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A DIY home alarm system can be easier to install than many homeowners expect. The bigger question is what happens after installation. Batteries eventually need replacing, sensors can lose their connection and smart security equipment may require troubleshooting or software updates.

For homeowners comparing DIY vs. professionally monitored security, the distinction is important: Professional monitoring does not eliminate routine equipment maintenance, but it can reduce how much troubleshooting you have to handle alone. Here’s what to know.

If you already have a security problem or would rather have a professional assess your home’s coverage, ADT offers free quotes and inspections.

How much maintenance does a DIY home alarm system require?

A DIY home alarm system generally requires occasional hands-on maintenance rather than constant attention. Homeowners may need to replace sensor batteries, respond to system alerts, check that sensors remain connected and troubleshoot equipment when something stops communicating properly. The exact workload depends on the equipment and system.

Replacing Batteries

Battery replacement is one of the most straightforward maintenance tasks on a DIY system. Current ADT Blu equipment includes battery-powered sensors, and several devices use CR123A lithium batteries.

ADT’s support documentation says battery replacement is a self-service option on most systems and devices. Its current motion-sensor guidance, for example, directs customers to replace a depleted CR123A battery and provides step-by-step instructions.

That does not mean every battery will need to be replaced at the same interval. Battery life varies by device and usage, so homeowners should respond to low-battery notifications rather than rely on a single replacement schedule.

Checking Sensor Connections

A sensor that stops communicating with the hub can create a different kind of maintenance task. The first step is often checking the app for a system alert and determining which device has a problem.

For ADT Blu, the system connects sensors to the ADT Base, while the ADT+ app provides system status and alerts. ADT also maintains a support center with troubleshooting instructions for common problems.

If a sensor repeatedly loses communication after basic troubleshooting, the issue may require additional technical support rather than another battery replacement.

Related: Best Home Security Systems for High-Value Homes and Collections

Do DIY security systems need firmware updates?

Firmware is another consideration, but homeowners should not assume they will manually update every device themselves.

Current ADT equipment specifications identify firmware-update status as part of the devices’ LED indicators. That shows firmware updates are part of the equipment’s operation, but the maintenance process depends on the specific device and system.

For homeowners, the practical task is to keep the system connected and pay attention to app or device notifications rather than treating firmware updates like a routine task that requires opening every sensor.

The same principle applies to the ADT+ app itself: Keeping the app current helps ensure that homeowners have access to the latest supported features and troubleshooting tools.

What happens when a DIY security sensor stops working?

When a sensor disconnects, homeowners typically have to determine whether the problem involves the battery, the sensor’s connection to the base, the home’s network or the device itself.

A sensible troubleshooting sequence is:

1. Check the ADT+ app for the affected device or system alert.
2. Check or replace the sensor battery if the system reports a low-battery condition.
3. Confirm that the sensor is properly installed and communicating with the system.
4. Use the manufacturer’s troubleshooting instructions before resetting or replacing equipment.

ADT’s Support Center specifically provides separate resources for troubleshooting and replacement batteries. ADT also offers live support and remote assistance for customers who need help setting up or troubleshooting compatible equipment.

That support can reduce the amount of trial and error involved, but the homeowner still has some responsibility for the equipment.

Ready to protect your home with expert support? Request a free quote and home inspection from ADT today to find the ideal security setup for your needs.

Does professional monitoring handle security system maintenance?

Professional monitoring and professional installation are two different services. Monitoring means trained personnel can respond to alarm events; it does not automatically mean someone else will replace every battery or repair every device.

ADT’s service agreement states that customers are responsible for the maintenance and operation of their equipment, including batteries, wiring and communications. ADT also offers technical support, remote assistance and professional repair services for customers who need additional help.

This distinction is easy to overlook when comparing DIY vs. professionally monitored security. A DIY system with professional monitoring still requires the homeowner to maintain the physical equipment. What professional monitoring changes is what happens when an alarm is triggered—not who owns every routine maintenance task.

DIY vs. professionally monitored security: What’s the difference?

Maintenance consideration

DIY security

Professionally installed/monitored security

Initial installation

Homeowner handles setup

Technician handles installation

Battery replacement

Generally homeowner task

May still be homeowner responsibility, depending on service

Sensor troubleshooting

Homeowner can handle basic issues

Professional support may be available

Alarm response

Depends on selected monitoring

Professional monitoring can respond 24/7

Equipment changes

Homeowner adds or moves compatible devices

Professional assistance may be available

Technical support

App, guides and customer support

Customer support plus professional service options

The biggest difference lies in how much of the maintenance work you want to handle yourself and how much support you want when something goes wrong.

Related: Are Home Security Systems Worth It for Townhomes and Condos With Shared Walls?

How much DIY security maintenance will you actually do?

For many homeowners, routine maintenance is limited to occasional battery changes, checking system notifications and dealing with an occasional connectivity or sensor issue. The workload becomes more noticeable as a system grows to include more sensors, cameras and smart-home devices.

ADT’s current Blu system is designed for self-installation and lets customers manage their equipment through the ADT+ app. ADT says the system can also be paired with professional 24/7 monitoring, giving homeowners the option to handle the equipment themselves while having professional personnel respond to alarm events.

That makes the decision less about whether DIY security requires maintenance—it does—and more about whether you are comfortable being the person who notices, diagnoses and fixes routine equipment problems.

If you prefer having professional help available when equipment problems arise, a system with professional installation and support may reduce that hands-on burden.

Get a Free Quote for Professionally Supported Home Security

If you’re comparing a DIY system with professionally supported security, start by looking at what you actually want to handle yourself. Installation, battery replacement and basic troubleshooting are separate from professional alarm monitoring, and different systems divide those responsibilities differently.

Whether you want a flexible self-installed system or full professional coverage, ADT offers tailored solutions to fit your lifestyle. Get your free home security quote today and take the guesswork out of protecting what matters most.

Some or all of this content may have been generated by AI. While we strive for accuracy, AI can occasionally produce incorrect information. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

Actor and comedian Jon Lovitz is getting candid about his five-year run as a Saturday Night Live castmate.

During an appearance on an October 2026 episode of Michael Rosenbaum‘s podcast, Inside of You, Lovitz, who joined SNL in 1985, described being on the sketch comedy series as “very great and difficult.”

He then explained that the show’s cast won’t often find approval from SNL creator and executive producer, Lorne Michaels.

