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When most people think of a Costco membership, they probably picture oversized carts stacked with bulk items, jumbo snack packs, and enough paper goods to last a whole year. But according to savvy shoppers on Threads, the warehouse giant offers SO much more than just bulk buys, and the internet is taking notes—heck… we’re taking notes.

In a viral post, Threads user @selmamakescents broke down the true value behind Costco’s $65 annual fee, revealing a surprising list of perks that go well beyond the aisles. From travel deals to insurance discounts, the thread sparked a debate among members eager to share their favorite ways to maximize their subscriptions.

Here’s a look at some of the best benefits.

Affordable eye exams and optical services

Costco’s optical department is a major draw for budget-conscious shoppers. According to the post, eye exams typically cost between $70 and $100 without insurance, and frames and lenses are often significantly cheaper than competitors. Members can even receive complimentary frame adjustments on glasses purchased elsewhere.

“2 sets of progressive contact lenses at the optometrist: $350. 6 sets of exactly the same lenses at Costco: $78,” one user shared of their experience.

Another stated, “This alone is worth it. Eye doctor told my husband his glasses would be between $600 and $700. Costco price: $279.”

View on Threads

Major prescription discounts

Another standout perk is the Costco Member Prescription Program, which can offer savings of up to 80 percent on medications. 

“No insurance required. People WITH solid insurance sometimes find Costco’s cash price still beats their copay,” the original poster shared.

And it goes beyond humans too, as one shopper pointed out, “About 5 years ago, our Vet gave us a prescription for our dog. I checked the local pharmacies and the cost was a little over $140 a month. Costco was $10.50.”

It’s also worth noting you don’t technically even need a membership for this. “Prescriptions can be purchased without a membership,” one user said.

READ MORE: Trader Joe’s Beauty Dupes Shoppers Swear Are Better Than the Luxe Originals

Lower gas prices that definitely add up

Costco fuel stations are consistently cheaper than nearby competitors, making them a go-to for frequent drivers. For many members, the savings at the pump alone can offset the cost of an annual membership.

And if you’re a Citi member, that perk goes even farther. “If you get their Citi card, you’d get 5% cash back on their cheap gas too,” a shopper shared, with another adding on: “And that reward check every year can be cashed at the store for cash!!”

Their travel department might be the best kept secret

Costco Travel is often described as one of the retailer’s best-kept secrets. Members gain access to discounted vacation packages, cruises, hotels, and rental cars, often bundled with perks. “Resort credits range from $50 to $200 depending on the property. Many deals include waived resort fees that can save $30 to $50 PER NIGHT. Some packages include free specialty dining too,” the OP wrote.

One traveller revealed, “I went to cabo and even got a $300 gift card to Costco for booking,” while another said, “sometimes they offer credits with the trips which can be a great benefit.”

Insurance options at member-only rates

From home and auto to renters, life, pet, and business coverage, Costco offers a wide range of insurance products at discounted rates. Some life insurance policies even provide coverage of up to $5 million with lower introductory premiums.

One impressed member shared, “Their auto and renters insurance are amazing!! When I switched to them I saved about $300 on my six month premium. It’s lowered every renewal, including my most recent that is $32 lower. I was sure it was going to be higher this time.”

Another explained their first hand experience, writing, “Our home owners insurance through Costco treated us so well when our basement flooded.”

READ MORE: Costco Hit With New Lawsuit That Could Impact Millions of Members

Home improvement made easy

Planning a renovation? Costco connects members with trusted professionals for projects ranging from kitchen and bathroom remodels to flooring, windows, HVAC systems, and more.

One member who recently got her windows replaced shared her story. “Also when you book and pay through Costco, you get 10% back on a Costco card. $50k in windows through Costco, you get $5k back. Plus if you’re an exec member, you get that 2% back on your yearly check,” they revealed of their major savings.

Exclusive discounts on rentals and photo services

Members can score 25 percent off Budget Truck rentals and up to 51 percent off Shutterfly orders. The original poster shared that “one cross town move and the membership fee pays for itself outright.”

And if you need storage, one shopper shares that Costco offers “a big discount on storage/moving pods!”

Yes, even caskets

Look, no one wants to think about this, but perhaps the most surprising perk of all is that Costco sells caskets, starting at around $1,300 with shipping included. The OP notes that funeral homes are legally required by the FTC to accept caskets purchased elsewhere, making it an unexpected but practical option.

“I bought a casket at Costco. The funeral home was about $5k +, and from. Costco, it was $2k, including delivery to the funeral home. Very seamless transaction, highly recommend, if you were to ever need one,” one user shared of her experience.

A second added, “My late husband was buried in a Costco coffin. I’m completely serious. The funeral home prices are absolutely madness, and he was a frugal man. He’d be pleased that I didn’t get ripped off. And they are quite nice coffins too.”

Season 29 of The Voice: Battle of the Champions was a horse of a different color. There were no live shows and the winner was voted on by an audience comprised of superfans and former The Voice contestants. That said, they did an excellent job in selecting 31-year-old soulful singer Alexia Jayy from Team Adam Levine as the champion.

During her Blind Audition, the singer from Irvington, AL, delivered a performance that showcased her rich, soulful tone and undeniable vocal control, with the classic Aretha Franklin ballad “(You Make Me Feel Like) a Natural Woman.” It earned her a three-chair turn. And once on Team Adam, Alexia continued to pick monster hits like Whitney Houston’s “You Give Good Love” and “I Never Loved a Man (The Way I Loved You),” also by Aretha, to cement her status as one of the best vocalists in the history of The Voice. But it was her performance of Adele’s “One and Only” in the finale that earned her The Voice crown.

Parade got an exclusive interview with The Voice Season 29 winner Alexia the morning after her win.

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You were a three-chair turn, so you could have had any of the coaches. Yes, your son said he was a Maroon 5 fan but was there more to your decision to go with Adam?
I love the fact that he said, “Let's do something different.” I have always listened to all genres of music. I think that's what makes my sound and I feel like Adam is like that in similar ways, and so when he said let's do something different, it set off a lightbulb in my head, and I was like, “Yeah, you know what? Let's do something different.”

Related: The Winner of The Voice Season 29 (2026) Is Revealed

This season was filmed last summer. How hard has it been to keep the secret? And now that it's revealed, what's the plan?
It was really, really hard for me and my mom to hold that secret because she is a proud mom and she wanted to scream it to the world, but she couldn't. I had to fuss at her numerous times, but she did a good job, and I'm proud of her.

I just want to keep singing and keep getting on these stages, keep doing them. I just put a new single out called “Rent Free” last night after the show, and so we're just going to keep kicking out music and keep singing.

Tell me a little bit about this single. Why did you choose that as your first song? Does it have special meaning to you?
I think what it was for me, I felt like everybody, anybody could relate to that song because everybody's been in a situation where they were really down bad, and the people that they thought loved them were not around at that time, and when they got to a good space, that's when everybody came around. So, I feel like anybody can relate to that. That's why I chose “Rent Free.”

The voting process was different this season. America didn't get to vote. What was it like knowing that you were going to be voted on by your peers, people who have been on the show previously?
It was a lot of pressure, but I did enjoy the fact that the superfans and the alumni were able to vote because being in the room is so different from watching it on TV. You can feel it more when you're in the room, and so I was excited that they were able to vote.

You selected songs for your performances from really powerful women like Whitney Houston, Aretha Franklin, Patty LaBelle and Adele. That takes hutzpah. Were you feeling confident tackling these monster songs?
No, I was nervous. I don't even want to lie to you. I was, “Oh, my God.” It was so nerve-wracking, but because I’ve loved these people since I was a little girl, I was happy that I was able to get up there and sing the songs. I've been singing these songs since I was a kid, and to be able to get on a big stage and do it was amazing.

