re specifically made for a moment, and sometimes, you’re lucky enough to experience real life lining up perfectly with the music.
That’s exactly what’s happening this year with “Saturday in the Park” by Chicago.
The 1972 rock classic feels more relevant than ever, as the song’s iconic opening line, “Saturday in the park, I think it was the Fourth of July,” takes on a new meaning with Independence Day falling on a Saturday this year.
And not just any Independence Day either, as this 4th of July marks America’s 250th birthday, the semiquincentennial event celebrating 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776.
It’s a rare alignment that gives the timeless tune an added layer of real-world relevance.
And it’s a moment that won’t come around again for quite some time. Because of how the calendar shifts each year due to leap years, the next Saturday Fourth of July won’t happen again for over a decade, or until 2037, to be specific.
This means it’s a uniquely fitting time for the song to resurface on your celebratory playlists and in rotation for any social media montages recapping your holiday memories.
One travel influencer, Emily Unscripted, paired the song with a patriotic video of a farm filled with hundreds of American flags waving in the wind, writing, “This is the last year until 2037 you can use this song on the correct day.”
“Had to use this song… because we won’t get another chance until 2037. 🇺🇸🎶❤️🤍💙” she captioned the photo.
View this post on InstagramFittingly, Chicago is set to perform at PBS’s A Capitol Fourth: 250th Weekend Celebration on July 3, 2026, as they did in 2023, bringing the lyrics full circle.
The track, written by Robert Lamm, was inspired by a real visit to Central Park. Watching crowds gather, celebrate, and enjoy a summer day helped shape one of the band’s most recognizable hits.
Upon its release, "Saturday in the Park" climbed to No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100, with the bright piano riff and vivid storytelling ensuring that it would become a timeless classic that still captures the energetic spirit of summer and long weekends decades later.
Best-Selling 2019 Classic Thriller Ranked a 'Most Read Book of the Year' According to Goodreads
Originally a screenwriter, author Alex Michaelides set out to write his first novel after feeling very disillusioned with the film industry. Michaelides said, "I was feeling very disillusioned as a screenwriter. I kept seeing scripts being mangled in the production and this sense of frustration made me decide to sit down and finally write a novel."
Inspired by the psychiatric hospital he worked in while in school as a psychotherapy student, Michaelides set out to write a retelling of the Athenian tragedy, Alcestis, with elements and an ambiance like Agatha Christie novels. After more than 50 revisions, Michaelides published his debut novel, The Silent Patient.
The Silent Patient was a hit upon release, and became a number oneNew York Times bestseller the first week of its publication. The book went on to be the bestselling hardback of 2019. In the seven years since its release, The Silent Patient has remained immensely popular and has sold more than 12 million copies worldwide.
Readers are still gravitating towards The Silent Patient, so much so that it's currently ranked as one of the "Most Read Books of 2026" according to Goodreads. This year alone readers have shelved the title on the app more than 300,000 times.
View this post on InstagramThe Silent Patientfollows forensic psychotherapist Theo Faber who becomes obsessed with uncovering the truth behind the murder of Gabriel Berenson, who was killed by his wife, Alicia. Alicia, a former famous painter, has not spoken a word since shooting her husband five times and is a patient in a closed facility. Declared criminally insane, Alicia is believed to be beyond rehabilitation, but Theo attempts to find a breakthrough and discover what drove Alicia to upend her seemingly perfect, happy life.
Production companies Annapurna and Plan B, founded in part by Brad Pitt, secured the rights to adapt The Silent Patient into a film. Few other details about the upcoming movie version have been released.
The Silent Patient and other novels by Alex Michaelides are available wherever books are sold.
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Will Planet Fitness Open on Fourth of July This Year?
Whether the Fourth of July means a swim in the lake, a neighborhood parade or an afternoon barbecue, many people like to fit in a workout before the day's festivities begin. If that's part of your holiday tradition, you may be wondering: Is Planet Fitness open on the Fourth of July?
Before grabbing your gym bag, it's worth checking ahead. While many businesses adjust their schedules for Independence Day, holiday hours can vary from one location to another. Knowing Planet Fitness's Fourth of July hours ahead of time helps you plan your workout and avoid showing up to find the doors locked.
Here's what members should know before heading to the gym on July 4, 2026.
Is Planet Fitness Open on the Fourth of July?gg5795 / Shutterstock.com
Yes, most Planet Fitness locations are expected to be open on the Fourth of July this year, although many clubs have modified holiday hours. Unlike Thanksgiving and Christmas, when closures are more common, Independence Day is typically a day when members can still squeeze in a gym workout.
Planet Fitness clubs are independently owned and operated, so exact schedules vary by location. Some gyms may open at their usual morning time, around 5 a.m., but close earlier in the day, around 5 p.m., so that employees can enjoy the holiday. The easiest way to confirm your local club's schedule is to use the Planet Fitness Club Finder or call your gym directly before visiting.
Related: What Happens to Your Body When You Lift Weights Every Day?
What are Planet Fitness's Fourth of July Hours?Planet Fitness's Fourth of July hours vary by location, but many clubs operate on reduced holiday schedules. Some locations may open as early as 5 a.m. before closing in the late afternoon or early evening, while others may follow modified weekend hours.
