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Back in 2010, a movie packed with future Hollywood megastars bombed big time at the box office, with dismal numbers trailing The Expendablesand Eat Pray Love before quietly disappearing from theaters. That movie, of course, was Scott Pilgrim vs. the World.

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Featuring early performances from Brie Larson,Chris Evans, Anna Kendrick, Aubrey Plaza, and Michael Cera, the hyper-stylized comic-book comedy has a very different reputation these days. Widely considered a visionary cult classic, the film has reentered the conversation with Collider ranking it among the wildest box office flops no one saw coming.

But even though the movie tanked, many of its stars soared — perhaps none more dramatically than future Oscar winner Brie Larson.

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At the time, Larson was not yet a household name; she was known mostly for small supporting roles, including appearances in 13 Going On 30 and Greenberg. But as Envy Adams — Scott Pilgrim’s glamorous ex and the icy lead singer of The Clash at Demonhead — Larson suddenly commanded attention. 

The role allowed her to channel both her musical background and razor-sharp comedic timing, especially during the now-infamous “Black Sheep” performance, which fans still obsess over. With her scene-stealing, cool-girl rock star energy, Larson became one of the biggest breakout stories, paving the way for later triumphs including Short Term 12, Room, and the Captain Marvel franchise.

Directed and co-written by Edgar Wright, the film about a guy who has to defeat his new girlfriend's exes to find happiness had a ton of momentum and a massive amount of star power behind it. The buzz at Comic-Con was electric, and early critical reaction was overwhelmingly positive. Still, none of the above translated into dollars.

The film struggled to expand beyond its niche graphic novel fanbase and hit theaters before gamer culture had crossed over into the mainstream. Pummeled by confusing marketing and poor timing, the film earned an estimated $47 million against a $60 million budget. 

In the years that followed, as internet meme culture and comic-book-inspired fare became the status quo, Scott Pilgrim began to look more like a prediction and less like a misfire. Younger audiences discovered the film, older viewers revisited it, and the film’s rep shifted.

At the same time, the cast quietly began to conquer Hollywood, with Evans and Larson entering the Marvel Universe. In hindsight,  Wright’s hyperactive film finally became the language of online culture. In other words: Culture caught up.

In 2016, Larson won an Oscar for her performance in Room. Across the board, the film’s ensemble cast has only become more impressive. What once looked like a colossal Hollywood mistake now feels like a time capsule packed with future icons doing their thing before the rest of the world caught up. 

Scott Pilgrim vs. the World is available to rent or buy on Prime Video.

Related: 1971 Bittersweet Classic With Soulful Soundtrack Ranked Among Greatest Rock Movies

Long before Sean Duffy was the U.S. Secretary of Transportation, the politician was a reality TV star. Way back in the ‘90s (1997 to be precise), Duffy debuted in The Real World: Boston. And now the former congressman is ready to hit the small screen again in a brand-new family-focused reality series, The Great American Road Trip. And no, it has absolutely nothing to do with MTV’s Road Rules.

WASHINGTON, DC - MAY 07: U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy unveils Amtrak’s Freedom 250 Acela Train at Union Station on May 07, 2026 in Washington, DC. The new Amtrak train departed from Union Station and headed to William H. Gray III 30th Street Station in Philadelphia with a group of 4th graders and Secretary Duffy for the train's inaugural ride. (Photo by Heather Diehl/Getty Images) Sean Duffy on The Real World

MTV revolutionized the way viewers watched TV, introducing a fully unscripted series in 1992. The original Real World featured “Seven strangers picked to live in a house, work together, and have their lives taped to find out when people stop being polite and start getting real.” The New York cast struck a chord with Gen X, ushering in the age of reality TV.

Following the show’s NYC season, MTV moved the series to other major cities. Los Angeles, San Francisco (where we first met Duffy’s future wife, Rachel Campos), London, Miami, and then in ‘97…Boston. When Duffy moved into the firehouse with castmates Montana, Syrus, Genesis, Kameelah, Elka, and Jason, he was just a plaid-clad Midwestern competitive lumberjack with an innocent charm. 

Of course, this wasn’t Duffy’s only stint on an MTV reality series. He returned the following year, starring in the spinoff, Road Rules: All Stars. Duffy, and as the show’s name implies, a few other all-stars, crammed into an RV and traveled across the country. New York’s Eric Nies, L.A.’s Jon Brennan, Miami’s Cynthia Roberts, and San Francisco’s Rachel Campos joined Duffy for the road trip of a lifetime. 

Sean Duffy and Rachel Campos-Duffy. (Photo by Taylor Hill/WireImage) Getty Images

Getty Images

In the first episode, Duffy meets his now-wife, Fox News host Rachel Campos-Duffy, saying, “Rachel’s a cool girl, very bubbly…and I like her right off the bat.” And almost 30 years later, the pair are happily married with one (yes, nine!) children. 

Sean Duffy’s New Family Reality Series

Duffy and Campos are going back on the road. But this time, they’re bringing their brood. Even though gas prices are skyrocketing, the rising cost of fuel isn't stopping Duffy from airing his on-the-road family vacation.

The Transportation Secretary quietly filmed his new reality show, The Great American Road Trip,  over the past seven months. In an interview on Fox News, he explained, “I want to lean in to America’s 250th birthday. Rachel and I actually met on a road trip on a reality show. And so over the course of seven months, we just kind of found these moments where I might be able to do some work. I could take the kids with me on a road trip. Oh yeah, and our motto is ‘To love America, is to see America.’ And there’s so much to see in this beautiful country.”

You can watch The Great American Road Trip with the Duffy family online starting this June. 

Being a "boy mom" is like living in a never-ending adventure, where the world is filled with a whirlwind of energy and excitement that leaves behind a trail of laughter and scattered toys. Every day is a new chapter in a story full of curiosity, big dreams and a love so messy and pure that it could fill the entire universe. The best part? After a while, all the chaos of being the mom of a little boy starts to feel like a beautiful kind of magic. To help you hold on to that feeling, we rounded up not one, but 75 of the best boy mom quotes to brighten your day and remind you of just how special the journey truly is.

This collection has something for every boy mom, whether you're looking for playful quotes that capture the fun and mischievous moments of raising boys or heartfelt words that celebrate the unbreakable bond between a mom and son, we have you covered. That way, no matter what kind of relationship you have with your son, or what stage in motherhood you are in, you can find some boy mom quotes that will resonate with you. 

Overall, each quote is a little treasure. Some will leave you laughing, as they perfectly capture those funny, wild moments that make boyhood so unique, while others offering emotional and inspirational insights highlighting the strength and grace required to raise a son will make you smile. So go ahead—immerse yourself in these gems and let them remind you of the beauty and laughter that comes with being a boy mom.

Related: 80 Mother and Son Quotes That Perfectly Capture Your Special Bond With Your Little (or Big!) Boy 

75 Best 'Boy Mom' Quotes 

1. “In the heart of a boy mom, every day is a new chapter filled with love, laughter, and the occasional mystery.” — Unknown

2. “Having a son means watching a piece of your heart walk around outside your body.”
— Gwyneth Paltrow

3. “The love between a mother and her son is a sacred dance of joy, sorrow, and unbreakable ties.” — Unknown

4. “To the world, you are a mother, but to your son, you are his world.” — Unknown

5. “The love between a mother and her son is a sacred, invincible bond that withstands the tests of time.” — Halle Berry

6. “And she loved a little boy very, very much—even more than she loved herself.” — Shel Silverstein

7. “To raise a son is to build the future, one heartfelt moment at a time.” — Unknown

8. “There is an enduring tenderness in the love of a mother to a son that transcends all other affections of the heart.” — Washington Irving

9. ‘Being a boy mom isn’t an easy job, but it is definitely the best job anyone could ever have.’ — Unknown

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10. “A son’s first hero is his mother.” — Unknown

11. “Being a mother of boys is hard, but you can't beat the payment of hugs and kisses.”
— Unknown

12. “In my son’s eyes, I see the future, a hope for a better world, and it inspires me every day.” — Beyoncé

13. “A mother’s love for her son is pure and enduring, like a beacon guiding him through life’s storms.” — Unknown

14. “The laughter of a son is a symphony to a mother’s ears, the sweetest music of her life.”
— Unknown

15. “Children love their mothers. Especially with a boy child and his mother, there’s a bond that’s unbreakable.” — Tyler Perry

16. “The laughter and love of a son bring sunshine into the darkest days. Being his mom is my greatest joy.” — Shakira

17. “A mother is her son’s first god. She must teach him the most important lesson of all—how to love.” — T. F. Hodge

18. “To be a mother of a son is one of the most important things you can do to change the world.” — Shannon L. Alder

19. “Raising a son is like capturing a firefly—brief, magical, and full of light." — Unknown

Related: Relax, Enjoy and Breathe in That New Baby Smell—Here Are 150 New Mom Quotes

'Boy Mom' Quotes for Instagram 

20. “Home is where my boys are.” — Unknown

21. “Planes, trains, trucks, and toys…There’s nothing quite like little boys.” — Unknown

