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When it comes to food, some items seem to rely on good marketing. But they don't always benefit your health, even if the front of a food container says things like "natural" or "great source of vitamin C." For instance, orange juice can still spike your blood sugar. Truly healthy foods don't need clever buzzwords or catchphrases.

"Whole foods like fruits, vegetables, healthy fats and animal and plant proteins don’t need a 'health halo' because they’re naturally nutrient-rich," states Theresa Link, RD, a registered dietitian at Virta Health. "Processed foods, on the other hand, often use marketing to make them seem healthier than they are."

Link says you'll want to pay close attention to the real deal about the food you eat before you turn in for the night. "Before bed, these highly processed foods can impact sleep, so it’s helpful to know what you’re actually eating," she explains.

Speaking of which, is there a good time to close the kitchen before bedtime? "There isn’t a hard and fast rule when it comes to closing the kitchen before bed," explains Amanda Sauceda, MS, RD, a registered dietitian. "Ideally, you want to stop eating a couple of hours—two to three—before you lie down. People may be surprised to know that food stays in your stomach for up to three hours before it moves on to digestion, which is actually a major site of digestion."

Regardless of when you eat before bedtime, dietitians agree that there's a "healthy" dinner staple that is actually one of the worst things you can choose. Here's what it is, along with some sleep-supportive alternatives to try.

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Registered dietitians discourage eating high-sodium soup before bed, even though it has a "healthy" reputation. Experts say its high salt content can lead to unpleasant issues that can keep you up at night, like acid reflux—yuck.

To be clear, though, soup is not off the table. You can absolutely have certain soups for dinner.

"I am one of soup’s biggest fans," Sauceda tells Parade. "Soup is a healthy option because it’s a great way to get protein, healthy fat and fiber all in one bowl. Whether you’re choosing a vegetarian soup or not, you can get a variety of fiber-rich foods that support your gut microbiome, and since it’s cooked, it’s easier on your digestion."

But Sauceda warns that "not all soups are created equal."

"Canned soup can be quite high in sodium, low on veggies and the protein is often lacking," she explains. "It's not a balanced meal."

The sodium content is at the heart of many of the issues registered dietitians raise about eating some soups pre-bedtime.

"Ending your day with a food with that amount of sodium can easily put you over your daily recommended amount of sodium," Sauceda explains. "If you were to follow the American Heart Association’s daily limit of 1,500 mg of sodium, a single can would be 50% of your daily intake."

"Having too much sodium in your diet is concerning for your heart because a high salt intake can contribute to blood pressure concerns," Sauceda adds. "The DASH diet, which is designed to help reduce blood pressure, emphasizes a reduction in salt while also increasing potassium-rich foods, which can improve blood pressure."

As comforting as a piping hot bowl of soup can be in the moment, registered dietitians point out that you may have some "eater's remorse" later, especially if you're eating it close to bedtime.

"Many soups can also contribute to bloating, especially if they contain added preservatives or large amounts of salt, which can make it harder to fall asleep comfortably," reports Dr. Chris Mohr, Ph.D., RD, the fitness and nutrition advisor for Garage Gym Reviews.

And that bloating or feelings of over-fullness can have a ripple effect on your digestive system—and sleep. "A full stomach puts pressure on your esophagus, increasing the chance of reflux, which can disrupt sleep," Link explains.

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

There's no precise guideline on how much sodium your body can handle pre-bedtime. Instead, the registered dietitians we spoke with pointed back to the American Heart Association's guidance to limit your daily sodium intake to 2,300 mg. With that in mind, Dr. Mohr says, "For dinner, somewhere in the 500 to 700 mg range is a solid target for most people. It keeps you from loading up on too much sodium at one time. Going lighter at night can also help with things like thirst or waking up during the night."

Sauceda gives a slightly higher maximum mark, explaining, "The daily value of sodium is 2,300 mg, and if you were to divide that evenly per meal, that would be roughly 765 mg. Of course, if you’re following the American Heart Association’s daily limit, that would be even lower."

TL;DR: Using the American Heart Association's guidance and your own body's signals, find a nighttime sodium sweet spot for yourself. Ensure that it's not putting you over the general recommended limits (or your doctor's recommendation based on your unique health).

Related: Here’s Exactly What Happens to Your Blood Pressure When You Eat Yogurt

It's possible to have a satisfying dinner and dreamy sleep. The key is to pick foods that digest well and nourish your body. Below, Sauceda shares three alternatives to high-sodium soup at night.

Yep. We're going there. "You can still have soup," Sauceda assures Parade. "You can make it work for you by choosing a lower-sodium option and/or reducing your portion size."

She advises adding extra veggies and protein to the soup to ensure it's a balanced meal.

"This is where last night’s leftover chicken would work perfectly," Sauceda dishes. "Alternatively, you can also make your own soup where you’ve controlled how much salt you've added. You can make a quick soup using store-bought low-sodium broth."

Grain bowls that "check the boxes" include protein, fat and fiber, Sauceda says.

"The fiber can come from your grain base," she notes. "I also like to add beans or chickpeas. For your next layer, think non-starchy veggies like greens or mushrooms. Top it off with your protein of choice and add a drizzle of olive oil for some healthy fats."

Bookmark this one for a cold day—or just have it on a busy summer evening. You're the menu crafter in your own life!

"If you still want something that’s easier on the stomach, like soup, then consider using a slow cooker," Sauceda suggests. "Slow cooking your dinner means you come home to a meal that’s ready to go, and you don’t have to worry about eating too late. Additionally, slow-cooking your food makes it softer and easier on the gut." 

Up Next:

Related: ‘I’m a Cardiologist, and This Is the One Snack I Refuse To Eat'

• Amanda Sauceda, MS, RD, a registered dietitian
• Theresa Link, RD, a registered dietitian at Virta Health
• Dr. Chris Mohr, Ph.D., RD, the fitness and nutrition advisor for Garage Gym Reviews
• In brief: How does the stomach work? National Library of Medicine.
• Shaking the Salt Habit to Lower High Blood Pressure. American Heart Association.
• DASH Eating Plan. National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute.

