Parade

Subscribe to Parade feed Parade
Your daily destination for celebrity news, videos, entertainment, food, recipes, health tips, fitness, and games from America's most popular magazine.
Updated: 1 hour 31 min ago

1966 Soft Rock Classic, Music Legend’s Debut Single, Took Four Years to Become a Hit

Thu, 06/18/2026 - 8:23am

In the 1960s, Neil Diamond was making his way as a staff songwriter at New York’s famous Brill Building when he was offered his own record deal with Bang Records. His debut album, titled The Feel of Neil Diamond, was released in August 1966, and the first solo single was “Solitary Man.”

Penned by Diamond, the acoustic guitar ballad featured a horn section, shaker percussion, and lyrics about walking alone after a heartbreak. It became one of the music legend’s signature songs.

But “Solitary Man” wasn’t an immediate Top 40 hit. While it received positive attention upon its release, the song didn’t make Billboard’s Top 40 in 1966 and didn’t become a hit until Bang re-released it four years later. The savvy re-release came after Diamond signed a new deal with Uni Records.

Under Bang's label, the re-release of "Solitary Man" went to No. 21 on the Billboard Hot 100 in September 1970.

In 2026, a post on Diamond’s official Facebook page described “Solitary Man” as “the landmark single that introduced the world to one of his most enduring songs” and “a defining part of Diamond’s catalog.”

Neil Diamond elevated his songwriting with ‘Solitary Man’

By 1966, Diamond had already written successful hit songs for other artists, such as “I'm a Believer” for the Monkees, which went to No. 1 that year. But he credited "Solitary Man” as his breakthrough moment as a songwriter.

“’Solitary Man’ was my first song where I tried to really raise the level of my songwriting,” he once told Mojo, per Songfacts. “It was inspired by the Beatles’ song ‘Michelle,’ which was also written in a minor key. I don’t think I’d ever written a song in a minor key before, it was the first and it kind of broke the dam for me.”

Diamond, now 85, has also admitted that his growing maturity as a songwriter became apparent over the past 60 years.

“Over the years, you grow up, you mature, and you see things in a different way, and it's reflected in the writing," he told NPR’s Fresh Air in an interview. "So at this point, my writing is different. I think it's better. I think it's deeper. But, strangely enough, it covers a lot of the old ground. Maybe it says it in a more sophisticated way ... but I [have written] about basically the same subjects over the years."

As for his decision to switch record labels back in his early days, the move was triggered by his desire to write the kind of song he wanted to.

"I changed labels from Bang Records, where I was just owned – in every sense of the word – by the record company,” Diamond told Music Radar in 2026. “I had hits there, and they wanted more. They wanted another 'Cherry, Cherry,' another 'Kentucky Woman,' another 'Girl, You'll Be A Woman Soon.' But my writing was taking a different turn. I wanted to try something different. I said, 'I can't do it anymore.' So I left the label. And they sued me, but I left the label. So I'm with a new label now, and they said, 'You can do anything you want.' So I did.”

Related: The Monkees’ Biggest No. 1 Hit Was Written By a Music Legend You'd Never Expect

Beach Boys’ Forgotten 1977 Song Finally Surfaces After Nearly 50 Years

Thu, 06/18/2026 - 8:21am

A long-lost Beach Boys recording from 1977 has finally surfaced nearly 50 years after it was first laid down in the studio.

The previously unreleased track, recorded during the band’s later-era sessions, gives music fans a rare glimpse into a lesser-known chapter of the band's evolution. Listeners are rediscovering just how much Beach Boys music remained unheard for decades.

"Deep Purple" was a song included on the shelved 1977 LP Adult/Child. Rolling Stone shared details of that song, and others from the sessions, which were released on a 2026 box set, We Gotta Groove: The Brother Studio Years.

Between 1976 and 1977, Brian Wilson returned to the band after dealing with mental health issues. He subsequently produced two albums that have achieved legendary status among fans. The first was The Beach Boys Love You, followed by Adult/Child. Love You was released in April 1977, and Adult/Child was ultimately shelved.

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

Rolling Stone stated, "On Adult/Child, Wilson teamed up with orchestral arranger Dick Reynolds to create a wild mix of fitness jingles, big-band numbers, and painfully personal confessions like 'Still I Dream of It' and 'It’s Over Now.' After the commercial failure of The Beach Boys Love You, the band decided to shelve Adult/Child and instead start work on its underwhelming 1978 LP, M.I.U. Album. But the Adult/Child sessions leaked out and became a cherished bootleg in fan circles."

View this post on Instagram

"Deep Purple" is a deep-cut favorite rather than a universally beloved mainstream track. In the Beach Boys fan forum, Catch a Wave, Thomas Allen wrote, "Brian returned to the song’s pre-war roots, with a Reynolds-produced arrangement akin to that of American composer Paul Whiteman’s big-band rendition."

"Yet whereas such a recording would typically be accompanied by an equally rich vocal performance, here Brian delivers one of his shakiest and most gruff-sounding vocals of the era, his voice repeatedly cracking as he strains to reach notes he’d have hit with ease just a few years earlier."

The song "Deep Purple" was originally written as a piano piece by Peter DeRose in 1933. It was first recorded one year later by Paul Whiteman and His Orchestra.

Larry Clinton and Jimmy Dorsey each put their own spins on the song in 1939. Following, Tommy Dorsey, Guy Lombardo, and Bing Crosby recorded it.

April and Nino Stevens took the song to No. 1 in 1963. In 1975, Donny and Marie Osmond re-recorded the Stevens version and had an Adult Contemporary hit which also charted on the Billboard Top 100.

The Beach Boys’ late-era recordings captured a moment of transition for the band, reflecting both their signature harmonies and the evolving sound of the late 1970s. Now officially released after decades in the vault, "Deep Purple" offers fans a rare look at a chapter of their career that had long remained unheard.

The release closes the door on one of the Beach Boys’ long-rumored lost recordings, finally bringing it into their official catalog. For fans, it’s a rare chance to hear a piece of the band’s history that had remained in the shadows for nearly half a century.

Related: 1966 Overlooked Beach Boys Hit Now Considered One of the Best Rock Songs of the ’70s

Psychologist Says if You Instantly Apologize ‘For the Mess’ When Guests Arrive, You Likely Have These 7 Traits

Thu, 06/18/2026 - 8:17am

As children, we're often told to say "sorry" when we make a mistake, like stealing a sibling's toy. Apologies certainly have their place, but one psychologist says that they can become our default. For example, you host guests who love you. They arrive, and the first words out of your mouth are, "I'm sorry for the mess." What gives?

"[Constant apologizing] usually represents an underlying insecurity or past modeling or both," says Dr. Hannah Yang, Psy.D., a licensed clinical psychologist for Balanced Awakening, P.C.

This habit may not fit who you are or want to be today, so Dr. Yang says that defaulting to "I'm sorry" can also be an indication that you feel shame for something you perceive as "wrong."

To be clear, she isn't encouraging you to swear off this sentiment. In fact, she says it can serve many different functions.

"Sometimes, we did something out of character that we regret, and we apologize because it doesn’t fit with who we are," she tells Parade. "Sometimes, we’ve genuinely done something that has hurt someone, and we are genuinely sorry."

And sometimes?  

