Parade

Subscribe to Parade feed Parade
Your daily destination for celebrity news, videos, entertainment, food, recipes, health tips, fitness, and games from America's most popular magazine.
Updated: 25 min 31 sec ago

New York Times Bestselling Novel, Chosen for Oprah's Book Club, Just Reached a Major Milestone

Tue, 07/28/2026 - 8:08pm

For book lovers, the pairing of Oprah Winfrey and Wally Lamb is one of the most enduring relationships in the history of celebrity book clubs. Winfrey has chosen three of Lamb's novels for Oprah's Book Club, leading to skyrocketing sales, bestseller status, and increased recognition for the acclaimed author. Lamb's most recent novel, The River Is Waiting, was selected as Oprah's 115th Book Club pick. Thanks in part to Winfrey's endorsement, the book has now reached another major publishing milestone.

Published on May 19, 2026, The River Is Waiting became an instant New York Times bestseller and a USA Today bestseller. It also marked the third Wally Lamb novel selected for Oprah's Book Club. Now, following a successful hardcover release, The River Is Waiting is officially available in paperback.

Readers Celebrate the Paperback Release View this post on Instagram

Readers celebrated the news in the comments of Oprah's social media post, sharing how much the novel has stayed with them.

"It's been an entire year, and I still think about this book. The audiobook was amazing!!" gushed one reader.

Another added, "OMG this book is so damn good! I might need to reread it!!"

"This is one of the best books I've ever read!" shared another, echoing the sentiments of many fans.

Why a Paperback Release Is a Major Milestone View this post on Instagram

For many books, publication day is just the beginning of a long journey. Many publishers release high-profile books in hardcover first. Hardcover editions generate excitement around a new release and are typically purchased by devoted readers, collectors, and libraries willing to pay a premium for the newest titles.

After a successful hardcover launch, many books receive a second life through a paperback edition. Thanks to its lower price, a paperback often introduces a book to a much wider audience while offering greater affordability and portability. For readers, it provides the opportunity to discover a bestselling novel at a lower cost. For authors and publishers, a paperback release can significantly extend a book's lifespan and introduce it to an entirely new wave of readers.

Related: 'Felt This Book in My Bones': Oprah Winfrey Reveals Her 123rd Book Club Pick

Why Readers Love Paperback Editions View this post on Instagram

A paperback release can also reconnect readers with a book they've already enjoyed. As Oprah's followers were quick to note, the paperback release of The River Is Waiting gives readers an opportunity to revisit a favorite novel or share it with a fellow book lover.

Book clubs also tend to favor paperback editions, not only because of their lower price but also because they're lighter, easier to carry, and more convenient for members to bring to discussions.

If your book club is looking for a compelling fall pick, Oprah has a recommendation ready.

Related: Goodreads Readers Rank This The Best Reese’s Book Club Pick Of All Time

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

Emilie Kiser Breaks Silence After Son Teddy Is Pictured Without a Life Jacket

Tue, 07/28/2026 - 8:08pm

Emilie Kiser is addressing criticism after her son Teddy was pictured without a life jacket while on a boat.

The 16-month-old appeared alongside his father, Brady Kiser, in a video shared by fellow influencer Madi Curtis while the families were vacationing together in Mallorca, Spain in June. At the time, Curtis posted a compilation of clips from a day spent on the water, though the video has since been deleted.

After the footage circulated online, some social media users criticized the couple for allowing Teddy to be on the boat without a life jacket. After roughly two weeks of backlash, the content creator finally broke her silence on the incident.

“Our child should have been in his life jacket for the entirety of that boat ride, not even for the few moments that he was out of it. We are painfully aware that in a matter of seconds, your entire life can change and we should have done better,” Emilie wrote on her Instagram Story on Tuesday, July 28. “We recognize and appreciate the genuine care that people have for our children. There has also been a deep level of anger and hurt directed toward our family and we understand the basis of those feelings as well.”

The criticism comes after the death of Emilie's older son, Trigg, who drowned in the family's backyard pool in Arizona last year. Emilie was not home at the time, and was being cared for by Brady. The Maricopa County Attorney's Office later declined to file charges against Brady.

“It comes from the belief that Trigg should still be here and we share that same belief more than can be expressed," Emilie continued in her statement. "He was only three years old and should have lived a lifetime more. That reality lives with us every moment of every single day.”

Emilie went on to say that she and her family will “continue to do better, advocate for better and, as hard as we try to avoid them, still make mistakes.”

“We can only promise that we will never stop learning from them and continue loving our children with everything we have,” the influencer concluded.

Earlier this month, Emilie announced that she and Brady are expecting their third child.

“We are so grateful and excited to share that we will be welcoming another baby into our family 🤍🪿. This news feels very surreal and has already been such a bright light to us during some of our darkest days,” Emilie wrote via Instagram on July 3.

Andrew Scott Plays Tragic Actor Famed for Role in 1981 Oscar-Winning Movie in New ‘Powerful’ Biopic

Tue, 07/28/2026 - 8:06pm

Sherlock star Andrew Scott is bringing the late Scottish actor Ian Charleson to life in the heartbreaking new biopic Elsinore.

Described as "a powerful, deeply moving and inspiring true story," Elsinore follows Charleson, who "faced incredible odds while preparing to give the performance of his life in Hamlet at the National Theatre in London".

Charleson was best known for his starring role in Chariots of Fireand an appearance in Gandhi. He was also one of London's leading theatre actors, working with the likes of Ian McKellen, John Gieglund and Bob Hoskins.

In 1986, the actor, who was gay, was diagnosed with HIV. In 1990 he passed away from AIDS. His agent Michael Whitehall announced that he died from septicemia “following a courageous struggle with the AIDS virus."

His performance of Hamlet was his last, with his run in the play ending just eight weeks before his death. During the run, Charleson's face was significantly swollen from septicemia, while audience members and the public were informed he was recovering from a sinus operation.

“I was fortunate enough to see Ian’s last performance, as Hamlet at the National Theater nine weeks ago,” Whitehall said in 1990 upon the actor's death. “After nearly four hours on stage he was given a standing ovation by a huge and appreciative audience.

“It was clear that he was exhausted, but his courage, not only in being on that stage but giving us the performance of his life, left our applause and cheers seeming very inadequate," the statement added.

View this post on Instagram

Charleson famously asked that his diagnosis not be announced until after his death in the hope of raising awareness for AIDS. He is considered the first actor in the UK to die from the AIDS epidemic.

Elsinore will depict this era of the actor's life as he faced health challenges while also taking on Shakespeare's iconic play. It has already been touted for awards success, with Scott being predicted a Best Actor nomination.

The film co-stars Oscar-winner Olivia Colman,Doctor Whostar Billie Piper, Bridgerton's Luke Thompson and Heartstopper's Joe Locke.

Related: Tom Holland Is Filled With ‘Absolute Dread’ Over Playing This Hollywood Legend in New Biopic

Irish actor Andrew Scott is coming off acclaimed performances in All of Us Strangers alongside Paul Mescal, Richard Linklater's Blue Moon, Knives Out sequel Wake Up Dead Man, and recent WWII drama Pressure. Expect Elsinore to make audiences cry at the upcoming film festivals.