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The items around your home that you use most often are also the ones that usually need to be replaced on a fairly regular basis. Chief among them are everyday linens like sheets, towels, and dishcloths, which can succumb to stains and other wear and tear over time. If your current kitchen rags have seen better days, Walmart has a high-quality set on sale at a fantastic price.

The set of six Homieway 100% Cotton Kitchen Dish Cloths is now as low as $9 with a limited-time Walmart flash deal that drops the usual $17 price by 47%. Available in eight colors ranging from neutral beige and basic black to vibrant hues like red and orange, the set is finished with white contrast stitching that gives it a farmhouse vibe. The mixed color set is the best deal at $9, and all other colors are just a few dollars more at $11. 

Courtesy of Walmart

These versatile 100% cotton dishcloths feature a high-density terry weave that makes them super soft, absorbent, and odor-resistant. Whether you’re drying pots and pans, wiping down countertops, or polishing glassware, their scratch-free and lint-free surface makes them an efficient choice for any kitchen task. Several shoppers mentioned that they also used them in their bathrooms for cleaning and showering. 

It's worth noting that some reviewers were expecting these dishcloths to be larger in size. They measure 12-by-12 inches, which is a standard washcloth size. However, the same design is available in a 13-by-25-inch hand towel size on sale for $15 (normally $19), should you need to refresh your kitchen towels.

The dishcloths arrive vacuum sealed, but shoppers said they fluff up nicely after a quick wash. Several reviewers mentioned that they don't shrink, fade, or fray even after washing and drying multiple times. To maintain their fluffy texture and absorbency, avoid using bleach, machine wash in cold water, and tumble dry on low.

Related: Walmart's 'Sturdy' $37 5-Tier Bookshelf Is a 'Beautiful' Way to Keep Small Spaces Organized

Shoppers said the 100% cotton fabric is "excellent quality," noting its ability to absorb spills and clean up kitchen messes without staining. One reviewer said they have an "elegant" look that sets these apart from basic dishcloths. 

Another customer mentioned that they've purchased multiple sets in order to decrease their use of paper towels with a more environmentally friendly option. "They're so perfect," they raved.

• Astercook 6-Piece Kitchen Knives Set, $18 (was $120) at Walmart
• Foukus Glass Jar Storage Container Set, $24 (was $40) at Walmart
• Gped 48-Piece Wheat Straw Dinnerware Set, $20 (was $80) at Walmart

If your kitchen linens could use an upgrade, the $9 Walmart flash deal on the Homieway 100% Cotton Dish Cloths makes now the best time to snag a set. With the option to stock up in eight different colors, it's an affordable way to give your kitchen a functional, farmhouse-inspired refresh.

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The 1980s are known for the incredible movies released in the era, specifically thrillers.

The publication Colliderrecently released a list of the 9 greatest thrillers of the decade. The ranking, published on April 2, featured suspenseful '80s films like Blue Velvetfrom 1986, The Killer, released in 1989, After Hours from 1985, and 1981'sThief.

The 1980 film The Long Good Friday secured the list's top spot. According to Collider, the John Mackenzie-directed movie deserved the title of the best '80s thriller due to Bob Hoskins' incredible portrayal of British gangster Harold Shand and its well-crafted script, inspired by true events.

The Long Good Friday has a score of 97 percent on Rotten Tomatoes.

Collider reported that The Long Good Friday was actor Pierce Brosnan's first movie. In a 2006 behind-the-scenes interview, Brosnan suggested he didn't audition for his role as an IRA hitman. According to the actor, he received a call from his "first film agent," who let him know he had about "3 days' work on a film called The Long Good Friday."

Brosnan said he wasn't sent the script but knew his character didn't have any dialogue. The GoldenEye star also noted that his character holds Shand at gunpoint in a car in the film's infamous final shot. Brosnan shared that he didn't actually film with Hoskin for the iconic scene. Instead, his scene partner was the movie's cinematographer Phil Méheux.

"Bob Hoskins gets whisked away and then I show up in the front seat, popping up with the gun. Welcome to the world of film, I showed up to shoot the sequins Bob Hoskins wasn't there. Phil Méheux was in the back with the camera and lights, John McKenzie driving, and me giving my best smile of malevolence," said Brosnan in the 2006 interview.

Brosnan also shared he didn't anticipate the scene to become so memorable.

"I was completely ignorant. I didn't realize that it was going to be such a cinematic moment," said the Irish actor, now 72.

Rita Wilson is a woman who knows what she wants.

During her Sound of a Woman: Rita Wilson in Conversation with Demi Moore event at 92NY in New York City, the Asteroid City disclosed the two requests she has for her husband, Tom Hanks, if she were to pass away first.

PEOPLE reported, "One, is that you should be sad for a very, very long time," she said of the first. As for the second request, she mentioned Hanks should "throw her a party." "I want it to be a celebration of life. I want it to be about people telling stories and joy and remembering me in that way. And I think people, a lot of people want that, you know? I think there's room for that."

Wilson went on to say to Moore and fans that her two petitions for Hanks are embedded in her 2019 song, "Throw Me a Party." She revealed, "The song... it came out of this, this story I've told before, but you haven't heard it, it was, when you get the diagnosis, and you're like, 'I don't know, I don't know what's gonna happen, but I hope I'm still here, you know, in a few years.' But I said to Tom... 'Okay, if something happens and I go first, I just have two requests.'"

In 2015, Wilson received her breast cancer diagnosis, and since 2025 has been cancer-free. In 2021, she told Parade in an exclusive interview about some of the struggles she faced and pivotal thoughts she dealt with amid her cancer battle. "It didn't really hit me until about four months later," she began. "When you're going through something like that, you're really focused on just getting through it. I experienced a lot of anxiety at that time, because you let it wash over you. I went back into my mindfulnessmeditation and just tried to stay centered."

"When you're going through something like cancer, you have to speak up. And sometimes it's really hard to speak because you don't want to confront the feelings that you're having yourself — and verbalizing them can make them real or scary. But I would encourage people to just talk about it when possible and not live with fear or anxiety," she added.