"We apologize when we perceive that we/our home is not up to someone else’s standards," she states.

You may wonder, "Why do I instantly apologize for the clutter to guests when they arrive?"

"It can be quite vulnerable and exposing to allow someone in your home, and an apology in this instance usually serves a different function than other overarching reasons why we may apologize," she reveals.

People who say this to their guests right away often share seven key traits, Dr. Yang explains. Find out what they are below.

Related: 12 Things Confident Women Never Apologize For

Flashpop/Getty Images

Why Do Some People Feel the Need To Apologize When Guests Arrive? 

Dr. Yang shares that people commonly default to apologizing for something in their homes, often because of internalized expectations, especially if their parents always said it.

"We may have picked up on it being socially encouraged," she tells Parade. "More importantly, a person’s home represents their inner world and is the most intimate of physical spaces. It can feel exposing to have guests enter your home."

When we apologize for the mess, she says it's often an attempt to buffer our insecurities or fears of judgment. It can also be a subtle way to maintain control over the interpretation of your abode.

"If the host calls it messy first, it’s not as necessary for the guests to comment behind the host's back, “Did you see how messy their house was?'" she shares.

Related: Psychologist Explains People Who Automatically Say ‘Please’ and ‘Thank You’ Share These 7 Traits

7 Traits of People Who Apologize for a Messy Home, According to a Psychologist 1. They're highly empathetic

Highly empathetic people care deeply about how others experience them. They want to come across as warm, welcoming and inclusive. Since they may see their homes as an extension of themselves, an apology for the pile of Amazon boxes may naturally come up when guests arrive.

"These people are sensing the experience of guests and wondering if they will be comfortable, perhaps are worried about a messy home creating some discomfort," Dr. Yang says.

2. They're highly conscientious

This one is similar to empathy, but Dr. Yang says there's a distinction.

"People with high conscientiousness care about doing a good job and can have high standards for themselves," she points out. "If their environment is not up to snuff, even if it has to do with impossibly high standards, an apology might emerge."

3. They're extra sensitive to social stigma or judgment

Dr. Yang points out that the habit of apologizing to guests for the mess can sometimes start in childhood.

"Some people have grown up in environments where there was harsh judgment for being messy or simply where mistakes or disorder were unacceptable," she says. "In adult life, this can show up as trying to fend off some judgment by apologizing first."

4. They're hospitality-oriented

Perhaps you grew up in the hospitality industry around parents or grandparents who owned a restaurant. Or, maybe you work or still do work in the industry, or you're just a natural "host with the most."

"Some people just have a natural orientation to hosting and hospitality, whether by default or by training," Dr. Yang says. "They have a different standard for when they are in hospitality mode versus maybe home by themselves or with their family."

As a result, she shares that these people may be hyper-attuned to the mess in the corner, or over-prepare or anticipate providing an exceptional degree of hospitality.

5. They're perfectionists

"Of course, this one is on the list," Dr. Yang notes.

Indeed, she points out that people with perfectionistic tendencies—especially regarding their physical environment—can deep-clean their homes from top to bottom and still find a fingerprint on the window or a crumb in the corner that they're dissatisfied with.

"Guests do not notice or register these things, but the perfectionist is looking for the smallest thing that is outside of their standard," she explains.

6. They have humility

This trait can especially come out in people with well-cared-for homes and affluence.

"Someone may intentionally downplay their home or point out flaws to avoid seeming arrogant or superior and to level the social field," Dr. Yang says.

7. They're boundary-sensitive

Dr. Yang says that some people are more aware of the differences they experience in their personal space compared to a public space, such as a five-star hotel.

"To them, it can feel like someone coming into their home is stepping into an un-curated and more intimate and vulnerable space," Dr. Yang says.

Related: The #1 Phrase To Say When Someone Asks an ‘Overly Personal’ Question

Why Does Clutter Stress Some People Out?

Dr. Yang reveals that physical clutter can affect our internal clutter, like thoughts and emotions.

"Some people are more sensitive to this than others, though we’re all affected on some level," she notes. "It’s just the awareness of how much we are affected can vary. Some find it hard to concentrate or perform other tasks when there is clutter in their peripheral vision."

She adds that clutter on the outside can also represent clutter on the inside. You may feel like you have too much to do or on your mind. Resting and settling emotionally can also be a struggle. Many times, Dr. Yang says we don't recognize these issues, but they're secretly stressing us out.

Yet, others may be able to check items off their to-do lists because they developed tools to compensate for any effects clutter has on them.

"Others may have accepted that some clutter will be part of life—such as if you have kids who have toys around—and have adapted accordingly through that acceptance," Dr. Yang says. "In general, having some degree of acceptance of day-to-day functional clutter can reduce the stress about it."

Related: Psychologist Says if You Clean While You Cook, You Likely Have These 7 Traits

Why You Can Stop Apologizing for the State of Your Home

Dr. Yang encourages people to embrace their homes and themselves as they are.

"Acceptance of where you are today and the state of your home today is the best thing you can do," she emphasizes. "It will essentially eliminate the need to apologize, since suddenly there is nothing to apologize for."

It's unnecessary to keep telling yourself the same stories you were taught as a child about the best way to greet people and how to be a "good" host, she adds.

"You can release perfectionism and any past rejections or criticisms that come up for you when hosting," she shares. "You have the power to decide how you’d like to feel about your home, and guests will actually be more comfortable if you are confident about the state of your home." 

And yes, guests can be comfortable in a home with a little clutter or a drop of dried coffee on the counter.

"A lived-in home is often imperfect by nature, and actually puts people at ease," she notes. "The guests coming into your home likely do not have a cleaner home than what you have, especially if you’ve prepared for their arrival. Remember that."

We'll try!

Up Next:

Related: Psychologist Reveals That People Who Always Let Dirty Dishes Pile Up Might Also Have These 7 Traits

Source:

The World’s Largest Museum of Ice Cream Is Officially Landing in Las Vegas This July

Thu, 06/18/2026 - 8:10am

When you think about the ultimate Las Vegas itinerary, your mind probably jumps to high-stakes gaming floors, world-class residency shows and decadent late-night dinners.

But over the last few years, the city’s entertainment landscape has undergone a massive evolution, turning Sin City into the world's premier playground for mind-bending, immersive experiences. Now, a globally beloved flagship is moving into the neighborhood, and they are doing it with the exact kind of over-the-top, record-breaking scale that defines the city's skyline.

The Museum of Ice Cream has officially announced it will open its doors at AREA15’s brand-new Zone 2 expansion on July 3, 2026.

Related: This Las Vegas Attraction Is Part Art Space, Part Theme Park—And It's Expanding in 2026

This isn't just another regional outpost for the experiential brand; it's officially launching as the largest Museum of Ice Cream location ever constructed on the planet. Spanning a massive 30,000 square feet, the multi-sensory playground features 14 completely custom, whimsical installations that pay a direct, gorgeous tribute to the glamour, energy, and spectacle of classic Las Vegas entertainment. Tickets are officially on sale now, starting at $42.

