Parade

Subscribe to Parade feed Parade
Your daily destination for celebrity news, videos, entertainment, food, recipes, health tips, fitness, and games from America's most popular magazine.
Updated: 50 min 42 sec ago

Kit Harington Replaces Nicholas Hoult as Gilderoy Lockhart in HBO's 'Harry Potter' Series

Mon, 08/24/2026 - 1:49pm

Kit Harington is set to formally return to HBO, but under a different banner than his previous work on Game of Thrones.

According to Deadline, Harington is officially set to take over the role of Professor Gilderoy Lockhart in season two of Harry Potter, replacing the original actor, Nicholas Hoult. As per the publication, Hoult, who was previously announced as one of the main stars of HBO’s Harry Potter, had to leave the show due to scheduling conflicts.

As dedicated Harry Potter fans might recall, Professor Lockhart is the self-obsessed, woefully inept celebrity wizard who takes over the role of Hogwart’s Defense Against the Dark Arts instructor in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.

Portrayed in the 2002 film by Kenneth Branagh, Harington more recently provided the voice for the character in the Audible recording of J.K. Rowling’s novel back in 2025.

“I read it, and like so many generations, I was entranced, and then I was a huge fan all through my teenage years,” Harington said of the Harry Potter series at the time.

In addition to his role in the audiobook series, Harington of course remains well-known for his breakout role on HBO’s Game of Thrones, which saw him play the scene-stealing role of Jon Snow, an illegitimate noble who becomes one of the unlikely heroes of the series.

With its second season greenlit in May, HBO’s Harry Potter will continue filming this fall, while its first season, which adapts Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, will premiere on Christmas.

The series is set to star Dominic McLaughlin as the titular boy wizard; Alastair Stout as Harry’s best friend Ron Weasley; Arabella Stanton as the duo’s studious friend Hermione Granger; Nick Frost as lovable groundskeeper Rubeus Hagrid; John Lithgow as the eccentric Albus Dumbledore; and Paapa Essiedu as the enigmatic Severus Snape.

Glenn Close Raves About Meeting Kim Kardashian's Boyfriend Lewis Hamilton on 'All's Fair' Set

Mon, 08/24/2026 - 1:49pm

Kim Kardashian‘s boyfriend has Glenn Close‘s stamp of approval.

Taking to Instagram over the weekend, the Cruella de Vil icon shared a sweet selfie of her and Lewis Hamilton, which included Kardashian, who presumably took the photo.

“Sir Lewis came by our ‘ALL’S FAIR’ location. I LOVED meeting him,” she wrote. “What a sweet, classy gentleman he is. Thank you, Kim, [for] bringing him by.”

View this post on Instagram

The reality star, 45, who went public with her relationship with the British Formula 1 driver, 41, earlier this year, commented on Close’s post with a heart emoji.

While the pair hasn’t spoken out much about their relationship, they’re not shy when it comes to sharing loved-up snaps of their time together. Most recently, Kardashian shared multiple photos of the two on vacation in Hawaii with her kids in tow.

Kardashian has also attended his Formula 1 races. At a race in June, Hamilton actually spoke about the mom-of-four publicly for the first time.

“It’s amazing to have her come this weekend and have her support,” Hamilton said. “It’s amazing to have good people around you and good people supporting you. She does that for me every day.”

Related: Lewis Hamilton Praises Kim Kardashian After Podium Finish, Breaks Silence on Relationship

He also spoke about her to the press in July.

Per People, after a reporter noted that he was “happier” having switched from driving for Mercedes to Ferrari, he managed to mention that along with his new team, Kardashian was also a contributor to his disposition.

“Once you spend a year with this team, Ferrari is still the most iconic team of all time, and they’ve had a difficult period of time,” he said. “It’s such an amazing team and they’ve been so welcoming. The first year was obviously very tough but to finally see the hard work we’re all putting in, it’s finally get us back to where we want to be.”

“And of course, of course, it’s Kim,” he added.

Kardashian was previously married to rapper Kanye West with whom she shares her four kids. Hamilton has never been married but previously dated Nicole Scherzinger and has also been romantically linked to Gigi Hadid and Sofia Richie in the past.

Season 2 of Ryan Murphy’s legal drama All’s Fair, which stars Close and Kardashian, along with Naomi Watts, Niecy Nash-Betts, Sarah Paulson, and Teyana Taylor, is scheduled to return to Hulu on November 4, 2026.

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

Walmart’s Adjustable $31 Mini Cabinet Squeezes Extra Storage Into Cramped Bathrooms and Laundry Rooms 

Mon, 08/24/2026 - 1:45pm

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 your tiny bathroom feels like it’s running out of places to put things, you’re not alone. From extra toilet paper to skincare and toiletries, everyday essentials can quickly pile up when you’re working with limited counter and cabinet space. A compact storage cabinet could be an easy way to make the most of an otherwise unused corner.

Right now, the Costway Slim Bathroom Storage Cabinet is on sale for $31 at Walmart, down from $54 — that’s 42% off. It features both open shelves and a closed compartment, making it easy to keep frequently used items within reach while hiding away bathroom clutter. Walmart shoppers said the cabinet is “high quality” and easy to assemble. 

Costway Slim Bathroom Storage Cabinet, $31 (was $54) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Measuring just 8 inches long, 7 inches wide and 31.5 inches tall, the Costway Bathroom Storage Cabinet is designed for cramped spaces. It has two open shelves with raised edges to help keep your belongings from sliding off. There’s also a lower cabinet with a door for keeping less attractive essentials tucked away.

The cabinet also has an adjustable three-tier shelf that can be moved in 2.5-inch increments so you can customize the storage space to fit your needs. However, when you need extra room for taller bottles, cleaning supplies or other larger items, you can remove the shelves altogether. It has a total weight capacity of 44 pounds.

For added stability, the cabinet comes with two anti-toppling kits and anti-slip foot pads, so you can secure it in place and keep it steady. It also has a magnetic door catch and round handle for easy opening and closing. 

Although it’s designed for the bathroom, the cabinet can also make use of overlooked corners in other rooms, such as the living room, pantry, or hallway. And because it takes up less than hald a square foot of floor space, it’s a practical pick for apartments, small homes, and anywhere else you’re short on storage. 

The cabinet comes in black, brown, and white for the same price, so you can choose the color that best fits your space and decor. 

Shop More Deals

Related: Walmart’s Narrow 71-Inch Cabinet Adds Instant Storage to Cramped Bathroom Corners, Now Over 40% Off

If you’re looking for an easy way to make the most of a small space, this slim Costway Slim Bathroom Storage Cabinet is an affordable way to add storage for just $31. Head to Walmart and 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.

Woman Sues Wendy’s, Claims Double Cheeseburger Caused Serious Bacterial Illness

Mon, 08/24/2026 - 1:42pm

A woman is suing Wendy’s after allegedly consuming a double cheeseburger that left her in the hospital.

