Parade
Martha Stewart’s ‘Pretty’ Striped Botanical Duvet Set Is an Elegant Cottagecore Upgrade for 58% Off
Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.
When your interior decor needs a refresh, who better to count on for home decorating inspiration than Martha Stewart? The television personality has amazing collections that will easily spruce up your living space at a budget price. We’ve been shopping at Wayfair lately for big discounts on the mogul’s most popular items, like the Martha Stewart Verbena Stripe Blue Duvet Cover Set, which is up to 58% off now.
The cottagecore-inspired set originally cost $150, but has been reduced to as low as $63 in the twin size. The set is also on sale in two more sizes: queen ($88) and king ($95). The larger sets include one duvet cover and two matching pillow shams, while the twin size only includes one standard size pillow sham. The bedding is made from 100% cotton, so it’s breathable enough to be used all year round.
Martha Stewart Verbena Stripe Blue Duvet Cover Set, From $63 (was $217) at Wayfair Shop at WayfairDue to the material, the soft duvet set is machine washable. This makes it the perfect option for families too (especially those with kids who are living in dorms this school season). The duvet cover has four inner corner ties and an oversized button closure that you can fasten to the insert so it doesn’t shift significantly while you’re sleeping. One of our favorite features, however, is the fact that the bedding is reversible, so you’re essentially getting two designs in one.
One side features blue and white floral graphics with polka dots and stripes, while the other side follows the same color profile but is decorated with small flowers. Plus, the end of the duvet is tailored in a straight edge to look extremely elegant and clean. Shoppers described the bedding as “very pretty” and “great quality.”
The beauty of this duvet is that it’s unique enough to stand out, but also minimalist enough that you can place it anywhere in your home. You can use it for the master bedroom, kid’s bedrooms, and guest bedrooms. If the blue coloring isn’t necessarily your style, Martha Stewart’s collection also includes this stunning cotton green quilt set, which is on sale and selling fast.
Shop More Deals- Ryden Upholstered Faux Leather Counter Stool with Wooden Legs, $239 (was $500) at Wayfair
- Godina 2-Drawer Solid and Manufactured Wood Nightstand, $279 (was $329) at Wayfair
- 12-Piece Stoneware Dinnerware Set, $79 (was $99) at Wayfair
If you’re looking to incorporate countryside vibes into your home, then this striped duvet set is a great choice. Thanks to Martha Stewart, it’s comfortable and luxurious at a reasonable price. Add the bedding to your Wayfair cart while it’s up to 58% 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.
Ken Jennings' Wife Named Her Favorite 'Jeopardy!' Host—See Who It Is
Ken Jennings just revealed his wife’s favorite Jeopardy! host. And no, it isn’t him.
Jennings recently shared the answer with PEOPLE, explaining that his wife, Mindy Jennings, actually prefers Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
When asked about her choice, Jennings said, “He was a solid guest host.” The current permanent Jeopardy! host continued, “When I tried to figure out why, I was like, ‘Honey, you know I was a guest host, too.’ And she was like, ‘ Well, he’s very handsome.’”
Aaron Rodgers. (Photo by Rich Graessle/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)Rodgers’ first appearance on the game show was in 2015, when he won Celebrity Jeopardy!, defeating Shark Tank’s Kevin O’Leary and astronaut/U.S. Senator Mark Kelly. He later guest-hosted the show (in 2021) following the death of Alex Trebek.
Before Rodgers’ stint as guest host, he told Jeopardy!, “When I came on the show in 2015 and got to do Celebrity Jeopardy!, I just saw how special this environment was.” He added, “I remember thinking, this would be like a dream job.”
Of course, Rodgers wasn’t new to the show. He also shared, “There’s a lot of nostalgia, I think, wrapped up in this show for me because I used to watch it when I was a kid…The voice of Alex, it was one of those voices of my youth.” Rodgers had the opportunity to meet Trebek during Celebrity Jeopardy! in 2015, musing years later, “When he came into the room it was like everything kind og got quiet. It was like, ‘Oh my God, there’s Alex Trebek.”
The NFL star also compared hosting to playing football, saying, “The key to being football smart is the focus. And the key to being really good at this game, or good at hosting, is that same focus.”
Even though Jennings isn’t his wife’s top pick as guest host, he does hold the record for the longest victory streak in the show’s history—with 74 wins (totaling $2.52 million) in 2004. He told PEOPLE, “ I was pushing 30 when I went on Jeopardy! And we were kind of doing okay. My wife and I had just had our first baby, and we’d just bought a little starter home right outside Salt Lake City, Utah.”
Ken Jennings. (Photo by Robin L Marshall/Getty Images)Jennings went on to say, “I was a computer programmer—it was going okay. The only thing is I didn’t love my job. Like, I wasn’t a very good programmer.”
Luckily, Jeopardy! Came along and gave him a chance to do something he truly loves. After guest-hosting in 2021, he was named a permanent co-host (with actress Mayim Bialik) in 2022, and in 2023 it became a permanent solo gig.
'80s Rocker Cancels Tour Just Hours After 'Comeback' Show
Bret Michaels was forced to cancel all upcoming performances just hours after his opening show due health issues.
“Following Bret Michaels’ comeback show at The Bowl at Sugar Hill, doctors and paramedics determined immediately after the show that he still needs additional rest and recovery from his recent surgeries. Bret will be taking the next several months off to heal and get back to 100 percent,” a statement shared via Michaels’ Facebook profile on Saturday, August 22, read.
According to the statement, the decision was made by Michaels’ doctors.