"Half a decade in the making. That's what Museum of Ice Cream Las Vegas represents. We didn't come to Las Vegas to do what we've done before. We came to build the wildest, most immersive, most interactive experience we have ever created. The world's largest ice cream buffet. A two-story Sprinkle Pool. Five slides, including the longest double-helix slide in Vegas. A tattoo parlor. A wedding chapel. This is not Museum of Ice Cream 2.0. This is Museum of Ice Cream, only in Las Vegas," says Manish Vora, Co-Founder & CEO of Museum of Ice Cream.

The scale of the attractions inside the space is absolute wonderland material for anyone who appreciates smart, high-vibe design. Upon arrival, guests walk straight into a luxurious, vintage-inspired "Ice Cream Hotel," before making their way into The Golden Scoop Buffet—the world’s largest all-you-can-eat ice cream buffet, featuring over 20 rotating flavors and dozens of premium toppings included with every single ticket.

Related: Universal Just Opened a Massive New Year-Round Horror Attraction in Vegas

From there, you can dive into the largest Sprinkle Pool ever built, which features matching, two-story slides that plunge you into a literal sea of sprinkles. The property also features The Little Pink Chapel, a stunning wedding venue designed to look like a tiered wedding cake. Complete with ordained ministers on staff and a custom friendship-bracelet-making station in partnership with BaubleBar, the space is fully available for private buy-outs and actual weddings.

The interactive layout moves through five distinct slides—including the longest double-helix slide in the city—and features three immersive hotel "sweets." Guests can jump on a giant marshmallow bed in the nostalgic S'mores Sweet, lean into connection and conversation in the luxe Strawberry Sweet, or check out the Cone-sino, a family-friendly entertainment floor featuring ice-cream-themed casino games and a beautiful specialty cocktail bar. Rounding out the energy is Big Top Taste, the world's first-ever ice cream-themed magic show, a temporary ink parlor called the Lucky Cherry Tattoo Shop, and a vintage-inspired costume rental boutique.

Located just minutes off the main Strip, the fanciful adult playground has quickly become the absolute epicenter for cutting-edge, next-generation entertainment, making it the perfect home for a brand dedicated to pure joy and connection.

Related: Lisa Vanderpump Reveals the One Hotel Luxury She Refused To Compromise on in Her New Las Vegas Property

Melissa Joan Hart Reunites With 'Sabrina the Teenage Witch' Co-Stars: 'Overwhelmed With Love and Nostalgia'

Thu, 06/18/2026 - 8:09am

Melissa Joan Hart is "overwhelmed with love and nostalgia" after reuniting with her Sabrina the Teenage Witch co-stars to celebrate the iconic sitcom's 30th anniversary.

Hart was feeling the magic after reuniting with Beth Broderick, Caroline Rhea, Soleil Moon Frye, Nate Richert, Michelle Beaudoin, Jenna Leigh Green, Elisa Donovan, and David Lascher in Chicago on Saturday, June 13, taking to Instagram the following day to reflect on the special fan event.

"What fun!!!" Hart, 50, wrote alongside photos of the show. She continued, "Thank you to the 900 fans who came out to see us and celebrated with us! From belly laughs, bloopers and silly skits, we were overwhelmed with love and nostalgia!"

"The best compliment I could get was that two of my boys, who weren't interested in watching the show actually wanted pictures with the cast at the end," added the actress, who is mom to sons Mason, 20, Braydon, 18, and Tucker, 13. "'Mom it was actually entertaining and you didn't look 50' might be the best compliments I've ever received!"

She concluded, "My cup runneth over for so many reasons!"

Rhea also celebrated the reunion on Instagram, writing, "Hard to believe we started this coven 30 years ago on Sabrina the Teenage Witch. Sometimes I watch the show, and I don’t remember doing it, and I think, ‘They seem fun.’ It was and always will be such a huge part of my life. I think it worked because we really believed we were family and witches."

"Thank you, Chicago, for being such an incredible audience for our celebration," she continued. "The gift associated with a 30-year anniversary is pearl. Here are my pearls of wisdom: Believe in Magic! If your cat talks back to you, that’s totally normal. Use your power for GOOD. Best Witches, Aunt Hilda."

View this post on Instagram

Controversy Follows GoFundMe Fundraiser Created After Daveigh Chase's Death

Thu, 06/18/2026 - 8:07am

New questions are emerging following the death of actress Daveigh Chase, as confusion grows over a GoFundMe campaign created in her name.

A longtime friend and former manager for Chase told TMZ that members of her inner circle are raising concerns about the legitimacy of the fundraiser, which was launched by a man claiming to be her boyfriend.

According to the former manager, neither Chase’s family nor her closest friends recognize the individual behind the campaign, and they are urging the public to proceed with caution before donating.

The manager also stated that Chase has a SAG trust account with sufficient funds to cover medical and related expenses. He further noted that her father has already contacted the hospital and is in the process of claiming her body.

In light of these developments, he is advising fans and supporters to hold off on contributing to the GoFundMe until the identity of the organizer and the validity of his claims can be properly verified.

However, the organizer of the fundraiser, identified as Roy Hernandez, has strongly disputed those concerns.

He told TMZ it is "100 percent" false to suggest the campaign is illegitimate and maintains that the funds were intended to help provide Chase with a proper memorial service.

Hernandez has also expressed frustration over the growing skepticism, saying he believed he was acting in good faith on behalf of the late actress and her family.

The conflicting accounts have added further uncertainty to an already tragic situation, as questions remain about who should be responsible for managing memorial arrangements and public contributions.

For now, supporters are being urged to wait for official confirmation from family representatives before taking further action.

The situation continues to develop as those close to Chase seek clarity in the days following her death.

Related: Daveigh Chase's Final Instagram Post Is Taking on New Meaning After Her Death

Lindsay Lohan’s Lost 2004 'Mean Girls' Interview Just Surfaced—and Her Real-Life Celebrity Roommate Will Shock You (Exclusive)

Thu, 06/18/2026 - 8:04am

In the spring of 2004, the world was on the precipice of a massive pop-culture shift. Mean Girls was filming in Toronto, and none of us quite realized just how legendary the teen comedy would become. Or that it would turn then 17-year-old Lindsay Lohan into a worldwide superstar.

At the time, I was an entertainment editor for CosmoGIRL!, deeply embedded in the Y2K teen Hollywood ecosystem. I was about to publish an unauthorized biography tracking Lindsay's meteoric rise, Lindsay Lohan: The It Girl Next Door. So, when the invite arrived to visit the Mean Girls set, I packed my bags.

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

We spent hours waiting inside a makeshift classroom, watching crew members orchestrate total chaos in the hallways as "Burn Book" pages fluttered through the air. After interviewing the rest of the soon-to-be-iconic cast, the door swung open, and a 17-year-old Lindsay Lohan walked in. It wasn’t Wednesday, but she was indeed dressed in pink. She was also radiant, freckle-faced, and refreshingly candid.

While snippets of that afternoon made it into print 22 years ago, the most fascinating parts of our conversation were left on the cutting-room floor. Today, in partnership with my Substack, TheTeen Mag Time Machine, I’m opening the vault.

The biggest surprise from that afternoon in the fall of 2003? Lindsay wasn’t hanging out with "Plastics" off-camera. She was busy preparing to move in with another major teen icon: Raven-Symoné.

Here are the most fascinating glimpses inside the mind of a 17-year-old, on-the-verge Lindsay Lohan from this unreleased transcript from the set of Mean Girls.

Related: 'Mean Girls' Cast: Where Are They Now?

