Parade

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

DIY home security gives homeowners more control over equipment, installation and cost. But setting up a system correctly involves more than sticking sensors to doors and mounting a few cameras. Poor placement can create gaps in coverage. Weak Wi-Fi may affect camera performance, while overlooked security settings can create unnecessary cybersecurity risks.

ADT now offers both self-setup and professionally installed systems, so homeowners can choose how much of the installation they want to handle themselves. But before installing a DIY security system, you’ll need to watch for these seven common mistakes that reduce coverage or reliability.

If you’re unsure where sensors, cameras or other devices should go, ADT offers a free in-home consultation where a Solutions Advisor can recommend equipment based on your home’s layout and security needs.

What Are the Most Common DIY Home Security Mistakes?

The most common DIY security mistakes involve sensor placement, network connectivity, account security and incomplete coverage. Unfortunately, a system may appear to be working normally even though a sensor is misaligned or a camera isn’t receiving a reliable connection. Let’s take a closer look at each.

DIY Security Mistake

Why It Matters

Poor motion sensor placement

Can reduce useful coverage or contribute to unnecessary alerts

Misaligned door/window sensors

May prevent reliable open-and-close detection

Weak Wi-Fi around cameras

Can interrupt video and connected features

Leaving default router credentials

Makes the home network less secure

Skipping updates or MFA

Leaves connected accounts and devices more vulnerable

Missing secondary entry points

Creates gaps in security coverage

Failing to test the system

Installation problems can go unnoticed

1. Installing Motion Sensors in the Wrong Place

Motion sensors depend on placement. Mounting one where furniture blocks part of its field of view reduces the area it monitors. Locations with frequent movement from pets may also require more careful setup, depending on the sensor.

Before permanently mounting a sensor, review the manufacturer’s placement instructions and test the area it will cover. That extra few minutes during installation is easier than discovering later that an important area wasn’t being monitored as expected.

2. Misaligning Door and Window Sensors

Door and window contacts typically consist of two pieces that must line up when the opening is closed. ADT’s current door and window sensor instructions specify that the sensor and magnet should be no more than ½ inch apart. The alignment marks should also face one another and sit at approximately the same height.

A large gap or poor alignment can interfere with reliable detection.

After mounting each sensor, open and close the door or window several times and confirm that the system correctly reports its status.

3. Mounting Security Cameras Where Wi-Fi Is Weak

A camera’s view isn’t the only thing worth checking before you drill holes into siding or attach a mount. You’ll also need to check the Wi-Fi connection from that location.

Most connected security cameras depend on the home network for features such as live video, recordings and remote access. Exterior walls, distance from the router and other obstacles can weaken the signal.

Moving a camera, even a relatively short distance, may improve connectivity while preserving the view you need.

If you’re concerned about getting sensor and camera placement right, ADT also offers professional installation. A technician can handle equipment setup and testing rather than leaving the entire installation to the homeowner.

4. Leaving Default Router Passwords in Place

A DIY security system isn’t just physical hardware. Cameras and other connected devices also depend on the security of your home network.

The Federal Trade Commission recommends changing default administrative usernames and passwords on home routers and connected devices. They also suggest using unique passwords rather than reusing credentials from other websites or accounts.

For the home router itself, the agency recommends WPA3 or WPA2 encryption and changing both the Wi-Fi password and router administrator password from their defaults.

5. Skipping Two-Factor Authentication and Software Updates

Connected security devices need routine digital maintenance.

The FTC recommends enabling two-factor authentication for security-camera accounts when the feature is available. Two-factor authentication requires another form of verification in addition to the password.

CISA also recommends multi-factor authentication and prompt software updates as basic cybersecurity practices. Updates matter because manufacturers use them to fix security flaws and other problems discovered after a product is released.

Enable automatic updates when supported and keep the mobile app used to manage the security system current as well.

6. Protecting the Front Door but Ignoring Other Entry Points

A starter package may not provide enough sensors for every house.

ADT recommends its door/window sensors for vulnerable entry points such as exterior doors and basement windows. Before ordering equipment, walk around the home and identify accessible openings.

A side door that receives little attention or a door connecting an attached garage to the living space may deserve the same consideration as the front entrance. The same applies to accessible windows that aren’t visible from the street.

7. Installing the System Without Testing Everything

Finishing the installation isn’t the final step.

Test every sensor from its permanent location. Open protected doors and windows, walk through motion-sensor coverage areas and check camera video after mounting the devices. Then, review notifications in the system’s app to confirm that each device is reporting correctly.

Testing also gives you a chance to find weak batteries, poor Wi-Fi connections or equipment that needs repositioning before you rely on the system. ADT’s support guidance includes testing procedures for its self-setup sensors and advises using the appropriate test mode when servicing equipment to avoid unnecessary alarms.

Key Takeaways

A DIY security system works best when every part of it has been installed and verified rather than simply connected. Taking the extra time to verify sensor alignment, secure your Wi-Fi network and test every device guarantees your coverage is dependable from day one.

If you’d rather have professional help designing or installing your home security system, ADT offers free in-home consultations along with professionally installed security options.

In recent years, a few of the Radiohead bandmates have performed as The Smile, a sort of spinoff rock band with a slightly different sound. But rest assured, the original outfit behind Kid A and OK Computer is still very much a thing.

In fact, Radiohead just announced a whole spread of new concerts coming up next year. The only kicker is, all 21 shows will be played overseas.

“Radiohead will play a run of 21 shows next year in Perth, Melbourne and Sydney, Australia, and Saitama, Japan,” reads the caption of the band’s Instagram post on Monday, September 7. “Registration open now via radiohead.com.”

The caption continues to list out the specific dates and venues:

“May 3, 4, 6, 7 – RAC Arena, Perth
May 13, 14, 16, 17, 19, 20 – Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne
May 25, 26, 28, 29, 31, June 1 – Afterpay Arena, Sydney
June 8, 9, 11, 12, 13 – GMO Arena Saitama”

View this post on Instagram

Of course, Radiohead has its devoted fanbase, which means Instagram users didn’t hold back in the post’s comments section to voice reservations about how the band is only visiting two countries. “Hey Radiohead ever heard of a place called the US ?” wrote one user, while another person commented, “Hey @radiohead you ever heard of New Zealand? It’s a bit like Australia but good!”

Rolling Stone reports that the band last performed in Australia in 2012, and last headlined Japan in October 2008, on the In Rainbows tour (They also performed there at the Summer Sonic Festival in 2016).

Fellow Artists Continue to Cover Radiohead

Earlier this summer, Vera Blue’s stripped-down cover of Radiohead’s “Creep” for triple j’s Like A Version left listeners emotionally floored, with fans across social media describing the performance as one of the most moving covers they’ve ever heard.

The Australian singer-songwriter pared the 1992 alt-rock staple down to just guitar, piano and vocals, building from a quiet, restrained opening into a soaring falsetto by the final chorus. Find out more here.

Now a beloved franchise with multiple TV shows, movies, and spinoffs, fans might be surprised to know that the original The Addams Family sitcom that aired in the 1960s was canceled after just two seasons.

The series premiered on September 18, 1964, on ABC, and starred John Astin as Gomez Addams, Carolyn Jones as Morticia Addams, and Jackie Coogan as Uncle Fester. The show ran for 64 episodes, airing its final episode on April 8, 1966.

Related: 1965 Fantasy Sitcom Lasted Just 5 Seasons but Became a TV Staple for Generations

At the time, it registered small Nielsen ratings and built a repeat audience, but it was not enough to keep the series on the air. However, thanks to syndication, The Addams Family developed a cult following.

Reruns of the 30-minute episodes aired worldwide. In 2011, it was picked up by Boomerang and aired there until 2013. Since 2021, the show has also aired on MeTV. The opening theme has also remained an iconic piece of pop culture.

