Parade

When it comes to legendary films, The Godfather often comes out at the top of everyone's rankings.

The 1972 film, which is based on Mario Puzo's epic novel, depicts the Italian-American Corleone family as they navigate organized crime. Starring Marlon Brando as Vito Corleone, the patriarch of the family, the film follows his sons as they attempt to follow in their father's footsteps.

In a new ranking of the "Best 300 Movies of All Time" on Rotten Tomatoes, The Godfather tops the list at number one. So why does the legendary film manage to score that coveted top slot?

"One of Hollywood's greatest critical and commercial successes, The Godfather gets everything right; not only did the movie transcend expectations, but it also established new benchmarks for American cinema," the description read. Here, here!

Photo by Archive Photos on Getty Images

Did The Cast Know The Godfather Would Be a Hit?

During the production of the first Godfather film, the actors knew the film was going to be a hit. That included Al Pacino, who played the youngest Corleone brother, Michael, James Caan, who played hothead Sonny, John Cazale, who played the bumbling Fredo, and the acclaimed actor Brando as Corleone.

“We all knew it — this was going to hit big. Those were good times,” Robert Duvall previously told PEOPLE, adding that there was no doubt that Brando’s performance as the leader of the family would receive endless acclaim: “He was our hero coming up, a king.”

Photo by CBS Photo Archive on Getty Images

Robert Duvall's Biggest Regret From The Godfather

While the character of Tom Hagen wasn’t an official member of the Corleone family, he was like an adopted son to Vito Corleone since childhood and served as the family’s lawyer and consigliere. Looking back on the role of Hagen in Francis Ford Coppola‘s first groundbreaking Godfather film, Duvall previously kept his sense of humor, telling PEOPLE back in 2003 that his one regret about the role was that “I just wish I had a better hairpiece.”

Duvall reprised his role as Hagen in the second Godfather film. However, he did not return for the 1990 film, The Godfather Part III, and it is briefly mentioned in the film that the character of Hagen has died.

For a quick refresher on the first of the Godfather films, check out the trailer below:

Related: Robert Duvall’s One Regret About ‘The Godfather’ Will Absolutely Make You Smile

The Coca-Cola Company is stepping into one of the biggest milestones in U.S. history. As the country prepares to mark its 250th anniversary this year, the company has announced a partnership with the America250 initiative, a year-long celebration to honor the history of the United States.

"Coca‑Cola is deeply woven into the fabric of America's history, heritage and culture," said Eric Kacker, vice president of sports & entertainment partnerships, Coca‑Cola North America, "Our partnership with the America250 Commission amplifies our company's mission to 'Refresh the World and Make A Difference,' and we are looking forward to co-creating a celebration that inspires and engages Americans in every state and every community across the country."

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

Rather than centering the effort on a single product or campaign, Coca-Cola is taking a broader approach, built around community-driven experiences designed to bring people together across the country.

A Nationwide Focus on Community and Connection

According to the company's announcement, the initiative will highlight local stories, cultural moments, and the communities that shape American identity. Coca-Cola plans to work with organizations nationwide to support events and programming tied to the 2026 anniversary.

The rollout is expected to include activations in cities and towns across the U.S., with an emphasis on local participation as part of the larger national celebration. The effort is designed to connect national themes with community-level experiences, allowing local organizations a role in how the milestone is recognized.

Related: Fans Say They 'Gotta Try' Mike's Hard Lemonade's 'Dirty' New Release

Commemorative Packaging and a National Campaign View this post on Instagram

At the center of the celebration is a new collection of limited-edition America250 packaging, including custom bottles and Coca-Cola's first-ever America250 collectible mini-cans. Each mini-can features a design tied to one of the 50 states, as well as Puerto Rico and the District of Columbia, highlighting local symbols—from Georgia's peach to cheese in Wisconsin.

Designed for collecting and sharing, the packaging also connects to interactive experiences. By scanning participating products, consumers can unlock prizes and rewards, including the chance to win a new Jeep and other travel-inspired experiences.

The campaign is anchored by a new creative platform, "Drink in America," which highlights everyday moments, local traditions, and shared experiences across the country.

"For nearly 140 years, Coca-Cola has been part of the American experience," said Stacy Jackson, vice president of Coca-Cola Trademark, North America. "From our collectible America250 mini-cans to our community outreach initiatives, our goal is to uplift Americans throughout every zip code and create optimism for the future."

What to Expect Next

In addition to the commemorative packaging, Coca-Cola is also tying the campaign to a nationwide sweepstakes and interactive experience.

By scanning participating America250 products, consumers can enter for a chance to win prizes, including an $80,000 vehicle credit toward a Jeep, a range of travel experiences, and 250th Anniversary collectibles. 

The promotion also includes an instant-win component and a larger "Collect the Country" experience, where users can scan products to unlock entries and rewards tied to different destinations and events. 

More details, including additional prizes and experiences, are expected to roll out as the campaign continues. As more details are released, the campaign will likely take shape through a combination of local programming and broader national participation opportunities.

Related: 5 Coca-Cola Commercials That Defined Generations (And the Secrets Behind Them)

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

Comfortable bedding means everything when it comes to getting a good night's sleep. If you tend to overheat or find yourself waking up uncomfortably warm in the middle of the night, a cooling comforter could be exactly what you need to snooze soundly. The Amélie Home Cooling Comforter is an exceptional choice that's priced just right.

The sale couldn't come at a better time, either. With the days growing longer and temperatures on the rise, spring will be here before you know it. When nights become balmier, this lighter weight option can help you drift off and actually sleep through the night. Normally $70, the twin size is currently just $26 for the heather ice blue color at Amazon. Other hues, including mint green, charcoal, denim blue, and cool grey start at only $40. Shoppers can also snag full, queen, and king sizes at varying discounts.

Amélie Home Cooling Comforter, From $26 (was $70) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at Amazon

What's especially great about this comforter is that it's reversible. One side is designed to absorb heat efficiently and reduce your body temperature by anywhere from 4 to 9 degrees Fahrenheit, with moisture-wicking properties that prevent night sweats and unexpected wakeups. The other side is softly textured and offers a slightly less cooling effect. That makes it an exceptional choice to use year-round, either on its own or layered over another piece.

Made from a combination of nylon and spandex, the lightweight comforter has a subtly lofty blend of Sorona fiber and microfiber filling. It's just substantial enough to keep you comfortable without weighing you down. The beautifully soft comforter is machine washable, designed to retain its substance and color even through repeated washes.

Related: Amazon’s ‘Super Comfy’ $30 Floral Sneakers Are the ‘Cutest’ Way to Step Into Spring

"This the coldest ‘cooling’ comforter I've ever had," one shopper raved. "When I climb into bed, it's frigid! It's so soft and comfortable." Another person said that the "quality is outstanding," adding that it's "dramatically improved my sleep."

The light feel of this comforter is sure to come in handy during the warmest nights of the year. Whether you're updating your bedding situation for the season or getting your guestroom set for spring or summer visitors, the Amélie Home Cooling Comforter will add the perfect finishing touch to your space. Don't miss it while it's available for this deeply discounted price.

Don’t miss future deals! Sign up for Parade Picks to receive our commerce team’s curated selection of discounts and sales, twice a week.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) is responsible for sending out Social Security payments to everyone who receives them each month. However, it looks like some folks are going to get a lot more than they bargained for in their next payment, thanks to the date that they actually filed to receive their first payments.