Elsinore is directed by Simon Stone, who helmed The Woman in Cabin 10, and written by Stephen Beresford, who penned Pride. "Stephen Beresford’s screenplay is both heartbreaking and hilarious, a beautiful ode to the power of community in times of crisis. Andrew Scott is one of the greatest actors of his generation as Ian Charleson was: it’s momentous casting," Stone said.

Elsinore will hit US theatres on November 20.

1967 Rock Hit With Iconic Organ Riff Was Written and Sung by an 18-Year-Old

Tue, 07/28/2026 - 8:00pm

If ever there were a rock and roll prodigy, it would have to be Steve Winwood. His first single with the Spencer Davis Group, "Dimples," was released just ten days after the singer's 16th birthday. While "Dimples" (actually a John Lee Hooker cover) wasn't a massive hit, there would be plenty of those in Winwood's future...and he wrote and sang one of them when he was only 18 years old.

Released as a single in 1967 (and included on the album of the same name), "I'm a Man" was a major triumph for the Spencer Davis Group, peaking at #10 on the Billboard Hot 100. But the organ-driven, soul-infused rocker was more than just commercially successful. As Winwood explained in a 2003 interview with the Dutch music series Top 2000 agogo, "I'm a Man" also helped to pave the way for the music he would make with Traffic.

"We were kind of experimenting with what is now called world music — it didn't exist then — but Afro-Caribbean music which we'd been listening to," he explained.

"'I'm A Man' was actually significant because it was the last Spencer Davis Group song before Traffic," Winwood continued. "So it was a significant transition because we were using these Afro-Caribbean elements in that music and then we went on in Traffic to combine that with many more elements like folk music and jazz and rock to try and combine all these elements."

The lyrics, meanwhile, certainly seem to reflect the life of an 18-year-old musician in the '60s:

Well, my pad is very messy
And there's whiskers on my chin
And I'm all hung up on music
And I always play to win
I ain't got no time for lovin'
'Cause my time is all used up
Just to sit around creatin'
All that groovy kind of stuff

In a 2018 interview with Uncut, Winwood reflected on the diversity of his early musical influences.

“I started off playing ’30s and ’40s dance music with my dad and my brother,” he said. “Then I started to discover skiffle, bebop and R&B. It was an odd mix — I was subconsciously trying to see how skiffle would work with Horace Silver, trying to put it all together.

Related: 1965 Classic Rock Hit, Written by an 18-Year-Old, Was Rejected by Record Label Before Topping the Charts

“My brother [Muff Winwood, producer and musician] and I didn’t have a record player, but what we did have was an uncle who would make all this hi-fi kit, so we’d have his cast-offs," Winwood recalled. "We had a quarter-inch reel-to-reel tape machine in 1962, so we used to record off the radio — things like Willis Conover’s Voice Of America Jazz Hour, broadcasting in Germany to the American forces.”

Even decades later, Winwood said he still felt a "connection" to the music he made as a teenager with the Spencer Davis Group.

“I do feel a connection to those songs,” he said. "We’re not just going through the motions. ‘I’m A Man’ has also got the jazz organ trio thing going on, somewhere in there, with the Caribbean sound. It’s nice to add all those different flavors.”

Clearly, the rest of the world still feels a connection to Winwood's first major hits, too. At the time of this writing, "I'm a Man" has been streamed 37,360,534 times on Spotify alone.

Related: 1966 Classic Rock Anthem, Written in 10 Minutes, Was Sung by an 18-Year-Old

2000s Metal Band, Disbanded for 6 Years, Announces First Album in 16 Years

Tue, 07/28/2026 - 7:56pm

English death metal and deathcore band Annotations of an Autopsy are recording their first new full-length album in 16 years, marking a major return for the 2000s-era group after years away from the scene.

The band has entered Newman Studios in East Anglia, England, to work on its third studio album. Drum tracking for the record has already been completed, while guitar recording is set to begin soon. 

According to the band’s Instagram post, the upcoming album will be mixed by Taylor Young, known for his work with bands including Terror and Drain, as well as Tribal Gaze, Xibalba, God's Hate, Twitching Tongues and Nails.

Steve Regan of Annotations of an Autopsy performs on stage at the Corporation on Nov. 5, 2010 in Sheffield, England.

Photo by Gary Wolstenholme/Redferns

A release is currently being planned for late 2026, although the band has not yet announced a specific date or shared further details about the album's title, tracklist or first single.

The new record will be Annotations of an Autopsy's first full-length release since 2010's II: The Reign of Darkness. The band later released the World of Sludge EP in 2019, but the new project will be their first studio album in more than a decade.

The band shared a video from the recording session, confirming that work on the new album had begun at Newman Studios.

View this post on Instagram

The new album follows the band's return to live performances after a long break. Annotations of an Autopsy officially announced their disbandment in 2013 after forming in Lowestoft, Suffolk, in 2006. The group later returned and released World of Sludge in 2019.

The band's comeback became more active in 2025, when they were announced as part of the European run of Slaughter to Prevail's Grizzly Winter tour. The shows gave the band a chance to perform for fans again after years away from regular live activity.

In a February 2026 interview with Chaoszine, drummer Neil Hayward discussed the band's return and the response they received when they went back on stage. According to Hayward, the group had not originally planned to perform again but accepted an offer from Slaughter to Prevail's Jack.

“Initially we had no thoughts or plans to do more shows again but we were asked directly by Jack from Slaughter to prevail if we wanted to support them on those UK shows and it was an offer we simply couldn’t turn down,” Hayward said.

Hayward also said the experience showed the band that their music still connected with listeners years after its release.

“It felt like we had never really left to be honest. As a band it was refreshing to know that when we’re playing on stage and getting a very positive response that there’s still life in this old dog yet, it’s still amazing to us to see people shouting our lyrics back at us and going hard in the pit 20 years after we released our first EP.”

New Annotations of an Autopsy Album Follows 2000s Deathcore Legacy

Annotations of an Autopsy formed in 2006 and quickly became part of the early U.K. deathcore movement. The band released its debut EP, Welcome to Sludge City, in 2007 before putting out its first full-length album, Before the Throne of Infection, in 2008.

The album helped the group gain attention outside England and led to touring across Europe. The band also performed at Download Festival and appeared on the 2008 Summer Slaughter Tour with Suicide Silence, As Blood Runs Black, Abigail Williams, Born of Osiris and The Berzerker.

Their second studio album, II: The Reign of Darkness, arrived in January 2010. The record became their last full-length album before the group's later hiatus and eventual return.

The band continued to release new material through the Dark Days EP in 2011 and the World of Sludge EP in 2019. The band also has two shows scheduled at The Black Heart in London on September 26 and 27.

With recording now underway, Annotations of an Autopsy are moving toward the next chapter of their comeback.

Related: 2000s Metal Band Announces New Album Nearly 30 Years After Forming

Tractor Supply's Sleek New Steel Pergola Is the Ultimate Backyard Upgrade

Tue, 07/28/2026 - 7:55pm

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 backyard can feel unfinished when there is no clear place to relax, gather, or enjoy the outdoors. Even a well-kept patio may still feel like it is missing something if the space does not offer shade, structure, and comfort. That is why more homeowners are investing in outdoor living upgrades that make the yard feel more complete.