Wilson's latest solo album,Sound of a Woman, is scheduled for release on May 1.

Daniel Day-Lewis, the iconic Academy Award-winning actor, turns 69 years old today.

Born on April 29, 1957 in Kensington, London, Lewis developed a love for performance at an early age. At only 13 years old, he secured his first acting gig as an uncredited extra in the 1971 film Sunday Bloody Sunday, where got to vandalize cars for £2 a day. Throughout the rest of his young adulthood, Lewis honed his passion through stage work before making the tradition to film in the '80s.

His big break came in the mid-'80s after landing acclaimed roles in the 1985 film My Beautiful Laundrette and the 1986 movie A Room with a View. These early feature roles helped establish him in Hollywood as a serious character actor, a reputation he would later solidify through significant industry honors.

ohn Barr/Liaison

Throughout his career, Lewis has appeared in over 20 films. Some of his most notable works include My Left Foot (1989), Gangs of New York (2002), There Will Be Blood (2007) and Lincoln (2012) and Phantom Thread (2017). His roles in My Left Foot, There Will Be Blood and Lincoln all earned him the Academy Award for Best Actor, a triumph unmatched by any other lead actor in Hollywood history.

His six-decade-spanning career has been widely praised by fans and critics alike. To this day, he remains one of the most decorated performers in history. In total, Lewis has earned four BAFTAs, three Academy Awards, three Screen Actors Guild Awards and two Golden Globe Awards. His legacy continues to endure as a disciplined artist dedicated to his craft as a method actor.

Related: Beloved ’90s Actor, Whose Career Spanned 36 Years, Turns 68

Global best-selling author Harlan Coben has landed yet another Netflix adaptation. And it marks the second one for his 2007 mystery thriller, The Woods.

The latest partnership with the author comes with the British version that will star Based on a True Story’s Tom Bateman and another Coben-inspired series lead, Michelle Keegan, from Fool Me Once.

Additionally, Mandeep Dhillon, Pearce Quigley and Rade Sherbedgia will all appear in the adaptation.

It's a little confusing, as The Woods was previously adapted by Netflix in Poland just a few years ago, with the six-episode series premiering in the summer of 2020.

“Evidence found on the body of a homicide victim sparks hope in a prosecutor that his sister who disappeared 25 years earlier could still be alive,” the synopsis for the limited series read, which garnered a score of 6.6 from viewers, with many calling it a “solid series.”

Screenrant called the Polish-language production, set across two timelines, a “masterful example of non-linear storytelling” that has a “gripping, twist-filled nature of the source material.”

The newest limited series adaptation, which will span a total of 8 episodes, was written by Danny Brocklehurst and comes on the heels of many massive hits like the aforementioned Fool Me Once (the ninth most-popular English-language TV show ever, per Variety) and Run Away.

Related: Reese Witherspoon’s Debut Novel Is a Twisty Thriller With a Famous Author—and Already Has Michael J. Fox's Seal of Approval

As for why The Woods is getting another adaptation, it remains one of Coben's "most personal novels," despite being published nearly 20 years ago on April 17, 2007.

“Like the story’s hero, Paul Copeland, I worked as a counselor at a sleepaway camp when I was too young for the job,” he told Tudum. 

As for what viewers can expect from the newest version, it’s being described as “a chilling mystery with a romantic core.”

The Woods will focus on the mystery of Paul ‘Cope’ Copeland’s sister, Camille, who vanished from a summer camp in the woods 20 years ago, leaving a family torn apart by the loss.

“Now a top barrister and devoted single father to ten-year-old daughter Cami,” Cope has rebuilt his life, but it all begins unraveling when the body of a man supposedly murdered alongside his sister turns up.

“Cope becomes convinced his sister may have made it out of the woods alive too. Determined to uncover the truth, Cope begins a search for answers, unearthing years of lies, cover-ups, and family secrets that threaten to destroy everything he has built,” the synopsis continues. 

There is currently no premiere date, though the show currenty in production in the UK.

The #1 New York Times bestselling author has 14 titles produced for Netflix, according to Tudum, working alongside screenwriters around the world, and across four languages so far.  

One of the most successful mystery writers of the past three decades, Coben has sold over 75 million books worldwide, with his breakout hit, Tell No One, The Innocent, Gone for Good and the recent bestseller, The Boy from the Woods, among some of his most successful titles. 

Related: Best-Selling Author’s Novel Named Best Mystery by the ‘Master of Domestic Suspense’

Greenland has recently made headlines after opening its brand-new airport in Qaqortoq in the southern fjords, a move that is transforming access to one of the world's most remote destinations. Alongside this development, tourism officials have been stepping forward with an important message to American travelers amid geopolitical tensions and heightened curiosity surrounding Greenland's future.

For years, getting to Greenland required complicated travel routes, often involving multiple layovers through Denmark or Iceland. And getting around Greenland required traveling by boat or helicopter, making travel slow, limited, and weather-dependent. Now, with new airports opening, the country is becoming significantly easier to reach. This infrastructure expansion is part of a larger plan to grow tourism in a controlled, sustainable way while still preserving the environment and culture that make Greenland so unique.

Related: South Greenland Just Got Easier To Visit, and This Is Why You Should Go

The Qaqortoq airport, which opened on April 16, marks a major milestone for South Greenland, becoming the first large airfield in the region's fjord system. It joins Nuuk Airport, which began handling international jet traffic in November 2024 after a runway extension and major upgrades that replaced its previous limitations to smaller propeller aircraft and minimal security infrastructure. Further north, Ilulissat Airport is scheduled to open in October, continuing the country's push to modernize air travel and make remote Arctic regions more accessible than ever before.

Despite political noise—especially surrounding Donald Trump's comments about acquiring Greenland—tourism authorities have been clear and consistent in their message: Visitors from the United States are not only accepted but welcomed.

Visit Greenland and regional tourism leaders have emphasized that travelers should not feel discouraged by politics. Instead, they are encouraged to experience the country firsthand, engage with local communities, and understand Greenland beyond the headlines.