Related: Kelly Clarkson and John Legend Break Down The Voice’s Shocking Voting Twist: ‘It’s a Different Ballgame’ (Exclusive)

When they announced the prize last night, they talked about giving you a home studio. What are you looking forward to about having that as your prize?
I'm so excited about it. That means I get to sit in that room and I get to record all day long.

Will you be looking for a record deal, or do you want to stay independent?
I haven't really made that choice yet. I am just waiting and seeing what comes on the table and we'll go from there.

We have an idea of who your favorite artists are. But what kind of music do you want to release?
R&B. I love pop music. I wouldn't even mind featuring on a country song. I'm from Alabama, so real country over here. I love all music. Right now, I'm doing RB and soul. I hope you guys love and feel everything that I put into my music.

The Voice will return with Season 30 later this fall on NBC.

Next, Is The Voice Returning for Season 30? Auditions Are Already Open!

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are promoting their philanthropic efforts during their Australian tour, but they’re also taking some opportunities to make money of their own. 

The Duchess of Sussex, 44, surprised contestants as a guest judge on MasterChef Australia during filming in Melbourne on April 15, Australia's 10 News reported. Meghan has been tapping into food and lifestyle content with her brand As Ever and her Netflix show With Love, Meghan. 

RELATED: Royal Traditions and Protocols That Range From Strange to Downright Weird

A preview of the royal’s appearance was shared via Instagram by 10 News, which called her a “passionate foodie.” The clip showed judge Poh Ling Yeow announcing Meghan’s arrival before the royal stepped out in a stylish monochromatic black blouse and skirt.

"We've had MasterChef royalty in the kitchen before, but nothing like this," Ling Yeow said with a big smile on her face. "All the way from sunny California, please welcome to MasterChef Australia, the Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle!" 

https://www.instagram.com/reels/DXJNtJaEm3s

While Meghan loves food and has proven her cooking skills, her fun appearance on MasterChef Australia came with a nice payday. MasterChef Australia judges are among the highest-paid television personalities in the country, and many high-profile celebrities, including Gordon Ramsay, Katy Perry, and Jamie Oliver, have made guest cameos on the series. 

Perry, 41, reportedly got paid $100,000 for her season 12 appearance in 2020, which was filmed while she was in Australia for the ICC Women's T20 World Cup. Although Meghan’s appearance fee for MasterChef Australia has not been revealed, it’s reasonable that it would follow suit as another major celebrity appearance. 

MasterChef Australia is not the only money-making venture Meghan and husband Prince Harry, 41, will be doing during their four-day trip down under. The former Suits actress is slated to be a keynote speaker during the “Her Best Life” women’s wellness retreat in Sydney on April 17. Event co-host Gemma O’Neill divulged that Meghan is planning on being very candid during her on-stage chat.

“I’ve literally just got off a Zoom with Meghan. It couldn’t have been any more kind of real. I just immediately loved chatting to her,” O’Neill said via Instagram on April 10 after a planning call with the former senior royal.

RELATED: Princess Diana's Heartwarming Quotes About Motherhood

O’Neill teased that Meghan was “really looking forward” to joining event goers, who paid between $2,699 and $3,199 for tickets, during the retreat. O’Neill added, “She was like, ‘Let’s just have a real chat, woman to woman, let’s just go for it.’”

Meghan isn’t the only one working during their trip; Harry is expected to be the keynote speaker at the InterEdge Summit on April 16, discussing workplace mental health and leadership.

The Sussexes visited Australia in 2018 while they were newlyweds and senior working royals. The couple stepped back from their duties with the royal family in 2020 and relocated to California. Since their last visit, they've also become parents to their son, Prince Archie, and their daughter, Princess Lilibet.

MasterChef is back this spring for Season 16. But it’s shaking up things as it does every season with a new theme: "Global Gauntlet," which sounds international, but more information on that to come.

Award-winning chef and executive producer Gordon Ramsay will return as a host and judge alongside renowned restaurateur Joe Bastianich. And returning for her second season is James Beard Award-nominee Tiffany Derry.

“MasterChef remains a standout series for FOX, drawing its dedicated fanbase back season after season to witness amateur cooks transform into culinary masters,” said Yasmin Rawji, executive vice president of unscripted at Fox Entertainment, on renewing the series. “Gordon Ramsay, Joe Bastianich and Tiffany Derry provide culinary expertise, mentorship and heart and we can’t wait to see what they, as well as our partners at Endemol Shine North America, have in store for Seasons 16 of MasterChef.”

Here's everything we know so far about MasterChef Season 16, including release date, theme and judges.

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When is the MasterChef  Season 16 release date in 2026?

Season 16 of MasterChef will be released on April 16, 2026.

What time is MasterChef on?

MasterChef will continue to air at 8 p.m. ET/PT on FOX.

What is the theme for MasterChef  Season 16?

This year’s theme, "Global Gauntlet," promises a massive, worldwide theme.

Who are the MasterChef  Season 16 judges?Gordon Ramsay Gordon Ramsay judges "MasterChef: Global Gauntlet"

Photo credit: FOX

Related: Gordon Ramsay’s Net Worth in 2026 Makes Him a Truly Next Level Chef

Joe Bastianich Joe Bastianich judges "MasterChef: Global Gauntlet"

Photo credit: FOX

Tiffany Derry Tiffany Derry judges "MasterChef: Global Gauntlet"

Photo credit: FOX

Is there a trailer for MasterChef  Season 16?

Check back closer to the release date for a first look at MasterChef Season 16.

How many MasterChef contestants are there for Season 16?

The exact number hasn’t been revealed.

Related: Get to Know Gordon Ramsay’s 6 Kids

Who are the MasterChef contestants for Season 16?

This has yet to be announced.

What challenges will the contestants face on MasterChef in Season 16?

Check back closer to the release date for a peek at the challenges on MasterChef Season 16.

What is the prize for the MasterChef winner for Season 16?

This season’s winner will be awarded the grand prize of $250,000, the MasterChef trophy and the title of MasterChef! 

Related: MasterChef: Dynamic Duos Winners Reveal Why ‘Food is Their Love Language’ (Exclusive)

Who won MasterChef Season 15?

Married couple Jessica Bosworth and Jesse Rosenwald took home the $250,000 grand prize on the FOX cooking show.

The long-term couple created a menu that was in homage to their New England home, starting with pan-seared scallops and pork belly with corn purée, pickled jalapeno, apple gastrique and crispy Brussels sprouts for the appetizer; braised short ribs with cacio e pepe gnocchi, baby carrots & fennel, mushrooms, parmesan frico and veal demi-glace for the entrée; and dark chocolate ganache tart with marshmallow meringue, raspberry coulis, maple pecan brittle and crème fraiche ice cream for desert.

“We looked at this menu as we’re going to take as many risks as possible, because the reward was worth it,” Jesse tells Parade in an exclusive interview. “Unfortunately, Tiffany’s short rib did not come out as tender as it should have been or could have been. But we were confident in the rest of the dish. I know Joe’s and Gordon’s came out right. We knew going into it, it was a risk, but we knew that if it came out correctly, it was going to be well worth it.”

Can the cooks on MasterChef use recipes?

That is a no. What they can do is ask questions before cooking begins if there is a food with which they are unfamiliar, but no recipes are allowed in the kitchen.

Where can I watch or stream MasterChef on TV or online?

All 15 seasons are available on Hulu, or on the Fox Now app and several seasons are available for purchase on Prime Video.

