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The Real Reason Why ‘Outlander’ Is Not on Tonight
If it’s Friday night, it’s normally Outlander night on STARZ, especially since it’s the eighth and final season. But with only two episodes left to air — Episode 809: “Pharos” and Episode 810: “And the World Was All Around Us” – the series based on the bestselling novels by Diana Gabaldon is taking a week off. Fans will need to wait until May 8 to get their Jamie (Sam Heughan) and Claire Fraser (Caitríona Balfe) fix.
Here's the reason why Outlander isn't on tonight, and when you can watch it next.
While STARZ has not given an “official” reason, speculation is that it’s to build anticipation for the series’ final two episodes or to allow for strategic planning for those episodes in what is known as a "skip week."
It also allows viewers an opportunity to catch up if they’ve missed any of the previous eight episodes, so they're good to go for the ending.
When does Outlander return?Outlander will return with new episodes on Friday, May 8.
What can fans expect from Outlander when it returns?Jamie (Sam Heughan) and William (Charles Vandervaart) team up to rescue Lord John (David Berry), who has been kidnapped by Captain Richardson (Ben Lambert). It remains to be seen if the TV series ascribes ascribes the same motive to the kidnapping as in the book, but in Go Tell the Bees That I Am Gone, the reason is that Richardson is hoping that keeping John captive will influence his brother, Hal (Sam Hoare) to stop a speech in the House of Lords, as Richardson wants to manipulate the trajectory of the American Revolutionary War.
Then, Cleveland (Turlough Convery) shows up at Fraser’s Ridge because it’s time for the battle at Kings Mountain and Jamie will be off to war once again.
Who is in the cast for Outlander Season 8?Caitríona Balfe as Claire FraserSam Heughan as Jamie Fraser
Sophie Skelton as Brianna MacKenzie
Richard Rankin as Roger MacKenzie
John Bell as Young Ian Murray
David Berry as Lord John Grey
Charles Vandervaart as William Ransom
Izzy Meikle-Small as Rachel MurrayWhere to watch Outlander Season 8
New episodes of Outlander Season 8 will be available on Fridays at midnight ET on the STARZ app, streaming and on-demand; and at 8 p.m. ET/PT/7 Central on the linear network.
Next, Sam Heughan Reflects on How 'Outlander' Has Changed Everything (Exclusive)
Country Music Icon Blake Shelton Turns Heads with Surprise Visit to Indiana Fever
A surprise visit from country music star Blake Shelton sent excitement through the Indiana Fever this week, as players reacted with smiles, laughter and even a little starstruck disbelief during practice.
The Fever shared the moment on Instagram, showing Shelton walking into the gym and greeting players mid-session. Guard Sophie Cunningham had the most memorable reaction, rushing toward Shelton with visible excitement as her teammates looked on.
“I just lost all focus,” Cunningham said in the video, capturing the lighthearted mood of the visit.
The team later posted the clip with the caption: “He’s a Fever girl!” ❤️🔥 Blake Shelton stopped by practice today after announcing that Ole Red is coming to downtown Indianapolis in late 2027.
Shelton’s appearance came shortly after he confirmed that his Ole Red bar and live music venue will open in downtown Indianapolis in 2027. The announcement has already created buzz in the city, and his visit to the Fever added even more excitement around the team.
Blake Shelton performs onstage during the 28th Family Film and TV Awards at Associated Television Int'l Studios.Photo by Phillip Faraone/Getty Images for Family Film and TV Awards
During practice, Shelton took time to greet players and pose for photos with Cunningham, star guard Caitlin Clark, Lexie Hull and head coach Stephanie White. The Fever also gifted him a custom team jersey with the number 7 on the back.
View this post on Instagram“I got my fit. That’s right,” Shelton said while holding the jersey.
Cunningham, clearly thrilled, added, “He’s a Fever girl!”
The interaction quickly became a viral moment among fans, who flooded social media with reactions.
One fan wrote, “So jealous! He is such an awesome person!”
Another added, “Blake is ahhhhmazzzingggg!!!!!!😍”
Others chimed in with messages like “That’s awesome! Blake is the best!! ❤️❤️” and “Oh wow! Love this!”
One comment perfectly summed up Cunningham’s reaction: “Sophie almost about to pass out!!! Then ‘bye Blake’ then hook shot over her head w the bb so cute!”
Another fan declared, “🙌🔥❤️ He's a fever now.”
While the entire team enjoyed the visit, Cunningham stood out as the most excited. The 29-year-old guard, who has openly shared her love for country music, couldn’t hide her admiration.
She later doubled down on her reaction in the comments, writing: “I don’t fan girl over anyone BUT Blake Shelton 🔥 hands down the best.”
Her enthusiasm comes as she prepares for a fresh WNBA season after re-signing with the Fever on a one-year deal. Despite dealing with a knee injury last season, Cunningham remains focused on helping the team compete at a high level.
The Fever, known for drawing large crowds and a growing fanbase, has become a hotspot for celebrity visits. With more than 17,000 fans regularly filling Gainbridge Fieldhouse, the team continues to gain attention beyond basketball.
As Shelton left the court, Cunningham was still smiling, even tossing a playful basketball shot behind her as she walked away, one last sign of how much the moment meant.
Related: Blake Shelton Felt Destined to Record His Unforgettable 2011 No. 1 Country Love Classic
Walmart’s Dainty $9 Baguette Birthstone Ring Is a Thoughtful Mother’s Day Gift
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Few accessories feel as thoughtful as birthstone jewelry. It’s not just something pretty you put on and forget about. It usually represents a meaningful month tied to the wearer, whether that’s their own birthday, their child’s, their partner’s, or someone they want to keep close every day. That built-in symbolism is what makes it stand out, especially for Mother’s Day. It’s simple, personal, and carries significance that doesn’t fade with time or trends.
For a present that’s easy to pick up at Walmart but still feels intentional, the Virella Jewels Baguette Birthstone Ring is worth a look. Right now, it’s priced at just $9 (originally $10), which makes it an even easier choice — whether you’re shopping for a mom, a grandmother, or even yourself.
Virella Jewels Baguette Birthstone Ring, From $9 (was $10) at Walmart Shop at WalmartThe ring itself leans into that delicate, barely-there look, built around a slim, dainty band. At the center sits an east-west set baguette cubic zirconia, framed in a smooth bezel setting that gives it a clean, modern finish while keeping the stone secure. The horizontal placement adds a subtle twist to a classic silhouette, drawing inspiration from recent jewelry trends — think Zendaya’s engagement ring. Depending on the month you choose, the stone is colored to echo that of a genuine birthstone, catching the light with a soft, glassy glow that mimics the richness of the real gem.
Beyond the meaning behind it, the craftsmanship of the ring makes it feel more elevated than its price suggests. It’s made from brass with 14-karat gold plating, giving it either a warm, golden finish or a cooler silver-toned look, depending on your preference. It’s also nickel-free and lead-free, which makes it a more comfortable option for those with sensitive skin. Available in sizes 5 through 10, it’s easy to find the right fit.
Related: This Dazzling Diamond Pendant Necklace Looks So Luxe, and It’s on Sale for 40% Off
When it comes to gifting, the minimalistic nature of this design makes it a perfect choice. It doesn’t compete with someone’s personal style, which means it can blend in easily with whatever they already wear, from everyday staples to statement pieces. That versatility takes the guesswork out of picking jewelry for someone else. They can wear it on its own for a polished look or stack it with their other favorites to make it feel more curated.