“If you’re on the show looking for approval from Lorne, that’s like you’re dead in the water. But he’s got a million other things on his mind. I get along with him great. I love the guy. He gave me the life I dreamed of. But when I was on the show, it was a very rough year,” said Lovitz.

In addition, the 69-year-old noted that his sketch comedy background was from The Groundlings, where he was allowed two weeks to “write a sketch.” However, at SNL, the weekly show’s writing was limited to just one night.

“I was there till 7 in the morning from Tuesday when I wrote three sketches a night. I worked my a– off, which is a big reason why I did so well. I mean, you know, yeah, it was a lot of pressure that year,” explained Lovitz during the podcast interview.

He then noted that his character, Tommy Finnegan, known for lying, became extremely popular with SNL viewers, which lessened the pressure.

“Then my character hit, but we had a rough time for a while,” said the League of Their Own star.

Jon Lovitz Shared How He Came Up With Tommy Finnegan

During a 2023 interview on The Howard Stern Show, Lovitz shared that he came up with Tommy Finnegan during his time at the Groundlings. He said he first tried out playing the liar during a segment where different characters introduce themselves to the audience.

“I go, ‘Oh, my name is Tommy Finnegan. I’m a member of Pathological Liars Anonymous. In fact, I am the president of that organization.’ And I was playing it like an old movie character from the ’30s because I like those old movies,” said Lovitz. “And then they asked me, the audience, asked questions. They go, ‘How long have you been lying?’ I go, ‘I never lied.'”

He then said fellow Groundling member, screenwriter Robin Schiff, pointed out the genius of the character.

“Robin Schiff, she wrote Romy and Michele, big writer, she was in the group, and she goes, ‘Jon, just stay in character, and you can say anything. You set it up perfectly.’ I didn’t even realize it. And she goes, ‘I’ll ask you a question. What’s your favorite sport?’ And I went, ‘Uh, bowling.’ And we started laughing,” recalled Lovitz.

Reba McEntire’s son Shelby Blackstock has announced that he’s welcomed his first baby with his wife Marissa. The couple announced that they were expecting their bundle of joy back in April, and now couldn’t be happier to finally be able to call themselves parents.

Taking to Instagram, Shelby shared a series of snaps of their little one and gushed all about their little one – who has been named Shelby Archer McEntire Blackstock.

The couple said: “After everything it took to get here, we finally get to call ourselves mom and dad. We’ve been taking these first few weeks just for us and there’s nowhere else we’d rather be. He had a rough first week, but at least he had the look down.”

The post follows the couple’s excited pregnancy announcement earlier this year online, with a joint post breaking the news. Alongside a carousel of sweet photos from Walt Disney World, the new parents shared: “Oh, BOY! We’re beyond excited to FINALLY announce our little man is coming in October. See ya real soon, pal! Mommy + Daddy love you!”

Shelby and Marissa got married back in 2022 after six years of dating. Though they actually first met back in 2014 after matching on Tinder. They tied the knot at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida, with Reba and her boyfriend Rex Linn among the wedding guests.

Gushing to PEOPLE about their love story, the couple said at the time how indescribable their connection is. They recalled: “We made fast friends early on and have had a strong bond ever since. We are twin flames. There’s this indescribable feeling of déjà vu when we are together — as if life is reminding us that we’re following our destiny. In retrospect, our mutual friends could see how compatible we are. They would always recommend that we should date; I think we were the only ones who didn’t see it (at the time).”

Dancing With The Stars pro Val Chmerkovskiy is back in the ballroom.

According to People, Chmerkovskiy resumed rehearsals with celebrity partner Jenna Dewan as of Wednesday, Oct. 21. He is expected to return to the show on Tuesday, Oct. 27, for “Horror Movie Night.”

As a result of the dancer’s one-show suspension, which was briefly addressed by hosts Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough at the top of Tuesday’s “Dedication Night” episode, Dewan performed with pro Alan Bersten.

The couple scored a 37/40 for their Viennese waltz to “Unchained Melody” by the Righteous Brothers dedicated to Dewan’s mother, Nancy.

“Thank you for stepping in and doing such an amazing job,” Chmerkovskiy wrote in the comment section of Bersten’s Instagram post showcasing the routine. “Jenna looks so good and most importantly happy.”

RELATED: Val Chmerkovskiy Breaks Silence on ‘DWTS’ Suspension

The suspension was handed down by BBC Studios over comments Chmerkovskiy made about judge Carrie Ann Inaba on TikTok.

The controversy began the day after the show’s “Super Bowl Night,” during which Inaba offered harsh criticism of Chmerkovskiy’s wife, DWTS pro Jenna Johnson, and her celebrity partner, Harry Shum Jr.

In a since-deleted post, Chmerkovskiy reacted to Inaba’s comments, writing, “You almost saw Fresh Prince enter the ballroom last night,” seemingly referencing Will Smith slapping Chris Rock at the 2022 Oscars.

In a statement released on Saturday, Oct. 17, BBC Studios announced the dancer’s punishment, saying, “The well-being of everyone who works on Dancing with the Stars is non-negotiable. Val’s social media post was inappropriate and does not reflect the values or standards expected of anyone connected with the show. As a result, he will not participate in next week’s show.”

In a statement shared to his Instagram Story that same day, Chmerkovskiy addressed his suspension and apologized again for his comments. He had previously apologized to Inaba via Instagram after his post went viral online.

Inaba did not address Chmerkovskiy’s absence during Tuesday’s show.

DWTS airs Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET/PT on ABC and Disney+.

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

One of the most important things we can do in our youth is set ourselves up for a strong financial future. There are the wider financial choices like savings accounts, 401(k) plans and investment portfolios, but there are also the everyday little financial decisions we make, such as signing up for vitamin subscriptions and deciding between paying cash or credit.

That being said, the things that can help us save money and ultimately build financial wealth have changed a lot over the years. In fact, some of the tips and tricks that used to help customers save money just a few years ago can actually cost more money today.

To learn more, we spoke with financial expert Bob Wheeler, CPA, founding partner of Wheeler and Bi CPA, author of The Money Nerve and host of the “Money You Should Ask” podcast.

“These days, I find that for myself and for clients, the game is how to strategize against ourselves so we don’t self-sabotage our savings and investments,” he tells Parade.

Below, he shares five things that used to save money but don’t anymore, as well as four of his best general money-saving tips. Keep reading for his insights.