Next, A Guide to All of Gordon Ramsay’s Restaurants

Tom Cruise may be known for his dashing good looks, but he'll be almost unrecognizable in Alejandro G. Iñárritu‘s upcoming film, Digger.

Unveiled on Tuesday at CinemaCon, Cruise, who is known for groundbreaking films ranging from Top Gun and Jerry Maguire to Magnolia and Mission: Impossible, presented the first look at his character, Digger Rockwell. The Hollywood Reporter describes the unusual character as "the billionaire executive of a major company causing an environmental disaster via a methane leak that is threatening to displace millions of people." In the footage unveiled, Cruise's character lurks around his mansion as he nurses his sick cat.

John Goodman also stars in the film as the President of the United States, while Sandra Huller, Jesse Plemons, Riz Ahmed, Michael Stuhlbarg, Sophie Wilde, and Emma D’Arcy also appear in the comedy.

Photo by Ethan Miller on Getty Images

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Alejandro G. Iñárritu Couldn't Believe Cruise's Transformation

Iñárritu, who previously directed acclaimed films like Birdman and The Revenant, was shocked by Cruise's transformation into the title character.

“Watching Tom Cruise becoming Digger Rockwell, I was not prepared for that,” he told the audience, noting that he was well aware that Cruise was "fearless" from his stunt work, but was blown away by his “embodying this character, this is another kind of fearless… this role could be his most challenging, high-wire act.”

Cruise Thanked the Movie Theater Owners

A die-hard advocate for movie theaters and keeping them alive, Cruise proudly addresses the CinemaCon audience, which is largely made up of cinema owners and Hollywood studios.

“I want to thank you all for everything you do,” he shared, adding, “we’re up 23 percent so far” at the box office in 2026, THR continued. “My film family, you know I’m here for you, and I love you,” Cruise said.

The screen icon also took to Twitter/X to express his gratitude and excitement for the upcoming project, which is scheduled for release in October.

"We cannot wait to share this film with the world in October and to be part of what is going to be such a special year at the movies!" Cruise said.

We cannot wait to share this film with the world in October and to be part of what is going to be such a special year at the movies!

3/3 pic.twitter.com/lCPW9LhSwu

— Tom Cruise (@TomCruise) April 15, 2026

Related: Steven Spielberg Reveals Tom Cruise's Surprising Set Ritual

There are some excellent science fiction books out there. While some of them add a fantastical element to them, Project Hail Mary author Andy Weir opts for more science than fiction. He’s not afraid to get technical, and it’s not surprising, then, that one of his books has landed on the list of “Best Science Fiction of the 21st Century” on Goodreads.

Ready Player One by Ernest Cline has taken the top spot on the list, and it’s great for those who love more of the fiction side of where tech could grow. If you want more of the science, then you want to turn to the novel that sits in second place, The Martian.

‘The Martian’ Has Been Turned Into a Movie

It won’t be surprising to hear that The Martian by Weir has already been turned into a movie, just in case you missed it. While the novel was released in 2011, it took just four years for it to be adapted into a movie, and it gained excellent reviews.

Matt Damon starred as a man who was trapped on Mars. No, not by some alien invasion, but because he was left behind. Everyone believed that he would die, but he ended up surviving thanks to his knowledge and willingness to work with the environment around him. In the end, he made it clear that maybe — just maybe — humans can thrive on Mars.

Excellent Reviews on Goodreads

It’s not all too surprising that The Martianranks as the No. 2 pick for best science fiction of the 21st century. It holds a 4.42-star rating, with 57% of those reviews being five stars.

Not only is it a thrilling story, but it’s one that is filled with real science. Weir doesn’t want to dumb the story down for the masses, but he does it in a fun and light way. The main drama is within figuring out how to survive, and it’s not always easy to keep us hooked when it’s just one individual telling the story.

After The Martian came Project Hail Mary and Artemis. Weir currently has another novel in the works, and there are some mumblings of a Project Hail Mary sequel, but there’s nothing concrete just yet.

BeforeEric Roberts became one of Hollywood's well-known actors, he was ready to call it quits in his late 20s. The actor reveals that a 1983 film by director Bob Fosse changed his life and career, which led him to a Golden Globes nomination and future hits.

By the late '70s, Roberts' career began with a leading role in the King of Gypsies, which got him his first Golden Globe nomination. Roberts was roughly 22 years old at the time and was on his way to stardom early on, until a car accident had him believe it was over before it began. In 1983, his career went back on track thanks to Fosse's film Star 80, where he played the leading role of Paul Snider, alongsideMariel Hemingway as Dorothy Stratten.

In an episode of the It Happened in Hollywoodpodcast, Roberts reveals he took on the film during a difficult time in his life. He revealed the year before being cast was an "odd, peculiar, hard time," seeing as he was in a car accident that led him to be in a coma for a while. The accident caused "short-term memory loss" and issues with his hand-eye coordination.

“And, so I thought my days as an actor were probably over, if not very much numbered and, was going through the deepest depression I've ever had in my life,” he admitted.

Roberts revealed that the script for Star 80 was given to him by his manager, knowing he was a Fosse fan. At first, Roberts wasn't really interested in the script and only looked at it because of the director. He admitted that his initial read of the script didn't impress him.

“I didn't like it because it seemed too black and white to me,” he confessed. “It seemed too bad guy, good girl, put upon, oppressive. It just seemed too black and white, and it wasn't interesting. Even though it was a true story, it didn't light me up.”

Related: 1961 Classic Track Won an Oscar for ‘Best Original Song’ 64 Years Ago

Getty Images

Despite not liking the storyline, Roberts auditioned for the role anyway and was given a callback by Fosse. The actor was given the role after a few auditions, and Roberts spent months researching the film to understand Fosse's desire for wanting to make the film.

Roberts finally understood the characters and story, despite having thought it was either "very hard to get to or very cliché if you do get to it." Ultimately, Roberts realized that his on-screen character and Snider were "a dime a dozen" in context to how the film ends in a murder suicide. He called the film "valuable" as "these guys are not unusual."

Star 80 ended up leading Roberts to be nominated for a Golden Globe for Leading Actor, and he would go on in 1985 to star in Runaway Train, which earned him another nomination and Oscar nod. Fosse died two years later in 1987.

Nutella's first new spread flavor in 60 years is officially rolling out to stores, and it probably wouldn't have happened if it weren't for fans.

Okay, maybe that's a bit hyperbolic, but the newcomer—which was teased last year—was inspired by a popular combination and one highly recommended by regular Nutella consumers, so they do deserve a little credit.

Finally heading to retailers nationwide this spring is the new Nutella Peanut spread, its first new flavor since its debut.

Nutella Peanut Officially Arrives as the First New Spread Flavor in 60 Years

Nutella Peanut blends the "unmistakable creaminess" of the classic hazelnut-cocoa spread with roasted peanuts for a flavor that's both nostalgic and new, according to an official description in the April 15 press release. So, if you were worried the brand swapped its iconic hazelnuts for peanuts, you can rest assured that's not the case. It's got the best of both.

Related: Nutella and Kinder Bueno Get ‘Delightful’ New Line You Won’t Find in the Snack Aisle

The company says the new spread is "everything fans hoped it would be," making it well worth the nearly year-long wait. But the timing couldn't be more perfect, as the original Nutella spread just got back from an out-of-this-world mission, going viral for orbiting the earth with the Artemis II crew.

Nutella's new Peanut spread arrives in stores this spring.