Roxie Ellis Douglas claims the fast-food chain infected her with a bacterial illness after eating their food. She filed the complaint on July 30. She alleges her meal was “not fit” for human consumption, according to the complaint obtained by People.

The case was filed in the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois, but Wendy’s requested that it be transferred to the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois on Aug. 20. The company also asked for a trial by jury.

Douglas claims she had a double cheeseburger meal, which included a double cheeseburger and a baked potato, delivered from a Chicago Wendy’s on Aug. 5, 2025. She stated that the food arrived in a “sealed, unopened bag” and that she ate it at home.

The plaintiff claimed she then “suffered serious illness and injury” as a “direct and proximate result” of consuming food from the chain. She alleges the meal caused her to suffer from “Campylobacter intestinal infection, acute infectious colitis, leukocytosis, dehydration, gastroenteritis, and hypokalemia secondary to diarrhea.”

Douglas added that serving Campylobacter- or other bacteria-infected food “is unreasonably dangerous for its ordinary and expected use of human consumption.”

“Such a food product is thus in an unreasonably dangerous condition not contemplated by an ordinary consumer, making it defective,” she alleged. She claimed the fast-food restaurant did not use ingredients that were safe and “free from adulteration of deathly pathogens.”

She further alleged that Wendy’s did not use “safe and proper” methods to prepare her meal and failed to give an “adequate warning” about the dangers of consuming the food. She claims the meal was “unreasonably dangerous and in a defective condition.”

Douglas allegedly has accrued over $93,000 in medical expenses, according to People. These included charges from the Chicago Fire Department/EMS and a Chicago hospital.

Douglas is suing Wendy’s for damages in excess of $50,000.

A representative for Wendy’s did not immediately respond to Parade‘s request for comment.

‘M*A*S*H’ Star Mourns Death of His Beloved Wife of 42 Years at 82: ‘We Are Heartbroken’

Mon, 08/24/2026 - 1:42pm

Actor Mike Farrell and his family are mourning the death of his wife of 42 years, actress and singer Shelley Fabares.

Fabares, beloved for her roles on The Donna Reed Show and Coach and for starring opposite Elvis Presley in three movies, died Saturday, Aug. 22, in Los Angeles following a brief illness, her family announced. She was 82.

Farrell, best known for playing Capt. B.J. Hunnicutt on M*A*S*H shared a photo of a candle on Instagram along with a statement from himself and Fabares’ family announcing her death.

“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Shelley Fabares, who died Saturday, August 22 in Los Angeles surrounded by those who loved her,” the statement began.

Mike Farrell and Family Remember Shelley Fabares View this post on Instagram

Farrell and the family remembered Fabares not only for the career that made her a familiar face to generations of television viewers, but for the woman they knew away from the screen.

“To her family and friends, Shelley was a source of love, strength, laughter, and comfort,” they wrote, describing her as a devoted wife and cherished family member whose “warmth, generosity, humor and grace” affected those around her.

They also reflected on the remarkable career that made Fabares a baby-boomer icon.

She began playing Mary Stone, the teenage daughter of Donna and Alex Stone, on The Donna Reed Show in 1958. During her time on the hit ABC sitcom, a storyline about Mary’s singing career unexpectedly gave Fabares a real-life No. 1 record.

“Johnny Angel” topped the Billboard Hot 100 in April 1962, despite Fabares’ insistence that she wasn’t really a singer. The recording featured Darlene Love and the Blossoms on backing vocals and Glen Campbell on guitar.

The single spent two weeks at No. 1, remained on the chart for 15 weeks and eventually sold more than 1 million copies.

Fabares later made the leap to movies, starring alongside Presley in Girl Happy in 1965, Spinout in 1966 and Clambake in 1967. She once recalled being overwhelmed simply watching Presley walk onto the set of their first movie together.

“The presence that this man had … you couldn’t talk,” she remembered in an interview with Elvis Australia. “Nobody did anything. You just sort of stopped.”

Shelley Fabares Found Another Hit Role on ‘Coach’

Fabares continued working extensively in television, including appearances on One Day at a Time, Mork & Mindy, Mannix and Love, American Style. She also portrayed the wife of Chicago Bears player Brian Piccolo, played by James Caan, in the acclaimed 1971 television movie Brian’s Song.

Another defining role arrived decades after The Donna Reed Show when Fabares joined the cast of Coach. She played Christine Armstrong, the girlfriend and eventual wife of Craig T. Nelson’s Hayden Fox, for eight seasons and received two Emmy nominations for her performance.

Offscreen, Fabares and Farrell had first met in 1970 when she guest-starred on his series The Interns. They crossed paths again 12 years later during a CBS press tour and began dating, according to The Hollywood Reporter. The couple married in 1984 at the Pacific Palisades home of Fabares’ aunt, actress Nanette Fabray.

Farrell once credited his wife with bringing a lighter side out of him, while Fabares said the differences between their personalities complemented each other.

“Mike grounds me, and I think I pull him out sometimes,” she said. “It’s a nice mix.”

More than four decades after they married, Farrell and Fabares’ family closed their announcement by reflecting on what they had shared with her.

“We are heartbroken by her loss, yet profoundly grateful for the years we shared with her and for the joy, compassion, and love she brought to so many,” they wrote.

“We ask that our family’s privacy be respected as we grieve. We take comfort in knowing that Shelley’s work and the memories she created with those who loved her will continue to live on.”

Related: Elvis’ Leading Lady in Two Hit Movies Dies at 87

Rumer Willis Reveals Why She’s Undergoing Genetic Testing Amid Dad Bruce Willis’ Dementia Battle

Mon, 08/24/2026 - 1:38pm

Rumer Willis revealed she’s undergoing genetic testing to determine her risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.  

Rumer, 38, has forged a successful music and television career over the years. But her father Bruce’s Willis‘ battle with frontotemporal dementia (FTD), which he was diagnosed with in 2023 after initially being diagnosed with aphasia the year before, had made her think about her own future.

“It’s terrifying to get answers sometimes,” she told PEOPLE. “Obviously there are genetic things in my family. Not just dementia, I’ve had some family members who have had breast cancer and family members who have had different things.”

 Rumer partnered with Function, a health membership that offers more than 160 advanced lab tests, imaging, and specialized assessments, to determine her risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. 

“But I think when you have information, it’s power,” she says. “And that sounds so, like, Spider-Man, but when we’re able to see, OK, maybe I’m more predisposed to this, you can just start actively working to reduce inflammation in your body, work on heart health, whatever it is. That’s why it’s been so amazing to be able to track a lot of those things with Function.”

View this post on Instagram

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

How Did They Celebrate Bruce’s Birthday?

Back in March, Bruce, who was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia (FTD) in 2023 at the age of 67, turned 71. In addition to sharing a sweet, smiling photo of her husband, his wife Emma Heming Willis used the opportunity to share an important message about the creation of a new charity, The Emma & Bruce Willis Fund. According to the organization’s website, its mission will be “to confront frontotemporal dementia by raising awareness, funding promising research, and supporting caregivers.”