How do you relax and unwind when you aren't working?

Lindsay Lohan: I don't think at 17 you want to relax and unwind, I am always constantly doing something. When I flew into New York last weekend to see my family, I was home for two hours before I had to go to the city for work. My little sister Ally said, “I don't consider you my sister anymore! You are not here!” She's nine and that killed me.

My mom’s going through that withdrawal phase because I just got an apartment in LA with my friend. She’s like, ‘That's it! You’re going to move out and leave us and never talk to me again—I can't deal with this!’ and hung up the phone. I was like, ‘MOM! NOOO! I’m always going to come back and forth!’ I want to be with my friends too, so it's hard. In LA, I’m moving in with a really good friend of mine and she’s in the business too. We’re both going to do our own things and it’ll be a fun experience.

Who is your roommate?

Lindsay: It was really random that we moved in with each other because I actually met her—Raven-Symoné—at the Vanity Fair photo shoot [for the "It’s Totally Raining Teens" cover]. We started talking and hanging out when I was in LA. I mentioned I was looking for an apartment and like a week later she was like, 'I found a place! I go there everyday to sit in it and look at it. We have to get it.'

What kind of roommate do you think you’ll be?

Lindsay: I'm pretty organized and color coordinated. I mean, I do throw my stuff around. Raven’s been handling everything. I haven't even been to the apartment yet. Raven said, 'I'm going to look for stuff. We need to get the paint and get the bedroom set and do this and that.' She's very ahead of herself. She's been very mature about everything. I'm excited. I picked baby pink for my room and we picked baby blue for both bathrooms.

Tell us about your look on set today?

Lindsay: Today I'm a 'Plastic.' When I'm a 'Plastic,' my hair is more curly and I wear more makeup and stuff. When I was in high school I felt like you always had to wear makeup. I was never comfortable in my skin, I hated my freckles, I couldn't go out without a base on my face. I’ve gotten so much more comfortable with myself from being on sets. It's so much easier to just wear no makeup.

Related: 50 Mean Girls Quotes That Are So Fetch

LOS ANGELES - APRIL 30: The movie "Mean Girls", directed by Mark Waters. Seen here from left, Lindsay Lohan (as Cady Heron), Amanda Seyfried (as Karen Smith), Lacey Chabert (as Gretchen Wieners) and Rachel McAdams (as Regina George). Initial theatrical release April 30, 2004. Screen capture. Paramount Pictures. (Photo by CBS via Getty Images)

CBS via Getty Images

What is it like being number one on the call sheet for the first time with Mean Girls?

Lindsay: With Freaky Friday, Jamie Lee Curtis always referred to herself as being “number one on the call sheet” and threw that in my face. So I actually framed this call sheet and sent it to her! I had a talk with Mark Waters [director of Freaky Friday and Mean Girls] and he was like, “You know, there's no Jamie [Lee Curtis] on this set. You have to hold your own, be the responsible one and let people look up to you."

That kind of scared me a little bit because if I mess up here and there, I don't want people to think I'm immature. But when I'm on set, it's always professional. This is work for me.

Editor’s Note: Want to hear about the wild story of what happened when Lauren ended up at Lindsay’s family home for a Seventeen Magazine cover story stakeout in 2006? Head over to The Teen Mag Time Machine, for the complete vault and more unfiltered pop culture nostalgia!

Next, check out the funniest Mean Girls memes.

Watch: Bo Derek, 69, Impresses Fans With Her Confidence and Skill on Horseback

Thu, 06/18/2026 - 8:03am

Bo Derek is riding horses like an absolute pro.

The screen legend, who started working as a child, had her breakthrough role in 1979’s 10, which featured that iconic scene of her running on the beach. In later years, she made us laugh alongside Chris Farley and David Spade in Tommy Boy. While the movie star has occasionally appeared onscreen in recent years, she prefers to live a quieter life in the California countryside. But in a series of new videos, Derek is showing off her impressive horseback riding skills in Portugal. Whether she's galloping outdoors with significant speed or trotting around the indoor ring on top of the beautiful animal, Derek's command of the complex sport is incredibly fun to watch.

Check out the pictures and videos of Derek riding horses below:

View this post on Instagram View this post on Instagram

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

Derek Still Looks Amazing on the Red Carpet

While she looks great in the horseback riding ring, Derek still commands the red carpet like a movie star. In a recent red carpet appearance, Derek looked absolutely stunning at the opening of Villa Remus “The View” in Palma de Mallorca, Spain. Wearing a cream-colored silk suit, Derek is still every bit the blonde beauty she was decades ago.

Photo by Franziska Krug on Getty Images

Who is Bo Derek Married To?

Derek is married to Sex and the City and And Just Like That alum John Corbett, 65. The duo looked great while attending the Shania Twain Rose Ceremony at No Vacancy in Los Angeles, California, recently.

View this post on Instagram

Related: Shania Twain, 60, Stuns With Ageless Beauty

Where Do Bo Derek and John Corbett Live?

Living in Santa Barbara with Corbett, Derek prefers a quieter pace of life.

“…Right now, if I’m home, I wake up, make coffee, feed the horses, feed the dogs, feed myself, go to my computer, work in the garden, swim in the pool for exercise and then feed horses, feed dogs, feed ourselves,” she toldVariety back in 2020. “John and I watch Jeopardy while we eat and then we watch movies all night.”

No matter how they spend their time, it’s safe to say that Derek is so in love with Corbett, more than 20 years on.

“It’s that twinkle in his eye. His humor. He has a lot of joy in him and I feed off of it,” she told Entertainment Tonight. “The simplest things can make him so happy, so he makes my day brighter because of that, too. And he’s got a wicked sense of humor.” 

Related: John Corbett Debuts a Striking New Gray-Haired Look Alongside Wife Bo Derek

Iconic Country Supergroup Set for One-Night-Only Performance at Historic Gala

Thu, 06/18/2026 - 8:03am

 Little Big Town has a special one-night-only show in the works.

The multi-Grammy Award-winning country band will headline the 40th annual Carousel Ball, a Hollywood institution since 1978.

The supergroup will take the stage on Saturday, October 3, at the Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel.

All proceeds from the charity ball benefit the Children’s Diabetes Foundation and Colorado-based Barbara Davis Center for Diabetes's mission to fund groundbreaking research and care, presented by Dexcom, the global leader in glucose biosensing.

It's a prestigious honor, with past headliners including icons such as Sir Elton John, Celine Dion, and Whitney Houston, along with last year's Goo Goo Dolls honoring Neil Diamond, among many others.

“We are honored to welcome Little Big Town to this year’s Carousel Ball,” said Dana Davis, Event Chairman, and Barbara Davis, Honorary Chairman, in a press release shared with Parade. “For nearly five decades, the Carousel Ball has brought together an incredible community united by one goal—to improve the lives of people living with type 1 diabetes and help accelerate research toward better treatments, prevention, and ultimately a cure. We are deeply grateful to Little Big Town for joining us in support of this special evening."

The ball is celebrating its milestone 40-year anniversary, as guests enjoy dinner, cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, silent & live auctions, an exciting program and entertainment.

Since its start in 1978, the charity ball has become a Hollywood favorite, bringing together entertainment, sports and business industry leaders.