This week, Visit Greenland told Afar that it plans to "continue to welcome international guests, including from the U.S."

At the same time, officials are careful to manage expectations. Greenland is not trying to become a mass tourism destination. Instead, the focus is on "balanced growth," where visitor numbers are increased gradually, and infrastructure can keep pace. Many communities are small, and tourism is designed to support local economies without overwhelming daily life.

Travelers are also reminded that visiting Greenland is very different from visiting a typical tourist spot. It is a destination defined by vast landscapes, small settlements, and limited transportation options between them. Visitors often travel by plane, boat, or helicopter, and experiences tend to be intimate and community-based rather than commercial or fast-paced.

What stands out most from tourism officials is the tone of openness. They want Americans—and all international visitors—to feel that Greenland is accessible, safe, and welcoming. The message is simple: Come with curiosity, respect, and patience, and you'll be embraced by a place that is as culturally rich as it is geographically extraordinary.

Related: United Is Resuming Its Summer Service to the World’s Northernmost Capital

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If you’re working with limited space or like to host overnight guests, a sofa bed can be a game changer. Instead of dedicating an entire room to a bed that’s rarely used, you can have a functional seating area by day and a sleeping setup by night. It’s a smart solution for apartments, small homes, or anyone who wants to make the most of their space.

There are plenty of modern options that are both comfortable and stylish without costing a fortune. One standout pick is the Amada Homefurnishing 66-Inch Corduroy Sofa Bed. It’s currently on sale for 45% off at Target, bringing the price down from $320 to just $176. 

Courtesy of Target

In terms of size, it’s designed to be practical without feeling bulky. It supports up to 500 pounds, making it sturdy enough for daily use. When set up as a sofa, it measures 66.1 inches long, 30.7 inches tall, and 20.8 inches wide. When fully extended into a bed, it expands to 66.1 inches long, 18.9 inches tall, and 39.4 inches wide, giving guests a comfortable place to sleep.

Setup is simple and straightforward, which is always a plus with larger furniture pieces. The sofa comes with clear instructions and all the necessary tools, allowing you to assemble it in about 30 minutes. The cushions arrive vacuum-packed and regain their full shape within 72 hours. One shopper highlighted the “easy assembly, fast shipping, and smooth adjustable backrest and armrest,” adding, “Overall I really love it!”

Comfort is a big part of what makes this sofa bed stand out. It features soft elastic memory foam combined with high-resilience sponge for balanced support. The corduroy fabric adds a cozy texture while also being durable enough for everyday use. It feels soft to the touch and holds up well against regular wear, making it a reliable choice for both sitting and sleeping.

Related: Walmart's 'Super Comfy' $117 Linen Accent Chair Has an 'Expensive Look' That Shoppers Love

The adjustable design makes it even more versatile. The armrests are adjustable to five different positions, so you can customize them for extra support while sitting or lounging. The backrest has three positions: 105 degrees for upright seating, 160 degrees for relaxed lounging, and a full 180 degrees flat position for sleeping. This flexibility makes it easy to switch between uses throughout the day.

It’s especially well suited for smaller spaces where every piece of furniture needs to work harder. Whether you place it in a living room, home office, or studio apartment, it fits in without overwhelming the room. It’s also a great alternative to air mattresses when guests stay over, offering a more stable and comfortable experience.

The construction adds to its long-term value. A solid wood frame and reinforced support legs provide stability you can rely on. Combined with the durable upholstery and supportive cushioning, it’s built to handle regular use without losing its shape or comfort over time.

• Dyonery Corduroy Loveseat Sofa, $300 (was $400) at Target 
• Costway Foldable Floor Sofa Bed, $140 (was $460) at Target
• Tyboatle Morden Linen Sofa Couch, From $290 (was $439) at Target

If you’re looking for a practical upgrade that doesn’t sacrifice style, the Amada Homefurnishing 66-Inch Corduroy Sofa Bed checks all the boxes. It’s comfortable, easy to use, and thoughtfully designed for everyday living. With the current 45% discount, you can save nearly $150, making now a great time to bring home a piece that truly pulls double duty.

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Sam Neill, largely known for his role in the cult classic film Jurassic Park, revealed an update on his cancer journey. The actor has been battling blood cancer for several years, and announced he's now cancer-free.

The 78-year-old actor shared the good news during an interview with Australian network 7News this past Sunday. Having been diagnosed with stage 3 blood cancer, Neill explained that it was "miserable business" as the chemotherapy was keeping him alive. Sadly, the treatment stopped working, with the actor "at a loss and it looked like I was on the way out, which wasn’t ideal obviously."

Having battled one of cinema's biggest on-screen monsters, Neill wasn't ready to give up. The actor started a clinical trial for a type of CAR-T therapy. The treatment works to modify a person's blood cells to create a form of immunotherapy where the immune cells begin to attack and fight off the cancerous ones. CAR-T therapy is also being used as a clinical trial for myeloma, another form of blood cancer.

It appears that the treatment has worked, as Neill shared, "I’ve just had a scan just now, and there is no cancer in my body, that’s an extraordinary thing."

The actor posted the interview on Instagram with his own caption detailing his cancer journey. He admitted to not having be comfortable with talking about his cancer, with the new treatment causing them to "sail into uncharted waters."

"No one knew exactly what we could expect. I think I was first out of the block, and I think the term for me was “Patient Zero”. From now on, please address me as Mr Zero!" he wrote.

Neills goes on to thank the medical team behind his treatment, and doesn't call it a miracle, but "science at its best." He now advocates for the clinical trial treatment and similar ones like it, hoping it will be available to anyone who needs it worldwide. The actor was diagnosed in 2022 when noticing swollen glands while doing press for Jurassic World Dominion. Tests confirmed he had angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma.

While having once accepted the possibility of death, Neill now jokes it may be time for him to star in a new movie.