“We will be pulling Bret off the road for the time being. He wanted to attempt this show, but we feel there is a much-needed period of rest and slow recovery ahead, especially considering the heat and humidity during the summer months and the effect it can have on his blood sugar levels,” his doctors said.
Michaels and his company, Michaels Entertainment Group, apologized to fans who were excited to see the Poison artist live.
“Our deepest apologies from Michaels Entertainment Group, as we were truly looking forward to the rest of this year’s shows, including The Mountain Music Festival, private events and all the great shows coming up,” the statement continued. “We now look ahead and to Bret being able to return healthy, strong and ready to rock.”
The “Every Rose Has Its Thorn” rocker, 63 — who recently underwent multiple kidney stone surgeries — was scheduled to perform at Mountain Music Festival on Saturday.
Just one day prior, Michaels claimed he was “excited” to return to the stage after a series of medical issues.
“For the first time ever, and after the recent surgery, I may be wearing the infamous black travel rock ‘n’ roll sweatpants 🎸 But I will be giving 100% of everything I’ve got!” he shared via Facebook on Friday.
‘1984’ Rock Hit, Revived 20-Plus Times by Its Own Band, Marked the End of an Era
On Aug. 18, 1984, Van Halen’s “Panama” peaked at No. 13 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 2 on the Mainstream Rock charts. It also appeared on their landmark album, appropriately titled 1984. That’s a lot of numbers to essentially say one thing: The band had a certified hit on its hands.
🎬 SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬
In fact, Van Halen loved the song so much, they returned to it at least 22 times over the years, with their many lead singers, solo projects, and high-profile collaborations giving fans all the “Panama, oh-oh-oh-oh” they could handle.
View this post on InstagramAccording to Rolling Stone, which recently highlighted 22 different versions of the song, “Panama” is the “perfect distillation of the Van Halen sound in just three minutes and 30 seconds. If someone who has never heard Van Halen before wanted to understand the band, this is the song to play for them. It’s a sleek showcase for the talents of all four members.”
From the original studio recording in 1984 to former lead singers Sammy Hagar and David Lee Roth bringing the song back to the stage in 2026, “Panama” has continued to get a ton of play. But the song also marked the end of something: It was the final Top 20 hit of the David Lee Roth era.
The song, which Roth said he and his bandmates wrote in response to accusations that Van Halen sings only about beautiful women, good times, and fast cars, sounds like it might wade into politics. But in reality, Roth’s answer was a cheeky mishmash of mixed metaphors, all of them pointedly circling back to beautiful women and fast cars.
As rock lore tells it, “Panama” has been linked either to a drag racer named Panama Express or a 1969 Opel Kadett station wagon featured on the wall of one of Roth’s homes, with lyrics such as “Here she comes, full blast and top down,” “Don’t you know she’s coming home to me?” and “Out an on-ramp coming through my bedroom,” all cleverly scripted to mean multiple things.
Truth is, as Rolling Stone noted, the song’s precise origins remain impossible to pin down.
Released in June 1984 as a single, “Panama” is the third track on Van Halen’s sixth studio album, 1984. It spent the summer climbing the Billboard charts, with a healthy boost from MTV playing the official music video on heavy rotation. Featuring Roth’s real-life customized 1951 Mercury and revving sounds from Eddie Van Halen’s actual 1972 Lamborghini, the song’s impact shifted into high gear.
As “Panama” became the last hit for the band before Roth left to pursue a solo career, it bookended an era that produced six albums and hits like “Jump” (their only No. 1), “I’ll Wait,” “Hot for Teacher,” and “Panama,” beginning with their debut, “You Really Got Me,” a cover of The Kinks’ foundational rock anthem.
In 1986, Van Halen ushered in their Sammy Hagar era with 5150, which delivered its own set of hits including “Why Can’t This Be Love,” “Dreams,” “Love Walks In,” and “Best of Both Worlds,” all of which tamp down the theatrics for more melodic delivery courtesy of Hagar’s vocals, but still stay true to the rock backbone of the band.
But according to Ultimate Classic Rock, the Red Rocker has a favorite, and it’s not anything he produced himself. It’s “Panama.”
“‘Panama’ is my favorite,” he told the outlet in October 2025. “It’s a really fun song to play and sing. It’s badass.”
It’s also a Hollywood favorite, with “Panama” appearing in movies and television shows including Superbad, Family Guy, and It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia. The song, per Songfacts, even soundtracked a 2025 Super Bowl commercial for Ram Trucks starring Glen Powell.
More than four decades later, “Panama” isn’t just a Van Halen classic with more than 20 different versions; it’s the everyman’s everysong that keeps finding new places to roar.
Related: 2000 Song, Featuring a Tool Legend, Voted Greatest Heavy Metal Duet of All Time
Meghan Markle Reportedly Dropped From Netflix Series Amid Backlash Over U.K. Move
Meghan Markle has reportedly been dropped from Guy Ritchie‘s The Gentlemen.
According to Tina Brown, former editor-in-chief of Vanity Fair and The New Yorker, the decision was made due to backlash in the U.K.
“I learned this morning that the casting of Meghan Markle in season 3 of Guy Ritchie’s Netflix series The Gentlemen has been withdrawn,” Brown wrote on Substack on Saturday, Aug. 21. “The backlash in the U.K. was so intense, it became untenable to go forward. This does not bode well for Meghan’s acting comeback in the U.K.”
One day earlier, The Hollywood Reporter claimed that the former Suits actress was in “advanced discussions” to join season 3 of the series, which films in the U.K. The Gentlemen has not yet been renewed for another season.