Today, The Addams Family fans continue to gush about the show on social media platforms.

this scene in the halloween episode from the addams family sitcom 😭 pic.twitter.com/lz1VIACd6u

— luz (@vnbvrnt) August 11, 2025

“One of the many things I love about it is that it’s one of the very few family sitcoms of the time that wasn’t just ‘I hate my wife (laugh track),'”one person wrote on Reddit. Another added, “Genuinely a timeless piece of media, I’m currently watching it from start to finish and I don’t [think] I’ve laughed harder at a TV show in years.”

A third chimed in, “They loved each other; they loved their kids. A family who supported each other was unheard of. They supported everyone who set foot in their house.”

On Rotten Tomatoes, The Addams Family currently has a 94 percent rating and has often been compared to the CBS sitcom, The Munsters, which also aired for two seasons in the 1960s.

Jenna Ortega, who plays Wednesday Addams in the Netflix spinoff Wednesday, credited the original Wednesday from the sitcom, Lisa Loring, for inspiring her portrayal.

“Siouxsie Sioux, Bob Fosse’s Rich Man’s Frug, Lisa Loring, Lene Lovich, Denis Lavant, and archival footage of goths dancing in clubs in the ’80’s. Helped me out on this one,” she tweeted.

Reruns for the win!

It’s officially spooky season at Universal Studios, which means Halloween Horror Nights is in full swing.

However, theme parkgoers are sharing a new update on social media about what you can and can’t bring into Universal Studios Hollywood. In particular, a new restriction on outside water bottles.

“For those coming to Universal Halloween Horror Nights Hollywood, you can’t bring in sealed bottled water after 4 p.m.,” one fan tweeted on September 5, 2026. As expected, the update has some guests divided.

“Interesting since Orlando allows a sealed bottle per person… now if it’s opened then you’re out of luck,” one person commented before another added, “Sucks for people wanting to bring in water and snacks to see a movie.”

For those that coming to Universal Halloween Horror Nights Hollywood, you can’t bring in sealed bottled water after 4pm 🎃👻❌🥤 pic.twitter.com/eTu53nPJbV

— Attractions 360° (@SoCal360) September 6, 2026

In 2024, in a blog shared by Universal, guests were encouraged to bring a water bottle to the park. “Plan on packing a small water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the night at HHN, as well as a portable charger and a poncho or small umbrella,” the post read.

However, guests are still able to bring in an empty refillable water bottle, and you can fill it once you are inside the park.

So, what else should parkgoers keep in mind before going to HHN? The theme park shared updated costume guidelines for Premium Scream Night event nights, prohibiting guests from wearing costumes that fully cover their face, costumes that create a false impression that guests work for Universal or emergency personnel, or any prosthetic makeup. Costumes also may not interfere with the security screening.

Halloween Horror Nights runs from August 28 to November 1, 2026. The event is currently in its 35th year and features 10 haunted houses, including one inspired by the movie Sinners and another in honor of late rocker Ozzy Osbourne.

For a seamless entry, it’s better to leave your sealed water bottles at home.

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

A great everyday bag doesn’t have to come with a high price tag. If you’re in the market for a compact, affordable carryall for school runs, quick errands, or your next getaway, Walmart shoppers are loving the Suncoda Sling Bag for its mix of function and style.

Even better, it’s currently on sale for as low as $2, making it an easy add to your cart. Despite its small size, the bag has just enough room for essentials like your phone, wallet, and keys. Plus, it has a comfortable crossbody strap that keeps everything within reach. With 17 colors to choose from, it’s easy to find one that fits your style — or grab a couple while the price is this low.

Suncoda Sling Bag, From $2 at Walmart 

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Made from durable, water-resistant polyester, this unisex bag is built for everyday use. It works just as well for running errands as it does for travel, thanks to its lightweight feel and practical design. The adjustable strap extends from 14 to 36 inches, allowing for a comfortable fit across a range of body types, and it can be worn multiple ways — including as a crossbody, shoulder bag, or backpack.

Inside, multiple compartments keep essentials like your phone, wallet, and keys neatly stored and within reach when you’re on the go. The bag is also compact, measuring just under 12 inches, which makes it a practical choice for family outings, day trips, hiking, or anytime you want to travel light.

“I love this little bag. It’s perfect when I just want to bring a couple things with me,” one reviewer wrote.

Many Walmart shoppers highlight how convenient and functional it is in everyday use. One reviewer shared, “I’m in a wheelchair, so I have trouble carrying a bag. This one fits comfortably over my shoulder. Another added, “If you’re looking for a cute bag at an extremely low price, this is your bag!”

Related: Walmart’s Ribbed Tunic Top Is an Elevated Take on a Fall Layering Staple for Under $15

Whether you’re looking for an easy everyday carryall or just want a simple way to keep your essentials organized, the Suncoda Sling Bag is a great pick. With prices starting at just $2, you’ll want to scoop one up at Walmart in your favorite color before it runs out of stock. 

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.

The late Shelley Fabares was better known for her iconic sitcom roles in the late 50s and 60s, but die-hard fans would know she made her debut as a singer with a 1962 pop song that went No.1.

“Johnny Angel” was a song written and composed by Lyn Duddy and Lee Pockriss, and was first recorded by Laurie Loman and Georgie Lee. Sadly, both their versions failed to gain any attention. It wasn’t until Fabares recorded it that it became a chart sensation.

The 17-year-old actor at the time had gained popularity as the character Mary Stone in The Donna Reed Show, and her character’s storyline was taking a turn. Fabare’s character needed the perfect song, as Mary decided not to pursue college and instead become a singer in Season 4, Episode 20 of the sitcom.

“Johnny Angel” marked the beginning of Fabares’s singing career as her debut track and landed at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It also went to No. 1 on the Cashbox Top 100 and in New Zealand and Canada.

At the time, Fabares admitted that she and her co-star Paul Peterson thought the song was a great idea for the show. With no real singing background, they both hesitated about whether she could get it done.

“Both Paul and I said it was a great idea, but we couldn’t sing. I was adamant. I’m not a singer. I was a very good, very sweet little girl who was not raised to say no, so it took a lot for me to say I can’t do that,” she said in Fred Bronson’s book The Billboard Book of Number One Hits.

In the book, Fabares was also quoted as having been intimidated by Darlene Love and her group, the Blossoms, singing backup vocals on the track. She thought their voices were “beautiful,” but was wary of what it meant to become a recording artist. “Jonny Angel” became Fabares’s biggest hit that lasted on the charts for 15 weeks.

The track’s lyrics told a story many could relate to: a young girl longing for a boy she has a crush on, but him having no idea who she is. Duddy and Pockriss wrote the track in the former’s apartment during a blackout when they had nothing else to do.

“I had always wanted to write a soliloquy – a song written from the point of view of someone who waited on the corner every night for someone to pass by,” Duddy told Billboard.

Pockriss was the one who changed the track’s name from “Seven-thirty” to a man’s name. He added that he chose Johnny out of “thin air,” and it didn’t actually mean anything or relate to anyone they knew. Interestingly, “Johnny Angel” would be their only songwriting credit together.

The song’s popularity led it to be covered by Patti Lynn that same year, and it was a success on the UK charts. A decade later, in 1973, the Carpenters also released their own cover of the song for their fifth album. Fabares would later release a follow-up titled “Johnny Loves Me” and release a few more albums during the 60s.

Related: 1969 Jazz Rock Song, Written by 17-Year-Old Laura Nyro, Is Still a Powerful Hit 57 Years Later

We often pay attention to how outdoor air can affect our lungs—allergies, smoke and the like. However, as a pulmonologist at Hackensack University Medical Center, Dr. Kevin Kim, DO, says he spends much of his time speaking with patients about what they breathe in their homes.

“We spend the vast majority of our time indoors, meaning our indoor air quality directly impacts our respiratory system,” Dr. Kim tells Parade. “Many everyday household items, like cleaning sprays and scented candles, can invisibly release chemicals or mold into the air.”