Curious to know if you're one of the millions of people who could be owed an bigger than normal check from Uncle Sam? Keep reading to find out whether you qualify for back pay and, if so, what you need to do to get your money.

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

The Social Security Administration May Owe You Money

According to Newsweek, millions of people may be owed money by the SSA. It sounds like the windfall is going to people who waited until well after their full retirement age (FRA) before starting benefits.

That means if you reached your FRA, but kept working for any period of time after that, you could be owed retroactive payments from the date you would've hit your FRA to the date you finally filed. For some, those payments could add up quite nicely, totaling thousands of dollars in retroactive payments.

FRA is 67 for those who were born in 1960 or after, so if you'll have 67 candles on your birthday cake this year, you'll want to pay especially close attention to this news.

Related: The 5 Best States For Social Security Tax Breaks In 2026

How to Receive Backed Social Security Payments

Think you may fall into this group? If so, you'll need to reach out to the SSA to ask the administration to backdate your start date to when you reached FRA, which will trigger the lump-sum payment for the months that you missed.

However, there is a catch. The SSA will only allow you to claim up to six months' worth of these missed benefits, so if you waited until more than six months after you reached your FRA to file, you will only be able to collect half a year's worth of payments.

Related: This Genius Simple Move Could Give You Bigger Social Security Checks—for Life

Also, you cannot apply for these payments after you reach the age of 70. That's because Newsweek says this is when the delayed retirement credits no longer accrue, which means you won't be able to take advantage of this payday.

Lastly, by using this option, you could lower the amount of benefits you receive in the future, which means that you may only want to consider opting for the lump-sum payment if you need to get your hands on some quick money up front, instead of getting bigger checks every month for the remainder of your retirement.

"The trade-off is a permanently lower monthly benefit going forward," Kevin Thompson, the CEO of 9i Capital Group and the host of the 9innings podcast, told Newsweek in an interview. "Many people overlook this option, but those facing large expenses may find it useful if they understand the long-term impact."

So, depending on your financial situation, this windfall could be a game-changer or something that you're better off leaving alone.

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

7 Little Johnstons star Liz Johnston was "arrested" at her own bachelorette party, as seen in an exclusive clip TLC shared with Parade.

In a sneak peek of the Tuesday, April 12 episode, Liz ended up in handcuffs thanks to a spicy surprise from her mom, Amber Johnston, and her sister, Emma Johnston.

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

At the beginning of the clip, Liz threw a pair of edible underwear at Emma at her bachelorette party. Their mother then picked it up, looked disgusted, and exclaimed, "Oh! It's, like, sugary..."

"That's a trip to the gynecologist right there," Liz's friend Carol Beasley declared.

During a sit-down with producers while sitting next to her fiancé (now husband) Brice Bolden, Liz boldly stated, "As much as we got a kick out of the edible underwear, I will not be wearing them."

"You never showed me that one," Brice pointed out.

"I threw it away," Liz explained. "There was no way for me to put them on. Literally, when I took them out of the package, they'd already broke." Still, Brice insisted that he would have liked to have seen them.

Back at the party, Liz held up a pair of thong underwear that said, "Grazing Station" on the front.

"Brice is just gonna get a kick out of these," Liz said. "I just should have put this in the book and been like, 'This is what all the girls brought me. Which one's your favorite? I'll wear it on the wedding day.'"

Suddenly, a man dressed as a police officer knocked on the door.

'7 Little Johnstons': Liz Johnston 'Arrested' at Her Bachelorette Party (Exclusive Clip) (1:19)

Related: 7 Little Johnstons Family Suffers Devastating Loss

Amber explained to producers, "So Liz might think these panties are the surprise. But, we've actually got something even spicier coming."

"Oh my god!" Liz exclaimed after the knock. She then hid her face in embarrassment, protesting, "Y'all did not." Meanwhile, someone at the bachelorette party joked, "Did you pay your car ticket?"

As the "officer" entered the Johnston home, he said, "How's it going? I'm here to arrest Elizabeth."

Giggles then erupted from the bachelorette party attendees, and someone said, "There she is, right there!" as the scene ended.

Tune in to the Tuesday, April 14 episode to find out how Liz's "arrest" played out!

Catch new episodes of 7 Little Johnstons on Tuesdays at 9 p.m. ET on TLC and streaming the next day on HBO Max.

Next: 7 Little Johnstons: Why Anna Is Missing From Season 17

Emmanuel Lewis won the hearts of America in the title role on Webster. But several decades later, the beloved sitcom star is still going strong!

Lewis, 55, kicked off his role on the hit series in 1983, playing a young boy who loses his parents in a car accident and is adopted by an NFL pro, played by Alex Karras, and a stylish socialite, played by Susan Clark. The series was a hit and a staple of the '80s for several seasons. While Lewis lives in Atlanta, he's rarely in the spotlight. However, a lucky friend ran into him on the street, providing us with an update on the actor's life.

"You never know who you'll run into in the streets of Atlanta. For those who watched or remember the show WEBSTER from the 1980s... Great running into @IAmEmmanuelLewis and his team! Many blessings and thank you for showing love to my mom and church family," the friend shared, posing for a photo alongside Lewis, who sports the same smile that he did back in his sitcom days.

View this post on Instagram

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

What Happened to Alex Karras and Susan Clark?

Karras and Clark, who played Katherine Calder-Young Papadopoulos and George Papadopoulos, the couple who take Webster in, ultimately became a couple in real life. They married in 1980 and stayed together until he died in 2012. Upon his death, Lewis shared a message of condolences with E! News.

"My heartfelt condolences goes out to Susan, Katie, George, Renny, Peter, and the entire Karras & Clark family," Lewis said.

An Incredible Music Video Cameo

Lewis has built a successful career for himself in adulthood. He is the President and Ambassador of the Radio, Music & Film Alliance of Georgia, which works "to create a platform that celebrates the profound impact of music and cinema on our lives." But we would surely be mistaken if we didn't mention his delightful cameo in Lil Jon & The East Side Boyz's music video for "I Don't Give A (feat. Mystikal & Krayzie Bone)." Catch him dancing it out at the 30-second mark!

Related: ‘Who’s the Boss’ Child Star Danny Pintauro, 50, Shares Selfie as Delivery Driver: ‘Doing What It Takes'

Before becoming a familiar face in some of Hollywood’s most iconic films, William Sadler quietly built a career that would eventually place him in one of the greatest movies of all time.

The actor, best known for his work on Die Hard 2, Bill & Ted's Bogus Journey, The Shawshank Redemption and more, turned 76 years old on Monday. Born and raised in Buffalo, New York, Sadler started his acting career playing small supporting characters in many TV shows and films, as well as performing in various Broadway productions in the 1980s.

Sadler is best known as a character actor, meaning they specialize in playing unusual, eccentric, or interesting characters in supporting roles, rather than leading ones. His best-known film roles mostly took place in the 1990s, thanks to Die Hard 2, Bill & Ted's Bogus Journey,The Green Mile and The Shawshank Redemption, the latter considered "one of the greatest movies of all time."