Related: Want To Be More Financially Savvy This Year? Here Are 100 of the Best Budget Tips for 2026

Why Saving Money Is So Different Now Than It Was in the Past

“Consumer trust has been lost,” Wheeler says. “We used to be able to trust the pricing and the terms to which we’ve agreed.”

However, things have changed a lot in the past few years.

“Marketing and use of specific words get us to buy things that sound like a good deal, but aren’t once you read the small print,” he explains. “At this point, not reading the fine print, not doing the math and not asking questions is what ends up costing us more. Most people want the simple answer or the quickest way to buy and move on. And companies count on us not reading small print or asking questions.”

Because of this, Wheeler—a Certified Public Accountant—always takes the extra time to do the research.

“I’ve learned to ask questions even if it slows up the line or it takes me an extra 30 minutes to make the purchase,” he says. “I don’t worry if I’m slowing down the line; I make sure that I am advocating for myself.”

Related: Financial Advisor Says This Common Money Habit Could Cost You Thousands After 50

These 5 Tricks Used To Save You Money but Often Cost More Now 1. Brand loyalty

“In the past, loyalty was rewarded,” Wheeler states. “Companies wanted to give incentives to long-term customers. Now it seems that phone companies, insurance companies and other big brands offer their best deals to new customers.”

He does not foresee companies reverting to previous models of rewarding brand loyalty anytime soon—but he has a tip to get good deals with companies that provide phone, insurance, internet, etc.

“Start playing companies against each other to get the best deal,” he advises. For example, get quotes from multiple companies, and then use the cheapest deal as leverage when negotiating with a rep from the service you actually want to use.

2. Buying in bulk

UCG / Getty Images

“In the past, if you bought in bulk, the overall price came down,” shares Wheeler. “But it seems these days, many people just buy without thinking or doing the math—so when people see they can buy in bulk, they assume it will be cheaper. Now, even at the big bulk stores, you have to actually do the math to see if you are paying more or less.”

As a CPA, Wheeler doesn’t hesitate to whip out his calculator in the grocery store.

“I’ve discovered that sometimes buying more costs me more,” he says. “I actually do the math on my phone to see which is the better deal, even with the online purchasing.”

He also notes that often when people buy in bulk, they “end up throwing away spoiled food or not using all of the product,” which is the opposite of saving!

Related: Finance Experts Are Begging You To Stop Doing These 9 Things 5 Years Before Retirement

3. Using brick-and-mortar banks

“It used to be that the big banks or your local bank was where you would go to put money in savings,” says Wheeler. But nowadays, “there are many federally insured online banks that don’t have overhead or large staff, that are able to offer higher interest rates than more traditional bank[s].”

That said, interest rates vary from bank to bank, so he recommends researching all different types of banks before joining one, reading the fine print and asking about special offers.

4. Subscription plans

These days, there are subscriptions for pretty much everything, from toilet paper and vitamins to iPhone apps and TV streamers.

“Subscription plans used to instill loyalty and better pricing,” Wheeler notes. But nowadays, “everyone seems to be charging monthly subscriptions,” which can lead to customers accidentally signing up for subscriptions.

“Sometimes you sign up for a one-time purchase only to find out you have been paying a monthly fee that you signed up for unintentionally,” he states.

He checks his credit card statement regularly to see what subscriptions he’s paying for.

5. Paying cash instead of credit

skaman306 / Getty Images

Back in the day, companies commonly gave discounts to customers who made purchases in cash, since it meant they could avoid credit card processing fees—but not anymore. For instance, Wheeler recently purchased a camper and told the salesperson he was going to pay cash, assuming he might be able to save a few pennies.

“The salesperson told me that I was better off buying it on credit and then paying off the loan in three to six months, because the manufacturers and the lenders gave better deals when purchased on credit,” he explains. “Now I ask before I buy if paying cash makes a difference. Sometimes it does, but I was surprised that in some instances, cash cost me more.”

Why is this? Wheeler has a theory: “Many companies want you putting it on credit because they know most folks won’t pay it off and they make a killing on the interest and finance charges.”

Related: 13 Smart Ways Women Over 50 Are Building Wealth, According to Financial Planners

4 Financial Expert-Approved Tips for Saving Money

Wheeler shares four of his top tips for saving money in the present day.

1. Set up automated transfers into savings

Wheeler recommends setting up your checking account to automatically transfer small amounts of money into your savings account one to three times per week.

“I find that doing several small amounts throughout the week is easier than trying to do one big payment per month,” he says. “It’s easier on cash flow, and you hardly notice the small amounts going out.”

2. Start a piggy bank

Guido Mieth / Getty Images

Twice a week (or even nightly, if you use cash often), Wheeler recommends that you “take out all $5 bills and/or $10 bills and put them in a physical piggy bank or a container that isn’t easy to open.”

The reason? It’s “a fun way to save money,” he reveals. Once the piggy bank is full, you’ll have found money you might have forgotten about.

Related: 7 Passive Income Ideas That Actually Work for Busy Women Over 50

3. Unlink your checking and savings accounts

According to Wheeler, the “majority of your savings accounts should not be directly tied to your checking account.”

If the accounts are linked, you’ll be able to transfer money from your savings into your checking account in seconds, which could tempt you to spend money you didn’t intend to spend yet.

“I use online banks or apps so that it takes effort to get money back out of my savings accounts,” he says. “I don’t want to make it easy for myself to pull out money.”

4. Take a beat before making a purchase

Before making a purchase, Wheeler recommends asking yourself if you “really need it.”

“Take a moment and feel into whether this is an impulse buy, a real want or a real need,” he states. “Sleep on it for major purchases. In other words, see if you still feel the need to spend the next morning. Often, after the excitement of the moment has passed, we realize we didn’t need to spend the money and we ended up saving more because we didn’t.”

Up Next:

Related: Millennials Are Missing This One Skill—And It’s Costing Them Thousands, Financial Expert Says

Source:

• Bob Wheeler, CPA, is the founding partner of Wheeler and Bi CPA, author of The Money Nerve and host of the “Money You Should Ask” podcast.

Classic Christmas decor never goes out of style. Think red-and-green plaid, cozy kitchens filled with the smell of freshly baked cookies ready to go in Grandma’s cookie jar, and holiday tableware that looks like it could have been passed down through generations. While I love a beautifully coordinated Christmas tablescape as much as anyone, you don’t need to spend much to make your home feel merry and bright. Sometimes, it’s the little details that bring the most holiday magic.