In the caption of the post, Heming Willis elaborated on why she decided to establish the organization.

“Today we celebrate Bruce’s birthday. 💙 This journey with frontotemporal dementia (FTD) has opened my eyes to the realities so many families face. It’s what inspired me to create The Emma & Bruce Willis Fund to raise awareness of FTD, support research, and stand beside the caregivers who carry so much every day,” she wrote.

View this post on Instagram

Heming Willis continued by requesting that those who wish to honor Bruce and his journey could consider supporting the organization, another organization, or simply checking in on a caregiver, which is “a small act of kindness that can mean so much.”

How Many Children Does Bruce Willis Have?

Bruce Willis has two children, Evelyn and Mabel, with Heming Willis. In addition to Rumer, he also has two other daughters, Tallulah and Scout, with ex-wife Demi Moore. Last year, Heming Willis opened up about the blended family’s love for each other during an appearance on Oprah‘s podcast.

View this post on Instagram

Related: Emma Heming Willis Pens Touching Post Honoring Bruce Willis on Their 17th Wedding Anniversary

Sandra Bullock Explains Why She 'Isolated' During Bryan Randall's ALS Battle

Mon, 08/24/2026 - 1:32pm

Sandra Bullock is finally opening up about her relationship with the late photographer Bryan Randall three years after his death. The Oscar winner explained that Randall asked her to keep his ALS diagnosis private, which ultimately caused her to isolate herself.

“I wasn’t allowed to speak about it. That was the request, and I tried and I honored it,” Bullock, 62, said during a Monday, August 24, appearance on the SmartLess podcast. “He asked me not to share. And I know why he asked me. It isolated me in the process, and plus the entire world was locked in with a pandemic.”

The Blindside actress explained that Randall was “ill” for half of their relationship, but his official diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis took time.

“You don’t go, ‘Oh you have these symptoms; you have ALS.’ It is literally the process of elimination over the course of a year and some, where you keep going back, and they give you all these milestones, these things to do,” she continued. “ALS appears in different ways. His was not hereditary, which is I think a huge sigh of relief. But it was about a year and some of watching it to see what it is. It could have been this, could have been this. But what I saw, I knew.”

Bullock told hosts Jason Bateman, Will Arnett and Sean Hayes that the experience led to her decision to walk away from her Hollywood career.

“I just pulled the plug,” Bullock said. “I said I can’t anymore. I have nothing to give right now. Nothing. Zero.”

The Gravity actress announced her plans in 2022 while doing press for her film The Lost City.

“I can be creative, I can be part of a community, but right now, work in front of the camera needs to take a pause,” she told CBS News at the time. “I want to be at home. I’m not doing anyone any favors who’s investing in a project if I’m saying, ‘I just want to be at home.’ ‘Cause I was always running, I was always running to the next thing. I just want to be present, and responsible for one thing.”

Randall tragically lost his battle with ALS in August 2023 at the age of 57.

Neil Young Releases New Version of Song First Recorded 61 Years Ago

Mon, 08/24/2026 - 1:32pm

Music icon Neil Young has surprised fans by unearthing a new version of a song that he had first recorded over six decades ago.

Last month, the beloved Canadian-American singer-songwriter and musician announced that he, along with his new band the Chrome Hearts, would be revisiting Young’s old discography with the new album Second Song, which would feature fresh takes on two songs that he originally wrote as a teenager: “I’ll Love You Forever” and “Casting Me Away From You”. Sixty years later, he shared the new version of the latter.

“‘Casting Me Away From You’ is one of my early songs. I think I wrote it in [1964 or 1965.] When we recorded Second Song; early this year I ran out of tunes fast. I only had the 5 new ones, long ones, and I needed more, so I started to feel it out and came up with ‘Casting Me Away’ – from the deep past,” he said in a post shared on the Neil Young Archives website. “There is an old recording with my school-mate Comrie Smith, somewhere in the ARCHIVES from that time. I recorded it for the Second Song album with the Chrome Hearts the next day.”

The statement continues, “In the early 70s, some time soon after I moved to Broken Arrow Ranch, David Meyers, the great cinematographer, jumped on the back of my old jeepster and we took a ride across Broken Arrow. 20 years or so before Rick Rosas shot the trip that is now ‘Second Song’.”

The recording is soundtracked to a throwback clip of Young. In the video, the singer’s former partner Carrie Snodgress, with whom he shares his eldest son Zeke, is riding her horse along with Timer, the then-couple’s dog, who’s riding with Young as they “cross the beautiful ranch on a new road.”

“Those two old songs, they just seemed to fit with the new ones,” he said of Second Song, which is set for release on Sept. 18, 2026, per Rolling Stone. “There was no concept. [The album] is a couple of old songs, and lot of new ones. With the length of the new songs, we could have knocked out the old songs and still had an album, for length. But we went ahead and added the two old songs. That’s what this album is about. It’s about the new songs vs the old songs. The old songs offer some sort of reflection and juxtaposition or something. They all seem to fit together.”

Related: Veteran Drummer, Behind Hit Rock Song ‘Thunderstruck,’ Announces Retirement After 61 Years

Aldi's New $20 Find Is Strikingly Similar to a Bogg Bag Style 4x the Price

Mon, 08/24/2026 - 1:30pm

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

Whether you want to admit it or not, there’s always an excuse to buy a new tote. From petite canvas styles to heavy-duty grocery haulers and beach bags alike, having the right tote can make the difference between struggling to carry everything from point A to point B and effortlessly bringing along all your essentials.

Fortunately, Aldi knows just how to satisfy your individual carry-all needs, as proven by the latest iteration of its LS Live in Style Haul It All Medium Tote. Featuring a game-day-ready football theme that looks strikingly similar to a Bogg Bag style four times the price, this sporty $20 daily hauler is a must-have for any occasion, but especially ready for tailgates, cookouts and fall adventures alike.

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

LS Live in Style Haul It All Medium Tote, $19.99 at Aldi

Aldi

Hitting stores starting Wednesday, Aug. 26, Aldi’s LS Live in Style Haul It All Medium Tote arrives in three colors: black, green and an all-over football print, each perfect for corralling items in your car, grocery runs, beach trips and beyond. At $19.99, each bag in this seasonal lineup features a sturdy, tip-proof design, complete with a durable, waterproof and washable EVA-style plastic construction that stands upright on its own.

Part of the larger, budget-friendly “Haul It All” tote line, these new styles arrive just in time for fall, with the Football colorway standing out as a hot-ticket pickup as football season approaches. Featuring a cream base color, the bag sports an all-over football print with matching brown straps, creating a stylish, novelty look that looks just as good on you as it would at your next tailgate.