There’s a lot of talk right now about how the foods we eat and household products can affect everything from our fertility to cancer risk, which can get scary. But Dr. Kim shares that it’s important to understand how household items affect our lungs. If we don’t, he says we could be accidentally triggering asthma, worsening seasonal allergies, or causing long-term inflammation without even realizing the source of the problem.

“Think of your lungs as a giant, incredibly efficient sponge designed to filter air and exchange gases,” Dr. Kim says. “When you take a breath, air travels down your windpipe and into millions of tiny, balloon-like air sacs called alveolar.”

He explains that oxygen from the air crosses into your bloodstream, fueling your body. You exhale carbon dioxide. “Along the way, your airways also act as a natural defense system, using a layer of mucus and tiny hairs to catch and clear out dust, germs and other irritants,” he says.

But we can do our lungs a solid by avoiding airborne toxins that many of us are unintentionally exposing them to. For this reason, Dr. Kim is begging people to stop using one common household item (or at least clean it correctly).

🩺SIGN UP for Parade’s health newsletter with expert-approved tips, healthy eats, exercises, news & more to help you stay healthy & feel your best self💊

The Common Household Item To Stop Using, According to Pulmonologists

Dr. Kim wants people to stop using humidifiers without properly cleaning them.

“Humidifiers add moisture to the air, which can be fantastic for soothing dry airways, preventing nosebleeds and easing cold symptoms during the dry winter months,” he says. “However, if a humidifier isn’t maintained properly, it essentially becomes an efficient delivery system for aerosolized bacteria, mold and other harmful airborne toxins.”

Yikes, right?

“When you breathe in that contaminated mist, the microscopic particles travel deep into your lungs, which can trigger severe inflammation and a host of respiratory illnesses,” Dr. Kim adds.

What Is ‘Humidifier Fever’? (And Other Respiratory Health Risks)

According to Dr. Kim, “humidifier fever” is a non-clinical term for a type of lung inflammation that he says is more accurately described as a humidifier-induced respiratory illness. It’s similar to hypersensitivity pneumonitis.

“It happens when your lungs have an intense inflammatory reaction to breathing in the bacteria or fungi that have grown in a dirty humidifier tank,” he says. “Because it’s an inflammatory response to a contaminated mist, the symptoms usually mimic a sudden flu or a chest infection.” 

Within hours of turning a humidifier on, you might experience:

• Fever
• Chills
• A dry cough
• Shortness of breath
• Chest tightness

Unfortunately, Dr. Kim says humidifiers can also lead to other respiratory issues.

“Aside from ‘humidifier fever,’ running a dirty humidifier can easily trigger asthma attacks and worsen environmental allergies by pumping mold spores and dust mites—which thrive in overly humid environments—into the air you breathe,” he reports.

Related: The Allergy Symptoms Doctors Are Seeing Most Right Now

The Hidden Danger of ‘White Dust’ From Ultrasonic Humidifiers

If you notice “white dust” settling onto furniture when using an ultrasonic humidifier, you’re really looking at aerosolized mineral deposits.

“When you use tap water, the naturally occurring dissolved mineral deposits, such as calcium or magnesium, dry out and these fine mineral particles can be shot into the air along with the water vapor,” Dr. Kim explains. “This is dangerous because these minerals form fine particulate matter (PM2.5) that is small enough to travel deep into your lungs.”

When you inhale these tiny particles, he says they can irritate your lung tissue, trigger asthma or COPD flare-ups and lead to chronic inflammation.

A 2020 study published in Indoor Air showed that using tap water in ultrasonic humidifiers can raise indoor PM2.5 to levels comparable to those in a polluted city.

“This can be prevented by using distilled or demineralized water,” Dr. Kim explains.

How Often Should You Really Clean Your Humidifier?

Clean the humidifier daily. Dr. Kim says “cleaning” means emptying the water, wiping the tank completely dry and refilling it.

“Standing water is a perfect breeding ground for mold and bacteria, and it only takes a couple of days for a slimy biofilm to form inside the water tank,” he tells Parade. “If you don’t clean it frequently, you are risking that your humidifier is spraying germs directly into the air you breathe.”

Dr. Kim adds it’s important to give the entire unit a deep clean weekly.

Related: Here’s How Often You Should Actually Replace Your Shower Curtain, According to Microbiologists

Step-By-Step: How to Properly Clean and Disinfect a Humidifier

You don’t have to ditch your humidifier, but Dr. Kim shares it’s important to clean it regularly for your lung health. Here’s how:

1. Unplug the unit and empty any remaining water from the tank and the base.
2. Take the humidifier completely apart, removing the tank, the filter (if it has one), and any other detachable parts.
3. Fill the tank with a mixture of water and white vinegar (about 1 cup of vinegar to 1 gallon of water) and let it sit for 20 to 30 minutes to break down any mineral scale.
4. Use a soft brush, like an old toothbrush, to gently scrub away any visible residue or slimy buildup in the tank and the base.
5. Rinse all the parts thoroughly with plain tap water until you can no longer smell the vinegar.
6. Let everything air dry completely before putting it back together and refilling it (ideally with distilled water).

When To Replace Your Humidifier Altogether

“As a general rule of thumb, you should replace your humidifier every 3 to 5 years, as the internal motor and parts will naturally start to wear down over time,” Dr. Kim says.

However, there are a few times you should ditch it sooner, such as when:

• You can’t get it clean. If a stubborn white or gray mineral scale won’t come off, no matter how much you scrub with vinegar, it’s time for a new humidifier. “That crusty scale provides a porous surface where bacteria love to hide and multiply,” Dr. Kim reveals.
• There is visible mold or a lingering smell. If you’ve deep-cleaned your tank and it still smells musty, it may be worth ditching it altogether. “Mold has likely infiltrated the internal mechanics or the motor area where you can’t reach it,” Dr. Kim states.
• The plastic is cracked or deeply scratched. Even small cracks can lead to big consequences. “Tiny cracks and scratches in the water tank are practically impossible to clean thoroughly, making them the perfect safe haven for bacterial biofilms to grow,” Dr. Kim says.

Up Next:

Related: Having This in Your Kitchen Can Be a Huge Red Flag for Your Health

Sources:

• Dr. Kevin Kim, DO, a pulmonology specialist with Hackensack University Medical Center
• Particulate matter emitted from ultrasonic humidifiers—Chemical composition and implication to indoor air. Indoor Air.

Julie Andrews just made history for the second year in a row. The icon is now the oldest actress to win a Primetime Emmy, besting her own record from last year’s awards.

Andrews nabbed another win on Sunday, September 6, at the Creative Arts Emmys. The storied actress won the 2026 award for Outstanding Character Voice-Over for her off-screen performance as Lady Whistledown on Netflix’s hit Bridgerton. This is the second year in a row that the 90-year-old actress has won the award for this role. She was also nominated for the Primetime Emmy in this category in 2023, 2022, and 2021. 

Previous wins include a 2005 Outstanding Nonfiction Series Emmy for Broadway: The American Musical and a 1973 award for Outstanding Variety Musical Series (The Julie Andrews Hour).

Andrews rose to fame six decades ago as the title character in the 1964 classic Mary Poppins. The following year (1965) she starred in the now-legendary blockbuster The Sound of Music, solidifying her status as Hollywood royalty. 

English actress and singer Julie Andrews, winner of the award for Best Actress in a Comedy or Musical for her role in ‘Mary Poppins’, at the 22nd Golden Globe Awards, USA, 8th February 1965. (Photo by Archive Photos/Getty Images)

Along with her current Emmy win, Andrews’ career highlights include an Academy Award for Best Actress in a Leading Role in 1965 (Mary Poppins), a Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Motion Picture (Victor/Victoria in 1983), and two Grammy Awards. 