Shop More Deals- Lunvky Three-Stone Birthstone Ring, from $12 (was $80) at Walmart
- Jeenmata Emerald Cut Eternity Birthstone Ring, $19 (was $90) at Walmart
- Jeenmata Pave Accented Birthstone Ring, $18 (was $90) at Walmart
Whether you’re celebrating mom, a grandmother, or someone who’s always been like a mom to you, the $9 Virella Jewels Baguette Birthstone Ring is a fabulous option. Pick one up now at Walmart before May 10 sneaks up on you!
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.
85-Year-Old Music Icon's First-Ever 'Fit Check' Took 12 Takes: 'I Don't Have a Team'
Dionne Warwick is fully embracing the world of social media culture after jumping on the bandwagon with her first-ever “fit check.”
The legendary singer, who often shares a glimpse of her life beyond the spotlight, drew attention by keeping it real and unfiltered, offering a refreshingly candid take on the trend.
The 85-year-old music icon recently attended the 2026 Billboard Women in Music Awards to present the Visionary Award to actress and R&B singer Teyana Taylor.
At the red carpet, the award-winning artist stole the spotlight in an all-white ensemble, looking effortlessly chic and timeless as ever.
Warwick’s outfit featured a satin-finished oversized blazer with rhinestone details on the sleeves and she paired it with her white striped wide-leg pants, giving the look a girl boss vibe.
In addition, she layered a black lace top under her suit to add contrast and depth to the look.
Dionne Warwick at the Billboard Women in Music 2026Gilbert Flores/Billboard via Getty Images
Lastly, she elevated her outfit with subtle sparkles through simple yet elegant diamond-studded earrings and a matching necklace.
The "Walk on By" hitmaker took to social media to share details behind her look.
According to her, since many of the comments were asking her about the details of her look, she decided to make a video about it.
In her post, Warwick proudly revealed that she personally styled her red carpet outfit.
“Let me just say this, I’m wearing what I want to wear. How about that? I think I look pretty nice and personally, of course, everybody wants to know who is your team. I don’t have a team,” she revealed, before adding, “I am my team. The young lady did my makeup on solid gold and she taught me everything there was to know about my face and how to prepare for anything I had to do. So you are looking at my styling team. Totally me.”
View this post on Instagram“My first fit check. I will do more if you like the fit,” she captioned her post, adding that Brittani Warrick, the singer's niece who has worked with her for over a decade, had her complete 12 takes to get the video just right.
Following her post, the comment section quickly lit up with interesting reactions from fans who were drawn to the "I Say a Little Prayer" singer’s fit check debut.
“She said what she said!!! She looks amazing!!” one wrote.
“Queen Dionne telling it like it is once again! We love you so much, Dionne!! I listen to you almost every week,” a commenter added.
The same goes for another user who said, “Serving looks.”
Even Emmy Award–winning fashion stylist and costume designer Brenda Cooper was impressed by the music legend’s look, noting, “As an award-winning stylist, I would honestly say your style team is 100% fabulous. On point, great personal style, great silhouettes, self-contained and simply fabulous!!”
As mentioned, Warwick’s recent public appearance was during the 2026 Billboard Women in Music Awards.
Before calling Taylor on stage, she praised the 35-year-old singer whom she called her "alter ego.”
Related: ’60s Legend Reacts to Teyana Taylor’s Awkward Onstage Moment
2001 Hit Film Ranked the 'Best Fantasy Movie' of All Time
Throughout the history of cinema, audiences have flocked to fantasy films to be dazzled, enthralled, and take a break from mundanity. TimeOut highlighted the most beloved films from the genre by releasing a list of the "top 50 best fantasy movies of all time."
The list, which was updated in April 2026, featured hits like The NeverEndingStory from 1984, 1987's The Princess Bride, 1986's Labyrinth, Pan's Labyrinthfrom 2006, The Wizard of Oz from 1939, and Dark Crystal, released in 1982. The top five ranking included La Belle et la Bête from 1946, 2001's Spirited Away, Ugetsu Monogatari from 1953, and 1933's King Kong.
The first movie from Peter Jackson's Lord of the Rings franchise, The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001), secured the list's top spot.
The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring has a score of 91 percent on Rotten Tomatoes and 92 on Metacritic.
Elijah Wood Opened up About Auditioning for Frodo BagginsElijah Woodfamously starred as the courageous Hobbit Frodo Baggins in the film franchise, adapted from J.R.R. Tolkien's beloved book series. In a 2025 interview on the Inside of You podcast, Wood, who started out as a child actor, said he wanted to be a part of the Lord of the Rings cast because he's a major fan of Jackson's 1994 film, Heavenly Creatures.
Wood said that he decided to film a self-tape audition, wherein he wore a Hobbit-like costume. In addition, the actor said that he hired a dialect coach to perfect Frodo's British accent. Wood said after he sent in the tape to Jackson's offices in London, he got an in-person callback.
In an interview regarding The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, Jackson discussed Wood's self-tape audition. He explained that he had originally envisioned the iconic Hobbit being played by an English actor. However, those who auditioned to play Frodo didn't have the magical quality needed for the role.
Eventually, Jackson was presented with Wood's audition tape, which was on a VHS. The director said he knew Wood had previously starred in films, but had never seen any of his work. Jackson said once he watched the American actor's tape, he thought he was wonderful and a perfect Frodo.
Amy Grant Shares Husband Vince Gill's Inspiring Advice After Her Traumatic Brain Injury
Ahead of the release of her new album The Me That Remains, singer-songwriter Amy Grant, 65, is opening up about experiences with several back-to-back health issues including a traumatic brain injury, as well as her ongoing recovery to a new normal. In a new interview, she shares the advice her husband, country music singer-songwriter Vince Gill, 69, gave her on one of the darker days.
On NPR's Wild Card with Rachel Martin this week, Grant talks about the last six years in which she endured with several health issues. In 2020, of course, the pandemic affected everyone, but also that year, Grant's doctor discovered she had an undetected birth defect and needed open-heart surgery. She underwent the surgery in early 2021, and says she felt so much better.
But then in 2022, Grant suffered a bike accident, in which she lost consciousness for 10 minutes. The injury led to some memory loss and processing issues, as well as depression during her recovery. "I felt the limitations of my processing," she recalls.
She also had to undergo two subsequent surgeries as a result of that bike injury.
Grant spent months in quiet downtime, just writing a lot in order to try to recoup processing and improve her recall. "I had to be very patient with my body," she tells Rachel Martin. "Very patient with recovery."
Related: Vince Gill, 68, and Amy Grant, 65, Are Still Going Strong After 26 Years of Marriage
But something her husband Vince said helped put her situation into perspective. "In the fall of 2022, when my world was very quiet, I just remember saying to Vince, 'What if this is all I get back? What if this is it?'"
"[Vince] just said, ‘Amy, life happens to every one of us every day. A virtuoso musician could have a stroke and never be able to pick up their instrument again. All you do is you just take the hand you're dealt that day and live the life that you get'."
Two years and lots of patience and recovery time later, Grant says she was back to writing songs. The first song she wrote was the title track "The Me That Remains" for her forthcoming album.
And as if all that wasn't enough, in January 2023, Grant then had to get a cyst from her throat removed that required her to relearn singing.
Grant talks honestly about how hard all of this has been but says now, though, "Those things all went together to make me so glad to be alive."