If you're hoping to get a workout in before holiday cookouts, fireworks or time with family and friends, planning an earlier visit is usually your best bet.
Many members appreciate Planet Fitness for its convenience. It's a budget-friendly gym that's known for its welcoming "Judgment Free Zone" atmosphere, beginner-friendly approach and wide selection of cardio and strength-training equipment, making it an easy stop before a busy day of celebrations.
Since hours differ by franchise, it's always smart to verify your local club's holiday schedule before leaving home. A quick check can help ensure you stay on track with your fitness routine while still making the most of your Fourth of July plans.
Related: 5 Oblique-Firing Pilates Moves Instructors Never Skip
People Who Watch ‘Love Island’ Every Day Share This 1 Surprising Trait, Psychologist Says
If the phrases “Can I pull you for a chat?” or “Soul Ties is crazy,” elicit a strong response in you, then you might be an avid Love Islandwatcher (specifically Love Island USA). What was once a powerhouse reality TV show just in the UK has expanded to the United States and grown immensely over the last two years here. Now, Love Island USA is a reality TV staple in America and has overshadowed Love Island UK a bit in terms of viewership and cultural relevance, per the Mirror UK.
I have been a Love Island viewer since about 2019, starting with Season 6 and then bingeing the iconic Season 5 (arguably the best season of Love Island ever) soon after. So I have a soft spot for Love Island UK, as most people who started with the original series probably do. It gave us the well-known Love Island staples like Movie Night, recouplings, boys making breakfast and Casa Amor. It also bestowed iconic sayings upon us that even the USA version uses, such as “early days,” “my type on paper” and the iconic “I’ve got a text!” (though “fanny flutters” has not caught on like I had hoped it would).
I watched a couple of early Love Island USA seasons—including Love Island USA Season 2, the COVID season that premiered in August 2020 and took place on the rooftop of a Las Vegas hotel, which is now The Vanderpump Hotel Las Vegas. Small (reality TV) world? However, Love Island USA experienced a resurgence in Season 6 thanks to Peacock, Ariana Madix as the new host and the wildly entertaining cast; I have been hooked since. Interestingly, I’ve fallen off Love Island UK since that switch too, and that seems to be the trend.
Regardless, Season 8 of Love Island USA is currently underway and as tumultuous and juicy as you’d hope a Love Island season would be. Casa Amor ended with hurt feelings (per usual), Megan Thee Stallion recently hosted a Marie Antoinette and cake-themed challenge and we just witnessed maybe one of the wildest instances of a compulsive liar on Movie Night.
If you’re someone who absolutely loves to watch Love Island almost every night of the week, you might share some characteristics with fellow viewers (including one that might surprise you!).
To help us dive into the psychology of Love Island, Dr. Monica O'Neal—a clinical psychologist, relationship expert and lecturer at Harvard Medical School, who is also a major fan of the series—shares why it's so different than other reality TV shows and common traits of people who watch Love Islandevery day it’s on. Plus, when does your love for the series turn problematic?
Related: Psychologist Says That People Who Rewatch the Same TV Show Over and Over Again Have These 7 Traits
Do ‘Love Island’ Episodes Actually Come Out Every Day?If you’ve never watched Love Island, you probably did a double-take when we wrote that the show comes out “almost every night” of the week above. That can’t possibly be true, you might be thinking to yourself. Well, dear reader, it is true.
Love Island USA airs a new episode every night of the week except on Wednesday nights. And on Saturday night, they air a talk show called Aftersun, hosted by Ciara Miller and Tefi Pessoa, which is a recap of the week’s highlights and features interviews with islanders who have been eliminated since the Saturday before.
So yes, people who love watching this show are sat six nights out of the week, thanks to the fact that Aftersun is so entertaining this year.
Related: Psychologists Say People Who Have ‘Absolutely No Filter’ Likely Have These 7 Traits
Why ‘Love Island’ Is So Different Than Other Reality TV ShowsI am an avid reality TV show watcher in general and have been since at least middle school. I started with Discovery Kids’ show Endurance, found MTV’s True Life in high school and fell in love with Jersey Shore around the same time (for better or worse). I now can’t get enough of Vanderpump Rules and Housewives franchises like the new Real Housewives of Rhode Island.
But with that said, Love Island is just so different than anything else on TV, except for maybe Big Brother. I like to joke that it’s like a government-mandated daily TV show, but it’s more so like a social experiment we’re watching in real-time. So sure, it’s a dating competition show, but it feels way different than others in that genre.
“Television has always served a psychological function. It is a form of art, and art has always been a container for the parts of ourselves we cannot easily express in everyday life,” Dr. O’Neal tells Parade. “Reality TV, at its best, gives us permission to escape into a world of epic romances, petty entanglements and the guilty pleasure of watching self-obsessed villains operate without consequence.”
And while that used to be enough, she does point to a shift in real life in the past three or so years.
“The real world has become so chaotic that ordinary reality TV no longer offers a sufficient escape,” she states.
She adds that she thinks that what is happening around us is so chaotic—globally, economically, politically—that produced drama and chaos on TV just doesn’t cut it anymore in terms of taking our attention away from the noise. However, the reason Love Island USA, specifically, works is because it’s different than other reality television shows, as mentioned above.