The news comes just days after Meghan and Prince Harry made the shocking announcement that they, along with their children Archie, 7, and Lilibet, 5, would be moving back to the U.K. while retaining their home in Montecito, Calif. Brown reported that Markle’s potential acting role was a significant factor in the decision.
Season 2 of The Gentlemen premieres on Thursday, Sept. 3, and stars Theo James as Edward “Eddie” Horniman, the estranged second son of a British Duke who unexpectedly inherits the massive family estate after his father’s death. Ritchie adapted the series as a spin-off of his 2019 film of the same name.
The Duchess of Sussex’s potential role in The Gentlemen would have marked her first return to acting after she left Suits and stepped away from the profession in 2017 when she got engaged to Prince Harry.
So far, there is no official word from Markle or Netflix on whether the reports are true.
🎬SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox🎬
The Sweet Treat Collab You Didn’t Know You Needed
The hazy days of August bring slower weekends, a break from the sweltering heat and a reminder that autumn is just around the corner. Pumpkin spice lattes (and pumpkin-flavored everything) are already hitting shelves, along with Halloween candy and holiday advent calendars. (Hot take: advertising those in August is way too early. Give me a few more weeks of summer, please.)
That’s where Voodoo Doughnut and Captain Morgan come in, inviting fans to take one last trip to paradise with a limited-edition doughnut inspired by the flavors of a piña colada. According to Sporked, The Piña Colada Paradise doughnut will be available for just one week, from Aug. 24 through Aug. 30, at nine participating Voodoo Doughnut locations across Colorado, Florida and Texas.
And this is not exactly a minimalist doughnut. The $4.50 treat starts with piña colada-flavored frosting, followed by a strawberry frosting drizzle, pineapple fluff and toasted coconut. It’s finished with Captain Morgan’s signature crossed-swords logo.
View this post on InstagramThe tropical creation was inspired by Captain Morgan’s Sliced Colada Variety Pack, which features piña colada, strawberry colada, mango colada and passionfruit colada flavors. But honestly, the doughnut sounds like a vacation all on its own, albeit a very short one.
Founded in Portland, Oregon, in 2003, Voodoo Doughnut has become known for its extra and over-the-top creations, making this doughnut feel right at home.
Summer is winding down, and this doughnut is disappearing even faster. If a tropical treat sounds like the perfect way to squeeze out the last bit of summer, you’ll want to make your move before August 30.
At 43, Anne Hathaway Unveils a Dramatic New Look
Anne Hathaway is shaking things up. The actress rocked a pixie cut in the September cover issue of Vogue China.
The 43-year-old was dressed in a white Louis Vuitton blazer with black details and a chunky Bulgari necklace.
View this post on InstagramHathaway’s new look comes after a very busy year. She has been booked and busy with press tours for her many projects this year, including Mother Mary, The Odyssey, The End of Oak Street, The Devil Wears Prada 2, and soon Verity.
This is the shortest hair the actress has had in over a decade. Back in 2012, Hathaway shaved her head on camera while playing Fantine in Les Misérables. The role earned her the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. As her hair grew back, she wore a short pixie cut into 2013.
NEW YORK, NY – JUNE 11: Anne Hathaway attends the Stella McCartney Spring 2012 Presentation at Stella McCartney Store on June 11, 2012 in New York City.(Photo by Jamie McCarthy/WireImage)
The Brokeback Mountain actress told Glamour in a 2012 interview that she was “shaking like a leaf” when she shaved her head, but soon that fear made her feel like the “coolest girl in the world.” Hathaway added that she noticed, “People are warmer to me.”
“Also, I’m a fairly shy person, and [in the past] on days when I didn’t want to deal with the world, I’d wear a hat and pull my hair around me and hide,” she continued. “I can’t do that now. I have to be me all the time.”
It is unclear if her new chop is actually the work of a wig.
Costco Is Selling 'Very Comfortable and Affordable' Sneakers That Have the Perfect Fit for Wide Feet
If you have wide feet, finding shoes that fit comfortably can definitely be a bit of a challenge. Well, if that is you and you need new sneakers but don’t want to break the bank to find a solid pair, Costco has you covered with these sleek sneakers from the brand Khombu.
Khombu’s Women’s Sneakers retail for $14.97 per pair and come in two colors: white or black. Constructed out of a breathable material that feels super lightweight and comfortable to wear, these shoes are perfect for walking, jogging and running.
🎬 SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬
Khombu Women’s Sneaker, $14.97 at CostcoCostco
These sneakers also boast a memory foam insole that adds extra support. You will feel nice and stable wearing these. These will be comfortable to wear, whether you’re running errands all day long or heading out on a walk or to the gym. These will help you go the distance.
Related: This Walking Pad at Best Buy Is a Sleek Upgrade for Any Home Office
Costco shoppers love these shoes, giving them an average rating of four stars on Costco.com. Fans appreciate them for their comfortable fit, especially for wide feet.
“Great sneaker!! Very comfortable and affordable. If you have wide feet, the fit will be perfect. The only reason I gave a four-star rating is because I didn’t like the shoe string,” wrote one fan in a four-star review on Costco’s website.
“I bought these shoes for my daughter that has plantar fasciitis. Most shoes have been hurting her feet, so we decided to give these shoes a try and they are great. She hasn’t been complaining any more about her feet hurting. She is able to walk and run for longer periods of time. The shoes are comfortable, wide and offer great support where needed. I would buy these again,” said another happy Costco shopper in a five-star review on Costco.com.