Watch and listen to the full interview with Amy Grant on Wild Card with Rachel Martin:
On May 8, 2026, Amy Grant releases her first album of new original songs in 13 years, titled The Me That Remains. Pre-orders are currently available on her official store: shop.amygrant.com
1 Major Faux Pas Happened During King Charles and Queen Camilla's Visit to Arlington Cemetery
King Charles spent a whirlwind four days in the United States before heading off to Bermuda for his first visit to a U.K. overseas territory since becoming monarch in 2022. He and Queen Camilla’s schedules were packed with events, and during their visit to Arlington Cemetery, one major faux pas happened.
Charles, 77, and Camilla, 78, bid farewell to President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump on April 30 and headed to Arlington, Virginia, to visit one of the most significant sites of military remembrance. The monarch and queen consort laid a wreath and a posy at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. While they honored fallen members of the military with the act, it was also a gesture of unity between the US and the U.K.
However, the Union Jack flag paraded behind Charles and Camilla during the solemn event was flown upside down.
ARLINGTON, VIRGINIA - APRIL 30: King Charles III and Queen Camilla, escorted by US Army Maj. Gen. Antoinette Gant and White House Chief of Protocol Monica Crowley, arrive to the Memorial Amphitheater while visiting the Arlington National Cemetery on April 30, 2026, in Arlington, Virginia. King Charles III and Queen Camilla visited the nation's capital, New York City, and Virginia during the trip arranged to celebrate the United States of America's 250th anniversary of its independence. (Photo by Saul Loeb - Pool/Getty Images)Saul Loeb - Pool/Getty Images
“In the half of the flag nearest the flagpole, the wider diagonal white stripe must be above the red diagonal stripe, as Scotland's St. Andrew's Cross takes precedence over Ireland's St. Patrick's Cross,” Britain's Flag Institute wrote, explaining the proper way to fly the Union Jack.
The institute noted it’s “most improper to fly the flag upside down.”
The Arlington Cemetery incident wasn’t the only flag snafu to happen while Charles and Camilla were stateside. A few days before the royal couple arrived in Washington, D.C., ABC News reporter James Longman said Australian flags were briefly flown alongside American flags on the light posts along a busy road in the nation’s capital.
"For about two hours, they put the Australian flag up alongside the Stars and Stripes … I think they realized their mistake, and they've replaced them now with the Union Jack," Longman said in a video shared to Instagram on April 24.
An official confirmed to The Washington Examiner that the mistake was “quickly” fixed along 17th Street NW near the Eisenhower Executive Building.
While there were some oversights on the details, Charles and Camilla’s visit overall went smoothly. They attended a number of events in D.C., Virginia, and New York City. Charles also made a historic speech in front of Congress, making him only the second British sovereign in history to do so, after his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, in 1991.
Charles spoke about the “indispensable partnership” between the United Kingdom and America during his April 28 address.
“The challenges we face are too great for any one nation to bear alone. But in this unpredictable environment, our alliance cannot rest on past achievements, or assume that foundational principles simply endure,” the monarch said, per AP. “We must not disregard everything that has sustained us for the last eighty years. Instead, we must build on it.”
Charles pointed to the “common ideals” of the countries, which have been on opposing sides of several issues as of late, including the Russian-Ukrainian war and the Iranian conflict.
“The rule of law: the certainty of stable and accessible rules, an independent judiciary resolving disputes and delivering impartial justice. These features created the conditions for centuries of unmatched economic growth in our two countries,” Charles continued. “This is why our governments are concluding new economic and technology agreements – to write the next chapter of our joint prosperity and ensure that British and American ingenuity continues to lead the world.”
1974 Soft Rock Classic, That Beat a Rival Version to No. 1, Ranked Among ‘Greatest Songs of All Time’
In 1974, a dramatic, story-driven song climbed the charts and beat out a competing version of the same track to become a defining hit of the era.
"The Night Chicago Died," performed by Paper Lace, rose to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, eventually earning recognition among the greatest songs of all time by Rolling Stone.
Written by Peter Callander and Mitch Murray, the track tells a vivid tale of a violent clash between police and gangsters in Chicago, delivered through the perspective of a worried son awaiting news about his father. Its cinematic lyrics and emotional tension helped it stand out from other soft rock hits of the time.
"I remember us being on Top Of The Pops and Elton John shaking my hand backstage and congratulating us on a US No.1, which he hadn’t achieved at the time!" lead singer, Philip Wright, told LeftLion in 2025.
"The really strange thing was we couldn't even perform the song in America, due to some contractual hassles. And the label told us that they could make it a hit without us having to be there. We did a few radio stations, but that’s all."
Unbeknownst to many listeners, Paper Lace's version of "The Night Chicago Died" wasn't the only one released. Another group, Bo Donaldson and the Heywoods, also recorded the song around the same time. But it was Paper Lace's version that captured the public's attention, ultimately outpacing its rival and claiming the top spot on the charts.
The song's success was driven by its unique blend of storytelling and melody, combining a somber narrative with a surprisingly accessible, radio-friendly sound. That contrast made it both memorable and widely appealing, helping it dominate airwaves during its release.
Over time, the track has remained a staple of '70s playlists, often remembered for its gripping narrative and distinctive style. While its historical accuracy has been debated, its impact on pop culture is undeniable.
More than five decades later, "The Night Chicago Died" endures as a timeless classic, one that not only topped the charts, but proved that a powerful story can turn a song into something unforgettable.
Related: '70s Rock Band Released First No. 1 Hit Song 19 Years After Forming
Danielle Savre Breaks Down Maya’s Near-Death Return to the ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ Universe (Exclusive)
It was another very rough day at the office for Maya Bishop (Danielle Savre), one of the firefighters from the former ABC drama Station 19. She found herself being wheeled into Grey Sloane Memorial Hospital on Grey's Anatomy after falling through the roof of a burning building to save her probie.
Fans haven't seen or heard from Maya since Station 19 was canceled two seasons ago, but Savre returned to the Grey's Anatomy universe for this special episode. The storyline reunited Maya with Ben Warren (Jason George), who temporarily left his medical career to be a firefighter for seven seasons on Station 19. Now Ben is back to being a doctor, and his former captain came in as his patient.
Parade caught up with Savre to talk about Maya's injuries and what she's been up to since Station 19 went off the air. The actress was also able to tease what fans can expect from the Grey's Anatomy Season 22 finale on May 7, which centers on a bridge collapse, and is her real-life boyfriendKevin McKidd's final episode (for now) of the show.
How did your return to the Grey’s universe come about?
It was out of the damn blue! I did not expect it. I didn’t know it was coming. Now that I know her backstory, I get what was going on internally. Since Carina hasn’t been on the show, there was no reason for Maya to come in. They’re not going to have me just drop off a patient in the ambulance. Even though last season, when the explosion happened, I was shadowing Debbie Allen and on set with Meg Marinis [Grey’s showrunner]. I asked her, “Meg, how are you not having Station 19? Even if it’s not me, just any Station 19 firefighter attending to people at this explosion.” The excuse is always that, “you guys are too expensive. You guys are just too expensive.”
So it’s always been kind of a running joke. I did not think it was going to happen, especially for something as simple as dropping off a patient. I heard through the grapevine that I might be in the next episode. All of a sudden I got the call asking for my availability. It was kind of like shock and disbelief. Then I got really excited and happy that I was going to get to be Maya again. I still had no context for what it was going to be. I was trying to get some information like, is it me and Carina?…I had no context at all, and then I finally got the script. As an actor, it’s really awesome to play, but man, with Maya, it never ends.
What did it feel like playing her as a patient again? Historically, she does not do well in a hospital setting.