Related: Roger Sweet, Original Creator of 1980s He-Man Character, Dead at 91

Based on the 1964 autobiography, The Last Emperor is a 1987 sweeping biopic centering Pu Yi, the last emperor of China. The film follows Pu Yi's life from infancy to his ascent to the throne of the country as its last monarch, ultimately resulting in his time in prison and political rehabilitation by the Chinese Communist Party. John Lone starred in the film which would go on to be the first Western movie authorized by the People's Republic of China to film in Bejing in the Forbidden City.

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While the film was technically a commercial success by most standards earning $44 million upon its international theatrical release, the number was significantly lower compared to other films of the time. Additionally, the movie cost over $25 million to produce making it barely break even against that and marketing costs according to Screenrant. Ticket sales for The Last Emperor are credited to its critical acclaim and Academy Award nominations, resulting in making movie goers curious to see it ahead of the ceremony.

Related: 1999 Box Office Flop Became Movie With ‘Most Perfect Ending’

The Last Emperorreceived nine Academy Award nominations and would go on to win all of them including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Adapted Screenplay at the 60th ceremony in 1988. The film also won four Golden Globes, three BAFTAs, and the Grammy award for Best Album Written for a Movie. If not for the increase in interest for the film due to critics and other accolades, The Last Emperor would have been alongside The English Patient, Amadeus, and The Hurt Locker as the only Best Picture winners to not enter the weekend box office top five.

The late Roger Ebert was notably a fan of the film saying in his four out of four review at the time, "In the case of 'The Last Emperor' the narrative cannot be separated from the awesome presence of the Forbidden City, and from Bertolucci's astonishing use of locations, authentic costumes, and thousands of extras to create the everyday reality of this strange little boy."

Related: This Movie Has a 99% Rating—and It’s One of the Most Popular Streams Right Now

When Game of Thrones premiered in April 2011, it redefined the golden age of television. What began as an ambitious adaptation of George R.R. Martin's sprawling fantasy series quickly evolved into a cultural phenomenon that captivated audiences across continents. By the time it concluded in 2019, it had become one of the most talked-about, analyzed, and debated series in television history.

Part of what made Game of Thrones so groundbreaking was its willingness to defy traditional storytelling rules. In an era where audiences were used to clear heroes and villains, the show thrived in moral ambiguity. Characters weren't simply good or evil; they were layered, flawed, and often unpredictable. Protagonists died unexpectedly. Antagonists revealed moments of vulnerability.

Overall, the narrative boldness kept viewers on edge and dismantled the notion of "plot armor," making every episode feel genuinely high-stakes.

Visually, the series raised the bar for what television could achieve, as well. With cinematic production quality, sweeping landscapes, and meticulously designed costumes and sets, it rivaled—and often surpassed—major Hollywood films. Massive battle sequences, like the Battle of the Bastards, were defining moments in visual storytelling. The show demonstrated that television could handle epic scale without sacrificing depth or detail.

But beyond spectacle, Game of Thrones succeeded because of its intricate world-building and political complexity. The struggle for power in Westeros mirrored real-world dynamics—alliances shifting, loyalty being tested, and ambition driving both greatness and destruction. Viewers were watching a fantasy story while engaging with a layered exploration of leadership, legacy, and human nature. It has sparked conversations about governance, ethics, and the cost of power in a way few shows have before.

The cultural impact was immediate and far-reaching. Sunday nights became a global ritual, with millions tuning in simultaneously and social media exploding in real time. Phrases like "Winter is Coming" and "You know nothing" entered everyday language. The series influenced everything from fashion to travel, with filming locations turning into major tourist destinations. It also set new standards for streaming platforms and networks, pushing them to invest in large-scale, high-quality productions to compete.

Game of Thrones became one of the most awarded shows in television history, as well, dominating the Primetime Emmy Awards with a record-breaking 59 wins. It earned Outstanding Drama Series four times (in 2015, 2016, 2018, and 2019) and was widely recognized for acting, directing, writing, and technical achievements. The series also received honors from the Golden Globe Awards, Screen Actors Guild Awards, and Peabody Awards, cementing its legacy as a groundbreaking and critically acclaimed global phenomenon.

Related: 2014 'Game of Thrones' Episode Ranked 'Best of All Time' Has One of the Most Heartbreaking Scenes Ever

Game of Thrones ended in May 2019 after eight seasons, concluding a story that had largely caught up to the unfinished books by Martin. Showrunners David Benioff and D. B. Weiss chose to wrap it up with a shorter final season to bring major storylines to a close. The decision was driven by narrative pacing, rising production demands, and a desire to end the series on their own terms rather than extend it beyond its core arc.

Its final season sparked intense debate, with fans divided over the pacing, character arcs, and narrative choices. Yet even that backlash speaks to its significance. People cared deeply enough to argue, analyze, and revisit every detail. Few series inspire that level of emotional investment.

Regardless, Game of Thrones didn't end the franchise. HBO expanded the world with spin-offs, starting with the prequel House of the Dragon, which premiered in 2022. Set about 200 years before the original series, it focuses on the rise and fall of House Targaryen and the civil war known as the Dance of the Dragons. It's been both a ratings hit and critically well-received.

Meanwhile, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms is another Game of Thrones prequel set about a century earlier, following a wandering hedge knight and his young squire as they navigate a quieter Westeros. It premiered in early 2026.

Beyond House of the Dragon and A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, HBO has continued expanding the Game of Thrones universe with several projects in development. Ten Thousand Ships would follow Princess Nymeria's legendary journey to Dorne, while Aegon's Conquest is now being developed as a feature film about the Targaryen ruler who first united Westeros.

Ultimately, Game of Thrones changed television by proving that audiences are hungry for complexity, scale, and risk. It blurred the line between TV and cinema, elevated genre storytelling, and set a precedent that continues to shape the industry today.

In the late '50s and early '60s, filmmaker Alfred Hitchcock dominated the film industry with his teeth-chattering psychological thrillers. Throughout his golden era, he produced several movies that are still recognized as pioneering forces in the genre.

Rotten Tomatoes ranked the 300 best movies of all time, curating a list stacked with cinema's greatest works. Ranked alongside massively influential films such as Victor Fleming's 1939 movie The Wizard of Oz at No. 49 and John Huston's 1941 movie The Maltese Falcon at No. 41, Hitchcock's 1959 classic North by Northwest secured the No. 45 spot.