You can find these comfy sneakers on Costco.com or in select Costco stores. The shoes are available in women’s whole sizes six through 11 and women’s half sizes 6.5 through 8.5. Each pair retails for $14.97.
Related: Costco Is Selling Chic Strappy Sandals That Feel Like ‘Walking on a Cloud’
Usain Bolt's 40th Birthday Celebration Ended With a Surprise No One Saw Coming
Usain Bolt just turned 40 with a big bash to make the occasion — but the birthday celebration wasn’t the night’s only big milestone.
The eight-time Olympic gold medalist surprised longtime girlfriend Kasi Bennett by getting down on one knee during his birthday celebration and asking her to marry him. The couple shares three children: daughter Olympia Lightning Bolt, 6, and 5-year-old twin sons Saint Leo and Thunder Bolt.
View this post on InstagramIn a video shared by an onlooker to Instagram, the romantic proposal took place in front of family and friends, with Bolt telling the crowd that the pair had been together 14 years and that Bennett had given him “three wonderful kids,” adding that he had been “promising” to marry her.
He then fell to one knee and presented the stunning diamond ring to a visibly shocked Bennett, who quickly accepted his proposal as Bruno Mars‘ hit “Marry You” blared over the speakers.
View this post on InstagramThe engagement came during what was already an emotional weekend for the sprinting legend. Ahead of the proposal, Bennett celebrated Bolt’s milestone birthday with a heartfelt tribute on social media.
“Happy 40th Birthday to my forever,” she wrote alongside a collection of family photos. “Thank you for being the best partner, father and best friend. Here’s to celebrating you today and always.”
View this post on InstagramThe surprise proposal marked the latest chapter in one of sports’ longest-running celebrity relationships.
Bolt and Bennett have largely kept their romance out of the spotlight despite years of public appearances together. Over the years, Bolt has spoken about not rushing into marriage, previously explaining that he wanted to build a strong foundation for their family before taking that next step.
Bolt previously said he never wanted to rush into marriage. In a 2016 interview with People, he explained that he hoped to build the same kind of lasting relationship his parents have.
“I want to have what my parents have,” he said. His parents dated for a decade before getting married. “I want to take my time to make sure everything is perfect.”
Chase Stokes Reveals Scary Health Crisis After Wrapping 'Outer Banks'
When Netflix‘s Outer Banks premiered, Chase Stokes was 27 years old but playing a 16-year-old. As often happens with TV series, the show’s timeline didn’t track real-world years — sometimes only weeks or months passed between seasons. So while Stokes kept aging in real life, his character, John B. Routledge, barely did.
JONATHAN DAVISS, MADISON BAILEY, CHASE STOKES, AND RUDY PANKOW IN OUTER BANKSNetflix
By the time Season 5 wrapped, Stokes was 33, but John B. was still just 18 or 19. That gap took a real physical toll. Speaking with The Hollywood Reporter, the Valiant One actor revealed he walked away from the show having uncovered a number of serious health problems after years of playing the role.
Chase Stokes’ Health Wake-Up Call“I left that show… My liver was failing, my kidney was failing,” he explained. “I had so many health issues that I had to figure out, and my brain was all out of whack. It was a really important time for me to get my bearings right versus just go back into work and mask it.”
That meant therapy, plus visits to a doctor of internal medicine, where he learned his testosterone levels were “alarmingly low,” among other findings. He wanted to get himself right—physically and mentally—before committing to his next project.
Looking back, Stokes was candid about how serious things had gotten, suggesting that without making changes, his long-term health could have been in real jeopardy.
Reflecting on ‘Outer Banks’ LegacyThe series finale aired August 20, and Stokes says he’s proud of what Outer Banks meant to fans. “I truly never in a million years thought that I would ever be a part of something that had the impact that this character, and this universe, has created,” he admitted. “I’m so grateful that I was a part of something that gave people hope in a very confusing time in human history.”
Carlacia Grant as Cleo, Madelyn Cline as Sarah Cameron, Chase Stokes as John B, Jonathan Daviss as Pope, Madison Bailey as Kiara in Outer Banks.Jackson Lee Davis/Netflix
As for what’s next, Stokes is already looking ahead. Fans hoping to see more of him won’t have to wait long—he has a lead role in AMC‘s NASCAR series, Thunder Road, and he’s made it clear this new chapter is about longevity—both in his career and in taking care of himself along the way.
'Breakfast Club' Star Reveals Why He Passed on 2 John Hughes Classics—and How It Led to a 'Rupture' Until the Director's Death
Anthony Michael Hall is crediting director John Hughes with launching his career, opening up about their creative partnership — and the falling-out that followed — during a candid conversation on Danielle Fishel‘s Teen Beat podcast.
Hall began acting at just eight years old, but it was Hughes who transformed him into one of the defining teen stars of the 1980s. After being cast in National Lampoon’s Vacation (which Hughes wrote), Hughes cast Hall for his next three films in quick succession: Sixteen Candles, The Breakfast Club, and Weird Science.
View this post on InstagramThe partnership hit a snag when Hughes later approached Hall about starring in both Pretty in Pink and Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. Hall passed on both projects, a decision that would strain his relationship with Hughes for years.
Why Anthony Michael Hall Turned Down ‘Pretty in Pink’ and ‘Ferris Bueller’“I think that those films, they were great,” he told Fishel as they reminisced. “You know, I think Jon Cryer is a very nice guy, I’ve met him since. I’ve met Andrew [McCarthy]. I just chose not to make that film.”