Related: Aldi’s Nifty $4 Baking Essential Makes the Cutest Little Thanksgiving Treats

Your Reliable Everyday Carry

Just like its Bogg Bag counterpart, this medium Haul It All tote can hold up to 40 pounds of gear, with versions like it typically measuring 15 inches long, five inches wide and 12.5 inches tall. It also features side holes punched throughout its body, which allow for customization and modular add-ons like matching phone holders, cooler inserts and organizer pouches, all of which are sold separately.

Whether you use it for daily errands, a gym bag, solo day trips with the family or a novelty grocery hauler, this football-themed tote is ready for action. And considering most Bogg Bags retail for upwards of $80, snagging this affordable dupe for $60 less feels like an absolute no-brainer. 

Just make sure you keep your eyes peeled for its arrival on Aug. 26. With football season about to start, this one is guaranteed to sell out fast. While you’re there, take a peek at Aldi’s Kirkton House Fall Comfort Mat and Burgundy Leaves Harvest Wreath for even more fall inspiration.

Related: Aldi’s Versatile Couch Table Just Got an Upgrade, and It’s Still Unrivaled in Small Spaces

'70s Rock Legend, Founder of an Influential Band From Cleveland, Turns 79

Mon, 08/24/2026 - 1:28pm

On Aug. 24, 1947, ’70s music icon Jimmy Fox—famously known for hiring Joe Walsh years before the Eagles did—was born. Today, Aug. 24, 2026, The James Gang founder, namesake, and drummer celebrates his 79th birthday.

The founding member, after whom the band is named, is the original drummer and the only constant member across all of the band’s lineups. Born in Cleveland, Fox reportedly picked up his first pair of drumsticks in fourth grade and never put them down.

By the tender age of eight, he had already begun taking music theory classes at the Cleveland Music School Settlement. “They were valuable to me because over and above what I actually learned there. I was already aspiring to be a drummer,” Fox said in an interview. “But my father was dead set against it, preferring that I choose a ‘musical’ instrument.” Eventually, though, he changed his dad’s mind.

Related: 1967 Rock Song, a No. 1 Hit by a 16-Year-Old Box Tops Member, Ranked Among ‘Greatest Songs of All Time’

The James Gang is one of classic rock’s earliest power trios, per Classic Rock Here and Now. Though the band’s members changed numerous times during a ~ten-year existence, rock historians and fans cite Walsh, Fox, and Dale Peters as the band’s definitive line-up. Fox’s groovy rhythms on James Gang Rides Again and Thirds are standout releases of his career.

Meanwhile, the band as a collective is known for radio hits like “Walk Away” and “Funk #49.”

Fox was also an early member of Cleveland pop band The Outsiders, known for “Time Won’t Let Me,” and has gained a wide range of diverse session credits with the likes of Eric Clapton, B.B. King, Stephen Stills, Chuck Mangione, and more.

Music aside, the drummer has explored a unique hobby for decades: collecting license plates. Stunningly, he once had a collection of thirty thousand plates. His affinity for the steel scraps was even turned into a book, published in 2019, entitled License Plates of the United States: A Pictorial History 1903 to the Present. “Not everyone can appreciate the fineries of a rusting hunk of old steel,” Fox wrote.

Next, 1986 Powerful Hit, a Cover of Their Own Rock Song, Revived Legendary Band Aerosmith’s Career

One Iconic Arc From ‘I Love Lucy’ Had To Have All Scripts Reviewed by a Priest, a Minister, and a Rabbi

Mon, 08/24/2026 - 1:26pm

A pregnancy arc doesn’t create too much drama behind-the-scenes on TV nowadays, but that wasn’t the case in the 1950s. When Lucille Ball learned that she was pregnant, the writers had to figure out what to do on I Love Lucy.

Write the pregnancy in? That’s something that would be considered in today’s world of scriptwriting. Sometimes, it wouldn’t be realistic for the characters, so the pregnancy is hidden, but many shows such as The Vampire Diaries and Nashville have written the pregnancies in to make it easier on filming.

I Love Lucy also wrote in a pregnancy, and it created problems for the network. This was in 1952, when the network executives at CBS were terrified about what it would mean for TV viewers. After all, pregnancy was considered a taboo subject; it was viewed as vulgar, and nobody wanted to write that in.

There was no way around it, but there were strict censors in place, including around the world, “pregnant.” It couldn’t be spoken on air, so the writers had to get creative. It led to characters saying “expecting” or “expectant” to describe Lucy’s “condition.”

One creative way to get around it all was to use the word “enceinte,” the French for pregnant. It was even used in the episode title, “Lucy Is Enceinte.”

circa 1955: American actor and comedian Lucille Ball receives a kiss on the cheek from her husband, Cuban-born bandleader and musician Desi Arnaz, on the set of their television series, ‘I Love Lucy’. (Photo by CBS Photo Archive/Getty Images)

That’s not where the problems stopped, though! Every single script throughout the pregnancy arc had to be run past a priest, a minister, and a rabbi. It seems wild in today’s day and age that scripts would need to be approved by three members of different faiths, but it was considered important from a “morality” point of view.

Talking of “morality,” despite pregnancy, Lucy and Ricky still slept in separate twin beds in their bedroom. Fans had become used to seeing twin beds in bedrooms, and still would be for a short time after this, but did it make sense when it was clear the two were a married couple?

Despite all of this, people were interested in the arc. On Jan. 19, 1953, “Lucy Goes to the Hospital” aired. This was the episode in which Lucy gave birth to her and Ricky’s child, and it coincided with the exact date Ball gave birth to her real-life son, Desi Arnaz Jr. The birth was a planned C-section, allowing for the network to figure out a way to make the date extra special.

It ended up being a major draw in the ratings, with around 70% of U.S. households with a TV tuning in. That was around 44 million, and more than President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s inauguration the next day.

None of these events from I Love Lucy would see a change in television standards. The word “pregnant” remained censored until the 1960s, and it was a slow change, with writers slipping in the word here and there. It was only in the 1970s that everything shifted, and suddenly, the word was no longer taboo. In fact, the word was widely used to help bring focus to other “taboo” subjects, including miscarriage and abortion.

What I Love Lucy did prove was that audiences weren’t shocked or horrified to see a realistic story hit the airwaves. In fact, they supported it.

Related: Bestselling Author Nicholas Sparks’ 1996 Debut Novel, Later Turned Into an Iconic Romance Film, Turns 30 This Year

Stars of 1990s 'Brady Bunch Movie' Reveal They Weren't Fans of the Original Series: 'We Were All Too Cool for That'

Mon, 08/24/2026 - 1:22pm

The Brady Bunch might remain one of the beloved sitcoms in television history, but if you were to ask Gary Cole and Shelley Long, the stars of the two Brady Bunch movies were hardly fans of the original series.

As shared by People magazine, Long and Cole, who would of course go on to star in 1995’s The Brady Bunch Movie and its immediate follow-up A Very Brady Sequel, have both said over the years that weren’t avid viewers when it came to the long-running ABC comedy series, The Brady Bunch.

