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Nobody lights up the holidays quite like Martha Stewart. This season, the hostess with the mostess has several new additions to her home collection for 2026. If you could use some new Christmas decorations this year, we highly recommend checking out JCPenney’s current sale. The retailer has everything you need to deck your halls with cozy accents, nostalgic vibes, and so much Martha decor at fantastic prices. 

You can snag the Martha Stewart Lighted Glass Tabletop Tree at JCPenney right now for just $22. Normally $50, this gorgeous accent was already discounted by 50%, but entering the code GHOSTS at checkout takes an additional 30% off. The tree also comes in the more traditional seasonal shades of green and red, which are also currently marked down and eligible for the coupon code.

Courtesy of JCPenney

If you’re looking to lean into the pastel holiday aesthetic this season, this tree’s light pink glass is the perfect accent. Equal parts whimsical and chic, it has a charming, retro-inspired look that’s lit from within by 15 warm LED bulbs for a warm, shimmering glow. 

Measuring just over 15 inches tall, this battery-powered tree is the perfect size to decorate an end table or nightstand. It would also make an adorable addition to a larger table’s centerpiece or a mantle. You can use it as a standalone decoration for a pop of color or to add nostalgic charm to a grouping of Christmas decorations.

Beyond this glass tree’s decorative appeal, it’s also perfectly priced to snag for gifting. If you’re heading to a holiday party, it’d make a fantastic hostess gift, or you could wrap it up for a white elephant-style exchange. 

• Martha Stewart Amaryllis Arrangement Floral Arrangement, $18 (was $45) at JCPenney
• Martha Stewart Standing Reindeer Christmas Tabletop Decor, $27 (was $62) at JCPenney
• Martha Stewart Printed Seasonal Plush Throw, $27 (was $65) at JCPenney

Related: Martha Stewart’s New 3-Piece 100% Cotton Reversible Quilt Set Is a Festive Farmhouse Dream, and It’s 58% Off

Snag the Martha Stewart Lighted Glass Tabletop Tree on sale for $22 at JCPenney, and keep more money in your pocket for your holiday shopping list. Don’t forget to add the code GHOSTS when you check out to secure this deal!

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.

Friday nights are all about Edgewater drama, and Fire Country Season 5 Episode 3 is set to bring tension and moral dilemmas. It’s also a chance for Bode to put his volunteer firefighters to the test, after Manny was so against it.

Titled “What Needs to Be Done,” there’s a special guest performance during the episode. Get ready to see INK on the stage at Smokey’s, and if you haven’t heard her music yet, now is the time to pay attention.

This week’s episode is set to put more stress on Station 42. They continue to be down manpower, and after the attack during the previous episode, they are even down Three Rock. After all, that fire truck took a beating when all the bullets came flying.

So, it’s up to Bode and his volunteer firefighter program. Just how many people from Edgewater are willing to put their lives at risk without pay? It’s not an easy ask, and it’s no wonder that Manny was so against it. They also have no training and no time to be trained fully, which could threaten the entire venture.

INK’s performance at Smokey’s Bar is a huge draw for the series, and she gets to perform for the crowd with songs that beautifully connect to the dilemmas, journeys, and bonds forming throughout the episode.

Are you ready for an action-packed episode? With multiple trailer homes on fire, you just know that there will be plenty of discussions about what Station 42 can offer the town of Edgewater.

Take a look at the trailer and synopsis:

“As financial pressures continue to mount at Station 42, Bode fights to prove that Edgewater’s new volunteer firefighting program can make a difference; recording artist INK performs at Smokey’s Bar.”

Make sure you’re seated at 9 p.m. ET sharp on Friday, Oct. 23. The new episode will air on CBS, and if you don’t have cable, then you’ll probably want to invest in a Paramount+ Premium subscription, especially if you watch more CBS shows. This gives you live viewing options and on-demand services.

If you have the Paramount+ Essentials tier, then you can stream Fire Country on Saturdays.

We have a selection of stills from the episode to share:

“What Needs To Be Done” — CBS Original Series Fire Country, scheduled to air on Friday, Oct. 23 (9:00-10:00 PM, ET/PT), on the CBS Television Network. Pictured (L-R): Jordan Calloway as Jake Crawford and Diane Farr as Sharon Leone. Photo: Justine Yeung/CBS ©2026 CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

“What Needs To Be Done” — CBS Original Series Fire Country, scheduled to air on Friday, Oct. 23 (9:00-10:00 PM, ET/PT), on the CBS Television Network. Pictured (L-R): Max Thieriot as Bode Leone and Olivia Thirlby as CJ Ryan. Photo: Justine Yeung/CBS ©2026 CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

“What Needs To Be Done” — CBS Original Series Fire Country, scheduled to air on Friday, Oct. 23 (9:00-10:00 PM, ET/PT), on the CBS Television Network. Pictured (L-R) Olivia Thirlby as CJ Ryan, Max Thieriot as Bode Leone, and Jordan Calloway as Jake Crawford. Photo: Justine Yeung/CBS ©2026 CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

“What Needs To Be Done” — CBS Original Series Fire Country, scheduled to air on Friday, Oct. 23 (9:00-10:00 PM, ET/PT), on the CBS Television Network. Pictured (L-R): Jeff Fahey as Walter Leone and Diane Farr as Sharon Leone. Photo: Justine Yeung/CBS ©2026 CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

“What Needs To Be Done” — CBS Original Series Fire Country, scheduled to air on Friday, Oct. 23 (9:00-10:00 PM, ET/PT), on the CBS Television Network. Pictured: Jordan Calloway as Jake Crawford. Photo: Justine Yeung/CBS ©2026 CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

“What Needs To Be Done” — CBS Original Series Fire Country, scheduled to air on Friday, Oct. 23 (9:00-10:00 PM, ET/PT), on the CBS Television Network. Pictured: INK. Photo: Justine Yeung/CBS ©2026 CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

“What Needs To Be Done” — CBS Original Series Fire Country, scheduled to air on Friday, Oct. 23 (9:00-10:00 PM, ET/PT), on the CBS Television Network. Pictured: INK. Photo: Justine Yeung/CBS ©2026 CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Jeffrey Spence was sentenced to life in prison in March 2026 after a jury found him guilty of first-degree murder in the 2022 killing of Kirby Carpenter, his daughter’s boyfriend, in Tippah County, Mississippi. 

The verdict came at Spence’s second trial after jurors in his first trial failed to reach an agreement in September 2025, per Court TV. The jury acquitted him of capital murder and manslaughter, but the first-degree murder conviction led Judge John Kelly Luther to impose a mandatory life sentence.

Carpenter, a 36-year-old businessman, was found dead outside his Mississippi home on Dec. 2, 2022, two days after he was last seen alive. His death began a lengthy investigation that eventually led authorities to Spence, his daughter Caitlin Spence, and his wife, Karen Spence.