The 1994 drama follows Andy Dufresne (Tim Robbins), who is sentenced to two consecutive life terms in prison for the murders of his wife and her lover, and is sent to a tough prison. However, only Andy knows he didn't commit the crimes. While there, he forms a friendship with Red (Morgan Freeman), and experiences the brutality of prison life, adapts and helps the warden in the span of 19 years. Sadler played Heywood, a member of Red's gang of long-term convicts, a friend to Andy and a prominent inmate within the prison population.

Described by Harvey Brownstone in an interview from three weeks ago, Haywood is "fascinating, because he wasn't a bright guy," but Sadler "never turned him into a caricature." Brownstone asked the actor what his thought process was at the time.

"One of the things I decide about a character early on is how bright they are, and I sort of have this dial where you can turn it down and down," Sadler explained. "What happens is they see less and less and less of what's going on around them, and then they can only see what's right in front of them."

Throughout his career, Sadler has appeared in four films that were adapted from Stephen King books —The Shawshank Redemption, The Green Mile, The Mist and Salem's Lot — and got that connection through director Frank Darabont. Despite being in many King films, he has only met the author once at a film screening.

The Shawshank Redemption was nominated for multiple Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Freeman for Best Actor.

William Sadler and wife Marni Joan Bakst attend "The Shawshank Redemption" Beverly Hills Premiere on September 22, 1994 at the Academy Theatre in Beverly Hills, California.

Ron Galella, Ltd./Ron Galella Collection via Getty Images

According to The Movie DB, Sadler has been featured in over 100 movies and 57 TV shows. After The Shawshank Redemption came out, Sadler continued to appear in many films throughout the 1990s and 2000s, including Purple Heart, Last Day of Summer and more. He also portrayed President Matthew Ellis in various Marvel Cinematic Universe movies, including Iron Man 3 and Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. (2015–2016), and played Gino Fish in the Jesse Stone television films.

After a 50-year career, Sadler is still active in the industry. Recently, he appeared in The Rookie, The Good Fight, 'Salem's Lot, and A Stage of Twilight. He is also releasing music, with plans for a second album, William Sadler's Greatest Hits, Volume Three, a follow-up to his 2023 debut album, The Kitchen Tapes.

Related: Beloved '90s Actress and Award-Winning Film Star Turns 77

Travel has a way of exposing both the best and most stressful parts of human experience. For most people, an airport is a place of anticipation. For families traveling with children who are autistic, neurodivergent, or have other special needs, it can feel more like a maze of unpredictable sensory triggers, unclear routines, and emotional overwhelm.

That is where American Airlines is quietly reshaping what accessible travel can look like through a program called “It’s Cool to Fly American.” The program recently expanded at Charlotte Douglas International Airport, where families are invited to experience a full “dress rehearsal” of air travel without ever leaving the ground or boarding a real flight.

Explore the latest travel stories and updates by subscribing to our newsletter.

Inside the “It’s Cool to Fly American” Program: A Full Airport Dress Rehearsal

The core of the program is deceptively simple. Families walk through every step of air travel in a controlled, supportive environment. That includes check-in, security screening, waiting at the gate, boarding a stationary aircraft, and even taxiing along the runway to simulate movement and sound. According to WCNC Charlotte, the experience is designed to mirror a real departure day as closely as possible while removing the pressure of an actual flight .

This is not a staged demonstration behind glass. It is hands-on, sensory-rich, and intentionally immersive. The goal is repetition and familiarity, two things that can dramatically reduce anxiety for children who struggle with unpredictable environments.

Related: Search Intensifies for Missing American Airlines Flight Attendant Following 'Zombie Drug' Reports in Colombia

The airline itself describes the program as a way to help children “become more comfortable with the sensory experience of air travel” by experiencing it step-by-step in advance.

Why Airports Like Charlotte Douglas Matter So Much

The setting is not random and these events are often hosted at major hubs like Charlotte Douglas International Airport, one of the busiest airports in the United States. That scale matters because it reflects what families will actually encounter on real trips.

WCNC Charlotte reports that the Charlotte event brought together families who moved through each stage of the airport journey, from check-in to boarding simulations, in a realistic environment that included actual airport infrastructure.

Related: American Airlines Receives Clearance to Resume Nonstop Flights Between Miami and Venezuela

What stood out to me most is that the entire system is learning to adapt back. Many of the volunteers are airline employees, including pilots and flight attendants, who choose to participate to better understand the challenges passengers face.

Julie Rath, Senior Vice President of Airport Operations at American Airlines, states, “We know the challenges that children with autism may experience in our airports and during a flight. This program not only helps reduce anxiety and discover the fun and adventure of travel, but it also enlightens our team members to travelers with special needs, which, in turn, helps us promote a more inclusive and compassionate environment for all.”

The Bigger Impact: Confidence, Inclusion, and Real Travel Freedom

Since launching in 2014, the program has grown significantly across the airline’s network. American Airlines reports that thousands of families have participated in these mock airport experiences, with events held in dozens of cities over the years.

But numbers only tell part of the story. The real impact shows up in quieter ways, like when a child who walks confidently through a jet bridge for the first time, or a parent who finally feels comfortable booking a vacation instead of avoiding it.

In one report, airline staff described how families often arrive nervous but leave visibly more relaxed, with children better prepared for what real air travel will feel like. And for families who cannot access a program like this, the airline also offers accessibility support services and pre-travel assistance to help coordinate accommodations and reduce uncertainty before arrival. While not identical to a mock airport experience, these tools still aim to create more predictable travel pathways for passengers with disabilities.

Your next trip starts here—get curated travel stories when you sign up for our newsletter.

If You Don’t Have This Program Nearby: What Travelers Can Do Instead

Not every airport hosts a full rehearsal program like this, but that does not mean families are without options. Many airports and airlines offer accessibility planning tools, including social stories, terminal maps, and pre-visit coordination to help travelers understand what to expect.

Based on reporting from the American Airlines newsroom, the broader goal of initiatives like “It’s Cool to Fly American” is to reduce the mystery of air travel and make the process more understandable for families who experience sensory or developmental challenges.

From a practical standpoint, families often create their own “practice runs” by visiting airports ahead of time, watching walkthrough videos, or even rehearsing travel steps at home. These small acts of preparation can significantly reduce stress on travel day.

Final Descent: What This Program Really Changes

Programs like “It’s Cool to Fly American” do something that feels simple but is actually radical in aviation: they slow the experience down enough for people to learn it. Air travel is usually about speed, efficiency, and movement. This is about understanding before movement.

And for families who once saw airports as overwhelming or impossible, that shift can change everything. Because once the unknown becomes familiar, travel stops being something you fear and starts becoming something you can actually look forward to.

NBC’s The Fall and Rise of Reggie Dinkins features some of the funniest talents on television, with the cast led by Tracy Morgan and Daniel Radcliffe, and guest stars including Megan Thee Stallion and Craig Robinson.

Gardner, who was a main cast member on SNL for eight seasons, joined this list of guest stars on this season of the sitcom as Tisha Basmati, the passive-aggressive and very fashionable wife of Jerry Basmati (played by Robinson) who has a long-time rivalry with Reggie (played by Morgan). Gardner appeared as Tisha in Episode 5 of Season 1, and will return in Episode 9. 