22. How boys say goodnight: “Mom, I need to tell you 346 things I learned about Minecraft today.” — Unknown

23. “Happiness is seeing your boys grow into thoughtful, kind men.” — Unknown

24. “Raising boys has made me a more generous woman than I really am.” — Mary Kay Blakely

25. “My son has two modes: ‘Sleeping angel’ and ‘Why is there syrup on the ceiling?'”
— Unknown

26. “This boy mom runs on lots of love and coffee.” — Unknown

27. “There’s no way to be a perfect mother and a million ways to be a good one.” — Jill Churchill

28. “Boys charm you with their cuteness while destroying every item you own.” — Unknown

29. “The only man who has stolen my heart is my son.” — Sandra Bullock

30. “Forget the fairy tales; my boys are the real adventure.”  —  Unknown 

31. “Sons: Nature’s way of testing your reflexes and your patience simultaneously.” — Unknown

32. “Boy Mom. All day. Every day. And I wouldn’t have it any other way.” — Unknown

33. “Raising boys is an extreme sport, that’s why I wear workout clothes everyday.” — Unknown

Related: 13 Ways to Be a Good Mom That Make a Lasting Difference, According to Experts

Short 'Boy Mom' Quotes

34. “Little boys should never be sent to bed. They always wake up a day older.” — J.M. Barrie

35. “Little boys are just heroes in disguise.” — Unknown

36. “Mothers are inscrutable beings to their sons, always.” — A.E. Coppard

37. “More than mother and son, they were accomplices in solitude.” — Gabriel Garcia Marquez

38. “My house is a disaster zone, but my boys are my masterpiece.” — Unknown

39. “If love is as sweet as a flower, then my mother is that sweet flower of love.” — Stevie Wonder

40. “He may drive me crazy, but someday this boy will change the world.” — Unknown

41. “Heaven on Earth is looking at my little boy.” — Jenny McCarthy

42. “Happy is the son whose faith in his mother remains unchallenged.” — Louisa May Alcott

43. “Life is better with my boys.” — Unknown

44. “Who’s a boy gonna talk to if not his mother?” — Donald E. Westlake

45. “A boy’s best friend is his mother.” — Joseph Stefano

46. “No language can express the power and beauty and heroism of a mother’s love.” — Edwin Chapin

47. ‘’Boymom’ is an experience not a description.” —  Unknown

48. “I live for my sons. I would be lost without them.” — Princess Diana

49. “A mother understands what a child does not say.” — Jewish Proverb

50. ”Boy mom: chaos, noise, and endless love.” — Unknown

51. “With boys, every day is a little magic!” — Unknown

52. “Men are what their mothers made them.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson

53. “Mommy’s little superheroes.” — Unknown

54. “Motherhood: all love begins and ends there.” — Robert Browning

55. “A small son can charm himself into, and out of, most things.” — Jenny de Vries

56. “Raising boys is like living in an action movie.” — Unknown

57. “I have a son who is my heart.“ — Lousia May Alcott

58. “Moms of boys work from son up to son down.” — Unknown

59. “My son’s laughter is my favorite melody.” — Unknown

60. “Sons are the anchors of a mother’s life.” — Sophocles

Related: 7 Signs You Have a Codependent Relationship With Your Mother, According to a Psychologist

Funny 'Boy Mom' Quotes

61. “Sons are the reason moms learn to love dirt.” — Unknown

62. “You never realize how many times you can say, ‘Get your hands out of your pants!’ in a day until you are a mom of boys!” — Jen Florio

63. “Having an infant son alerts me to the fact that every man, at one point, has peed on his own face.” — Olivia Wilde

64. “Boy moms are the only people who can multitask like a ninja while also being covered in mud, slime, and mystery stains.” — Unknown

65. “Little boys can test your patience, run you ragged, and make you want to pull your hair out. But they will also melt your heart with just one look...” — Katie Bingham Smith

66. “A mother is one to whom you hurry when you are troubled.” — Emily Dickinson

67. “Boy moms know that each little boy has a bit of devil and a lot of angel. The key is to accept both.” — Unknown

68. “I raise boys…nothing scares me.” — Unknown

69. “Boy moms don’t cry over spilled milk. We cry over the mess they make when they try to ‘clean’ it up.” — Unknown

70. “You don’t raise heroes, you raise sons. And if you treat them like sons, they’ll turn out to be heroes, even if it’s just in your own eyes.” — Walter M. Schirra, Sr.

71. "Boy moms don’t sleep. We just briefly close our eyes between the sound of crashes and 'Mom, watch this!” —  Unknown

72. “You know you’re a boy mom when everything in your house is either lost, dirty or broken.”
— Unknown

73. “Being a boy mom is a true joy. But you often wonder how you will keep them alive until adulthood.” —  Unknown

74. “With boys you always know where you stand. Right in the path of a hurricane. It’s all there. The fruit flies hovering over their waste can, the hamster trying to escape to cleaner air, the bedrooms decorated in an early bus station restroom.” —  Erma Bombeck

75. “If you’ve debated the acceptable amount of time before changing a pair of underwear, you’re probably a mom of boys.” — Unknown

Related:

With the music scene growing strong in the 1970s, there's no shortage of hits from the era. However, not every amazing and influential '70s song received accolades.

The publication Far Out magazine shared a list of "the 100 most underrated songs of the 1970s." The October 2025 ranking's top five tunes included "Hit or Miss (Live)" by Odetta Robbie, Basho's "Blue Crystal Fire" from 1978, 1978's "Khala My Friend" by Amanaz, and Aphrodite’s Child's "The Four Horsemen," released in 1972.

Link Wray's 1971 song "Fallin' Rain" secured the list's number one spot. According to Far Out, the song, which is the fifth track off the Link Wray album, has deep, dark lyrics, hidden by the light, quirky use of instruments.

Link Wray Opened up about the Making of 'Rumble'

Wray is arguably best known for his 1958 hit, "Rumble." In a later in life interview, the famed guitarist discussed the unusual way he came up with the classic rock song. He explained that he and his band, Link Wray & His Ray Men, including his brother, Doug Wray, were performing at "a record hop in Fredericksburg, Virginia, in 1957" for The Milt Grant Show. Wray recalled that there were "about 5,000 kids" watching him while he played his guitar on stage, as "rock and roll at that time was huge."

"I'm up there playing the old hits. You know, Chuck Berry. Just stuff you know," said Wray, who died in 2005 at the age of 76, in the interview.

Wray explained that The Diamonds were also at the event, and his band had been requested to play their song, "The Stroll." Wray said while he wasn't familiar with the 1957 tune, Doug, the band's drummer, knew the beat. While he performed on the drums, Wray improvised on his guitar, impressing the crowd.

"The kids, they just went ape. We had been there all night long, and the kids didn't pay a bit of attention to us all night long. And so when I started doing the song, they started screaming over me. Because now, something is happening," said Wray. "So Doug, he got so carried away, he just jumped off the drums. And I said, 'Doug, let's finish the song.' So he gets back on the drums, and we had to play it about four times for the kids. They kept hollering and screaming, you know, banging on the stage, 'Play that weird song! Play that weird song!'"

What Wray and his brother came up with on stage ended up being "Rumble."

Trader Joe’s fans know the thrill of the hunt at the popular supermarket chain, with new products popping up on shelves seemingly every week to shoppers’ delight. From new crunchy snacks to freezer finds, Trader Joe’s fans are passionate about what they discover at the chain, and a recent addition has gotten their attention in a major way. 

The chain recently rolled out a new frozen pizza, a Detroit-style pie made with uncured pepperoni, and fans are already taking to social media to call it “incredible” and say that it’s “too dangerous” and that they can never buy it again because of how good it is. 

Related: Trader Joe’s Fans ‘Can’t Wait’ to Try ‘Dangerous’ Dupe of Fan-Favorite Snack

“With its rectangular shape, deep, crispy-edged crust, and golden underside, Detroit-style pizza has been wowing pizza fans and converting thin crust devotees since 1946,” the product description says on the Trader Joe’s website, where it also explains that the pizza features a “bright, garlicky tomato sauce, plenty of Uncured Pepperoni, and Parmesan, Romano, and mozzarella cheeses spread generously from edge to edge.”

Related: Trader Joe’s Brings Back Fan-Favorite Dessert Just in Time for Summer

“Best frozen pizza I have ever had,” said one enthusiastic Reddit user as another wrote that the pizza is a “hard yes.” However, not all of the reviews are positive, with one Redditor, who says they are a Detroit native, writing that “It was fine but the crust was waaaayyyy doughier than any of the real Detroit pizza places here (Buddy's, Loui's, Green Lantern, etc),” before admitting that while it’s not as authentic as something they can get in their hometown, “this was far and away the best frozen pizza I've had from TJ's. The sauce was actually pretty similar to what I find on pizzas from the local places.” 

Others said they like it but suggest adding extra toppings to take it to the next level, from sliced onions to mozzarella balls. Several also suggested giving it a tiny bit more time in the oven to crisp the crust more. 