Prosecutors argued that money was a key motive in Carpenter’s killing. During the trial, they pointed to Carpenter’s business dealings and his habit of carrying valuable items. He owned Mississippi Gold, Silver, and Coin Exchange and was reportedly known to carry a bag containing an estimated $200,000 to $300,000 in cash, silver, or gold.

🔍CRIME SHOW 🔎DATELINE NBC–“The Betrayal of Kirby Carpenter”
9:00 PM EST ✨Friday✨
Kirby Carpenter, a 36-year-old self-made millionaire from Ripley, Mississippi, who accumulated his wealth dealing in gold, silver, and cash. He was found shot to death outside his rural Tippah… pic.twitter.com/E3lb3kAzSW

Caitlin played a key role in the case after agreeing to testify against her father as part of a plea deal. She told jurors that her father had confessed his involvement in Carpenter’s death after she discovered her boyfriend’s body. Spence’s defense team challenged her account and portrayed Carpenter as an abusive drug dealer.

The case also involved allegations that property was taken after Carpenter’s death. Caitlin and Karen eventually pleaded guilty to lesser offenses connected to events after the killing and received suspended prison sentences.

Carpenter was last seen alive on Nov. 30, 2022, after returning to his home in Tippah County from a grocery store trip. Investigators believe he was shot that evening with a shotgun, according to Tippah News.

His girlfriend, Caitlin, discovered his body on Dec. 2 near an outdoor storage area close to the garage. She called 911, and responding authorities found signs that the body had been moved from the garage area and concealed outside.

Investigators also found details that raised questions about a possible robbery. Carpenter’s truck was locked, groceries remained inside and his keys were still on him. He had $2,868 in cash on his person, but a satchel he regularly used to carry money and important documents was missing. The home’s exterior security cameras had also been disabled.

At the time of his death, Carpenter owned a precious metals and coin business. He was also the father of two children, including a daughter he shared with Caitlin.

The investigation continued for nearly a year before a new lead helped authorities move the case forward. In November 2023, David Barnes, a former employee of Carpenter’s who had been arrested on unrelated burglary charges, spoke with investigators about a conversation he said he had with Caitlin.

Barnes said Caitlin had told him that “things got out of hand and Jeff Spence killed Kirby.” Investigators later arrested Caitlin and her parents on Nov. 30, 2023, exactly one year after Carpenter’s death, WDAM reported.

The arrests brought the family’s connections to Carpenter under close scrutiny. Prosecutors pursued charges related to the killing, an alleged conspiracy, and missing property.

Spence’s first trial took place in September 2025 but ended in a mistrial after the jury split 6–6 and could not reach a verdict. The case went back to court in March 2026, giving prosecutors another chance to present their evidence.

Caitlin testified at both trials. In her testimony, she said her father had told her he returned to Mississippi on the day Carpenter was killed, despite previously saying he had returned to Virginia. She also described a conversation involving a package of drugs allegedly left on Carpenter’s property for resale.

Caitlin told jurors that her father had suggested he was responsible for Carpenter’s death. She also described changes in his behavior after the killing, saying he became “aggressive” and “short” with her. Her testimony became an important part of the prosecution’s case.

Another witness, Tracy Delp, testified that Spence had spoken about wanting Carpenter dead. According to Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal, Delp said Spence had complained about the way Carpenter treated Caitlin and expressed concern about how Carpenter might treat his granddaughter.

“He said he wanted him killed,” Delp said of Spence.

Delp also testified that Spence had asked him several times to kill Carpenter and offered him $5,000. The defense sought to weaken Delp’s credibility by pointing to his criminal record and history of drug addiction.

Spence’s other daughter, Carolyn Aguayo, also testified. She described the family as a “criminal family” and said she had called her parents “Bonnie and Clyde.” She also testified that her father had once talked about using a shotgun to kill someone because it would be easier to dispose of the evidence.

The defense challenged the prosecution’s account and tried to portray Carpenter as an abusive drug dealer. However, the second jury found Spence guilty of first-degree murder in late March 2026.

The jury did not find him guilty of capital murder or manslaughter. Judge John Kelly Luther then sentenced Spence to life in prison, ending the criminal trial with a punishment that followed the first-degree murder conviction.

Caitlin’s role in the case changed before her father’s retrial. In April 2025, she pleaded guilty to accessory after the fact to murder. Under her agreement with prosecutors, she was required to testify against her parents.

After Spence’s conviction, Caitlin was sentenced on March 30, 2026, to 20 years in prison, with the full sentence suspended. She also received five years of supervised probation, per WTVA 9 News. A suspended sentence means the prison term is not served immediately, provided the person follows the conditions set by the court.

Karen Spence, Jeffrey’s wife and Caitlin’s mother, also reached a plea agreement. In September 2025, she entered an Alford plea to accessory after the fact to grand larceny. This type of plea allows a defendant to accept a conviction while not admitting guilt, while acknowledging that prosecutors have evidence that could lead to a conviction.

Prosecutors alleged that Karen helped Jeffrey obtain valuables taken from Carpenter’s property after his death. She received a 10-year prison sentence, fully suspended, and five years of unsupervised probation.

The case later received national television attention through “Dateline NBC.” The two-hour episode, The Betrayal of Kirby Carpenter, premiered on Oct. 16, with correspondent Andrea Canning reporting on the killing and the investigation that followed.

The episode examined how a death that initially appeared connected to a robbery developed into a case involving the victim’s girlfriend and her parents. It also brought attention to the two trials that ended with Spence’s conviction.

The case continues to draw attention because of the close family ties among the people involved, the financial motive argued by prosecutors and the testimony that helped secure the conviction.

Related: Amber Guyger killed neighbor Botham Jean in 2018 after entering his apartment by mistake; she is now free on parole after serving 7 of her 10-year sentence

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When it comes to home decor, not every purchase has to be purely functional. In fact, the best spaces often strike a balance between practical pieces and ones that simply spark joy (Hello, Marie Kondo). With the rise of cottagecore and nostalgic decorating trends, playful accents like adorable table lamps are having a major moment.

We rounded up some small, whimsical lamps from Amazon that start at just $15. For example, who doesn’t want a desk lamp that looks as if a tiny bird has just landed next to your computer? Or a lamp that looks like a very cranky cat? These charming lamps are proof that you don’t need to fully embrace the whimsical look to add a little playfulness to your space. You can simply dip a toe in with a dopamine purchase like one of these picks, which are all $20 or less.