“I wasn’t really a Bradyite when it was first on the air,” Long once said in an interview with the Phoenix New Times back in 1995, right around the time The Brady Bunch Movie first arrived in theaters. “I wasn’t really watching any television then – I was trying to get my own career off the ground. But I heard about the Bradys, though. I knew they were doing their thing and America was talking about them.”

Similarly, Gary Cole said in a 2025 interview with Remind Magazine that he also rarely watched The Brady Bunch back in the late 1960s.

“When it came on the air, it was 1969, so I was in junior high school, and it was Friday night, which was significant,” Cole said.

“So I had one foot out the door on Friday nights, like most of my friends did,” the Office Space star continued. “So I was not in a situation where I was sitting around with my family, because I was beyond that. We were all too cool to do that then. But I do remember all my friends talking about Marcia, for obvious reasons, when you’re a teenage boy.”

Fortunately, in spite of the actors’ indifference to the source material, The Brady Bunch Movie went on to become a major financial success, grossing $54.1 million against an estimated budget of $11 million.

1989 Rock Song, Written by One of the 'Greatest' Supergroups of All Time Badlands, Is Still a Powerful Hit 37 Years Later

Mon, 08/24/2026 - 1:00pm

Badlands, the hard rock and heavy metal band, may have had a short-lived run, but the supergroup left behind a catalog that continues to stand the test of time, including the 1989 track “Dreams in the Dark.”

Named as one of the greatest supergroups of all time by BBC Music magazine, the quartet, composed of former Black Sabbath vocalist Ray Gillen on lead vocals, former Ozzy Osbourne member Jake E. Lee on lead guitar, Greg Chaisson on bass and Eric Singer on drums, delivered a unique sound that blended a bluesy, Led Zeppelin-inspired sound with explosive hair metal-style riffs.

Thirty-seven years after releasing the self-titled debut album, the band’s legacy continues to resonate with younger listeners.

While their first record secured No. 35 on Rolling Stone’s list of the 50 Greatest Hair Metal Albums of All Time, their standout song “Dreams in the Dark” showcased the band’s powerful hard rock sound.

Ray Gillen of the rock group Badlands during a portrait session in 1989

Krasner/Trebitz/Redferns

Reddit contributors continue to praise the enduring legacy of the 1989 song.

“God, ray singing is so f–ng good. Jake e lee ripping on the guitar. These guys were amazing,” a commenter wrote, referring to “Dreams in the Dark.”

“First heard Dreams in the Dark on the radio, bought the cassette, then was blown away! Incredible Album!” one wrote.

“The bass player does a great job in this tune. Banger of a track!” another said.

Written as part of the band’s debut album, the song reflects on a once-happy romance that has fallen apart. Its lyrics capture the sadness of realizing that something that once felt like forever did not last.

View this post on Instagram

“Never in my life, before or since, have I tried to write a hit single, but Dreams in the Dark was my attempt at writing a pop song,” Lee told Guitar World. “Without having pressure from the record company, I probably never would have written that song – but it’s a good song.”

Despite the track’s melancholic themes, it showcased the soaring vocals of the ex-Black Sabbath singer and the aggressive guitar work of the former Ozzy Osbourne member.

At the time, “Dreams in the Dark” received heavy rotation on MTV, giving the band high visibility but achieving only moderate chart success after peaking at No. 38 on the Mainstream Rock chart.

Despite this, Badlands’ legacy would not be complete without mentioning “Dreams in the Dark,” which remains one of the band’s signature anthems.

Related: 1972 No. 1 Hit by America Ranked Among ‘Greatest Soft Rock Songs’ of All Time

Bo Jackson, 'The Greatest Athlete Ever,' Poses With Beloved ’80s Icon, 60

Mon, 08/24/2026 - 12:57pm

If you’re a child of the ’70s or ’80s, you’ll remember an era when crossover TV episodes became must-see programming. Seeing our favorite characters collide, whether it was the Fonz dropping in on Joanie Loves Chachi or the Cheers characters visiting the bar on St. Elsewhere, fans couldn’t get enough of two different worlds coming together.

Bo Jackson, the famed athlete who dominated both the NFL and Major League Baseball in the 1980s and early 1990s, just gave fans the ultimate crossover: a reunion with another Chicago favorite, John Cusack.

John Cusack, the beloved Say Anything… star, 60, shared a photo of the recent reunion with Bo Jackson, writing, “Bo knows – the GREAT truly great – Bo Jackson at Sox park talking about the old days!”

John Cusack and Bo Jackson both became icons of the ’80s and ’90s, but in completely different arenas, making this one of those intriguing yet completely logical celebrity pairings.

View this post on Instagram

Cusack became one of the defining actors of his generation, starring in films including Say Anything…, Better Off Dead, Sixteen Candles, The Sure Thing and High Fidelity. Bo Jackson became one of the most watched and celebrated athletes of his era, the rare athlete who excelled in both professional football and baseball.

But the two share an even deeper connection than their ’80s and ’90s fame.

They share a deep love of Chicago, a love that is equally returned.

Related: 30 Years After the Magnificent Seven, Shannon Miller, 49, Still Has the Precision That Made Her a Legend

John Cusack and Bo Jackson Share a Chicago Connection

John Cusack was born and raised in the Chicago area and has long been one of the city’s most recognizable celebrity sports fans. Cusack is particularly associated with the Chicago Cubs and has been a familiar face at Wrigley Field for years. He has also shared that he grew up watching both Chicago baseball teams and has been known to attend White Sox games as well.

Bo Jackson may not have been born in Chicago, but when his football career was cut short by a devastating hip injury, he returned to baseball with the Chicago White Sox. Jackson played for the team in 1991 and again in 1993, famously returning from hip replacement surgery and hitting a home run in his first at-bat back. He became the first athlete in professional sports history to compete with an artificial hip.

Fans were quick to celebrate the ultimate ’80s icon crossover.

“Two legends! But I’m a Kansas City native that moved to Chicago. Bo knows!! I have his bobblehead! But so JC is also a legend!” one fan wrote.

“Greatness knows greatness,” another gushed.

Another referenced Jackson’s infamous “Bo Knows” Nike campaign from the late ’80s, writing, “Bo knows John Cusack.”

Bo Jackson Became a Sports Legend in Chicago

For both Bo Jackson and John Cusack, Chicago holds a special place in their careers and personal legacies.

For Jackson, the 1985 Heisman Trophy winner from Auburn who played for the Los Angeles Raiders while simultaneously pursuing a career in Major League Baseball, Chicago represents the city where the famed athlete was able to keep his legendary career alive following a potentially career-ending injury.

Bo Jackson’s career was defined by defying odds and achieving the impossible. In Chicago, he was able to do it once again and return from an injury that would have sidelined most athletes.

That larger-than-life reputation is still very much intact. Social media commenters were quick to call Jackson “the greatest athlete of all time,” along with simply calling him a “legend.”

