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Nancy Guthrie has been missing for 90 days and, according to NewsNation's Brian Entin, authorities don't have a suspect or any "solid leads" in the case. As the investigation continues, Parade spoke with Entin, who has been covering the case since the beginning.

In the interview, Entin and I discussed how Guthrie’s disappearance—and everything that’s followed—has felt like a movie.

"I still don't understand. How does an 84-year-old woman literally just vanish from her bed?" Entin says. "I think the mystery of it all, too, people are just sort of infatuated with."

One moment, however, stood out as especially chilling for Entin.

"When the pictures came out. When the FBI put out the pictures of the suspect in the mask, with the gloves on at the front door. That's what I said, too. This actually feels like a horror movie. This is worse than I even expected," Entin says.

After the photos were released—about two weeks after Guthrie's disappearance—authorities received thousands of tips. Unfortunately, none of those tips have led to an arrest. Anyone with information about the case is asked to call the FBI (1-800-CALL-FBI).

Although Entin is no longer staying in Arizona, he is still covering the Guthrie case. He will be hosting a new television special, NewsNation Presents: The Nancy Guthrie Mystery, that will air on the CW on Wednesday, May 6, at 9 p.m. Eastern.

READ NEXT: Brian Entin Gives Inside Look at SWAT Raid He Thought Was a Turning Point in the Nancy Guthrie Case

Bewitched star Erin Murphy and her sister Diane made a rare public appearance to celebrate a new movie. In a post to Facebook on May 1, Erin, 61, posed with her twin on the red carpet for a special screening of the Lifetime movie Love, Again. The movie, which will premiere on May 9, 2026, stars Valerie Bertinelli and Eric McCormack as a couple who find an unexpected love later in life.

In the photo, Erin wore a dark green maxi dress while her sister wore an aqua-colored blouse and black slacks. The two posed on the red carpet in front of a Lifetime banner.

“Fun night at the Love, Again screening with my sis,” the Bewitched alum captioned the photo.

Erin also posted a second selfie-style photo from inside the screening room, which she captioned to explain why the sisters were in attendance at the premiere.  “We had a great time at the Love, Again screening at the Television Academy,” the former child star wrote. “I’m a voting member for the Emmys and they have tons of events with great food and Q & A’s with the actors.”

RELATED: Erin Murphy Poses Like Her ‘Bewitched’ Mom and the Resemblance Is Wild

Diane Murphy usually stays out of the spotlight

In 1966, fraternal twins Erin and Diane were cast in the role of Tabitha, the magical daughter of Darrin and Samantha Stephens (Dick York, Elizabeth Montgomery) on the hit ABCsitcomBewitched. Erin ultimately remained on the series until its end in 1972, while Diane bowed out after 21 episodes. Not only did the twins begin to look less alike as they got older, but Diane wasn’t as interested in acting as Erin was.

Erin and Diane Murphy on the set of 'Bewitched.'

Photo by Bettmann on Getty Images

In a 2025 interview with Celebrity Drop, Erin said she sometimes secretly did “double duty” on the Bewitched set, unbeknownst to the welfare worker tasked with enforcing the child labor laws.

Of her sister, Erin added, “[Show business] is not for everybody. I mean not everybody likes the lights and the camera and the attention and all that. It’s a lot. And she's not like that."

"She's more reserved," Erin said of Diane. "She's, you know, quieter than I am. And she works in medical writing. She's done that for many years, and she's very successful at it. And we're close as can be, but as different as two people could be as well.”

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Spring always brings a bit of a style identity crisis. One day it’s cold enough for layers, the next it’s warm enough to reconsider everything in your closet. The same goes for color—winter’s deeper tones can start to feel too heavy, while anything overly light or bright can feel slightly out of place. Getting dressed becomes less about instinct and more about trial and error.

Thankfully, one shade has been quietly cutting through all of that: chocolate brown. It’s rich without feeling heavy, neutral without feeling flat and somehow manages to work across temperatures in a way most colors don’t. Often considered a softer alternative to black, it adds depth and warmth while still feeling grounded and easy to wear.

"What I love about chocolate brown is how effortless it feels," says celebrity stylist Ana Brillembourg, who has collaborated with brands like Moncler and Bottega Veneta. "It gives you depth without trying too hard." That ease is exactly what makes it work for spring. The key is in how you style it—balancing it with lighter textures, softer tones and pieces that keep it from feeling too wintery.

So, I tried to figure out how to style the popular color by putting it to the test with five different chocolate brown outfit ideas to see how it actually translates day to day. Spoiler alert: I discovered some of my new favorite styles. Read on for the looks that made chocolate brown feel like the most wearable neutral of the season.

Related: These Are the 7 Best Jean Colors for Spring 2026, According to a Celebrity Stylist

Is Chocolate Brown Considered a Neutral Color?

Chocolate brown is having a bit of a rebrand moment—and yes, it absolutely qualifies as a neutral. As Brillembourg tells Parade, it has "the same versatility as black or navy but feels softer and a bit more elevated," which is exactly why it’s resonating right now. It anchors an outfit the way a classic neutral should, but without the sharpness that can sometimes come with darker shades. Instead, it adds depth while still feeling warm and approachable, making it especially easy to wear as the seasons shift.

That flexibility is what really seals the deal. New York City fashion stylist Rachel Newman notes that it "functions well as a ‘go-with-everything’ choice and acts as a great base for a multitude of different colors, prints and patterns," which means it plays nicely with everything from crisp whites to soft pastels and even bolder hues. In practice, it works less like a statement color and more like the foundation of a look; the piece that quietly pulls everything together while letting the rest of your outfit do its thing.

Related: These Are the Best Shoes To Wear With Dresses, According to Celebrity Stylists

Edward Berthelot/Getty Images

Is Chocolate Brown Trending in 2026?

Short answer: very much so. Chocolate brown is stepping into the spotlight as fashion leans into richer, more grounded tones, and as Brillembourg explains, it "fits perfectly into that movement," offering something that feels "warm, sophisticated and a little more directional than the classic neutrals."

Chocolate brown is no longer reserved for fall layers or winter knits—this shade is showing up everywhere, from sharp tailoring to breezy resort wear, proving it has far more range than people once gave it credit for.

What’s really driving the trend is its new seasonless appeal. Durand Guion, Senior Vice President, Fashion Office at Burlington Stores, notes that chocolate brown has been "a strong trend color for the second year in a row," but the bigger shift is how it’s being worn now. "Deeper shades of brown are now seasonless," he explains, meaning they carry just as much weight in spring and summer as they do in colder months.

That shift is already showing up in real time, with chocolate tones becoming a go-to styling choice for festival dressing, proving this isn’t a fleeting moment—it’s a full-on rotation in how neutrals are defined.

Related: The ‘Old Money’ Scarf Trend That Elevates Any Outfit Instantly, According to Stylists

5 Chocolate Brown Outfit Ideas: How To Style the Popular Color1. Monochromatic look

Courtesy Alyssa Rotunno

I wanted to start with a monochromatic look because it’s one of the easiest ways to make chocolate brown (or, really, any color) feel intentional in the right way. Instead of overthinking the set, I leaned fully in, styling a Beyond Nine Mabel Linen Barrel Leg Trousers ($174) and their Elodie Linen Top ($96), which felt relaxed but still pulled together.

Newman says she’s "always a huge proponent of a monochromatic look, regardless of the season," and I get why. It instantly creates a sense of cohesion, and with a color like this, it feels rich without being overwhelming. And for spring, choosing a lighter fabric like linen makes all the difference—it keeps the look breathable and stops the deeper tone from feeling too heavy.