Next: Trader Joe’s Brings Back Divisive Frozen Item

Italian sausage feels like one of those foods that should be easy to cook well. Throw it in a pan, brown it up and dinner’s done. Somehow, though, it’s also really easy to mess up. Sometimes the casing splits before the inside is fully cooked, while other times the sausage turns dry and tough or never develops that deep browned crust that makes it so satisfying to bite into and eat.

Part of the problem is that everybody seems to have a different opinion on how to cook Italian sausage. Some people swear by the stove, others prefer the oven or air fryer, and there’s still plenty of disagreement over whether you should poke holes in the casing before cooking. A lot of home cooks grow up doing things one specific way without ever really knowing if it actually makes the sausage better.

To find out what works best, we spoke with Paul Bertolli, a James Beard Award-winning chef and master salumiere who has spent decades making traditional Italian sausages and cured meats. Bertolli previously led acclaimed California restaurants like Chez Panisse and Oliveto before founding Fra’ Mani Handcrafted Foods, a company known for its handcrafted Italian-style salumi and sausages.

According to Bertolli, a few small changes in technique can make Italian sausage taste noticeably better at home.

Related: 12 Summer Sausage Recipes That Will Have You Craving Cured Meat Boards All Season Long

Courtesy Fra' Mani

What Is Italian Sausage?

Italian sausage is a type of pork sausage seasoned with flavors commonly used in Italian cooking, especially fennel, garlic and black pepper. In most grocery stores, it’s usually sold as sweet or hot Italian sausage, with the hot version containing red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Italian sausage is commonly sold in links, though ground Italian sausage is popular too, especially for pasta sauces, soups and pizzas.

You’ll also usually find two different types at the store: fresh Italian sausage and fully cooked Italian sausage. Fresh sausage needs to be fully cooked before eating, while fully cooked sausage mainly needs to be reheated and browned before serving.

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What Makes It Different Than Regular Sausage?

Oksana Mizina / Shutterstock.com

The main thing that sets Italian sausage apart from regular sausage is the flavor. Italian sausage is usually seasoned with fennel, garlic and black pepper, giving it a more savory, slightly herbaceous taste than something like breakfast sausage.

Breakfast sausage is often seasoned with sage and sweeter spices, while bratwurst tends to be milder and more peppery. Italian sausage generally has a stronger flavor, which is why it works so well in dishes like pasta, pizza, soups and sausage-and-pepper sandwiches.

Even a small amount can add a lot of flavor to a dish, especially compared to plainer sausage varieties.

Related: The Genius Way to Make Guacamole 10x Better, According to an Award-Winning Chef

Courtesy Fra' Mani

Is It Better To Cook Italian Sausage in the Oven or on the Stove?

According to Bertolli, both methods work well, but they produce slightly different results.

“For fresh Italian sausage, both the oven and stove work well,” Bertolli tells Parade. “The oven is more hands-off and gives you even cooking, especially for a larger batch. The stove gives you more control and better browning, especially if you’re using a cast iron pan.”

In other words, the oven is great when you just want to get dinner going without standing over the stove the entire time. On the other hand, though the stovetop takes a little more attention, it’s usually the better option if you want darker browning and more crust on the outside of the sausage.

Bertolli says fully cooked sausage is a little different because the focus is more on reheating and browning than cooking the sausage through from raw. “If the sausage is the centerpiece, like on a bun with sautéed peppers and onions, I like the grill or a cast-iron pan,” he explains.

Related: Have Your Beer and Eat It Too With This Easy Slow Cooker Beer-Braised Smoked Sausage

What Is the Best Method of Cooking Italian Sausage?

Courtesy Fra' Mani

According to Bertolli, the best method depends partly on whether you’re cooking fresh or fully cooked Italian sausage.

“For fresh sausage, I like to start gently and finish with color,” Bertolli says. “You can poach or steam it first to cook it through, then brown it on the grill or in a pan.”

Starting the sausage more gently helps keep it juicy while still giving the outside time to brown properly at the end.

For fully cooked sausage, Bertolli approaches things a little differently. “They don’t need to be cooked through from raw, so I focus on browning and warming,” he explains. “On the grill, I’d use high direct heat for a minute or two on each side for color, then move them to indirect heat for a few minutes to warm through.”

Related: I Asked 3 Chefs the Secret Ingredient to the Best-Ever Lemonade, and They All Said the Same Thing

SimpleImages / Getty Images

Should I Poke Holes in Italian Sausage Before Cooking?

A lot of people poke holes in Italian sausage before cooking because they’re worried the casing will burst in the pan, but Bertolli says that usually does more harm than good.

“I generally wouldn’t,” Bertolli says. “Whether it’s fresh or fully cooked, poking holes lets the juices and fat escape. That’s where a lot of the flavor and texture are.”

With fresh sausage, Bertolli says it’s better to control the heat rather than puncture the casing, explaining, “Cook it more gently and let the casing do its job."

He adds that there’s even less reason to poke holes in fully cooked sausage because it’s really just being reheated.

Related: This Crock Pot Italian Sausage and Peppers Recipe Basically Cooks Itself

Courtesy Fra' Mani

How To Cook Italian Sausage in the Oven

Cooking Italian sausage in the oven is one of the easier methods because you can mostly leave it alone while it cooks.

For fresh sausage, Bertolli says it’s better to start at a moderate temperature so that the inside cooks through before the casing gets too dark.

“You want the inside done without drying out the casing or the meat,” Bertolli explains.

If you want more browning, Bertolli recommends finishing the sausage with higher heat or under the broiler for the last few minutes.

Fully cooked sausage doesn’t need as much time in the oven. “Since they’re already fully cooked, they can go in whole or sliced, and a few minutes in a 400-degree oven is usually enough to warm them through,” Bertolli tells Parade.

He says he especially likes using oven-cooked sausage in dishes like polenta, beans, braised vegetables and shakshuka.

Related: My Husband Cracked the Code to the Best-Ever Kielbasa

Nico De Pasquale Photography/Getty Images

How To Cook Italian Sausage in the Air Fryer

The air fryer is one of the quickest ways to cook Italian sausage, especially on busy nights when you don’t want to turn on the oven or deal with a bunch of dishes afterward.

For fresh Italian sausage, cook the links at 375°F, flipping halfway through so both sides brown evenly. Exact cooking times may vary depending on the size of the sausage, but most links take about 10 to 15 minutes to fully cook through.

Fully cooked sausage usually takes less time because it mainly just needs to be reheated and browned. A few minutes in the air fryer is often enough to warm it through and slightly crisp the outside.

Related: The Italian Way To Make Chicken Thighs 10x Better

Courtesy Fra' Mani

How To Cook Italian Sausage on the Stove

Cooking Italian sausage on the stove takes a little more attention than the oven, but it’s also one of the best ways to get deeper browning on the outside of the sausage.

For fresh sausage, Bertolli likes using a covered pan method.

“Add the sausages to a skillet with a small amount of water, cover and let them gently cook through,” he says. “Once the water evaporates, uncover the pan and let the sausages brown in their own fat.”

For fully cooked sausage, Bertolli prefers cast iron. “Sear them first for color, then add just enough water to coat the bottom of the pan,” he explains. “Cover the pan and let them gently come up to temperature.”

No matter which method you use, good Italian sausage usually comes down to the same thing: cooking it gently enough to stay juicy while still getting good browning on the outside. And once you taste the difference, it’s hard to go back.

With these tips from Bertolli, your next Italian sausage meal is sure to become a standout.

Up Next:

Related: The Italian Way To Make Pasta Salad 10x Better

Source:

• Paul Bertolli, a James Beard Award-winning chef and master salumiere

Classic rock is known for having subversive songs, dealing with taboo topics. So, it's not all that surprising to learn that quite a few tunes from the genre were not allowed on radio stations at one time or another.

In October 2025, the publication Far Out released a list of the top "10 classic rock songs that were banned from the radio." The list spotlighted classic and apparently controversial hits like Nine Inch Nails' "The Hand That Feeds" from 2005, Lola by The Kinks (1970), The Beach Boys' "God Only Knows" from 1966, Van Halen's "Jump," released in 1984, and 1977's "God Save the Queen" by The Sex Pistols.

Far Out ranked The Beatles' 1967 song, "Lucy in the Sky With Diamonds," as the best classic rock song "banned from radio." According to the publication, the John Lennon-penned hit, off the acclaimed record, Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band was deemed not radio-friendly because of its initials.

Both John Lennon and Paul McCartney Addressed Rumors Regarding 'Lucy in the Sky With Diamonds'

The official Beatles website reported that "Lucy in the Sky With Diamonds" was prohibited by the BBC due to theories that it was inspired by LSD. Far Out reported that Lennon stated the rumors were untrue.

In an interview with Dick Cavett, Lennon, who died in 1980 at the age of 40, said that the song wasn't "a code for anything."

"It never was. And nobody believes me," said Lennon, while sitting next to his second wife, Yoko Ono.

During the interview, Lennon said his eldest son, Julian, "came home with a drawing" from school of "a strange looking woman flying around."

"I said, 'What is it?' And he said, 'It's Lucy in the sky with diamonds.' And I thought, 'That's beautiful.' And I immedially wrote a song about it," said the late musician.