The right addition can change everything. Instead of treating the backyard as an afterthought, people are turning it into a true extension of the home. That means creating spaces that support family time, weekend lounging, and entertaining guests in a way that feels easy and inviting.

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

Sunjoy 10 x 12 ft. Calora Pergola, $325.99 at Tractor Supply

Tractor Supply

Shop It!

The Sunjoy 10 ft. x 12 ft. Calora Pergola from Tractor Supply is the kind of outdoor feature that helps do exactly that. With its generous size and clean design, it offers a polished look that can instantly elevate a patio or backyard seating area. It brings together style and function in a way that fits today’s demand for practical outdoor decor.

A pergola like this can create a defined gathering area for outdoor dining, a sitting space, or a quiet place to unwind with a drink after a long day. It also adds visual structure to the yard, making the space feel more intentional and well-designed. For homeowners searching for backyard shade ideas or patio upgrade inspiration, this is a strong option to consider.

Related: Marshalls Antique-Inspired Lamp Set Gives a Luxe Look for a Budget-Friendly Cost

One of the biggest benefits of a pergola is its flexibility. You can decorate it with string lights, outdoor curtains, climbing plants, or cozy furniture to match your style. That makes it more than just a shade structure. It becomes a centerpiece for outdoor living.

If you have been thinking about simple ways to improve your backyard, a pergola is a smart move. It delivers instant curb appeal, expands how you use your outdoor space, and creates a more enjoyable place to gather. For homeowners who want a stylish outdoor upgrade without a full renovation, this kind of addition can make a lasting impression.

Related: T.J. Maxx's Beautiful 4-Piece Set of Vintage-Inspired Porcelain Bowls Is a Charming Addition to Any Kitchen

Starbucks Launches First-of-Its-Kind Drink Lineup for Summer

Tue, 07/28/2026 - 7:54pm

Blame Aperol and Celsius.

Spritzes are the new summer refreshment and Starbucks has taken notice. Unveiling the mega popular chain's latest summer lineup, the biggest reveal were 4 different spritzes, each tailored to cold-brew cravers, matcha maniacs, and those simply looking for a delicious way to cool down.

If you've been following Starbucks' prior teases this year, then you already know about the following new Refreshers:

  • Super Mango Energy Refresher
  • Sparkling Mango Dragonfruit Lemonade Energy Refresher
  • Sparkling Mango Strawberry Lemonade Energy Refresher
  • Sparkling Strawberry Açaí Lemonade Energy Refresher

Related: Fireball Launches 5 New Flavors With Less Heat Than Its Signature Cinnamon

July 28 was the official kickoff for the new products' test run, meaning you can only find the above Refreshers and the first-of-its-kind Spritz Collection at "approximately 100" different stores scattered across the U.S.

Starbucks is no longer just a coffeehouse; they're becoming a one-stop shop for handcrafted beverages. To prove it, here are Starbucks' four new spritz drinks that may be available at a café near you:

  • Sparkling Cold Brew Sour Spritz
  • Strawberry Sunset Spritz
  • Golden Peach Spritz
  • Strawberry Matcha Spritz

Obviously, the cold brew and matcha options fit right in to Starbucks' core offerings.

The other pair are wild cards for tea lovers, both described as "sparkling fusions" made with real fruit puree, served on ice and mixed with lemonade.

Related: A&W Just Launched a New Drink That Root Beer Fans Won’t Want to Miss

Starbucks chose 3 major cities for the rollout, all of which experience notoriously humid summers:

  • Austin
  • San Antonio
  • St. Louis

Refreshers are a $2 billion market for Starbucks after initially launching in 2012, making the brand new Spritz Collection a logical next step, whether it turns out to be a seasonal hit or not.

Ezra Sosa Defends Sister Stephani After 'DWTS: The Next Pro' Accident Sends Contestant Home

Tue, 07/28/2026 - 7:45pm

Ezra Sosa is sticking up for his little sister.

On the Monday, July 27, episode of Dancing With the Stars: The Next Pro, contestant Stephani Sosa accidentally hit fellow competitor Natalie Jolley in the face during a dance rehearsal.

Jolley was taken away in an ambulance and was absent from rehearsals and performances for the remainder of the episode.

Following the performances, judge Shirley Ballas announced that neither of the bottom two dancers would be eliminated. Because Jolley had not been medically cleared to continue competing, she was instead sent home from the competition.

After the shocking outcome aired, fans flooded the comments section of a TikTok showing the incident, with some arguing that Stephani should have been eliminated instead.

RELATED: Witney Carson and Ezra Sosa Reveal the ‘Villains’ of ‘DWTS’

"Stephani is soooo opposite of her brother Ezra. she gives fake/bad vibes," wrote one commenter.

"I don’t know. The way she said sorry I just care seems so performative she didn’t seem to care as much," said another.

"Stephani should’ve been the one who left not Natalie," added a third.

Ezra quickly came to his sister's defense in the comments.

“This comment section…,” the Dancing With the Stars pro wrote. “My sister apologized to Natalie they didn’t air it. Also this happens all the time when you are rehearsing.”

After addressing the criticism, Ezra shared a video of himself and Stephani reacting to the moment from the episode, captioning it, “Reacting to my sister b---h slapping another contestant on DWTS: The Next Pro."

As footage of Stephani accidentally hitting Jolley in the eye plays, the siblings both cover their faces and laugh. Ezra then turns to Stephani and says, “Steph, why did you do that?”

“Steph, that’s bad,” he said. “You didn’t tell me you b---h slapped her. That’s bad. Poor girl.”

Stephani replied, “I feel so bad.”

In a confessional during the episode, Stephani reflected on the incident.

“I don’t know what happened. The dance was moving so quickly, and Natalie got hit in the face. I just hate being the one that caused that," she said.

“Like, I just feel horrible,” Stephani added, tearing up. “I know she’s worked really hard to be here, and I hope she’s okay.”

Jolley was the fourth contestant eliminated from DWTS: The Next Pro, following Benjamin Castro, Jake Monreal, and Briar Nolet.

🪩 SIGN UP for our Dancing with the Stars newsletter to get access to exclusive news, interviews, songs, recaps & more 🪩

Anthropologie’s $20 Coastal Stud Earrings Come in 16 Dainty Styles That Add So Much Summery ‘Whimsy’

Tue, 07/28/2026 - 7:45pm

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

Classic stud earrings are one of those jewelry staples you'll end up reaching for again and again. While statement hoops and bold drop earrings are always fun in the summer, dainty studs are often the most practical choice for everyday wear. They also don't have to be boring — playful motifs and subtle colors are a fun way to add personality to your outfits while still keeping your look polished and easy to wear. 

The Summer Icon Post Earrings from Anthropologie are a perfect example. Right now, they're on sale for 29% off, bringing the price down from $28 to just $20. With a wide variety of summer-inspired designs, they have that boutique feel without the high price tag.

Summer Icon Post Earrings, $20 (was $28) at Anthropologie

Courtesy of Anthropologie

Shop at Anthropologie

There are 16 different styles to choose from, so it's hard to pick just one. You'll find coastal-inspired icons like fish, shells, oysters, shrimp, starfish, and lobsters, along with cheerful fruit designs like lemons and cherries. There are also sparkly cubic zirconia options if you prefer a little extra shine.