What made this outfit really work was playing with simplicity rather than over-styling it. Newman recommends keeping things "pared back," which is exactly the mindset here—keep the palette consistent, let the shapes and textures do the work. I finished it with a classic white Diadora Trainer leather sneaker to break things up just enough and give it that off-duty feel (and if you want to lean in to that casual feel, some EYEBUYDIRECT Valmont Sunglasses ($56) really add to the vibe). It felt easy but still elevated, and made me realize how wearable chocolate brown actually is. No second thoughts.

2. Styled with white

Courtesy Alyssa Rotunno

This look instantly clicked for me. I paired a chocolate brown American Eagle Halter Top ($26.21, originally $34.95) with Silver Jeans Co. High-Rise Slim Barrel-Leg Jeans in an ecru color, and finished it with easy clog-style shoes (which are from Primark—one of the few places I can reliably find a size 10 shoe that’s actually cute). The whole thing felt fresh in a way I wasn’t expecting.

Newman explains that pairing chocolate brown "with crisp white instantly freshens it for spring," and the lighter denim acted as that contrast, breaking up the richness and making everything feel more seasonal. It’s exactly that balance that makes chocolate brown work right now (aka, it's grounding, but not heavy).

What I liked most about this outfit is how easy it felt to recreate. The top adds just enough structure with its halter shape (and shows off my collar bones!), while the barrel-leg jeans bring in a relaxed, slightly directional silhouette that keeps it from feeling basic. My biggest tip is to keep the palette clean and let one piece do the talking. Whether that’s swapping in a white button-down, darker denim or even white accessories, it’s that contrast that makes chocolate brown feel spring-ready instead of fall-coded.

3. Brown and denim

Courtesy Alyssa Rotunno

I didn’t expect this to be one of my favorite combinations, but it ended up feeling the most natural to wear. There’s something about throwing on denim that instantly relaxes an outfit—and pairing it with chocolate brown gives it just enough edge to feel considered.

I went with a Solmar Basic Ribbed-Knit Polo Jumper and Urban Outfitters BDG Baggy Barrel Jeans ($69), which created that high-low mix I’m always drawn to. As Brillembourg notes, "chocolate brown softens denim and makes it feel more refined," and you can really see that shift happen here. It takes what could feel overly casual and gives it a bit more intention.

The trick here is balance. The top keeps things clean and close to the body, while the jeans bring volume and a slightly undone feel that makes the outfit interesting. Brillembourg points out that a "clean, straight-leg jean... keeps the look polished but still easy," and even though I leaned into a looser silhouette, the same principle holds—denim should feel deliberate, not accidental.

I added a statement red kitten heel to sharpen it up, but this is one of those outfits that can flex depending on your day. It works because the brown grounds everything, while the denim keeps it from ever feeling too serious or styled.

Related: Celebrity Stylists Say Low-Rise Baggy Jeans Will Be Huge This Spring—Here’s How To Style the Look 

4. Layered with soft neutrals

Courtesy Alyssa Rotunno

This one felt undeniably spring—florals are part of the equation (of course), but styled this way, they feel fresh instead of predictable. The chocolate brown Popilush Shapewear Seamless Modal Henley Tank Bodysuit ($55) paired with a soft, patterned midi skirt created this really easy balance—nothing felt too loud, but it still had personality. There’s a quiet contrast happening here that makes the outfit feel interesting without trying too hard, almost like it’s doing more than it looks like it is at first glance.

The skirt itself does a lot of the work through movement, so I kept everything else intentionally simple. I finished it with Haviana's Slim Square Flip Flops ($40) to keep it relaxed, and if you want to level up the look, a denim jacket —like ShowPo's Ruby Jacket ($58, originally $119.95)—always pairs nicely with florals.

Brillembourg explains that layered neutrals like this create "a tonal, effortless palette," and you really feel that when the pieces aren’t competing. Newman also talks about pairing chocolate brown with lighter or pastel-adjacent tones, and letting accessories stay in the same color family, which is exactly what makes this formula so wearable for spring. It’s the kind of outfit that lets colors sit comfortably next to each other, relying on harmony and texture.

5. Keep it cool

This look is the one I keep coming back to when I want chocolate brown to feel effortless for spring without losing its richness. I built the outfit around an Express Gold Button V-Neck Sweater Vest ($58.50, originally $70) and paired it with Lee's Legendary Trouser Jeans ($54.99). There’s an easy contrast happening here that makes it all work—the brown reads grounded and warm, while the dark denim brings in that sophisticated yet relaxed energy that spring styling always benefits from. What I love the most is how the vest gives structure without feeling heavy, especially thanks to the open neckline and sleeveless cut, which keeps everything light enough for transitional weather.

The goal was to let each piece do a different job. The sweater vest sits close to the body, which instantly sharpens the silhouette and keeps the chocolate brown feeling intentional rather than weighty. And the jeans bring in that elongated, wide-leg shape that moves easily and keeps the outfit from feeling too buttoned-up, especially with the soft crease running through the leg.

Then I finished it with Bearpaw Colette Platform Sandals ($69.99), which ground the look while still adding a bit of lift, making the whole outfit feel ready for anything from a casual workday to late-afternoon plans. It’s that sweet spot where chocolate brown takes the edge off lighter spring fabrics and makes denim feel a little more elevated, without ever losing that easygoing energy. A total win-win.

Up Next:

Related: What To Wear With Black Jeans—6 Best Outfit Ideas, According to a Celebrity Stylist

Sources:

• Ana Brillembourg is a celebrity stylist.
• Rachel Newman is an NYC fashion stylist.
• Durand Guion is the Senior Vice President, Fashion Office at Burlington Stores.

Goodreads users have put together a list of the funniest memoirs, which contain books from well-known comedians like Chelsea Handler, Ellen DeGeneres, and Kathy Griffin. Coming in at the very top of the list is an autobiography written by a comedy legend.   

Bossypants is a 2011 memoir written by Tina Fey, who played Liz Lemon on 30 Rock and starred on SNL from 1997 to 2006. The audiobook version of the novel, narrated by the star herself, was Grammy-nominated. It went on to sell over 3 million copies and remained at the top of the The New York Times Best Seller list for five weeks in a row.

The memoir detailed Fey’s journey from being a young child with dreams of becoming a comedian on television to those dreams becoming a reality. In addition to her iconic roles on SNL and 30 Rock, Fey also appeared in hits like Mean Girls, Baby Mama, and Date Night.

Fey is also a writer and producer who created the television series, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, and the musical adaptation of Mean Girls, which ran on Broadway and secured her a Tony Award nomination.

Related: 1955 ‘I Love Lucy’ Episode, Starring William Holden, Was Ranked No. 1 in the Entire Series

Whether or not you’re a fan of the comedian’s past work, you can enjoy her book. As one Goodreads reader, who gave the book five stars, said, “I didn't really know who Tina Fey was when I picked it up. I had a dim awareness of her being one of the SNL people, and an actress. But that's it. I also didn't know she was in charge of 30 Rock. (A show I've seen exactly one episode of.) So I didn't come into this book as a fan. I became a fan by listening to it. I'm probably one of the few people that's going to start watching the show because of the book, rather than the other way around.”

Also making the list of best memoirs were Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? by Mindy Kaling and Yes Please by Fey’s most prominent comedy partner, Amy Poehler.

Donna Summeris inarguably the queen of disco music, and released a track in 1978 for a musical comedy that became a genre sensation. With the help of her regular collaborator Giorgio Moroder, they released a hit track that didn't top the charts, but did earn an even bigger award: an Oscar.