Audience empowerment“What Love Island does differently is structural,” Dr. O’Neal explains. “It makes the audience feel empowered. The daily format creates intimacy and investment. The games, the voting, the public recouplings: all of it gives viewers a sense of agency that the real world, right now, simply does not offer.”
While we might not feel like our votes matter in the real world or like we don’t have agency in the wake of global conflicts and financial markets in freefall, this show “inverts that,” she says.
“We feel like insiders. We feel like what we think matters, and in many ways, it does,” she continues. “You can see audience sentiment show up in the voiceovers, in the game prompts, in who gets voted out.”
But it’s not all cynical and a result of our Hunger Games-level desire to salivate at reality TV that makes us feel like we’re involved. No, there’s still an innate human aspect people love about Love Island that makes it work.
Earnestness at its coreAs Dr. O’Neal explains, one thing that sets Love Island apart from other shows “is a certain earnestness at its core.”
“Yes, it is heavily produced. Yes, there is strategy and alliance-building. But the thing that feels most real, the thing that keeps me watching, is that people's desire to fall in love is genuine,” she states. “The vulnerability of getting attached, the fear of rejection, the social pressure of navigating intimacy in a fishbowl: that is not manufactured. That is just human.”
Low stakes enjoyment“Underneath all of it, people still want to watch young love bloom,” Dr. O’Neal tells Parade. “They want to see conflict resolved by the next morning, or failing that, worked out on a blow-up jousting field. The stakes are refreshingly low. Love Island gives us a world where connection is still possible, where rejection is survivable, and where the messiness of intimacy can be observed, discussed and enjoyed six nights a week.”
Spinoff successDr. O’Neal says that she likes to think of the “Love Island Universe” kind of like the “Marvel Cinematic Universe,” in that they both have a devoted audience, but their hold on pop culture might “wax and wane over time.” They have even created different spinoffs such as Love Island Games and Love Island All Stars, to keep people interested in new formats, similar to what The Bachelor franchise has done.
“Either way, what Love Island has proven is that the appetite for watching people try, awkwardly, earnestly, sometimes disastrously, to fall in love is not going anywhere,” she states. “That instinct is as old as storytelling itself. Love Island just figured out how to put it in a villa and stream it six nights a week.”
Related: Psychologist Says if You Make Pros-and-Cons Lists for Everything, You Likely Have These 8 Traits
The Psychology Behind Liking ‘Love Island'In addition to the Peacock show being an actual escape from real life, Dr. O’Neal says that when it comes to the psychological reasons behind why people like Love Island, “at its most basic,” people love (young) love.
“We love watching attractive young people navigate the same relational dynamics that the rest of us navigate every day: rejection, in-group and out-group pressure, social comparison, conflict and attachment,” she tells Parade. “Being able to witness all of that from the comfort of our sofas makes it feel safe. We get the emotional highs and lows without the personal risk.”
And not just that, but the fact that we get to watch conventionally attractive people fail at love is also a huge reason people tune in. Dr. O’Neal calls it “quietly satisfying.”
“The person who has never been rejected suddenly has to contend with being a seven in a villa full of 10s,” she states. “We enjoy that. It's the schadenfreude of it all!”
Essentially, though, at the core of the psychology behind enjoying Love Island is caring about something that is ultimately insignificant to our well-being.
“But more than anything, I think we watch because Love Island gives us permission to care about something relatively low-stakes in a world that feels relentlessly high-stakes,” she shares. “It mirrors our own relational experiences closely enough to feel meaningful, but it is contained enough to feel safe.”
The Surprising Trait Shared by People Who Watch 'Love Island' Every Day, According to a PsychologistIt might surprise you to hear that Dr. O’Neal says people who love Love Island typically have "social connectedness," explaining it as having “some social pull… even if they are introverts.”
Even if you watch the show solo, and typically keep to yourself, you likely seek out the opinions of other viewers—whether asking your IRL friends, or scrolling through social media to see what others are saying.
“Part of what the show does is make you want to talk about it,” Dr. O'Neal explains. “Whether that means texting a friend during the episode, getting online and following recaps or making your own content about it, watching Love Island almost always becomes a communal act in some form. That social instinct is probably the most consistent trait I see.”
She adds that those who watch this show, especially those who keep up with it in real-time, “tend to have a genuine pull toward community.” If you’ve been on X (formerly Twitter) or Threads at all over the last few weeks, you probably noticed so many people chattering about this series. That’s because, even if you have people in real life who you can talk about the show with, there’s this desire to open your circle up even more and join in their conversations about it as well.
“The show is not really designed to be experienced alone,” Dr. O’Neal states.
4 More Traits of People Who Watch ‘Love Island’ Every DaySocial connectedness isn't all! Here, Dr. O'Neal reveals four more common traits shared by Love Island viewers.
1. Anthropological curiosityAs I mentioned up top, one of the things I really love about the show is how fascinating it is to view this social experiment in real-time. And “anthropological curiosity” is common among Love Island viewers.