Little Big Town's Karen Fairchild, Phillip Sweet, Kimberly Schlapman, and Jimi Westbrook, who are set to headline, have plenty in the works this year, as they previously announced their upcoming tour in support of their 12th studio album, It's a Dying Art, arriving on Aug. 28.

The harmony-driven country group, which formed in 1998, has long been known for songs ranging from heartfelt ballads to bold, edgy tunes, taking home awards in the double digits, with several hits spanning decades, including their mid-2000s breakout, “Boondocks,” and 2010s peak popularity tracks, “Pontoon” and “Girl Crush.”

You can purchase tickets and tables for the Carousel Ball here.

Country Star Announces 2026 Concert Appearance With Special Guests

Thu, 06/18/2026 - 8:00am

Country and bluegrass icon Ricky Skaggs is set to return to the stage at the 2026 Kentucky State Fair, where he will perform alongside his acclaimed band Kentucky Thunder and special guests T.G. Sheppard and Wade Hayes.

The concert is scheduled for Aug. 23, as part of the Kentucky State Fair’s 2026 Texas Roadhouse Concert Series. The performance will take place at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville, Kentucky. Gates open at 6:30 p.m., and the show begins at 8 p.m.

The appearance places Skaggs among a diverse lineup of artists performing during the fair’s annual concert series, which runs from Aug. 20 through Aug. 29. Organizers recently unveiled the full schedule, featuring a mix of national touring acts and Kentucky-based performers.

Ricky Skaggs performs at Mel Tillis Memorial at Ryman Auditorium on Jan. 31, 2018 in Nashville, Tennessee.

Photo by R. Diamond/Getty Images

The Aug. 23 show is expected to bring together several generations of country music fans. Skaggs remains one of the most respected figures in both country and bluegrass music, while Sheppard is known for a string of chart-topping country hits that made him a major force in the genre during the 1970s and 1980s.

View this post on Instagram

Born in Cordell, Kentucky, Skaggs began performing as a child and went on to become one of the most influential artists in modern country and bluegrass music. Throughout his career, he has earned 12 No. 1 country hits, multiple Country Music Association Awards, Academy of Country Music Awards and Grammy Awards.

His contributions to American music have also been recognized with inductions into the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum, the International Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame, and the Country Music Hall of Fame.

In recent interviews, Skaggs reflected on the defining moments of his career, including his transition from bluegrass to mainstream country music and his later return to his bluegrass roots with Kentucky Thunder. That return helped strengthen his reputation as one of the genre’s leading ambassadors.

Today, Skaggs continues to perform regularly and remains a celebrated figure among longtime fans and younger musicians who have embraced bluegrass traditions.

The Kentucky State Fair’s Texas Roadhouse Concert Series will feature 10 nights of live entertainment in Lot L at the Kentucky Exposition Center.

The series opens on Aug. 20 with Cooper Alan and JD Shelburne. Other scheduled performances include Midnight Star with Digital Underground, Black Stone Cherry with The Goldy Locks Band, Cain with Ben Fuller, the Happy Together Tour, Ernest with Alex Miller, Boys Like Girls, Hairball and Foghat with the Kentucky Headhunters.

Along with the nightly concerts, fairgoers can enjoy additional live music throughout the fairgrounds. More than 40 bands are expected to perform in various entertainment areas during the event.

The Kentucky State Fair runs from Aug. 20 through Aug. 30 and will feature livestock competitions, agricultural exhibits, family attractions, talent showcases, and other annual traditions.

Admission to the fair includes access to the Texas Roadhouse Concert Series, making the Aug. 23 performance by Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder with T.G. Sheppard and Wade Hayes one of the featured entertainment events on the schedule.

Related: ’80s Rock Classic Named No. 1 Hit Song Became a Timeless Power Anthem

Knicks Fans Furious After Owner James Dolan Accepts Trump's White House Invitation

Thu, 06/18/2026 - 7:57am

The New York Knicks won their first NBA Championship in 53 years, and the whole city is ready to celebrate. While New Yorkers will get the chance to revel in the victory during a ticker-tape parade on Thursday, June 18, it looks like the players could soon head to Washington, D.C.

That’s right, the Knicks may visit the White House. This would make the team the first NBA championship winner to take President Donald Trump up on his offer of a meet-and-greet. 

Knicks owner James Dolan recently told WFAN Sports Radio, “We just did receive an invitation from the White House, which we accepted. We still have to figure out the details, etc.”

He continued, “But you know, yes, of course, I mean, you know, look, I invited the President to come down to the game, right. He is a friend. I’ve known him for 30 years, and I’m very proud to bring the team to the White House.”

What do Knicks fans think about the NBA Championship winners visiting Donald Trump?

Well, let’s just say that the reactions to this news weren’t great. Knicks fans took to social media, blasting Dolan for his decision. One Redditor showed their support to the team, panning the owner with a simple, “Love to the players. Hate to Dolan.” 

Other Knicks fans also expressed their feelings, with one writing, “I’m not gonna lie, I will be deeply disappointed in any player who shows up. I’m not sure Dolan even asked the players what their thoughts were before accepting the invitation. I honestly don’t think these guys want to participate in this.”

Things took another turn when someone added, “Dolan’s gonna give him the real trophy, isn’t he?” Other Redditors responded to this unimaginable thought: “I’ll never forgive him if he does. Would call for him to sell the team no matter how well we’re doing,” and, “Next curse would be for a hundred years if he does.”

Some Knicks fans brought up an easy out for the players, sharing, “Dolan answering this without speaking to the team is hilarious. I doubt they’ll go and there will be a ‘scheduling conflict’ to avoid embarrassment for Dolan and Trump.” 

And then there were the comments on WFAN Sports Radio’s X post of the Dolan interview. Comments such as “Let’s see which players will sully their reputation by going along” and “I suspect the Knicks players will decline the invite” were on the tame side. 

James Dolan confirms the Knicks have been invited to the White House and have accepted:@craigcartonlive @CMacWFAN pic.twitter.com/kemKQZJhf9

— WFAN Sports Radio (@WFAN660) June 17, 2026

Others raged, “Dolan what a chump. He is the sole reason that the @nyknicks went soooo long without a chip. He ruined the organization with his micromanaging & meddling. Worst team owner in the history of sports,” and, “I wonder what James Dolan is holding over the Knicks ’ teammates’ heads to make them attend the invitation to the White House. The irony doesn’t escape me, as the only game the Knicks lost during the Championship playoffs was the one where Trump showed up to watch the game.” 

As of now, there’s no official word on which (if any) Knicks players will visit the White House.

Two Strangers Team Up to Find an Iconic Piece of Fashion History in Hallmark's 'The Love Heist' (Exclusive Sneak Peek)

Thu, 06/18/2026 - 7:56am

Hallmarkies, get ready to go an adventure in Hallmark's latest movie, The Love Heist. This week, we head to Chicago for a fashion gala where a stylist and a security chief team up to track down a lost piece of fashion history after it goes missing days before the gala. The film reminds me of some of the romantic caper film from the 50s and 60s I used to watch with my mom when I was a kid.

Read on for more about The Love Heist and don't forget to check out the Parade exclusive sneak peek!

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

What is The Love Heist about?