Thank God It's Fridaywas a musical comedy produced by Motown Pictures during the height of the disco era. It told several intertwining stories of the patrons and staff of a groovy Los Angeles disco club called The Zoo over the course of a Friday night. The film wasn't a jaw-dropping box office success, but it had a stellar cast. Jeff Goldblum played the leading role of Tony Di Marco in one of his earliest performances, alongside Debra Wingeras Jennifer in her first major on-screen appearance.

What also made the film stand out was its musical stars playing leading roles. Berlin's Terri Nunn played Jeannie in her only film role, with Summer also appearing as Nicole Sims, an aspiring disco singer. While Thank God It's Friday featured the Commodores performing "Too Hot to Trot," it was Summer's "Last Dance" that received critical acclaim.

"Last Dance" came about due to Summer's role in the film, seeing as her character brings a demo version of the track to the club's disc jockey, hoping to perform it. Throughout the film, the disc jockey refuses until the film's final moments, leading to a sensational performance by Summer. The track ended up entering the Billboard Hot 100 charts and peaking at No. 3, and stayed in the Top 10 for several weeks.

Related: This Beloved 1972 Soft Rock Song Hit No. 1—and Still Feels Timeless

Rolling Stone ranked the track at No. 200 of the "Greatest Dance Songs of All Time," showcasing that disco was "ready to jump the shark" at the time. "Last Dance" was also a first in the disco genre for its ballad-style opening that switches gears into a dynamic dance fever.

According to the song's arranger, Bob Esty, songwriter Paul Jabara was the one to have convinced Summer to record the track. Some drama ensued, according to Esty, who helped rearrange the entire track alongside Summer. Despite Moroder not liking the track or the idea of Summer singing in full vocal, Esty believed he'd receive co-producing and co-writing credit.

Instead, the credit went to only Jabara, who would win an Oscar for Best Original Song for "Last Dance" in 1979. He also won a Golden Globe in the same category, along with a  Grammy Award for Best Rhythm & Blues Song. The track also earned Summer her first of many Grammys in the category Best R&B Vocal Performance, Female.

Breaking news: COVID-19 is still going around right as allergy season is to starting wreak havoc on our sinuses, giving our upper respiratory systems a double whammy of discomfort. What makes this particularly tricky is that a lot of COVID symptoms overlap with allergies.

Many people who get COVID-19 infections in the spring ignore one particular symptom that they mistake for hay fever: The dreaded sore throat.

It's not too surprising: As someone who sounds like Fran Drescher and Jeezy's cursed love child if I'm outside on a high-pollen count day for 10 minutes, it's easy to dismiss a scratchy throat this time of year as run-of-the-mill allergies. However, if you're in a particularly at-risk group—for example, if you have asthma, a compromised immune system, other pulmonary or heart issues or are on the "older and wiser" side—ignoring a sore throat can be dangerous.

Great. We know!

So how can you tell the difference between trees, grass, flowers, weeds and the general beauty of spring versus a potentially deadly virus making your throat hurt? Grab your lozenges and read on to find out.

Related: 7 Reasons Why You May Have a Sore Throat

SimpleImages/Getty Images

Is a COVID Sore Throat Different From a Normal Sore Throat?

The answer is, it depends. A COVID sore throat can be different from sore throats from other causes, but it isn't always.

Dr. Carlos Zambrano, MD, infectious disease specialist at Loretto Hospital in Chicago, tells Parade that some patients are still experiencing the super-painful "razor blade throat" that first emerged last June. The razor blade throat often feels like a sharp, stabbing pain in the back of the throat.

"There has been some anecdotal evidence of a sore throat being more prominent with the recent Stratus strain of COVID," Dr. Michael J. Davis, DO, MPH, infectious disease specialist at Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne, Ind., explains. "When experienced, the sore throat will be more severe in the early stages of the infection; however, it typically will improve over a few days. It’s expected to show a similar trajectory as other cases of viral pharyngitis."

However, most of the time, the sore throat you get with a coronavirus infection will feel pretty much the same as one you'd get from being outside on a pollen-heavy day.

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"There are so many variations of sore throats," Dr. Tyler Smith, Ph.D., statistical epidemiologist and professor at National University, explains. "Some report their sore throats are terribly scratchy, burning and cause significant pain from swallowing. Many infectious diseases present the same way, depending on the bug and the person."

"COVID sore throat feels similar to other viral sore throats and usually comes with other symptoms (fatigue, congestion, headache)," Dr. Subhash Verma, MD, Ph.D., professor of microbiology and immunology at University of Nevada, Reno, says. "There is no specific throat sensation that confirms COVID."

When it comes to telling the difference between a COVID sore throat and a run-of-the-mill one, Dr. Steven Goldberg, MD, MBA,primary care physician and chief medical officer at HealthTrackRx, says, "Honestly, not in a way most people can reliably tell apart on their own. A COVID sore throat tends to be a scratchy, raw, irritated feeling—often described as more of a 'dry burn'—and it typically comes alongside other symptoms like fatigue, body aches or congestion."

What makes COVID sore throat particularly sneaky is that it can be the only prominent symptom early on, or it can look exactly like allergies or a common cold, so people dismiss it. "Sore throat has become one of the most common COVID-19 symptoms in the Omicron era—reported in 60% to 86% of infections—yet it's also one of the least specific, meaning it doesn't reliably distinguish COVID-19 from other causes," Dr. Goldberg says.

He added that there is one type of sore throat that you may be able to discern specifically from allergies and COVID, however: Strep throat. He explains, "A strep throat, by contrast, tends to come on very suddenly with severe pain, high fever, swollen and/or tender lymph nodes in the neck and sometimes white patches on the tonsils—and notably, strep usually does not come with cough, runny nose or congestion."

Related: Got a Lingering Cough? Here's When to Worry, According to Doctors

How Can I Tell the Difference Between COVID Symptoms and Seasonal Allergy Symptoms?

"The only way to differentiate COVID symptoms from allergies, influenza, RSV or even
the common cold, is testing, really," Dr. S. Wesley Long, MD, PhD., director of diagnostic microbiology at Houston Methodist Hospital, tells Parade. "There are combination tests for COVID and flu A/B available now over the counter. If they are negative, then you may want to talk to your doctor about your symptoms, which could be allergies, strep throat or a common cold."

That said, there are things to look out for. "Look at the pattern: It is more likely to be COVID if it comes with fever, fatigue, body aches, headache and possible GI symptoms," Dr. Verma adds.

Dr. Goldberg agrees, noting that there are a few symptoms specific to allergies that may help you tell which condition is causing you to feel crummy.

"Beyond testing, there are some practical clues," Dr. Goldberg says. "Allergies tend to cause itchy eyes, itchy nose, sneezing, and clear watery nasal discharge—and they do not cause fever, body aches or significant fatigue."

COVID, even mild cases, more commonly bring fatigue, muscle aches, and sometimes fever or chills alongside the upper respiratory symptoms. "A few rules of thumb: Itchiness (eyes, nose, throat) strongly favors allergies. Body aches, fatigue or fever favor COVID or another infection. New-onset symptoms that feel different from one's usual allergy pattern warrant a COVID test," he emphasizes.

Related: The Common Mistake That Increases Your Risk of Catching COVID Twice This Season

Are COVID Treatments and Allergy Treatments the Same?