And if you’re a fan of traditional Christmas charm, Dollar Tree has a festive find that deserves a spot on your holiday shopping list. Its new Christmas-Themed Plaid Bowls are just $1.50 each, and they’re giving all the nostalgic, old-fashioned Christmas vibes I want in my kitchen this time of year. They make you want to put on a Christmas movie and pretend you’re living in a Hallmark movie for the afternoon.

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

Christmas-Themed Plaid Bowls, $1.50 at Dollar Tree

Dollar Tree

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The bowls come in assorted designs, each featuring a festive message that feels right at home in a traditional holiday setting. One reads “Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” another simply says “Joy” and a third proclaims “Merry Christmas.” Paired with their classic plaid patterns around the edges, the designs have that cheerful, timeless look that never feels out of place during the holidays.

I’m a big fan of holiday finds that feel fun without going overboard on the novelty factor. Don’t get me wrong—I love a goofy Santa mug as much as anyone, but traditional colors, patterns and simple holiday lettering feel extra charming. These bowls strike that sweet spot between playful and classic, making them easy to mix into an existing collection of Christmas dishes.

Related: This Cozy T.J. Maxx Faux-Fur Comforter Set Makes It Hard to Get Out of Bed in the Morning

Dollar Tree’s Adorable Christmas Bowls Are Giving Classic Holiday Charm

And let’s talk about the possibilities. I’d use them to serve up oatmeal, display individually wrapped candies on the coffee table or hold nuts and other snacks during a holiday gathering. They’d also be adorable filled with homemade cookies to display for guests or tucked into a festive gift basket alongside hot cocoa packets and chocolate.

At $1.50 apiece, you could pick up a few different designs without hurting your holiday budget. I’d even mix and match the messages for an extra-cheerful display. After all, who says your holiday tableware has to match perfectly to look merry?

Related: Dollar Tree’s New Red-and-White Dinnerware Collection Is Giving Major Holiday Tablescape Inspiration

In 1994, Candlebox scored its biggest hit with “Far Behind,” a song that helped turn the Seattle rock band into one of the decade’s biggest breakout acts. More than three decades later, frontman Kevin Martin thought his days with the band were nearly over.

Then an old bandmate came back.

Martin announced more than four years ago that he planned to retire, and Candlebox appeared to be carefully bringing its story to a close. The band released what was billed as its final album The Long Goodbye in 2023, coinciding with the 30th anniversary of its self-titled debut, and embarked on a series of farewell tours.

But original guitarist Pete Klett’s return to the group in 2025 changed Martin’s mind.

“Pete coming back to the band re-sparked my love for music,” Martin told Highway 81 Revisited in a new interview.

Klett had not written or regularly performed with Martin in years, and Martin admitted that before their reunion, he was feeling burned out both creatively and from touring.

“I didn’t feel like I’m where I want to be as an artist, as a creative, and I was pretty burned out from touring,” Martin said.

Klett initially returned to fill in for guitarist Brian Quinn, but playing together again quickly became something more permanent. According to Martin, Klett told him he missed performing with the group and asked whether there was any chance he could put retirement on hold.

Martin agreed to see where things went.

“And we started working and we jammed some dates last year, and I’m like, yeah, we can forgo that,” Martin recalled. “Let’s make some moves.”

Those moves now include new music and more touring. Candlebox has released the new song “I Remember Everything” and is headlining its I Can’t Quit You tour, with various dates featuring Sponge, The Verve Pipe, Sweet Water, American Blonde and The Mountain Goats.

It’s another unexpected chapter for a band whose first chapter was enormous.

Candlebox formed in Seattle in 1990 and became the first rock band signed to Madonna’s Maverick Records. Its self-titled debut arrived in 1993 and eventually went quadruple platinum, propelled by songs including “You,” “Cover Me” and “Far Behind.”

Related: 1997 Hit by Days of the New Ranked the ‘Greatest Mainstream Rock Song of All Time’

“Far Behind” became Candlebox’s highest-charting Hot 100 hit, peaking at No. 18. The song also reached No. 4 on Billboard’s Mainstream Rock chart and No. 7 on the Alternative chart.

At the height of the band’s early success, Candlebox toured with Rush and Metallica and performed at Woodstock ’94. Martin told Highway 81 Revisited that the group was once selling 150,000 albums a week while trying to figure out how to handle its sudden success.

The band’s second album, 1995’s Lucy, went gold, but Candlebox eventually broke up in 2000 before reuniting in 2006. Several more albums followed, culminating in what was supposed to be the finale, The Long Goodbye.

Now, apparently, the goodbye wasn’t quite as long as expected.

Martin isn’t promising Candlebox will continue forever. Asked whether he is officially out of retirement, the singer joked that he has “half a foot in the water.” But Klett’s return has given him a reason to keep going.

“I was done and then Pete came back and I was like, oh, this is fun,” Martin said. “Let’s see how much longer we can go.”

For now, Martin says Klett has him until his voice gives out, whether that means another three years, five years or something else entirely.

More than three decades after “Far Behind” helped make Candlebox famous, the band suddenly isn’t quite ready to leave its career behind.

Related: Metallica Frontman Blasts Other Entertainers’ ‘Bulls–t’ During Concerts

Sydney Sweeney just debuted a racy new Syrn lingerie ad, and it features some of your favorite Christmas characters. 

The Euphoria actress took a cue from a few of the most beloved holiday classics, including Home Alone 2: Lost in New York, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, White Christmas, and The Nightmare Before Christmas. 

Sweeney recently posted the clip on Instagram, starting the video off by digging into a hot fudge sundae à la Kevin McCallister (played by Macaulay Culkin) from the Home Alone franchise. She turns on a TV to reveal another video of herself. But this time she’s channeling Dr. Seuss’s Cindy Lou Who from the beloved 1966 animated Grinch. 

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The jaw-dropping ad quickly switches to a Nightmare Before Christmas theme and then moves on to a snowy (and extremely showy) White Christmas moment. 

What do fans think of the risqué marketing campaign? One joked, “Not quite the same thing Kevin was watching in Home Alone,” as others responded, “Sydney Lou who!!!!!” and “So good!” While the responses were overwhelmingly positive, some of Sweeney’s fans pointed out the impending backlash.

“This one’s gonna make them rage”, “Another meltdown loading,” and “How many women are going to get triggered with this post? Popcorn time.”