I still think she’s technically not good at being a patient. She is still so stubborn in this episode and doesn’t want Ben to call Carina. She’s still trying to be tough and the whole thing. It was much better to be a patient in this regard than being in a 5150 psychiatric hold and having a total mental breakdown…This had more heroic elements to it. She cares about her probie. She was there to save a life. It’s Maya really getting to be a hero, even if we didn’t get to see her be a hero. We’re getting to see the aftermath of what happens when you are done being a hero. I know firefighters hate to be called heroes, so I want to tiptoe around that, but I am not a firefighter, and I 100 percent think they’re heroes. So we get to see her be a hero in that moment.
You’re also unconscious for a good chunk of the episode. What was it like to have to lie on the table for that long?
[Director] Linda Klein was worried. I’m very close friends with her — she’s probably going to be pissed I’m speaking for her — but she was a little like, “What? This is the storyline? Why isn’t Maya being a badass?” She’s the medical advisor, so she understands it. She didn’t want me to be on the table the whole time, and I was like, “Linda, this is such a good story to tell. I am so passionate about telling stories about real firefighters and what they go through. I’m going to lie on the table. I don’t care.”
And honestly? I had a blast. They took care of me so well. For the scene at the end, I’m supposed to be groggy, and I kind of kept falling asleep in the scene. In the OR scene, I’m lying spread out with the rest of the cast, and we were cracking jokes in between takes. Trevor Jackson is so funny, as is Jason George. I’ve got Trevor on one side and Jason George on the other. In between takes, I didn’t have to be emotional because I was just out. I could crack jokes and not feel like I was getting out of character. I kind of loved it.
The prosthetics were hard. It was two to three hours in the morning and another hour and a half at the end of the day. The prosthetic team is freaking amazing. They were phenomenal, but the amount that it took in the morning, after a while, I was like, “Okay, I’m done with this. I’m done with having rubbing alcohol rubbed all over my body.” I was very disinfected, that’s for sure.
Related: The 10 Most Heartbreaking ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ Deaths, Ranked
What did you learn about Maya during this stint about where she is compared to where Station 19 left off?
We’ve jumped forward a little bit. Maya says, “My probie,” so that means she’s a captain. Time has passed, and I feel like she’s in a healed place. I mean, we left her in a very healed place, but she wasn’t trying to go after the captain position. So if she’s captain now, it happened organically. It happened because she put in the time, and she proved herself. She didn’t have to blackmail anyone or do anything crazy. She’s in a really good place with her wife. Look at her! She was about to go on vacation to go to Italy…She’s finally able to take time off work. She’s in a great place. She’s in a stable place, obviously, besides the fact that she almost died, but mentally, she’s great.
We don’t get to see the phone call with Carina, but how do you imagine that went down?
We’ve had this relationship and dynamic with them for so many years. Carina is angry at her, but it’s also through tears. “How dare you not call me? But I love you. Are you okay? I hate you for doing that. Don’t ever put me through that again.” I can see Carina being very upset but also understanding why Maya did it, at least in this situation. What was Carina going to do from another country? I think that’s a very selfless thing to do. Obviously, if Maya had died, it would have been a very different situation because she could have said her last words to her wife. But there is a stubbornness. Maya believed that Ben would save her. She’s like, “Look, I’m not dying. You can’t kill me.” She always knew she was going to be able to talk to her wife again. But Carina would be upset.
Did you have any feelings that a specific trauma surgeon didn’t tend to Maya in this episode?
Are you talking about Kevin? I actually was very happy the the wasn’t, to be honest. I had a conversation with him about this the other day. Don’t get me wrong, you’ll see the videos that come on Instagram. He was visiting me every day because he was so excited that I was there. I’m happy because I think it would have been distracting to work with Kevin. But I was so grateful that we got to work together on the same set. He was overlapping with his finale that he was also directing. It’s his final episode. There was this moment where it overlapped by a couple of days. I was over on one unit getting saved, and he was on his unit, shooting his last episode. It was kind of a cool time to be there and be part of it all.
Related: 'Grey’s Anatomy' Teases Yet Another Major Character Exit
Can you tease anything about that final episode?
I went the last two days because it was part of the whole bridge collapse that ends this episode. It’s just so cool. It felt like it was shooting a movie. It’s really exciting. But yeah, I am glad he didn’t help save me. It would have been harder to get into character and be emotional, and get to those places, if he was there in those scenes.
If there was a reason to bring Maya back, not for medical care, what would be your dream to see Maya on Grey’s again?
It’s hard because the freakin’ explosion would have been a perfect opportunity to come in and save everyone. The idea of having them have another explosion would seem kind of far-fetched at this point. I would love to come back. We could do a pre-op with Jason, or if there’s a big accident that happens somewhere with mass casualties, and Station 19 is having to come in and rescue people. I miss holding an axe, a rotary saw, and a chainsaw. I miss the sparks. I miss the tools! Give me a high-pressure hose! So yeah, if I could come back and wouldn’t have to wear prosthetics because I would be in my turnouts. It would be really cool if something like that happens. How many times can you have something huge like that happen?
It’s Grey’s Anatomy. They do it quite frequently.
Okay, bring Maya back, and she can save some doctors, right?
Have the doctors walk her through an emergency surgery because they can’t operate on themselves.
That would be fun! You’re putting ideas in my head. I am going to be bugging Meg. She’ll be like, “Danielle, just because we brought you back for one episode doesn’t give you free rein.”
Grey’s Anatomy will continue with the Season 22 finale on Thursday, May 7 at 10 p.m. ET on ABC. Episodes are available to stream the next day on Hulu.
Related: The Cast of 'Grey's Anatomy' Season 1: Where Are They Now?
Amazon Has a 'Very Pretty' $23 Ceramic Vase Set That Will Add Instant Farmhouse Vibes to Your Space
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Bringing personal touches to your living space doesn't have to cost you a fortune. In fact, your favorite retailers like Amazon, Target, and Walmart have amazing deals on a slew of home decor items that feature rustic, modern, and farmhouse styles. One of our favorite new offerings comes from Amazon, as the Victor & Teresa Blue and White Ceramic Vases are 32% off right now.
The vases initially cost $34, but have been marked down to $23 in the blue and white colorway. You can add them to your cart in black for just $18, and green or white for up to 13% off. The vases are marked as Amazon's Choice and over 200 customers have already purchased them in the past month, so we recommend shopping for them before they're gone.
Victor & Teresa Blue and White Ceramic Vases, From $18 (was $34) at Amazon Shop at AmazonThe set comes with two sizes, with one being 7.9 inches tall, 3.1 inches long, and 3.1 inches wide, and the other being 6.1 inches tall, 3 inches long, and 3 inches wide. The vases are made of porcelain with a distressed finish so that they look vintage. They're decorated with a blue paisley design over a white hue, making them an effortless addition to Spanish-style homes. The solid colors will look good in modern homes as well.
The rounded vases have anti-slip pads on the bottom for the vase to ensure stability. They have a waterproof coating that prevents leakage, so you can place fresh flowers in them. You can also place fake flowers in them to keep them as a centerpiece all year long. Shoppers described the style to be "very pretty," "well-made," and "beautiful," adding that the color is "so welcoming."
Related: Adidas’ 'Lightweight' and 'Comfortable' Slides Are on Sale for $25 at Amazon
Other shoppers utilized the vases to provide countryside farmhouse vibes for their tablescape, so you can also add them to your cart for dinner parties and celebrations. "I really feel that they enhance a rustic decor vibe with their authentic, worn-in feel," one shopper said. Others also loved that they were packaged with care, so there was no damage upon arrival.