Not always. "Sometimes yes, sometimes no,"Dr. Andrew Benin, MD, primary care physician and co-founder of BeninMed, tells Parade. "Symptomatic treatment has some overlap: Rest, hydration, over-the-counter meds if needed, such as Tylenol, ibuprofen, etc. Paxlovid, an anti-viral therapy, is still sometimes prescribed if COVID is caught early in our more high-risk patients."

"There’s some overlap in symptom relief, but the treatments aren’t identical," Dr. Long agrees. "Simple measures like warm fluids, salt water gargles, rest, hydration and over-the-counter pain relievers can help ease a sore throat, whether it’s caused by COVID or allergies. However, the underlying treatments differ, and allergies are typically managed with antihistamines, nasal sprays and avoiding triggers, while COVID, especially in high-risk individuals, may require antiviral medications."

Testing is important when determining how to treat your sore throat, Dr. Snehal Smart, MD, patient advocate at the Mesothelioma Center, advises.

"Some sore throats can be due to Strep A, which is a bacterium, while COVID is a virus. Bacterial infections require antibiotics and viral infections require antivirals," she says. "Antibiotics would not help with COVID. However, over-the-counter pain relievers, hydration and soothing remedies can help manage the symptoms for both COVID and other sore throats."

Further, if you have severe symptoms, please don't try to battle them alone.

Dr. Charles Bailey, MD, medical director for infection prevention at Providence St. Joseph Hospital and Providence Mission Hospital in Southern Calif., urges, "Medical attention should be sought if symptoms such as sore throat or cough are severe or not well-controlled by over-the-counter symptomatic medications (as this might indicate a cause that would benefit from targeted prescription treatment) and especially if shortness of breath or chest discomfort develop, as these symptoms are suggestive of possible pneumonia."

Up Next:

Related: Doctors Warn Against This Common Cold Remedy Mistake That Actually Makes Symptoms Worse

Sources:

• Dr. Charles Bailey, MD
• Dr. Andrew Benin, MD
• Dr. Joseph Bresee, MD
• Dr. Michael J. Davis, DO, MPH
• Dr. Tyler Smith, Ph.D.
• Dr. Steven Goldberg, MD, MBA
• Dr. S. Wesley Long, MD, PhD.
• Dr. Snehal Smart, MD
• Dr. Subhash Verma, MD, Ph.D.
• Dr. Carlos Zambrano, MD

The first Saturday in May hosts the Kentucky Derby, bringing out some of the biggest stars from Hollywood celebrities to well-known athletes. And while many fans are wondering if Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce will make their Derby debut at Churchill Downs later on today, the power duo has impacted racing odds.

According to Fox Sports, rumors that Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce have a 10% ownership stake in Derby contender “The Puma” have influenced the betting odds for today's race. Speculation about "The Puma" hit a fever pitch when the horse's co-owner, Michael Iavarone, took to Instagram with a photo of the colt with the following caption.

"OK people. Everyone asking me if Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce are partners on The Puma… all I can say is I signed an NDA, so I can’t confirm or deny," he wrote, according to the outlet.

The Puma runs on the track during the morning training for the 152nd Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs on April 30, 2026 in Louisville, Kentucky.

Andy Lyons/Getty Images

As of Saturday morning, however, The Puma—listed at 10-1—had scratched.

"We discovered some swelling in his leg due to a skin infection,” trainer Gustavo Delgado said, according to the Courier Journal. "It’s incredibly disappointing, but the swelling should go down within a day or two. It’s just really bad timing."

Delgado said that The Puma is likely out of the upcoming Preakness (May 16) as well.

Although it's still not clear whether Kelce and Swift have any stake in "The Puma," Kelce does own a share in a racehorse. In 2024, he purchased "Swift Delivery" alongside the Zoldan family. The horse, trained by Mark E. Casse, will not be racing in the 2026 Kentucky Derby.

In the words of Henry Ward Beecher, "The art of being happy lies in the power of extracting happiness from common things." Sometimes, we get lost in the idea of waiting to live for the weekends, but the present moment is a gift, where true happiness resides. When we can find joy in mundane moments, we come closer to enlightenment and true fulfillment that exists outside of external circumstances. Expert numerologists and astrologers note that four birth dates stand out for their ability to find magic in ordinary moments.

Which Birth Dates Find Magic in Life's Ordinary Moments?

Check for your birth date. Disregard birth months.

Born on the 4th — The Quiet Observer

Numerologists associate the number 4 with foundational hard work and enduring efforts. Individuals born on the 4th are not interested in quick fixes or short-lived successes; instead, they understand that true fulfillment comes from playing the long game. Ruled by Uranus, the planet of innovation, these people aim to challenge the status quo and create systems that promote progress. They find joy in everyday moments, and their keen observational skills and presence provide grounding for both themselves and others.

Born on the 15th — The Beauty Seeker

Venus, the planet of affectionate warmth, blesses the path of your birth date. You have a magnetic charm that pulls others into your gravitational orbit effortlessly—what's not to love? You see life imitating art, finding natural beauty in the everyday wonders we often take for granted. Social by nature, you build connections, foster community, and express love, wearing your heart on your sleeve like a badge of honor. With rose-colored glasses, you seek the silver lining and, on your best days, spread inspirational joy to others.

RELATE?: The 4 Birth Dates With a Natural "Don't Mess With Me" Aura

Born on the 27th — The Meaning Maker

People born on the 27th wish to live life to the fullest. Ruled by the warrior planet Mars, known for action, you often feel eager for your next great adventure or opportunity. You are passionate and willing to blaze your own trail. While others may take life for granted, you understand that it is too short to sit around and wait for permission to pursue your dreams. You chase what you desire until it becomes your own, finding great joy in the small signs of success along the way. You don’t wait for major milestones to celebrate; instead, you actively look for reasons to believe in your mission.

CUTE!: Which Baby Farm Animal Matches You, Based on Your Birth Month

Born on the 30th — The Joyful Wonder

Those born on the 30th of any month possess a radiant aura. Guided by the planet Jupiter, known for its association with expansion, you approach life with optimism. While everyone experiences dark moments, you tend to focus on the bigger picture. You believe that with faith, there's nothing you can't achieve. This mindset makes your everyday life feel especially sacred. As you walk your path, you share wisdom, advice, and inspiration with others. You seek good omens and positive signs, assigning philosophical meaning to challenges, which allows you to view them as lessons rather than permanent obstacles.

UP NEXT:

Two NBC shows have been quietly canceled. Brilliant Minds, the medical drama starring Zachary Quinto, is ending after two seasons. The series, which was inspired by novels written by Oliver Sacks, was about a neurologist and his team of interns who tackle rare, psychological cases at Bronx General Hospital. The final episodes will air this summer.

"The conversation around network versus streaming has shifted," Quinto said in a 2024 interview with Entertainment Weekly. "And the industry has experienced a return to [a type of] television it had departed pretty significantly from. There's something about the reliability of [network procedurals]. Audiences are more interested in appointment television than they were for a little while." Unfortunately, even though Brilliant Minds drew in many fans, it did not last on the network.

NBC has also announced that the mockumentary, Stumble, is coming to an end after a single season. The series, which starred Jenn Lyon and Taran Killam with appearances by Kristin Chenoweth, was a laugh-out-loud comedy about a college cheer squad. Its final episode aired in March 2026.

Related: The Highly Anticipated Sequel to a Cult Classic ‘90s Movie Has Been Quietly Scrapped by Peacock

According to The Hollywood Reporter, “Both shows were among NBC’s least watched scripted series of the season. With seven days of linear viewing (i.e., before streaming), Brilliant Minds averaged just above 3 million viewers, a smaller total than any other drama on the network this season. Stumble, meanwhile, came in at 2.24 million viewers.”