Nutella/Ferrero

"Honestly, when a jar of Nutella goes viral floating in space, you start to feel like anything is possible. So naturally our next move as a brand was dropping our first new flavor innovation in over 60 years," Noah Szporn, senior vice president of spreads at Ferrero North America, joked, adding in a statement: "Nutella Peanut delivers the same creamy experience fans know and love, now blended with the irresistible taste of roasted peanuts. Our fans have been asking for this for years. We heard them, and afternoon snack time will never be the same."

View this post on Instagram

So far, fans on Instagram seem to agree that it's nothing less than "delicious."

"Literally had it last night😋🙌," another added.

"Can’t wait to try it!😍😍," a third cheered.

"🍫 🥜 perfection!!" someone else gushed, while one more declared, "I’ve got to try omg!!"

Where Will Nutella Peanut Be Sold?

Nutella Peanut is officially available at major retailers nationwide now, including Aldi, Amazon, Giant, Hy-Vee, Kroger, ShopRite, Stew Leonard's, Stop & Shop, Target, Wegmans and Walmart—just in time for peak DIY Nutella ice pop-making weather and sprucing up all your other favorite Nutella dessert recipes. It will be available in its recognizable 13-ounce jars with a gold, peanut-colored label (prices may vary).

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And come the weekend of May 16 and 17, Ferrero said it will be hosting a special Nutella Peanut Pop-Up event in New York City (372 Lafayette Street), which is free to attend and will include Nutella Peanut-themed prizes, personalized keepsakes, and the ultimate reward: free Nutella Peanut sandwiches and snacks!

Next:Nutella Fans, Rejoice: Carvel Churns the Spread Into Ice Cream

When commercial astronaut and payload specialist Kellie Gerardi talks about the future, she isn't just thinking about spaceflight trajectories or scientific milestones. She's thinking about her daughters.

Fresh off the birth of her second daughter, Maxie Quinn, Gerardi is now a mother of two. "Max Q" joins her big sister Delta in a household where curiosity, ambition, and possibility are part of everyday life. And if there's one thing Gerardi is certain about, it's the kind of world—and mindset—she hopes to help shape for her girls.

Growing Her Family—and Helping Others Do the Same

When Gerardi welcomed "Space Baby" Max Q to the world earlier this month, the birth followed a long and complicated journey with IVF. She spent eight years since the birth of her daughter, Delta, trying to conceive again, but dealing with devastating pregnancy losses.

Max Q came earlier than expected, leaving Gerardi "mentally, emotionally, spiritually, and physically exhausted to [her] core," she shared in her Instagram announcement. But she feels "forever grateful" that she and her family didn't "hit the brakes too soon" on their IVF journey.

View this post on Instagram

Max Q actually represents "maximum dynamic pressure," which is the point at which a rocket experiences the greatest aerodynamic stress. It represents the balance between increasing speed and decreasing air density—and, as a baby name for an astronaut's daughter, it also represents resilience under pressure and, ultimately, a critical turning point.

Gerardi understands all too well how challenging and isolating the IVF journey can be—not just on the mind and body, but also on the pockets. And that's exactly why she partnered with BabyQuest to offer families in need financial aid through IVF grants. Thanks to the generosity of Babylist, which matched Gerardi's donations, they have been able to offer two grants of $15,000, which will fully fund a cycle of IVF.

These grants offer that "critical turning point" for those who dream of growing their own families. For Gerardi, it's a way of honoring the long-awaited birth of her second daughter.

Expanding Possibility

Now with two daughters at home here on Earth, Gerardi wants to set the record straight: Girls can do anything.

"I think more than anything, I want my daughters to grow up with an even bigger sense of possibility than mine ever was," Gerardi tells Parade. "I want them to embrace this one precious life I was so lucky to give them, and to probe the boundaries of their full potential."

That idea—possibility without limits—has been a throughline in Gerardi's own life. From conducting microgravity research to being the 90th woman in world history to actually fly to space, she's built a career that defies traditional categories. It's exactly why she wants her daughters to see identity as expansive rather than restrictive.

"I want them to know that they don't have to choose one version of themselves," she explains. "They can build a life that reflects all of who they are."

Related: Barbie to Celebrate International Women's Day with New 'Dream Team' Dolls, Including Astronaut Kellie Gerardi

That's exactly what Gerardi has done over the course of her own career. But her work has always been about more than personal achievement. Her mission has been deeply rooted in access—who gets to participate in science, and who gets to imagine themselves there.

"I [am] deeply motivated by the idea of opening up access to space for the next generation of scientists," she says.

That drive shows up not just in her research, but in her visibility. Whether she's conducting experiments or speaking publicly, she's acutely aware of the power of representation—especially now, as a mother.

Her inclusion in Mattel's Barbie Dream Team collection brought that message full circle.

"I grew up loving Barbie because she represented possibility," she says. "She wasn't just one thing… I've always been more of a 'D) all of the above' kind of girl. To now be included as a Barbie Role Model is surreal. And every little girl who sees her is part of a generation that will grow up knowing that astronauts can look like her. That a woman can be a scientist, an adventurer, a mother—and still be the kind of person who becomes a Barbie."

Related: Barbie Dream Fest Confirms Astronaut Kellie Gerardi as a Special Guest

Reframing Resilience

Of course, building the life of your dreams may not always be so simple. Gerardi, who shattered many glass ceilings throughout her career, knows that all too well. But she also knows that "you don't have to shrink yourself to fit someone else's picture of what you're supposed to be."

"Instead, you can force society's picture to expand to include you," she says, and that's exactly what she has strived to exemplify.

Her journey hasn't been linear. She's spoken candidly about setbacks, including the emotional and physical toll of IVF, and the long stretches where progress felt invisible.

"It's the difference of seeing opportunities vs. seeing dead ends," she says, "and it's the engine behind the resilience of powering through decades where it feels like nothing happens, and earning the moments where it feels like decades happen."

That mindset—grounded, persistent, forward-moving—is something she hopes to pass on.

Her concept of "functional hope" captures it best. "I no longer think of hope as something tied to outcomes or guarantees," she explains. "It's simply a decision to stay in motion and to keep taking the next step."

Sometimes, she says, taking that next step doesn't seem so confident or brave. But it's rooted in knowing that you're "not quite finished yet."

Part of what has allowed Gerardi to navigate such a demanding, unconventional path is her ability to balance humility with confidence—a duality that she believes is essential. That contradiction, she says, "made all the difference in the world"—or, in her case, the universe.

When teaching girls about STEM, she often shares the story of Mary Somerville, whose groundbreaking interdisciplinary work in the 1800s led to the coining of the word "scientist"—because "man of science" was no longer sufficient.

It's more than a history lesson; it's a challenge.

"Aim to be the reason someone has to create an entirely new word to describe your work and impact," she says. "And build the communities that will support the next person who needs a new word too."

For her daughters, Delta and Maxie Quinn, that kind of legacy won't just be something they learn about. It will be something they grow up seeing modeled every day.

And if Gerardi has her way, they won't just inherit a world of expanded possibilities. They'll help define what comes next.

While owning a home may be a dream for many people just starting out, plenty of folks want to move away from the responsibilities of homeownership once they retire. That can mean everything from moving into a senior living community, to renting a home or apartment somewhere after you downsize.

However, a new WalletHub report ranked the country's best and worst cities for renters, placing America's top retirement destination near the top of the most expensive cities list. Will that be enough to change your retirement plans? Keep reading to learn more about what the report says and what that means for you.

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Orlando, Florida one of the Worst Places to Rent

While Disney may be the happiest place on Earth, renters in Orlando likely aren't feeling the joy when they make their monthly rent payment. That's because WalletHub recently named the city among the most expensive places to rent.