The 29-year-old’s lingerie and loungewear brand Syrn also posted pics from the clip on Instagram, giving her fans the chance to voice their opinions on the still snapshots. While you might expect a string of explicit statements to follow the photos, some of the comments were pretty tame (and completely complimentary). 

“Third photo=vintage Hollywood vibe,” gushed one commenter.

Another added, “The third image is absolutely Emma Frost.” But the comments didn’t end there. Sweeney’s followers kept the praise going with, “Love it!”, “Angel”, “All the photos are amazing,” and “That red combo is absolutely stunning.” 

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Even though it looks like this Christmas campaign is controversy-free (at least for now), Sweeney did spark a backlash last month when she posed nearly nude for the sports-prediction market company Novig. Several well-known female athletes criticized Sweeney for sexualizing sports. Retired Olympic swimmer Ariarne Titmus shared on Instagram, ”I can’t describe how infuriated I feel when I watch this. Not only is it a kick in the face to every woman who has dedicated her life to perfecting her craft, but every woman who enjoys sports for what it really is—teamwork, friendship, dedication, excellence, unity.”

Hannah Gosselin, one of Jon and Kate Gosselin’s sextuplets, has broken her silence following her brother Collin Gosselin’s memoir and news of their upcoming Netflix documentary, revealing that she and Collin do not have a close relationship.

“I’ve decided to take a step back from the situation going on, considering I haven’t lived with my dad in over a year and haven’t spoken to Collin in close to a year,” she shared in a TikTok Story on Wednesday, October 21. “Having said that, I have had a relationship with my mom and other siblings for quite a few years now.”

Hannah, 22, added, “And that’s the only thing I’m clearing up. Beyond this I will not be commenting on Collin’s behavior growing up or my experiences growing up with him.”

While Hannah did not elaborate on what caused the rift between her and her brother, her remarks came hours after the streaming service announced an upcoming documentary — which is set to feature interviews with Jon, Collin, and Hannah.

“The new documentary takes a closer look, piecing together the story from every angle: the children who grew up on camera, the adults who built a brand around them, and the audience that couldn’t look away,” the streaming service announced. “It’s an intimate look at how real life became a phenomenon the world thought it knew.”

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

If your idea of a perfect fall evening involves curling up with a blanket and watching TV, Walmart has a chair you’ll want to see. The Bybyme Round Boneless Corduroy Lounge Chair is currently on sale for $240, down from $440. It’s roomy enough to stretch out or snuggle up, and it comes with a matching footrest. You can choose from several colors, including gray, beige, black, green, and navy, plus two L-shaped configurations at different prices.

The chair is covered in soft, ribbed corduroy and features deep tufted cushions, wide armrests, and matching pillows. It’s built with high-density foam for cushioning and support, and its rounded shape gives it a cozy, almost nest-like feel. It measures 64 inches deep, 51 inches wide, and 31 inches high, so it offers plenty of space, and you won’t have to assemble anything. Just unpack it and allow up to 72 hours for the foam to expand fully.

Bybyme Round Boneless Corduroy Lounge Chair, $240 (was $440) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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One of the chair’s best features is the rounded footrest that zips onto the main seat, creating a long, cushioned surface where you can stretch out completely. You can also separate the pieces when you want to sit upright or use the footrest on its own. It’s a great setup for reading, watching movies, or relaxing without rearranging the cushions every time you move.

“This chair is like lying on a cloud,” one shopper wrote, adding, “It is super comfortable, oversized, and so perfect for snuggles.” Another shared, “It’s super soft and durable. The covers are washable too.” A third person even called it the “best chair ever.”

Related: Walmart’s Assembly-Free Corduroy Folding Sofa Bed Is a ‘Comfy’ Multi-Use Seat and Sleeper for Under $100

This would be a cute addition to a bedroom or living room where you want a dedicated spot to unwind. Just keep in mind it measures more than 5 feet deep with the footrest attached, so you’ll need extra floor space. The zipper also makes it easier to get out of the chair, since you can separate the footrest rather than climbing over it.

Shop More Walmart Chair Deals

• Ovios Oversized Chaise Lounge Chair, $254 (was $400) at Walmart
• Muumblus Tufted Velvet Lounge Chair, From $199 (was $399) at Walmart
• Daluvenix Velvet Accent Chair, From $117 (was $210) at Walmart

If you’ve been thinking about upgrading your favorite TV-watching spot, this sale is a great opportunity to do it for less. The Bybyme Round Boneless Corduroy Lounge Chair is an inviting place to spend colder evenings at home, so grab it while it’s still 45% off at Walmart and get your new lounging spot prepped for fall and winter.

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Trisha Yearwood is turning heads with a fresh new look, but her latest red carpet appearance was about a cause close to her heart. The Grammy-winning country singer, 62, stepped out in New York City on October 19 for the Best Friends Animal Society’s annual fundraising gala, showing off a chic new bob haircut and a noticeably slimmer silhouette. Wearing a tailored navy pantsuit with a ruffled white blouse, the “She’s in Love With the Boy” singer looked effortlessly stylish as she supported an organization dedicated to helping homeless animals.

Trisha Yearwood Shows Off New Look at New York Charity Gala View this post on Instagram

Yearwood made a stunning red carpet appearance at the Best Friends Gala in New York City. Wearing a gorgeous navy pantsuit and ruffled blouse, the 62-year-old country sensation looked effortlessly chic. The pantsuit perfectly showcased her svelte physique while allowing her recent hair makeover, a golden-blonde, shoulder-length bob, to steal the show.

Yearwood shared photos from the event, which was held on October 19 at The Glasshouse in New York City and hosted by The View co-host Sara Haines, alongside the caption, “Celebrating our four-legged friends at the Best Friends Gala!” She also thanked the organization for its work.

Fans, in turn, expressed their gratitude to Yearwood for her tireless support of animal rescue efforts, but despite the sincere thanks, they couldn’t help but notice her new look.

“Gorgeous,” “Beautiful” and “That suit and that hair,” gushed fans, one after another.

Related: 1980s Country King Turned Down Offer to Join Dire Straits to Stay Loyal to His Sound

Why Animal Rescue Is So Important to Trisha Yearwood View this post on Instagram

Every red carpet appearance gives a celebrity the chance to shine, but Yearwood’s commitment to animal rescue goes far beyond attending charity events. She founded Dottie’s Yard, a nonprofit fund named after her beloved rescue dog, to help animal shelters with medical expenses, food and other necessities.