John Cusack Became a Chicago Movie Icon

For John Cusack, Chicago is not only where he grew up, but also where he first caught Hollywood’s attention.

Cusack starred in John Hughes’ directorial debut, Sixteen Candles, which was filmed in Chicago. He would go on to become one of the era’s most sought-after young actors, the unconventional everyman leading man who represented a different kind of movie hero.

Cusack has also remained outspoken about his love for all things Chicago. He is one of the city’s most high-profile celebrity sports fans, particularly when it comes to the Cubs.

In 2016, MLB noted that he attended 76 Cubs games during the regular season. He may be best known for his appearances at Wrigley Field, but Cusack has also been spotted at Bears and Bulls games, making him an equal-opportunity Chicago sports fan.

Two ’80s Icons, One Very Chicago Reunion @dudestalgia

Texas Rangers vs Chicago White Sox #bojackson #bojacksonbaseball #whitesoxbaseball #chicagowhitesox #homerun

♬ original sound – Dudestalgia

Cusack and Jackson have met over the years, but their recent reunion is a reminder of the staying power of two Chicago-connected icons.

One became famous on movie screens. The other became famous on football fields and baseball diamonds. Both became larger-than-life figures during the same era, and both remain instantly recognizable decades later.

And there’s something especially fitting about seeing them together in Chicago.

For fans who grew up with Say Anything… and “Bo Knows,” the photo is more than a celebrity snapshot. It feels like a little piece of the ’80s and ’90s somehow wandered back into the present.

Two legends. One city. And, apparently, Bo knows John Cusack.

Related: Olympic Skating Legend, 62, Who Created Magic at the 1988 Winter Games, Can Still Make the Ice Sing

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

The Fated Person Who Changes Your Life, Based on Birth Date

Mon, 08/24/2026 - 12:55pm

Have you ever met someone and just knew they would change everything? Maybe this person was a romantic partner, such as a soulmate or twin flame, but it doesn’t have to be inherently romantic. Teachers, mentors, family members, friends, and more can have an equally powerful effect on your life. Usually, these individuals come in to teach you a spiritual lesson as part of your soul’s contract with them. They usually activate a karmic lesson your soul needs to undergo, so that you can align with your fate and destiny.

Spiritual experts and numerologists agree that the numerological energy of your birth date calls in a specific person. This person arrives to trigger immense spiritual transformation. However, not every birth date will share the same experience, because this person is unique to your spiritual journey. Read on to discover the person you’ll never forget after they change your life for birth dates 1 to 31.

This is the Person Who Changes Your Life, Based on Your Birth Date

Check if your date of birth is listed. Disregard birth months.

Born on the 1st, 10th, 19th, and 28th: The Doer

Leading the way wasn’t always easy for those born on the 1st, 10th, 19th, and 28th. Despite being ruled by courageous 1, these birth dates had to learn to walk their own paths. They might have felt called to pursue a unique career, dream, or ambition, but felt too afraid to go after it. Luckily, these birth dates will find their bravery to pave their own way after meeting the Doer. The Doer comes into these birth dates’ lives to launch them forward by setting the example. The Doer likely started their own business, traveled alone, or simply dove into anything that sparked interest. People born on these dates would have been in awe of the Doer’s willingness not only to try anything, but to stick with it. Thanks to the Doer, these birth dates have the confidence and willpower to get the ball rolling.

Born on the 2nd, 11th, 20th, and 29th: The Intuitive

Honoring one’s intuition can be tough and go for people born on the 2nd, 11th, 20th, and 29th. These birth dates align with the moon, the astrological planet of intuition, as well as the empathy and discernment of 2. It’s no secret that these birth dates are deeply aware of their surroundings and those in it. However, they might struggle with trusting their gut feelings. Maybe their self-assurance went down after too many wrong turns, but thankfully, the Intuitive can help. The Intuitive is someone who has full confidence in their gut feelings and wisdom, so the Intuitive doesn’t hesitate to act. People born on these dates will regain their certainty and trust in their own sacred knowledge the more they spend time with the Intuitive.

Born on the 3rd, 12th, 21st, and 30th: The Student

Exploring one’s curiosity fades over time, even for those born on the 3rd, 12th, 21st, and 30th. Despite being ruled by philosophical Jupiter and knowledgeable 3, these birth dates struggle making time for their interests. They might let life, work, and more get in the way of indulging in their intellectual pursuits. But this won’t last forever once the Student comes into their life. The Student might actually be a classmate, but they don’t have to be. Regardless of who the Student is, this person is excited to learn and hone their craft. Their dedication to reading, writing, researching, and more re-awakens these birth dates’ curiosity. People born on these dates might even find the confidence to continue their education or become published after meeting the Student.

RELATE?: The 3 Birth Months That Never Do Anything Halfway

Born on the 4th, 13th, 22nd, and 31st: The Worker

People born on the 4th, 13th, 22nd, and 31st want the stability and security that 4 has to offer. However, they’re often at odds with their ruling planet, Uranus, which represents chaos, rebellion, and change. These birth dates think they want steadiness, but they cannot help self-sabotaging their own success. People born on these dates claim it’s their need for change and freedom. Luckily, the Worker is here to help. The Worker is a dedicated, tenacious individual who keeps their eye on the prize. People with these birth dates are inspired by the Worker’s perseverance and patience, especially once the Worker achieves the success they’re seeking. Thankfully, the Worker can also show these birth dates that stability doesn’t have to be monotonous if these birth dates strike a balance with working hard and playing hard.

Born on the 5th, 14th, and 23rd: The Rebel

Being individualistic is challenging for those born on the 5th, 14th, and 23rd. Numerologists say that this birth date embodies the authenticity and changeability of 5. They’re genuinely dynamic individuals with many interests and quirks. But their self-confidence faded as time went on. A desire to conform and fit dimmed their unique brilliance. However, all of this changes when the Rebel comes into their life. The Rebel has a strong personality and powerful presence that turns heads. Unlike others, the Rebel doesn’t care if they’re polarizing as long as they’re true to who they are. People born on these dates are in awe of the Rebel’s vivacity, creativity, and individuality. Even if the Rebel doesn’t stick around, this person ultimately reminds these birth dates that life’s too short to be anyone else but themselves.

Born on the 6th, 15th, and 24th: The Lover

Connection is complicated for those born on the 6th, 15th, and 24th despite being ruled by Venus, the astrological planet of love. Romance, friendship, and family should come naturally. After all, numerology says these birth dates align with 6’s caring attitude and compassionate heart. People born on these dates give too much and take too little in return for the sake of maintaining their relationships. As a result, they struggle with setting boundaries and upholding their standards until they meet the Lover. The Lover teaches these individuals to be firmer in their relationships. The Lover is different, because this person pushes back on the idea of accepting the love these birth dates think they desire. Regardless of what happens with the Lover, this person will forever change how these birth dates approach and maintain relationships moving forward.