Courtesy of Amazon

Calling all bird lovers! This one’s for you. Cordless, adjustable in color temperature and a detachable base — don’t let the cuteness of this little lamp fool you — the functionality is also there. One reviewer wrote, “These bird lights are cute and practical. They give off more light than I expected from a battery powered lamp. The size is perfect for sitting on a bedside table, and can give off enough light to see pretty well without waking a sleeping partner.” Shop it in maple or red hues, or you can opt for a two-piece lamp set starting at $19.

Courtesy of Amazon

This lying duck night lamp brings us right back to those playful ’90s bedroom decor days. At just $15, it’s an easy add to cart, whether you’re looking for a cute Easter basket gift or simply want to make bedtime a little more fun. The soft, soothing glow (it has touch control and is dimmable) creates a calming atmosphere that can help kids wind down more easily at night. Plus, according to the brand, the duck’s legs can even double as a phone holder. “I sent this to a friend to bring her a little joy and she loved it,” one shopper wrote.

Courtesy of Amazon

This bedside lamp is modern and sleek while also being extremely functional. If you are like us, our bedside table can occasionally become chaotic and messy. The Fenmzee Bedside table lamp lets you take your four different chargers and simplify into one lamp. Plus, the lamp comes with the functionality of a dimmable touch control feature to make a quick change to three different levels — low, medium and high. The lower settings are great for creating “ambient lighting,” while the brighter ones are fitting for tasks that require a little more illumination, like reading or working. The best part about the lamp right now, however, is that it’s on sale for under $20. 

Courtesy of Amazon

This cranky little cat brings plenty of attitude and functionality to a space. The cat night light features 16 different color options, so you can easily switch up the vibe depending on your mood. Whether you want a soft, calming glow or something a bit more playful, it delivers. Just think of how cute it’d look perched up on a bookshelf. Plus, it’s rechargeable and offers up to 12 hours of light on a single charge, making it as practical as it is adorable. It’s a sweet way for cat lovers to treat themselves, but also makes a “great gift for someone who has everything,” one reviewer said.

Courtesy of Amazon

This moon lamp from Logrotate has been a shopper favorite on Amazon for a handful of years now. Bringing a sense of calm to any room, the 3D printed moon adds a dreamy and celestial touch making things feel instantly more cozy and elevated. “This is one of my favorite things I own,” one shopper wrote. “I use it every single day.”

Just as the laying cat lamp above, this moon lamp has 16 color options and can use either remote and touch control. This pick is truly out of this world! 

Related: Walmart’s $20 Crystal Touch Lamp Blooms With Luminous Sunflowers and Casts the Most Ethereal Glow

These small lamps pack a big bunch when it comes to flare and style. With just the right amount of light and personality a lamp can help an entire room come together in an instant. Whether you are leaning toward playful or more modern, these affordable options from Amazon won’t take a major investment, but will add some cozy joy to your home. They’re proof that great things can come in small packages!

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Pilot was one of those pop rock bands from the 1970s that people remember for a few hit tracks, and one of them became a soft rock staple that got an interesting resurgence decades later.

The band released “Magic” in 1974, and it was considered their breakthrough on the charts after having initially formed a few years earlier. Released on their debut album, From the Album of the Same Name, the song was penned by 24-year-old David Paton and 21-year-old Billy Lyall.

“Magic” did the job of putting Pilot on the map for a while, as it landed at No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 11 in the UK. It had greater success in Canada, where it topped the charts, while making some waves in Europe. In an interview with HotDiscTV, Paton even admits they didn’t do any promotion in the U.S. due to poor management.

Grunge even ranks it in its Top 5 list of the best soft rock one-hit wonders. “Magic” is a feel-good song about waking up to sunrise, with Paton having revealed that the inspiration partially came from his wife.

“She just happened to say, ‘I’ve never been awake to see the daybreak,’ and it stuck with me,” he said. “I knew it was going to work with a little chorus that I had on my tape. I picked up my guitar and wrote the verse using her words.”

The track didn’t make Pilot millions or famous, but it did gain traction decades later, in the early 2000s. “Magic” was reimagined by singer Selena Gomez at the height of her fame with Disney Channel.

She converted the song into a pop-rock track that was used as a promotional single for the Disney Channel series, Wizards of Waverly Place. It landed on the Billboard Hot 100 chart at No. 61 and entered the charts in the UK and Canada. Her cover of the song was later used for the TV film, Wizards of Waverly Place: The Movie. 

A decade later, “Magic” went through another resurgence, but for a drastically different reason. The pharmaceutical brand, Nova, began using the song for their Ozempic commercials. It’s an injectable drug used to treat Type 1 diabetes but gained popularity for its weight-loss effects. The song suddenly brought in royalties for Paton.

“I knew that Ozempic were using ‘Magic’ because the publishing was coming in, and my earnings were suddenly going up,” he said, according to Guitar Player. “Friends were phoning me and saying, ‘David, do you know your song’s being played every 20 minutes here in the states on TV?’”

Paton was asked to return to Abbey Road Studios to re-record the song with some lyric tweaks for Ozempic. Comically enough, the newfound popularity of the song led Paton to meet one of his idols, the Beach Boys’ Brian Wilson.

“One of Brian’s band members, guitarist Probyn Gregory, told me Brian loved my song and sang it all the time on their car journeys to their shows,” said Paton.

The Pilot frontman met with Wilson while they were in Glasgow and took a photo together. It became a moment that meant so much to Paton, and it was all thanks to “Magic.”

Related: 1967 Hit, Covered by a Future Oscar-Winner Heath Ledger, Is Still a Pop Culture Classic 50 Years Later

After a highly emotional week and history-making controversy behind the scenes at Dancing with the Stars, viewers tuned in to Dedication Night in droves and were treated to beautiful dances and touching tributes on Tuesday, October 20.

What fans didn’t see on TV, though, was a lengthy post-show hug between judge Carrie Ann Inaba and pro dancer Jenna Johnson, whose tense exchange the week prior about whether Johnson’s dance with Harry Shum Jr. had an illegal “lift,” turned into quite a mess for the show.

When Johnson’s husband, fellow pro Val Chmerkovskiy, defended his wife online with a comment he later deleted and apologized for, producers deemed the post so “inappropriate” that he was suspended from the show for the week.

Several audience members captured Inaba and Johnson’s embrace on their cell phones and posted the footage on social media. Fans were quick to debate the authenticity of the hug. Some insisted it was “staged” or a “PR stunt” while others expressed relief that the hug seemed “healing” and “compassionate.”

So, who’s right? Body language expert Inbaal Honigman was asked by Casino.org to analyze Johnson and Inaba’s embrace frame by frame, and her verdict was that the hug and the feeling behind it were real, explaining, “There are a few nonverbal cues which suggest that Jenna and Carrie Ann’s hug is warm and genuine, not just a fake show of unity for the cameras.”