“To willingly watch 10 to 12 people live out their relational lives in a fishbowl, you have to be genuinely curious about human nature,” Dr. O’Neal says. “How do people form attachments under pressure? How do they navigate conflict, jealousy and social belonging when the stakes feel both enormous and completely manufactured? Avid Love Island viewers tend to find those questions inherently fascinating, even when they cannot articulate why.”
2. The ability to appreciate the absurd without over-investingSuch is the case with many reality TV shows, but to actually get into Love Island and enjoy it, you have to have a little whimsy and be okay with a bit of silliness (especially when it comes to the challenges).
“Enjoying Love Island requires a certain lightness,” Dr. O’Neal shares. “Without it, you either become relentlessly critical of what you are watching, or you tip into something more concerning: a parasocial relationship that has lost its boundaries.”
Related: 11 People Who Could Host ‘Survivor’ After Jeff Probst
3. Comfort with parasocial attachment“And yet, on the other side of that same coin, avid Love Island viewers also have to be people who can genuinely enjoy a parasocial relationship when it is functioning the way it is supposed to,” Dr. O’Neal adds as a continuation of her points in #2. “We know we do not personally know any of these islanders. But over the course of two months, we root for them, worry about them and feel real emotional investment in how things turn out for them.”
While the concept of “parasocial relationships” is usually talked about negatively, the psychologist points out that there is actually a “healthy version” of this, and that’s the version that people who love watching Love Island possess. She equates this iteration as “something like being a sports fan.”
“You know you are not on the field, but in the middle of the match, you are fully in it emotionally,” she explains. “Love Island viewers develop their teams, their favorites, their allegiances. The ability to hold both truths at once, ‘I do not know this person’ and ‘I am genuinely cheering for them,’ is part of what makes the viewing experience so rich.”
4. A sense of humor and an appreciation for collective creativitySort of similar to being open to absurdity in reality TV, Love Island viewers also tend to have a fantastic sense of humor. And if you’ve seen any TikTok or X/Twitter content about this season, you know what we’re talking about.
“Love Island audiences produce some of the funniest, most inventive content of any fan community I have encountered,” Dr. O’Neal says. “The memes, the Threads conversations, the recaps… some of it is genuinely brilliant.”
She shares that one of her “personal favorites to come out of this current season” is an emoji sticker “that a graphic artist created from Kenzie’s now-iconic smile.”
“Every time I drop it into a group chat while watching, I laugh,” she continues. “What I love about it is that the artist took something ridiculous and over-the-top and turned it into something joyful and lasting, rather than just using it to roast her. That kind of humor, affectionate and absurdist rather than mean-spirited, is very much in the spirit of what makes the Love Island audience so fun to be a part of.”
When Can It Become a Problem To Watch ‘Love Island’ 6 Days a Week?Sometimes, there can be some troublesome aspects of being too invested in Love Island (though that can be the case with any reality television series).
When viewers become hostileToxic parasocial attachments can become an issue for some viewers.
“We saw what happens when that line gets crossed during Season 7, with Huda Mustafa,” she states. “A segment of her fan base stopped experiencing the show as a fun escape and became so deeply invested in their connection to her that their commentary turned hostile, particularly toward the Black women in the villa.”
Dr. O’Neal explains that the hostility “did not stay contained to the season,” but instead “lingered” after filming and even forced Peacock to issue statements to the public while it was airing. She also points out that the network had to change up their social media policies for this current season, taking away the tradition passed down from the UK seasons of a close family member or friend becoming a sort of "spokesperson" or campaign manager for each Islander in the outside world via the contestants' personal Instagram accounts.
“That is what losing the ability to hold the show lightly can actually look like in practice,” Dr. O’Neal points out. “It stops being entertainment and starts being something else entirely.”
When other responsibilities are deprioritizedDr. O’Neal also shares that watching Love Island six days a week (including Aftersun) can become problematic “when it starts displacing things that matter more.”
“If you are missing sleep consistently, showing up late to work or choosing the show over meaningful time with your family or children, those are real flags worth paying attention to,” she states. “I will admit that my partner and I shifted our anniversary dinner to a Wednesday this year specifically because he knows I do not want to miss a Thursday episode, and I recognize how that sounds. But the following week, when we had dinner plans with friends on a Friday, we kept them and I watched later. Context matters. One accommodation is a quirk. A pattern of displacement is something else.”
I can absolutely relate to this too. A couple of summers ago—during Love Island USA's legendary Season 6—my partner and I went on a weekend vacation with their family, and we made sure to make time at the end of our night to watch each new episode so we didn’t fall behind. This proved to be the correct decision because it just so happened to be the iconic moment when Andrea got voted off, followed by Rob’s crash-out heard around the world (you know the one: it gave us Leah Kateb's "And now, you're sending three home" line). However, if there was an outing planned, we didn’t choose the show over that.
When it impacts self-esteemAnother point in which a person’s love for Love Island becomes a problem is when self-image gets tainted. Dr. O’Neal brings up research out of England that is now called “The Love Island Effect,” per NBC News.