Fans of both shows have expressed disappointment at the cancellations, with some wishing that comedies like Stumble were advertised more. As one commenter on Reddit said, “I literally only found out about [Stumble] because of fans begging for it to not get canned.” Another said, “So angry about Stumble. We don’t need any more hospital or detective shows. Give us comedy!”

Many are hoping that just because NBC has canceled their beloved shows doesn’t mean that they are gone forever. As one person said, “Praying [Stumble] goes on another streaming service so it gets the views it deserves and hopefully gets picked up.”

Although these two NBC shows are coming to an end, there should be more new shows in the near future. NBC has ordered eight pilots, which is more than usual, which could be coming to your screen soon.

Roger Daltrey, the frontman of the iconic rock band The Who, expanded his legacy in music after landing a career-defining role in the ‘80s.

46 years ago, the lead vocalist and founding member of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame-inducted band starred in McVicar, a British biographical crime drama.

Based on the true story of the infamous armed robber John McVicar, the story centers around his escape from a high-security prison in hopes of living under the radar with his son and wife.

During this challenging and very critical time, McVicar experienced intense paranoia, which led to chaotic decisions.

Directed by the prolific filmmaker Tom Clegg, the foundation of the screenplay was based on McVicar’s autobiography, which he wrote while still in prison.

Roger Daltrey as John McVicar in the 1980 biopic 'McVicar.'

Universal History Archive/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

Beyond the interesting plot, the 1980 movie also featured an impressive cast ensemble led by the vocalist of The Who.

Daltrey was able to impress the public with his striking portrayal of McVicar, which helped elevate the film into a standout success.

Based on audience feedback from Rotten Tomatoes, a known review-aggregation website for film and television, he was praised for being an “underrated actor” with many also highlighting the film’s “good supporting cast.”

“This was a chance for Roger Daltrey to flex his acting muscles and do something different,” a user said.

Others also pointed out that the rock icon’s portrayal was “surprisingly convincing,” especially from a musician.

“Good film, and great acting from the legend that is Roger Daltrey,” one wrote.

“The dedication to the role of John McVicar has to be respected here. Roger Daltrey is clearly in great physical shape and immerses himself fully into the character; let's not forget he's the lead singer of The Who,” a commenter added.

Although it was considered a commercial success at the time, McVicar failed to receive recognition from major award-giving bodies like the Oscars or BAFTAs.

However, it secured the 12th place among the most successful films of 1980 in the U.K. and was nominated at the International Mystery Film Festival of Cattolica in 1981 for Best Picture.

Beyond his role as the lead star for McVicar, the award-winning singer also recorded and produced the soundtrack for the 1980 movie, making this his fourth solo studio album, which featured hit tracks like "Free Me" and "Without Your Love."

Related: ’90s Hit Television Crime Show Is Suddenly Climbing the Charts 33 Years After Its Release

While most of us are just starting to reach for the sunscreen, Walt Disney World is already looking toward the harvest moon. The Disney Parks Blog has officially dropped its first look at the 2026 autumn season, confirming that the transformation into a "Florida Fall" will begin as early as August. From pumpkin-lined streets to the return of fan-favorite festivals, the resort is preparing for a high-velocity season of "magic around every corner."

Related: Disney World Fans Are Calling This New Summer 2026 Deal ‘Life Changing’

Main Street’s Autumn Makeover

The seasonal shift is always most visible at Magic Kingdom, where the classic Americana of Main Street, U.S.A. will be "dressed up in autumnal charm" with a palette of red, yellow and orange. According to Kati Gauer of the Disney Parks Blog, "This fall season, Magic Kingdom Park will once again transform and flaunt russet adornments for all to enjoy, with red, yellow and orange decor sprouting in Fantasyland and Frontierland." For 2026, the decor is also expanding into Storybook Circus, featuring "the cutest pumpkins inspired by a flying elephant and his pint-sized ringleader."

The Return of Spooky Season

For many, fall at Disney is synonymous with Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. The 2026 dates have been confirmed to run from August 7 through October 31. Tickets for the hard-ticket event officially go on sale May 5 for resort guests and May 12 for the general public.

Outside of the party, a "fang-favorite" is returning to Disney Springs. Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar will once again host its nostalgic Halloween takeover. As the blog notes, "You’ll be surrounded by Halloween décor, new sinister sips, and eerie eats you won’t want to miss!" Meanwhile, Hollywood Studios will offer Minnie’s Halloween Dine at Hollywood and Vine, where characters appear in their "Halloween best" for festive meals.

Related: A Beloved Disney Ride Is Nearing the End of Its 28-Year Run

Festival Season and Global Flavors

The EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival remains the cornerstone of the fall calendar, scheduled to run from August 27 to November 21, 2026. This year's event promises the return of global marketplaces and the Eat to the Beat Concert Series. To keep younger travelers engaged, Pluto’s Pumpkin Pursuit—a "festive scavenger hunt to find hidden decorative pumpkins"—will return to the park, offering a spooky keepsake for those who complete the map.

Related: The One Disney Attraction Built 37 Years Ago Today That Everyone Still Wishes They Could Ride One Last Time

New Experiences for 2026

The blog also highlighted several new additions making their fall debut, including the “Zootopia: Better Zoogether!” 4-D show at Animal Kingdom’s Tree of Life Theater. Families can also venture to the Conservation Station for Bluey’s Wild World, featuring appearances by Bluey and Bingo. Between the new entertainment and the 4-Day, 4-Park Magic Ticket deals starting at $109 per day, Disney is positioning this autumn as the ultimate "well-earned escape."

Related: Bluey Is Finally Coming to Disney World—Here Are the Details

Stranger Things fans barely had time to finish Season 1 of Tales From '85 before Netflixtold them there was more on the way.

The animated spinoff premiered April 23, set between Seasons 2 and 3 of the original live-action series and following Eleven, Mike, Will, Dustin, Lucas, and Max through a new Hawkins mystery involving the Upside Down. Five days later, on April 28, the official Stranger Things Instagram account shared the news with the caption 'big news nerds!!! Tales From '85 season 2 — coming this fall!' Netflix simultaneously released a brief teaser announcing the second season's arrival.

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The announcement came to a divided fandom that hadn't yet fully sorted out how it felt about Season 1. Season 1 received a 63% score from critics on Rotten Tomatoes and a 54% audience score, numbers that reflect a response somewhere between tolerant and genuinely frustrated. Many fans had objections baked in before the show ever aired. The original cast did not return to voice their animated counterparts, and the show debuted less than four months after the controversial Stranger Things Season 5 finale aired on New Year's Eve. That ending left a significant portion of the audience dissatisfied, and Tales From '85 inherited that controversy.

Related: The Duffer Brothers Dropped a Terrifying New Trailer, and It Has Nothing to Do With 'Stranger Things'

The final Netflix Top 10 report of April 2026 showed Tales From '85 accrued 13.8 million hours streamed and 2.3 million views in its first five days, a figure Netflix framed positively, noting it placed in the top 15 animated series debuts on the platform. Critics pointed out that both Running Point Season 2 and a new thriller called Unchosenoutperformed it by significant margins in the same window.

On social media, enthusiasm and exhaustion arrived in roughly equal measure. Supporters celebrated the show's retro animation style and its faithful use of the original characters. Skeptics on Instagram were blunter: 'Season 2? Dawg we didn't even want the first one,' read one comment.