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

“Everybody’s funny,” Gardner tells Parade about working on the set of Reggie Dinkins. “Everybody’s also giving each other gifts. That was one of the best parts about working with my onscreen husband, Craig Robinson. He was always giving me funny lines to say. I'm like, 'Wait, are you sure you don't want that one?' And he's like, 'No, you have it.'”

Gardner also said ad-libbing lines was "intimidating" because “when you're working on a show like that, Tina Fey, Tracy Morgan, Robert Carlock, the jokes are there, the jokes have been handled. The master class degree of jokes.”

Read below for our full interview with Gardner, where she discusses her character’s fashion and relationship with Erika Alexander’s character, Monica, her favorite SNL sketches, and future dream projects.

Related: ‘SNL’ Emmy Nominee Pays Heartfelt Tribute to Heidi Gardner Amid Her Exit

In Episode 5 we saw a glimpse between your character Tisha and Monica (played by Alexander). What can you tease for the upcoming episode?
It's a lot of the same passive aggressiveness from Tisha. And a lot of the realness from Monica or, you know, trying to put on a strong face with this little bit of a monster, of Tisha that she's facing. There's just a little bit more of that ‘couples’ rivalry’ in a way, which I think me and Jerry are taking it a lot more seriously. And they're [Reggie and Monica] just like, I can't believe these people are still in our lives. But the stakes do raise. And in a very interesting way.

Tisha’s fashion is just so good. Did you have any sort of say in what your character could wear?
Just the way that I said, the jokes are already on the page, like the wardrobe and the hair was there. I was like, "This is the woman of my dreams." That jacket [weighed] 200 pounds, that hair 300 pounds.

Heidi Gardner as Tisha Basmati in 'The Fall and Rise of Reggie Dinkins'

Scott Gries/NBC

You didn't share a scene with her, but Megan Thee Stallion was also in Episode 5 with you. I know you worked with her on SNL. Were you guys able to reconnect off-screen?
I did not see her on set, but every line she delivered killed me. I was like, “This is so perfect.” Her combination with Arthur is incredible.

And that was one of my favorite SNL episodes because she was so down for anything, and she just gave herself over to the show and that always made for the best shows where you're truly rooting for the hosts. And I think she even brought me a bag of Doritos or something, because she could tell that I was tired and hungry, and she gave me Cool Ranch Doritos, and I was like, “I love you, Megan Thee Stallion.”

Is there an SNL sketch that you look back at fondly?
The first one that I ever really got on the show was a Weekend Update, and it was "Every Boxer's Girlfriend From Every Movie About Boxing Ever." And that character, I think because it's the first one I ever did on the show, it just means so much to me. It was part of my audition. But the last time I did that character, I got to do it with Creed, with Michael B. Jordan. I got to give my character Angel a happy ending with Creed, and it just really feels full circle for me. 

Are there any current shows, either comedy or not, that you would just love to appear on?
Whatever Danny McBride chooses to do next, I would love, love, love to be a part of that.

Related: Tina Fey and Tracy Morgan Reunite in New Sitcom 'The Fall and Rise of Reggie Dinkins': What to Know

How do numerology, abundance, and Tarot intersect? There are many ways to approach the concept of manifesting wealth, but one of the simplest and most effective perspectives is to understand how you're naturally inclined to receive it. Manifesting wealth isn't solely about doing more, acquiring more, or striving harder. Instead, opportunities begin to unfold when you move in a direction that resonates with your energy, rather than trying to emulate someone else's journey.

Each birth date is associated with a Tarot card of abundance, which can help you uncover your unique path. The Tarot card linked to your birth date below reveals archetypal themes about how you navigate the world, what energizes you, and the types of abundance that tend to flow more easily when you are in alignment with your true self. As you start to recognize wealth in a way that feels intuitive and authentic, things will begin to click into place.

Each Birth Date's Tarot Card to Attract Abundance

Check for your birth date. Disregard birth months. Whether your tarot card feels instantly familiar or you’re still discovering its meaning, its archetypal energy provides insight into how abundance is already present within yourself or in your life. When you recognize what you have and learn how to work with it, attracting more becomes much easier. From that point, it’s simply about maintaining that connection to manifest plentitude.

✦ Learn more about your birth date numerology ✦

Born on the…

1st | 2nd | 3rd | 4th | 5th | 6th | 7th | 8th | 9th | 10th

11th |12th | 13th | 14th | 15th | 16th | 17th | 18th | 19th |20th

21st | 22nd |23rd | 24th | 25th | 26th | 27th | 28th | 29th | 30th | 31st

EXPLORE MORE: The 4 Most Powerful Tarot Cards for Manifesting Money and Success

Born on the 1st, 10th, 19th, or 28th — The Magician

As the ultimate manifestor, you create abundance by taking the first step, like The Magician. You possess the power to turn ideas into action. When you focus on your desire, the resources, tools, or connections you need suddenly come into reach. By following your curiosity—whether it's sending a cold email or sharing a new idea—you attract opportunities. These arise when you commit to saying yes to yourself. The more you trust your ability to take the initiative, the quicker things will come together in your favor.

MORE: The Most Powerful & Influential Birth Months, Ranked

Born on the 2nd, 11th, 20th, or 29th — The High Priestess

Your relationship with abundance is deeply intuitive. You have a knack for sensing what is right long before it becomes obvious to others, and this inner knowing is one of your greatest assets. When you listen to yourself—especially in moments when something feels subtle or difficult to explain—you often find yourself in the right place at the right time. There’s no need for you to chase or force outcomes; instead, a natural alignment occurs when you honor your inner voice. Like The High Priestess, abundance often comes to you through your feelings, not just what is visible. If it feels right, pursue it.

Born on the 3rd, 12th, 21st, or 30th — The Empress

You attract abundance by nurturing what matters most to you. Like The Empress, your warmth encourages growth—whether in ideas, relationships, projects, or your environment. When you focus your attention with heartfelt care, your object of desire tends to develop and flourish before your eyes. Aligned opportunities arise when you genuinely enjoy what you're creating and feel connected to your intuitive nature. Allow yourself the freedom to create without pressure. Your aura has a sensual richness that tends to multiply when you're in a state of unexpecting magnetism.

RELATE?: 4 Birth Months That Make The Best Writers

Born on the 4th, 13th, 22nd, or 31st — The Emperor

You manifest abundance by having a clear sense of direction and being disciplined like The Emperor. Your structured lens becomes a reliable foundation over time. When you set focused goals and follow through, your consistent effort gradually compounds into yielding lasting results. Your gift? Your ability to transform ideas into tangible and sustainable outcomes. Leadership often plays a significant role in your journey. When you step into your inner authority, life shifts. Trust your capacity to trailblaze and take calculated risks that pay off. Your abundance lies in this instinctive willpower.

Born on the 5th, 14th, or 23rd — The Hierophant

Abundance comes from sharing your knowledge. People look to you for guidance, similar to The Hierophant. Instead of trying to constantly reinvent the wheel, focus on what works for you. Trust your established strengths and the path you’ve created. Overthinking or trying to be a jack-of-all-trades can hinder your journey to attracting wealth. Mastering your interests will lead to greater success.