Back in 2018, before this impact had a label, Nuffield Council on Bioethics reported multiple studies that showed that Love Island UK and its advertisements caused an uptick in cosmetic procedures. One Irish clinic reported a 200% uptick in lip fillers attributed to the show, and a Birmingham cosmetic surgeon shared that more young women were coming in near the last few weeks of the series being on air. While we live in a world where Instagram ads prey on teenage girls and any reality TV show can influence women to have bigger lips or breasts, this “Love Island Effect” seems to prove itself year after year, specifically in the UK where the series tends to feature women who have more noticeable cosmetic changes in the face.
“That finding has stayed with me,” Dr. O’Neal tells Parade. “If watching the show is quietly reorganizing how you evaluate your own attractiveness or worth, that is worth examining. The show is not causing that in isolation; it is tapping into something that already exists in the culture, but it can amplify it.”
Final TakeawaysAt the end of the day, Love Island, in any iteration, is a low-stakes, fun watch that has so many people hooked. Whether you’ve been watching for years like Dr. O’Neal and me, or you just started, it’s an immersive series that can become addictive, but can also be an insanely entertaining summer tradition. Only when it disrupts your actual reality is it an issue.
“Enjoy the show,” Dr. O’Neal advises. “Let it be fun. Just notice if it stops being fun.”
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Related: Psychologists Say if You Love Reality TV, You Likely Have These 9 Traits
Source:- Dr. Monica O'Neal is a clinical psychologist, relationship expert and lecturer at Harvard Medical School. You can follow her on Instagram @dr.monica and @ifiwereyourtherapist, and @thedrmonica on TikTok.
Can I Shop at Publix This Fourth of July?
Fourth of Julycelebrations are so synonymous with backyard parties and barbecues, it's almost impossible to picture the holiday without a table full of sides, buns of different varieties and, of course, burgers and hot dogs. But every so often ingredients fall through the cracks of your shopping list, and a day-of grocery run is inevitable. If you live in the South, you're probably wondering, "Is Publix open on Fourth of July?"
Because while you may not be ordering your go-to Pub Sub on July 4, Publix is still packed with all of the grilling accoutrements you need to celebrate America's 250th birthday. Here's what to know before you head out to the store.
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Is Publix Open on Fourth of July? View this post on InstagramYes, Publix is open on the Fourth of July for all your celebratory needs, from hamburger fixings to beverages and paper plates.
The store's pharmacy, however, will not be open on Saturday, July 4, so make sure you pick up any necessary medications you need ahead of the holiday. Otherwise, you'll have to wait until Sunday, July 5, to pick up any prescriptions, so it's a good idea to plan ahead.
Related: Aldi Is Selling the Prettiest Purple Cookware in a Versatile 3-Piece Set
What Are Publix's Fourth of July Hours?Publix's Fourth of July hours are the same as on any other day: 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. (This is, of course, with the exception of the pharmacy.) However, if you want to order Publix catering for your party, you need to do so ahead of time, as the store likely won't be able to accommodate an order on July 4 itself.
Most sandwich platters, cakes and desserts can be ready within 24 hours of placing the order with the deli or bakery, but others, like Publix Deli Smoked Pork Meal or Fried Chicken Meal for 24, need to be ordered at least two days in advance. So if you're hoping to take some prep work off your plate for the holiday by having someone else handle the cooking, you'll need to be on top of it.
You can find Publix stores across eight different states, including Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia.
One of Disney's Most Popular Coasters Is Shutting Down Until 2027
If you have a trip to Disneyland Paris on your horizon, you’ll want to take a close look at your itinerary. One of the resort’s most high-profile attractions is gearing up for a massive, multi-month hiatus that will take it out of commission straight into next year.
According to travel expert and Disney blogger Tom Bricker of Disney Tourist Blog,Crush’s Coaster at Disney Adventure World is scheduled to close for an extensive technical refurbishment starting September 7, 2026, with the closure lasting until Summer 2027.
The 10-month project will mark the most significant overhaul the Finding Nemo-themed spinning coaster has seen since it first opened nearly twenty years ago.
Related: 10 Things You Can't Miss at the Brand-New Disney Adventure World
View this post on InstagramAccording to details shared by Disney and reported by Bricker, the massive undertaking is being handled by a collaborative team that includes Walt Disney Imagineering Paris, Disneyland Paris Central Workshops, and external contractors.
The massive project will unfold in two main chapters. First, crews are going to completely strip down and replace the ride's core technical backbone, swapping out everything from the control systems and sensors to actual sections of the physical track.
After that, the final months of the closure will be entirely dedicated to rigorous safety testing and technical validation to make sure everything runs seamlessly before the first guests climb back on board.
How Disney World Quietly Overhauls Iconic Rides Overnight—And What's Next
"Beyond the technical improvements, this refurbishment will also provide an opportunity to care for the show elements of Crush’s Coaster," Bricker notes, adding that teams will be cleaning, repainting and repairing the attraction's various scenic components to preserve the visual experience.
While the ride's lengthy absence will certainly impact park capacity over the winter and spring seasons, the goal of the refurbishment is to ensure the coaster's reliability and guest comfort for years to come.
If you are planning to visit Disney Adventure World over the next year, you'll want to adjust your strategy accordingly. Tickets and real-time operational updates remain available via the official Disneyland Paris app, but for now, make sure to cross the East Australian Current off your late-2026 and early-2027 travel lists.