Each pair is crafted from 14-karat gold-plated brass, with select styles featuring cubic zirconia accents. The earrings measure just 0.4 inches long by 0.2 inches wide and feature classic post-back closures, making them lightweight and comfortable enough for all-day wear.

Their petite size makes them incredibly easy to style. Wear them on their own for a minimalist look or mix them into an ear stack in your second or third piercing for a curated vibe. They pair effortlessly with everything from a T-shirt and jeans to breezy linen sets and maxi dresses, and many of the designs work just as well beyond summer.

These also make a thoughtful gift. Each pair arrives displayed on a decorative frosted shell, making the presentation feel extra special. With so many icons to choose from, it's easy to pick a design that feels personalized, no matter what the recipient is into.

Shoppers seemed to love these earrings too. One shopper shared, “These stud sets are so adorable for the upcoming warmer months to add to your collection! I love the simple gold tone that goes with everything, while still adding some fun to your ear with fun icons.”

Another reviewer wrote, “These summer shapes are fun, add a bit of whimsy, but aren’t so crazy they can’t be worn year-round. I love the fish shape and the emerald shape studs. The cases they arrive in are also perfect for gifting too!”

Shop More Deals

Related: Walmart’s ‘Petite’ Shimmery Huggie Hoop Earrings Give Outfits an ‘Expensive’ Finish for Just $10

For a playful yet wearable addition to your summer jewelry collection, the Summer Icon Post Earrings are an easy pick. And with Anthropologie's current discount, you can grab your favorite designs for just $20 each without stretching your budget. 

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.

‘Star Trek: Strange New Worlds’ Star Reveals the Story Behind His 'Spontaneous' Elopement

Tue, 07/28/2026 - 7:43pm

Star Trek: Strange New Worlds star Paul Wesley, 44, is opening up about his and his now-wife model, Natalie Kuckenburg's recent wedding.

In a July 2026 interview with Entertainment Tonight at the 2026 San Diego Comic-Con, Wesley referenced that Kuckenburg announced they got wed in a July 13 Instagram post. Wesley explained that their elopement, which was held in Santa Barbara, California, wasn't exactly planned.

"To be honest, it was like a whole 24-hour thing because we were planning a big wedding. And then we were like, 'Let's just get legally married.' And we were waiting for a cancellation at the Santa Barbara courthouse 'cause it's such a beautiful courthouse, but it was booked out for 3 months. And we found a cancellation the night before," said Wesley, who plays James T. Kirk on Star Trek: SNW, a role originated by William Shatner in Star Trek: The Original Series.

Wesley went on to say that he was impressed with how Kuckenburg, 26, whom he began dating in 2022, handled their last-minute nuptials.

"Natalie is so amazing. She found a dress like that day, and then we ended up, like, literally doing everything, hiring the photographer. Like everything was, like, the day before. And, it was so special because it was so spontaneous. It made it more special. It was just us, and our dog," said Wesley, who finalized his divorce from his second wife, Ines de Ramon, in 2024.

Wesley also joked that the 2026 San Diego Comic-Con was his and Kuckenburg's honeymoon.

"This is our honeymoon. First I took Natalie to Detroit to do a convention there. And now I'm taking her to Comic-Con. Only the best," quipped theVampire Diaries star.

During an appearance at the 2025 San Diego Comic-Con, alongside his Star Trek: SNW castmates, Wesley shared he was appreciative of being a part of the beloved franchise. He said he was specifically honored to be taking on the role of Kirk, who is arguably the sci-fi franchise's most recognizable character.

"I'm so unbelievably honored. I can't express how deeply grateful I am for the opportunity. I'm trying my best to do everything that I can to pay respect and homage to what William Shatner created. And, you know, we just try to have fun and do the best job we can," said Wesley before a room of Star Trek fans.

The fourth and current season of Star Trek: SNW premiered on July 23.

Country Star, With No. 1 Hit Song, Announces 2026 Tour in the United States

Tue, 07/28/2026 - 7:38pm

Country star George Birge has announced that his Cowboy Songs Tour is back, with a new run of 2026 U.S. dates that will take him to cities across the country.

Birge shared the news on Instagram, posting a tour announcement with the caption: "SONGS TOUR IS BACK!! Who are you bringing? Can’t wait to see you there!"

The announcement comes as Birge continues to build on the success of his country music career. His 2024 single "Cowboy Songs" reached No. 1 on the Country Airplay chart, giving the Austin, Texas, native his first No. 1 hit on the chart.

George Birge performs onstage at Nissan Stadium during day four of CMA Fest 2026 on June 7, 2026 in Nashville, Tennessee.

Photo by Jason Kempin/Getty Images

The singer's official tour schedule lists shows from late July through November 2026. The dates include solo performances, festivals and appearances alongside other country artists.

View this post on Instagram

Among the listed shows are performances at Shotskis in Eagle River, Wisconsin, on Friday and Riverside Casino & Golf Resort in Riverside, Iowa, on Aug. 1.

Birge will also appear at the Voices of America Country Music Fest in West Chester, Ohio, on Aug. 9. Later in August, he is scheduled to perform at Addition Financial Arena in Orlando, Florida, as part of the K92.3 All Star Jam, alongside artists including Rodney Atkins, Chris Young, Cole Swindell and Dustin Lynch.

The tour continues through several U.S. regions in September. Birge is scheduled to perform at The River in El Cajon, California, on Sept. 3, followed by shows in Tacoma, Washington, and Redmond, Oregon. He is also listed for FarmJam Music Festival 2026 in Colville, Washington, on Sept. 6.

The Cowboy Songs Tour portion of the schedule includes several dates in the Southeast and East Coast.

Birge is set to perform in Birmingham, Alabama, on Sept. 10, followed by a show in Panama City, Florida, on Sept. 11. The next night, he will perform in Starkville, Mississippi.

The tour then moves to North Carolina and South Carolina, with shows in Greensboro on Sept. 17, Charlotte on Sept. 18 and Isle of Palms on Sept. 19.

The singer will continue his 2026 concert schedule in October, with Cowboy Songs Tour dates in Boston, Massachusetts, on Oct. 8; Allentown, Pennsylvania, on Oct. 9; and Warrendale, Pennsylvania, on Oct. 10.

November brings more Cowboy Songs Tour stops. Birge is scheduled to perform in Columbus, Ohio, on Nov. 6 and Springfield, Illinois, on Nov. 7. He will then head to Wyandotte, Michigan, on Nov. 19, Indianapolis, Indiana, on Nov. 20, and Cleveland, Ohio, on Nov. 21.

The official schedule also includes appearances with other performers. On Oct. 2 and 3, Birge is listed for Tucker Wetmore's Brunette World Tour in Wichita, Kansas, and Waukee, Iowa. On Oct. 17, he is scheduled to appear at Thunder Valley Casino Resort in Lincoln, California, with Tyler Braden and Max McNown.