TRENDING: Which American Girl Doll Matches You, Based on Your Birth Month

Born on the 6th, 15th, or 24th — The Lovers

Wealth flows from your values and the choices you make based on them, much like The Lovers. You often have an uncanny instinct about what feels right for you, and when you act on that intuition, things start to align naturally. The decisions you make—especially regarding relationships, collaborations, and who you invest your energy with—directly affect the opportunities that arise next. When you choose what truly resonates in your heart, you begin to see that reflected in your opportunities, connections, and the overall direction of your life.

Born on the 7th, 16th, or 25th — The Chariot

By focusing and being determined, you unlock your wealth code. Your true power is in decisively choosing your direction and committing to it. Once you've made up your mind, your energy shifts, similar to The Chariot. Keep pursuing your passion to activate your abundance momentum. The more you trust yourself and take action, the more momentum things will gain. Avoid questioning your path after making your choice; trust the process. You'll be surprised by how quickly manifestations arrive.

Born on the 8th, 17th, or 26th — Strength

Your greatest blessings come from your ability to respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively. With calm confidence, you navigate tense moments without becoming distracted. This steadiness is a key strength that draws abundance to you. Your aura of authority draws in opportunities, as others sense that they can rely on you to get the job done and more. Like Strength, you're meant to foster an environment for sustainable growth through disciplined emotional control and intelligence.

FURTHER: The 4 Most Lucky Angel Numbers for Manifesting Money and Success

Born on the 9th, 18th, or 27th — The Hermit

You discover abundance through self-reflection and inner clarity, much like the key lessons of The Hermit. Instead of repeating old patterns, you take the experiences you've had and truly learn from them, carrying that awareness into new opportunities. By giving yourself the space to think, process, and reconnect with your own perspective, your next steps become much clearer. You may find that your most meaningful and abundant opportunities arise after moments of pause and introspection. There is a depth to your movements that naturally guides you toward what is right for you.

UP NEXT:

When Good Morning America made Yesteryear by Caro Claire Burke its top pick of April 2026, I was immediately intrigued. On the surface, this was a story that involved time travel. It all started with Natalie Heller Mills being this stuck-up and mean social media influencer in the present day, and when she woke up in the past, she had to figure out what was going on.

Well, it was far darker than originally expected — and in a good way! This is one of those novels that will make you put it down as you work out everything that is going on. I want to keep spoilers to an absolute minimum, as I do think you need to experience the twists for yourself, but all I’ll say is “What in the Ruby Franke did I read?”

'Yesteryear' Offers a Commentary on Social Media Influencers

At first, the novel starts as a satirical look at the tradwife movement and the way social media influencers position themselves. Here Natalie is pretending to be a traditional wife. She loves her six children, and she’s all about homesteading, raw milk, and fresh bread.

Yet, behind the curtain, that’s not the life she lives. She and her husband have workers who help with homeschooling and farming. They don’t grow organic vegetables at all, and Natalie isn’t quite a tradwife when she’s here being the breadwinner for her family through her online presence.

On top of that, she’s so awful to the people around her — and you have to question if she even likes her husband, let alone loves him — that I found myself not caring that she’d landed in 1805. I didn’t care that she had to go through these awful trials, whether it was all make-believe or she had somehow ended up in the past.

What I wanted to know was what was going on. Had she landed in the past? Was it some sort of reality TV set? Did someone hate her so much that they were willing to mess with her mind? Getting the answers to those questions kept me going, and I wasn’t prepared for the twists.

Penguin Random House

Twists That Absolutely Floored Me

There are two moments where twists led to be putting the book down and sitting with it. The first comes at around the halfway point, which hints at what is really going on. I started to work with the theory that she was in some sort of reality show without realizing because of this twist, but I wasn’t quite prepared for the actual ending.

With this halfway-point twist, I started to really think about the dialogue and the actions of Natalie’s 1805 children. Things didn’t quite add up for a family in 1805, but again, I wasn’t prepared for the second twist.

That came at the end, as we got all of the answers. There’s the end of a chapter that meant I immediately closed the book and just stared at it. Sure, the signs were there, but it didn’t mean that I was ready for a “Mama” that changed absolutely everything that my mind was theorizing.

It’s rare for a book to leave me guessing until the end. It’s rare that a twist will come that floors me, but Yesteryear managed it in spades. It creating a much darker story, and while I still felt no sympathy for Natalie at all, I got the sense that we were never meant to feel for her. There are others in the story that we’re supposed to feel sympathy for, and there’s a power in that narrative.

Scarily enough, the story feels more like it could be a true story. We’ve seen some of the tales of these tradwives who seem to have the happiest of families. Things are never quite what they appear online, and there’s certainly a cautionary tale within the story when it comes to following these influencers and believing everything they say.

Yesteryear is now available to purchase, and it was worth being the GMA pick of April 2026.

She’s married to one of the richest men in the world, and that makes Lauren Sanchez Bezos a celeb to watch. The former news anchor made headlines when she and Amazon founder, billionaire Jeff Bezos, tied the knot in June of 2025. But now she’s in the limelight for another reason. In a recent interview with The New York Times, Sanchez teased some pretty notable baby news—and the Internet went wild!

Okay, so let’s start with the big question. Is Lauren Sanchez pregnant? No, absolutely not. The 56-year-old is already the mom of three. Eldest son Nikko Gonzalez (with former NFL player Tony Gonzalez) is 25, middle son Evan Whitesell (with businessman Patrick Whitesell) is 19, and daughter Ella Whitesell is 18. And while the new Mrs. Bezos enjoys being a parent, it doesn’t look like she has real plans to expand her brood anytime soon.

How did the Sanchez-Bezos baby rumor get started? In the New York Times interview, Sanchez did speak about having children, saying, “I would have another one tomorrow.” When pressed on whether she and Bezos wanted more kiddos in their blended family (the Amazon entrepreneur has three sons and one daughter with ex-wife MacKenzie Scott), Sanchez replied, “I would have a baby tomorrow.” That sly statement became the soundbite of sorts for the interview. But alas, it’s not entirely true.

While Sanchez certainly did say, “I would have a baby tomorrow,” a spokeswoman later told the publication that Mrs. Bezos is not planning to get pregnant, nor is she already pregnant. While Sanchez won’t become a mommy again anytime in the near future, she is still committed to helping children. In addition to parenting her now-adult kids, Sanchez is the author of two children’s books. Seems like a fitting move, considering her husband did start his ultra-successful, world-dominating website as a simple, low-priced online book-seller marketplace. 

Sanchez also spoke to The New York Times about her recent release, ‘The Fly Who Flew Under the Sea,” noting that her husband did edit the book and suggest a cover art change: “Sometimes, I listen. Sometimes I don’t.” In this case, she did listen and made the changes. Inspired by her own reading issues, Sanchez’s latest book features a dyslexic fly. It follows her first foray into writing for kids, ‘The Fly Who Flew into Space.’ 

View this post on Instagram

In a recent Instagram post, the mom of three (that is three, and not expanding anytime soon) opened up about the obstacles she faced, “For a long time, I thought struggling meant I wasn’t “good” at reading. But what I was really learning was perseverance, imagination, and how to find my own way.” Well said!

If you’re planning your next wine-focused getaway, the Wine Travel Awards 2025–2026 shortlist offers a compelling place to start. These awards go beyond rating wines, highlighting entire regions based on experience, sustainability, culture, and innovation, giving travelers a more complete picture of where to go.