Showrunner Eric Roblesframed Season 2 as a natural continuation. He teased a new paranormal threat emerging from Hawkins' abandoned silver mines, along with a mysterious blue flower last seen blooming in the Upside Down at the end of Season 1. Season 2 is expected to land on Netflix before Halloween 2026. The Duffer Brothers remain executive producers on both seasons.

It is possible Tales From '85 was always going to receive a second season regardless of its reception, given that Netflix routinely orders animated series in pairs to offset the extended production timelines the format requires. Whether viewers catch up before Season 2 arrives is a separate question, and one Netflix is clearly betting on the affirmative.

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Spirit Airlines has canceled all flights effective immediately.

While news that the airline was going to cease operations didn't come as a shock to most travelers, many were left surprised that the airline canceled all of its flights without much warning.

Those with flights booked through the airline should not go to the airport. Flights booked through Spirit's website using a debit or credit card will be refunded. Travelers who purchased airline tickets through a third party, you much go through that third party to get your money back.

"It is with great disappointment that Spirit Airlines has started winding down its global operations, effective immediately," a statement from the company reads. "All flights have been cancelled, and customer service is no longer available. While we are notable to help rebook your flight on another airline, we will automatically process refunds for any flights purchased through Spirit with a credit or debit card to the original form of payment. We are proud of the impact of our ultra-low-cost model on the industry for the last 33 years and had hoped to serve our Guests for many years to come."

The airline shutdown will also affect thousands of workers. The IAM Union (International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers) has released a statement on behalf of all employees who are now out of work.

"Today’s news is devastating for the thousands of airline workers who showed up every day and gave everything to keep Spirit Airlines in the air," the statement, sent to Parade, began.

"We call on Spirit’s leadership and the bankruptcy court to ensure that every worker receives the full severance, back pay, and benefits they are owed. Workers should not be the last in line when a company fails," the statement continued. "The IAM will be watching closely and will hold all responsible parties accountable."

Spirit Airlines was unable to recover from the pandemic, according to NBC News. Though the company filed for bankruptcy—twice in one year—"soaring jet fuel cost" put a major damper on its potential progress.

“With no additional funding available to the company, Spirit had no choice but to begin this wind-down," the company's statement read, in part.

Valerie Bertinelli recently appeared on The Drew Barrymore Show alongside her son, Wolfgang Van Halen and his wife, Andraia Allsop. During the segment, Bertinelli opened up about the concerns she had about her son becoming a musician after the way the industry impacted his father, Eddie Van Halen, who she was married to from 1981 until 2007.

Although Wolfgang has always shown a love for music, Bertinelli admitted, “I ignored it for as long as I possibly could because the business sucks. I was afraid for my son to go into a business that tried to destroy his father. And Ed was able to get through it, but it’s a really hard business.”

Related: Valerie Bertinelli Shares Throwback Photo With Wolfgang Van Halen, Who Looks Just Like His Dad

Bertinelli continued, “Even as a little baby before he could walk, you could see if you watch the ‘Distance’ video, you can see him just constantly plucking on strings and just fascinated by what Ed was doing on the guitar. It was always in him.”

“Distance” is a song that Wolfgang released with his band, Mammoth, as a tribute to his father, who died in 2020. The accompanying music video contains real family footage and audio from the star. With over 8 million views on YouTube, the comment section is filled with heartfelt compliments. One said, “Every child deserves a father like this.” Another said, “The voicemail killed me.”

During the interview with Drew Barrymore, Bertinelli also spoke about the origin of her son’s name, revealing that he was named after Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. “Now looking back, it's like how could I saddle some man with Wolfgang and Van Halen?” she said. “It's like, what if he doesn't become a musician? But the thing is, our house always had instruments, like there was guitars on every wall, there was a piano, there was a drum set.”

Bertinelli concluded with, “I like to say that Wolfie is the man he is in spite of me and Ed. We made a lot of mistakes, but in the end he always had unconditional love.”

Lindt Lindor Truffles just got a new Dessert variety pack and it's even sweeter than it seems because it includes a standout flavor that was once a Lindt store exclusive and another that is currently exclusive to the company's online and brick-and-mortar stores.

Loyal Lindt lovers will probably remember how excited fans were when its Tiramisu truffle launched as a Walmart exclusive this past Valentine's Day. Well, after a season off the market, it's back—just not as a standalone bag, but as part of this larger variety pack that includes two other classic treat-inspired flavors.

Lindt's new Lindor Dessert Assortment recently hit shelves, and shoppers aren't wasting any time sharing the news.

Lindt Lindor Truffles Get New Dessert Flavors Assortment

About a week ago, one eagle-eyed customer and junk food influencer spotted the yellow-gold bags filled with an assortment of Tiramisu Milk Chocolate Truffles, White Chocolate With Cheesecake Flavor Truffles (currently a Lindt store exclusive outside of this pack) and Double Chocolate Milk Chocolate Truffles (which are more widely available) at their local Walmart store and excitedly alerted others online.

Related: Lindt’s Exclusive Lindor Truffle Flavor Taps Into This Spring’s Hottest Trend

Lindt Lindor Dessert Assortment rolls out at Walmart this spring.

Lindt

While that particular fan didn't share whether they purchased and tried the variety, plenty of others reviewed the experience, rating the new variety pack 4.4 out of 5 stars online.

Many have said the flavors are "creamy," and most agreed the White Chocolate Cheesecake flavor is "sweeter" than most other truffles, making it a rather divisive addition. That said, the Double Chocolate and Tiramisu flavors have fans singing their praises. Like one who wrote, "These are SOOOOO good! Especially the tiramisù flavored ones. They're smooth and creamy, melting in your mouth," noting that "They are an absolutely delicious way to indulge."

"The bag holds a lot of chocolate. It’s rich and creamy and the inside adds to the flavor," a second wrote. "There wasn’t really an aftertaste. I think the double chocolate is my favorite."

"Delicious," one more added. "The double chocolate was like molten lava cake. The white chocolate was like a lemon cheesecake. And the tiramisu was spot on yummy coffee. Indulgent and creamy. Wish these flavors weren’t limited edition."

Where Is Lindt's Lindor Truffles Dessert Variety Pack Available?

Lindt's Lindor Dessert Truffles assortments have been spotted on shelves at Walmart stores and online via Walmart.com (prices may vary), where the variety pack will be available exclusively, Parade confirmed with a brand spokesperson.

Next: Lindt Is Discontinuing This Popular Line of Lindor Truffles

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If your houseplant collection is overdue for a style upgrade — or you just can't resist a piece of whimsical home décor — Walmart has an easy pick that’s almost too cute to pass up. Right now, the Mainstays Ceramic Mushroom Planter Set is marked down from $15 to just $10.

This bestselling planter set has a 4.7-star rating and features simple mushroom illustrations on speckled white ceramic finishes for a nature-inspired look. They’re compact enough to fit easily on windowsills, kitchen shelves, bathroom counters, or desks. If you only need one, there’s a single planter option available. 

Mainstays Ceramic Mushroom Planter Set, $10 (was $15) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Each planter measures about 6 inches in diameter and 5.5 inches tall, which makes it a practical size for small plants up to one quart. They work well with low-maintenance options like succulents, herbs, small ferns, or trailing varieties. The ceramic material is durable and weather-resistant, so they work just as well indoors as they do outside on a patio. 

Each pot features a drainage hole with a removable plug, so you can easily manage watering. At just under 2 pounds, they’re lightweight enough to move around easily as your plants grow or your setup changes. 