Over her career, Andrews continued to delight fans, appearing in The Princess Diaries (2001), The Princess Diaries 2: The Royal Engagement (2004), and Tooth Fairy (2010). Along with voicing Lady Whistledown on Bridgerton, Andrews has lent her off-screen talents to beloved animated hits such as Shrek 2 (2004), Shrek the Third (2007), and Despicable Me (2010).

Even though Andrews is still winning awards and enchanting fans around the world, she recently told The Hollywood Reporter that she’s taking a step back from on-screen acting: “I think the absolute truth is that I think I’m really past all that now.” 

Andrews continued, explaining, “I’m not completely retired, but it’s a different kind of work that I do these days—books, and I do a lot of recording of podcasts and voiceovers.” She added that while it’s “still lovely to be working on things,” it won’t be on camera. 

Andrews’ career is moving in a different direction, but that doesn’t mean fans have seen the last of the 90-year-old. While she didn’t appear at the 2026 Creative Arts Emmy Awards ceremony (presenter Eric Bauza accepted the award on her behalf), she does have several projects in the works. She recently released ‘Shy’, a children’s book co-written with her daughter, Emma Walton Hamilton, and it is the subject of a new documentary coming to Disney+ in 2027. 

In early March 2020, families were bracing for a frightening spring, and one of the last films to reach theaters before COVID lockdowns was a Pixar story about loss. Onward asks what a person would do with 24 more hours with a parent who is gone, and for the millions who saw it later at home, it seems to have finally found its audeince.

The animated film reached theaters on March 6, 2020. Directed by Dan Scanlon, it follows teenage elf brothers Ian and Barley Lightfoot, voiced by Tom Holland and Chris Pratt, who cast a spell to bring their late father back for a single day and manage to summon only the lower half of him. Julia Louis-Dreyfus and Octavia Spencer fill out a cast built for both comedy and heartache. Within two weeks, cinemas across the country began closing, and the film’s run ended before most audiences bought a ticket.

The box office was the result of the calendar more than the movie. Onward opened to roughly $39 million domestically, the lowest adjusted-for-inflation debut in Pixar’s history, and its second weekend fell about 73 percent as the shutdown spread across the country’s theaters. Disney moved fast, releasing it to digital purchase and then Disney+ on April 3, barely a month after its premiere, as more than 30 markets went dark. Against a production budget near $200 million, it became one of the lowest-grossing films the studio has released.

Related: After 40 Years in TV, Julia Louis-Dreyfus Is Leaping Into Something New

The timing could hardly have been worse. Onward arrived the same weekend the industry still debated whether the virus would dent moviegoing, and by the next weekend that debate was over. A film built for the big screen became a home-viewing title almost overnight.

None of that reflected how the film was received. Onward holds an 88 percent critics’ score and a 95 percent audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, where the critics’ consensus grants that it falls short of Pixar’s best while still working as a warm, sharply animated adventure on its own terms. It sits in the upper half of Rotten Tomatoes’ ranking of every Pixar feature, a list where the studio’s own classics set a steep bar.

Part of the reason it endures is how personal it is. Scanlon built the story around his older brother, Bill; their father died in a car accident when Dan was one and Bill was three, and neither remembered him. As teenagers, the two were handed a scratchy tape of their father’s voice holding only the words “hello” and “goodbye.” That fact runs beneath the fantasy-world jokes about manticores and quest maps, and it took on new meaning for anyone watching in the months after release.

Five years later, Onward has reached the audience its theatrical run never could, passed between families on streaming and climbing Pixar’s critical rankings. Its standing among the studio’s better-reviewed films now offers a fuller account of the movie than the weekend it opened.

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

Brandi Glanville is giving fans another glimpse into the devastating reality of her ongoing health battle, revealing she is spending nearly all of her time at home undergoing IV treatments.

In a new video shared Monday, September 7, The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills alum pointed to one side of her face and said, “This is right where the f—king problem is,” before adding, “I just swear I just wanna cut my face open and take it out.” Glanville, 53, also revealed that she has to sleep on her back and is struggling with the demands of her around-the-clock medical care.

Glanville’s comments come after she revealed in June that doctors had discovered a benign tumor in one of the lymph nodes in her face, which she believed could be contributing to fluid moving around her face. At the time, she was also dealing with the return of what she has described as a facial parasite, a condition that previously caused significant facial disfigurement.

Now, Glanville says her days largely revolve around medical treatments. In a video posted Sunday, she showed herself preparing an IV infusion of imipenem, an antibiotic, explaining that she has to run it overnight for approximately 18 hours while a nurse comes to her home for another four-hour IV treatment.

I never thought this would become my life.
A PICC line. Hours of IV medication. And still fighting to get whatever is in my face OUT.
I know everyone wants to know exactly what I’m dealing with. I’m not ready to share that part just yet.
But I am ready to start showing you what… pic.twitter.com/IG27rR7Qe6

— Brandi Glanville (@BrandiGlanville) September 7, 2026

“The only time I leave my house is to do my podcast,” she said in the video.

Glanville has been dealing with her health problems for roughly three years, first going public with her facial disfigurement in 2024. Since then, she has undergone numerous tests and treatments while trying to determine the cause of the problems affecting her face. In June 2026, she revealed the benign tumor in one of her facial lymph nodes, adding another complication to an already lengthy health battle.

The reality star previously revealed that she had spent more than $113,000 on treatments related to her facial condition. In her latest update, she also acknowledged just how physically taxing the ongoing treatments have become, saying she is extremely thin because she is struggling to eat and telling fans, “I feel like death. I look like death.”

In 1978, Gary Busey took on the role of one of rock & roll’s earliest icons in The Buddy Holly Story, a biographical drama about the meteoric career of Buddy Holly.

Nearly five decades later, the movie has accomplished something remarkably difficult: It still has a perfect 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes.

And Sept. 7 is an especially fitting day to revisit the film. Holly was born on Sept. 7, 1936, meaning the pioneering musician would have turned 90 years old in 2026. He was just 22 when he was killed in a plane crash on Feb. 3, 1959.

Directed by Steve Rash, The Buddy Holly Story follows Holly from his early performances in Lubbock, Texas, through his rapid rise to rock & roll stardom and his final tour.

Busey was 33 when he portrayed Holly, whose life in the movie spans roughly ages 20 to 22. But the actor went to considerable lengths for the transformation, reportedly losing 32 pounds for the role. Even more impressively, the actors performed their own singing and played their own instruments, with Busey recording the soundtrack music live.

His performance became the movie’s calling card.

Related: 26 Years Ago Today, Buddy Holly’s Long-Lost Glasses Were Found 21 Years After Deadly Plane Crash

Roger Ebert of the Chicago Sun-Times praised Busey’s “remarkable performance as Buddy Holly,” while The New York Times critic Vincent Canby described the movie as essentially a “one-man show” driven by Busey’s work.

“”The heart and soul and power of ‘The Buddy Holly Story’ is the uncanny, marrow-deep, robust, exhilarating, likable, superlative, overwhelmingly convincing portrayal by Gary Busey,” wrote the Los Angeles Times’ Charles Champlin.

Busey’s performance earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor, along with Golden Globe and BAFTA nominations. He also won acting honors from the National Society of Film Critics and Los Angeles Film Critics Association. The movie itself won the Oscar for Best Adaptation Score.

The Buddy Holly Story was also a box-office success, earning $14.3 million against a reported $1.2 million budget.

Consequence ranked The Buddy Holly Story No. 43 on its list of the 50 Greatest Rock & Roll Movies of All Time, calling Busey “a revelation” and highlighting the fact that he performed Holly’s songs himself.

That staying power is reflected on Rotten Tomatoes, where The Buddy Holly Story holds a 100% critics score. The film was also included on The New York Times’ list of the Best 1,000 Movies Ever.