Honigman said Johnson and Inaba’s hands “tell a whole story,” explaining, “Both ladies place their hands, open and curved, on each other’s backs. If they didn’t want the hug to be warm and genuine, their hands would have been flat, tense and cold. Open hands are a mark of sharing and vulnerability and the fact that the hands are lightly curved reveals that they’re not tense.”

“Their muscles rest in a natural curve, no tension, showing that this hug is totally natural and spontaneous,” she added. “Placing their hands on each other’s backs literally says ‘I’ve got your back.’ It is a mark of support and trust.”

Honigman also said that it appears there are “no hard feelings” between the two women, noting, “People who dislike each other would generally avoid any contact, especially around bare skin, and would certainly won’t embrace in such a full and warm way.”

It remains to be seen whether Inaba and Chmerkovskiy will hug it out, but he will be back in the ballroom to dance with his season 35 partner, actress Jenna Dewan, for the show’s Horror Night on October 27 at 8 p.m. ET/PT on ABC and Disney+.

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

Everyone has those shoes that live at the front door that you can slip on at a moment’s notice, whether you’re grabbing the mail, taking the dog out, or are running late. If you don’t have a go-to pair, we found one that is comfy, lightweight, breathable, and affordable. It’s the Skechers Court Break Slip-On Sneakers, which are now on sale for nearly 30% off. 

The footwear originally cost $62, but has been reduced to just $44 at Walmart. The sneakers are available in black, mauve, taupe, and white, which are the perfect minimalist colors for those who are in need of an everyday shoe that goes with everything. The sneakers are being sold in sizes ranging from 5 to 11, including half sizes, at a standard shoe width. Shoppers said that they run slightly large, so consult the sizing chart before purchasing.  

Courtesy of Walmart

The laceless shoe design is made from a vegan chevron quilted leather upper that’s commonly used for handbags to make them look luxurious without using real animal hides (so it’s essentially a synthetic material that has a zig zag stitching pattern).

The sneaker insoles consist of an air-cooled memory foam that provides support without allowing the feet to overheat while wearing them. The rubber outsole is flexible with traction for uneven surfaces. 

Courtesy of Walmart

Shoppers described the sneakers as “beautiful,” “well-made,” and “very comfortable,” adding that they provide the “perfect fit.” One customer wrote, “I love this design and wear them for work and everyday use.” The beauty of this shoe, aside from the fact that you can slip them on easily, is that they’re extremely versatile, so you can wear them in both casual and professional settings. Whether you’re running to the grocery store or heading into the office, these Skechers can be dressed up or down to match the vibe.

They also pair well with a wide range of clothing types. Wear them with anything from trousers and a classic tee, to casual jean shorts and a tank top. This is the kind of style that will last you for years, so the options are truly unlimited.

• Montana West Hobo Bag, $23 (was $40) at Walmart
• Temofon Wide Leg Pants, $15 (were $29) at Walmart
• BLVB Striped Capri Pants, $12 at Walmart

Related: Walmart’s ‘Cute’ $25 Suede Slip-on Mules Are ‘Comfortable to Wear All Day Long’

Nearly every color and size option is in stock right now — but that won’t be the case for long. Add a pair of these comfy Skechers slip-on sneakers (or two) to your cart before they’re gone. Your seasonal wardrobe will thank you for shopping for this $44 Walmart deal! 

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.

Oprah Winfrey and Dwayne Johnson have donated $10 million to launch the People’s Fund of Maui, a relief program created to provide direct financial support to adults affected by the devastating August 2023 wildfires in Hawaii. 

The initiative aims to help displaced residents pay for essential needs while they recover from the disaster.

Announced in August 2023, the fund was established to put money directly into the hands of people whose lives were disrupted by the fires. Eligible adults who lived in the affected areas of Lahaina and Kula and were displaced by the wildfires were set to receive $1,200 per month.

Winfrey and Johnson launched the program with their own initial contribution of $10 million. They also invited the public to donate, with the goal of providing more financial help to families and individuals facing the difficult task of rebuilding their lives.

pic.twitter.com/J7In6Svam6

Oprah Winfrey just explained how her and Dwayne, ‘The Rock’ Johnson used their $5 million dollars to startup the People’s Fund of Maui instead of donating the $10 million Oprah stated:

“The infrastructure is in place for your donations to help people be…

“Every dollar that you send is going to go into an account that goes directly to the people,” Winfrey said, according to CBS News.

The initiative came as Maui faced the effects of one of Hawaii’s most devastating disasters. The fires killed at least 115 people, according to reports at the time, while many others were still missing or unaccounted for. 

Thousands of residents were displaced, and homes, businesses, and historic sites suffered severe damage.

The People’s Fund of Maui was created to help residents deal with the financial pressure that followed the wildfires. Instead of focusing only on general relief efforts, the program was designed to provide direct cash assistance to people affected by the disaster.

According to the announcement, eligible adults displaced by the fires in Lahaina and Kula could apply to receive $1,200 per month. The payments were intended to help residents manage basic expenses as they worked toward recovery.

For many families, losing a home also meant losing everyday belongings, a sense of security, and, in some cases, the ability to earn a living. Direct financial support can give survivors more freedom to decide which needs require attention first.

Winfrey said she had spent time meeting people in the community and asking what kind of help they needed most.

“I have been meeting with people throughout the community that were impacted by the fires over the last few weeks, asking what they most needed and how I could be of service,” Winfrey said in a statement, per People.

She also explained that money was a major concern for residents trying to plan their next steps.

“The main thing I’ve been hearing is their concern about how to move forward under the immense financial burden.”

Winfrey added that her goal was to help affected residents decide what rebuilding would look like for them. Her involvement also reflected her long-standing connection to Maui, where she has lived for many years.

Johnson also spoke about the destruction caused by the wildfires and the strength shown by Maui residents during the crisis.

“As people around the world watched the catastrophic loss and devastation caused by the Maui wildfires, they also witnessed the great spirit and resilience of our Polynesian culture and the tremendous strength of the people of Maui. Even in the most difficult of times, the people of Maui come together, and we rise — that’s what makes us stronger,” Johnson said.

The actor, who spent part of his childhood in Hawaii and is of Samoan descent, said he and Winfrey were grateful to work with community leaders to establish the fund.

“These leaders are offering their guidance to ensure our fund can put money directly in the hands of those individuals most affected,” he said.

Johnson also thanked first responders, local groups and individuals who worked to help residents during the emergency. He encouraged people who wanted to help to offer support and resources to displaced members of the community.

Related: George Clooney slept on friends’ couches when broke; in 2013 he gave 14 of them a million dollars each in cash at a dinner

Today’s NYT Connections Sports Edition puzzle covers MLB teams reaching the League Championship Series, defunct and former team names, notable Milwaukee Brewers All-Stars from past eras and World Series MVPs with their first letters changed.