She also launched the Trisha Yearwood Pet Collection, which donates a portion of its proceeds to animal welfare organizations. Yearwood has been an active supporter of Best Friends Animal Society, donating both food and money to support its mission.

What Trisha Yearwood Has Said About Weight Loss and Aging

Yearwood has been open about her relationship with weight, including losing 30 pounds in 2013 through dietary changes and exercise, while emphasizing the importance of finding a sustainable lifestyle. She’s also shared in interviews how challenging it can be to age in the public eye, explaining that she hopes to find a balance between looking her best and aging gracefully.

Judging by her recent red carpet appearance, she seems to have found that balance.

Related: Dolly Parton’s Sister Says Her Ballot Kept Switching to Another Candidate While Voting Early in Tennessee

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Lily Allen has paused and taken a moment to reflect on the success of her tour, West End Girl. The talented singer chatted in a recent interview with The Times about how the album and its accompanying tour have truly had such a significant impact on her life.

The star said: “The album and tour having been a success has given me a sense of agency and accomplishment. I feel like I’m here: a single mum supporting two teenagers on my own. I don’t need to be taken care of any more. There’s definitely a sense of liberation in that.”

Lily also more broadly shared that she considers herself to be “just happy” and “in a good place” lately after wrapping up a series of shows on her North American leg of the West End Girl Tour. She noted how she’s been “living in the day” and “not planning too much” ahead of the Oceania shows this week – the final performances yet to go.

Lily’s album “West End Girl” came out a year ago and peaked at the number 2 spot in the UK charts. The album achieved success in the US too, climbing to spot number 93 in the US Billboard 200. This was a memorable moment for Lily, marking her first album to reach these heights since her 2014 release, “Sheezus”.

The singer furthered her milestones by performing some of her new album tracks on Saturday Night Live, where she last performed all the way back in 2007.

The songs on “West End Girl” centered around Lily’s split from her ex-husband David Harbour. The pair called time on their romance in early 2025 with reasons for the split being cited as a breakdown of their open marriage, allegations of infidelity both physically and emotionally, busy work schedules, and long periods of living separate lives.

Doriss Day had already scored numerous hits by 1956, so she knew what worked with audiences. But when she was asked to record “Que Sera, Sera (Whatever Will Be, Will Be)” for an Alfred Hitchcock film, she reportedly had little interest in the song and vowed to never sing it again after recording it. 

Written by Jay Livingston and Ray Evans, the song appeared in Hitchcock’s The Man Who Knew Too Much, which starred Day alongside Jimmy Stewart.

Despite her reluctance, it became one of her best-known recordings and her final Top 5 single. The songwriters also won an Academy Award for Best Original Song for “Que Sera, Sera” at the 1957 Oscars.

In the book Songwriters on Songwriting, Livingston recalled how Day reacted when she was asked to record the tune. 

“She didn’t want to record it, but the studio pressured her,” Livingston said. “She did it in one take and said, ‘That’s the last you’re going to hear of this song.’”

Livingston also explained how the song came about, revealing that Hitchcock contacted the songwriting duo with a specific request. The director needed a song for Day to perform in the film, despite reportedly not wanting her in the role. 

“We got a call from Alfred Hitchcock. And he told us that he had Doriss Day in his picture, whom he didn’t want,” Livingston recalled. 

“But MCA, the agency, was so powerful that they said if he wanted Jimmy Stewart, he would also have to take Doriss Day and Livingston and Evans. It was the only time an agent got us a job that I can remember. Hitchcock said that since Doriss Day was a singer, they needed a song for her.” 

Hitchcock gave the songwriters a clear idea of what he wanted. Day’s character would sing the song to a boy, and he wanted a foreign-sounding title for a specific reason. 

“He said, ‘I can tell you what it should be about,’” Livingston added. “‘She sings it to a boy. It should have a foreign title because Jimmy Stewart is a roving ambassador and he goes all over the world.’”

Decades later, listeners are still discovering the song and revisiting Day’s performance. In the comments under a YouTube upload, one fan called it their favorite version of the song, writing, “as usual, Doris Day ROCKS.”

Another praised the film scene itself, noting, “Just this scene shows what a great actress Doriss Day was.”

Related: 1991 Rock Album Surpasses AC/DC on ‘Best-Selling Albums of All Time’ List

 M*A*S*H star Mike Farrell, who famously played Captain B.J. Hunnicutt, shared the emotional reason he finds it difficult to watch the beloved series.

In an April 2026 interview on the Still Here Hollywood Podcast w/ Steve Kmetko, Farrell shared that “it’s a little hard” to tune into reruns of M*A*S*H, which had an 11-season run until 1983. He explained that he gets emotional seeing his late M*A*S*H castmates, David Ogden Stiers, who died in 2018 at the age of 75, and Harry Morgan, who died in 2011 at the age of 96. In addition, he described filming the series for eight years as making quite an impact on his life.

“To see David and to see Harry, who I loved dearly, you will find, forgive me, as we talk about the show, I will get teary-eyed,” said the actor, now 87. “Because the experience was so profound for me, and I remain in love with the show and with the people and with the experience. So yes, it’s fun to see things and say, ‘Ah, I remember that gag and da da da.’ But I don’t make a point of sitting down and watching it from top to bottom.”

Mike Farrell Discussed the Kindness of His ‘M*A*S*H‘ Castmates

During the Still Here Hollywood Podcast w/ Steve Kmetko episode, Farrell noted that he came onto the series during the show’s 4th season, following Wayne Rogers‘ exit as “Trapper John” McIntyre.

He said that after he was cast as B.J., Alan Alda, who wrote, directed, and starred as Hawkeye Pierce for M*A*S*H, took him to dinner, where they had a wonderful conversation.

“We had just a terrific time. He talked about the show and his hopes for it, his dreams and his intentions and, you know, about the hopes for this character and what it could be, what it could mean after Trapper left. And I thought, ‘Oh my god, I’ve died and gone to heaven,'” said Farrell.

In a 2023 interview with That’s Classic, Farrell also said he was immediately welcomed by the cast, including Gary Burghoff, Loretta Swit, Jamie Farr, and Larry Linville.

“It was like, you know, a dream come true. Then as the work proceeded, it became just so incredibly wonderful, so fabulously warm and welcoming to me,” said the actor.