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- Bloomhaven 7-Piece Queen Comforter Set, $50 (was $65) at Amazon
- Fab Totes Storage Bags, $17 (was $24) at Amazon
Upgrade your space without breaking the bank, thanks to Amazon's 32% off deal. This set of "must-have" ceramic vases are the perfect addition to your home!
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NYT Mini Crossword Answers, Hints for Friday, May 1, 2026
If you're anything like me, the day is not complete until I finish all of the free word games from the New York Times. Working on the daily Connections, Connections Sports Edition, Wordle, and Strands is a whole ritual for many of us. And we can't forget about the NYT's The Mini Crossword, too!
Although the NYT is known for "The Crossword," a larger puzzle for paid subscribers, The Mini has quite the fan following as well. This particular game resets at 10 p.m., unlike some of the others that start over at midnight.
So, if you're working on today's Mini on for Today's Mini Crossword on Friday, May 1, and need some help (I've been there), get ready to read the clues and solutions for each line. We have them separated into hints first for both "Across" and "Down" words, followed by "Across Answers" and "Down Answers," so be careful if you want to avoid spoilers as you scroll!
Hints for NYT’s The Mini Crossword on Friday, May 1, 2026Here are additional clues for each of the words in today's Mini Crossword.
NYT Mini Across Hints1 Across: Zip-a-___-Doo-Dah — HINT: Starts with the letter "D"
4 Across: Cap and gown wearer, informally —HINT: Ends with the letter "D"
5 Across: Major purchase that might come with a down payment — HINT: Starts with the letter "H"
6 Across: Doc who really delivers? — HINT: Starts with the letter "O"
7 Across: Home of the Leaning Tower — HINT: Ends with the letter "A"
Related: 16 Games Like Wordle To Give You Your Word Game Fix More Than Once Every 24 Hours
NYT Mini Down Hints1 Down: Prescription products — HINT: Ends with the letter "S"
2 Down: Course that you could sleep through and still pass — HINT: Starts with the letter "E"
3 Down: Where Adam and Eve were eatin' the apple, fittingly? — HINT: Starts with the letter "E"
4 Down: Asia's largest desert — HINT: Ends with the letter "I"
5 Down: Bunny's bounce — HINT: Starts with the letter "H"
Answers to NYT’s The Mini Crossword for Friday, May 1, 2026Don't go any further unless you want to know exactly what the correct words are in today's Mini Crossword.
NYT Mini Across Answers1 Across: Zip-a-___-Doo-Dah — DEE
4 Across: Cap and gown wearer, informally — GRAD
5 Across: Major purchase that might come with a down payment — HOUSE
6 Across: Doc who really delivers? — OBGYN
7 Across: Home of the Leaning Tower — PISA
1 Down: Prescription products — DRUGS
2 Down: Course that you could sleep through and still pass — EASYA
3 Down: Where Adam and Eve were eatin' the apple, fittingly? — EDEN
4 Down: Asia's largest desert —GOBI
5 Down: Bunny's bounce —HOP
Related: NYT Mini Crossword Answers, Hints for Thursday, April 30, 2026
Walmart Has a 'Comfortable' $15 Matching Set That's Perfect for Travel, Lounging, and Errands
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If you’ve been looking for an easy summer outfit that can handle more than one part of your day, Walmart has its bestselling Rosvigor 2-Piece Workout Set on sale for just $15 right now, down from $32. It comes in five colors: apricot, black, blue, navy, and wine red, and is available in sizes small through 2XL. The set includes an oversized sleeveless tank top and matching high-waist biker shorts.
The fabric is a ribbed knit blend of 80% cotton, 16% polyester, and 4% spandex, so it has the softness of cotton with a little built-in stretch. The tank features a crew neckline, side slits, and a looser fit, while the shorts have a wide elastic waistband and a pocket for small essentials like a phone, a card, or keys. It’s designed to feel breathable and lightweight on warmer days, making it perfect for staying cool in the summer.
Rosvigor 2-Piece Workout Set, $15 (was $32) at Walmart Shop at WalmartThe versatile biker shorts and tank combo can work for walks, yoga, errands, or a casual day outside, but it’s also great as a lounge set or an airport outfit. Since the pieces already match, you don’t have to worry about rummaging through your closet to find something to pair them with. Just throw the set on with sneakers or slides, and you’ll instantly look put-together enough to leave the house.
One reviewer who bought the wine red set said that the “fit is fantastic” and it’s “so comfortable,” which makes sense considering its stretchy ribbed fabric and relaxed style. The built-in pocket is another super practical detail, especially if you plan to wear it for walks, errands, or travel and don’t want to carry much.
It’s also super easy to style. You could wear one of the darker colors with white sneakers, a baseball cap, and a hoodie. Or, if you opt for a lighter hue, you could slip on beige slide sandals and pair the set with a denim jacket. You could even split up the set and wear the tank with linen pants or the biker shorts with an oversized tee.
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- Fantaslook 2-Piece Long Sleeve Lounge Set, From $23 (was $45) at Walmart
If your summer wardrobe could use a versatile, lightweight, and comfy refresh, this matching set could be the perfect solution. Be sure to grab the Rosvigor 2-Piece Workout Set while it's still on sale for just $15 — but act quickly, flash sales don’t last long.
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Dollar General's Vibrant Boho Rug Is Charming, Durable and So Affordable
It's way too easy to look at a little throw rug and think, "Cute, but what exactly is that tiny thing supposed to do?" Turns out, quite a lot. A small rug can be like the finishing touch your room didn't know it was missing—adding a pop of color, a fun pattern or just enough personality to make a space feel complete. It can wake up a boring corner, make an entryway feel special, or even turn that random spot by the sink into something stylish.
Throw rugs are also sneaky little multitaskers. They can cozy up cold floors and protect high-traffic areas without you having to move a single piece of furniture. Basically, never underestimate the power of a small rug—it may be tiny, but it's working overtime in the style department.
True Living Woven Rug, $6 at Dollar General True Living Woven RugDollar General
Dollar General's True Living Woven Rug is $6 and comes in either the cheerful floral colorway shown above and a green gingham. This 18-by-30-inch throw rug may be small, but it knows how to make an impact. With its sturdy woven design, it's built to handle everyday life while still feeling cozy underfoot. And those fringed edges? They add that breezy boho vibe that makes any space feel a little styled. It's perfect for entryways, kitchens, bathrooms or anywhere that could use a quick boost.
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Picking the right throw rug is kind of like choosing the perfect accessory for an outfit—it can either tie everything together beautifully or feel a little random. One of the easiest ways to make a rug work in your space is to look for colors that already exist in the room, whether that's pulling from your throw pillows, artwork, curtains or even a favorite chair. It doesn't have to match perfectly, but picking up on a few familiar tones can make everything feel more cohesive.
If your space already has a lot going on, a rug in natural tones or subtle textures can be a great way to add warmth without overwhelming the room. Think jute, soft neutrals or muted patterns for something that looks truly effortless.
On the flip side, if your room feels a little flat, a bold pattern or fun color can wake it right up. It really comes down to balance—your rug can blend in, stand out or do a little of both, but the best ones always feel like they belong.
Related: Costco Shoppers Say This 'Beautiful' 2-Pack of Comfort Kitchen Mats 'Work Like a Charm'
World’s Most Famous Rabbit Debuted 88 Years Ago Today
Before he became a cultural icon, Bugs Bunny was just a new character finding his footing on screen.
Fast forward to today, it marks 88 years since Warner Bros. introduced the Looney Tunes star, making him one of the most recognizable figures in entertainment history.
On April 30, 1938, viewers first saw the early version of Bugs Bunny in the cartoon Porky's Hare Hunt.