“And then with Ferris Bueller, that had actually been written for me by John,” the Brat Pack star continued. “Unfortunately, what happened was, he wanted me to do both films at the time. And I just felt it was important that I kind of move forward.”
“I think that was kind of heartbreaking for him in a way,” Hall added.
Looking back, Hall believes his choice genuinely wounded Hughes, whom he described as far more sensitive than people realized. The two didn’t speak again before Hughes died in 2009 — a “rupture,” as Hall called it, that lasted two decades.
“He was a very sensitive guy, even though he was a so-called adult at the time,” the Reacher star explained. “So I think that hurt his feelings in a way that I didn’t anticipate.”
Life After Hughes: Anthony Michael Hall Joins SNLRather than remaining Hughes’ go-to leading man, Hall pivoted to Saturday Night Live — and found himself reunited with former castmates in the process. Robert Downey Jr. (his Weird Science co-star), Joan Cusack (from Sixteen Candles), and Randy Quaid (National Lampoon’s Vacation) all joined SNL the same season.
View this post on InstagramLooking back now, Hall seems at peace with how it all played out. Hughes may not have gotten his Ferris Bueller, but Hall’s detour to SNL set him on his own path, one that would eventually lead to standout roles in everything from Edward Scissorhands to The Dead Zone to Reacher.
2004 Film Starring Cameron Diaz Was Just Crowned the 'Most Fun Movie of All Time'
While not every excellent film can be considered fun, largely due to its subject matter, there are several masterful movies that continue to delight audiences. For instance, the publication Collider recently released a list of the “the 8 most fun movies of all time.”
The ranking, published on August 20, included entertaining films like 2008’s Mamma Mia!, Some Like It Hot, released in 1959, and Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl from 2003. According to Collider, the second film in the Shrek franchise, 2004’s Shrek 2, is the “most fun movie of all time.” The publication complimented the DreamWorks animated film, co-directed and co-written by Andrew Adamson, for its exploration of Shrek (Mike Myers) and Fiona’s (Cameron Diaz) struggles and worries following their fairytale wedding while still being timelessly funny.
The Oscar-nominated film currently holds a score of 89 percent on Rotten Tomatoes.
Antonio Banderas Discussed Not Interacting With His Castmates While Working on ‘Shrek 2’Despite the chemistry between the characters in Shrek 2, the film’s voice actors did solo recording booth sessions. In a 2004 interview, Eddie Murphy, who played Donkey, and Antonio Banderas, who played Puss in Boots, noted that they rarely interacted with their Shrek 2 castmates. Banderas said the lack of interaction with the film’s cast and crew made watching the finished film that more impressive.
“You realize how wonderful is the team that is working behind, you know, that’s what you realize. Unbelievable, you know, how they put together, not only just the animation, which I think improved totally the first one [2001’s Shrek] and I was totally impressed with the first one already,” said Banderas during the 2004 interview. “But the relationship between the characters because we are not together when you see all of that thing together saying, ‘Oh man, it makes so much sense.’ So they know very well what they’re doing.”
56 Years Ago, Bread’s 'Make It With You' Became a No. 1 Hit Before Aretha Franklin Covered It
At the height of the soft-rock era, Bread scored the biggest hit of its career with “Make It with You.” Written and produced by singer David Gates, the smooth 1970 single became a No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 56 years ago today, on August 22, 1970.
Gates had been around the music business for years by the time Bread broke through. He grew up in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and got his start in the local scene alongside Leon Russell before making the move to California. In the 1960s, he released records as a solo artist, occasionally going by Del Ashley, and picked up work as a songwriter, producer and arranger.
His songs found an audience through other artists, too. Gates wrote “Popsicles and Icicles,” which became a hit for The Murmaids in 1963, and wrote “Saturday’s Child,” later recorded by The Monkees. In 1967, he produced the debut album by Pleasure Fair, whose member Robb Royer would eventually become his bandmate.
Royer introduced Gates to Jimmy Griffin, and the three formed Bread. The group signed with Elektra Records in 1969 and released its self-titled debut album that same year. It failed to make much of an impact, putting pressure on the band to deliver a stronger follow-up.
“Make It with You” was the song that changed things for Bread. Released on the band’s second album, On the Waters, in 1970, it was written and produced by Gates. He and drummer Mike Botts recorded the track, with Gates handling every instrument except drums.
The record became Bread’s first Top 10 hit and their only No. 1 song on the Billboard Hot 100. It also helped On the Waters climb to No. 12 on the Billboard 200. The song finished at No. 13 on Billboard’s year-end Hot 100 chart for 1970.
Bread’s version wasn’t the only way to hear “Make It with You.” Aretha Franklin covered it on her 1971 live album Aretha Live at Fillmore West, putting her own soulful spin on the song.
Bread kept the momentum going with Manna in 1971, Baby I’m-a Want You in 1972 and Guitar Man later that same year. But success couldn’t keep the band together forever.
Royer left in 1971 and was replaced by Larry Knechtel, a session musician who had played on albums including The Beach Boys’ Pet Sounds and Simon & Garfunkel’s Bridge Over Troubled Water. Bread eventually called it quits in 1973.
By the time the group broke up, Bread had become a familiar name in Southern California’s soft-rock scene. Along with Carole King, James Taylor, the Carpenters and the Eagles, the band helped define the easygoing sound that filled FM radio in the early 1970s.
Related: 1964 Pop Song, First Recorded by Lulu, Launched a 15-Year-Old Singer’s Career
1974 Rock Hit, Paying Homage to Wolfman Jack, Still Stands the Test of Time
In the mid-’70s, Canadian rock band The Guess Who brought out a track that would become a major success, both commercially and with fans.