For a movie about a rock & roll star whose career was tragically brief, The Buddy Holly Story has enjoyed an awfully long encore.

Related: The Mystery Behind ‘The Day the Music Died’ Gets a New Live Show

Long before genre-bending collaborations became standard practice in modern pop music, Mike Nesmith inadvertently created the blueprint for a late-’80s hip-hop hit.

When The Monkees guitarist penned “Mary, Mary” in 1966, he crafted a bluesy track that showcased his emerging country-rock brilliance. Recorded by the group for their second studio album, the song instantly became a fan favorite, yet never received an official single release.

According to Billboard, Nesmith wrote the song pre-Monkees fame. It was first recorded by the Paul Butterfield Blues Band, landing on its East-West album.

“I hadn’t been writing long, but I was interested in finding a place that was between country and blues,” Nesmith told Rolling Stone. “At the time, I was working for Randy Sparks. He had started a publishing company after his success with the New Christy Minstrels, who were a folk-rock band.”

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

He continued, “He hired me as a writer, and one day in his office, I wrote ‘Mary Mary.’ Frazier Mohawk took it to the Paul Butterfield Blues Band, and they recorded it.”

In 1967, The Monkees tracked the tune for their LP More of the Monkees. However, it wasn’t released as a single in the United States. Rather, it was shared as a cereal-box cutout in the latter part of the decade.

Twenty-two years later, in 1988, Run-D.M.C. discovered the rock track’s infectious drum break and guitar riff. They used it for their rap hit “Mary Mary,” which peaked at No. 29 on Billboard’s Rap chart and No. 75 on the Billboard Hot 100.

So what did Nesmith think of Run-D.M.C.’s version of his country rock tune? He told Rolling Stone, “I just loved their take on it. They changed around the lyrics some, but I didn’t care. The song isn’t exactly deep.”

The timing of the hip-hop cover couldn’t have been better. As Songfacts reported, when Run-D.M.C. released the track in 1988, The Monkees were already experiencing a full-blown pop-culture renaissance. Fueled by MTV’s 1986 rerun marathon, the resurgence introduced their ’60s magic to millions of younger fans and kicked off an iconic reunion tour.

Related: 1970 Solo Hit, Written By Mike Nesmith, Defined Early Country Rock

In the movies, certain characters always seem to know exactly how to express themselves. When someone is upset or having a bad day, there’s usually a perfectly timed line that makes everything better, and somehow, people always know the right words to say to one another. Whether it’s the best friend delivering a heartfelt pep talk; the romantic lead making someone feel loved and understood; or the wise character offering a perfectly timed piece of advice, everything seems to come together in just the right moment.

But in real life? That’s a bit trickier to pull off.

In fact, if you’ve ever found yourself in a situation where a friend or loved one is talking to you, and you suddenly feel tongue-tied, you’re not alone. When you genuinely want to help, it can be surprisingly difficult to know what to say in the moment. You may worry about saying the wrong thing, accidentally making things worse or coming across as dismissive when all you really want to do is help.

To help you feel a little more prepared and give you some words to reach for when the moment comes again, Parade spoke to Dr. Jaime Zuckerman (aka Dr. Z), a licensed clinical psychologist, narcissistic abuse expert and relationship coach. The good news is, she says you don’t need to memorize any complicated responses. Instead, she explains there is a simple three-word phrase that instantly puts someone else at ease when you say it.

Curious to find out what it is and why it can be a great sentence to keep in your back pocket for those moments when someone needs to feel heard? Keep reading!

Related: Psychiatrist Says the 1 Phrase That Instantly Shuts Down a Dismissive Person Isn’t What You Might Think

The 3-Word Secret: Why ‘That Makes Sense’ Instantly Puts People at Ease

Sometimes, the simplest words can have the biggest emotional impact. When someone feels heard and understood rather than judged or corrected, they’re more likely to relax and open up. That’s exactly what happens when you reply to someone by saying, “That makes sense.”

So, why does that short phrase make a person feel at ease? “Saying ‘That makes sense’ validates a person’s experience, feelings and opinions,” Dr. Zuckerman tells Parade.

She notes that the power of the phrase lies in the comfort it can provide, which offers a sense that everything is going to be okay. So, while you’re not necessarily agreeing with the person you’re talking to, you’re showing them that you understand why they see things the way they do. The psychologist explains that this small distinction can lower their defenses and make them feel comfortable enough to keep talking.

“That three-word phrase creates a safe, non-judgmental space for them to express themselves freely,” she reveals.

Related: 13 Surprising Habits That Make You ‘Instantly Likable,’ Psychologists Say

Getty Images

The Neuroscience of Validation: What Happens to the Brain When We Feel Heard?

Why does hearing “That makes sense” feel so reassuring compared to other phrases? The answer goes deeper than simply making someone feel good. When we feel heard and validated, our brains can interpret that experience differently than one of dismissal, criticism or disagreement.

“When a person feels validated, their brain’s response of potential threat or danger is reduced, which decreases the risk for emotional reactivity such as anger, anxiety or defensiveness,” explains Dr. Zuckerman. “When we feel understood, it makes us feel connected. This human connection can result in stress hormones such as cortisol declining, while dopamine and oxytocin may be released, signaling to the body that you are, in fact, safe. Therefore, when we are emotionally dysregulated, we can experience a decrease in logical thinking and judgment; we can become more impulsive, and our problem-solving skills decrease.”

So when you respond with “That makes sense,” you’re doing more than acknowledging someone’s words. You’re giving them the experience of being understood, which can change the emotional tone of the entire conversation you’re having with them. Instead of feeling the need to defend their perspective, they may feel more comfortable staying open, engaged and connected.

Related: If You Commonly Use These 7 Phrases, You’re More Emotionally Intelligent Than You Might Realize, According to a Psychologist

‘That Makes Sense’ vs. ‘I Understand’: The Crucial Difference

At first glance, the responses “I understand” and “That makes sense” may seem interchangeable. However, when someone is sharing a painful, personal or unfamiliar experience with you, the words you choose can change how the rest of the conversation goes, as each phrase can land differently.

“While this depends on the context of the conversation, when someone who has not had a similar or shared experience says ‘I understand,’ it can unintentionally invalidate the other person,” Dr. Zuckerman shares. “It can make their pain or experience feel minimized or misunderstood.”

In other words, saying “I understand” can sometimes imply that you know exactly what someone is going through, even when you haven’t experienced it yourself.

That’s where she says using the power of “That makes sense” comes in.

“In these instances, simply telling a person what they are saying, and the emotions they are experiencing, ‘makes sense’ gives them a sense of safety without judgment,” she states.

By saying “That makes sense” it keeps the focus on their perspective and feelings without claiming to know exactly what their experience is like. It’s a subtle difference, but one that can make someone feel acknowledged rather than misunderstood when you’re talking to them.

Related: Stop Saying These 9 Common Phrases to People Who Are Grieving, Experts Warn

How To Use Validation Phrases in 3 Tough Everyday Scenarios

Knowing why validation works is one thing, but knowing what to say in the moment is another, especially when it comes to different people and different situations. Dr. Zuckerman offers a few examples of how validation can sound in some of the tougher conversations we may find ourselves having with loved ones or friends and coworkers.

• With an anxious friend: “I hear you, and that makes sense. I know you’re going through a lot right now, and I will be right here with you through this.”
• With a defensive partner: “While it was never my intention to hurt you, I see your point, and it makes sense why my behavior was hurtful.”
• With a stressed colleague: “Your frustration makes sense. Let’s work together to see how we can solve this problem.”

Related: Psychologist Says the Most ‘Magnetic’ People in a Room Actually Do These 9 Things

5 Other Phrases Psychologists Use To Build Instant Trust

“That makes sense” is just one phrase that can help someone feel heard and understood. Dr. Zuckerman also recommends a handful of other phrases and approaches for creating a sense of safety, connection and trust.