Celebrity stylist Kayli (Lyndsy Fonseca) must team up with hotel security chief Mills (Peter Porte) to track down an iconic piece of fashion history after it goes missing on her watch before the Chicago Costume Gala.

Related: Hallmark Star Diagnosed With Cancer at 44: ‘I Promise to Persevere’

Who's in the Cast ofThe Love Heist? Lyndsy Fonseca Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Luka Cyprian

Hallmark Media

Lyndsy Fonseca as Kayli

Fonseca has been on popular shows like Nikita, Desperate Housewives and9-1-1: Lone Star. She’s no stranger to Hallmark and her previous credits include North to Home, Next Stop, Christmas, and Where Are You, Christmas? She also starred in Single on the 25th opposite When Calls the Heart'sDaniel Lissing.

Related: Watch Daniel Lissing and Lyndsy Fonseca in Hallmark’s New Christmas Movie ‘Single on the 25th’ (Exclusive Sneak Peek)

Peter Porte Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Luka Cyprian

Hallmark Media

Peter Porte as Mills

Brendan Penny is no stranger to Hallmark. Having starred in over a dozen films, Penny also spent six seasons as Kevin O’Brien on Chesapeake Shores. He has also appeared on BH90210, Supernatural and Stargate: Atlantis.

When does The Love Heist premiere on Hallmark Channel?

The Love Heist premieres on Saturday, June 20at 8 p.m.ET on Hallmark Channel and is available to stream the next day on Hallmark+.

Related: Heather Hemmens Reconnects With Her First Love in Hallmark’s New Texas Romance

Does Parade have a sneak peek of The Love Heist?

Yes! Check out this Parade exclusive sneak peek of The Love Heist below:

PARADE Exclusive - The Love Heist - Sneak Peek (1:49) Check out images from The Love Heist

Take a look at some select images from The Love Heist in the gallery below.

The Love HeistHallmark Media Lyndsy Fonseca Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Allister Foster

Hallmark Media

Peter Porte Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Allister Foster

Hallmark Media

Lyndsy Fonseca Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Luka Cyprian

Hallmark Media

Lyndsy Fonseca Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Luka Cyprian

Hallmark Media

Lyndsy Fonseca, Peter Porte Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Luka Cyprian

Hallmark Media

Chris Yamez, Rhianna Jagpal Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Luka Cyprian

Hallmark Media

Chris Yamez, Rhianna Jagpal Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Luka Cyprian

Hallmark Media

Cecilia Deacon, Jason Tremblay Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Luka Cyprian

Hallmark Media

Peter Porte Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Luka Cyprian

Hallmark Media

Lyndsy Fonseca, Cecilia Deacon Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Luka Cyprian

Hallmark Media

Cecilia Deacon, Jason Tremblay Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Luka Cyprian

Hallmark Media

Lyndsy Fonseca, Peter Porte Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Luka Cyprian

Hallmark Media

Lyndsy Fonseca Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Luka Cyprian

Hallmark Media

Peter Porte, Lyndsy Fonseca Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Luka Cyprian

Hallmark Media

Peter Porte Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Allister Foster

Hallmark Media

Lyndsy Fonseca Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Allister Foster

Hallmark Media

Rhianna Jagpal Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Allister Foster

Hallmark Media

Lyndsy Fonseca, Peter Porte Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Allister Foster

Hallmark Media

Peter Porte Credit: ©2026 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Allister Foster

Hallmark Media

Did ‘Summer House: The Aftermath’ Just Introduce West Wilson’s Ex as a Season 11 Cast Test? Fans Are Divided

Thu, 06/18/2026 - 7:52am

Meija Moreno’s appearance on Summer House: The Aftermath has viewers wondering if producers are quietly setting the stage for her Hamptons debut — but some fans aren’t convinced she belongs in the house.

Meija was pulled into the Summer House reunion drama when Ciara Miller and Kyle Cooke connected with her backstage via video chat, hoping to get more answers about West Wilson’s complicated romantic history. During the conversation, she revealed that she and West had been in an exclusive relationship — a claim that raised eyebrows after West maintained last summer that he was single.

Despite a three-part reunion, viewers were left with more questions than answers about West’s relationships and his romance with Amanda Batula. Bravo then added a bonus episode, Summer House: The Aftermath, to dig deeper into the fallout.

The special gave Meija even more screen time, with the final installment focusing on her conversation with Ciara as they bonded over their shared connection to West. Meija also revealed that she and West had a six-hour conversation after the reunion, suggesting their story might not be finished. Although she later clarified on Instagram that she does not want to rekindle the relationship, her appearance still left fans wondering whether Bravo was introducing her as more than just a one-time guest.

View this post on Instagram

Now, viewers are debating whether Meija could become part of Summer House Season 11. While some are intrigued by the possibility of a new cast member bringing fresh drama to the house, others are already pushing back — questioning whether West’s relationship fallout is enough to earn her a permanent spot in the Hamptons.

Some opinions were strong in favor of bringing Meija on for next season. "Bring Meija to Summer House 11! Lets start bumping up the Latina representation thats been missing since Queen Danielle left the show," Queens of Bravo wrote on Threads, with several people in agreement. Others echoed this sentiment with: "Cast Meija on the next season of Summer House."

However, others were ready to cut ties with West completely. “I don’t want Meija on the next season of Summer House. We don’t need a 4th West ex on the show. No sympathy casting,” one commenter wrote on Threads, with several others sharing similar frustrations. Another fan’s hot take suggested that West may still be keeping in touch with Meija to leave the door open for a possible cameo if she does join the cast.

Of course, other viewers approached Meija’s appearance with more skepticism, questioning whether her time on The Aftermath was more about reality TV than closure. One fan wrote, “Did Meija just play the ultimate game to get herself on television, or do we actually excuse this because she’s just a relatable girl who is ‘down bad’? If she officially joins the cast for Season 11, are you tuning in, or are you totally over it?”

With West revealing during The Aftermath that he won’t be returning to Summer House, Season 11 casting remains uncertain — even as production is expected to begin soon.

1995 'Toy Story' Cast Had to Start Over After '80 Percent' Was Done — Here's Why

Thu, 06/18/2026 - 7:48am

When we saw the original Toy Story back in 1995, of course there was sequel potential in the air...

Cut to year 2026, and Toy Story 5 is releasing in theaters this weekend. And it's projected to be another hit.

It certainly helps that critics are singing its praises, with the fifth installment currently sitting at an impressive 94% average critics' rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Here's the sneak-peek synopsis offered by the popular website:

"This time it's Toy meets Tech. Woody (voice of Tom Hanks), Buzz Lightyear (voice of Tim Allen), Jessie (voice of Joan Cusack) and the rest of the gang's jobs are challenged when they come face-to-face with Lilypad (voice of Greta Lee), a brand-new tablet device that arrives with her own disruptive ideas about what is best for their kid, Bonnie. Will playtime ever be the same?"

As expected, the stars have been out promoting this latest addition to the iconic film franchise. Hanks, 69, recently joined The Rest Is Entertainment podcast as one example, and reflected on the original film — which is now more than 30 years old, believe it or not. He shared a surprising anecdote about the behind-the-scenes process:

“We did about 80% of a movie that they threw out. They put it together and they said, 'There is something intrinsically wrong with the DNA that we started off with,'" the Oscar winner told hosts Marina Hyde and Richard Osman. "And I guess they made a painful call to us all saying, 'Everything you’ve done, we’re going to start all over from scratch.'"