However, according to the official Beatles website, Lennon's bandmate, Paul McCartney, seemed to confirm the "Lucy in the Sky With Diamonds" rumors.

"A song like 'Got to Get You Into My Life,' that's directly about pot, although everyone missed it at the time. 'Day Tripper.' That's one about acid. 'Lucy in the Sky,' that's pretty obvious. There's others that make subtle hints about drugs, but, you know, it's easy to overestimate the influence of drugs on the Beatles' music," said McCartney while speaking about the band's tracks during a 2004 interview, as reported by the Beatles website.

Christina Aguilera almost didn't get to sing one of her biggest hits, and the reason is as flattering as it is a lesson that everyone is going through something.

While appearing on TheZach Sang Show, Linda Perryopened up about writing one of Aguilera's biggest hits and weighed in on her thought process regarding who gets what.

The topic came up when Perry was talking about how she wrote the song "Beautiful" with herself in mind, writing about how she felt and just letting the words flow. But when Aguilera came to collaborate with her and asked Perry to sing for her to help break the ice and relax her nerves, the song took on a whole new life.

"That was the song that was the most fresh, and I played it to her, and she was like 'Okay I want that' and I'm thinking, in my mind I'm like 'No you're like a hot chick, I'm not giving you this song. No way, are you kidding me?'"

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She continued, "And then my manager at the time said, 'Why don't you just let her sing it and see what it sounds like?'"

It turns out that's the best thing the 4 Non Blondes singer could have done. "I let her sing it, and it just took on a whole new... it made sense. Cuz then I was like.. that's when I discovered, I know, so late in the game, 'Oh, beautiful people are just as damaged as I am. Like, she's just as f----d up as I am. Then it broke the ice between the both of us when I saw that."

In the same interview, Perry explained how she doesn't edit when she writes because she doesn't think of herself as a songwriter but as a vessel and songs "just show up." Which is how "Beautiful" came to be and why she didn't edit it as the words and melody came to her.

Likewise, it's worth noting that Aguilera's recording of the song is her first run-through, which Perry said was exactly what she wanted: raw and emotional rather than polished and perfected.

Aguilera won the Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance for "Beautiful" at the 46th Annual Grammy Awards in 2004. It also won her a GLAAD Media Award.

It's no secret that Perry is one of the most successful modern songwriters and, in addition to the "Beautiful" singer, she has also written songs for Pink, Gwen Stefani, andBritney Spears.

For many people, breakfast just doesn’t get the same level of attention as lunch and dinner. It’s the meal that’s most often skipped, and it’s certainly not given the same amount of planning and preparation as dinner. (The exception being weekend brunch, of course).

While lunch and dinner are heartier and more balanced, many go-to breakfasts are pretty nutrient-void, such as sugary cereals, pastries and protein bars. (Registered dietitians say they aren’t a balanced breakfast on their own.)

Related: Neurologists Say This Nutrient Is Crucial for Brain Aging—But Most Adults Don't Get Enough

It’s time to rethink breakfast. Instead of a throwaway meal, it’s an opportunity to provide the brain and body with the energy needed to power through until lunch. It’s also the first opportunity of the day to support your brain health through what you eat and drink. 

According to a 2024 scientific review in Advances in Nutrition, diet significantly impacts memory and cognition in healthy older adults. That means every meal is an opportunity to support your memory. With this in mind, Parade asked three neurologists what the absolute best breakfast for memory is. They all had the same answer.

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The Must-Have Nutrients for a Brain-Healthy Breakfast

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When it comes to which nutrients should be included in a memory-supporting breakfast, all three neurologists we talked to highlighted the same ones: omega-3 fatty acids, protein and fiber from complex carbohydrates.

“Together, these nutrients help maintain steady glucose delivery to the brain, avoid rapid spikes and crashes and support the gut microbiome, which plays an increasingly recognized role in cognition and inflammation,” says Dr. Suraj Muley, MD, a neurologist at the HonorHealth Bob Bové Neuroscience Institute in Scottsdale, Arizona. 

“DHA, or omega-3 fatty acids, is a key structural component of neuronal membranes and supports synaptic function, all of which is essential for memory formation,” says neurologist Dr. John Stewart Hao Dy, MD, FPNA. In fact, he says that omega-3 fatty acids are so crucial for brain health that if he was pressed to pick one most important nutrient to have at breakfast, this would be it.

Related: The Popular Lunchtime Habit Brain Health Experts Are Begging You To Stop

Dr. Frederick Schmitt, PhD, a neurology professor at the University of Kentucky and a member of Alzheimer’s Foundation of America’s medical, scientific and memory screening advisory board, also emphasizes the importance of omega-3 fatty acids. He explains that omega-3 fatty acids support brain activity by strengthening brain cells, protecting cells against oxidative stress and lowering neurotoxicity. 

As for protein, Dr. Muley explains that this nutrient supports memory by keeping blood sugar levels stable and supporting neurotransmitter production—especially two neurotransmitters in particular, acetylcholine and dopamine. “This prevents the rapid spikes and crashes that impair attention and memory,” he says.

Dr. Muley points out that protein provides the body and brain with energy, and if you can’t focus on what you’re doing, you’re going to have trouble remembering it later. “From a neurological perspective, memory starts with attention, and protein is one of the most effective ways to sustain that through the morning,” he says.

The last major nutrient the neurologists say it’s important to get at breakfast if you want to support your memory is fiber. Think fiber is more of a gut health-supporting nutrient? That’s the whole point. Dr. Muley says that supporting the gut is crucial for supporting the brain because of the gut-brain axis, which is a bidirectional communication system between the brain and the gut. 

All three neurologists tell Parade that consuming fiber from complex carbohydrates helps keep blood sugar levels steady and helps provide sustained energy, which in turn supports cognition and memory. 

Related: Want To Improve Your Brain Health? Experts Agree This Is the Most Important Supplement to Take

What a Memory-Supporting Breakfast Actually Looks Like

It’s one thing to know what nutrients support memory, but knowing how that translates into an actual breakfast is something else entirely. When it comes to the best memory-supporting breakfast, all three neurologists put eggs at the top of the list. Besides being omega-3 fatty acids, the neurologists point out that eggs also have protein and choline, a nutrient that has a protective effect on memory.

If you have any leftover fish from dinner the night before, all three neurologists say this makes a great addition to an eggy breakfast because seafood is also a good source of protein and omega-3s.

Not into eggs? All three neurologists recommend Greek yogurt as another memory-supporting breakfast food due to its protein and gut-supporting probiotics. To round out the meal, they recommend adding some nuts or seeds on top (for the omega-3s, protein and fiber trifecta) and berries (a good source of fiber and brain-protecting antioxidants).

Remember the fiber from complex carbohydrates that the neurologists say is so important? All three say that oats are a prime example of this. As with Greek yogurt, they recommend adding nuts or seeds and fruit to your oatmeal to boost the nutrient content even more. 

Whole-grain avocado toast is another example of a complex carb with fiber (from the whole-grain bread) paired with a good source of omega-3 fatty acids (the avocado, which also has fiber), making it a great pairing for Greek yogurt.

What To Drink at Breakfast for Brain Health

Now that you have some ideas for what to eat, let’s talk about what to drink. Many people love to pair their breakfast with coffee, tea or juice. Which of these morning drinks is best for brain health?

While it may sound healthy, Dr. Muley and Dr. Dy say that juice doesn’t support brain health as much as many people assume. “While it may contain vitamins, it is typically high in rapidly absorbed sugars and lacks the fiber found in whole fruit,” Dr. Muley says, adding that the best way to get the benefits from fruit is to eat the fruit itself.

As for coffee and tea, all three neurologists say that both beverages support brain health—as long as it doesn’t disrupt your sleep later. Both coffee and tea have been linked to a lower rate of dementia when consumed regularly and in moderation. 

As you can see, there isn’t one perfect breakfast for brain health and switching up your morning meal will provide your body with a wider range of nutrients. The key is to have your nutrient bases covered. As long as you do that, you’ll be supporting your memory both now and in the future.

Up Next:

Related: Dietitians Are Divided on Whether Dinner Timing Impacts Brain Health—but They Do Agree on This for People Over 50

Sources:

• Tingӧ, L., Bergh, C., Rode, J., et al. (2024). The Effect of Whole-Diet Interventions on Memory and Cognitive Function in Older Adults — A Systematic Review. Advances in Nutrition. 15(9):100291.
• Dr. Suraj Muley, MD, neurologist at the HonorHealth Bob Bové Neuroscience Institute in Scottsdale, Arizona
• Dr. John Stewart Hao Dy, MD, FPNA, neurologist specializing in neuroimmunology, neuromuscular diseases and neuroarts. 
• Dr. Frederick Schmitt, PhD, neurology professor at the University of Kentucky and a member of Alzheimer’s Foundation of America’s medical, scientific and memory screening advisory board.
• Carabotti, M., Scirocco, A., Antonietta Maselli, M., et al. (2015). The gut-brain axis: interactions between enteric microbiota, central and enteric nervous systems.Annals of Gastroenterology. 28(2):203-209.
• Liu, D., Niu, Y., Yan, H., et al. (2025). The association of dietary choline intakes with cognitive function among the older people in underdeveloped regions: findings from the NCDFaC study.Nutrition Journal. doi: 10.1186/s12937-025-01120-w
• Zhang, Y., Liu, Y., Li, Y., et al. (2026). Coffee and Tea Intake, Dementia Risk, and Cognitive Function. JAMA. 335(11):961-974.