“Clap for the Wolfman” was released as a single in June 1974 and is the second single off the band’s 12th studio album, Road Food. The unique track was written by lead singer Burton Cummings, bassist and vocalist Bill Wallace, and late lead guitarist and songwriter Kurt Winter. It reached No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 and, reportedly, Billboard ranked the song at No. 84 on its list of Top Hot 100 songs of 1974.
The song pays homage to iconic disc jockey Wolfman Jack — real name Robert Weston Smith — whose own vocals feature throughout. Having previously worked with Jack during appearances on the late-night music TV show The Midnight Special, which he would regularly host, The Guess Who asked him to feature on the track.
“A couple of the guys in the band had an idea for a song,” front man Cummings reminisced about the song in a Facebook video posted in Oct. 2024, saying that it “brings back great memories.” “They were going to call it ‘Clap for Napoleon.'”
Cummings shared his concerns for the title and the trucker theme with his bandmates, as he was unsure if it was something that would “catch on with the public.” It was then that he suggested adding Wolfman to the title, before switching up the lyrics and inviting Jack to feature on the song.
“I was originally going to imitate the Wolfman for a few lines, but we somehow got hold of Wolfman,” Cummings said, explaining that the band happened to be in Toronto at the same time as the DJ.
According to American Songwriter, he was initially skeptical of the idea, but once he had heard the track, he jumped on board. In the song, Jack can be heard speaking raspy spoken-word ad-libs, along with on-air DJ chatter and playful howls and growls.
Related: 1972 Glam Rock Song, Written By David Bowie, Became a Legendary Band’s Career-Saving Hit
This Walking Pad at Best Buy Is a Sleek Upgrade for Any Home Office
Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.
If you are looking for ways to get more movement into your everyday life, investing in a walking pad is a fantastic step (pun intendede. These make exercise possible from wherever you please, and you can do so in the privacy of your own home. If that sounds up your alley, Best Buy is selling a great, highly rated option right now.
Brick Attic’s Walking Pad is a sleek upgrade for any home office. However, you can use it anywhere in your home, from your family room to your bedroom. It makes exercise possible from anywhere thanks to its portability. From your desk to in front of your TV in the living room, this walking pad meets you wherever you are. It has a compact design, at only 4.5 inches thick, as well as front wheels, making it easy to move about. What’s more, it has a 300-pound weight capacity.
🎬 SIGN UP for Parade’s Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬
Brick Attic Walking Pad, $119.99 at Best BuyBest Buy
Shop It!This walking pad features a six-percent manual incline to increase your calorie burn. You can run, walk or jog, and it operates quietly at less than 45 decibels.
This walking pad is rated highly on Best Buy’s website, with an average rating of 4.6 stars and 100 percent of reviewers saying they would recommend it to a friend. Fans appreciate it for work-from-home setups, but also like to use it to make exercise more convenient at home.
“I purchased this for my son who works from home and wanted to start moving more. We also purchased a standup desk so he can walk while working. This was just the thing, it is compact and easy to store and he really likes it. I would recommend,” one Best Buy customer in a five-star review on BestBuy.com.
“It’s a great walking pad! It’s been a great addition to my life. I now can walk while I watch TV or listen to music in the privacy of my home,” said another fan in a five-star review on Best Buy’s website.
You can order this walking pad on BestBuy.com. It retails for $119.99.
Related: Aldi’s Striking New Wreath Adds a Touch of Autumnal Elegance to Your Front Door
'90s Rock Legend, Named One of the Greatest Musicians of the Last 40 Years, Releases 'Better Believe' Video
Fans get to hear a different kind of music from the ‘90s rock legend as he releases his new music video.
Eddie Vedder, the iconic frontman of Pearl Jam and one of the “40 Greatest Musicians” of the last four decades, is back with a new song.
Following the impressive live debut of “Better Believe” at the Obama Presidential Center dedication on June 18, the 61-year-old musician proudly announced the release of the song’s official music video.
In an Instagram update, the post featured a teaser that not only showcased Vedder’s distinct voice and powerful stage presence but also highlighted a special collaboration with Guitars Over Guns, a nonprofit organization that focuses on music as a way to mentor and support young people in vulnerable communities.
Eddie Vedder entertains guests before President Barack Obama delivers a farewell speech to the nation on January 10, 2017 in Chicago, Illinois.Through the Obama Foundation, what started as an introduction between Vedder and the organization eventually sparked a real musical project.
The veteran vocalist co-wrote “Better Believe” with Guitars Over Guns participants and collaborators, including Mason Harris, Giselle Castro, Michael “Myskie” Hightower, Naomi Owens, Joy Viltz, Jeremiah Fristoe, Iya Waters and Andre “Add-2” Daniels.
From unique collaborations, the music video highlights the behind-the-scenes process of recording and performing the track, from working in the studio to taking the stage in front of a massive audience, including former President Barack Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama.
Adding to the significance of the collaboration, Vedder shared that the royalties earned from “Better Believe” “will benefit Guitars Over Guns.”
View this post on InstagramThe music video also received praise and positive feedback, with many expressing their admiration for the Pearl Jam vocalist.
“Ed has always been such a sweet soul. I’m so happy for those kids!” one wrote on their YouTube post.
“This is why we’ve loved Pearl Jam for 35 years!” a fan commented.
“This is fabulous! The time you give to youth is so important. These kids need to believe in themselves; they all have something to contribute to our society,” a follower added.