Here are five examples she suggests, along with why she says each one can be effective. One doesn’t even involve you opening your mouth.

1. “So what I hear you saying is that you feel completely overwhelmed by [specific reason]”

She says it is important that the person feels heard. Repeating what the person has said can do just this.

2. “Your feelings and reaction are understandable and appropriate”

Dr. Zuckerman says this can make the person feel like they aren’t overreacting and that their responses are appropriate to the context.

3. “I see you, and I’m here with you”

She explains that, in emotionally heightened situations, sometimes people can’t articulate what they need or express their emotions and thoughts. Simply being present with the person can lift the burden of having to explain themselves.

4. [Speak with your body language]

While not a phrase, she reveals that body language is critical and can be a silent phrase or a silent but loud way to communicate without involving you having to use actual words.

“Maintaining eye contact and using a calm tone of voice can make someone feel comfortable and safe, which is why body language can be a phrase in itself,” she explains.

5. “Help me to understand what that was like for you”

According to Dr. Zuckerman, this shows genuine effort and concern to try to understand the person’s experience and pain.

Up Next:

Related: Why ‘Just Be Yourself’ Is Actually Terrible Advice, According to a Behavioral Scientist

Source:

• Dr. Jaime Zuckerman (aka Dr. Z) is a licensed clinical psychologist, narcissistic abuse expert and relationship coach. She is also the owner and founder of The Z Group, as well as the author of Find Your Calm.

Let’s be honest: taking a family to a Central Florida theme park these days usually requires a small loan and a master’s degree in spreadsheet budgeting. Between annual price hikes and endless ticket restrictions, finding a deal that actually saves you money feels next to impossible.

Every once in a while, though, a park drops an offer that genuinely makes sense for your wallet.

Case in point: LEGOLAND Florida Resort has quietly introduced a “Buy 2027, Get the Rest of 2026 Free” promotion on its annual passes.

Typically, an annual pass is valid for exactly 12 months from the date you activate it. But if you purchase one during this limited-time window—which runs through October 7, 2026—your pass remains fully valid from the moment of purchase through December 31, 2027.

That works out to nearly 16 straight months of theme park admission for the price of a standard single-year pass.

Related: Legoland’s New Galacticoaster Is Officially Open—and It’s a Total Trip for Your Inner Child

View this post on Instagram Free Access to a Massively Expanded Brick-or-Treat

The best part for families right now is what’s coming up this fall. Because the promotion activates right away, passholders get instant access to Brick-or-Treat: Monster Party, LEGOLAND’s signature family-friendly Halloween celebration.

Unlike many neighboring Orlando parks that charge steep separate admission tickets for evening Halloween parties, Brick-or-Treat is completely included with general park admission and passes. Even better, as reported by AllEars, this year’s Brick-or-Treat has expanded by 50 percent, growing to 18 event days running across select dates from September 5 through October 31.

That means passholders can drop in for trick-or-treat trails, live character stage shows, and themed monster encounters on any of the following dates without spending an extra dime:

• September: 5–6, 12, 19, and 26
• October: 3–4, 9–11, 16–18, 23–25, and 30–31

Beyond spooky season, the extended runway also rolls straight into the resort’s winter holiday festivities, New Year’s celebrations, and next summer’s brick-building lineups.

Related: Popular Theme Park to Launch First New Roller Coaster in 20 Years

How the Tiers Break Down

The limited-time offer applies across the resort’s three annual pass tiers, making it surprisingly accessible even for casual weekend day-trippers:

• Standard Pass ($179): Includes admission to LEGOLAND Florida Theme Park, PEPPA PIG Theme Park, and the SEA LIFE Florida Aquarium (select blockout dates apply).
• Preferred Pass ($249): Gives you unlimited admission to all four parks (including the LEGOLAND Water Park), free standard parking, and exclusive food and beverage discounts.
• Premium Pass ($299): Adds in four free “Bring-a-Friend” tickets per year, one complimentary Fastrack One Shot ride access per visit, and admission to more than 20 Merlin regional attractions nationwide.

Considering a single-day dated ticket to LEGOLAND Florida often hovers around $80 to $100+ per person, visiting just twice between now and the end of 2027 completely pays for the investment.

If you have kids or grandkids in that sweet-spot elementary age bracket—or simply want a low-stress, crowd-friendly Florida alternative with built-in seasonal events through late 2027—locking in an annual pass before October 7 might just be the smartest theme park move you make all year.

Related: Major Theme Parks Now Included on ClassPass in Huge Expansion 

In 1985, there was no one more on top of the Hollywood hill than Michael J. Fox. At the time, the young comedian was killing it as Alex P. Keaton on the beloved sitcom Family Ties when he got the opportunity of a lifetime. Fox was approached to replace teen heartthrob Eric Stoltz in a little film called Back to the Future, which would ultimately define and solidify the TV actor’s film career.

The movie has become something of a classic decades later, with memorable scenes and lines that have transcended generations. There are so many iconic moments that immediately come to mind, from Fox’s epic run in the time-traveling DeLorean to his standout solo at the “Enchantment Under the Sea Dance.” One of those iconic scenes is when Marty (Fox) dons a “space outfit” and blasts his father George (Crispin Glover) with a shredding guitar solo someone in the ’50s never would have experienced, in an effort to convince him to go along with his plan to ask out his mom.

What many don’t know is that the face-melting guitar solo was actually provided by an uncredited Eddie Van Halen.

Related: ‘Back to the Future’ Star, 61, Makes Rare Public Appearance and Looks Utterly Ageless

How Eddie Van Halen’s Solo Work Ended Up in ‘Back to the Future’

According to ScreenRant, the band Van Halen actually turned down the studio’s request to use their full music catalog in the film. The guitarist’s work ended up being featured through a clever loophole instead. In the scene, Marty loads a cassette tape into a Walkman labeled “Edward Van Halen” as a workaround, but the music was very much his. In fact, Eddie had previously co-written the score for Universal’s The Wild Life in 1984, and the riff featured in Back to the Future was an unreleased outtake cut from that project.

Now, if you were hoping that there was a secret, full-length Van Halen track the riff was pulled from, sadly there is not.

According to TMZ, Eddie confirmed his involvement but admitted it was just him “playing a bunch of noise.”

It was a fun movie detail that Fox himself felt proud of.

“This will sound strange, but Eddie Van Halen passed away the other day, and he had a cameo in Back To The Future,” he told The Guardian in 2020, right after the prolific guitarist’s untimely death. “My kids found a picture of me from 1985 with Eddie Van Halen, where I look 12, and he looks 14, and I thought, ‘What a cool life I’ve lived, where my kids can find a picture of me with Van Halen on the internet.’ It’s like looking back on footprints in the sand. Look where I’ve been.”

Decades later, this film continues to prove itself as the gift that keeps on giving.

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

With the Labor Day holiday here, many soap fans are wondering which of their favorite daytime dramas will continue. Find out which soap operas are airing new episodes, which are airing classic repeats, and where you can catch all the juicy drama today.

Beyond the Gates – CBS

Beyond the Gates will NOT be airing a brand new episode, instead opting to repeat an episode from earlier this summer. The CBS soap will air Episode #301, which originally aired on June 4, 2026.

Fans will remember this episode for the moment when Hayley and Randy discuss how their con against Bill began.

Andre consoles Dani while she takes a tough stroll down memory lane.

Meanwhile, Bill ruminates on both his past and present romantic relationships.

Chelsea and Naomi compare notes on their parents’ rocky marriage.

Fans can catch up on all the drama from Beyond The Gates, with all episodes streaming now on Paramount+.

The Bold and the Beautiful– CBS

The Bold and the Beautiful will be airing a brand new episode today! An unexpected dinner catches Steffy Forrester (Jacqueline MacInnes Wood) and Carter Walton (Lawrence Saint-Victor) off guard.