For eleven years, Tom Hanks has walked into the Ed Sullivan Theater to sit across from Stephen Colbert. Those conversations have covered movies, fatherhood, typewriters, and the particular experience of being one of the most recognized human beings on the planet. On Wednesday, May 13, Hanks will do it for the 18th and final time, as The Late Show with Stephen Colbertenters its last full week of production before the May 21 series finale ends the franchise's 33-year run on CBS.

Hanks is one of several guests announced for what Colbert's team has framed as a deliberate farewell rather than a countdown. Julia Louis-Dreyfus, who has appeared on the show seven times and whom Colbert considers among his closest connections in entertainment, will stop by Tuesday, May 12. Pedro Pascal, weeks away from the May 22 theatrical premiere of Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu, will also appear that night. Billy Crystal, Ina Garten, and John Krasinski round out the penultimate week's confirmed lineup.

Related: Brendan Fraser Has a Roller Coaster Confession About 'Mummy 4' Prep

The Monday, May 11 episode brings a reunion of the Strike Force Five (Jimmy Fallon, Jimmy Kimmel, Seth Meyers, and John Oliver appearing together on television for the first time), three years after their 2023 podcast run that supported striking writers and crew. On Thursday, May 14, David Lettermanreturns for only his second appearance since handing the franchise to Colbert in 2015, and his first since 2023. Letterman, now 79, has not been quiet about his opinion of the cancellation, calling CBS leadership 'lying weasels' in a recent New York Times interview and asserting that Colbert was pushed out during Paramount's Skydance merger negotiations, not for financial reasons.

The finale episode itself, May 21, has not had its full guest list confirmed. Billie Eilish has reportedly taped an appearance for the finale, per published reports. Barack Obama, who sat for a 'Colbert Questionert' segment during the penultimate week, represents one of the recurring formats the show used to reveal something unguarded in famous people, a segment that became a viewer favorite across dozens of installments.

The Late Show launched on CBS in August 1993 with Letterman as host, after he moved from NBC's Late Night where he had spent eleven years. Colbert took over in September 2015 after Letterman's retirement. Under Colbert, the show reached its first-ever number-one position in the late-night ratings and won its first Emmy for Outstanding Variety Talk Series in 2025, the same year the cancellation was announced.

Colbert has said publicly that he was offered a contract extension fewer than two years before CBS ended the show, a timeline he has noted without bitterness, though with evident curiosity about what changed. His stated intention for the remaining episodes has been to focus on the work: the guests, the segments, the writers and crew who have been with him since 2015, and the audience he has sat with every weeknight for a decade.

The guest list for this final week, read together, functions as a profile of that decade. The actors and friends who kept showing up, and continued showing up right until the end.

The Late Show with Stephen Colbert airs weeknights at 11:35 p.m. ET on CBS. The final episode airs May 21, 2026.

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As camping season approaches (or depending on where you live, maybe it's in full swing) I start to think a lot about all of the gear I have in my garage. My family doesn't camp a lot, but somehow managed to acquire a lot of the camping gear needed as if we're out there roughing it five times a year. And every time I take a peek in those bins or that section of the garage, it reminds me that my family could use some of that stuff even when we aren't camping.

Foldable camp chairs, for example. Those I drag out for all youth sports activities and even sometimes if we need a little extra seating for a backyard party. Lanterns? Perfect in the event of an unwanted power outage. And then there are the nice-to-haves that should actually stay in our patio all spring and summer long—like Aldi's portable hammocks.

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Adventuridge Portable Hammock with Stand, $69.99 at Aldi Aldi's Adventuridge Portable Hammock with Stand

Aldi

Now I get it, right now you're probably like, "Hey, lady, any hammock is technically portable." Well, smarty pants, this one comes equipped with its own sturdy stand, because not every area you want to lounge has trees spaced just enough apart to tie a hammock, particularly if you want to use it in your backyard. Aldi's Adventuridge Portable Hammock with Stand is $69.99, which sounds pricy but many cost upwards of $100, and is available in either the gray shown above or green.

Related: Dollar General's $8 Embossed Glass Pitcher Looks Like It Was Passed Down From Grandma

The hammock stand itself has a sort of accordion-style mechanism making it easy to both collapse compactly for easy storage but also extend simply when you want to use it. There's a small attached pillow for added comfort and even a drink holder that's perfect for a water bottle.

If you've been paying attention to the Aldi Finds aisle lately you've probably noticed that it has been moving pretty rapidly from those cozy end of winter items to everything you need for your yard. Recently the chain dropped a sweet foldable outdoor recliner as well as washable patio rugs. There's also a 12-piece meal prep set that's perfect for transporting everything you need for a day of grilling outside, and the loveliest bird feeder, so you can make sure your feathered friends get what they need, too.

Related: Sam’s Club’s Colorful New Sweet and Salty Snack Mix Is Packed With Childhood Nostalgia

Keanu Reeves, 61, has spent the past four decades in Hollywood, starring in popular films like Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure, The Matrix, and John Wick. Yet, the Canadian actor has an unshakeable reputation as a down-to-earth, regular guy. Still, seeing him as a youth correspondent for the Canadian Broadcasting Company (CBC) before becoming an A-list actor is still a bit of a surprise.

Reeves was one of the youth reporters for the CBC show Going Great. He interviewed kids and teenagers who were doing remarkable things. In one YouTube video, he attempts to juggle after chatting with teen juggler Claude Beaudoin. "How hard can it be?" He questions before showing that it's actually not as easy as it looks.

In another video, he visits Susan Keers, a 16-year-old equestrian who started her own riding school in Woodstock, Ontario. At one point, he declares that he'd "rather be with hot, sweaty, big horses than Jacqueline Bisset or Elizabeth Taylor any day." Fortunately, that statement didn't come back to haunt him. Even so, he's starred opposite many gorgeous actresses during his career, including Charlize Theron and Sandra Bullock.

While it's entertaining watching the Outcome star jump onto a horse and attempt to juggle, watching him attend Canada's first International Teddy Bear Convention is when he truly shines. After interviewing 13-year-old Graham Abbey, who owns 53 teddy bears, he decides to find a bear of his own to hang out with, which brings out his silliness.

After Abbey brings him a giant, fluffy, white teddy bear, Reeves says, "Aww, she's so cute, look at that!" Before pretending to be violently attacked by the bear. "You're not a bear!" he exclaims, before falling to the ground with the bear "biting" his neck.

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During an appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, he discussed his stint on Going Great.

"That was one of my first gigs," he revealed. He seemed reluctant to talk about it, but admitted that "it was really fun, actually. Go on the road, meet people."

"They fired me after the first year," he laughed. "I got one year of Going Great, and then it was just not going at all."

Billy Joel knows how to stick it to the scalpers and give some of his biggest fans a treat, all at the same time.

It's no secret that The Piano Man doesn't sell tickets to the front row seats for his shows. It's been his policy for decades now. Fans will never be able to log in to ticket sale sites and purchase those coveted close-up seats, even if they're willing to shell out major moolah to a reseller — and that's actually the point.

On Saturday, May 9, The Late Showshared a clip on TikTok where Stephen Colbert asked Joel, "Is it true you no longer sell the tickets to the front row of your shows?"

"I stopped doing that 20 years ago," Joel responded. "I would look down from the stage and... the scalpers sell the tickets for the front row so people pay way too much money for the tickets. We're not worth like $50,000 for tickets in the front and they're sitting there like this 'Okay entertain me Piano Man.'"

@colbertlateshow

@billyjoel takes a win-win approach to his shows' front-row seats! #Colbert #BillyJoel #HBD

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"And we're like 'Come on, where are the fans?' And you can hear the fans in the back. So I decided, you know what, I'm not going to sell the front rows. I'm going to send my road crew with fist fulls of tickets to the back of the room and bring my real fans up to the front."

But it doesn't mean there are never issues. "Then, the front row is... they're all enthusiastic to be there. But here's the codicil. The guys in my road crew... are guys. So they're gonna go back to the back of the room and who do you think they're going to bring to the front? Cute girls. So we look down and we go 'My this is a good looking audience.'"

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That's one way to make sure those sitting closest are excited to be there. Not only did they not have to pay thos front row prices, they were hand picked to move up front, a huge win for a super fan.

Most people know Ringo Starr as the iconic drummer from the globally renowned rock and roll band, The Beatles. What many people might not know is that Starr actually had an acting career that is commonly forgotten by the media.

Despite being a musician first, Starr began dabbling in the film industry during his time with the Beatles. In the '60s and early '70s, he appeared in four films with the band, portraying fictional versions of himself in A Hard Day's Night (1964), Help! (1965), Magical Mystery Tour (1967), and Let It Be (1970).