While others were calling Vedder the “GOAT,” a commenter remarked on how “beautiful” it was to witness “how the magic was done.”
“Better Believe” was the Pearl Jam singer’s first song since 2025, when he released a cover of Neil Young’s “The Needle and the Damage Done.”
Interestingly, his latest work adds another notable chapter to his decades-long career.
Founding Member of '80s Pop Rock Band, Behind a No. 1 Hit He Paid Joe Strummer For, Turns 65
Roland Orzabal did not want “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” on his own album.
The beat was the problem. “The shuffle beat was alien to our normal way of doing things,” he said in a 1985 interview resurfaced by Ultimate Classic Rock. “It was jolly rather than square and rigid in the manner of ‘Shout.'”
He had come up with the thing himself. “I tuned the E string down to D and came up with this riff,” Orzabal told Guitar Player in 2024. “I didn’t really think anything of it.” Set against the rest of what he had been writing, he said, “it didn’t have the depth.”
His wife at the time liked it, which gave him pause. “So I thought, Okay, maybe I’m wrong,” Orzabal said.
He turns 65 today.
Chris Hughes Would Not Let It GoProducer Chris Hughes had no doubts at all. Orzabal has said the song would not exist without him, that Hughes “pushed that, 100 percent.” What they were after, Orzabal told Guitar Player, was “some kind of drive-time American hit.”
They got one. It was the last song written and recorded for Songs from the Big Chair, it came together in roughly a week, and Orzabal lifted the title from a line in The Clash’s “Charlie Don’t Surf.”
Joe Strummer noticed. He ran into Orzabal at a restaurant and told him, “You owe me a fiver.” By Strummer’s telling, Orzabal reached into his pocket and handed one over.
The album landed on Feb. 25, 1985. The single hit No. 1 on the Hot 100 on June 8 and held for two weeks. In the U.K. it stopped at No. 2.
Curt Smith Came AroundCurt Smith, who co-founded Tears for Fears with Orzabal, has never dressed up who read it correctly. He has said it was one of those times when “the record company was right and we were wrong.”
Then he went further.
“For America, yes, it was a better first single.”
Walmart Just Dropped ‘Adorable’ Halloween Versions of Its TikTok-Viral Nightgowns, and They’re Only $12
Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.
From cookware and furniture to clothing and decor, Walmart has become a reliable place to find both everyday essentials and seasonal gems. And when shoppers discover something especially good, it tends to make its way onto our feeds, which is exactly what happened with the retailer’s viral nightgowns. These loose, tee-inspired sleep dresses have earned plenty of attention on TikTok for their roomy silhouettes and charming patterns.
@mainstmuseThey’re here! If ya want em: I gathered all the 🔗’s and they’re in my B10 under Walmart storefront then head to my collections! This is my favorite time of year…when Walmart drops their Halloween pajamas and this year we got spoiled. Halloween pajama sets, Halloween pajama dresses and more…and they’re all so incredibly cozy and affordable! #walmarthalloweenpajamas #walmartpjsets #pjset #halloweenpajamas pajamas #martmusthaves walmartfinds
♬ original sound – MainStMuseNow, Walmart is giving the social media favorite a spooky-season makeover. The retailer just dropped the $12 Way to Celebrate Halloween Sleepshirt Top and Socks Set, available in an array of festive prints that are sure to sell out quickly. You could wear one for a cozy night of scary movies, while handing out candy, or just because you believe the frightful festivities should start well before Oct. 31.
Way to Celebrate Halloween Sleepshirt Top and Socks Set, $12 at Walmart Shop at WalmartMade from 93% polyester and 7% spandex, this nightgown’s fabric has a little stretch, while the relaxed cut — available in sizes X-small through 3X — falls loosely from the crewneck to a curved hem. Short sleeves keep it comfortable for lounging, and two side-seam pockets give you somewhere to stash your phone, lip balm, or a few pieces of Halloween candy. Each set also comes with coordinating stretchy socks, so you can keep your toes warm once the season’s chill sets in.
The coffee print looks made for crisp fall mornings, with takeaway cups, iced drinks topped with whipped cream, pumpkin-colored mugs, and blended drinks scattered across a creamy background. Burnt orange, caramel, brown, and cream details give it a cozy coffee-shop palette, while the orange socks with white pumpkins make the set feel especially autumnal.
Way to Celebrate Halloween Sleepshirt Top and Socks Set, $12 at Walmart Shop at WalmartFor a more traditional Halloween look, the orange print features tiny white kittens dressed in jack-o’-lantern costumes, with little pieces of candy scattered throughout. It’s absolutely adorable and a fabulous pick for any animal lover. The matching black socks are covered in candy corn, adding another classic Halloween touch.
The black ghost print takes a sweeter, more botanical approach, with tiny white sheet ghosts floating across the dark background among delicate floral sprigs and leafy stems in pink, yellow, green, and purple. The scattered blooms soften the spooky motif, while the coordinating pink socks feature a floating ghost for a pop of color.
Shop More Deals- Way to Celebrate Hacci Knit Short Sleeve Sleep Top, $10 at Walmart
- Way to Celebrate Halloween Hacci Knit Sleep Pants, $14 at Walmart
- Way to Celebrate Halloween Notched Top and Shorts Pajama Set, $17 at Walmart
Finally, the pale pink print is for the Halloween maximalists. Flying bats, black cats, jack-o’-lanterns, skulls, wrapped candies, masks, potion bottles, and stars are scattered across the blush background, creating the busiest of the four patterns without going completely overboard. Matching pink socks with bold black bats finish the look.