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Finding everyday fall boots that look stylish and feel comfortable shouldn’t mean having to compromise on either. Whether you’re heading to work, meeting friends for brunch, or spending the day admiring the foliage, you want a pair that can keep up without leaving your feet sore. Dr. Scholl’s is known for comfort-focused footwear, and the brand has plenty of options that are both chic and practical for all-day wear.

One great example is Dr. Scholl’s Reverie Block Heel Zip Short Boots, which are now on sale for 55% off at Macy’s, bringing the price down from $90 to just $41 in the woodsmoke, honey brown, and black styles The boots are available in sizes 6 through 12, with medium and wide widths to help you find a more comfortable fit. You can also choose from three other colors at varying prices, with options featuring either a faux-leather upper for a sleek finish or a softer microfiber upper. 

Dr. Scholl’s Reverie Block Heel Zip Short Boots, From $41 (were $90) at Macy’s 

Courtesy of Macy's

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The short ankle height makes these boots easy to pair with a variety of fall styles, while the metallic zipper pull adds a subtle detail that elevates the design. A back pull tab also makes them easier to slip on, so getting ready doesn’t have to be a hassle. The boots feature a 1-inch stacked block heel and a 0.3-inch platform, giving you a little lift without the discomfort of a traditional high heel. Fabric lining and a fabric-covered insole help keep the interior comfortable.

What really sets these boots apart is their comfort-focused construction. They have an outer zipper and a stretchy panel on the inside to help ensure a comfortable fit. Dr. Scholl’s Anti-Odor Insole Technology adds cushioning and arch support, while the insoles are partially made with Bloom foam, a cushy material infused with algae-based ingredients. The lightweight, flexible build is designed to move with your feet, which is especially helpful when you’re walking or standing for extended periods.

Shoppers praised the combination of comfort and style. One reviewer said wearing them feels like “walking on clouds,” sharing, “They are comfortable and supportive and the type of shoe that can be worn all day. They are a chic pair of ankle boots that can elevate any outfit!” 

Related: Macy’s ‘Sparkly’ Diamond Bolo Bracelet Is Perfect for Gifting and a Rare 75% Off Ahead of the Holidays

Styling them is easy, too. For a laid-back fall outfit, pair them with straight-leg jeans and a bomber jacket for apple picking or a tailgate. If you’re dressing for the office, try them with trousers and a trench coat. For dinner or an evening out, they can complement a flowing maxi dress and a faux-fur coat for a dressy but not overly formal vibe.

Another shopper highlighted the boots’ versatility, saying they’re “so comfortable for everyday wear,” adding, “They are incredibly easy to throw on with basically any outfit, whether I’m wearing casual jeans or dressing up a bit for work.”

Shop More Dr. Scholl’s Boots Deals

• Dr. Scholl’s Joplin Square Toe Short Booties, $66 (were $110) at Macy’s
• Dr. Scholl’s Northbound Chelsea Booties, From $50 (were $100) at Macy’s
• Dr. Scholl’s Bring Vibes Chelsea Short Boots, $63 (were $125) at Macy’s

If you’re after fall boots that balance everyday comfort with a stylish finish, the Dr. Scholl’s Reverie Block Heel Zip Short Boots are worth a look. Macy’s current 55% discount brings select styles down to $41, saving you nearly $50 on a wardrobe staple you’ll have plenty of opportunities to wear.

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Tortoiseshell is having a major revival. This timeless classic is making a huge comeback this year. Endlessly versatile, tortoiseshell appears on everything from shoes to eyeglasses, kitchen appliances and more. If you’re looking for a quick, easy way to bring the trend into your home, this new cordless glass lamp at Marshalls will do just that. It retails for under $25, which is such a steal. It looks way pricier than that, honestly!

Merkury’s Rechargeable Glass Tortoise Shade Table Lamp is perfect for embracing the tortoiseshell interior design trend this fall and winter. Standing 12 inches tall and measuring five inches in diameter, this table lamp is the perfect size for a side table, desk, nightstand, vanity, bathroom counter or kitchen counter. Honestly, you can put it wherever you want because it’s cordless. That means you have tons of flexibility in where you place it. No outlet required. It’s rechargeable via USB. (Don’t worry, a USB charging cable is included.)

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Merkury 12-Inch Rechargeable Glass Tortoise Shade Table Lamp, $24.99 at Marshalls

Marshalls

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This cordless lamp features the prettiest tortoiseshell tapered glass lampshade. The slightly waved edges add visual interest and charm, giving the piece a vintage-inspired silhouette. The metal lamp base has an antique gold finish that pairs perfectly with the lampshade. The base has fluted details that feel elegant and sophisticated.

Related: T.J. Maxx Is Selling the Glitziest Wide-Width Cowboy Boots That Are Made for Fun Nights on the Town

This LED-powered table lamp is controlled by touch on the base. It offers three light modes, warm white, neutral and cool white, so you can set the vibe you want.

Where to Buy

If you’re interested in buying this chic table lamp and embracing the popular tortoiseshell trend, visit Marshalls.com. It’s also available in select Marshalls stores. It retails for just $24.99, saving you $10 off its usual $35 retail price.

Related: Aldi’s Stand Mixer Is Giving Major KitchenAid Vibes for Less

Tom Cruise is joining a list of the greatest actors and filmmakers of all time.

The War of the Worlds star will receive the 52nd American Film Institute Life Achievement Award at AFI’s gala on April 24, 2027, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. Previous recipients include Hollywood giants Henry Fonda, Bette Davis, Kirk Douglas, Sidney Poitier, Alfred Hitchcock, and Steven Spielberg. In April, the institute honored Eddie Murphy at its 2026 celebration, which aired as a Netflix special. Over a dozen stars paid tribute to the famed comedian, including Stevie Wonder, Kevin Hart, and Chris Rock. 

“Tom Cruise is a global icon,” Kathleen Kennedy, the chair of AFI’s board of trustees, said in a statement. “As an actor and producer, he brings an extraordinary commitment to everything he does. What I especially admire is his deep belief in movies and their ability to bring people together. That passion has made him an extraordinary ambassador for American film around the world. It is AFI’s honor to present him with the 52nd AFI Life Achievement Award.”

During his 45-year career, Cruise starred in films that have collectively grossed nearly $13 billion worldwide, making him one of the highest-grossing actors in history. His credits include the Mission: Impossible and Top Gun franchises, as well as Jerry Maguire, Risky Business, Minority Report, A Few Good Men, Rain Man, Magnolia, The Firm, Born on the Fourth of July, The Color of Money, and many more.