Among all the members' performances, Starr was often cited as the best actor in the group, notably being referred to as a "natural" by professionals in the film industry. Director Richard Lester even called him a "superb actor" after A Hard Day's Night premiered. Following the Beatles' split in the early '70s, Starr began exploring his acting prowess more, appearing in films unrelated to his involvement with the band.

Ringo Starr kidnaps Agneta Eckemyr against her will in a scene from the film 'Blindman', 1972.

Century-Fox/Getty Images

Some of his most defining roles include, the protagonist in the Spaghetti Western Blindman (1971), a teddy boy in That'll Be the Day (1973), the pope in Lisztomania (1975) and a caveman in Caveman (1981). These roles helped to establish him as a diverse entertainer and an actor capable of engaging audiences with both comedic and dramatic roles.

Throughout his nearly 20-year acting career, Starr has portrayed over 12 distinct roles. Of his various roles, three were voice-acted. From 1984 to 1986, he voiced the narrator for the children's television series Thomas & Friends, and starred as Mr. Conductor on Shining Time Station in 1989, a series associated with the Thomas & Friends franchise.

His most recent film endeavor was in 2014, when he was featured in the special of the animated series, ThePowerpuff Girls as Fibonacci Sequins. Despite pop culture's lack of acknowledgement for Starr's acting projects, he persevered as an actively diverse entertainer.

To this day, Starr continues to pursue a solo music career. Throughout his life, he has achieved two No. 1 hits on the Billboard Hot 100, topping the chart in 1973 with his song "Photograph" and in 1974 with his cover of Johnny Burnette's song "You're Sixteen."

Starr's continuous passion and exploration for all kinds of entertainment mediums has solidified his legacy as one of the industry's most iconic figures.

Related: 1975 Hit Musical Film, Starring ‘70s Rocker, Became the Longest-Running Theatrical Release in Movie History

I've spent the last few weeks floating on air. See, I've been a die-hard basketball fan since birth. During elementary school, I was the only girl on the boys basketball team and when I was 12, I wrote a letter about the 1996 Team USA women's team that got published in The New York Times Magazine. In 2010, I even acted alongside Sam Rockwell and Emma Roberts in The Winning Season—a movie about a high school girls' basketball team.

So when I got an email inviting me to the 2026 Final Four on behalf of Samsung, I was floating on air—and the family group chat was on fire. Two flights and two Ubers later, I found myself in downtown Indianapolis with tickets for every game, a brand new smartphone and an exciting itinerary. From celebrity sightings and concerts to courtside moments and meals, here are my top highlights and biggest takeaways.

1. You Don't Need Tickets To the Game

One of my biggest—and most immediate—realizations was that you don't need to purchase actual tickets to the games to have an incredible Final Four weekend. That's because it's absolutely packed with free concerts and activations. Between Friday and Sunday, I got to see Post Malone, Megan Moroney and Dan + Shay concerts for FREE.

On Friday night, we attended Capital One's Madness After Dark event. As soon as I walked in, I saw Charles Barkley just hanging out and taking pictures with fans. We arrived at the ballroom just in time for Dan + Shay's performance and since my cousins are huge fans of the duo, I used the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra to record this clip of their hit, "How Not To."

Besides the free concerts, there were also tons of free events and activations—including ferris wheels, light shows and photo ops. The Final Four Fan Fest was definitely a highlight—I felt like I was walking into a theme park! There was an entire basketball court to shoot around on, a home run derby game, football competition—even a salon pop-up doing free haircuts! Plus, there were celebrity appearances, tons of merch and a cornucopia of free samples that would make any Costco aficionado shed a tear. I could have spent an entire day there, but we had a game to get to!

2. Playing on the Final Four Court Was a Dream

When the Samsung team told us we'd be going on a tour of Lucas Oil Stadium, I thought it sounded cool, but had absolutely zero idea that it would include walking onto the court and shooting hoops! My inner child—and let's face it current adult—was so geeked out I threw my bag to the side without taking any photos or videos. Thankfully, someone got this pic at the very end and the S26 Ultra's wide-angle lens did not disappoint.

I'm on the bottom right with my new Final Four friends!

And even better? Someone happened to catch my finger roll on camera! I immediately sent it to at least a dozen contacts:

Related: NBA Announcer’s Final Broadcast on ESPN After 36 Years Revealed

3. Celebrity Sightings at the Semifinals

During the first game—UConn vs. Illinois, I caught Bill Murray cheering on the jumbotron (his son, Luke Murray, was a longtime assistant coach at UConn, but next season, he'll be head coach at Boston College.)

We were in the Samsung suite, which made me feel fancy, but the suites were located higher up in the venue. What's wild is that my footage makes it look like I had floor seats!

I also spotted Simone Biles and her husband Jonathan Owens—sans security—heading into the bowl before the second game tipped off. Not a big surprise considering the NFL star just signed a one-year contract with the Indianapolis Colts.

We also got a performance from The Chainsmokers in between games. And in the suite next to ours? Dave Portnoy and the Barstool Sports team having just as much fun as you'd expect. (During the second game, my sister texted me and said I was in the background of Portnoy's Instagram stories!)

Related: Simone Biles Is Celebrating 29 in the Best Way—and Her Bikini Photos Prove It

4. The Indianapolis Food Scene Surprised Me

Okay, so I have to apologize to any Indiana resident who's reading this. Perhaps because my mind was fully on basketball, I wasn't even thinking about the local food scene. That all ended on Saturday, when we skipped the outdoor activations due to the wind and rain. Instead, we had brunch at The Fountain Room, where I devoured the best biscuits and gravy I've ever had. They were so mesmerizing, I dug right in without taking an obligatory food pic—and only had the aftermath to show for it:

But then someone mentioned that the Galaxy S26 Ultra has an AI-powered feature called Photo Assist, which lets you adjust the image without leaving the photo app. I asked it to show what my plate looked like before I took my first bite and here's what it served up:

What the heck! Another cool feature on this smartphone is its built-in Privacy Display. When you turn it on, anyone looking at your phone sees nothing—just a dark, unreadable screen. But for you, looking straight on, everything looks completely normal. You can even set it to automatically activate when you open specific apps, like banking or messaging.

Back to the food: I also ate at St. Elmo Steakhouse—the legendary James Beard Award-winning institution that's been visited by multiple American Presidents—including George W. Bush, Ronald Reagan and Jimmy Carter. Celebrities like Michael Douglas,John Travolta, Jon Hamm and Rob Lowe have all dined here, too, and I can see why. The restaurant has been around since 1902 and their horseradish-packed cocktail sauce is just as iconic as the legends who've dined there. I definitely gagged a little—but the shrimps were as big as my hand and the ribeye was elite. I wish I had video of me tasting it, but it looked just like this!

View this post on Instagram 5. The Grand Finale: Sharing French Fries With Bill Murray

After such an incredible weekend, I was absolutely exhausted when I arrived at the airport for my flight home. I had about 20 minutes to grab a quick bite and sat down at a restaurant close to my gate. The girls next to me said the fries were delicious and came with multiple sauces, so as a dip connoisseur, I was all in.

A few minutes after placing my otder, the waiter brought out my fresh hot fries—paired with four different dips—and I heard a group of people nearby comment on how good they looked. "She'll never know," a familiar voice whispered—loud enough for me to hear, of course. I moved my plate towards them and said, "Help yourselves—seriously! My flight's boarding soon and there's no way I can eat all of these."

Suddenly, I was face-to-face with Bill Murray, who thanked me, grabbed a fry and asked about each sauce. He complimented my bags of souvenirs—including the giant Samsung Final Four pillow—which I told him were for my niece and nephew. And then he told me I was a great American.

After an enjoyable chit chat that included takes on the difference between beercheese and nacho cheese, and how Indiana makes some of the best popcorn, it was time for me to board my flight and we said our goodbyes. (I realized the others in the group—the ones I'd interacted with first—were his adult children.) I'm a massive Bill Murray fan, so it was the perfect ending to the perfect weekend that I didn't want to ruin by asking for a photo. But if you ever find yourself in Concourse B at the Indianapolis Airport, know that the fries at Sun King Brewery are Bill Murray-approved—and that the legend himself flies Southwest Airlines.

Related: Up Next:

Taylor Swift andTravis Kelce haven't revealed their wedding date or venue yet, but minutes before they're introduced as husband and wife and dance into their wedding reception, guests will most definitely notice the table decor.

And for a wedding of this scale, that first impression won't be an afterthought. It'll be part of their beautiful love story—woven together with florals, textures and perfect touches that invite guests to sit down and feel right at home.

If their engagement photos are any indication, that tone may lean soft and cinematic. A custom garden setting—filled with natural texture and warm light—offered a sneak peek of an aesthetic that feels intimate, slightly whimsical and unmistakably hers.

“When I think of Taylor, I think elegant and vibrant,” says Dani Chistakos, founder and creative director of The Flower Garage. “But then you see her on the sidelines and there’s this completely different side of her.”

Parade spoke with seven of the industry's top wedding designers, planners and floral creative directors to find out exactly what they're predicting for Taylor and Travis's big day. Read on to discover their expert insights.

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What Will Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's Wedding Reception Look Like?