At the time, the cartoon didn’t yet feature the fully formed version of the iconic rabbit that audiences recognize today, but it served as the starting point that led to his creation.
Prior to being named Bugs Bunny, director Ben "Bugs" Hardaway developed the early version of the character, initially calling him “Happy Rabbit,” who appeared in multiple Warner Bros. cartoons between 1938 and 1940.
It was the legendary voice actor Mel Blanc, known as "The Man of a Thousand Voices," who brought the character’s first version to life.
It was in the 1940s when the name Bugs Bunny was coined following the combined efforts of the original animator, Bugs Hardaway along with the renowned cartoonists Tex Avery, Chuck Jones, Bob Clampett and Friz Freleng.
Bugs Bunny on Broadway, 1991.Warner Brothers/Michael Ochs Archive/Getty Images
At the time, different creators helped shape the iconic character into the version that the public recognizes today.
The initial process included Robert McKimson creating a model sheet or guide to draw the character consistently, while Freleng was responsible for defining the character’s attitude, humor and behavior.
Avery and Jones, on the other hand, made further improvements based on Hardaway’s creation.
It wasn't until 1940 that Bugs Bunny appeared in A Wild Hare, showcasing the official and final version of the cartoon.
Jones previously shared that the personality of Bugs Bunny was a blend of the witty poet Dorothy Parker and Errol Flynn, the Hollywood Icon who starred in The Adventures of Robin Hood.
“He puts up a fight only when provoked, never goes looking for trouble,” as mentioned on the animator’s website.
American animator Chuck Jones, with his most famous creation, Bugs Bunny.Sergio Gaudenti/Sygma via Getty Images
Bugs Bunny’s Greatest Achievements That Shaped Animation HistoryAs a staple of the Warner Bros. family, Bugs Bunny has earned a string of accolades since being introduced in the ‘30s.
After appearing in numerous short films, feature films, television series, music recordings, video games and more, the beloved cartoon received its well-deserved star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1985.
The Looney Tunes star became the second animated character to receive such a prestigious honor. The first was Walt Disney’s Mickey Mouse in 1978.
Related: 1973 Rock Classic, Named No. 1 Hit Song for One Week, Became a Timeless Anthem
How a Security Failure Allowed an Intruder to Break Into Queen Elizabeth's Bedroom 44 Years Ago
Buckingham Palace is one of the most secure locations in the world, but a major security failure allowed an intruder to enter the bedroom of Queen Elizabeth II.
Michael Fagan, a London native who was 32 at the time, broke into Buckingham Palace on two occasions. On June 7, 1982, he reportedly entered the iconic landmark and left undetected. Fagan claimed he shimied up a drainpipe to enter through a third-story window into a maid’s window. The terrified woman called security, but when they didn’t find anyone in her room, they thought she had imagined it. He reportedly also tripped the alarm system twice during his time wandering the halls, but the police turned it off, thinking it was faulty. According to Fagan’s report of what happened that first night, he strolled around eating cheese and crackers. He then sat on the throne and drank half of a bottle of wine, waiting to get busted, but finally got bored and left.
Michael Fagan, the intruder who gained access to the bedroom of Queen Elizabeth II in Buckingham Palace in 1982, pictured at the Tower of London, UK, 9th February 1985. (Photo by R. Brigden/Express/Hulton Archive/Getty Images)R. Brigden/Express/Hulton Archive/Getty Images
"It was harder to get out than get in,” Fagan told The Independent during a 2012 interview about that first break-in. “I eventually found a door and walked out into the back gardens, climbed over the wall and walked down the Mall, looking back and thinking, 'Ooh'. I hadn't thought about going in there until that last second when it came into my head to do it, so I was shocked."
Days after roaming around Buckingham Palace, Fagan was arrested for stealing a car in London. He was sent to Brixton prison and released on bail three weeks later. The next day, July 9, 1982, he went to the palace for the second time.
RELATED: A Look Back at Queen Elizabeth II’s Most Glamorous Moments
Fagan scaled the 14-foot-high perimeter wall, which was reportedly topped with revolving spikes and barbed wire, and climbed up a drainpipe. He tripped an alarm upon entry, but it was once again disabled by the guards who thought it was a false alarm. He wandered around until he found his way to the royal apartments, specifically where Queen Elizabeth, then 56 years old, lived. While meandering through the palace, he reportedly broke a glass ashtray and sliced his hand open. When he entered her majesty’s chamber, he was covered in blood with a shard of glass.
Although initial reports claimed Fagan and the monarch had a lengthy chat, he clarified that she woke up, saw him, and ran out of the room for help. Unfortunately, due to a gap in their shift change, there was no armed officer outside the queen’s door. In hindsight, some systems in place led security staff to be confused about their specific duties, causing a major failure when Elizabeth desperately needed help. No police arrived after she phoned the palace switchboard twice. She used her bedside alarm bell before finally finding a maid in the hallway to go find help.
Paul Whybrew, Elizabeth’s longtime page who served by her side until she died in 2022, was out walking her corgis and the first to arrive. Fagan claimed that Whybrew poured him a drink as they waited for police to apprehend him.
Willie Whitelaw, who was serving as Home Secretary at the time, offered his resignation to the Queen because of the "seriously flawed" security plans. However, Elizabeth and Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher refused it.
LONDON - JUNE 11: Queen Elizabeth II with (from left) Princess Anne,Prince Phillip, Princess Michael of Kent, Peter Phillips, Prince Charles and Diana, Princess of Wales on the balcony of Buckingham Palace at the Trooping the Colour ceremony in London on June 11, 1983. (Photo by David Levenson/Getty Images)David Levenson/Getty Images
Fagan was not charged with trespassing in the Queen's bedroom because, at the time, the crime was not considered a criminal offense. He was charged with theft of the wine, but the charges were dropped when he was committed for psychiatric evaluation. In 2005, Buckingham Palace became a designated site, making trespassing a criminal offence.
RELATED: Royal Love Stories That Captivated the World From the Romantic to the Scandalous
As far as Fagan’s motive, he told The Independent he didn’t “know why” he broke into Buckingham Palace twice, noting he was “high on mushrooms for a long, long time” during those years.
'My Family’s Been Testing Nex Playground for 3 Weeks and It’s Been a Total Game-Changer'
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I'm someone who has to move, which isn't necessarily conducive to my desk job as a writer (I used to do more field work). My Peloton and running have, so far, helped sustain me and get out the restless energy that lives rent-free in my body and mind.
In some ways, I think my kids are similar (or maybe they're just 4- and 6-year-old kids). Their teachers describe them as "joys to have in class" who sit still and transition well, something I do not take for granted as a mother, especially of two boys. But sometimes I want to invite these teachers into my home so they can see my kids use my sofa as a trampoline, even though there is an actual indoor trampoline right next to it.
To be fair, though, even the indoor trampoline got real old, real fast during the brutal winter we recently had in the Northeast. My kids adore the snow, but the sub-zero temperatures and wind made it challenging for even my rough-and-tumble, resilient kids to stay outside for more than a few minutes at a time. Plus, the "snow bomb" that hit New York in February brought snow that reached my youngest son's chest. That restless energy had to go somewhere (our sofa). And then, everyone got exhausted and used the sofa for movie marathons.
While there's nothing wrong with hibernating in the winter and having the occasional veg-out in front of screens, I was starting to get concerned about the not-so-safe movement mixed with a lack of physical activity.