Even though Halloween is months away, Walmart shoppers are getting in on the “Augtober” fun, praising this “super comfortable” and “adorable” set. “The Halloween print is super cute and fun, and the side pockets are a great added touch,” one reviewer wrote.
That same shopper also highlighted the matching socks as a selling point, saying that they are “soft, warm, and complete the look perfectly.”
Related: Kohl’s Adorable $24 Ghost Braided Basket Makes Halloween Decor Surprisingly Practical
Whether you’re relaxing at home or getting a cozy night’s sleep, you’ll look super cute in the Way to Celebrate Halloween Sleepshirt Top and Socks Set. Select sizes are already selling out, so shop it at Walmart now before your favorite print disappears!
Don’t miss future deals! Sign up for Parade Picks to receive our commerce team’s curated selection of discounts and sales, twice a week.
2009 No. 1 Hit Became This Generation’s ‘New York, New York’—But Frank Sinatra Wasn’t the Inspiration
Frank Sinatra and New York City go together like street-cart hot dogs and subway rides, but this century’s most memorable ‘New York’ song surprisingly had little to do with Ol’ Blue Eyes and more to do with homesick songwriters missing their beloved hometown.
In 2009, the catchy hit song celebrating everything from yellow cabs and Broadway to the bright lights of Times Square took the country by storm, eventually becoming nearly as inseparable from New York as Sinatra himself.
Jay-Z’s “Empire State of Mind,” featuring Alicia Keys, became that modern-day anthem, though Keys later released a solo rendition, showing off her pipes over a stripped-down piano arrangement on her 2009 album, The Element of Freedom.
Related: Two Hip-Hop Legends Share Stage for the First Time in 16 Years
What many fans may not know is that Mary J. Blige was originally considered for the future No. 1 hit, which held court at No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot 100 for 5 weeks.
Songwriters Angela Hunte and Janet Sewell-Ulepic were in London in early 2009 when homesickness began setting in. The two “Yankees” found themselves reminiscing about home — even some of the city’s less glamorous quirks.
That longing became the seed for “Empire State of Mind.” British producer Al Shux helped lay the track, while Hunte originally sang the now-famous hook herself.
There was just one problem: Jay-Z wasn’t involved yet.
The song was eventually pitched to his camp, which was initially turned down before reaching the iconic rapper known as “Hov”.
The song received a second life months later when longtime music executive Jon “Big Jon” Platt heard it at a cookout and immediately believed it belonged with Jay-Z. Platt sent it directly to the rapper the following day — and this time, there was no hesitation.
He requested the recordings, wrote his own verses and recorded his piece that same night.
However, the song still needed a voice capable of making its already-powerful hook soar. Enter fellow New Yorker, Alicia Keys.
Related: 2000s Rock Hit, Written While ‘Naked’ and Sick, Remains a Classic 20 Years Later
With lyrics like “I’m the new Sinatra” and “I can make it anywhere,” it’s easy to confuse Sinatra’s influence on the finished product with the song’s original inspiration. Despite the close parallels, Sinatra wasn’t the creative spark behind it — not even one of his songs was sampled for the beat.
Year after year, thousands herd themselves like cattle into Times Square to watch the famous ball drop, followed by a loud serenade of Sinatra’s “New York, New York.”
Though the more modern Big Apple anthem would undeniably be “Empire State of Mind,” especially back in 2016, when Keys performed what fans thought would be a solo rendition, only to be shocked when Jay-Z walked out on stage at the perfect time for his verse, sealing a full-circle moment in the city that inspired it all.
Dwayne Johnson Says Becoming a Disney Legend Comes With One Big Perk — for His Lucky Kids
Dwayne Johnson says becoming an official Disney Legend came with one very important perk — at least, according to the story he told his daughters.
Per People, the Moana star was honored as a Disney Legend during the 2026 Disney Legends Awards in Anaheim, Calif., on Aug. 16. During the event, Johnson revealed that his daughters, Jasmine, 10, and Tiana, 8, were thrilled about the milestone, but also had one big question.
“They said, ‘Congratulations, Daddy, you’re a Disney Legend. What does it mean?'” Johnson recalled.
His response?
“It means we get free tickets to Disney for life,” he joked.
(Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Disney)The actor shares Jasmine and Tiana with his wife, Lauren Hashian. He is also father to 25-year-old Simone Johnson, whom he shares with ex-wife Dany Garcia.
Johnson said his younger daughters even sent him a heartfelt congratulatory video the night before the ceremony, making the honor even more meaningful.
“It’s been a great year for my little girls,” he said, noting that both Jasmine and Tiana also made brief cameos in the live-action Moana film after previously appearing in Moana 2.
The Disney honor recognized Johnson’s contributions to the company’s storytelling legacy, including his beloved role as the voice of Maui in the Moana franchise. He is also set to return as the demigod in the upcoming Moana 3.
(Photo by Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for Disney)Getty Images
Reflecting on the recognition, Johnson said the title means far more than awards or accolades.
“I believe it’s powerful what Disney does,” he said. “What it means, in my opinion, to be a Disney Legend is to treat people good and treat them with kindness and try your best to create experiences for them that are meaningful for them and their families all over the world.”
During his acceptance speech, Johnson also shared a touching memory of taking his eldest daughter, Simone, to Disneyland when she was 5 years old. He recalled watching her close her eyes to make a wish while meeting the Disney princesses. He said the moment has stayed with him ever since.
“It’s just experiences like that that we create that I know she’ll never forget,” Johnson said. “I’ll never forget. That’s the beauty of Disney.”