The schedule also features a show at Bourbon Theatre in Lincoln, Nebraska, on Oct. 1, as well as a Sept. 25 performance at Elevation 27 in Virginia Beach, Virginia, and a Sept. 26 appearance at White Marsh Volunteer Fire Company in White Marsh, Maryland.

Birge's 2026 tour announcement follows a busy period for the country singer. In January, he postponed the first three sold-out shows of his Cowboy Songs Tour because of severe winter weather. The affected shows in Hobart, Indiana; Rootstown, Ohio; and Grand Rapids, Michigan, were moved to April.

At the time, Birge said the decision was made because he did not want fans, his band or his crew to face dangerous road conditions.

“Guys, it absolutely crushes me to say this, but we’re unfortunately gonna have to reschedule the first weekend of the Cowboy Songs Tour,Birge said in an Instagram Stories video.

“As badly as I want to play for you guys, I can’t, in good conscience, put my fans at risk getting there and put my band and crew at risk driving on those roads.”

Fans who had tickets for the original shows were told they could use them for the rescheduled performances.

Birge's return to the road comes after a major breakthrough in his music career. His song "Cowboy Songs" became his first No. 1 on Country Airplay in 2024.

The Austin-born singer first gained wider attention after his independent song "Beer Beer, Truck Truck" went viral on social media in 2021. He later signed with Records Nashville and released "Mind on You," which climbed to No. 2 on Country Airplay.

His follow-up success with "Cowboy Songs" helped establish Birge as a rising name in country music. His 2025 single "It Won't Be Long" later reached No. 3 on Country Airplay.

This year, Birge also released "Ride, Ride, Ride," featuring Luke Bryan. The song draws on Birge's West Texas roots and the cowboy values that have influenced his music.

Now, with the Cowboy Songs Tour back on the calendar, Birge is set to bring his music to audiences across the United States throughout the second half of 2026.

Related: Country Star Is Suddenly Climbing the Charts 13 Years After Beginning Career

1970s Prog-Rock Legends Reunite for Massive Revival With Unreleased Music Nearly 60 Years Later

Tue, 07/28/2026 - 7:36pm

Peter Gabriel, Tony Banks, and Mike Rutherford recently reunited at London’s AIR Studios to revisit Genesis’ debut album, From Genesis to Revelation, and celebrate the long-awaited, massive reissue of the record, which includes contributions from original guitarist Anthony Phillips.

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

In the hands of engineer Stephen W. Tayler, the new release was created with an all-new stereo mix emphasizing the band’s original performances while dialing back the orchestral overdubs that dominated the 1969 release.

View this post on Instagram

The newly remastered and restored set will also showcase never-before-seen reunion footage: exclusive video that shows Gabriel, Banks, and Rutherford listening to the new mixes together and reflecting on their journey.

Fans will get a 68-page collector’s book that features essays and new contributions from the original bandmates, and those interested in vinyl will get a bonus 12-inch EP containing new mixes of “A Winter’s Tale,” “One-Eyed Hound,” “Image Blown Out,” and the previously unreleased “Visions of Angels.”

“Taken together, these new editions of From Genesis to Revelation shine a fresh light on a fascinating and formative release--the sound of Genesis at the very beginning, now revisited with the care, insight, and collaboration with the musicians who made it,” the announcement reads on Gabriel’s official website.

Released in March 1969, From Genesis to Revelation kick-started the journey of a band that would become one of the most legendary progressive rock groups in the world. Once students at the Charterhouse school in Surrey, Gabriel on vocals, Banks on the keys, Phillips on guitar, Rutherford on bass, and Chris Stewart, then shortly after John Silver, on drums joined forces, and the rest is history.

The reissue has long been considered the “odd one out” in the catalog of Genesis due to rights being controlled by producer Jonathan King. That situation prevented the album from being included in previous Genesis archival box sets. This reissue marks the most comprehensive restoration and celebration of the band’s debut in more than five decades.

Related: Music Legend Adds Another Major Career Milestone, Celebrating Her Greatest Gift

1975 Soft Rock Ballad, Lasting Nearly 7 Minutes, Became a Breakthrough Hit

Tue, 07/28/2026 - 7:26pm

When Jefferson Starship released "Miracles" in 1975, the band took a dramatic turn from its psychedelic rock roots.

Running nearly seven minutes in its original album form, the lush, romantic ballad became an unexpected commercial triumph. Not only did it introduce a smoother, more melodic side of the band, but it also delivered Jefferson Starship's first Billboard Top 10 hit, helping establish the group as one of the biggest names in soft rock during the mid-1970s.

The song was written by vocalist Marty Balin, who envisioned something far more intimate than the band's previous material.

Built around gentle guitars, rich harmonies, and Balin's soulful vocal performance, "Miracles" explored love and desire with a warmth that contrasted sharply with the politically charged music associated with Jefferson Airplane, the band's predecessor. Its dreamy production and heartfelt lyrics immediately set it apart.

"People don’t realize how hard a ballad can be," Balin said in a 2017 interview. "You have to have a lot more control. You know, when you're rocking there's that beat, that rocking raucous rhythm you can never get out of, you know, and don't have to and you don't want to. But in a ballad, you've got phrasing, you've got breath, you've got science and you’ve got emotion. You can move to four or five different notes to express what you want. There's so much more control and there's more technique that's involved."

Its length wasn't exactly radio-friendly.

The version included on Red Octopus stretched to nearly seven minutes, prompting radio stations to play a specially edited single version that trimmed more than three minutes from the recording. Notably cut from the radio edit was a particularly suggestive lyric, and while it was never confirmed that the lyric was the reason for the edit, its removal made the song radio-friendly.

Despite the edits, the song retained its emotional impact and quickly became a favorite with listeners.

The gamble paid off.

Released as the lead single from Red Octopus, "Miracles" climbed to No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming the highest-charting single of Jefferson Starship's career. The success helped propel Red Octopus to No. 1 on the Billboard 200, where it became the band's first and only chart-topping album, selling millions of copies and introducing Jefferson Starship to a much broader audience.

"Miracles" also marked a pivotal moment in the band's evolution.

While Jefferson Airplane had become synonymous with the counterculture movement of the 1960s, Jefferson Starship embraced a more polished sound that appealed to mainstream audiences without abandoning the group’s distinctive musicianship. The success of "Miracles" paved the way for later hits including "With Your Love," "Count on Me," and "Jane."

"I love songs," Balin told The State Journal Register in 2013. "Songs can move the world. Music is like the soul of the people, and (when performing) it's like you're connecting with the audience soul to soul. It's a thrilling thing. How can I stop? And why would I want to?"

Nearly 50 years after its release, "Miracles" remains one of the defining soft rock ballads of the 1970s. What began as an ambitious, nearly seven-minute album track ultimately became Jefferson Starship's breakthrough hit, proving that sometimes listeners are more than willing to embrace a song that takes its time.

Related: 1975 Classic Ballad, Named No. 1 Hit for Three Weeks, Became a Soft Rock Anthem

Insiders Claim Macaulay Culkin Held Secret Disney Sit-Down for 'Home Alone' Reboot

Tue, 07/28/2026 - 7:14pm

Rumors are swirling that Macaulay Culkincould be ready to reprise his iconic role as Kevin McCallister from the Home Alone franchise. 