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

Related: 7 Under-the-Radar Napa Wineries Locals Swear By

How the Rankings Work

What sets the Wine Travel Awards apart is their two-step methodology. First, wine lovers and travelers from around the world vote for their favorite destinations. Then, industry experts evaluate the top nominees, factoring in everything from wine quality to tourism infrastructure and environmental practices.

The result? A list that reflects both real traveler enthusiasm and professional insight, making it especially useful when choosing your next destination.

The Top 5 Wine Regions to Explore

Here are five standout nominees that every wine lover should have on their radar:

Burgenland, Austria

Burgenland is one of Europe’s most exciting wine regions, known for its balance of tradition and innovation. Located near Lake Neusiedl, it has a unique microclimate that produces outstanding sweet wines alongside elegant reds like Blaufränkisch. The region is also a leader in sustainability, with eco-conscious vineyards and a thriving wine tourism scene that includes cycling routes and lakeside tastings.

What to try: Blaufränkisch or a noble rot sweet wine.

California Wines, USA

California Wine Country remains one of the most influential wine destinations in the world. From Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon to Sonoma County Pinot Noir, the diversity here is unmatched. Add in farm-to-table dining, scenic drives, and a strong sustainability movement, and it’s easy to see why California continues to rank highly.
What to try: Napa Cabernet Sauvignon or Sonoma Pinot Noir.

South Africa

The wine regions of South Africa offer a unique blend of dramatic landscapes and rich history. Areas like Stellenbosch and Hermanus provide everything from mountain vineyards to ocean views. Guided by sustainability principles like “≠hannuwa,” the region combines tradition with innovation, offering immersive experiences that go far beyond tastings.
What to try: Pinotage or Chenin Blanc.

Romania

Romania is quickly emerging as a must-visit destination for adventurous wine travelers. The “Wines of Romania” initiative highlights both indigenous grape varieties and modern winemaking talent. With a strong focus on storytelling and education, the country offers curated wine routes that connect visitors to its culture and history.
What to try: Fetească Neagră or Fetească Albă.

Valpolicella, Italy

Located near Verona, Valpolicella is synonymous with some of Italy’s most celebrated wines. Known for Amarone, Ripasso, and Recioto, this region blends centuries-old tradition with a well-developed tourism experience. Rolling hills, historic villages, and vineyard tours make it a dream destination for wine lovers.
What to try: Amarone della Valpolicella or Ripasso.

Related: Why Everyone is Suddenly Obsessed With This ‘Airstream’ Wine Region

A New Way to Experience Wine Travel

What makes these regions stand out isn’t just what’s in the glass but rather the full experience. Today’s wine travelers are looking for more than tastings. They want connection: to the land, to the people, and to the culture behind each bottle.

From cycling through Austrian vineyards to sipping wine against the backdrop of the Andes or the South African coast, these destinations offer something deeper than a typical vacation.

The Wine Travel Awards highlight this shift, emphasizing sustainability, storytelling, and immersive travel. Whether you’re drawn to the heritage of Valpolicella or the innovation of California Wine Country, one thing is clear: the best wine regions today are about far more than wine.

In a perfect world, we would all get eight blissful hours of sleep a night and wake up refreshed every morning. But, alas, it is not a perfect world. Real life has stress that can keep us up all night, snoring spouses and habits that are enjoyable in the moment, but can wreck sleep later (like that evening glass of wine that helps you wind down).

Fortunately, there’s caffeinated coffee and tea to help with powering through the morning (and let’s be real, a second or third cup for the afternoon). According to an article published in The Journal of Nutrition, a whopping 75% of adults in the U.S. drink coffee, with 49% reporting that they drink it every single day. 

But coffee isn’t the only energizing drink that keeps us going. Matcha has become increasingly popular in the last decade in the U.S., largely driven by Gen-Z, whose matcha consumption is 25% higher than the national average, according to a study conducted by tea brand Yu.

Related: Here's Exactly What Happens to Your Body When You Drink Matcha Every Day

Is matcha coffee? It’s not. Matcha is a powdered green tea that is originally from China and India, where it has been consumed for centuries. Unlike other types of tea, matcha is consumed in powdered form and contains all parts of the leaf. 

Curious as to how the caffeine and health benefits of matcha compare to black coffee? Here, registered dietitians offer a side-by-side comparison and share how to know which energizing drink is the best fit for you.

🩺SIGN UP for tips to stay healthy & fit with the top moves, clean eats, health trends & more delivered right to your inbox twice a week💊

Chakarin Wattanamongkol/Getty Images

Caffeine in Matcha vs. Coffee

Does matcha have a lot of caffeine? It’s a question many people wonder when deciding to give it a try, especially if they’re particularly sensitive to caffeine in coffee. 

“Because you’re consuming the entire leaf, matcha has more caffeine than a standard cup of steeped green tea but less than a cup of drip coffee,” explains Marisa Moore, RDN, a registered dietitian and cookbook author.

Ashley Kitchens, RD, a registered dietitian at Plant Centered Nutrition, explains that matcha typically has between 60 and 70 milligrams of caffeine, though she says the range can be as wide as between 30 and 140 milligrams, depending on how much matcha powder is used to prepare it. 

Related: Drinking Coffee Has One Very Surprising Health Benefit

“A typical eight-ounce cup of black coffee has between 80 and 120 milligrams of caffeine. In some cases, a cup of black coffee will have double the amount of caffeine compared to matcha,” Kitchens says, of how the caffeine in matcha compares to coffee.

Both registered dietitians also note that the caffeine in matcha vs. coffee feels different when it's consumed. “Black coffee gives you a faster, more intense caffeine spike and it may make you feel jittery. Matcha releases caffeine a little more slowly, so you’re less likely to have a caffeine crash or feel jittery,” Kitchens explains.

Moore echoes this, explaining that matcha contains the amino acid L-theanine. She explains that L-theanine promotes relaxation and is not found in coffee. She says that this is why matcha can lead to feeling alert (from the caffeine) but not jittery (because of the L-theanine). 

Related: Here's Exactly What Happens to Your Body When You Drink Coffee Every Day

Which Is Healthier, Matcha or Coffee?

Now that you know how the caffeine in matcha vs. coffee compares, you may be curious as to how they measure up nutritionally. Which drink is healthier? 

There are some nutritional perks that both matcha and black coffee have in common. “Matcha and black coffee are both low in calories, contain caffeine and are loaded with antioxidants. Both have been linked to improved alertness and have potential for improved insulin sensitivity,” Kitchens says.

That means that whether you pour yourself a cup of coffee or matcha, you’ll benefit from inflammation-lowering antioxidants. This supports the entire body, including the heart, brain and gut. 

Now let’s talk about how the nutritional benefits of matcha and coffee differ. As Moore previously explained, matcha contains the amino acid L-theanine, which is not present in coffee. Both dietitians say that this amino acid promotes focus and calmness. 

“Matcha is also packed with EGCG, a powerhouse catechin known for its anti-inflammatory properties,” Moore says. Kitchens adds that another antioxidant found in matcha that isn’t in coffee is chlorophyll, which is what gives matcha its green color.