He previously received career-recognition honors from the Cannes Film Festival, the American Cinema Awards, and the Producers Guild of America.

Cruise currently stars in the black comedy, Digger, which was pulled from over 2,500 theaters last weekend following poor reviews and earning only $11 million domestically in its first 10 days. Variety reported that the film could lose up to $245 million at the box office.

The iconic actor has several films in development, including a Days of Thunder sequel co-starring Anne Hathaway and The Gauntlet, featuring Scarlett Johansson.

Six years after her 2020 essay “J.K. Rowling Writes about Her Reasons for Speaking out on Sex and Gender Issues” sparked a major backlash, the Harry Potter author is at it again. J.K. Rowling published “An Update to My Essay of June 2020” on October 21, and she still has a lot to say about women’s rights and trans activism.

If you’re wondering whether the controversy has made Rowling rethink her opinions, she addresses the reason for the update in the first paragraph of her new essay. “My views haven’t changed (you can read the original essay here) but the landscape certainly has, and my own involvement in the issue has become practical as well as theoretical, so I thought it was time for an update.”

Rowling continues, explaining the importance of this subject in her eyes, “To me, all of this was consistent with my lifelong commitment to women’s and girls’ rights and opportunities, with a particular emphasis on those who’re vulnerable or disadvantaged in various ways.” 

She goes on to add, “What to me represents no change at all in my political and ideological outlook has, in recent years, seen me and women like me subject not only to criticism but also to death threats. This is because we oppose the current, dominant strain of trans activism, which holds that a man who declares himself a woman is, literally, a woman, and is therefore entitled to be treated as a woman in all contexts.”

Along with sharing her feelings on trans activism, Rowling also gives her take on women who espouse these beliefs (focusing on those who she says are in the “upper echelons”), writing, “Trans activism doesn’t hurt headline-hungry female politicians whose attitude to women’s rights is ‘whatever is good for me personally.’ On the contrary, trans activism has been good for these women,” and  “It’s fashionable, and keeps them popular with their progressive tribe, and costs them, personally, absolutely nothing.”

While she doesn’t agree with activists, she does add, “Are there vulnerable trans people? Without question.” Before you think she’s changed course mid-essay, Rowling continues, “But the current, dominant strain of trans activism bears no resemblance whatsoever to the great social justice movement of the twentieth century,” calling trans activism “the progressive cause du jour.” 

When Rowling shared the essay on X, her fans and critics flocked to the post. Some thanked her for standing up for women’s rights, but others had something very different to say. 

I wrote a new piece about women’s rights and whether or not I want trans people dead. (Spoiler: I don’t)👇https://t.co/BfxVLo0AD1

— J.K. Rowling (@jk_rowling) October 21, 2026

“You rightly ask who pays the price when privileged people impose their views. When you turn a trans person’s happiness into a punchline for millions, who pays the price? And how does that defend women’s rights?” replied one commenter, as another added “While you may not want trans women dead, you certainly are complicit in our erasure. Through actions and even verbiage.”

More than 40 years after they stopped making music together, Talking Heads are collaborating again. 

This time, David Byrne, Tina Weymouth, Chris Frantz and Jerry Harrison are revisiting their shared history in Talking Heads: New Feeling, an upcoming book filled with rare photos, handwritten lyrics and personal essays.

The band announced the project on Wednesday, October 21 with the book set to arrive May 18, 2027. In a video shared on publisher Abrams Books’ Instagram, all four musicians sat down together to discuss the project.

Weymouth acknowledged how unusual it was for the group to come together to “write and curate the comprehensive coffee-table book” about their past. Byrne also noted the timing of the release, which comes 50 years after the band’s debut album, Talking Heads: 77. 

“For this book, we pulled out handwritten lyrics, original album sketches, and private photos, some of which haven’t left our archive in over 40 years,” Harrison said.

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“Our book tells the story of three art students who met at the Rhode Island School of Design and found their way to C.B.G.B., the heart of New York’s punk and emerging new-wave scene in the 1970s,” Frantz added.

According to the publisher’s website, all four members contributed original essays. The book also features handwritten lyrics to songs including “Psycho Killer” and “Life During Wartime,” along with other material from the band’s archives.

The story runs through the 2023 re-release of Stop Making Sense, which marked a rare public reunion for the band members, who have not recorded music together in decades. 

Since then, the four members have continued to make occasional appearances together. They participated in events surrounding the film’s re-release in 2023 and 2024, then reunited again in September for an interview moderated by Este Haim to celebrate the launch of their SiriusXM channel, Talking Heads Radio.

The book is part of a broader run of projects highlighting the band’s legacy. Over the past year, Talking Heads released Tentative Decisions: Demos & Live, a collection of early recordings, and announced plans to re-release their 1979 album, Fear of Music.

Related: 1991 Rock Album Surpasses AC/DC on ‘Best-Selling Albums of All Time’ List

Bowen Yang is sharing his thoughts about the NBC sketch comedy show, Saturday Night Live, nearly a year after his departure.

In an October 2026 interview on The Run-Through with Vogue, Yang, who left SNL midway through its 51st season, shared that he keeps some distance from the show. However, he does watch some of its more popular sketches.

“I think it’s still helpful to have the distance. And I think I’ve calibrated it pretty nicely. I watch kind of what everyone else watches, if that makes sense. I feel like I’m at that casual stage,” said the Los Culturistas podcast host.

Yang also agreed that SNL, which is currently in its 52nd season, is “delightful.”

Bowen Yang Explained Why He Left ‘SNL’ When He Did in a July 2026 Interview

Yang explained why he decided to leave SNL when he did in a June 2026 episode of Variety’s Actors on Actors, alongside actress and comedian Rachel Sennott.

Yang, who joined the SNL cast during its 45th season in 2019, said he had wanted to leave the series after its 50th season.

“There was just a lot of uncertainty about what the show would look like after season 50. And I was like, I think the show is in a great place without me,” explained Yang during the interview.

He said, however, that the show’s creator and executive producer, Lorne Michaels, requested that he stay for some of season 51 to help the newer cast members get used to the sketch comedy show. Yang said he agreed to remain an SNL cast member a bit longer than he intended because he deeply respects Michaels.

“I felt like in my bones like someone who built this thing that like made so many things possible for me and for so many people being like, ‘I need you.’ I’m not going to turn that down. And so I said, ‘Yes,'” said Yang.