While a reboot is not confirmed, entertainment writer and podcast host Matt Belloni recently shared some insider info on his ‘The Town’ podcast, saying, “I have some intel that I know they really wanted to happen. I got a tip the other day that there was a very interesting sighting on the Disney lot. Macaulay Culkin was there, and he’s talked about doing, having an idea for a new Home Alone, and Disney is like salivating.”

Belloni continued, “Like you think right now of the Culkin brothers, that Kieran would be the hot one since he just won an Oscar. Macaulay Culkin is having his a** kissed like nobody’s business.”

He also shared this unconfirmed tidbit, “They’re offering him another movie, like he could do his own passion project if he would also do another Home Alone and they have a good idea. I’ve talked to people who have heard it, and it’s a really good idea for a Home Alone reboot with Macaulay Culkin.”

And of course, the possibility of this reboot would be, as Belloni put it, “gigantic.”  He explained, “If that happens and they restart the Home Alone franchise, that would be gigantic for the next 10 years, because that movie, as you know, is perennially top of the streaming list from October through Christmas every year.”

In 2025, Culkin spoke toVariety about the possibility of a new sequel, sharing, “I kind of had this idea. I’m either a widower or a divorcee. I’m raising a kid and all that stuff. I’m working really hard, and I’m not really paying enough attention, and the kid is kind of getting miffed at me, and then I get locked out.” 

Culkin also added in the hook: “And he’s the one setting traps for me.” 

While a reboot could potentially happen someday, Home Alone’s director, Chris Columbus, has spoken out against a modern remake. On the film’s 35th anniversary in 2025 (the original was released in 1990), Columbus toldET, “It’s a very nostalgic experience for a lot of people.” 

He explained, “I think Home Alone really exists, not as this time piece but a very special moment, and you can’t really recapture that. I think it’s a mistake to try to go back and recapture something we did 35 years ago…I think it should be left alone.”

As of now, Macaulay Culkin and Disney have not confirmed the reported meeting or a reboot. 

Amy Poehler Admits First-Ever Good Hang Author Guest ‘Makes Me Feel Seen'

Tue, 07/28/2026 - 7:13pm

Amy Poehler welcomed her first author guest on her podcast Good Hang when Anne Lamott recently appeared to promote her new book, Good Writing.

72-year-old Anne Lamott's most famous works include 1994's Bird by Bird, 1999's Traveling Mercies and 2012's Help, Thanks, Wow.  On the podcast, they discuss Lamott's writing process, her journey from alcoholism to Christianity, her marriage to Neal Allen, and finding comfort in small acts of kindness.

But before Lamott could promote her new work, which she co-wrote with her husband Allen, "die hard" fan Tina Fey appeared to praise the author.

Poehler told Fey that Lamott is the “first writer, other than comedy writers like yourself and others,” to appear on the pod.

When asked to describe Lamott's work, Fey called them "honest" and funny," before adding, "It's like meeting a new friend when you meet a friend who you instantly go, oh, you're you're one of my people, because she’s so direct and she’s just so unguarded in her memoirs.”

Related: Mindy Kaling Looks Back on the Blunt Weight Loss Advice Tina Fey and Amy Poehler Gave Her

“Anne’s books — I’ve turned to them many times in my adult life for comfort,” Fey gushed. “These books are all a tremendous comfort, and they help you feel less insane.” She especially recommended Bird by Bird, and admitted she gave it to people all the time as a "demystifying book about writing."

@goodhangwithamy

Anne Lamott is still a sunsetty lavender to us🌅 #writertok #tinafey

♬ original sound - Good Hang with Amy Poehler

When Lamott finally appeared on the pod, Amy praised the author for the way her work "provides comfort," in a "world with so little comfort". “Truly, if I was to sum up what your writing does for me is it makes me feel less alone. And it makes me feel seen,” Poehler told her.

Lamott admitted the comforting nature of her work was very intentional. "What I try to convey to people is that they are loved and chosen and exactly where you’re supposed to be. I really care,” she responded.

Poehler also admitted the pressure she felt having her first author on the podcast, which usually features actors, comedians and musicians. "When I talk to other actors and performers, I feel like we're, I don't know, we're sharing a vocabulary, but there is a, there's a funny thing that happens with writers where people like myself want to make sure that we sound smart."

“Women pass around your work,” theParks and Recreationstar told the author towards the end of the podcast. “Like, what I imagine they did with medicine back in the day, it’s really special. And I’m thrilled that [Fey] wanted to talk about you and to me about you.”

We Asked 3 Psychologists What Hobby Is Best for Couples—They All Said the Same Thing

Tue, 07/28/2026 - 7:11pm

If you've ever asked happy couples for relationship advice, many of them have likely said, "Never stop dating each other." When you first start seeing someone, fun outings help you get to know each other and assess whether or not you're compatible. Over time, you inevitably settle into a cozy routine, but that doesn't mean you can't maintain the novelty in relationships. Shared hobbies for couples are one way of doing just that, so Parade asked three psychologists what hobby is best for partners, and they all said the same thing.

Lest you think you need to take up some exotic new activity, experts say the best things for significant others to enjoy together really don't have to be anything fancy. What matters most is that you seek out a mix of pastimes to improve relationship communication, fun activities for couples at home and romantic hobbies to do together.

To better understand the importance of couples' hobbies, the experts we spoke with explain how new activities mimic the honeymoon phase. They also break down the benefits of shared hobbies versus individual interests. If you've been looking for special outings to reconnect with your partner, you'll also find a list of several ideas worth trying with your main squeeze.

Related: 11 Small Things That Happy, Healthy Couples Always Do, According to a Therapist

The Unanimous Winner: Why Psychologists Want You To Take a Hike Together

Dr. Yasmine Saad, PhD, the founder and Director of Psychological Services at Madison Park Psychological Services, says the best shared hobby isn't necessarily the most "exciting" one.

"It's the one that brings out the best in both people," she tells Parade. "It reinforces a couple's values, reveals each partner's strengths, encourages healthy communication and leaves them feeling more connected than when they started."

With this in mind, hiking is a perfect option for couples looking for a shared hobby.

Related: 25 Relationship Check-In Questions for You and Your Partner

"Hiking is an excellent hobby for couples who enjoy movement, nature and growing through shared experiences," Dr. Saad explains. "It slows couples down, removes distractions and creates moments that invite conversation, teamwork and shared discovery."

Dr. Behnoosh Nadealizadeh, PsyD, a licensed clinical psychologist with Madison Park Psychological Services, says hiking is "a beautiful metaphor for a healthy relationship."

"The destination isn’t the mountain summit. It’s learning how to walk through life’s changing landscapes together," she shares.

Many couples believe connection happens when you're sitting across from each other talking. However, hiking offers something different.

"Instead of facing each other, you walk beside each other," Dr. Nadealizadeh states. "You move through the same landscape, navigate challenges, pause to catch your breath, celebrate small milestones and gradually discover a shared rhythm."

Dr. Tamir Aldad, the CEO of the mental health clinic Mindful Care, says hiking combines novelty and mild physical challenge, making it a "reliable driver of bonding chemistry."

Lastly, doing an activity together in nature can gently regulate each of your nervous systems.