Here, people can expect to spend about 28.98 percent of their income on rent, leaving cash-strapped seniors really feeling the pinch. The city ranked 175th out of 182, with some other popular retirement spots making the list, including:

• Glendale, California at 29.62 percent
• Bridgeport, Connecticut at 29.65 percent
• Jackson, Mississippi at 30.09 percent
• New Haven, Connecticut at 31.41 percent
• Newark, New Jersey at 32.09 percent
• Detroit, Michigan at 32.27 percent
• Miami, Florida at 33.77 percent

Related: These Are the 3 Worst-Ranked Florida Cities to Retire In

Of course, it is worth noting that while rent may be high here, taxes are low, and retirees won't have to shell out extra money each year when it comes time to file their taxes thanks to the state's lack of income taxes.

Additionally, renters have far less overhead for maintenance and repairs, which can make renting a more affordable option... even if it seems more expensive at first glance. And when we're talking about Florida, that also means dealing with homeowners' insurance, which can be pretty pricey, since many regions require flood and hurricane coverage.

These Cities are Best for Renters

On the flip side of the coin, WalletHub does note that there are a lot of places where you can snag a deal on rent, including Bismarck, North Dakota, where rent only accounts for around 15.29 percent of a person's income.

But, before you pack your bags (and your snow shoes) and head to North Dakota, it's worth noting that lower rent doesn't necessarily mean a better quality of life. That's because the Honest Local blog says that winters can be isolating here, and those seniors who can't drive or with mobility issues may find themselves stuck inside until the weather clears.

Related: This State Was Just Named the Worst Place To Retire in the U.S.

Additionally, it can be quite isolating here, and many people may find themselves needing to travel far distances to find things like friendships, healthcare, and even groceries.

Of course, the state does have a lot of natural beauty and wonder to offer, so if you're someone who doesn't mind a little solitude, North Dakota could make for an affordable retirement destination with a low cost of living and low monthly rent payments.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.

The Halo Effect has some exciting news.

The Swedish metal supergroup announced via Instagram on Wednesday that they will be going on tour across Europe from February to March 2027, alongside Lacuna Coil and Omnium Gatherum.

"Halos, get ready for something big!" the supergroup wrote in their Instagram caption. "In 2027, we head out on our second headliner tour in Europe with @lacunacoilofficial and @omniumgatherumofficial 🤘💚."

The Halo Effect European Tour 2027 will open on Feb. 19 in Hamburg, Germany, then conclude almost a month later in Tampere, Finland. The metal groups will also be stopping in different cities in various countries such as Denmark, Spain, the Czech Republic, Poland and more. Tickets go on sale this Friday at 10 a.m. CET.

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Established in 2019 by the former members of In Flames — Jesper Strömblad, Mikael Stanne, Niclas Engelin, Peter Iwers and Daniel Svensson — The Halo Effect was created to return to the 1990s "Gothenburg sound" that pioneered the melodic death metal genre. They released their debut single "Shadowminds" in 2021, then their first album, Days of the Lost, a year later.

"What I loved about the first album with The Halo Effect was that it was just new,” said singer Stanne. "We didn’t know what we wanted to do. It was just for fun, to amuse ourselves and each other."

Last year, the group released an EP, We Are The Shadows, and their sophomore album, March of the Unheard.

Niclas Engelin and Jesper Strömblad of the Swedish melodic death metal band The Halo Effect perform on stage at La Riviera on March 24, 2024 in Madrid, Spain.

Mariano Regidor/Getty Images

In addition, the Italian gothic metal band Lacuna Coil will be co-headlining the series of shows alongside The Halo Effect. Since their formation in 1994, the band has changed their name twice, released 10 studio albums, two EPs, two live albums, two compilation albums and one video album. In addition, they have won multiple awards at the MTV Awards, Metal Female Voices Fest, Metal Hammer Award for the Best International Band and more, as well as peaked at No. 15 on the Billboard 200 for their sixth studio album, Dark Adrenaline.

"Hell yeah, this tour’s going to be mean!🤘🏻🔥," the official Lacuna Coil Instagram account commented, minutes after The Halo Effect announced the tour.

Lastly, Finnish band Omnium Gatherum will serve as the tour's opening act. The group, which consists of Markus Vanhala, Aapo Koivisto, Jukka Pelkonen, Mikko Kivistö, Atte Pesonen and Joonas "Jope" Koto, formed in 1996 and is also signed with Nuclear Blast, the same record label as The Halo Effect.

Tickets can be found on The Halo Effect's official website, and will go on sale this Friday at 4 a.m ET.

Related: 2020s Heavy Metal Band Announces 2026 Tour With Special Guests

Homeowners are increasingly moving away from flat, mass-produced art toward multidimensional materials that add depth and history to a space. The goal is to create a curated gallery vibe within the home—a sanctuary that feels both high-end and deeply personal. Achieving this look doesn't require a total room overhaul; rather, it lies in strategically placing statement pieces that offer tactile interest and a diverse color palette to anchor a living area or entryway.

The secret to a sophisticated, modern space often lies in the contrast between industrial elements and artisanal craftsmanship. A well-placed reflective surface is one of the most effective ways to manipulate light and the perceived size of a room, especially when the frame itself serves as a piece of sculptural art.

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By integrating elements like hand-painted metal and patchwork patterns, decorators can soften the hard lines of contemporary furniture while adding a much-needed layer of warmth and visual intrigue.

Kavana Hand-Painted Metal Patchwork Wall Mirror, $179.99 at World Market

World Market

The Kavana Hand-Painted Metal Patchwork Wall Mirror is a masterful execution of this artistic, modern aesthetic. Priced at $179.99, this piece is a World Market exclusive, ensuring your home decor feels unique and carefully sourced. It is meticulously crafted of mirrored glass and metal, featuring a stunning hand-painted finish that incorporates a variety of geometric shapes and rich tones. Because each piece is finished by hand, slight variations may occur, giving every mirror a one-of-a-kind character that celebrates the beauty of artisanal imperfection.

Related: Target Shoppers Say This Must-Have Outdoor Essential Is the 'Ultimate Cloud' for Your Cozy Space

Functionality meets high-end design in this expansive wall piece. Beyond its striking visual appeal, the mirror is designed for ease of use and comes ready to hang, instantly transforming your hallway, bedroom or lounge. The patchwork metal frame serves as a bold border that draws the eye, while the central glass helps bounce light throughout the room, creating a brighter, more open atmosphere. At $179.99, it represents a high-value investment in your home's smart styling and overall ambiance.

Whether you are staging a professional office or refreshing your own personal primary suite, the Kavana Patchwork Mirror provides the structural interest and color story needed to make any wall look professionally styled. Its blend of industrial metal and vibrant hand-applied paint makes it a versatile must-have for the current season.

Related: Sam's Club Shoppers Say This 'Sturdy' Organization Item Is So Great, They're Buying Double

What if you were given the opportunity to have three wishes granted? That’s what happens to Sundae Valentine, and she eagerly takes it. The problem is that the wishes have a price, and she’s not ready to pay it.

New from Disney’s Hyperion publishing house from Here Lies a Vengeful Bitch’s Codie Crowley comes Body Count. Sundae wants to be able to live her life, but that’s going to be short if the monster from the bottom of the motel pool has anything to do with it.

Sure, the monster has given her three wishes, but they come with the price of her life. Once she makes that third wish, she has to pay up, but she’s not ready for that. So, what if she doesn’t make that third wish? If only she can get away with that!

Body Count is perfect for fans of stories that go bump in the night. Whether it’s Supernatural, The Midnight Club, or something else that’s supernaturally wired, you’ll want to pick up the latest novel. It’s written perfectly for teens who are ready to jump into the world of horror, but it’s also a lot of fun for adults with nostalgia for the genre.