Get excited—there’s another New York Times game to add to your daily routine! Those of us word game addicts who already play Wordle, Connections, Strands and the Mini Crossword now have Connections Sports Edition to add to the mix.

So, if you’re looking for some hints and answers for today’s Connections Sports Edition on Friday, October 23, 2026, you’ve come to the right place.

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

New York Times

Connections Sports Edition is just like the regular Connections word puzzle, in that it’s a game that resets at 12 a.m. EST each day and has 16 different words listed. It’s up to you to figure out each group of four words that belong to a certain category, with four categories in total.

This new version is sports-specific, however, as a partnership between The New York Times and The Athletic.

As the NYT site instructs, for Connections Sports Edition, you “group sports terms that share a common thread.”

Related: The 26 Funniest NYT Connections Game Memes You’ll Appreciate if You Do This Daily Word Puzzle

Here are some hints about the four categories to help you figure out the word groupings.

• Yellow: They made it.
• Green: Not current teams.
• Blue: Pride of Milwaukee.
• Purple:  Star players, with a twist.

OK, time for a second hint…we’ll give you the actual categories now. Spoilers below!

• Yellow: MLB TEAMS TO REACH THE LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES THIS YEAR
• Green: FORMER MLB TEAM NAMES
• Blue: BREWERS ALL-STARS, HISTORICALLY
• Purple: WORLD SERIES MVP’S, WITH THE FIRST LETTER CHANGED

If you’re looking for the answers, no worries—we’ve got them below. So, don’t scroll any further if you don’t want to see the solutions!

The answers to today’s Connections Sports Edition #759 are coming up next.

Related: 15 Fun Games Like Connections to Play Every Day

• MLB TEAMS TO REACH THE LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES THIS YEAR: BREWERS, DODGERS, GUARDIANS, RAYS
• FORMER MLB TEAM NAMES: BROWNS, DEVIL RAYS, EXPOS, PILOTS
• Blue: BREWERS ALL-STARS, HISTORICALLY: FIELDER, FINGERS, SHEETS, WEEKS
• WORLD SERIES MVP’S, WITH THE FIRST LETTER CHANGED: CAMELS, EYE, MEAGER, METER

Don’t worry if you didn’t get them this time—we’ve all been there.

Up next, catch up on the answers to recent Wordle puzzles.

Related: NYT Connections Sports Edition Today: Hints and Answers for Thursday, October 22, 2026

Collin Gosselin cleared up where his relationship with sister Hannah Gosselin stands after she hinted at an estrangement.

“All families are complicated. I’ve seen Hannah many times in the past year. Me, myself, my father at our house. I’ve pictures if you wanna see them,” Collin, 22, said during the Thursday, October 22, appearance on The View. “All families are very complicated, and that statement sounded like a lot of the words my mother—especially the last part.”

He went on to say that he believes Hannah is “caught in the middle” of the drama between Collin and their mother, Kate Gosselin.

“Nobody deserves that. I know what it’s like to feel like you have to fight to have a relationship with your siblings. I don’t have one with my siblings,” he added. “I know how much that hurts.”

Collin’s remarks come after Hannah, 22, announced she was taking a “step back” from the family drama following news that she, Collin and their father, Jon Gosselin, were set to participate in an upcoming Netflix documentary.

“I haven’t lived with my dad in over a year and haven’t spoken to Collin in close to a year,” she shared via her Instagram Story on Wednesday, October 21. “Having said that, I have had a relationship with my mom and other siblings for quite a few years now.”

Collin added that he believes their mother is “leveraging” finances or sibling relationships over Hannah.

“What I do believe is unfortunately happening,” he continued, “is that—we did film Netflix, we filmed a large part of the documentary already.”

According to Collin, Hannah “opened up about a lot of truth” in her portions of the doc, including “things that she experienced at the hands of [their] mother.”

He added that Hannah is likely trying to do “pre-damage control.”

The upcoming Netflix documentary, which promises to dive into the dark side of Jon & Kate Plus 8, does not yet have a release date.

Janet Jackson is turning heads again, and at 60, the pop icon is proving that her red-carpet style is as memorable as ever. The “Rhythm Nation” singer stepped out in a stunning sheer black lace gown at the Dancers Against Cancer Gala of the Stars in Beverly Hills on October 22, where she presented longtime friend and fellow music legend Missy Elliott with the Icon Award. With her shoulder-length blonde hair and glamorous look, Jackson commanded attention at the star-studded event. Now fans are convinced the pop legend is aging in reverse.

Jackson was every bit the glamorous diva at Thursday’s event, wearing a sheer black lace gown featuring scalloped detailing and a plunging keyhole neckline. Fans called her “beautiful” and “stunning,” while many were quick to notice that time seems to be standing still for Janet Jackson.

“She is literally aging in reverse,” gushed one fan. “She looks incredible.”

Related: Trisha Yearwood, 62, Shows Off Chic New Hairstyle and Slim Figure During Rare New York Red Carpet Appearance

The 2026 Dancers Against Cancer Gala of the Stars took place Thursday at The Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, bringing together some of the biggest names in music, dance and entertainment.

Jackson attended the gala to present longtime friend and music icon Missy Elliott with the evening’s Icon Award for her contributions to music, choreography and performance. Jackson herself received the same award in 2025 and returned this year to honor Elliott.

The gala also honored Toni Basil, the singer and choreographer behind the infectious 1982 hit “Mickey,” and choreographer Vincent Paterson. The annual fundraiser supports dancers, dance educators and their families affected by cancer.

While Jackson’s youthful appearance captured fans’ attention, her presence at the event carried an even more meaningful connection. She and Elliott have collaborated musically, including on “BURNITUP!” from Jackson’s 2015 album Unbreakable.

The evening was about more than a memorable red-carpet moment. It was a celebration of two music icons whose songs, performances and choreography have helped shape pop culture across multiple decades.

Related: 1985 Synth Hit Sung by Husband and Wife Duo From Portland Featuring Wine Bottles as Percussion Named One of the Best One-Hit Wonders of the Decade

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Jack Daniel’s officially recognized Nathan “Nearest” Green as its first master distiller in 2017, giving long-overdue credit to the formerly enslaved man who taught the brand’s founder how to make whiskey decades earlier. 

Green’s skills helped shape the Tennessee whiskey-making process that became closely linked to Jack Daniel’s, but his name had remained largely absent from the company’s public history for more than a century.

The recognition followed renewed research into Green’s life and his connection to Jasper Newton “Jack” Daniel, the founder of the famous American whiskey brand. 

In August 2017, Brown-Forman, the company that owns Jack Daniel’s, added Green to its official website as the distillery’s first head stiller, a term now commonly known as master distiller.

According to Heritage and Horizon, the company also included his story in its visitor tours and added a permanent display at the Jack Daniel’s Visitors Center in October 2017.