Katie Logan (Heather Tom) tries to keep an open mind about her son Will Spencer’s (Crew Morrow) love life.

Coronation Street – BritBox / YouTube

A brand new episode of Corrie streams today on BritBox and YouTube. Roy makes a timely decision to check on an unwell Carla; Sarah catches an exchange between Daniel and Daisy; Evelyn applies to university; and Cassie delights in winding up Tracy.

Days of Our Lives – Peacock

Days of Our Lives will be streaming a new episode today. In the episode, Joy puts Alex in a difficult position; Paulina supports Chanel through her treatment.

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

EastEnders– BritBox

A brand new episode of EastEnders will be broadcast today! In the episode, it’s the day of Cindy and Max’s wedding and Kim and Howie’s wedding. Zoe encourages Tommy to open up.

Emmerdale– BritBox / YouTube

A brand new episode of Emmerdale streams today on BritBox and YouTube. In the episode, Sarah’s world is shattered as she grapples with the truth after Charity’s shocking reveal. Lewis is excited. Caleb looks hot under the collar.

General Hospital – ABC

General Hospital will air a planned repeat originally broadcast on February 20, 2026, that paid tribute to the late Anthony Geary following his tragic death last year.

Hollyoaks – YouTube

Hollyoaks is off today here in the USA! The soap posts global episodes on YouTube Tuesday through Thursday every week, so new episodes return tomorrow, September 8, 2026.

The Young and the Restless – CBS

CBS’s most-watched soap opera will be airing a brand new episode today, with Victoria and Kyle giving in to temptation; Matt Clark shares his plans for redemption with Phyllis, and Jack and Diane’s trip goes from bad to worse.

Related: 47 Years After Its Finale, a Classic CBS Soap Is Getting a Digital Reboot

Kelsey Grammer has a pretty favorable prediction for Donald Trump’s place in American history—and the internet is wasting no time weighing in.

The Frasier star, who has long identified as a Republican, told LBC that he believes Trump will “probably” be remembered as one of America’s best presidents.

“Because nobody really stood up for America in quite some time in the presidency,” Grammer said, also praising Trump’s patriotism and knowledge of U.S. history.

Grammer said he believes Trump “loves America” and reflected on why he thinks the president responds so forcefully to his critics.

“He says if somebody comes at him, if they come at him with hate, which they really have done, he just sends it right back at them,” Grammer said. “And I think that throws them off.”

Grammer’s comments quickly drew criticism online, with one social media user saying the actor “really came out at this in all the wrong angles.”

Commenters responding to LBC’s X post also largely disagreed with Grammer’s assessment. “Delusional as Trump will be remembered as the worst president. Also it’s never been America first, just Trump first,” one person wrote.

Several others said Grammer’s comments would affect their willingness to support his work. “Kelsey is a fantastic actor and an idiot otherwise. He can’t give specifics on what he is saying,” another commenter wrote.

Trump remains a deeply polarizing political figure, with critics objecting to policies including his administration’s hard-line immigration measures and efforts to expand the use of executive authority. His administration has also faced numerous legal challenges, including recent court battles over immigration and voting policies.

Another X user criticized Grammer’s assessment more directly, writing, “Waging a war of choice in Iran, causing mass casualties, and spiking inflation isn’t ‘standing up for America.’” The commenter added, “History won’t remember this as greatness, but as a disaster.”

The backlash wasn’t limited to X, either. Grammer’s praise for Trump has drawn criticism across social media, with users on other platforms also questioning his assessment of the president and expressing disappointment with the longtime Frasier star’s political views.

The tarot card connected to your birth date may reveal clues about your past life, according to expert numerologists and tarot readers.

Have you ever wondered who you might have been in a past life? Have you ever felt inexplicably drawn to a certain place, time period, or way of life?  Or maybe you have a skill set or talent that feels almost predestined, as if you have been doing this for much longer than is seemingly possible? Read on to discover more.

Your Past Life, According to Tarot and Numerology

Both tarot and birth date numerology can offer spiritual insight into the experiences your soul may have retained from one lifetime into the next. By reducing your birth date to a single digit and pairing its numerological meaning with the energy of the corresponding tarot card, we can imagine the roles, lessons, and experiences that may have influenced you before this current lifetime. Read on to discover the tarot card that reveals who you may have been in a past life, based on the date you were born.

Each Birth Date’s Past Life Tarot Card

Check your birth date. Disregard birth months.

1st, 10th, 19th, or 28th: The Magician

If you were born on a date that reduces to 1, The Magician suggests you may have been an inventor, artisan, healer, or entrepreneur in a past life. Independent and self-motivated, the energy of 1 belongs to those who simply cannot wait for someone else to give them permission or open the door that leads them to their destiny! This group creates their own opportunities, and the Magician reflects this same resourcefulness. The ultimate manifestor, this card represents someone who knows how to work with the tools available to them to bring an idea to life. You may have spent a previous lifetime mastering a particular craft or creating something entirely your own, and some of that ingenuity may have followed you into this one. If you’ve always felt compelled to do things your own way, perhaps your soul has had plenty of practice.

2nd, 11th, 20th, or 29th: The High Priestess

The High Priestess suggests that those born on a date that reduces to 2 may have served as a spiritual advisor, oracle, healer, or keeper of sacred knowledge in a past life. Ruled by the Moon, the number 2 is highly intuitive and sensitive to everything happening around them. The High Priestess represents mystery, inner wisdom, and our subconscious minds. Perhaps people once sought you out for guidance, trusted you with their secrets, or relied on your ability to sense what others could not understand. That connection to the unseen may still reveal itself today through strong gut instincts, vivid dreams, or the ability to instantly read new people, places, and situations.

3rd, 12th, 21st, or 30th: The Empress

Those born on a date that reduces to 3 may have lived a past life devoted to creativity and beauty. The Empress suggests you could have been an artist, gardener, designer, craftsperson, or someone who created a beautiful and welcoming home for others. In numerology, 3 is associated with imagination and self-expression, while The Empress represents creativity, abundance, and our connection to nature. Perhaps you were always making something, whether you were growing food, sewing clothing, painting, writing, or simply finding ways to make everyday life more beautiful. If being creative brings you a sense of joy today, it may be an art your soul has been practicing for lifetimes.

4th, 13th, 22nd, or 31st: The Emperor

The Emperor suggests that those born on a date that reduces to 4 may have held a position of authority in a past life. Maybe you were a community leader, landowner, builder, or someone responsible for maintaining order and providing stability for a large family or group of people. The number 4 is associated with structure, discipline, and strong foundations, qualities echoed by The Emperor’s dependable and commanding energy. Others may have relied heavily on your judgment and sound wisdom because you made them feel safe. If you instinctively take charge when no one else knows what to do or feel most secure when there’s a solid plan in place, you may be carrying some of that leadership experience into this lifetime.

5th, 14th, or 23rd: The Fool

If you were born on a date that reduces to 5, The Fool suggests you may have been a traveler, explorer, performer, or free spirit in a past life. The number 5 needs freedom and new experiences, and the Fool represents adventure and having the bravery to embark upon an unknown path. You may have spent a previous lifetime moving from place to place, meeting people from different walks of life, and living unconventionally. You could have even left behind the life that was expected of you in search of something more exciting and more aligned with your heart! If you still feel happiest when discovering somewhere new, taking a chance, or following your curiosity just to see where it leads, that adventurous spirit may have traveled with you into this lifetime.

6th, 15th, or 24th: The Lovers

Those born on a date that reduces to 6 may have lived a past life defined by a great love or an important commitment to others. The number 6 is associated with relationships, family, and devotion. The Lovers is a card of meaningful connections as well as the choices we make from our hearts. Perhaps you devoted your life to a partner, raised a large family, served as a caregiver, or made a significant sacrifice for someone you loved. Your relationships and your values may have influenced the entire course of that lifetime! If love, loyalty, and your personal code of ethics remain among your greatest priorities today, they could be lessons your soul has learned in other lifetimes.