Hanks continued, "And then in out, it came a whole different relationship between Woody and Buzz, and our original characters as well. And I had to give that up to that. That’s a pretty bold throw in order to make on something that they just wanted to get right.”

Check out the Wednesday, June 17 episode in full below.

Patagonia’s 'Very Comfortable' Hip Pack Is 44% Off at REI and Perfect for Summer Outings

Thu, 06/18/2026 - 7:45am

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

From packed weekends to fully stacked weekdays, spring and summer are all about having plans on plans — trail hikes in the morning, farmers market runs by midday, beach afternoons, outdoor concerts at night, and long travel days that manage to fit it all in. When your calendar is this full, the only real question isn’t what are you doing today? — it’s what are you bringing with you?

That’s where a no-fuss, function-first bag earns its place in the rotation. One standout deal at REI makes it even easier to upgrade your everyday carry: The Patagonia Fieldsmith Hip Pack is down to $33, marked 44% off its original $59 price tag while supplies last.

Patagonia Fieldsmith Hip Pack, $33 (was $59) at REI

Courtesy of REI

Shop at REI

With a compact 5-liter capacity, this bag offers just enough space for daily must-haves without feeling bulky, making it easy to carry for everything from trail days to travel plans. It features a water-resistant body made from 100% organic cotton canvas with a polyurethane (PU) coating, paired with a lightweight 100% recycled polyester lining for added durability. A breathable spacer mesh back panel helps keep things comfortable during all-day wear, while bluesign-approved materials and Fair Trade Certified factory construction provide peace of mind that the bag was produced responsibly and sustainably.

Storage is thoughtfully laid out with a spacious main compartment, an internal mesh pocket for organization, and a zippered exterior pocket for quick-grab items like keys, cards, or lip balm. For versatility, it can be worn as a hip pack or crossbody, or even used as an organizer when packing for longer trips and weekend getaways. Finishing details like daisy chains for latching on extra gear, plus a featherlight build — just 8.47 ounces — make it an easy, flexible go-anywhere essential that doesn’t overcomplicate your carry.

Outdoor adventurers and city commuters alike appreciated this “study” and “well-made” bag. “Phone, keys, lip balm, point and shoot camera, knife, you name it, it goes in the bag and out on the trail," one shopper wrote, adding that the fit is "very comfortable" and the pack has "lots of thoughtful details."

Shop More Deals

Related: Amazon's 'Stunning' $9 Crossbody Bag Is Perfect for Summer Travel and Comes in 7 'Classy' Styles

With its “lightweight and functional” design, the Patagonia Fieldsmith Hip Pack is worth grabbing ahead of all your summer adventures. Get it now during REI’s Anniversary Sale, and don’t forget to use code ANNIV26 for 20% off if you're an REI Member! 

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.

Tom Hanks Had No Idea His 'Toy Story' Character Has a Last Name

Thu, 06/18/2026 - 7:41am

Even Tom Hanks hasn't learned everything there is to know about his Toy Story character.

More than three decades after the Oscar-winning actor first voiced Woody, he was shocked to learn during an interview with BBC Radio 1 published on Wednesday, June 17, that the iconic Pixar character does, in fact, have a last name.

"By the way, I only recently discovered that Woody has a surname. Are you aware that Woody has a surname?" BBC film critic Ali Plumb asked Hanks, who responded, "I had no idea."

Hanks guessed that Woody's last name might actually just be "The Sheriff," at which point Plumb revealed that the character's full name is Woody Pride.

"Double twist," Plumb continued. "Jessie's full name is Jessica Jane Pride. Which…"

At this point, Hanks' co-star, Buzz Lightyear voice actor Tim Allen, chimed in, "Wait a minute. I'd heard this, that they might be related." Hanks wasn't hearing the suggestion that Woody and Jessie might actually be siblings, however, exclaiming, "No! Distant cousins, please. Please!"

After more than 30 years playing Woody, Hanks was shocked to know that he still had more to learn about his cowboy character. "How did they find this out? I play the guy [and] didn't realize I had a surname," the actor, 69, joked.

Toy Story fans had long debated Woody's possible surname before Toy Story 3 director Lee Unkrich ultimately settled the score in 2009. "Woody's actual full name is 'Woody Pride,' and has been since the earliest days of developing the original Toy Story," Unkrich wrote on Twitter at the time, as per BuzzFeed.

Toy Story 5 debuts in theaters on Friday, June 19. "The toys are back and this time, it's Toy meets Tech," according to the film's official logline. "Woody, Buzz, Jessie, and the rest of the gang's jobs are challenged when they come face-to-face with Lilypad, a brand-new tablet device that arrives with her own disruptive ideas about what is best for their kid, Bonnie."

6 Outdoor Lighting Mistakes Landscape Designers Warn Against

Thu, 06/18/2026 - 7:30am

Summer is almost here, and it's time to get your yard looking as welcoming as possible as warmer days quickly approach. One important task? Ensuring that your yard is well-lit—both so that your home appears welcoming from the street and is also all set for nighttime entertaining.

But, let's start with what not to do. In this article, experts highlight six common mistakes that people make when brightening up their outdoor spaces: avoid these at all costs!

1. Displaying Large Light Fixtures

Photo by Artem Kniaz on Getty Images

Bigger isn't better when it comes to your outdoor lighting fixtures, explains Joe Raboine, the VP of design at Oldcastle APG, parent company of Belgard. He finds that large path lights can appear dated. "Upgrade areas like walkways with inset paver lights that illuminate the space while offering a more linear, clean aesthetic," he suggests.

2. Using Solar Lighting Incorrectly

Photo by Catherine Lane on Getty Images

Caroline Ervin, a landscape designer and the founder of Caroline Ervin Landscape Design, is a proponent of incorporating solar lighting outdoors. However, a common mistake people make is with regard to its placement. "Make sure they get plenty of sunshine for charging during the day," cautions Ervin, who is also the owner of The Georgetown Garden Shop. "Placing solar fixtures in a shady garden often won’t work."

3. Adding Too Much Color

Photo by Bilanol on Getty Images

Just because colorful outdoor lighting exists, it's not the right choice for every space. "Color-changing LED lights have become increasingly popular and are great for setting the mood for any occasion," Raboine explains. However, it's in your best interest to save these for special events only. "Using bright colors as a constant lighting motif can make a space look and feel outdated and clash with other features," he says. "Keep things neutral and simple until the time calls for a fun pop of color."

4. Incorporating Too Many (or Too Few) Lights

Photo by diczman on Getty Images

You'll also want to be thoughtful about the amount of lighting you incorporate into your yard as a whole. "The biggest landscape lighting mistake is using too many lights, which drown out the plants and garden features," Ervin says. She concludes, "The overall aesthetic should be subtle: 'Wow, the garden looks beautiful at night,' versus, 'Look at all the lighting in the garden.'"

At the same time, adding too little lighting is equally detrimental, Raboine warns. "If your outdoor space has sparse lighting, it can make the area feel small and less welcoming—not to mention pose obvious safety hazards," he says.