Released in the U.S. on July 1, 1959, North by Northwest is considered Hitchcock's 47th feature film. The movie starred big Hollywood names including Cary Grant, Eva Marie Saint and James Mason, with the film marking Grant's fourth collaboration with the esteemed director.

Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer/Getty Images

The film is a classic, fast-paced spy thriller. Hitchcock effortlessly blended intense action scenes, comedic relief and romance to create a highly engaging experience that left audiences awestruck. Today, North by Northwest is still recognized as a pioneering film in the thriller genre and is widely considered one of the first modern action-thrillers.

The 1959 masterpiece follows advertising executive Roger Thornhill as he is relentlessly perused by a group of foreign spies who have mistakenly identified him as George Kaplan, a government agent. During his journey on the run, Thornhill desperately attempts to clear his name while simultaneously nurturing a budding romance with a mysterious woman named Eve Kendall.

The compelling plot of North by Northwest remains an inspiring force in the film industry. Its Rotten Tomatoes score lives up to its enduring legacy as a quintessential action-thriller, with a total of 97%, an impressive feat for a film produced during the height of the Hollywood studio system.

Related: 1975 Hit Film Ranked Among ‘Best Action Movies of All Time’ Was Forced to Change Original Ending

Author Holly Jackson released her latest novel, Not Quite Dead Yet, in July 2025. It was the first book she wrote specifically targeted to an adult audience, and it quickly became a massive hit.

Not Quite Dead Yet soon landed in the top spot on the New York Times hardcover fiction list, and it was chosen as a pick for the Good Morning America Book Club in August 2025. In addition, it also won a Goodreads Choice Award in the “Readers’ Favorite Mystery & Thriller” category for 2025.

The novel is full of twists and turns, and Jackson throws out a big one at the end of the first chapter: the novel’s protagonist dies. The book has a 4.0 rating on Goodreads, with over 192,000 ratings and 34,000 reviews.

The plot of the book revolves around 27-year-old Jet Mason, who is attacked on Halloween. She is badly injured, so much so that her doctor tells her she will surely die of an aneurysm within seven days.

Jet decides she will solve her own murder before she dies.

Reviews on Goodreads indicate that, as expected, Jackson packs Not Quite Dead Yet with surprising twists and turns. As much as readers have come to expect surprises in Jackson’s writing, she shared a light-hearted warning while promoting the book ahead of its release.

While announcing Not Quite Dead Yet as the Good Morning America Book Club pick for August 2025, Jackson teased, “There’s no twist that twists too far. Watch out, you can never trust me, guys.”

In describing her writing process, Jackson explained that she plans all the twists for her novels before sitting down to write. Her approach works.

One reviewer on Goodreads wrote, “I LOVE the concept. Holly Jackson’s most unique and highest stakes book [in my opinion].”

Another shared, “Who thought I would end up sobbing over a murder mystery? Holly, you’re gonna pay for my therapy.”

Someone else admitted, “I just can’t get over the cleverness of this premise.”

Jackson’s first foray into adult fiction has been a big success, but she isn’t done with young adult stories.

During her book club launch with Good Morning America, she said, “Of course,” she will go back to doing more young adult books.

Of the idea of leaving that genre behind her, Jackson quipped, “Betray my roots? Never.”

She added that she thinks she tends to sit “Very uncomfortably at the top of what is acceptable in young adult” novels. Jackson thinks that played a role in what she says was “quite a natural move for me” to write her first adult novel.

Next up for Jackson is the paperback release of Not Quite Dead Yet, which comes out on May 5. In addition, Season 2 of the Netflix adaptation of her book A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder premieres on May 27.

Jackson teases that Season 2 of A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder is “incredibly faithful to the book,” but she’s “had a lot of fun bringing it to life in a way that the book couldn’t ever be.”

There’s something special about a captivating scent that follows you wherever you go, making your presence instantly recognizable when you enter a room—and lingering long after you’ve left.

One revolutionary scent that transformed the fragrance industry is Chanel No. 5, launched in 1987, but originally created in 1921.

The product, described by Chanel as "a timeless, legendary fragrance in a radically minimal bottle," was ranked among WWD's Beauty Inc.'s list of the greatest beauty products of all time, an all-encompassing lineup featuring everything from makeup items to skincare and beyond.

Published in February 2026, the extensive pool of goods is noted as "the definitive roundup of the 100 greatest beauty products as chosen by the people who know best — beauty industry insiders" by the publication.

Chanel No. 5, a fragrance that claims to have "exuded the very essence of femininity" since its inception in the '20s, was the first of its kind. Its claim to fame? A "mysterious scent" that has attracted wearers of all kinds for over a century.

Officially debuting on May 5, 1921, in Coco Chanel's boutique on the Rue Cambon in Paris, the new fragrance "immediately revolutionized the perfume industry and remained popular for a century," per History.com. It is considered by many to be the first modern perfume, "as recognizable and enduring as Chanel’s most famous clothing designs, and the designer herself."

As for its iconic scent notes, it fuses warm tones with floral accents. "With its unprecedented use of aldehydes and layers of complexity, N°5 was the world’s first abstract fragrance. The Eau de Parfum draws inspiration from the original Parfum. This floral bouquet, composed around May rose and jasmine, features bright citrus top notes. Aldehydes create a unique presence, while the smooth touch of bourbon vanilla yields an incredibly sensual sillage," its official description notes.

First developed by perfumer Ernest Beaux, Jacques Polge reinterpreted the classic in 1986 in an attempt "to create a fuller, more voluminous version of the now and forever fragrance: the Eau de Parfum." It is said to be the "epitome of Gabrielle Chanel’s initial request: 'a woman’s perfume, with a woman’s scent,'" according to the brand.

Today, the fragrance is available in several forms, including Eau de Parfum, Eau de Toilette, shower gel, hair mist, hand cream, body cream, body oil, bath soap, deodorant, and more. According to Beauty Inc., it has become "the most famous fragrance in the world" since its launch, with products having sold twice per minute (yes, two Chanel No. 5's purchased every 60 seconds) in December 2025 alone.