7th, 16th, or 25th: The Hermit

The Hermit suggests that those born on a date that reduces to 7 may have spent a past life devoted to the pursuit of knowledge. In a past life, you may have embarked upon a solo journey to learn and gain clarity. You might have been in a profession that required solitude, such as a scholar, philosopher, or a monk. In numerology, 7 is an introspective number associated with seekers, thinkers, and mystics, and in Tarot, the Hermit is a card of soul-searching and solitude. If you still need a lot of alone time, find yourself endlessly researching whatever captures your interest, or have always felt compelled to understand why, your soul may simply be continuing a very old search for answers.

8th, 17th, or 26th: Strength

Those born on a date that reduces to 8 may have someone who stood up for others in a past life. The number 8 is associated with power, ambition, and resilience, and the Strength card represents courage and the ability to remain calm in the face of adversity. This powerful energy could have been expressed in so many ways in a past life; maybe you were responsible for defending a community, speaking on behalf of those without a voice, or guiding others through an especially challenging period. Whatever role you played, this lifetime likely required you to discover just how strong you could be while still maintaining your compassion. If you’re the person others turn to in a crisis, that strength may be something that has been with you beyond just this lifetime.

9th, 18th, or 27th: The World

As the final single digit in numerology, 9 represents completion. This energy pairs well with the World, the final card of the Major Arcana, which represents a full-circle moment with the successful end of a long journey as well as the good feelings and satisfaction that come along with this achievement. Those born on a date that reduces to 9 may have lived a past life that exposed them to many different people, places, and perspectives, potentially as a world traveler, humanitarian, or diplomat. If you’ve always felt like an old soul, are fascinated by other cultures, or feel most like yourself when jet-setting, it could be because you have sought out a greater worldview through the thrill of numerous voyages many times over.

UP NEXT:

With the Labor Day holiday here, soap opera fans often wonder whether their favorite series will air new episodes or air a classic repeat. CBS has revealed the fate of The Bold and the Beautiful, and we have the answer below.

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

Is The Bold and the Beautiful Airing New Episodes on Labor Day? “Episode 1.9827” — Coverage of the CBS Original Daytime Series The Bold and the Beautiful, scheduled to air on the CBS Television Network. Pictured: Logan Model. Photo: Bahareh Ritter/CBS ©2026 CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

YES! CBS’s top-rated soap opera will be airing a brand new episode on Labor Day! Unlike other soaps that opted to air repeats, The Bold and the Beautiful will continue entertaining viewers with brand new content.

What Will Happen on The Bold and the Beautiful Today?

Spoilers for the week indicate that on Monday, September 7, 2026 - Episode 9859

An unexpected dinner catches Steffy Forrester (Jacqueline MacInnes Wood) and Carter Walton (Lawrence Saint-Victor) off guard. 

Katie Logan (Heather Tom) tries to have an open mind when it comes to her son, Will Spencer’s (Crew Morrow), love life.

Where to Watch The Bold and the Beautiful? “Episode 9824” Coverage of the CBS Original Daytime Series The Bold and the Beautiful, with guest Nischelle Turner, scheduled to air on the CBS Television Network. – Pictured: Jacqueline MacInnes Wood, Brayan Nicoletti, John McCook, Nischelle Turner, Delon De Metz, Laneya Grace and Thorsten Kaye. Photo: Matthew Taplinger/CBS ©2026 CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Fans can watch brand new episodes of The Bold and the Beautiful weekdays on CBS and streaming weeknights on Paramount+.

Viewers can catch up on all of the drama from the very beginning of The Bold and the Beautiful on the series official streaming platform BBTV, where they can also see never-before-seen content, including audition tapes and more behind-the-scenes content.

Additional previous episodes of The Bold and the Beautiful have remained free on the official The Bold and the Beautiful YouTube channel.

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

It’s no secret that the transition from steamy summer to crisp fall weather can be tricky. The real sartorial challenge is deciding what to wear when Mother Nature can’t quite make up her mind. One day you’re reaching for a lightweight top and the next you’re searching for a sweater. Adding a few versatile wardrobe staples to the mix can help bridge the gap between seasons.

From classic button-downs and cozy cardigans to jeans and cute shoes that go with just about everything, these are the pieces that can carry you through those unpredictable weeks when summer is still hanging on and fall is just creeping its way in. Even better? Our favorite transitional fall fashion finds are so timeless, you’ll wear them for years to come.

Gazelle Bold Shoes, From $72 (were $120) at adidas

Courtesy of Adidas

Shop at Adidas

You cannot go wrong with a pair of Adidas kicks — especially a pair that’s as classic as these. From the instantly recognizable trio of stripes to the distinctive round toe, the sneakers exude fashionably sporty vibes from every angle. A modernized take on the original, they have a chunky platform sole that adds just a hint of height to your frame. They’ll go with everything, from your favorite fall denim to your coziest joggers.

Trendy Queen Oversized Cable-Knit Sweater, From $27 (was $37) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at Amazon

Like something lovingly knit by your grandmother, this chunky cable knit is all you need to stay toasty when winds pick up. Blended with cotton and acrylic, it’s both soft and substantial, with just enough thickness to lock in warmth without feeling overly heavy. One shopper said it has a “classic Gilmore Girls vibe — perfect for cozy, small-town-chic outfits.” 

Levi’s 94 Baggy Wide-Leg Jeans, $42 (were $85) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at Amazon

We love a wide-leg silhouette, especially when it’s as beautifully made as these Levi’s jeans. The legs are bold without feeling exaggerated, providing just the right amount of balance for a fitted top or a cropped jacket. The effect is effortlessly cool, and especially ideal for those off-duty days when you want to look pulled together without actually dressing up. The wider leg lends them just the right amount of polish!

T Tahari Crop Faux Suede Jacket, $40 (was $108) at Nordstrom Rack

Courtesy of Nordstrom Rack

Shop at Nordstrom Rack

Speaking of pieces that pair well with cropped jackets, this one looks like it was hand-picked for a busy fall. The faux suede is “rich and stunning,” according to a reviewer, and another person described the look as “classy.” The vibe here is effortlessly cool, with a relaxed fit that makes it a great partner for anything from jeans to tailored trousers.

Scenario Lightweight Cardigan, $20 at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

There’s nothing like a simple cardigan to put the right finishing touch on fall outfits. This one epitomizes effortless, everyday style with its V-neckline and front-button closure. It’s just slightly slouchy, but not so much that it looks sloppy. A reviewer described it as the ideal layering piece, noting that the cotton and nylon fabric is “comfortable.”

GAP Poplin Big Shirt, $34 (was $70) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at Amazon

A crisp button-down is one of those pieces you’ll wear forever — and this one is so versatile and seasonal that you’ll reach for it year-round. Its loose and airy fit makes it a cinch for layering over a tee or under a blazer. It also pairs well with slim-fit pants or jeans, joggers, and even shorts.

Dream Pairs Mary Jane Flats, From $27 at Walmart and Amazon

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart Shop at Amazon

Mary Janes are having a major moment, and this pair nails the look with its sleek silhouette and square toe. It’s available in a variety of colors, including easy neutrals like black and white alongside snazzy options like jazzy red and brilliant silver. Shoppers said they appreciated that roomy toe box, and one person even compared them to a “high-end” shoe.

Dr. Scholl’s Rate Short Boots, $45 (were $95) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at Amazon

Booties like these instantly pull together any outfit, especially if you’re looking for an alternative to heels and sneakers. The micro silhouette is sleek and contemporary, adding a fresh touch to your off-duty jeans and tees and your polished tights and dresses. A low-profile heel coupled with the classic Dr. Scholl’s comfort-forward aesthetic make these a joy to wear from day to evening.

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.