I had gotten ads for Nex Playground, but I hadn't sprung for it. I did spring for it when my editor offered me a chance to try it out, and I am so glad I did. Here's what happened when my family tried Nex Playground for three weeks and why I wouldn't be getting rid of it anytime soon (or ever).
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The Nex Playground is like a controller-free update to the Wii (which dominated the market in the aughts and 2010s). It's a small, motion-free gaming console that uses AI and a built-in camera to track body movements. Yes, there's a screen involved (in our case, our TV). But it's not passive viewing like with movies or TV shows, nor is it like many video games, which are essentially a workout for your thumbs and not much else.
Nex Playground
Shop It on AmazonIt costs $299, but it is also an HSA- and FSA-eligible product, which is pretty neat. You can also purchase the Nex Playground at these retailers:
How Nex Playground WorksThe Nex Playground includes a console with a camera that connects to the TV. There's no controller; just a remote to select games. Here's how the Nex Playground works with so little equipment:
- Motion tracking. The console features a wide-angle camera and uses AI (instead of wearables) to track 18 body points. It can track movements like waving and kicking. Those movements can translate into actions within the game, like whacking a mole.
- Up to four players can play. The Nex Playground can accommodate one to four players.
- It lists age appropriateness. Nex Playground will share the ages for which each game is best (though, as with other toys, your kids' readiness is entirely individual).
- It has privacy protections built in. The camera doesn't record or save footage to a cloud or server.
Courtesy Beth Ann Mayer
Setup instructions give me hives (just kidding) and migraines (only kind of kidding), especially with excited kids in the room. Luckily, Nex Playground's setup was easy.
First things first, we unboxed it, and I loved how eco-friendly the packaging was. It came in a cardboard box, and nothing was unnecessarily wrapped in plastic. My existential dread about the melting ice caps could take the afternoon off while I proceeded with the setup, with the help of my husband, who admittedly did most of the work (because, hives and migraines).
The most challenging part was clearing 8 feet of space (our living room is an explosion of toys). Nex Playground also suggests keeping pets out of the view of the camera—the family cat protested.
Courtesy Beth Ann Mayer
It's best to position your console as close to the edge of the surface you place it on as possible. The Nex Playground console plugs into your TV via an HDMI cable, and you'll need Wi-Fi. Once you plug it in, you'll use a remote (batteries included—so clutch) to select your language (English or French Canadian) and your Wi-Fi network.
You'll need to scan the QR code to activate your console and decide whether to use the free version or spring for Play Pass. Once it's all set up, you can quite literally jump right into playing.
Nex Playground Game Library and Play Pass InfoCourtesy Beth Ann Mayer
Nex Playground comes with a limited library of free games, such as Fruit Ninja (slice fruits and win points!) and whack-a-mole (no explanation necessary).
Play Pass, though, is an ever-evolving library of new games and updates—some of which lean into seasonal themes—that are a part of a plan you can purchase. They download automatically, streamlining the process for busy-enough parents.
The games are super-cool and can include some familiar faces for kids, like Peppa Pig. There's a Hungry Hippos one as well, another huge hit if your kids like the completely analog version of the classic game, like my littles. It's subscription-based, with a 12-month plan costing $89 or a 3-month plan costing $49.
Related: I Stopped Looking at My Phone Before Bed for 30 Days and I Was Honestly Surprised by the Results
My Family's Experience With Nex Playground: 7 TakeawaysCourtesy Beth Ann Mayer
1. The setup was a cinchIt took less than 10 minutes to set up the Nex Playground and get started, a huge win with stir-crazy kids. I appreciated how easy it was to understand and follow the instructions on the screen, without squinting to read pages-long manuals. The most challenging part was clearing space.
2. Finding games was also easyThe library is easy to navigate, and I appreciated the age suggestions. My children are on the younger side, so we stuck to games for 3+ and 5+ (my 4-year-old likes a good challenge). Fruit Ninja was an instant hit with my kids, who are in a ninja phase. They wanted to play it again and again.
3. You may have to coach them through staying in the frameAs easy as it was to set up and navigate the library, there was a learning curve in terms of teaching our kids to stay within the frame. I didn't necessarily hate that because it meant they were moving around, and, since they were having so much fun, getting told by the console to get back in the frame became part of the enjoyment and made everyone laugh. But more rigid kids might get frustrated.
4. It challenged themSpeaking of learning curves, my kids instantly loved the Nex Playground. But they didn't instantly nail all of the games. I loved that they got challenged. It forced them to think and pay attention rather than zone out, which I thought we did a bit too much during the dark and cold days of winter.
5. They moved so much moreI truly wish I had the Nex Playground in the winter, and I am so excited I will have it next year. It made moving around fun and something they wanted to do. As a mom, I'm so careful not to make exercise something to do to "get fit" or look a certain way. As a health writer, I know how important physical activity is.
Nex Playground can give my kids a way to have a blast and break a sweat without dealing with the weather, which was way too cold for us (and yes, I've heard and generally agree with, "There's no bad weather, only bad clothing," but this winter was its own breed of "no thanks").
6. They had to learn to loseI have zero delusions or goals of my kids getting college sports scholarships. But I do sign them up for rec sports in part because I want them to learn how to lose well. The Nex Playground served as another way to do that. My oldest had to learn that younger kids can beat him (my youngest is a pretty graceful loser to begin with, so far, but the more reps, the merrier).
7. They stopped asking for the TV all the timeIt can be really challenging to break screen time habits after even a week of blowing past limits, let alone a couple of months. Once we started testing the Nex Playground, my kids started asking if they could play games on the TV instead of watching it. They were much better-behaved and had far less pent-up energy. I noticed fewer fights and fewer meltdowns.
Related: 5 Traits of Parents Whose Kids Rarely Get Sick, Psychologist Shares
Is the Nex Playground Good for Adults?The games are generally aimed at kids, but adults can absolutely hop in and enjoy the Nex Playground. My husband did, especially to instruct and show the kids how to stay in the frame. It was so much fun watching my family bond (I was playing photographer).
Also, it's good for adults in an indirect way: Our kids were having fun, not fighting and entertained. I sometimes did other things while they were playing, which was nice. But I couldn't help but sit back and bask in their giggles—and feel like a better mom for reigning in passive screen use.
Related: How the Tin Can Landline Helped My Kids Connect Without Screens
Final Thoughts: Is Nex Playground Worth It?Courtesy Beth Ann Mayer
Nex Playground is 1000% worth it, and I would recommend it to any parent whose kids need to move a little. Not all days were made for outdoor play, and the Nex Playground is an excellent way to get physical activity indoors.
Since it's an active gaming experience versus a passive one, kids also have to engage their minds. It makes shutting the screen off and re-entering the analog world (where you have to work hard to get some gratification) less of a meltdown-triggering experience. My family had more fun and less frustration while testing Nex Playground, so now it's permanently taking up real estate in our living room.
Up Next:
Target’s 'Sturdy' $60 3-Drawer Rolling Storage Cabinet Is 'Perfect for Small Spaces'
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One day, your towels fit in your linen closet just fine — the next, they’re spilling out of the shelves. Pantry items start taking over counters, extra toiletries pile up under the sink, and suddenly, there’s nowhere left to tuck away necessities. The reality is, most homes aren’t built with enough storage for how we actually live. Which is why the best setups rely on adding your own solutions — things like carts, compact cabinets, and multi-use benches that can step in where built-ins fall short.
If that scenario sounds familiar, Target has a deal worth paying attention to right now. The Costway 3-Drawer Rolling Storage Cabinet is currently marked down a massive 74%, dropping from $230 to just $60. It gives you that extra room you’ve been needing without taking over the space you already have.