Next, These 4 Trending Fragrance Notes Are Taking Over Perfume Right Now

An Affair to Remember was one of the biggest films of 1957. Directed by Leo McCarey and starring Cary Grant and Deborah Kerr, the movie was a remake of the 1939 RKO picture Love Affair and became one of the top-grossing films of 1957. It remains one of the most beloved romance films of Hollywood's Golden Age era.

Decades later, Rotten Tomatoes ranked An Affair to Remember as the saddest movie of all time in a list subtitled “the best sad  movies for a good cry.”  The movie ranked above other sad classics such as On Golden Pond, The Notebook, and even Charlotte’s Web.

Crediting the chemistry between the two Hollywood legends for the success of the tearjerker, Rotten Tomatoes noted, “There's not too much to it besides Cary Grant and Deborah Kerr, but that's still enough to make this An Affair to Remember.”

The Guardian described An Affair to Remember as “a relentlessly heart-tugging tale of two soulmates whose love even great tragedy cannot tear asunder.”

RELATED: 1974 No. 1 Hit Named Among the ‘Saddest Songs of All Time’ Became Heartbreakingly True

An Affair to Remember follows the love story of Nickie Ferrante (Grant) and Terry McKay (Kerr), who meet on a cruise while engaged to other people. Determined to be together, they agree to reunite at the top of the Empire State Building in six months—“The Empire State Building is the closest thing to heaven in this city,” Kerr’s character notes— but a tragedy prevents the meet-up from happening. The tearful final scene is a testament to the couple’s devotion to one another.

McCarey often allowed the stars of his films to improvise their lines on camera, and that was also the case with An Affair to Remember, according to Turner Classic Movies.

The tear-jerker final line was most certainly part of the original script. The outlet noted that Grant would later admit that he always cried when he watched the ending to the film.

An Affair to Remember was nominated for four Academy Awards for Best Original Song (for Vic Damone’s emotional title track), as well as Best Scoring, Best Cinematography, and Best Costume Design.

Decades later, snippets from An Affair to Remember appeared in the 1993 movie Sleepless in Seattle, which ended with Meg Ryan’s character Annie and Tom Hanks’ Sam having a romantic meetup….  at the top of the Empire State Building.

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Dancing with the Stars pro Sasha Farber is putting his new love with Janel Parrish on display.

While fans have been speculating that the two are in a relationship due to their flirty dance videos that have flooded social media recently, his most recent post really sealed the deal.

"I'm the luckiest man in the world," he captioned a video of the two of them doing a dance that ended with a kiss. The clip was also complete with the audio of the romantic song, "Until I Found You" by Stephen Sanchez.

The post, of course, led to an eruption of excitement from the DWTS community and fans alike.

"Holy moly it’s happening," said former DWTS pro Peta Murgatroyd, who commented twice, saying, "Send me wedding invite please."

"Ohhhhhhhhhhh we ainsta [sic] official now!! Honestly y’all are cute af together," fellow dancer Sharna Burgess wrote.

"I love this so much," pro Lindsay Arnold added.

However the best comment of all may have been from Parrish herself when she wrote, "My heart," with heart emojis and a crown emoji.

Related: Fans Are Convinced a 'DWTS' Pro Just Hard Launched a New Romance—and it's With a Former Contestant

Farber also posted a carousel of photos to Instagram on Tuesday where Parrish was giving him a kiss on the cheek. Complete with the caption, "April has been amazing," Parrish responded, "Yes it has" in the comments.

In addition to the several videos and photos they posted of each other in the lead up to making things Instagram-official, the two were also spotted holding hands by paparazzi in Los Angeles over the weekend.

Parrish, who starred in Pretty Little Liars, also competed on DWTS on Season 19 in 2014. She was partnered with Val Chmerkovskiyand came in third place. Farber, for his part, was a part of the show's troupe at the time.

According to TMZ,Parrish separated from husband Chris Long earlier this month after seven years of marriage. The outlet reported that the two have been separate for a few months prior to the news being published.

Farber, for his part, was married to fellow DWTS pro Emma Slater from 2018-2023 and the two remain on good terms.

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With summer just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to start planning outdoor gatherings and adding simple touches that make your patio or garden feel like a getaway. Solar lights are one of the easiest upgrades you can make to your backyard — and Amazon has a popular pick on sale right now.

The Gigalumi Firework Solar Lights are currently priced at $13 for a set of two, down from $19, and they’re already backed by thousands of glowing customer reviews. Shoppers love the sparkling, firework-style effect they add to outdoor spaces. They’re also available in 4-pack, 6-pack, and 8-pack options, making it easy to scale up whether you’re decorating a small patio or a larger yard.

Courtesy of Amazon

Each pack includes two stake lights, and each light features 120 small LEDs arranged along copper wires for a firework-inspired look. Powered by a built-in solar panel, they charge after receiving about 4 to 6 hours of sunlight during the day. They automatically turn on at night, then switch off again in daylight. Once fully charged, they typically run for 8 to 10 hours. 

While the lights are designed to look like fireworks (perfect for Fourth of July celebrations!), you can get creative and bend them into shapes like flowers, hearts, starbursts, or geometric designs. They also work well for year-round decorating, adding a festive touch for holidays like Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s. Plus, the waterproof design means they’ll continue to work even in rainy weather

Related: Amazon’s $12 Solar Light Statue Is an ‘Absolutely Adorable’ Spring Upgrade With Major Cottagecore Vibes

Amazon shoppers can’t get enough of the glow these lights bring. One reviewer shared, “My daughter loves how they look in her backyard,” while another called them “happiness in light form.” A third added that it “gives off a really nice bright twinkle at night like a Fourth of July sparkler.”  

• Sunckett Fairy Garden Solar Lights, $20 (was $25) at Amazon
• Vuees Fairy Moon Solar Garden Statue, $20 (was $39) at Amazon
• Toodour Hanging Solar Lantern, $16 (was $25) at Amazon

At just $13, the Gigalumi Firework Solar Garden Lights are a standout summer deal. Prime members can also take advantage of fast shipping, including next-day delivery in many areas. It’s a budget-friendly find worth grabbing while this Amazon deal is still available. 