"As our bodies settle and our minds grow quieter, we become more present with ourselves and with one another," Dr. Nadealizadeh explains. "Conversations become more authentic, less reactive and often more meaningful. And sometimes, the deepest moments of intimacy don’t come from talking at all, but from sharing a breathtaking view, a comfortable silence or simply knowing someone is choosing to walk beside you."

Related: The 16 Best ‘Analog Hobbies’ to Pick Up in 2026

The Science of 'Novelty': How New Hobbies Mimic the Honeymoon Phase

When you first start dating someone, everything feels new, and this period of lovestruck bliss is often referred to as the honeymoon phase.

"Everything feels fresh," Dr. Nadealizadeh states. "We naturally ask questions, pay close attention and become fascinated by discovering who the other person is. We are not only exploring a new partner; we are exploring new parts of ourselves that emerge in their presence."

Related: We Asked 3 Psychologists What Quietly Hurts Long-Term Marriages—They All Said the Same Thing

Familiarity gradually replaces curiosity, but that's not necessarily a bad thing.

"Familiarity creates safety, security and trust, which are essential for a lasting relationship," she explains. "But if we’re not intentional, we can slowly fall into the illusion that we already know everything about our partner. We begin relating more to our assumptions than to the living, evolving person standing in front of us."

That's why new hobbies have the power to mimic the honeymoon phase, which is full of novelty.

"Partners see each other in unfamiliar situations, laugh at mistakes, solve problems together and build fresh memories. These experiences interrupt routine, helping long-term relationships feel more vibrant and alive," Dr. Saad says.

Novelty makes life more exciting, but it also makes us pay attention. 

"When couples start paying attention to each other again, they often experience each other differently," she shares.

Related: We Asked 3 Psychologists What Couples Over 50 Fight About Most—It Wasn’t Money

5 Expert-Approved 'Beginner' Hobbies To Try This Weekend 1. Cook a new cuisine

"Cook a new cuisine neither of you has made before," Dr. Aldad suggests. "It's low cost and low commitment, plus the mild unpredictability of trying something unfamiliar creates natural conversation and laughter."

2. Take a dance class

"Dancing invites couples to experience trust, communication, flexibility and playfulness," Dr. Saad explains. "Whether they naturally move in sync or have to learn how to find their rhythm together, the experience isn't about dancing perfectly. It's about creating moments where they can bring out the best in each other."

Related: 125 Hobbies for Women That Will Give You a Fun Break From the Daily Grind

3. Play a new board game or video game

"Being playful together makes room for accomplishing shared goals, healthy competition, laughter and joy. It's also great for our brains as we age together, learn and play different games," licensed marriage and family therapist Sonnet Daymonttells Parade.

Related: 7 Psychological Benefits of Doing Puzzles, According to a Psychologist

4. Start to learn a new language

"Being mutual beginners matters psychologically," Dr. Aldad says. "It puts you on equal footing and removes the performance pressure that comes when one partner is already skilled and the other isn't."

5. Travel

"Travel, even if it's just a two-hour road trip," Daymont says. "Venture off to check out a new city together."

Related: 5 Popular Retirement Hobbies That Quietly Drain Your Mental and Financial Wellness

Shared Hobbies vs. Individual Hobbies: Do You Need Both?

It's great to have shared hobbies as a couple, but it's also important to have individual hobbies.

"I believe healthy relationships need both shared experiences and individual pursuits," Dr. Nadealizadeh tells Parade. "Couples need togetherness just as much as they need individuality. They need unity just as much as they need healthy separation."

To better understand the benefits of both types of hobbies, we asked the pros to break down both shared hobbies and individual hobbies.

  • Individual hobbies: "Individual hobbies allow each partner to preserve their own sense of self while bringing new experiences, perspectives and energy back into the relationship," Dr. Nadealizadeh says. "In many ways, they keep the relationship alive by ensuring there is always something new to share, something new to admire and something new to discover about one another."
  • Shared hobbies: "Shared hobbies create opportunities for the relationship to be experienced at its best," Dr. Saad shares. "They allow couples to enjoy each other's strengths, create meaningful memories and reinforce the feeling that they're building a life together."

Related: I Tried 10 Different ‘Grandma Hobbies’ for 4 Weeks—Here’s the 1 That Actually Stuck

Interactive Play vs. Parallel Play

When it comes to the way you enjoy hobbies together, both interactive and parallel hobbies have an important place in healthy relationships.

"Interactive play helps us experience the joy of creating together. Parallel play helps us preserve the self while remaining deeply connected. One nurtures engagement; the other nurtures peaceful companionship. Both are essential because healthy love requires both togetherness and individuality," Dr. Nadealizadeh says.

Type of Hobby

Examples

Psychological Impact

Interactive Hobbies

Board games, video games, Legos, art projects, tennis, pickleball, dancing and cooking

"Psychologically, interactive play strengthens teamwork, emotional attunement, co-regulation and the sense of 'we,'" Dr. Nadealizadeh says.

Parallel Hobbies

Puzzles, reading, painting, sketching, journaling, gardening, running

"It reminds couples that closeness doesn't always require conversation. Simply being together can create a deep sense of comfort, security and connection," Dr. Saad says.

Up Next:

Related: We Asked 3 Psychologists What Group Activity Is Best for Adults—They All Said the Same Thing

Sources:

Walmart’s $55 Glass-Front Cabinet Is the ‘Perfect’ Fix for Small Bathroom Clutter

Tue, 07/28/2026 - 7:01pm

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

Small bathrooms are one of the hardest spaces to keep organized. When floor space is limited, adding another storage cabinet or shelving unit isn't always an option. That's why over-the-toilet shelving units are such a popular solution for anyone who needs more storage space

Right now, the Costway Over-the-Toilet Storage Cabinet is on a flash deal at Walmart for just $55, down from $99. This slim cabinet features a storage compartment and an open shelf for your most-used items. Shoppers shared that the shelf was “sturdy” and easy-to-assemble, with one saying that it was “perfect” for their small space.

Costway Over-the-Toilet Storage Cabinet, $55 (was $99) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Measuring 22.5 inches wide, 7 inches deep, and 64 inches tall, this freestanding cabinet makes the most of the empty space above your toilet. It is designed to fit over most standard toilets, and provides 31 inches of clearance from the floor to the bottom shelf. 

The cabinet features a white moisture-resistant painted finish, making it a practical choice for a humid bathroom or laundry room. It has a glass-front cabinet at the top for keeping toiletries and other items neatly tucked away. There's also an open shelf below for the essentials you reach for most. To keep it stable, the cabinet comes with an anti-tip fitting that secures it to the wall and prevents it from toppling over.

Shoppers have been impressed with both the cabinet’s appearance and functionality, praising the “good price and simple design.” One reviewer called the cabinet "very beautiful," while another said it provided the extra storage their bathroom had been missing. Several others noted that assembly was straightforward.

Shop More Deals

Related: Drew Barrymore’s ‘Gorgeous’ Wicker Ottoman Has Hidden Storage and Turns Into a Table

At just $55, the Costway Over-the-Toilet Storage Cabinet is an easy way to add storage to a small bathroom. It's part of a limited-time Walmart flash sale, so it's worth grabbing before the price climbs back up!