Born on the 7th, 16th, and 25th: The Hermit

How hard is it to be alone? Well, those born on the 7th, 16th, and 25th have an uncomfortable relationship with solitude. According to numerology, they’re guided by the reflective qualities of 7. Although they may crave alone time, being alone might trigger something within them. These birth dates could feel guilty or anxious when they step away from the crowd. Thankfully, they’ll learn to find peace with being alone after meeting the Hermit. The Hermit is an interesting character, because this individual doesn’t befriend everyone. For whatever reason, the Hermit is drawn to these birth dates. The Hermit shows these individuals that there’s immense peace in being alone. People born on these dates will be more inspired to take time for themselves after seeing how fulfilling it can be by watching the Hermit. 

NEXT: Your Birth Month, The Reminder You Need to Hear

Born on the 8th, 17th, and 26th: The Boss

Embracing one’s personal, professional, and financial authority is a major karmic lesson for people born on the 8th, 17th, and 26th. Between being ruled by karmic Saturn and complex 8, these birth dates have to learn to strive for balance instead of control. Interestingly, the Boss will teach them how to do this. The Boss isn’t an inherently positive or negative authority figure, so the Boss likely falls into a complex gray area. Regardless, the Boss is meant to show these birth dates how to manage and hone one’s personal power. People born on these dates should watch how the Boss handles success and defeat. They should also take note of how the Boss manages their resources, particularly money. Through trial and error, these birth dates will learn what true power looks like through the Boss’ own plight. 

Born on the 9th, 18th, and 27th: The Altruist

Being kind in a cruel world is difficult for those born on the 9th, 18th, and 27th. According to numerology, these birth dates naturally embody the compassion and spiritual evolution of 9. People born on these dates are typically selfless, compassionate individuals. However, their kindness might have been taken for granted one too many times. Plus, they could also feel discouraged if they feel like it’s not making a difference. Just when all hope is lost, the Altruist arrives. The Altruist is just like these birth dates, but the key difference is that the Altruist hasn’t lost their hope. The Altruist genuinely believes that each action or kind word has a positive ripple effect. However, the Altruist also has boundaries. People born on these dates will feel renewed by the Altruist, since this person will remind them to do good within their means.

UP NEXT:’

Steven Spielberg's Blockbuster Film Was Just Crowned 'The Best Thriller of All Time'

Mon, 08/24/2026 - 12:51pm

Throughout the history of cinema, audiences have flocked to thrillers to experience suspenseful mysteries and dangerous moments in the safety of a theater. However, while many thrillers are engaging watches, only a handful of films from the genre are considered movie masterpieces. For instance, the publication Collider showcased the best the genre has to offer with a ranking titled “the 35 best thrillers of all time.”

Some thrilling films included in the list, published on August 24, are Oldboy, released in 2003, 2007’s Zodiac, Se7en from 1995, and The Night of the Hunter from 1955. The list’s top five movies featured 2001’s Mulholland Drive, Parasite from 2019, The Silence of the Lambs from 1991, and 1960’s Psycho. The 1975 blockbuster Jaws, directed by Steven Spielberg, took home the title of “the best thriller of all time.”

According to Collider, Jaws, which has a score of 97 percent on Rotten Tomatoes, has plenty of tense and frightening scenes without being gratuitous or too flashy.

Steven Spielberg Shared Why He Was Immediately Interested in Directing ‘Jaws’

In the 2025 National Geographic documentary, Jaws @ 50: The Definitive Inside Story, Spielberg shared that he came across the galley proof of Jaws, adapted from Peter Benchley‘s 1974 novel, when he was visiting film producer Richard Zanuck‘s office to discuss his next project.

“I looked at the top sheet, and it said Jaws, by Peter Benchley. And I had no idea what that meant, Jaws. I mean, was it the history of dentistry?” quipped the director. “I read it and I was enthralled.”

He then explained that he was immediately interested in directing the shark movie because it had a similar theme to his 1971 film, Duel.

“In a way, Jaws was a sequel to Duel. Duel was this murderous Leviathan on the highway trying to kill this traveling salesman in a little car. And Jaws is the story of this Leviathan of the sea that is rendering this seaside resort into bankruptcy unless they hire somebody to kill the threat,” explained Spielberg, now 79.

He said while he was told “there’s already a director assigned” to the movie, he was called in “a week or so later,” asking if he “want[ed] to do it.”

“I was as hungry as the shark was hungry to tell the story of Jaws. And I didn’t know how it was going to be done, how it could be done,” said Spielberg.

He said, however, that he knew that he “needed authenticity so the shark wouldn’t get laughed at” and “wanted to go to the natural environment so there was some kind of verisimilitude” for the film.

“So, it needed to be in the ocean, out to sea. And so, I knew somehow it had to be done on location,” said Spielberg during the interview for Jaws @ 50: The Definitive Inside Story.

Macy's 'Gorgeous' 60%-Off Fall Birthstone Earrings Are a Personalized Way to 'Look Like a Million Bucks'

Mon, 08/24/2026 - 12:48pm

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

Birthstone jewelry has always had a little extra magic behind it. Unlike a trend piece you wear for a season and forget about, a birthstone accessory feels like it was picked with a story already attached — a nod to your birth month, a favorite person, a special memory, or simply a color that feels unmistakably you.

For anyone looking to add a little sparkle to their jewelry box without spending a fortune, Macy’s is making it easy with the Birthstone Cushion Halo Solitaire Stud Earrings. Originally $55, they’re now 60% off, bringing the price down to just $22. The sparkling halo design gives this pair a timeless feel, making them an easy choice for celebrating a milestone, and right now they’re on sale in a selection of fall birthstones.

Birthstone Cushion Halo Solitaire Stud Earrings, $22 (was $55) at Macy’s

Courtesy of Macy's

Shop at Macy's

These halo stud earrings deliver the look of fine jewelry with a colorful, personal twist. Each earring features a cushion-cut simulated birthstone framed by a delicate halo of sparkling cubic zirconia, creating extra brilliance without overwhelming the center stone. The polished silver-plated setting keeps the vibrant gemstone looking crisp and luminous. Measuring just 5/16 inch in diameter, the studs are substantial enough to make a statement yet refined enough for everyday wear. Designed with secure push-back closures, they should stay comfortably in place from morning to night.

The collection is currently available in three birthstone-inspired colors, allowing you to choose a shade that celebrates your birth month or simply your favorite hue. For example, October’s opal-like stone offers a muted, rainbow-tinted hue, November’s citrine glows with warm honey-gold tones, and December’s blue topaz brings a rich blue pop that feels especially elegant. Whether you’re shopping for yourself, commemorating a birthday, or choosing a meaningful gift, the colorful stones give these classic studs a more personalized feel while remaining timeless enough to wear year-round.