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You can stop hoarding airline miles. Most travelers can sympathize: a balance of 12,000 miles stares back from the screen, not enough to get to Paris, barely enough to get to Omaha, and the points sit there, gathering digital dust.

United Airlines and Lyft just blew that frustration apart.

Starting today, United MileagePlus miles can be used like cash in the Lyft app. Far from a a complicated "transfer points and wait three days" procedure, the new partnership is direct and instant. It’s also the first time a U.S. airline and a rideshare giant have let passengers spend miles on the ground as easily as they do in the air.

This move turns stray miles into a ride home from the bar or the airport. Once accounts are linked, the Lyft app provides an option to pay with miles at checkout.

"Every ride should move you forward — in more ways than one," said Jordan Glassberg, VP of Partnerships and Loyalty at Lyft. "Pay with miles means that the miles you've earned on your last rideshare can help get you to your next one."

The system is flexible. Users can cover the whole tab with miles or split the cost. If a ride is $30 and the mileage balance only covers twenty, the rider pays the ten-dollar difference with a card. 

For those who use the rideshare app often, the earning rates are competitive:

• 4 miles per $1 on pre-scheduled airport runs.
• 3 miles per $1 for the premium options (Lyft Black, Black SUV).
• 1 mile per $1 for standard commutes.

The move from United offers travelers rewards on the road, as well as at 30,000 feet. Jarad Fisher, President of United MileagePlus, noted the demand for this flexibility. “We’re giving MileagePlus members more ways to use their miles – whether it’s booking a United flight to a dream destination or traveling across town to meet up with friends through Lyft,” he said.

A traveler earns miles taking a Lyft to the airport, earns more on the flight, and then spends those miles to get to the hotel. The commute helps pay for the weekend.

New riders who link accounts now receive 1,000 bonus miles after two rides. That’s a free ride or two for signing up. Mileage no longer has to expire: grab a ride and let United pick up the check.

Billy Dee Williams has spent six decades in Hollywood, but one story from the making of Star Wars: Return of the Jedi rarely comes up, and he doesn't mind telling it.

In a recent interview, Williams, 89, confirmed something that Star Wars historians have long documented but that few original cast members have addressed directly; George Lucas stepped in and effectively took over Return of the Jedi from its credited director, Richard Marquand.

'George took over,' Williams said flatly. 'I don't know specifically what happened, but I remember George taking over. I think he wasn't delivering the way George wanted him to deliver. I think they had some differences.'

That assessment tracks with what Lucas's own crew has said on record. Marquand, a Welsh filmmaker hired on the strength of his 1981 thriller Eye of the Needle, directed principal photography, but Lucas was a constant presence on set. Special effects supervisor Dennis Muren told StarWars.com that communications on set ran almost entirely through Lucas rather than Marquand. Marquand and his editor Sean Barton delivered a first cut that Lucas rejected, prompting Lucas to take over editing for all subsequent versions of the film. Producer Howard Kazanjian's team confirmed that Lucas felt the cut wasn't working well before it was even screened.

Marquand himself, in a 1984 interview, compared the experience to directing Shakespearewith the playwright in the next room, a gracious framing of a relationship that was, by most accounts, lopsided from the start.

Williams spoke warmly of both men in the same conversation. Of Irvin Kershner, who directed him in The Empire Strikes Back, he was effusive. 'He was wonderful, really good with actors. I'd been watching his work since the '50s.' Kershner, Williams noted, had built his reputation directing New York-based television dramas before becoming what Williams called an 'extraordinary man, full of life.'

Related: 'Failed' Star Wars Show Climbs Back into Disney+ Top 10

Williams also recalled a more tender moment from those years, the last time he saw Carrie Fisher. He had been at a restaurant getting caviar when she walked in, about a week before her death in December 2016. 'I was really surprised when I heard about her demise,' he said. 'She was a wonderful, very talented woman, extraordinarily brilliant mind.' Their relationship on set, he described, was built on sustained silliness, 'a nonsensical kind of relationship' that he clearly treasured.

As for what he'd say to Lucas after all these years, Williams didn't hesitate. 'Thanks, George, for allowing me to work with him, for broadening my horizons, for giving me the opportunity to be Lando Calrissian. It's a very important step in my career.'

He never auditioned for the role, he added. 'I can't stand auditioning. I'm so bad at it. I say, hire me and I'll give you what you want, plus I'll give you more.'

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Although things may seem quiet in the Nancy Guthrie case, the investigation remains active. NewsNation's Brian Entin sat down with one of Guthrie's neighbors, Aldine, who spoke candidly about how residents in the area are feeling now three months into Guthrie's disappearance.

During their chat, Aldine told Entin that law enforcement has been in the neighborhood.

Related: Sheriff’s Department Returns to Annie Guthrie, Tommaso Cioni’s Neighborhood

"They're working really hard to try and solve the case," Aldine said. A bit later in the interview, Entin asked Aldine if there'd been police around. "Oh, for sure," she replied. "We've definitely noticed police presence."

Aldine went on to say that it's a good thing to see law enforcement in the area because many residents are still scared, given the unknown in the case.

Moreover, Aldine expressed sadness over what's happened.

"I think everybody's just sad. We all would love to know what happened," Aldine told Entin. "We think about it not getting solved and...it's a worry for all of us for sure."

Guthrie, 84, was last seen by her daughter, Annie Guthrie, and son-in-law Tommaso Cioni on Saturday, Jan. 31. Investigators believe that she was abducted from her home in the middle of the night, sometime after she returned back from dinner at Guthrie and Cioni's nearby home.

Entin is back in Arizona to film a couple of things for an upcoming special on the Guthrie case that will air on Wednesday, May 6 on the CW. For more on the special, click here.

READ NEXT: Nancy Guthrie's Neighbors Are ‘Uneasy and Concerned’ as Case Nears Fourth Month (Report)