Costway 3-Drawer Rolling Storage Cabinet, $60 (was $230) at Target Shop at TargetDesigned with small spaces in mind, this cabinet leans into a vertical, slim profile that can slide into spots you’d normally overlook. Measuring 16.5 inches long and 7.5 inches wide at the base and about 22.5 inches tall, it’s compact enough to fit between a toilet and vanity, up against kitchen cabinetry, tucked beside a bed, next to a washing machine, or into that awkward gap inside a closet. Despite the narrow footprint, it still gives you three full drawers to work with, each sized to hold everyday essentials like toiletries, makeup, paper goods, or pantry overflow.
It’s made from durable polypropylene plastic that’s designed to handle daily use without warping or cracking, and each drawer can hold up to 11 pounds, which is more than enough for typical household items. The top surface also supports up to 11 pounds, giving you extra space for things you want within reach. Rounded edges mean you won’t bump into a sharp corner, while the drawers glide open easily thanks to concave pull handles that are built right into the design, so nothing sticks out or gets in the way in tighter quarters.
It sits on four directional wheels, so you can move it from room to room without much effort, whether you’re cleaning, reorganizing, or just switching up how you use your space. At only 6.5 pounds, it’s lightweight enough to carry if needed, but still stable once it’s in place. The exterior looks clean and minimal, with a subtle fluted texture that adds a bit of visual interest without clashing with your decor. Setup is minimal too, just attach the wheels, and it’s ready to go.
Shoppers say this “convenient” and “easy to assemble” drawer is especially “perfect for small spaces” and “fits in tight areas.” One reviewer wrote that the construction feels “sturdy” and “heavy duty,” adding that “the drawers are long/deep enough to hold quite a bit.”
Shop More Deals- Costway 4-Drawer Narrow Rolling Storage Cabinet, $70 (was $260) at Target
- Costway 6-Drawer Narrow Rolling Storage Cabinet Set, $175 (was $450) at Target
- Costway 5-Drawer Narrow Rolling Storage Cabinet, $85 (was $210) at Target
At $60, the Costway 3-Drawer Rolling Storage Cabinet makes your space more functional in an instant. Add it to your Target cart while it’s still 74% off and give everything in your house a home.
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2023 Film Named the 'Scariest Horror Movie' of the Last Five Years
Since 2020, critics and audiences alike have been giving more acclaim to the horror genre. In just 2026 alone,Ryan Coogler's vampire masterpiece Sinners took home a total of four Oscars, andAmy Madigan got the Oscar for playing the creepy but charming villain Aunt Gladys in Weapons.
That being said, some newer horror movies have more nightmarish scenes than others, even if they are not necessarily better films. For instance, Colliderreleased a ranking of the top "25 scariest horror movies of the last 5 years."
The ranking, published on April 1, featured popular scary movies like 2025's 28 Years Later, The Black Phone from 2021, Barbarian from 2022, 2022's Terrifier 2, Smile, also released in 2022, and Talk to Me, released in 2023. Collider crowned 2023's When Evil Lurks as the scariest horror movie released since 2021. According to the publication, the unique possession film, directed by Demián Rugna, is almost constant with its upsetting, disgusting moments.
When Evil Lurks, starring Ezequiel Rodríguez and Demián Salomon, has a rating of 96 percent on Rotten Tomatoes.
Demián Rugna Opened up About His Film in a 2023 InterviewIn a 2023 interview with Sinister Cinema Reviews, Rugna noted that the film involves a mass possession, creepy children, and a zombie-like plague. He said he likes the fact that it's difficult to classify what exact sub-genre the horror film belongs to.
"I love the idea that you have some difficulty to classify [the movie]. Because I'm all the time trying to think about something fresh in the movies that I grow and this is my goal. Because I am a horror fan, so I mean, I want to sit in my chair and watch a movie and do not know what I'm watching," explained the director in the 2023 interview.
He also said that the film's shocking moments are necessary plot points within the movie, as opposed to violence for violence's sake.
"The gore and the shock moments are pushing the script, it's pushing the story," said Rugna, who also wrote When Evil Lurks.
Martha Stewart, 84, Reveals The Surprising Secret to Her Youthful Glow
Martha Stewartisn’t keeping her glow a mystery; she’s breaking it down piece by piece.
Just days after sharing a fresh-faced selfie mid-flight, the 84-year-old lifestyle mogul is opening up about how she maintains her signature glow, and the answer might surprise you.
While attending the King’s Trust 50th Anniversary Gala at Christie's in New York City on Wednesday, April 29—notably hosted by King Charles III and Queen Camilla—Stewart shared a deeper philosophy behind her youthful energy. “Curiosity and interest in many things and optimism,” she said to Hello! when asked about her glow.
Stewart absolutely stunned on the red carpet in a shimmering navy gown, surrounded by other notable figures like Lionel Richie, Charlotte Tilbury, and Anna Wintour.
And slowing down doesn’t seem to be on her agenda. “I'm doing a lot right now. You'll see. I'm into software. I'm into skincare. I'm into bed and baths. You'll see. So much,” she teased.
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Taking to Instagram just a week prior, Stewart gave fans a peek at her skincare routine while traveling, writing, “I will admit this is what I look like at 35,000 feet.” She added, “The secret to good skin when you travel is not the flat bed. I always pack my @elmbiosciences Biosciences Night Cream. Always.”
The product, which she helped develop, has become a go-to for combating the dryness of airplane cabins. “You don’t want to start or end a trip worrying about redness or wrinkles. With Elm, I wake up and my skin is calm and hydrated, even after hours of sleeping in recirculated air,” she explained.
So for Stewart, the glow is both internal and intentional.
Candace Cameron Bure Announces Major Career News: 'Secret's Out!'
Full House actress Candace Cameron Bure just announced major career news on social media—and fans can't wait.
On Thursday, April 30, the former child star who played DJ Tanner in the beloved '90s sitcomtook to Instagram with a video message for her followers.
"Secret’s out!" Cameron Bure, 50, declared. "I’m going back on tour this fall!!! 🙌🏼🎤 Last year, tickets sold out FAST, so don’t wait and use my presale code LIVETOUR to get your tickets today at Candace.com/tour 🎉."
On the tour website, Cameron Bure listed eight dates in September, along with a description of the two-hour event. It will feature Dr. Tabatha, a "triple board certified physician who helps women reconnect the body, mind and soul for true healing." Additionally, attendees can expect games, prizes, "heartfelt stories, and lively conversations rooted in faith."
In the accompanying video, the Great American Family actress explained, "We're going to go deep on women's health, faith, and real, personal stories. You know, the hard seasons, the joyful ones, and everything in between."
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"Step into an evening that feels like catching up with a friend who makes you laugh, inspires your heart, and leaves you with fresh motivation," Cameron Bure's tour website reads. It adds, "Come ready to laugh, be encouraged, and leave motivated to live with purpose and joy."
In the comments, Cameron Bure's followers rejoiced over the news. Her friend and fellow GAF star, Danica McKellar, exclaimed, "Yay! 😍."
Another Instagram user wrote, "So excited!! Already got my tickets for Minneapolis! Girls’ night with my sister and niece! 💗."
Someone else echoed, "I’m so excited for you🎉🎉 YAY!!!"
A different follower commented, "Yes!! And congratulations, Candace, and I'm so happy for you!! ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️😊."
Meanwhile, yet another fan suggested, "A national talk show is a better idea!"
Next: Candace Cameron Bure Sends Direct Message to Fans After Posting & Deleting Swimsuit Photos