The classic silhouette makes these earrings incredibly versatile to style, pairing just as effortlessly with a crisp white button-down and jeans as they do with a cocktail dress or tailored blazer. Wear them solo for a refined pop of color, or stack them with dainty huggies, pavé hoops, and simple cuffs if you have multiple piercings. Because each stone represents a birth month, they also layer beautifully with birthstone necklaces, initial pendants, and other meaningful jewelry for a look that feels both personal and polished.

Jewelry lovers shared their adoration for these “absolutely gorgeous” and “beautiful” studs in the reviews section, saying that the design makes them “look like a million bucks.” One Macy’s shopper said that the “very sparkly” cut garners “so many compliments.”

Related: Walmart’s Beautiful $21 Birthstone Necklace Brings the Toi Et Moi Trend to Your Collection for 76% Less

This is one birthday gift you don’t have to wait for. Shop the Birthstone Cushion Halo Solitaire Stud Earrings at Macy’s while they’re still 60% off! 

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.

Anthony Hopkins Reveals the Music He's Written for 60 Years

Mon, 08/24/2026 - 12:43pm

For millions of moviegoers, his voice belongs to a screen villain talking about a questionable meal with fava beans and chianti. Learning that the same man has poured a lifetime of tenderness into music, largely away from the cameras, changes how you might see a man you thought you knew.

Anthony Hopkins released his album Life Is a Dream on Aug. 21 through Decca Classics, a collection of original compositions performed by the Philharmonia Orchestra and conducted by Grammy winner Gustavo Dudamel. The 12 pieces were written across more than six decades, some of them started when he was very young.

The Oscar winner, 88, was born in Port Talbot, Wales, and began playing piano at age four, long before acting entered the picture. He has said music was his first love, a passion that ran parallel to a screen career built on roles like Hannibal Lecter and his Academy Award-winning turn in The Father. He signed with Decca as a composer earlier this summer, according to the album’s release details.

Related: Barry Manilow Forced Off Stage, Cancels Two More Vegas Shows

The record is built from deeply personal source material. Its lead single, “Bracken Road,” comes from a suite Hopkins traces back to improvisations at an upright piano decades ago. Other works nod to his homeland, including a piece inspired by traditional Welsh melodies, while soloists including pianist Sergio Tiempo and cellist Gregorio Nieto join the orchestra across the program. The album runs about 67 minutes and folds in choral passages from the Bach Choir and the Boy Choristers of Winchester Cathedral.

Hopkins is releasing the album just a year after he and his wife lost their home in the 2025 Los Angeles wildfires, and he told ABC’s Classic Breakfast that one of his compositions was used at the reopening of a rebuilt Pacific Palisades village. He said he was glad his music could lift spirits, and noted the couple was preparing to move into a new home.

This is not his first venture into recorded music. Hopkins released a classical album called Composer in 2012 that topped the UK classical chart, and he previously performed his Life Is a Dream program with a full orchestra in Riyadh in early 2025. Hopkins has described the pieces as autobiographical and deeply personal. The new release formalizes that work with one of classical music’s most celebrated conductors at the podium.

I’m not generally a classical music listener, but I sat through the entire album (available on Spotify) and found it delightful. It’s a reminder that the people we watch on screen often carry entire creative lives we rarely get to hear.

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

'RHOSLC’s Jen Shah Is Ready to Taste Freedom, But Do Fans Want Her Back on TV?

Mon, 08/24/2026 - 12:42pm

Jen Shah is getting closer to full freedom, but not everyone is ready to welcome the former Real Housewives of Salt Lake City star back to their screens.

Shah, who was sentenced to 78 months in prison after pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud, was released from federal prison in December 2025 and has been serving the remainder of her sentence under home confinement. Shah is anticipated to complete her sentence on Friday, Aug. 28, Page Six reports.

As that restriction nears its end, fans are already debating whether Bravo should give her another platform. Some are demanding she stay off RHOSLC, while others are calling for her return, proving Shah still knows how to divide the fanbase.

A source told Page Six that Shah wants to “put this chapter behind her, get back to work and continue her journey of making things right.” But how did fans react to that statement?

One person responded to Page Six’s X thread about Shah, asking if she plans to “pay back all the money she stole from seniors,” while another wondered what work she plans to do. Others were skeptical that prison and home confinement weren’t enough punishment for her crimes, arguing that she “hurt people” and destroyed their lives.

View this post on Instagram

Beyond her plans to return to society, RHOSLC fans were divided over the possibility of Shah returning to the show. Some pointed out that if Teresa Giudice returned to The Real Housewives of New Jersey after serving her prison sentence, Shah should be able to do the same.

Some fans thought having Shah return could provide some delicious drama. “Can’t wait for her to knock on Heather Gay’s door!” one person wrote, while others suggested she return to give Gay another black eye.

Others, however, vowed never to watch RHOSLC again if producers allowed her back on the series. Of course, some fans also questioned why other Housewives have returned to their shows after serving time, while Shah seemingly isn’t being considered for a comeback.

For now, however, producers have remained firm in their decision not to allow Shah to return to the show.

'Fast & Furious' Stars Remember Late Actor Paul Walker 25 Years After Original Movie's Release: 'It’s Haunting for Us'

Mon, 08/24/2026 - 12:40pm

After two decades, several sequels and a spinoff film, the Fast & Furious franchise is officially celebrating its 25th anniversary.

With its original installment landing in theaters in summer 2001, the franchise has re-released The Fast and the Furious to celebrate the occasion. Along with the re-released film, a new clip focuses on series stars Vin Diesel and Jordana Brewster discussing the life and career of Paul Walker, one of the principal stars of the first six Fast films before his tragic death in 2013 (via Entertainment Weekly).

In said clip, Brewster said of Walker, “He was very private and authentic and grounded. But he would say, ‘If anyone comes up to me and they call me Brian, I open my arms and talk to them or sign whatever they want me to sign.’”

Diesel had similarly complimentary words to share about his late co-star.

“When the character you create consumes you, what happens when you say, ‘I will always be Brian,’” Diesel said. “If you come up to me and you say, ‘Hey Paul,’ I’m less apt; I know that you’re not really coming after me because of a character that I’ve invested so much of my heart into, so much of my soul into. So when he says, ‘I will always be Brian,’ it’s haunting for us, because he is always Brian.”

In a previous interview with Entertainment Weekly, Diesel went in to further detail about Walker’s personal affinity for being called his character’s name from the Fast films.

“To be the vessel of a character to this degree for decades, what you end up finding is that you’re pulling from your real life; it becomes that personal,” Diesel said at the time. “For so long he’s played this character, he’s adopted part of the character and the character’s adopted part of him. And maybe in this Fast universe, as complicated as it is, life is a little simpler.”

Pages

Sullivan Independent News

Sullivan Independent News
411 Scottsdale
Sullivan, MO 63080

Phone: 573-468-6511
Fax: 573-468-4046

 

general@sullivannews.net
sports@sullivannews.net
advertising@sullivannews.net
billing@sullivannews.net