While coffee doesn’t have L-theanine, EGCG or chlorophyll, it does contain its own nutrients that matcha can’t claim. “Coffee contains chlorogenic acid, a polyphenol linked to better blood sugar management. Coffee is also a source of potassium, delivering about 120 milligrams per cup, which is just under 3% of the daily value. That 120 milligrams isn’t a lot on its own, but the average American coffee drinker consumes three cups per day, so it can add up,” Moore tells Parade.

Is Matcha Better Than Coffee?

With all this in mind, how can you decide between matcha and coffee? Here’s the good news: There is no “bad” choice. Both are healthy ways to boost your energy.

“Taste and nutrition aside, whether you sip matcha or coffee might boil down to how caffeine sensitive you are. If you need to perk up fast, coffee might be ideal. If you’re sensitive to caffeine and want a more gentle, sustained alertness without a crash, matcha may be the best pick. Matcha might also be a little easier on the gut for those sensitive to coffee,” Moore says.

Kitchens agrees. “Black coffee and matcha are healthy choices. The ‘best’ choice is going to be the one you actually enjoy and that makes you feel good,” she says.

While matcha and coffee can both help boost energy, Moore emphasizes that if you consistently feel tired when you wake up, it’s important to address the root causes of your fatigue. “You can’t replace a healthy sleep, exercise and hydration routine with matcha or coffee,” she says.

As long as it’s not getting in the way of your sleep later, coffee and matcha can both be healthy ways to naturally boost your energy. With that in mind, go for the one that you like the taste of more and that makes you feel your best.

Up Next:

Related: ‘I’m an Endocrinologist, and This Is the #1 Coffee Order I Recommend for Stable Blood Sugar'

Sources

• Loftfield, E., Freedman, N. D., Dodd, K. W., et al. (2016). Coffee Drinking Is Widespread in the United States, but Usual Intake Varies by Key Demographic and Lifestyle Factors. The Journal of Nutrition. 146(9):1762-1768
• What America Drinks: From Gen Z to Boomers, Here’s What 50 States (+ D.C.) Reveal About the Rise of Matcha. Yu
• Jakubczyk, K., Szymczykowska, K., Kika, J., et al. (2024). Exploring the Influence of Origin, Harvest Time, and Cultivation Method on Antioxidant Capacity and Bioactive Compounds of Matcha Teas. Foods. 13(8):1270
• Marisa Moore, RDN, registered dietitian and cookbook author
• Ashley Kitchens, RD, registered dietitian at Plant Centered Nutrition
• Arulselvan, P., Tangestani Fard, M., Sean Tan, W., et al. (2016). Role of Antioxidants and Natural Products in Inflammation.Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity. doi: 10.1155/2016/5276130

History isn’t meant to be liked. It’s something that we can learn from, and that’s the case when it comes to one particular novel, that isn’t quite a novel. A 1947 release has earned its place on the “Best Woman-Authored Books,” and it’s something everyone should read at least once.

The Diary of a Young Girl, which is better known as The Diary of Anne Frank, continues to astound. It’s a real story, although it leaves you wondering whether it is something that should have been shared or not.

‘The Diary of a Young Girl’ Is a Novel That Never Was

Anne Frank didn’t write her diary with the intention of releasing it as a novel. This was her way to collect her feelings, as she dealt with the Nazi invasion and the need to hide. You’ve heard the story plenty of times. Anne, her family, and others were hidden away in an attic above her father’s business.

The entire story is told from Anne’s perspective. It’s a look into the life that she lived, and it’s important to remember that this isn’t necessarily a true account of the events. In fact, if you watched A Small Light then you’ll get to see the other side of the story — the one of the people who risked everything to hide Anne and her family.

So, while the diary reads as a novel, it was never meant to be one. It’s a story that you need to sit with for some time.

‘The Diary of Anne Frank’ Nearly Wasn’t Released

When Otto Frank survived the Holocaust and found out about his daughter’s diary, he wasn’t going to release it. Then when he did, he opted to keep out the parts that involved Anne’s most private parts, including discussions of same-sex attraction and menstruation.

In the end, those parts were put back in, but it does raise the question of whether this was the right thing to do. Anne likely never wanted her diary to be published to the world, despite her story being an important reminder of the horrors the Jewish people lived through. While it may be on the list of favorite books authored by women, it’s important to remember the heart of the story and the reason it was written in the first place.

The Rookiehas a familiar face working on the show, but fans won’t see her on air.

Hallmark fan favorite Ashley Williams has stepped behind the camera to direct a new episode of the hit ABC show.

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

Williams directed The Rookie Season 8 Episode 815 titled “Survive the Streets," airing on Monday, April 13.

Taking to Instagram, she gave fans a behind-the-scenes look at her favorite moments from directing The Rookie.

She couldn’t share too much about the moments as she didn’t want to give away any spoilers. However, that didn’t stop her from giving fans a sneak peek at Williams in her new role.

There are several shots of Williams directing The Rookie stars, including Melissa O'Neil (Lucy), Nathan Fillion (Nolan), Eric Winter (Bradford), and Lisseth Chavez (Celina), as well as some crew moments from her time as director.

In the caption, Williams listed out what each photo meant to her.

“1. Some of my favorite people @nathanfillion @ebwinter.  2. And also this queen who makes me giggle @missoneil. 3. my thinking face? @alexihawley @maddyc17. 4. There’s my thinking face again. Close your mouth, Ashley. 5. best cast ever. 6. picture car rig that truly blows my MIND. 7. It’s really a hilarious job. 8. my first time shooting on film 🤤. 9. THE interrogation room. 10. Queens behind the cam. 11. So. Many. Cameras. @kelly_berg626. 12. There she is. I mean there they both are. 13. Life of Brian/ @hicknurwitz. 14. I always have a question. 15. this contraption saved me nights of sleep I would have otherwise lost. 16. Giving props where props is due. 17. He is my sunshine. 18. Smart signage. 19. Oh captain my captain @irishjewell,” read her caption.

View this post on Instagram

This isn’t the first time that Williams has taken on the role of Director on The Rookie.

Related: ‘General Hospital’ Legend Sends Message to ‘Cherished’ Co-Stars After Major Milestone Celebration

In April 2025, Williams directed The Rookie Season 7, Episode 15, “A Deadly Secret.” The actress has been part of the Scripted Director program within Disney Entertainment Television for the past couple of years as she takes her career in a new direction.

Williams has added director to her talented resume, which also includes acting, writing, and producing. Despite working on her director skills, Williams isn’t leaving acting behind. She has a movie, Nothing But Love, coming out on Hallmark in 2026.

The Rookie airs Mondays at 10/9c on ABC.

Next: Ben Hollingsworth Reveals ‘The Thing’ He Loves Most About Hit Netflix Series ‘Virgin River’

In 2026, American Airlines began leaning into a trend that had been building just beneath the surface of aviation culture. According to reporting from Paddle Your Own Kanoo, the movement wasn’t a polished corporate rollout, and it came from within the cockpit. Pilots, inspired by what other airlines were doing, started carrying and handing out aircraft trading cards to passengers who showed curiosity.

Airline trading cards have never really been about marketing, and they have always been about connection. Now, with American joining the mix more visibly, something that once felt like an insider secret is becoming part of the modern travel experience.

Be the first to know about new travel trends, tips, and tales—subscribe now.

What Airline Trading Cards Actually Are and Where They Came From

Each card typically features a specific aircraft on the front and details on the back. That might include wingspan, cruising speed, range, or passenger capacity. They are standardized to the same size as traditional trading cards and are designed to be collected, traded, and sometimes even signed by pilots.