It’s easy to picture Taylor Swift's wedding reception as a garden-inspired setting layered with florals and soft color, the kind of space that feels almost transportive without trying too hard.

“I imagine guests feeling like they’re walking through a garden, completely immersed,” Chistakos says, describing a ceremony and reception where florals extend well beyond the table.

Think long tables surrounded by blooms, candlelight reflecting off glassware and arrangements that feel organic rather than overly structured.

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But just as quickly, that vision could pivot. “It could go either way,” she adds. “Romantic and colorful, or something really modern and monochromatic.” Whichever direction Taylor and Travis choose, expect a setting that reflects both her signature softness and his easygoing charm.

What Will Taylor Swift's Wedding Tablescape Look Like?

No matter which direction Taylor and Travis choose, experts predict that the tables themselves will feel thoughtfully pulled together.

“Her tablescape will be story-driven, but with a sense of refined restraint,” says luxury planner Preena Patel, pointing to a style that balances detail without feeling overdone.

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That could show up in subtle color variation, mixed materials or pieces that feel personal without being overly literal.

Related: Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s Upcoming Wedding Plans: What We Know So Far

Jennifer Zabinski, founder of JZ Events, expects something with a bit more emotion behind it. “I think it will feel deeply romantic, layered and incredibly intentional,” she says, describing a setting where the details come together in a way that feels both poetic and personal.

View this post on Instagram What Flowers Will Be at Travis and Taylor's Wedding?

Florals will naturally play a leading role—and not just as centerpieces.

“The first visual I imagine is an opulent, romantic table that's Marie Antoinette–inspired grandeur, cascading blush and cream florals, delicate lace accents, gilded touches and lush, overflowing arrangements that feel effortlessly dreamy,” says Tas Mariam, founder and creative director at Tas Events & Design.

Experts point to lush blooms like peonies, garden roses and ranunculus, arranged in a way that feels abundant without tipping into excess.

“Think soft color, movement and pieces that draw you in,” says Rebecca Glayzer, creative director at Poppy Flowers. Instead of one focal arrangement, tables may feature a mix of heights and styles, creating depth and variation across the space.

That same approach could carry throughout the room. Chistakos notes that large-scale floral moments—from aisle installations to overhead arrangements—have become increasingly popular, helping tie the ceremony and reception together visually. “You want a moment that shows up in every photo,” she says.

View this post on Instagram How Texture Will Shape Travis and Taylor's Wedding Tables

Beyond florals, texture is what gives a table its depth. Layered linens, vintage-inspired glassware and subtle variations in place settings can keep everything from feeling too uniform.

Event designer Larry Walshe, founder of London-based Larry Walshe Studios, points to the importance of mixing materials in a way that feels collected rather than overly coordinated—where no single element feels too matched or too perfect. It’s a balance that allows each detail—from cutlery to candleholders—to stand on its own while still contributing to the overall look. That could mean raw silk table runners paired with hammered brass candleholders, hand-blown glassware alongside antique crystal or velvet napkins layered over delicate lace. The contrast is what makes a table feel collected over time rather than purchased all at once.

Even a more minimal palette would rely on those choices. A monochromatic scheme doesn’t fall flat when the focus shifts to shape, scale and finish.

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Related: ESPN Drops Big Hint About Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s Wedding Date

Will Taylor Swift's Wedding Stationery Match Her 'Life of a Showgirl' Era?

Beyond florals and tabletop styling, stationery is expected to play a key role in pulling everything together. Menu cards, place cards and other printed elements aren’t just functional anymore. They’re part of the overall look, adding another layer of texture and personality to the table.

“For Taylor and Travis, we’d love to see a wedding suite inspired by the Life of a Showgirl era—leaning into bold, expressive color with a striking teal and sunset-hued palette,” says Anna Wibbelman, general manager of Minted Weddings.

If the rumored New York City setting holds, Wibbelman notes that it opens the door for something more high-energy and visually striking that's balanced with classic details like script typography or vintage-inspired touches. That could show up in something as simple as a menu card, whether it’s printed on textured paper, finished with an embossed monogram or designed with subtle references woven throughout.

“We’re also seeing a major trend toward couples infusing their stationery with personal, story-driven details,” Wibbelman adds, pointing to custom illustrations and layered elements that reward a closer look. In a setting like this, those pieces don’t just sit on the table. They become part of the overall design—adding personality without competing for attention.

View this post on Instagram Expect a Few Surprises at Taylor and Travis's Wedding

If there's one consistent theme, it's that nothing about Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's wedding will feel too predictable.

“I don’t think she’ll do what everyone expects,” Chistakos says. “I think she’ll create something that surprises people.” That could show up in unexpected color pairings, subtle references or small details that reveal themselves over time rather than all at once. (Taylor loves a good Easter egg!)

Walshe notes that the most memorable tables often include unexpected contrasts, whether that’s pairing delicate florals with more structured elements or mixing traditional pieces with something slightly more modern.

Zabinski points to the idea of hidden elements—touches that reward a closer look rather than drawing immediate attention. It’s a quieter approach, but one that tends to leave a lasting impression.

View this post on Instagram A Legendary Wedding That's Designed to Be Remembered

At its core, the table isn’t just a design element. It’s where guests settle in, where conversations unfold and where the pace of the night naturally shifts. The glow of candlelight, the layering of florals and the way everything feels pulled together without being overly styled all contribute to that atmosphere.

Because at Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's wedding, the table isn’t just part of the backdrop. It’s part of what stays with people.

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Tom Hankshas spent more than two decades retelling the story of World War II onscreen—from Saving Private Ryan to Band of Brothers to The Pacific, Greyhound and Masters of the Air. Now, the 69-year-old Oscar winner is taking on his most expansive WWII project yet—and this one carries personal weight.

The Forrest Gump star narrates and executive-produces World War II with Tom Hanks, a 20-hour documentary series from the HISTORY Channel and the National WWII Museum in New Orleans. The series—premiering Memorial Day 2026—is being billed as the "definitive retelling" of the Second World War for a new generation. Hanks has said the war's marks on his own family history made it deeply personal.

"During my formative years, every single adult in my life would make references to two words: The War," he explained. "The lasting effects of WWII on the world and my own family was not lost on me. I am thrilled to partner with The HISTORY Channel to produce this all-encompassing series with a long form format that will give us the ability to tell this important piece of history in its entirety."

Before viewers "witness the war like never before," as the trailer promises, here is everything to know about World War II with Tom Hanks.

The Oscar-winning actor narrates WWII with Tom Hanks

©️2025, A&E Television Networks, LLC/Art Streiber

How to watch 'World War II with Tom Hanks'

The 20-episode docuseries airs Mondays at 8 p.m. ET on the HISTORY Channel, with new episodes also available to stream on the HISTORY Channel app and HISTORY.com the following day. The series is part of the HISTORY Honors 250 campaign—a year-long initiative commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States.

When does 'World War II with Tom Hanks' premiere?

The retelling of the Second World War premieres on Memorial Day—Monday, May 25, 2026—at 8 p.m. ET. The series launches with three back-to-back episodes. The remaining 17 episodes will air weekly on Mondays.

Tom Hanks grasps hands with World War II veteran Mickey Rooney as Tom Brokaw looks on during the National World War II Museum Dedication Ceremony on November 6, 2009.

Photo by Sean Gardner on Getty Images

Who narrates 'World War II with Tom Hanks'?

Hanks narrates the 20-hour docuseries and serves as an executive producer alongside his longtime collaborator Gary Goetzman—with whom he previously produced Band of Brothers, The Pacific and Masters of the Air. Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Jon Meacham also serves as an executive producer.

In a press release for the series, the HISTORY Channel noted that Hanks's "lifelong passion for history has informed some of the most profound screen portrayals of the era."

Related: Hollywood Legend, Ranked ‘Biggest Movie Star of the ’90s,’ Delivered Most Iconic Line in Cinema History

What is 'World War II with Tom Hanks' about?

Spanning 20 hours, World War II with Tom Hanks reexamines the Second World War "through the lens of a new century, offering a deeply human portrait of how the modern world was forged in the fires of global conflict," according to the HISTORY Channel.

The network reveals that the show "captures the full arc of the war—from the rise of fascism in Europe to the fall of Berlin, from Pearl Harbor to Hiroshima, and the uneasy peace that follows." And that every episode will explore "new dimensions of the conflict: the decisions that shaped the battlefield, the unseen networks that sustained the war effort, and the aftershocks that still shape our world today."

World War II with Tom Hanks culminates "in the dawn of the atomic age and the uneasy aftermath that transformed wartime allies into Cold War adversaries, offering a comprehensive and deeply human portrait of the conflict that reshaped the modern world."

Related: 10 of Tom Hanks' Best Roles

Is there a trailer for 'World War II with Tom Hanks'?

Yes! A trailer for the series dropped in early March. "For six dark years, the world was on fire," Hanks reflects in the trailer. "A conflict that toppled empires and reshaped the modern world. No part of the globe was untouched. No life unchanged. The Second World War is the largest event in human history."

He closes the trailer with a tribute to the generation that fought the war: "They saved that which is most valued by us all. Freedom. World War II changed everything for all of us."