Photo by Igor Golovniov/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images

The decision marked an important change in how the brand told its history. While Daniel became famous for the whiskey sold under his name, Green had played a major role in teaching him the craft behind it.

Green was born around 1820 and became known as a skilled whiskey distiller in Lincoln County, Tennessee. Records about his early life remain limited, but historical accounts identify him as an enslaved African American man whose knowledge of distilling was highly valued.

During the 1850s, a young Jack Daniel went to work for Dan Call, a local preacher, grocer and distiller in Lynchburg, Tennessee. Daniel became interested in Call’s whiskey-making operation and learned the trade with Green’s help.

Call reportedly introduced Green to the young Daniel by saying, “Uncle Nearest is the best whiskey maker that I know of.”

Call then asked Green to help train the boy in distilling. According to accounts of their relationship, Green taught Daniel the skills needed to operate a still and make whiskey.

Green was enslaved by a firm known as Landis & Green, which likely hired out his services to Call for a fee. This arrangement allowed people who held enslaved workers to earn money from their skills and labor.

Despite the limited written records of Green’s life, his role as Daniel’s teacher became a central part of the story uncovered by researchers and members of the local community.

One of the most important techniques linked to Green was the Lincoln County Process. This method involves filtering newly made whiskey through sugar maple charcoal before placing it in barrels to age, per History.

The charcoal filtering helps give Tennessee whiskey its smooth character. The process later became a defining feature of the style associated with Jack Daniel’s.

Green’s knowledge helped Daniel develop his skills as a distiller. Their working relationship continued beyond the end of slavery, and Green later worked with Daniel as the younger man built his own whiskey business.

After slavery ended in 1865, Daniel went on to establish his own distilling business. His distillery opened in the years following emancipation, and Green continued working in the whiskey trade.

Daniel hired members of Green’s family, including his sons George and Eli. Other descendants also joined the distillery over time, creating a family connection that lasted for generations.

Seven generations of Green’s descendants reportedly worked for or with the Jack Daniel’s distillery. This long connection helped preserve the family’s link to the brand, even while Green himself received little public recognition for many years.

For much of the 20th century, the company’s public story focused mainly on Daniel and the growth of his whiskey business. Green’s contribution remained largely unmentioned in the brand’s official history.

That began to change in 2016, when The New York Times published an article examining Green’s role in teaching Daniel. The report brought wider attention to a story that had been passed down through local families and discussed by historians.

The renewed interest also drew the attention of Fawn Weaver, a researcher and businesswoman who began investigating Green’s life after visiting the Jack Daniel’s distillery in Tennessee.

Weaver reportedly gathered more than 10,000 documents and historical materials connected to Green and his family. Her research helped bring further attention to Green’s role in the early history of the whiskey brand.

In 2017, Brown-Forman formally recognized Green as the distillery’s first head stiller on its website. The company later added his story to its visitor experience, making his contribution more visible to people learning about Jack Daniel’s history.

The recognition helped establish Green’s place in the story of American whiskey. He is widely described as the first African American master distiller on record in the United States, although historical records from the period remain incomplete.

Weaver also founded the Nearest Green Foundation, which supports efforts to preserve Green’s legacy and provide educational opportunities for his descendants.

In July 2017, a separate whiskey brand named Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey was launched in his honor. The brand was created to recognize Green’s influence on whiskey making and bring his name to a wider audience.

Victoria Eady Butler, Green’s great-great-granddaughter, later became the brand’s master distiller. She is recognized as the first known African American woman to hold that position in the whiskey industry.

Green’s story highlights a part of American whiskey history that went largely unrecognized for generations. His knowledge helped teach a young Daniel the craft of distilling, while his family maintained a connection to the distillery long after his lifetime.

The 2017 recognition did not change the history of how Jack Daniel’s whiskey was made. Instead, it brought greater attention to the person whose skill helped shape that history and gave his name a lasting place in the brand’s story.

Related: In 1951, Rose Totino opened a Minneapolis pizzeria with her husband; 24 years later, she sold Totino’s to Pillsbury for $22 million

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Few shoes have endured quite like the loafer. While it has evolved dramatically over the centuries, it’s one of the few footwear styles that’s truly timeless. The Clarks Zylah Erin Platform Loafer is an excellent option if you’re looking for a modern interpretation that still manages to remain true to the essence of the original style.

It’s also an outstanding value, marked down at Macy’s from the usual $110 to just $66 in either black or tan through Oct. 25. This classic leather shoe has the potential to be one of your wardrobe’s greatest workhorses. It’s beautifully designed with the comfort-forward details that have made Clarks shoes so popular for decades.

Courtesy of Macy's

Even if you’ve never worn a pair of platforms, these may just make you a believer. The heel measures 1.75 inches, a respectably comfortable height that elevates your frame just enough. Every step feels airy and cloud-soft thanks to the brand’s signature Ultra Comfort footbed. The foam absorbs shock on impact with the ground, while the breathable design keeps your feet cool and minimizes strain and pressure.

The thermoplastic rubber outsole is another huge plus point. It’s light and flexible, with deep channeled grooves that provide excellent grip when you’re on the move. It’s a significant detail that sets these loafers apart from other styles that may look great, but don’t offer nearly the same amount of support.

Related: Macy’s ‘Sparkly’ Diamond Bolo Bracelet Is Perfect for Gifting and a Rare 75% Off Ahead of the Holidays

Available in whole and half sizes from 5 to 11, this shoe is a smart and sensible choice for everyday wear. Both colors have contrasting trim above the sole, with distinctive horsebit hardware in an antiqued gunmetal finish serving as an eye-catching focal point. The overall effect is subtle instead of flashy, so the shoes are a great option for both work and weekends.

• Clarks Bayla Lily Riptape Dress Pumps, $66 (were $110) at Macy’s
• Clarks Solevana Clara Booties, $60 (were $100) at Macy’s
• Clarks Breeze Warm Suede Faux Fur Sneakers, $45 (were $75) at Macy’s

A reviewer described this pair as “fabulous” and “super comfortable,” noting that the arch support and cushioned interior “tick all the boxes” for supportive everyday footwear. Given that they’re as lightweight as a pair of flats or sneakers, the Clarks Zylah Erin Platform Loafers could pay for themselves in no time at all. Snap them up for 40% off while they’re on sale at Macy’s!

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Marshall Faulk spent more than a decade running through NFL defenses. It was on the golf course, however, where the Hall of Famer first noticed something wasn’t quite right.

Faulk, 53, revealed that he has been living with Parkinson’s disease for roughly 18 months, opening up about his diagnosis on an episode of The Caring Neurologist podcast with Dr. Sandeep Thakkar.

The former Indianapolis Colts and St. Louis Rams star running back said he first noticed rigidity in his hand after playing or practicing golf for extended periods.