Courtesy of Disney Hyperion

Not sure if this is one for you? We have an exclusive excerpt form Body Count that gives you a great look into Crowley’s writing style and the story to come. It all starts with a trip to the motel swimming pool, where one rule stands out for a strange reason.

“DO NOT OPEN YOUR EYES UNDERWATER.”

Why would such a rule be there? Sure, you really shouldn’t open your eyes under the water thanks to the chlorine and other chemicals in there, but Sundae knows at the back of her mind that it’s there for something more poignant. Of course, like any teenager, she’s going to learn her lessons the hard way — and wouldn’t we all be the same?

Take a look at the full excerpt once she does decide not to follow the rules:

“Maybe that rule really was there for no reason. Maybe the worst that would happen if you opened your eyes inside the pool at the Coral Cove Motel was a case of Conjunctivitis.

But as the breath held in her chest began to thin, she heard some- thing else in the muted murmur of splishes and glugs.

Something like . . . a growl.

And she realized: Ever since she’d opened her eyes, she’d just been suspended there, staring out at the length of pool ahead of her.

She never turned around to see what might be behind her.

Sundae kicked her legs and twisted in the water. At this end of the pool, the courtyard lights were just a distant glimmer. Sky blue faded to darkest night. And as she floated there, lungs burning, she saw something in the shadowy deep.

It was his eyes that she noticed first. The way they shone like two silver coins, glinting in the murky dark. Shrouded by shadow, he crouched perfectly still in the corner of the deep end, like a spider in an eave. Between the ripples of water, she could make out his shape. The suit he wore, brown as tree bark. A crown of holly on his head, berries red as rubies.

And his mouth, when he smiled, full of pointed black teeth.

Everything that came after was a blur. Sundae screamed. She swallowed a bunch of pool water. She smashed her knee on the concrete pavers climbing out of the pool. She ran so fast across the court- yard and up the pink steel stairs that her feet hardly touched the ground, and when she made it back to room 257, she leapt into bed and yanked the musty comforter over her head.

She woke up the next morning to a damp chlorine-scented bed, the sheets streaked with bloodstains from her busted knee. Mom didn’t notice as she sleepwalked out the door in her pink Cabana miniskirt, and Sundae swiped fresh sheets off a housekeeping cart so she’d never find out.

For the next few nights, Sundae avoided the courtyard after dark, and whenever she passed the pool gate with its hand-painted sign— DO NOT OPEN YOUR EYES UNDERWATER—his sawtooth smile flashed inside her mind.

And, even during the day, when the sunlight would shine through the water like sea glass, Sundae refused to swim in the pool.

Instead, Sundae sat in the shady motel room, watching TV and filling in the pages of the marine-life coloring book her mom got her on the boardwalk, giving all the fish multicolored scales and glittery fins with her big box of crayons.

But after a few days of this, Sundae had colored every page of her book, and her mom had started to notice something was wrong.

Again and again, she asked Sundae why she wasn’t leaving the room, but no matter how many times her mom questioned her, Sundae didn’t tell her the truth. It wasn’t because she thought her mom wouldn’t believe her; it was because she didn’t want to be the reason they had to run again.

So, when her mom forced her to come to work with her instead of sitting in the room all day again, Sundae saw the man from the pool for a second time.

She didn’t notice him at first. Her mom sat her at the bar, and Sundae perched on the edge of the pink vinyl stool, smacking her flip-flop on its bamboo leg while she stared out at the pool through the window. She only turned around to face the bar when her mom brought her a plate of French toast and an icy strawberry milkshake.

She opened her mouth to say thanks, but her jaw dropped open instead.

There, over her mom’s shoulder, was the man from the pool.”

Photo by Courtney Brooke

Now tell me that doesn’t pique your interest! It certainly did mine upon the first read!

The more I read it, this is perfect for those who grew up loving Are You Afraid of the Dark? I could just see it being one of those stories being told around the campfire, capturing all of the fun we had with the storytelling, scaring us at the end of each night.

Body Count will be published on May 5, 2026, but you can get your hands on preorders right now. The front cover is a lot of fun, making it extremely clear that there will be blood — but of course, in the supernaturally fun way!

Fans are remembering Elizabeth Montgomery 31 years after her death. On April 15, the actress, who was best known for her role as suburban housewife/witch Samantha Stephens on the classic TV sitcomBewitched from 1964 to 1972, was honored with fan remembrances on what would have been her 93rdbirthday. Montgomery died in 1995.

“Today we remember the magical Elizabeth Montgomery on her heavenly birthday,” came a nostalgic post on Facebook.

“Happy Heavenly Birthday,” another fan added. “I loved her on Bewitched. I tried to twitch my nose like her!”

“She earned 5 Emmy nominations, 4 Golden Globe nominations, was a trailblazing activist, and left us Bewitched. Remembering Elizabeth Montgomery on her birthday," another wrote on X.

“Elizabeth Montgomery was an icon of television and magic,” a fourth fan wrote. “Her portrayal of Samantha Stephens on Bewitched continues to captivate audiences with its wit and charm, a true testament to her talent and legacy.”

RELATED: Erin Murphy Poses Like Her ‘Bewitched’ Mom and the Resemblance Is Wild

Montgomery was like a mom to co-star Erin Murphy

Erin Murphy played Tabitha Stephens, the daughter of Montgomery’s bewitching character, from 1966 to 1972 on the classic TV sitcom. She joined the cast of the series two years in, alongside her twin sister, Diane, when they were toddlers.

Murphy once said that Montgomery was like a second mom to her when they worked together on Bewitched. Speaking with Closer Weekly in 2025, she recalled, “Elizabeth Montgomery was very maternal. She’d even scold me like a parent. If I was being silly, she’d call me ‘Erin Margaret,’ just like my mom would.”

Murphy paid tribute to Montgomery’s birthdate in the past. In 2023, she posted a sweet Instagram throwback from one of her first seasons on the show. In the photo, Montgomery is holding Murphy in her arms.

“Today would have been Elizabeth Montgomery’s 90th birthday,” Murphy captioned the post. “Happy Birthday, ‘Mantha Mommy’!

Montgomery died of cancer at age 62 in 1995

In a December 2025 interview on Celebrity Drop, Murphy said her TV mom’s death was difficult to process. "I didn’t know how sick she was,” Murphy said of her late co-star. “I’d heard about it through her son that she wasn’t feeling well. She’d been working on a film and just wasn’t feeling well."

“She was much too young,” Murphy added of Montgomery’s death. “I’m going to be 62 next year, so the thought of that is just crazy.”

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With so many incredible hits released since 2000, it seems nearly impossible to narrow down the best songs from the 21st century.

However, in 2025, Rolling Stone did just that and released a definitive ranking of the best 250 songs from the 21st century. The list featured classics like "Anthems for a Seventeen Year-Old Girl" by Broken Social Scene, OutKast's "Hey Ya!," Amy Winehouse's "Back to Black," "All My Friends" by LCD Soundsystem, "Mr. Brightside" by The Killers, and "Crazy in Love" by Beyoncé feat. Jay Z.

Rolling Stone ranked Missy Elliott's 2001 hit, "Get Ur Freak On," as the number one greatest song of the 21st century. The song was the fifth track off of Missy Elliott's 2001 record, Miss E... So Addictive, which was her third studio album.

While "Get Ur Freak On" became a massive success, Missy Elliott revealed that the song nearly didn't make the album in a 2016 interview on The Strombo Show. According to the rapper, she told the album's producer Timbaland that she felt Miss E... So Addictive needed one more song after it was completed.