What is HISTORY Honors 250?

The History Channel is commemorating the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States with HISTORY Honors 250, a campaign highlighting "breakthrough innovations, major achievements, and unsung heroes that have shaped the United States since the signing of the Declaration of Independence." World War II with Tom Hanks is part of the campaign.

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Before he was Deadpool, Ryan Reynolds almost fought supernatural creatures on Buffy the Vampire Slayer.

It was the mid-90s, and the Welcome to Wrexham star had just finished appearing in Canadian teen soap opera Hillside (or Fifteen as it was known to American audiences) when he auditioned and was offered a role alongside Sarah Michelle Gellar on the teen supernatural drama.

Ryan turned down the role rumoured to be of Xander Harris in the series, a part that would ultimately go to the late Nicholas Brendon, because he didn't want to relive his high school experiences. While it has never been confirmed that the role he was offered was Xander, the wisecracking yet lovable member of the Scoobies feels the perfect fit for the Canadian actor.

He spoke about turning down the role during a 2008 interview with the Toronto Star, admitting the choice was hard because he loved the show and its creator, Joss Whedon. "But my biggest concern was that I didn't want to play a guy in high school. I had just come out of high school, and it was f-----g awful."

The actor spoke about his high school years during a 2012 appearance on BBC's Top Gear, admitting he was "a bit of a pariah at school." Per Digital Spy, The Proposal star recalled being kicked out for moving his teacher's car down the block as a prank. "In Canada, if you move it more than 10 feet, it's a felony," he remembered. "I didn't know that. One city block was 100% grand theft."

Instead, he took on a role in the sitcomTwo Guys and a Girl, which ran for four seasons between 1998 and 2001. The series also starred Richard Ruccolo and Traylor Howard as 20-somethings navigating love, work, and growing up in Boston.

Luckily, turning down the role in Buffy the Vampire Slayer didn't affect Ryan's career as he went on to be one of Hollywood's biggest film stars.

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Spring is in full swing and summer is just around the corner, which means it’s a great time to give your home a deep clean. Organizing to keep your home streamlined and decluttered is an essential part of the process. If you currently have miscellaneous items sprawled around your home without a designated storage area, you may want to consider adding a storage cabinet or buffet to your living space. 

The ideal storage cabinet should seamlessly blend style and functionality, and pieces that lend themselves to the farmhouse aesthetic strike the perfect balance. There’s just something special about the farmhouse aesthetic — it can instantly make your home feel cozy and inviting while elevating the style of your living space. 

Looking to organize your home in a chic way as the spring cleaning season commences? We rounded up three stylish and sleek farmhouse storage cabinets that you can use to organize your bathroom, living room, and every other room in between. They’ll bring functionality to your living space while simultaneously sprucing it up. Read on to check out these cabinets that start at just $60! 

Costway 4-Drawer Floor Cabinet, From $79 (was $119) at Walmart

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Boasting four drawers on one side and a tall cabinet on the other, this storage piece is a dream for organization. Each drawer is 7.5 inches wide, 6 inches tall, and 9.5 inches deep, offering an ample amount of room to store everything from skincare products to miscellaneous trinkets and gadgets. The drawers have cutout pulls for easy access and stoppers, preventing you from pulling them all the way out. 

The side cabinet features a shelf, splitting it into two tiers. Each tier measures 14.5 inches tall and 10.5 inches deep. It’s ideal for stowing away larger and bulkier items like linens, cleaning supplies, and everything in between. The door of the cabinet is held secure by a magnetic closure, keeping everything inside safe. 

This storage cabinet is made from medium-density fiberboard (MDF) and engineered wood, and several shoppers raved about how sturdy it is. Measuring a total of 32.5 inches tall, 21.5 inches wide, and 12 inches deep, this piece is ideal for both small and large spaces alike, according to reviewers. “It holds everything I need without having to display it,” one customer commented. “It fit perfectly into a small space.”

Accented by vertical panels, this storage cabinet is oozing with farmhouse charm. Wherever you decide to place it, whether it be your bathroom, kitchen, living room, or bedroom, it’ll bring instant charm. 

Ktaxon Freestanding 2-Door Floor Cabinet, $60 (was $130) at Walmart Shop at Walmart

This freestanding cabinet is incredibly sturdy and customizable to the unique needs of your home. Made from engineered wood and divided into two sections, this piece features a roomy top drawer and larger storage area underneath behind two charming slatted doors. Inside, there's an adjustable shelf that you can move between three positions, giving you plenty of flexibility.

Whether you use it for towels in the bathroom, pantry items in the kitchen, or cleaning supplies in the laundry room, this cabinet is an easy way to add stylish storage to any part of the house. Because it's relatively compact — measuring 31.5 inches tall, about 24 inches wide, and about 12 inches deep — it won't overwhelm small spaces, either. Shop it in gray, white, and wood-tone hues, all of which are on sale for $60 right now.

Related: Walmart’s 'Beautiful' $60 Farmhouse Floor Lamp With a Built-in Table Is 'Great for Small Spaces'

Homfa Buffet Cabinet, $165 (was $300) at Walmart Shop at Walmart

For those with a larger living space and room to spare, this buffet cabinet would make a lovely addition to your home. With X-shaped panels and a sleek silhouette, this cabinet proves that organizing can be chic and stylish. While the panels already lend themselves to the farmhouse aesthetic, certain styles of this cabinet also feature an exposed wood grain finish that adds an even more rustic look. 

This buffet cabinet offers a plethora of storage options, with three drawers at the top and three cabinets at the bottom. The middle drawer is 24 inches wide, while the two on the side are 11 inches wide. All three measure 4.5 inches tall and 13 inches deep. You can use these as junk drawers for miscellaneous items, or to hold anything from utensils to gadgets.

Hidden behind two farmhouse doors, the middle cabinet measures 26 inches wide, while the two side cabinets, equipped with only one door, measure around 11 inches wide. The middle cabinet is fixed with a shelf, and the side cabinets have adjustable shelves to fit items of various heights.

This buffet is made from engineered wood. Sturdy and durable, the countertop has a generous 275-pound weight capacity. You can use this buffet to create your dream coffee bar, or use it to hold appliances that are currently cluttering your countertops. However, this cabinet isn’t just limited to kitchen and dining room use. Shoppers mentioned that they use it in the living room as a TV console, craft room, and more! 

“It is very pretty and is perfect in my craft room,” one reviewer said, “It can hold supplies and can also be used as a workspace.”

Shop More Deals 

• Better Homes & Gardens Farmhouse Bookcase, $168 (was $224) at Walmart
• Spanspace Farmhouse Lift Top Coffee Table, $150 at Walmart
• Sincido 6-Drawer Farmhouse Dresser, From $173 at Walmart

Want to declutter and streamline your home in style? If so, don’t hesitate to head to Walmart and check out these gorgeous farmhouse cabinets that are currently on sale starting at just $60!

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.

There are a few flavors I will always say yes to. If something manages to be smoky, tangy, a little sweet and perfectly salty all at once, I’m in. So when I started seeing Aldi shoppers rave about a $2 seasonal chip that apparently checks all those boxes, I was intrigued. It also happens to be a flavor I genuinely love, even though it’s not always easy to find in the U.S.

Aldi shoppers are raving about Clancy’s All Dressed Potato Chips, which are back in stock at Aldi for $2.19. They’re a limited-time summer item, and fans are stocking up.

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A Canadian Classic With a Loyal Following

All dressed chips are hugely popular in Canada. The flavor blends barbecue, ketchup, sour cream and onion, and salt and vinegar into one bold mix. The result is savory, sweet and tangy with a smoky tomato base and a sharp vinegar finish. The name comes from Quebec, where “all dressed” refers to a food that has all the toppings.

What to get a multi millionaire client as a thank you gift. Or should I not even try?
by u/pete40oz in AskReddit

For years, many snack lovers have said Ruffles makes the best version of this flavor, and Lay’s brought its all dressed chips back after fans demanded it. But Aldi shoppers say Clancy’s is a real competitor, especially considering the price.

Related: Paella Is Trending This Year—and This Gourmet Company Is Giving Home Cooks a Reason to Try It

Fans Are Calling Them the Best on the Market

Online reviews have been enthusiastic. One shopper noted that they can usually only find this flavor in Canada, but that "these are on par with our neighbors to the north. I bought three bags!" Others describe them as “hands down the best” and say they have “so much flavor.”

Fans say the seasoning is generous and well balanced. The mix of sweet, sour and savory makes them hard to put down. Several people admit they can easily finish a whole bag in one sitting.

Not everyone is convinced. One commenter joked that it’s “the one Canadian thing I cannot understand.” Still, even skeptics seem curious enough to try them.

Because they’re only available during the summer, many shoppers are grabbing multiple bags while they can. Some even believe that if enough people buy them, Aldi might turn them into a regular item.

At $2.19, it’s a low-risk Aldi snack with a lot of hype behind it. If you already love bold chip flavors like I do, this is the one to grab before it disappears again.

Related: Recall Issued for Popular Aldi Dessert Over Potential Glass Contamination