“I just thought it was, you know, normal nerves when putting and stuff like that,” Faulk recalled.

Related: Country-Blues Star Gets Candid About Life After Health Diagnosis: ‘Everything Makes So Much Sense Now’

But the stiffness began happening even when he wasn’t playing competitively. During one of the twice-yearly physicals Faulk says he gets, he brought it up with his doctor, who urged him to get checked.

Faulk ultimately received an early Parkinson’s diagnosis and said medication has helped keep his symptoms manageable.

He still experiences some rigidity and occasional tremors and monitors his gait and balance, but said he remains active and feels he’s “in a good place.”

His diagnosis adds another familiar name to a growing list of former NFL stars facing serious neurological conditions after retirement.

Hall of Fame quarterback Brett Favre revealed in 2024 that he had been diagnosed with Parkinson’s. Former Green Bay Packers running back Ahman Green has since disclosed the same diagnosis, while former Tennessee Titans star Chris Johnson revealed in 2025 that he had ALS.

Research continues to examine the relationship between football and neurological disease. A large 2026 study found former and current NFL players had nearly four times the neurodegenerative-disease mortality of the general population, including elevated mortality from Parkinson’s, ALS and dementia.

Related: Tech Mogul Aiming to Live Forever Reveals Concerning Health Update

The findings show an association and do not establish that the sport that made Faulk a legend caused his individual diagnosis.

For Faulk, the focus now is less on what the diagnosis means for his past and more on managing what comes next.

“It’s something you live with,” he said, comparing it to the knee surgeries and back pain he’s already learned to manage.

After a career built around taking hits, Faulk isn’t treating this diagnosis like the final whistle either.

Today’s NYT Strands puzzle is all about words describing people who are overly curious about others’ business, from nosy and prying to snoopy, inquisitive and eavesdropping.

Move over, Wordle, Connections, Connections Sports Edition, and Mini Crossword—there’s a new NYT word game in town! The New York Times‘ recent game, “Strands,” is becoming increasingly popular as another daily activity fans can find on the NYT website and app.

With daily themes and “spangrams” to discover, this is the latest addictive game to cross off your to-do list before a new one pops up 24 hours later.

We’ll cover exactly how to play Strands, hints for today’s Spangram, and all of the answers for Strands #964 on Friday, October 23.

The New York Times

According to the New York Times, here’s exactly how to play Strands:

Find theme words to fill the board.

• Theme words stay highlighted in blue when found.
• Drag or tap letters to create words. If tapping, double-tap the last letter to submit.
• Theme words fill the board entirely. No theme words overlap.

Find the “spangram.”

• The spangram describes the puzzle’s theme and touches two opposite sides of the board. It may be two words.
• The spangram highlights in yellow when found.
• An example spangram with corresponding theme words: PEAR, FRUIT, BANANA, APPLE, etc.

Need a hint?

• Find non-theme words to get hints.
• For every three non-theme words you find, you earn a hint.
• Hints show the letters of a theme word. If there is already an active hint on the board, a hint will show that word’s letter order.

If that doesn’t help, here’s a hint for today’s Strands game: MYOB.

Warning: Spoilers ahead!

In today’s puzzle, there are six theme words to find (including the spangram). Here are the first two letters for each word:

• NO
• PR
• SN
• IN
• EA
• BU (SPANGRAM)

Today’s Spangram is mostly diagonal.

Today’s Spangram answer for today’s NYT ‘Strands’ Hints, Spangram, and Answers for Friday, October 23, 2026, is BUSYBODY.

• NOSY
• PRYING
• SNOOPY
• INQUISITIVE
• EAVEDROPPING
• SPANGRAM: BUSYBODY

Related: Today’s NYT ‘Strands’ Hints, Spangram and Answers for Thursday, October 22, 2026

Today’s New York Times Connections puzzle covers qualities of being direct and honest, software and add-ons installed on a computer, variables used in calculating power and words that can precede “tap”.

There’s nothing quite as exhilarating as the feeling of completing the daily New York Times Wordle, Strands, Mini Crossword and Connections Sports Edition word games in one fell swoop. But sometimes that can be easier said than done. If you need help with today’s Connections puzzle, keep reading.

Spoilers ahead! We’ve warned you. We mean it. Read no further until you really want some clues or you’ve completely given up and want the answers ASAP. Get ready for all of today’s NYT ‘Connections’ hints and answers for #1230 on Friday, October 23, 2026.

New York Times

If you’ve been having trouble with any of the connections or words in Friday’s puzzle, you’re not alone, and these hints should definitely help you out. Plus, I’ll reveal the answers further down.

Related: The 26 Funniest NYT Connections Game Memes You’ll Appreciate if You Do This Daily Word Puzzle

1. Speak straight.
2. Add to a Mac or PC.
3. Physics students know this.
4. Touch.

Related: 300 Trivia Questions and Answers to Jumpstart Your Fun Game Night

Ready for the answers? Scroll below this image (the image that represents your very appreciated patience!).

iStock

1. FORTHRIGHT: DIRECT, FRANK, OPEN, VOCAL
2. THINGS YOU INSTALL ON A COMPUTER: DRIVER, EXTENSION, PLUGIN, UPDATE
3. QAUNTITIES IN A FORMULA FOR POWER: DISTANCE, FORCE, POWER, TIME
4. ___TAP: DOUBLE, LOVE, PHONE, SPINAL

How’d you do?

Up Next:

– 15 Fun Games Like Connections to Play Every Day
– Hints, Clues and Answers to the NYT’s ‘Mini Crossword’ Puzzle

Did You Miss a Few Days? Let’s Catch You Up With Recent Connections Answers

Related: NYT ‘Connections’ Hints, Clues and Answers Today, Thursday, October 22, 2026

Celine Dion’s real estate portfolio showcases ultra-luxurious properties, including her oceanfront estate on Florida’s Jupiter Island, which she and her late husband, René Angélil, expanded in 2008 by purchasing an adjacent lot for $7 million. The couple had purchased the original property in 2005 for $12.5 million. After several years, the iconic singer made a huge splash by selling it for $28 million.

Following the French-Canadian hitmaker’s massive Taking Chances World Tour in the same year, the couple continued developing their expansive Florida property in one of the state’s exclusive residential communities, which is also home to a number of celebrities.

Two years after the acquisition, they completed construction of the estate.

Dion opted for a custom-built, Bahamian-inspired estate that included a custom water park.

Toni Anne Barson/Getty Images

The couple had always dreamed of owning an enormous estate where they could welcome their big extended family, as reported on Oprah’s website.

According to the singer, she feels happiest when her home is filled with family, sometimes welcoming 30 or more relatives.