Related: Disneyland Paris Suspends Outdoor Attractions Amid Historic Heat Wave This Week
Walmart's 'Vibrant' $32 Botanical Outdoor Rug Brightens Up Any Patio and Comes in 4 Tropical Prints
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Finding the right outdoor rug can completely transform your patio, balcony, or backyard into a cozy, inviting retreat. Whether you're looking to create a soft spot for bare feet, define your outdoor dining space, or add a pop of style to your next camping trip, a great rug can make all the difference.
Walmart's Deorab Lightweight Waterproof Patio Rug is making waves for doing all that and more — at a price that's hard to beat. Regularly priced as high as $50, this "vibrant" outdoor rug is now as low as $32 in the 5-by-3-foot size. It has been winning over outdoor enthusiasts and homebodies alike for its cozy feel, durable build, and breezy style.
Deorab Lightweight Waterproof Patio Rug, From $32 (was $50) at Walmart Shop at WalmartThis rug makes outdoor living feel just as comfy as your favorite indoor space. Made from eco-friendly recycled plastic, it's gentle underfoot, with no scratchy or stiff texture. At the same time, it’s still tough enough to handle muddy shoes, rainy days, and the hustle and bustle of backyard fun. The nine leafy, nature-inspired patterns add a touch of natural elegance to any space, and the rug's fully reversible design gives you two stylish looks in one.
With size options ranging from a cozy 5 by 8 feet to a grand 10 by 14 feet, each rug is big enough to pull together a seating area or define your picnic spot, yet lightweight enough to fold up and take anywhere. It even comes with a handy carry bag, so bringing it along to the park, beach, or campsite is a breeze. Setup is simple, as four ground stakes and secure corner rings keep the rug in place, even on windy days or during energetic gatherings.
One of the best features of the Deorab rug is how simple it is to keep clean. The tightly woven plastic surface repels stains, resists moisture, and allows water to drain quickly, so spills and splashes are never a big deal. Hose it off or wipe it down, and it's ready for your next outdoor adventure. The UV protection helps keep the colors bright, while reinforced edges prevent fraying and keep the rug looking sharp all season long.
Fans loved how soft it feels under bare feet, making it perfect for everything from morning coffee on the deck to barefoot summer evenings in the backyard. It's gentle on grass and safe to use on a variety of surfaces. Folding may cause a few creases at first, but a little time with something heavy on top will have it looking smooth in no time.
"Happy camper," one shopper said. "It matched perfectly for my front porch chairs and table. Love the look."
"They are a nice weight, great color and easy to clean," another shopper said. "I use my leaf blower to clear larger debris and follow up with my hose nozzle. Since I have a large dog running in and out, I needed an item that would clean quickly and dry."
Related: Dolly Parton's 'Pretty' $14 Scalloped Stoneware Pie Dish Radiates Country Kitchen Charm
For as low as $32, this lightweight Deorab patio rug is a small investment with big style and comfort payoffs. Spruce up your patio, take it camping, or create a cozy spot for family gatherings. This rug is ready to roll out wherever you need a little extra softness and style.
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These Are Home Depot's Fourth of July Hours
You can't really get more American than a good, old-fashioned Saturday morning or afternoon visit to Home Depot, especially if you can snag a Home Depot hot dog while you are there (if you know, you know). And with the Fourth of July fast approaching, you might be planning a shopping trip to the hardware store to snag any last-minute grilling supplies or to pick up anything you need for a house project over the long holiday weekend. But is Home Depot open on July 4? If the retailer will keep its doors open on Independence Day, what are the store hours? And is there anything else you need to know before you head out?
We have you covered with all of the answers. Here is everything you need to know about shopping at Home Depot on the Fourth of July, including store hours, sales information and more.
Is Home Depot Open on Fourth of July?From grilling supplies and patio furniture to plants and DIY project necessities, if you need to head to Home Depot for any reason this Saturday on the Fourth of July, you will be happy to hear that the retailer will be open on Independence Day in 2026. In fact, you might want to consider taking a quick trip either way; Home Depot is having a massive Fourth of July sale with markdowns across various categories including outdoor power equipment, tools, appliances, grills and patio furniture.
Related: Patriotic Brownie Stars Are Here To Win the 4th of July Dessert Table
What Are Home Depot's Fourth of July Hours?If you want to hit up Home Depot on the Fourth for any last-minute barbecue supplies or to take advantage of the sales, you can expect adjusted hours to commemorate the holiday. While stores will open at their usual time on Independence Day, most Home Depot locations will close early at 8 p.m. You can check your Home Depot's specific holiday hours by visiting its store locator tool on its website.
Have a safe and happy Fourth of July! Stay cool!
Related: The Famous Voice Behind Home Depot Ads Is Finally Revealed—and Fans Definitely Know Him
'80s Metal Band Mourns a Heavy Loss: ‘We Deeply Appreciate All That He Has Done for Us’
Metallica is mourning a heavy loss this week.
In an Instagram post made on July 1, the ‘80s metal group announced that a member of their touring team since 2014, Steve Powell, passed away on Monday. Powell served as the band’s truck driver.
“Steve loved his job and will be sorely missed by the entire Metallica camp,” Metallica posted. “We want to offer our condolences to his family and friends, and deeply appreciate all that he has done for us. R.I.P. Steve.”