The planters have been consistently praised for balancing style and value. Many shoppers noted that the photos on Walmart’s site don’t quite do them justice, saying they look even better in person. Others described them as a standout find for the price, especially given the overall quality.

Related: Walmart’s 'Utterly Adorable' $5 Ceramic Lemon Planter Is a 'Cheerful' Spring Upgrade

One reviewer called them “too cute” and noted they’re the perfect size for a small plant. Another wrote: “These pots are adorable. I painted mine with acrylic paints and sealed it, and used it to hold baking utensils.” 

Shop More Deals

• Bamworld Indoor/Outdoor Plant Stand, $20 (was $33) at Walmart
• Mainstays Ceramic Lemon Planter, $5 (was $8) at Walmart
• My Texas House 8-Inch Wave Planter Ceramic Pot, $12 ($17) at Walmart

Whether you’re curating the plant shelf of your dreams or just want a small, cheerful upgrade for your space, the Mainstays Ceramic Mushroom Planter Set is a easy to add to your cart. Now on sale for just $10 for two, it’s an affordable way to bring a bit of charm to any corner. Be sure to grab yours before the sale ends. 

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.

Gwen Farrell was an actress and boxing referee who had a recurring role on the hit TV series, M*A*S*H. According to Forbes, the actress recently died of natural causes in Sherman Oaks on April 30. She was 93.

‘M*A*S*H’ actress Gwen Farrell dead at 93 https://t.co/MxqI8AewjY pic.twitter.com/Qe9NHLfGFX

— New York Post (@nypost) May 2, 2026

Her family announced the news on a GoFundMe page this week, hoping to raise money to cover the cost of her funeral and burial expenses. They stated, “Gwendolyn ‘Gwen’ Yancey Farrell was born in Austin, Texas, and lived a life full of strength, character, and quiet resilience. She was the daughter of Lovie Yancey, founder of Fatburger, and carried forward that same determination and independence throughout her life.”

Farrell appeared in 26 episodes of M*A*S*H from 1972 until 1983. She played multiple nurse roles, including Nurse Butler, Nurse Wilson, Nurse Able, and Nurse Gwen as well as a few additional uncredited nurse roles. Throughout her career, she also appeared in projects like Starsky and Hutch, Billy Jack Goes to Washington, Black Gunn, Soylent Green, Earthquake, and The Towering Inferno.

Related: ‘Doogie Howser, M.D.’ Star Dead at 73

In addition to her acting career, Farrell went on to become a referee in the boxing world. She was the first female to referee a world title fight during a match between Pedro Ortega and Luis “Yory Boy” Campas. In 2005, she was entered into the World Boxing Hall of Fame.

As her family stated, “In 1980, Gwen stepped into the boxing world as a referee in California, a space where women were rarely seen at the time. With confidence, fairness, and unwavering composure, she earned the respect of fighters, trainers, and fans alike. She didn’t just do the job; she broke barriers and proved that strength comes in many forms.”

They continued, “But beyond her accomplishments, Gwen was so much more to her family. She was a grandmother, a guiding light, and a steady source of love and wisdom. She had a way of making those around her feel supported, understood, and cared for without needing recognition.”

At this time, the GoFundMe in memory of Gwen Farrell Adair’s legacy has reached over $1,000 of its $13,000 goal.

Banksy has officially claimed a new, unsolicited sculpture in the heart of London, choosing a high-traffic island in Waterloo Place to make his latest statement. The work depicts a man striding purposefully off a plinth, his entire face and vision smothered by a billowing, heavy flag.

Positioned just off The Mall and situated between statues of historical giants like Florence Nightingale and Edward VII, the piece arrived with the artist’s signature and a characteristically dry explanation: “There was a bit of a gap.”

The Associated Press reports that the monument appeared in the early hours of Wednesday morning and while his signature was scrawled on the base, Banksy waited until Thursday to officially claim the work on social media.

Related: This Arkansas Hidden Gem Is the Most Exciting Art Destination in 2026

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The reaction was instantaneous, with the post racking up hundreds of thousands of likes within hours. While Banksy’s own caption was a characteristically brief nod to the "gap" in the architecture, his 14 million followers filled the comments with deep dives into the sculpture's meaning.

One of the most shared comments was a verbatim post of the poem "Flag" by John Agard, a biting critique of nationalism that many felt served as the unofficial soundtrack to the artwork. The poem describes a flag as "just a piece of cloth," before concluding with the chilling instruction to "blind your conscience to the end"—a direct mirror to the blindfolded figure now standing in Waterloo Place.

Related: This Is One of the Best Florida Escapes for Art Lovers—and It’s Not Miami

Other fans were quick to praise the artist’s ability to remain relevant and stealthy. One user noted the signature timing of the drop, stating, “I love that he appears when enough time has passed to forget, and arrives with full force unnoticed.” The political undertones of the work—situated so close to the halls of power in Westminster—were not lost on his audience. One follower described it as “A compelling statement on collective blindness—forward motion without vision, without preparation. Really powerful.”

Meanwhile, others took a more defiant stance on the inevitable controversy the piece will stir among traditionalists, with one popular comment simply declaring, “If the old white guy doesn’t like it, you can guarantee it’s good.”

Its placement near the Crimean War Memorial has led many onlookers to interpret the "Flag Man" as a biting commentary on blind nationalism and the political sleepwalking of the modern era.

This latest installation follows a series of high-profile, politically-charged works, including the controversial mural at the Royal Courts of Justice last September. While that piece—depicting a judge looming over a bloodied protester—was swiftly removed by security, the new Waterloo Place sculpture currently remains in its "gap," drawing massive crowds just steps away from the halls of power in Westminster.

Related: East London Just Got a Massive New Cultural Landmark—and It’s Completely Free

Powerless by Lauren Roberts currently sits among the most popular Teen and Young Adult books listened to on Spotify, and the third novel in the series, Fearless, isn’t that far behind it! Originally self-published, Roberts is now working with Simon & Schuster, which has led to a dramatized audiobook of her first novel.

Roberts chatted with Parade about the development of her novel into this immersive form, sharing, “It was amazing when they brought this to me about how I felt about a dramatized adaptation. I was immediately like, ‘yes, please!’”

This is more than just a few new actors being added in to help tell the story. The team behind the creation brought sound effects, music, and more, making the whole story a movie for the ears, and Roberts got to be part of the process.

“I feel so honored that I was very much part of the process. I got to read through the script, which is Powerless, the book, but they were adding sound effects and slight tweaks. The team that handled it did it with such care, and I was there every step of the way.”

The best thing for the listeners of the original audiobook, which is still very much worth listening to, is that the voices of leads Kai and Paedyn haven’t changed. Chase Brown and Cecily Bednar Schmidt were cast as the two leads for the mesmerizing new adaptation, and it’s certainly something that made Roberts happy: “When I was given options for the regular audiobook, as soon as I heard them, I knew it was them.”

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Roberts’ TikTok followers will also be able to hear a very familiar voice in the dramatized story — the author herself, “I was absolutely stoked when they asked me to voice Tealah; it was so insanely cool.”

It turns out that she had a lot of fun in the recording studio, and she’s certainly shared some of that on her social channels. She continues to connect with the audience that helped make her famous and gave her the opportunity to shine. In fact, we went into how TikTok changed the game for a lot of creators who wanted to be authors, whether indie or traditional.

“It’s definitely been such a wild ride,” Roberts gushed, as we went into her going from a regular TikTok creator talking about all things books to an author sharing her own world and wishes, “When I had my own book idea, they supported me, and they wanted it to become fruitful. So, I brought them along on the journey, which was really special. It’s such a beautiful community of people who were looking for the same thing. They all wanted to escape into these different worlds together.”