Dion’s Jupiter Island estate featured a nearly 10,000-square-foot main house with five side pavilions, including several guest houses, a tennis house that doubles as a basketball court, a simulated golf range, a beach house with a sleeping loft and a water park.

These amenities allowed their guests to enjoy a variety of activities in the couple’s private backyard.

“That space, that lot, that beach, those pools are [for] when we get together as a family, everybody can have a grandiose time with each other,” the “My Heart Will Go On” hitmaker told the publication, adding, “Everybody can soak in.”

Moreover, the Florida estate had a personal touch, as the Grammy winner’s son designed a tree house with a slide.

When discussing her water park mansion, the 58-year-old icon revealed that she drew inspiration from magazines when designing her dream home.

“I buy a lot of magazines,” Dion shared. “And I have a lot of dream files [of] … the best jewelry, the best homes, best babies, whatever.”

After nine years, Dion sold the spectacular Florida estate for $28 million in 2017.

Initially listed for $72 million in 2013, the property was among the most expensive listings in the state. However, it ultimately sold for far less than its original asking price.

According to Joseph Montanaro, the broker for Dion’s Montreal property, the singer was selling her Florida estate, which had served as her home base before moving to Las Vegas, because “she’s not in Florida much anymore either,” according to CNBC.

Moreover, the sale came about a year after Dion’s husband passed away on January 14, 2016, at the age of 73, at their Las Vegas home after a long battle with throat cancer.

Related: In 1962, Marilyn Monroe paid $77,500 for a 2,900-square-foot Los Angeles house; a trust bought it in 2023 and filed to demolish it, and today it is a city historic monument

To solve today’s NYT Wordle puzzle, you’ll have to think about a bird’s warbling song, a rapid series of notes or slang for an enormous amount of money.

But the day just isn’t complete until I’ve solved all of the free word games from the New York Times, including Connections, Connections Sports Edition, Strands, and Mini Crossword. If you’re stuck on today’s Wordle answer, we’re here to help—but beware of spoilers for Wordle #1952 ahead.

Let’s start with a few hints.

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There is one vowel in today’s Wordle.

Today’s Wordle begins with a consonant.

There is one double letters in today’s Wordle.

Think: Can mean a rapid, alternating movement between two musical notes.

OK, that’s it for hints—I don’t want to totally give it away before revealing the answer!

Related: 16 Games Like Wordle To Give You Your Word Game Fix More Than Once Every 24 Hours

We’ll have the answer below this friendly reminder of how to play the game.

SPOILERS BELOW—do not scroll any further if you don’t want the answer revealed.

The New York Times

Today’s Wordle answer on Friday, October 23, 2026, is TRILL.

-If you missed it, catch up with the answer to yesterday’s Wordle.

Related: Every 5 Letter Word Wordle Hasn’t Used Yet (Updated Daily)

Celebrities gathered at Belmont University’s Fisher Center for the Performing Arts in Nashville, Tennessee, to honor Dolly Parton’s life and legacy during CMA Presents I Will Always Love You: A Celebration of Dolly Parton, a two-hour special, benefiting Parton’s Imagination Library. The event aired Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2026, on ABC and Disney+. 

Among the stars taking part in the tribute was Ashley McBryde. 

During the special, McBryde put her own personal spin on Parton’s 1971 country classic “Coat of Many Colors,” which inspired the 2015 television film of the same name. In her performance, McBryde delivered the timeless tune with a heartfelt approach, allowing the lyrics to tell the story of a young girl whose mother sews her a coat from scraps of fabric. Although the other children tease the girl for wearing the coat, she proudly embraces it, recognizing the love her mother stitched into every piece. 

With her hair falling in loose curls and an acoustic guitar in hand, McBryde brought the song’s poignant story to life with an earnest delivery, earning cheers from the audience. 

Written solely by Parton, “Coat of Many Colors” was released as a single in 1971 and served as the second single from the album of the same name. The song reached No. 4 on Billboard’s U.S. Hot Country Singles chart, becoming one of Parton’s best-known recordings. Since its release, “Coat of Many Colors” has continued to be beloved by fans and recognized by several publications, including earning the No. 46 ranking on Rolling Stone’s list of “200 Greatest Country Songs of All Time.” 

Parton died on Aug. 25, 2026, at age 80, following a brief battle with cancer. Her passing prompted an outpouring of tributes from fellow artists who celebrated her influence in country music. 

“I can’t think of any artist, male or female, that wasn’t influenced or mentored in some way by Dolly,” McBryde reflected in an interview with CBS News following Parton’s death. “For some of us, it was her performance style. Her stage banter had a lot to do with my stage banter as I grew into a performer. Her songwriting was so influential, and whether it was something about our attire or the way that we carried ourselves, Dolly wasn’t just a building block of what we do for a living, she was the pedestal that we would try to strive for.” 

Reba McEntire, Carrie Underwood, Little Big Town, Lady A, Lainey Wilson, Kelsea Ballerini, Darius Rucker, Zac Brown, Carly Pearce, Amy Grant, Vince Gill, Brad Paisley, and Ashley McBryde were among the other artists who paid tribute to Parton during the broadcast. 

Related: 1973 Country Classic, Ranked Among the ‘Greatest Songs of All Time,’ Reimagined by Ella Langley in Honor of Dolly Parton

Dolly Parton’s sister, Stella Parton, has been vocal about her political beliefs leading up to the midterm elections. So much so that the younger Parton sister hinted that she’s received death threats.

“One day when this nightmare is over and all these vicious and incompetent people are no longer in power, I hope we can set down and have kind and respectful conversations about the only thing that truly matters and that’s the care and safety of the children we will be leaving in charge of this planet,” Stella shared via Facebook on Thursday, October 22. “I can’t believe in my last years of life we have such horrible people in charge of this beautiful experiment called; The United States of America.”

She went on to say that Dolly’s “heart was broken” over the state of the country, adding, “But she respected my work. We just worked differently.”

“She would be concerned about me today, when my life was threatened, just like she used to be concerned when I raced cars in celebrity races,” Stella wrote.

Stella’s remarks come after she made headlines earlier this week for exposing “hiccups” with the voting machines in Tennessee.

The singer — who lost her sister Dolly on August 25 — reported that, while early voting in her home state of Tennessee, the automatic machines “kept defaulting” her vote to the Republican candidate, Marsha Blackburn.

“I had to go back three times and correct my vote,” she explained. “I would never vote for [Blackburn] for anything. I’m putting this out here because when we vote, we take it seriously but we try not to hold up the long lines. Do it anyway. Don’t let them rig this election.”

While the late “I Will Always Love You” artist never publicly discussed politics, Stella has been a vocal opponent of the Trump administration.

“Remember, if you vote Red you are supporting pedophilia,” she wrote earlier this week. “Take a look at the Epstein friends in our government! Just ask yourself; ‘what would Jesus do?'”