Fans quickly took to Metallica’s comment section to express their condolences to the band and Powell’s family and friends.
“Thank you for always having Metallica where they needed to be with all their equipment,” a fan commented. “Without Truckers this world would fall apart.”
“Thank you for helping us fans see the band we love,” one user said. “The Metallica family lost a good one.”
“Everyone on the team is as important as the guys playing,” another said.
“REST IN POWER KING,” a user said. “He did one of the biggest jobs a band has, logistics.”
Metallica is currently on their M72 World Tour, playing in cities like Dublin, London and Las Vegas. The tour has featured the band’s iconic Repeat Weekend tradition, receiving two consecutive shows with unique set lists.
Lars Ulrich, Metallica’s drummer and co-founder of the band, reflected in 2023 how he’s grateful to still be touring and making music with the group all these years later.
“As a believer in a type of music and as a fan of a type of music and as a proponent of a type of music, it makes me proud that it’s still happening at this level,” Ulrich said.
Tickets for Metallica’s world tour are available on Metallica.com. You can pass along your condolences to the band and Powell’s family and friends on social media.
Here's When You Can Shop at Costco on Fourth of July This Year
If your Fourth of July plans include firing up the grill, filling coolers with drinks and stocking up on snacks, you may want to make your Costco trip sooner rather than later. The holiday weekend is one of the busiest shopping times of the summer, and waiting until the last minute could leave you scrambling.
Whether you're hosting family, heading to a neighborhood cookout or packing for a weekend getaway, knowing store hours ahead of time can save you an unnecessary trip.
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Is Costco Open on Fourth of July 2026?Costco warehouses across the United States will be closed on Friday, July 4, in observance of Independence Day. The warehouse retailer is known for closing on a handful of major holidays each year, giving employees the opportunity to celebrate with family and friends.
That means shoppers should plan to stock up on everything they need before the holiday arrives.
Related: The One Simple Home Item That Makes Staying Organized Much Easier
Best Times to Shop at Costco Before the HolidayIf you're picking up burgers, hot dogs, chips, drinks, desserts or those oversized party platters Costco is known for, it's a good idea to shop a day or two before July 4.
Keep in mind that the days leading up to Independence Day are typically some of the busiest of the season, so expect heavier crowds, longer checkout lines and popular summer items selling quickly.
When Does Costco Reopen After July 4?Costco will resume its normal warehouse operating hours after the holiday. Individual warehouse hours can vary by location, so shoppers should check with their local store before heading out.
Related: Costco's 15-Piece Steel Knife Set Is Sleek, Durable and Makes Cutting Food Effortless
What Are Target's 2026 Fourth of July Hours?
For an occasion as monumental as America's 250th birthday, this year's Fourth of July festivities have got to live up to the hype. We're talking star-spangled everything, an endless supply of sparklers and, of course, a dizzying display of fireworks set off the moment the sun sets on the horizon. No pressure. But before we can focus on all the dazzling visual effects, the most important detail to nail down is the food. Sure, we could just toss a few burgers on the grill and call it a day, but why not kick things up a notch by making a three-tier tower of brats or a massive, patriotic-inspired dot cake?
Never mind the fact that we're cutting it close with just a day or so to pull everything together; much like the country, we're resilient. That being said, it's probably a good idea to double-check Target's Fourth of July hours just in case you're up against the clock and need to grab a few last-minute ingredients. Whether you forgot the ketchup and mustard or your potato salad needs a little something extra, Target's got you covered.
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Is Target Open on Fourth of JulyWhatever breathtaking, edible Americana-themed masterpiece you decide to throw together, Target has everything you need, from high-quality ingredients to gorgeous dishes and serveware fit for the moment. You might even find a few items you can zhuzh up to give the illusion that you made them yourself — we promise not to tell. And luckily, if things are coming down to the wire, most Target stores will be open during normal business hours on the Fourth of July. That means you'll have plenty of time to let your red, white and blue Jell-O mold set, and you might even be able to try your hand at making Martha Stewart's all-time favorite turkey burgers.
Related: 8 'Shark Tank' Products at Target That Are Actually Worth the Money
What Are Target's Fourth of July Hours?As for Target's hours on the Fourth, most locations will be open from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. That means you can grab all your last-minute items to celebrate America's birthday in style and still have time to put the finishing touches on your crowd-pleasing sheet-tray nachos that take up an entire table. Regardless, you might want to triple-check your local stores' hours before you set your sights on Target, in case they decide to close early. It's also worth noting that the pharmacy may be closed for the holiday.
Fortunately, there's still plenty of time to toss together a Fourth of July celebration worthy of marking the country's 250th birthday. Just make sure to save us a brat or two! Happy Fourth!
Related: Target's Pretty Floral Stoneware Dinner Bowl Looks Straight Out of an Antique Store
Quote of the Day: Audra McDonald on Why the Scariest Choices Often Lead to the Greatest Growth
As Audra McDonald celebrates her birthday on July 3, it's a fitting time to reflect on the remarkable journey of one of America's greatest performing artists. Her career has been defined not only by extraordinary talent but also by an unwavering willingness to take on the roles and challenges that frightened her most.