"The story that I have behind that is the record was actually finished. I kept telling Tim that I felt like I needed one more song. He was like, 'You're crazy. This album is solid and hot.' And I was like, 'No, I need one more [song].' And we went back and forth for so long," recalled Missy Elliott.

She said that she and Timbaland ended up making "a skeleton of the track" that turned into "Get Ur Freak On."

"He was in the studio. And he just hit the keyboard, and that sound came up. And I was like 'That's it! That's it!' He was like, 'What are you talking about?'" recalled Missy Elliott.

She also said that while she was immediately impressed with the finished recording, she wasn't sure if the song would be a hit.

"This sounded like some next-level type stuff. It felt like that but we still didn't know because at the time nothing sounded like it. So, you know, it's kind of you know but you don't know because it could go over people's heads but thank God that it's registered with the people," said Missy Elliott, now 54.

Are you dreaming of a change of scenery when you retire? Well, you may want to head to one U.S. town that was just named the last place where the American dream is still possible. Not just because it has a lot of things to make your move worthwhile (including a low cost of living), but because they are willing to slip you a few thousand dollars to welcome you to town.

That could be a huge boon for retirees on a fixed income who need a little extra cash once they stop punching the clock. Here's what we know about the offer.

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@cbssundaymorning

"This is a city where the American Dream is still possible”: Bob Ross is one of the leaders behind "Choose Topeka," a program offering people a relocation incentive of up to $15,000 to move to the Kansas capital. He says participants in the program have come from 37 states. Read more at the link in our bio. #topeka #kansas #americandream

♬ original sound - CBS Sunday Morning Topeka, Kansas Named Last Place Where 'American Dream' Still Possible

For so long, many of us have chased the American dream. And while that dream really is different for everyone (I just want a second bathroom and to be able to take my kids on vacation every year), there appears to be one place left in the country where you can make it happen.

According to Bob Ross, the head of the Choose Topeka campaign, Topeka, Kansas is where it's at. He appeared on CBSSunday Morning to talk about all the city has to offer, including affordability. According to the website, the cost of living is 10 percent lower here than it is in the rest of the country, with the average single family home setting you back just $125,000.

Related: These Are the 3 Worst-Ranked Florida Cities to Retire In

That's really good news for retirees who may be looking to relocate as they start the next chapter of their lives. And while many of them opt to head to Florida because of its warmer weather and more favorable tax laws, Topeka looks like it has a lot going for it as well, according to the Islands blog, including:

• A number of luxury retirement communities
• Facilities like McCrite Plaza, which offer both independent and assisted living facilities
• Lower lifetime healthcare costs
• Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the nearby University of Kansas in Lawrence (about 30 minutes outside of Kansas), where curious seniors can continue their education

Retirees Can Earn Money by Moving

While all of this sounds really good to me, one of the bigger draws for retirees has to be the fact that the Choose Topeka campaign is offering to pay people to relocate to the city. As for how much you can make by changing your zip code? Well, it looks like they are willing to offer people up to $15,000 to move to town.

Related: Most Retirees Will Face a $345K Expense They've Likely Never Even Considered

For those who are retired or nearing retirement, that amount of money could make a huge difference, especially for those already on a fixed income who are wondering how they will make ends meet. Plus, when you combine that large up-front offer with the lower cost of living in town, you could be looking at a much more affordable and laid-back retirement experience.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.

Actress Elle Fanning first hit the big screen back in 2001, co-starring at age two as the younger version of big sis Dakota Fanning with icon Sean Penn in I Am Sam. Fast-forward over 20 years, and the younger Fanning has made quite a career for herself. With a filmography that includes the Bob Dylan biopic A Complete Unknown, Disney’s Maleficent, and the Golden Globe Award winner Babel, the actress has come a long way. 

Fanning’s latest role is the title character in Apple TV’s Margo’s Got Money Troubles. Starring alongside Hollywood royalty like Michelle Pfeiffer and Nick Offerman, Fanning plays a single, cash-strapped mother who, in order to solve her ‘money troubles,’ turns to OnlyFans as a source of income.

The actress celebrated the show’s “birth day” with an Instagram post featuring a pregnant selfie. Looking much like any second- or third-trimester mommy-to-be, Fanning is pictured with disheveled hair, no makeup, and an open robe. Of course, Fanning wasn’t actually pregnant during the filming of the series. Instead, she wore a prosthetic (and very lifelike) bump. And as it turns out, the belly looked real enough to temporarily trick some fans and friends into thinking the actress was making a different sort of announcement. 

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Saltburn actor Archie Madekwe commented on the post, writing, “Woah the way I thought I’d missed you being pregnant,” and one fan added, “I was about to say when did this happen.” Another commenter wrote, “I was so confused for a second. I was like…she hid that well.” 

Obviously, there was nothing to hide. While the pic threw some people off, the caption clearly gave it away. Along with a carousel of behind-the-scenes photos from the making of the series, Fanning wrote, “I hope you fall in love with Margo as much as I did while playing her. Filming this season with our magical cast and crew was a joyous experience wrapped up in laughter, whimsy, and baby poo.” Well said!

If you’re wondering whether starring as pregnant/new mom Margo has made Fanning want to start a family, the actress told Elle UK in a new interview, “I’ve always just wanted that, the baby-fever (on the set of Margo) was nuts.” But that doesn’t mean she has any plans to give up her career. The actress opened up about her future, adding, “I’d love to still be creative, to work with amazing directors and to be surprised by my own projects.”

The older you get, the more important it is to look after your heart. Scientific research shows that aging is a primary, independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease. While you can’t stop the clock, there is a lot you can do to lower your risk through how you live. One particularly powerful way is to maintain healthy cholesterol levels.

“Cholesterol levels reflect how your body is handling fats and inflammation over time, which directly impacts your risk of heart disease. When it’s off balance, it can damage blood vessels and impact overall health for years before symptoms show up,” says Dr. Abid Husain, MD, FACC, an integrative cardiologist and functional medicine doctor at the Boulder Longevity Institute. 

Related: Cardiologists Are Begging People To Stop Ignoring This Important Cholesterol Number

As Dr. Husain explains, high cholesterol can damage blood vessels over time before you even realize it. This is why it’s important to know your cholesterol numbers. The American Heart Association recommends that adults get their cholesterol checked every five years. If your LDL cholesterol is too high, your doctor may recommend cholesterol-lowering medication. 

Something everyone can benefit from is supporting their cholesterol through diet. You may already know the basics of eating for healthy cholesterol, such as avoiding fatty meats, fried foods and soda, and eating lots of fruits and vegetables. But where do carbohydrates factor in? 

It’s important to know that not all carbohydrate-based foods impact cholesterol the same way. Some foods high in carbs negatively impact it. But there’s one carbohydrate-rich food that cardiologists we talked to say supports both healthy cholesterol and heart health overall.

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How Carbohydrates Impact Cholesterol

When talking about carbohydrates and cholesterol, it’s important to know the difference between simple carbohydrates and complex carbohydrates. Simple carbohydrates are foods that are broken down quickly for energy, while complex carbohydrates are digested more slowly and help provide sustained energy. You may have also heard of refined carbohydrates, which are processed foods that have been stripped of fiber and nutrients.

“Not all carbohydrates affect the body the same way,” explains Dr. John Conte, MD, a cardiac surgeon and the medical director of cardiothoracic at XVIVO, a medical technology company specializing in organ transplants. Dr. Conte explains that refined carbs such as sugary drinks, white bread and highly processed snacks are quickly absorbed and can shift the body’s metabolism. “This ultimately raises bad cholesterol while lowering good cholesterol,” he says.