The first two years of TikTok were a different time compared to now. Social media has become a whole new beast again, and that’s not necessarily a bad thing. It’s allowed for more people to find their tribe and connect with like-minded people. It’s also opened up opportunities that people would never have had a chance at before.

However, there is a fine line between connection and entitlement. We’re seeing more and more people have to step back, especially when they’re creating a story. They sometimes have to shut out the voices, or they’ll create boundaries that help them to remain committed to the story that they want to tell.

Roberts is still interactive with her fans, but she does share that she has boundaries, “I really tried to stay in tune with what people were wanting, especially if it’s something that doesn’t alter the course of what I was already planning to do. I do want to put up boundaries of the story that I want to tell, and I don’t want to be swayed in that.”

Courtesy of Simon & Schuster

The elements that she does add in are certain scenes or tropes that people will scream about wanting to see represented in a story. However, there has been a time that she added a full fan theory into her story. It was so good not to include, and she wanted to show her fans that she was listening to them. Of course, it wasn’t right, but it was fun to include all the same.

“It was really fun with Fearless, but I saw so many fan theories that were insane. They were so good. There was one fan theory that was so good that I knew it wasn’t going to happen, but I ended up putting it into Fearless to make people think they had figured it out, when that wasn’t the answer at all. It was fun to have that direct connection to the readers and show them that I’d seen them talking and, while it wasn’t right, it was cool.”

When it comes to tropes, of course, the ones that people were screaming to her about were those in the romantasy genre. This is a combination of fantasy and romance, where the two genres have an equal footing in the story, and it’s one that has suddenly boomed within the market.

Now, you can’t turn anywhere without seeing it, whether it’s Sarah J. Maas with her ACOTAR series or Elisa Kova’s A Deal with the Elf King. What is it about this genre that has so many people reading and writing within it?

Roberts shared her thoughts, looking back at the time that the shift started happening.

“I remember the shift happening during the time of the pandemic,” she shared thoughtfully, “And I think it’s the beauty of equal parts fantasy and romance. Romantasy really blended these two things that readers have wanted to see in equal parts for a long time, and it’s really appealing to that escapism part of ourselves.”

People want equal parts fantasy and burning romance, bringing the tension both in the action and in the bedroom. These two characters are both surviving in the wild, figuring their lives out in the bedroom, and it becomes all-encompassing for the readers.

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It also continues to allow for the development of artwork, specifically maps. Anyone who knows me will know that I love putting the maps of my favorite universes on wooden blocks. I have Westeros and Essos from Game of Thrones, The Last Kingdom’s look of England of the past, and the map of Panem from The Hunger Games, so I had to ask if there was a way to get the Powerless world put on one.

“I do have a map!” Roberts was so happy to tell me, and it turns out that this map was something she initially created but found others to help transform it into something that could be put up on walls. The initial sketch she described as “horrific,” but she worked with a traditional artist who developed something impressive.

The same happened with the cover art, which she initially drew on her phone, “and then I sent it to the cover design artist, and we worked really closely together to make the Powerless cover what it is.”

Since then, the world of Powerless has grown considerably, and part of that is working with a traditional publishing house. This hasn’t just changed in terms of the number of eyes (and ears!) her work gets out to, but also the time that she now has available.

“I was so used to having to do everything on my own and being able to call the shots. Now I just get to spend my time writing.”

It’s not always easy to hand over control to someone else, but Roberts needed to so that she could write. It helped that she had a team willing to keep her involved.

“It’s amazing to work with a group of people who I can trust, and who trust me and my vision. That’s why doing this adaptation felt so seamless, because I knew there was just a lot of trust there.”

Now, all of this could lead to a TV series. There is something in development, but it’s so early days that there’s nothing to share. However, when I asked her preference between movie and TV, she definitely wants to see it adapted on the small screen, because “there’s just so much that you lose in a movie, and I want to be able to get into the nitty-gritty of the characters and scenes.”

For those who can’t wait for a TV show adaptation and need something that is like a movie, the dramatized version of Powerless is now available. 

I love the aesthetic of a floating bookshelf. It's a great way to showcase your favorite books and essentially turn them into wall art. However, floating bookshelves can be expensive and often require hardware to install.

So when I came across an Instagram video with an easy DIY idea for a floating bookshelf using a $6 item from IKEA and Command strips, I was immediately intrigued. Read on to see the hack and learn how you can try it at home.

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Related: DIYer Shares Cheap and Easy Hack for Upgrading Your Stair Risers (You Can Swap Them Every Season!)

How to Use Plate Holders From IKEA to Display Books on Your Wall

DIY artist Azeitona (@a2eitona) recently shared a video of a floating bookshelf hack on Instagram, an idea she credits to interior creator Medina Grillo (@grillodesigns).

This hack centers around a product from IKEA: the OSTBIT plate holder ($5.99). This bamboo dish holder features seven pairs of wooden dowels coming out of its base at 90 degree angles. Once you hang this product on your wall, each pair of dowels can be used as a shelf to hold one book.

According to Azeitona, here's what you'll needfor this DIY:

• OSTBIT plate holders from IKEA (however many you'd like)
• Command Picture Hanging Strips (ideally, ones that can hold a lot of weight)
• Books

And here's how to put together your floating bookshelf:

1. Apply Command strips all along the base of the plate holder.
2. Follow instructions from Command on how to attach these to your wall — you'll probably need to clean your wall before adhering the plate rack. Make sure the dowel "shelves" are completely horizontal.
3. Wait 24 hours for the strips to cure.
4. Place one book on each set of dowels.

Azeitona stacked two of these plate racks on her wall, but you can use as many as you'd like.

View this post on Instagram People Have Mixed Opinions on This Floating Bookshelf DIY

In the comments, plenty of people complimented the hack.

"so nice! I will definitely do this😍," someone commented on her video. "Omg I wanna do this as a CD holder," another commenter added. "Love it! Definitely trying this 🙌," someone else wrote.

Another group of commenters who tried this hack noted that while it looks great, it's best for "skinny hardback cover books" since the dowels could impact the shape of softcover books.

@grillodesigns

Sharing one of my all time favourite bedroom hacks (again) … turning a dish/plate rack into a bookshelf! But this time I’m making it a little bigger by adding 3 more IKEA OSBIT racks to accommodate some of my newest books. Definitely save this one to try if you haven’t already! What do you think? New book additions include; ‘The Hundred Years’ War on Palestine by Khalidi, Rashid Gaza: An Inquest into its Martyrdom Illustrated by Finkelstein Against the Loveless World: Susan Abulhawa Edge of Here by Kelechi Okafor #ikehack #ikeahacks #booktok #bedroomhacks #bookshelf #bookshelfdiy #ikea

♬ La foule - Remastered - Édith Piaf

All that being said, some others in the comments were concerned that this wouldn't hold up.

"Cute but you know thats gonna fall down one night at 2am 😭," someone commented. "I’ve always DREAMED of my hardbacks thumping the floor at 2AM 🥹🥹," another commenter joked.

"The strips might be rated for the weight, but the wall paint might not take it well, so in case you're thinking of doing this, it's worth it to add multiple strips. Or drill a hole, but you do you," someone else suggested.

About five weeks after Azeitona posted her video, someone asked her in the comments if it fell. She replied: "still up !"

That said, make sure to be careful when trying this hack at home, especially if you have kids or animals, and don't hang your books over anything breakable.

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