5. Placing Light Fixtures on the Lawn

Photo by Lovec1 on Getty Images

Think about practicality when it comes to the placement of your outdoor lighting fixtures. As Ervin notes, many people will position these on the lawn without much regard for day to day activity. "This often results in fixtures being knocked around by lawnmowers and looking crooked," she says. "Keep them placed within a planting bed where there is less opportunity for someone to bang into them."

6. Positioning Light Fixtures Evenly on a Path

Photo by wanderluster on Getty Images

If you're placing lights around a path, be sure to distribute them unevenly, Ervin notes—otherwise, your path will resemble an airport runway!

Related: Hobby Lobby's $12 Geometric Solar Lights Add a Cozy Glow to Outdoor Spaces

Two ‘Breaking Bad’ Stars Reprise Their Roles in a New Video Celebrating America 250

Thu, 06/18/2026 - 7:28am

Breaking Bad ended back in 2013, but there have been iconic spinoffs like El Camino and Better Call Saul that have been keeping the franchise alive. Better Call Saul, which followed Saul Goodman, ended in 2022, so it’s been a few years since Bob Odenkirk has portrayed the legendary lawyer.

Now, he’s back in a short video meant to celebrate America 250. And he’s not the only character from the show who is reprising their role. Jonathan Banks, who played Mike Ehrmantraut in both shows, was also involved in this small project.

The video, which was uploaded by the channel Saul4Democracy, shows Odenkirk seated at his familiar desk in a bright orange suit. “Hi, I’m Saul Goodman,” he starts by saying. “Did you know you have rights? Well, you do. Sure, they’re old-timey. They were written by a bunch of guys in powdered wigs and knee socks. Boring, but believe it or not, they’re still surprisingly relevant.”

He continued, “Your rights include, but are not limited to, freedom of speech, freedom of assembly, freedom of the press, freedom against unreasonable searches and seizures, et cetera, et cetera. Wow, you lucky so-and-so. Look at you, you got rights coming out the wazoo, all because a whole bunch of good people, 250 years’ worth, sacrificed everything they had for this awesome wallpaper behind me.”

He, of course, was referring to the wallpaper of the U.S. Constitution, which is present in his office in both Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul.

At the end of the video, Banks pops up to add, “I’m Mike, and I approve this message.”

Related: ‘Happy Days’ Star, 80, Is Honored That This Iconic Woman Had a Crush on His Character

The video was posted to social media by the co-creator of Better Call Saul, Peter Gould. Gould also confirmed that the video was not made using AI after a few fans questioned whether the footage was authentic. However, it has not been revealed when exactly this was filmed or whether there will be any more content in the future.

As one fan on YouTube said, “This makes me so curious about what this could lead to, if anything, because the original people who made the show were done with this universe.” Another said, “Looking for hidden details now...”

However, most fans were simply excited that they had the chance to see some of their favorite characters back on their screens one more time.

1973 Rock Song Was Never a Top 10 Hit—Yet Became the Band's Signature Song

Thu, 06/18/2026 - 7:15am

In 1973, Lynyrd Skynyrd released "Free Bird" as a heartfelt Southern rock ballad.

It wasn’t a Top 10 hit on the Billboard charts, and it never came close to topping them either.

Yet more than 50 years later, it remains the band's signature song, and one of the most recognizable rock anthems ever recorded.

"Free Bird" first appeared on Lynyrd Skynyrd’s debut album released in August 1973. Written by vocalist Ronnie Van Zant and guitarist Allen Collins, the song begins as a slow, emotional reflection on a relationship that can’t be saved before building into one of the most famous guitar-driven finales in rock history.

Unlike many classic rock staples, "Free Bird" wasn’t an immediate chart phenomenon. When released as a single in late 1974, it peaked at No. 19 on the Billboard Hot 100. While respectable, it fell well short of the chart success achieved by many other songs of the era.

That didn’t stop audiences from embracing it.

The song quickly became a centerpiece of Lynyrd Skynyrd’s live performances. Concertgoers were captivated by its dramatic structure, which transformed from a tender ballad into an extended guitar showcase featuring Collins and Gary Rossington. Live versions often stretched well beyond 10 minutes, turning the song into an event rather than just another track in the setlist.

The lyrics tell the story of a man who knows he cannot settle down, comparing himself to a bird that must keep flying.

"If I leave here tomorrow, would you still remember me?"

Van Zant sings in the song’s opening lines. The combination of emotional vulnerability and soaring musicianship helped make the track resonate with generations of listeners.

Its popularity only grew after tragedy struck the band.

In October 1977, a plane crash killed Van Zant, guitarist Steve Gaines and backup singer Cassie Gaines.

In the years that followed, “Free Bird” took on an added emotional weight, becoming closely associated with Van Zant’s legacy and the band's enduring influence on Southern rock.

Today, "Free Bird" remains a staple of classic rock radio and frequently appears on lists of the greatest rock songs ever recorded. Its iconic guitar solo is regularly cited among the best in music history, and the song has been featured in countless movies, television shows and sporting events.

Perhaps most remarkably, its reputation has far surpassed its original chart performance. While many No. 1 hits have faded into obscurity, "Free Bird" continues to attract new listeners decades after its release.

Not bad for a song that never even cracked the Top 10.

Corey Feldman Says He Was Misdiagnosed After Emergency Hospitalization

Thu, 06/18/2026 - 7:13am

Corey Feldman is clearing the air about his recent health scare, which saw the actor hospitalized after suffering a medical emergency on a flight from Chicago to Los Angeles.

Two days after the Goonies actor, 54, was whisked away by paramedics at LAX on Monday, June 15, Feldman returned to Instagram to clarify the cause of his hospitalization.

While early reports indicated that doctors thought Feldman's in-flight symptoms could be caused by pancreatitis or gallstones, the Dancing With the Stars alum confirmed in his video that he was actually suffering from a brutal case of food poisoning.

"I WANTED 2 TOUCH BASE AFTER THAT BIG OL HEALTH SCARE & LET U ALL KNOW IM ALIVE & WELL!" Feldman wrote in the caption of his Wednesday, June 17, video, claiming that a doctor had initially misdiagnosed him before someone on his medical team "SENT THAT MISDIAGNOSIS 2 THE MEDIA IN REAL TIME" based on the result of a preliminary blood test result.

"HOWEVER, IT WAS ONLY FOOD POISONING THANK GOD! ILL B OK," he assured.

Feldman’s publicist confirmed to USA Today on Tuesday, June 16, that Feldman had been diagnosed with food poisoning and that he "is doing much better and is now out of the hospital." The representative added at the time, "Corey wants to thank everyone for all of the love and well wishes. He has definitely seen a lot of the messages and really appreciates everything."

In Wednesday's video, Feldman teased that he was already back in the booth working on a new single with a "brand new" sound. "I don't even know what it's called yet, it's that brand new," he said in the video, which was taken in what appeared to be a recording studio. "But I like it, we like it, we're all digging it, it's pretty freaking cool."

The former child star also revealed he has another single coming out on Monday, June 22. "ITS CALLED #WHATAMIHERE4? POIGNANT TIMING EH?" he quipped in the caption.

Pages

Sullivan Independent News

Sullivan Independent News
411 Scottsdale
Sullivan, MO 63080

Phone: 573-468-6511
Fax: 573-468-4046

 

general@sullivannews.net
sports@sullivannews.net
advertising@sullivannews.net
billing@sullivannews.net