Related: Yes, Carbs Can Be Healthy! Here Are 16 of the Best Ones To Add to Your Plate, According to Nutritionists

Dr. Conte adds that excess sugar and refined carbs can also be converted into fat in the body. In excess, this can lead to weight gain, which is another risk factor for cardiovascular disease. “That’s why limiting highly processed carbohydrates is an important part of managing cholesterol and overall heart health,” he tells Parade.

Dr. Husain explains that a diet that’s high in simple carbs can increase the risk of diabetes and plaque buildup in the arteries. But both cardiologists say that this is not the case with complex carbohydrates. “Complex carbohydrates tend to have the opposite effect, largely because of their fiber content,” Dr. Conte shares. 

Dr. Conte explains that foods like whole grains, beans and vegetables contain soluble fiber, which binds to cholesterol in the digestive tract and helps remove it from the body before it’s absorbed. “This process helps lower LDL levels and supports a healthier overall lipid profile. These foods are also digested more slowly, which helps regulate blood sugar and reduce some downstream metabolic effects that can negatively impact cholesterol,” he says.

Dr. Husain also says that complex carbs support cholesterol levels, sharing, “The natural sugars don’t get absorbed as quickly and don’t cause as high a spike in blood sugar. The fibers help your body process fats more efficiently. This reduces the inflammation in your system."

Related: The Best Carb for Aging and Gut Health, According to Dietitians

The Carbohydrate To Eat More of To Support Your Cholesterol

Alexandra Lazar/Getty Images

Both cardiologists say that virtually all complex carbohydrates support cholesterol because they are packed with beneficial nutrients, such as fiber. Whole grains, beans, chickpeas, lentils, sweet potatoes and berries are all examples of complex carbohydrates that support heart health. But there’s one carbohydrate that can be particularly beneficial that both Dr. Conte and De. Husain say many people don’t eat regularly: oats.

“Oats are one of the best heart-healthy carbohydrates. They’re rich in soluble fiber, which helps reduce LDL cholesterol by limiting how much of it is absorbed into the bloodstream. When eaten regularly, without added sugar, oats can be an effective way to support healthier cholesterol levels,” Dr. Conte says.

Scientific research backs this up, showing that eating oats regularly is associated with lowering LDL cholesterol. Researchers say that the oats’ rich polyphenol (antioxidant-rich micronutrients) content also contributes to lowering cholesterol. This is in addition to oats’ high fiber content. “The digestible fibers in oats have something called beta-glucans. These fibers have been repeatedly shown to have the ability to lower cholesterol in many trials. These fibers also help regulate blood sugar,” Dr. Husain explains. 

How To Take This Cholesterol-Lowering Carb One Step Further

Want to support your cholesterol even more? Dr. Husain recommends topping your oats with berries and walnuts. “The berries provide vitamins, nutrients and a little sweetness, while the walnuts have healthy omega-3 fats and a small amount of protein,” he says. Both berries and walnuts have also been scientifically shown to lower LDL cholesterol too.

While eating oats regularly can help lower LDL cholesterol, Dr. Husain notes that it is possible to overdo it. “Amount and quality of carbs matter. You can have too much of a good thing, so eat good carbs and keep it in balance with other nutrients,” he says. 

Remember, there are lots of heart-healthy, cholesterol-lowering carbs you can integrate into your diet. But starting your day with a bowl of oats is certainly a great way to set a heart-healthy tone for the rest of the day. 

Up Next:

Related: I Asked 3 Nutrition Experts What Habit Matters Most for Metabolism—They All Said the Same Thing

Sources  

• Rodgers, J. L., Jones, J., Bolleddu, S. I., et al. (2019). Cardiovascular Risks Associated with Gender and Aging. Journal of Cardiovascular Development and Disease. 6(2):19
• Dr. Abid Husain, MD, FACC, integrative cardiologist and functional medicine doctor at the Boulder Longevity Institute
• What Your Cholesterol Levels Mean. American Heart Association
• Carbohydrates. American Heart Association
• Dr. John Conte, MD, cardiac surgeon and the medical director of cardiothoracic at XVIVO, a medical technology company specializing in organ transplants
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Comedy legend Dave Chappelle always said he wouldn't bring back his iconic series, Chappelle's Show. However, things may have changed.

Chappelle, 52, gained prominence as a stand-up comedian before tackling film roles in movies like Con Air and Half Baked. While his career has continued to evolve, with unexpected film roles like A Star is Born and tremendous appearances on Saturday Night Live, it was his Comedy Central sketch comedy series, Chappelle's Show, that put him on the map as a revolutionary in the business. Now, the titan says he is potentially considering bringing the series back.

In a revealing new interview, Chappelle told the Associated Press that the comedy landscape has changed so significantly in recent years that he thinks it may be a good time to revisit the idea.

“If you’d asked me that question a year ago, I’d have told you absolutely not. But in the last few weeks … I’m considering it," he shared.

Chappelle's Show ran for two full seasons, with a third abbreviated season.

If you need a laugh, check out this compilation of fun Chappelle's Show moments:

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Why Did Dave Chappelle Leave Chappelle's Show?

Chappelle famously walked off Chappelle's Show during the third season. Battling significant stress and creative differences, he decided it was time to leave. In a stand-up video posted to Instagram in 2020, he opened up about why he departed.

"When I quit the show, all my friends would say, 'Well then f--k them, Dave, why don't you just do Chappelle's Show at another network?' Yeah, yeah, yeah. And why doesn't the slave run from one plantation to another plantation because the master over there might be nicer! My God, man, I was trapped," Chappelle shared, admitting that at the time, he had "thought about coming back and doing another Chappelle's Show." However, he eventually realized that he "can't call it Chappelle's Show because my name and likeness is being used by them in perpetuity throughout the universe. It's in the contract," PEOPLE shared.

Related: Controversial Rock Singer Sends Bold Message to Dave Chappelle: ‘The World Is Violent Enough’

The tempters have a tough job: flirting and listening to the women struggling in their relationships on Temptation Island. Hopefully, this gives them clarity about whether their boyfriend at the other villa is right for them.

There is one man who was no longer interested in the role. This is why he left early and said he was on the Netflix show for the wrong reasons.

Kai Stone of ‘Temptation Island’ Fell for Another Applicant The cast of 'Temptation Island' Season 2

Courtesy of Netflix

Kai Stone made a strong first impression in season 2. "Your girlfriend's hopping on the plane with me, duh! Back on my island, duh. On the surfboard, duh. In the crib, duh. In the Toyota Tacoma, duh. Watching sunsets, duh. Getting piped under the stars, duh," the Hawaiian surfer told the camera. None of that happened.

Related: Kai of ‘Temptation Island’ Fell for Another Applicant

"I'm the duh guy from Temptation Island," he introduced himself in a TikTok. "Looking back on it I'm like, "God damn I was f---ing douchebag level 10,000," Kai said. "I can't believe I said all that sh-t." He revealed he made a strong connection before filming.

"But I met this girl like six weeks before I went on the show and she was actually interviewing for Temptation Island as well," he explained. "I'm like, what are the odds of that, right? And we're both interviewing as singles."

He said he knew he was "cooked" when they met. "You just think about them all the time, and when you're trying to talk to someone else in a romantic sense or even in a friendly sense, like if it's a girl or a guy, you're not really there mentally," Kai said.

He claimed he tried to leave the first day, but producers convinced him to stay. He told them he was there "for the wrong reasons," and he left the show days later. Everything worked out because he's now in a relationship.

Related: A ‘Temptation Island’ Star Was on Another Netflix Reality Show