Audra McDonald is a record-breaking six-time Tony Award-winning performer whose extraordinary career has spanned Broadway, opera, film, television, and the concert stage, captivating audiences with her luminous voice, remarkable versatility, and emotional depth.
But success did not come easily. A graduate of The Juilliard School, McDonald possessed exceptional talent and classical vocal training, yet she quickly discovered that Broadway had few roles for a young Black actress who didn't fit the industry's narrow expectations. Rather than compromising who she was, she persevered, continuing to audition and trusting that the right opportunities would come. And just one year after graduation when she made her Broadway breakthrough in Carousel, earning her first Tony Award and launching one of the most remarkable careers in theater history.
Related: Quote of the Day: Poet Edgar Allan Poe on the Power of Creativity, Imagination and Daydreaming
Over the next three decades, McDonald rewrote the Tony Awards record books. She became the first performer to win Tony Awards in all four acting categories and remains the most decorated actor in Tony Awards history with six competitive Tony Awards. In 2025, she added another milestone when she received an unprecedented eleventh Tony Award nomination for her acclaimed performance in Gypsy. Beyond the stage, she has earned two Grammy Awards, an Emmy Award, the National Medal of Arts, and recognition as one of Time magazine's 100 most influential people. She also continues to reach new audiences through film and television, including her acclaimed role in HBO's The Gilded Age.
McDonald's impact extends far beyond her performances. She has been a passionate advocate for equality, LGBTQ+ rights, and young people experiencing homelessness, and in 2020 she co-founded Black Theatre United to advance racial equity and opportunity within the American theater community.
Most recently, on May 28, 2026, Harvard University awarded her an Honorary Doctor of Arts degree during its 375th Commencement ceremony. McDonald was one of five distinguished honorees recognized for their lifetime achievements and contributions to their fields, joining Geoffrey Hinton, Sir Noel Malcolm, Peggy Noonan, and Conan O'Brien in receiving Harvard's highest honor.
Quote of the Day by Audra McDonaldThroughout her career, McDonald has embraced the challenges that others might avoid, believing that the greatest growth often comes from stepping into the unknown. That philosophy is captured perfectly in today's quote:
"Whatever is the scariest is almost always what I end up choosing, because I figure that is where there is something to be learned."
Deeper Meaning of Audra McDonald's QuoteAudra McDonald's observation—"Whatever is the scariest is almost always what I end up choosing, because I figure that's where there's something to be learned"—came during a thoughtful interview with the Academy of Achievement, where she was reflecting on how she sustains creativity after decades at the top of her profession. McDonald pointed to the willingness to embrace uncertainty.
She explained that she is constantly searching for work that stretches her beyond what feels comfortable. As an artist and a mother, she acknowledged the practical realities of earning a living, but whenever she has a choice between projects, she asks herself one question: Which one scares me the most? To McDonald, fear is often a signal that there is something new to discover. Growth, she believes, comes not from repeating what you already know you can do, but from taking on challenges that demand more than you think you're capable of giving.
McDonald went on to reveal that the real obstacle isn't the challenge itself—it's the fear of failure. She admitted that she often worries she will "fall on her face," yet she has learned that even when success isn't guaranteed, the experience itself becomes a teacher.
She pointed to her Tony Award-winning role as Bess in The Gershwins' Porgy and Bess as one of the most intimidating decisions of her career. At the time, she walked away from a successful television role and a steady paycheck because the opportunity frightened her. She feared the vocal demands, anticipated criticism, and questioned whether she was capable of meeting the role's immense expectations. But she accepted it because she believed that, regardless of the outcome, she would emerge a stronger artist.
Looking back, that philosophy has become a defining thread throughout McDonald's extraordinary career. Time and again, the roles that intimidated her the most became the performances that transformed her. Her words serve as a reminder that fear is not always a warning to retreat. Sometimes, it is an invitation to grow.
More Quotes from Audra McDonald
"I think some sort of creativity is within everybody. I think that’s just a part of the human spirit. I think there’s no human being on earth who is not creative in some way, because I think it’s just a part of our genetic makeup."
"Causes are close and personal to my heart for a myriad of reasons — I’m female, I’m a mother, I’m African-American, I’m an ally with the LGBT community and I’m a citizen of the human race. I also think about posterity and I think about when my children are grown, and my grandchildren are grown. And when they look back I hope that they would see that their mother, grandmother, great-grandmother spoke up and did what she could to help out in the world because I would want them to do the same."
"I can’t tell you how many young African-American women, students or whatnot, come up to me and say, “I watched you as a kid, and I remember thinking, If she’s doing Broadway, then I can do it."
"I’ve always used my voice to call attention to issues that I thought were important. I’ve been on the board of Covenant House for four or five years now, doing work with homeless youth, trying to give them shelter and education and food and dignity. With Black Theatre United, it’s about all of us saying, “We can’t sit on the sidelines. We can lament everything going on, but how can we as a group effect change in some grander way than just on our own?” As Sherrilyn Ifill said in that town hall, “Everybody has to use the tools in your hand.”
"I had big feelings. I had music in my heart. And so once I found theater, it was like I have a place to put my big feelings now."