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.

Target's New Farmhouse-Style Kitchen Find Is Beautiful, Versatile and Perfect for Your Counter

Tue, 07/28/2026 - 6:55pm

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 well-organized kitchen can make everyday routines feel easier and more enjoyable. When countertops are crowded with snacks, bread bags, and small kitchen items, the whole space can start to feel less functional. That is why more homeowners are looking for simple kitchen storage ideas that bring order without sacrificing style.

The best kitchen upgrades are often the ones that blend into your daily life while making a noticeable difference. A good countertop organizer can help reduce clutter, keep essentials within reach, and make the room feel more polished. For anyone who loves a clean and welcoming kitchen, small details like this can go a long way.

😋😋SIGN UP to get delicious recipes, handy kitchen hacks & more in our daily Pop Kitchen newsletter🍳🍔

Wooden Bread Box for Kitchen Countertop with Drawer, $68.99 at Target

target

Shop It!

The Wooden Bread Box for Kitchen Countertop with Drawer from Target is a great example of form meeting function. With its farmhouse-inspired design, acrylic window, and two-layer storage layout, it brings both charm and convenience to the kitchen. It is the kind of piece that feels practical enough for everyday use while still adding a decorative touch to your home.

This type of bread box is especially helpful for homeowners who want a more organized kitchen counter. It can store bread, pastries, snacks, and other dry goods while also helping the room look neater. The built-in drawer adds extra value by giving you a place to keep small kitchen items close by, which makes it a smart choice for busy households.

Related: T.J. Maxx's Beautiful 4-Piece Set of Vintage-Inspired Porcelain Bowls Is a Charming Addition to Any Kitchen

Farmhouse kitchen decor continues to be popular because it creates a warm, timeless look that works in many homes. A wooden bread box fits right into that style while also serving a real purpose. Whether your kitchen leans modern, rustic, or traditional, this kind of storage solution can help tie the space together.

If you are searching for affordable kitchen organization ideas, this is the type of find worth noticing. It offers style, storage, and everyday convenience in one compact piece. For shoppers who want a better-looking countertop without a full kitchen makeover, a wooden bread box with drawer storage is an easy win.

Related: Marshalls Antique-Inspired Lamp Set Gives a Luxe Look for a Budget-Friendly Cost

Tom Holland Shares the Biggest Lesson He Learned From Playing Spider-Man

Tue, 07/28/2026 - 6:49pm

Actor Tom Holland is sharing the big life lesson he's learned from donning Spider-Man's iconic mask over the last decade.

During a July 2026 interview with Extra TV, Holland, who has played Peter Parker, AKA Spider-Man, in several MCU films, was asked, "What has being Spider-Man, throughout this journey, taught you about your friendships and your relationship throughout your life?" Holland replied that portraying the beloved comic book character has instilled that "there's nothing more important in life than friendship, love, community, solidarity, [and] shared experience."

"Getting the chance to get out of the house and experience life with people that you love, people that can teach you things. I love every single one of my friends. The greatest joy of this job is the people that I've met and the experiences I've had. And I think that, you know, if you have someone to lean on, then you have everything you need," said Holland, who has co-starred with his wifeZendaya, the actress behind Michelle Jones "MJ" Watson, in the Spider-Man films, Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017), Spider-Man: Far From Home (2019), Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021), and Spider-Man: Brand New Day, which premieres on July 31.

Tom Holland Revealed He Knew That Fans Wanted Spider-Man Back in New York City

Spider-Man: Brand New Day will see Spider-Man, who is famously from Queens, back patrolling New York City. During a July 2026 interview with Fandango, Holland revealed that he was aware Spider-Man fans wanted Peter back fighting small-scale criminals in NYC, after several movies where he's elsewhere.

"Something I did when I was wrestling with the idea of making this movie was, what is it that the fans want? And I really spent some time online listening to podcasts and watching fan reactions to stuff," said Holland during the July 2026 interview. "And one of the, you know, most obvious things that they wanted was this street-level crime. A New York-based story. And what's so wonderful about this film is New York is as much a character in this film as any of us are. You know, New York is such a unique place. It's so rich in culture, and the texture of the city is incredible."

Stewart Copeland Recruited Two Unknown Musicians — Accidentally Assembling One of the '80s Biggest Rock Groups

Tue, 07/28/2026 - 6:44pm

Before the Police became one of the biggest bands of the 1980s, they were just a handful of musicians who came together thanks to Stewart Copeland.

Over the next decade, the new-wave trio built a catalog of enduring hits, mixing pop, cool reggae, and jazz with punk rock. But all of that was still years away when Copeland first met the future bandmates who'd get him there.

“Do you know where you were on September 25, 1976?” Copeland wrote at the start of his book, Police Diaries 1976-'79. "Maybe not, but I do."

That was the night he happened to see a young Gordon Sumner, later known as Sting, play.

"I was a long-haired alien drummer touring the U.K. in a prog-rock band called Curved Air, and that night we were in Newcastle where I saw a local band called Last Exit," Copeland recalled. "I know that because I was taking notes every day in my now slightly dog-eared, pocket diaries."

He thought the band was "great," but it was their vocalist-bassist who left the biggest impression. Later that night, at a party, the two met and traded phone numbers.

Copeland followed up soon after. “In a later diary entry, after realizing that punk was the future,” the drummer wrote. “I remark on the day that I persuaded [Sting] to move to London and join me in my own punk band.”

That's where the Police formed, within London's growing punk scene. The band began as a trio, made up of Sting, Copeland, and guitarist Henry Padovani, playing their first show together in spring 1977.

Before long, Andy Summers joined as a fourth member. He had seen the trio's live show and was especially impressed by Sting and Copeland's performances.

“I thought there was fantastic potential in Sting and Stewart,” Summers once told The Guardian. “I’d always wanted to play in a three-piece band and throughout all my years of playing I never had. I felt that the three of us together would be very strong. They just needed another guitarist and I thought I was the one.”

Padovani left the band not long after, and the Police returned to a trio lineup. Sting, Copeland and Summers went on to record and release their debut album, Outlandos d'Amour, in 1978, which included "Roxanne." 

The record peaked at No. 6 on the U.K. Albums Chart and No. 23 on the U.S. Billboard 200

The band's next album, Reggatta de Blanc, did even better, reaching No. 1 on the U.K. Albums Chart the following year. Zenyatta Mondatta followed, also topping the U.K. Albums Chart and reaching No. 5 on the US Billboard 200.

By the start of the 1980s, the Police already had hits like "Roxanne," "Message in a Bottle," and "Don't Stand So Close to Me" to their name. 

But even with all that success, the band didn't last much longer. They released their fifth and final album, Synchronicity, in 1983, and broke up in 1986.

When that final record came out, Copeland admitted the band members had already grown distant from each other.

“After five formative years and five albums, you grow apart,” he told Musician magazine. “Now, the only thing that the three of us have in common is onstage and on that album. That’s the only place we achieve synchronicity.”

Related: 1977 Rock Song, With 18-Year-Old Singer, Became a Timeless Underground Anthem

Pages

Sullivan Independent News

Sullivan Independent News
411 Scottsdale
Sullivan, MO 63080

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

 

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