The concept itself dates back to the 1990s, when airlines like Northwest Airlines began experimenting with aircraft cards handed out by pilots. From there, the idea evolved organically. In the early 2000s, a United Airlines pilot named Denny Flanagan famously expanded the concept, printing cards for the aircraft he flew and eventually helping distribute more than a million across the airline.

But it was Delta Air Lines that turned the idea into something bigger. Beginning around 2003, Delta built a structured program around these cards, initially keeping them low-profile and pilot-exclusive. “This simple, yet impactful interaction… has created meaningful connections and memorable moments,” says Ryan Gumm, Senior Vice President of Flight Operations at Delta Air Lines.

Related: Travelers Are Livid After American Airlines Quietly Changes This Policy

The Airlines Already in the Game

Delta Air Lines is widely considered the gold standard. Its program spans decades, with multiple card series and millions of cards distributed. As reported by Delta News Hub, Delta produced over 5 million cards for a recent series alone to meet growing demand.

Alaska Airlines has also become a standout, especially with newer designs that include holographic and premium finishes aimed at collectors. According to the Autopian, United Airlines continues to distribute cards through pilots, maintaining a tradition that dates back more than two decades. Other carriers, including Southwest Airlines, JetBlue, Hawaiian Airlines, and WestJet, have also participated in various forms, as per the Autopian.

Fuel your wanderlust with our top travel stories—join our newsletter today.

Why Travelers Are Suddenly Paying Attention

A viral TikTok video in 2023 revealed Delta’s cards to millions of viewers, and demand surged almost overnight. Pilots reported a dramatic increase in passengers asking for them, turning a quiet tradition into a widely recognized phenomenon.

Modern travel can feel stripped down to efficiency, relying on boarding groups, app notifications, and tight connections. These cards interrupt that strict rhythm. They invite conversation and reward curiosity.

Even airlines acknowledge the emotional angle. A Delta spokesperson noted the cards are meant to “inspire a passion for aviation” and build a connection between passengers and flight crews.

@sarowarrr

Got my first trading card!!! Ask your pilot for one before or after your flight! #delta #tradingcards #collectibles

♬ original sound - Sarowar Who Actually Collects These Cards?

Yes, children are often the first to ask, especially when visiting the cockpit. But the collector base has expanded. Aviation enthusiasts, frequent flyers, and even casual travelers now treat these cards as part of the journey.

There is also a secondary market. Platforms like eBay are filled with listings, though most cards are relatively inexpensive. That reinforces an important point that the value is not primarily financial, and it is experiential. As QPMN puts it, the appeal lies in “the thrill of the hunt.”

Related: American Airlines Just Launched Its Shortest Flight in 6 Years

How to Start Collecting on Your Next Flight

Here are some tips if you want to start your collection:

• Ask politely. Timing matters. The best moment is usually during boarding or after landing, when pilots are visible and not actively managing the flight, according to QPMN.

• Not every crew will have cards. Not every airline participates. And that unpredictability is part of the appeal.

• Some travelers build entire routines around it. Asking on every flight. Trading duplicates online. Tracking rare aircraft cards is like collectors tracking limited-edition prints.

• Ask once. Smile. And if you get one, keep it somewhere you will find it again months later.

With spring activities in full swing, getting dinner on the table can feel even more hectic than usual. Longer days and packed schedules leave less time to prepare, which is why easy, flexible meal options matter this time of year.

Costco’s bakery has a new option that makes it easy to upgrade dinner without adding extra steps. It can be paired with the store’s lineup of hearty, ready-to-heat soups or built into something more filling; it’s an easy way to pull together a full meal or even cover a couple of dinners for the week.

You can see it in this April 9 Instagram from @costco_empties:

View this post on Instagram

The Sourdough Bread Bowls come in a 4-count, 1-pound, 15-ounce bag priced at $7.99.

While they’re a natural fit for soup, they can be used in a few different ways depending on what you already have at home. They work well filled with beef stew, pasta with sauce and meatballs, chili, or something like chicken Parmesan. They can also be used for breakfast with eggs, cheese, and bacon, or as a simple way to serve dips like buffalo chicken or spinach and cheese.

Related: This New Costco Deli Find Has Sushi Lovers Taking Notice

How Traditional Sourdough Bread Is Made

The comments section lit up with shoppers noting that Costco’s bread bowls aren’t classic sourdough.

Traditional sourdough is made from flour, water, and salt, along with a starter made from naturally occurring yeast and bacteria. It’s that fermented starter that gives sourdough its slightly tangy flavor and chewy texture, along with its signature crust and airy interior.

Classic sourdough bread.

The version sold at Costco is made on a much larger scale, so it includes additional ingredients to maintain consistency and speed up production. That’s typical for commercial bakery items, even when they’re labeled as sourdough.

At $7.99, they make it easy to turn whatever’s already in your fridge into dinner, especially on nights when time is tight, and you still want something that feels like a real meal.

The Western genre was shaped by a handful of defining hits—none more influential than a 1966 Italian film directed by Sergio Leone. StarringClint Eastwood in one of his most iconic roles, the film left a lasting mark on cinema and is widely regarded as one of the greatest ever made.

The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly was released just two days before Christmas in 1966, using a screenplay developed by Age & Scarpelli, Luciano Vincenzoni, and Leone. Eastwood played one of the leading roles as "the Good" or "Blondie" in the epic Western, with Lee Van Cleefas "the Bad" or "Angel Eyes.Eli Wallach rounded out the leading cast as "the Ugly" or Tuco Benedicto Pacífico Juan María Ramírez.

The classic Western takes place during the American Civil War, following three morally complex gunslingers on the hunt for buried gold. The "Good" is quiet, calculating and forms an uneasy partnership with "the ugly," a cunning outlaw. Their alliance is often tested by greed and betrayal. Meanwhile, "the Bad" is a cold-blooded mercenary who will stop at nothing to claim the fortune.

As the three men cross paths amid the chaos of war, shifting loyalties and dangerous encounters lead them to a final showdown in a remote cemetery. Blending tension, dark humor, and iconic style, the film builds toward a legendary standoff where only one can walk away with the gold.

Related: 1969 Chart-Topping Track Won an Oscar For ‘Best Original Song’ 56 Years Ago Today

The film received mixed reviews upon its release, with some audiences criticizing the use of violence and moral ambiguity in spaghetti Westerns versus the traditional Hollywood style. Leone's visual style was also a focal point, using shots that alternated between wide shots and extreme close-ups, which would later become a genre staple. The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly grossed $38 million at the box office, versus its $1.2 million budget, and has since become a cult classic and is ranked by Rotten Tomatoes as one of the "best movies of all time."

Many focus on the film's distinct use of violence and how each character was introduced based on their own morals. Leone once commented that his use of violence was a "tongue-in-cheek satire on run-of-the-mill westerns... The west was made by violent, uncomplicated men, and it is this strength and simplicity that I try to recapture in my pictures."

The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly has become a cult classic and pop culture staple that has been parodied for years in TV, films, video games, and even comic books. It's even inspired other hit films like Reservoir Dogs, and its theme song, "The Ecstasy of Gold", has been covered by hit bands like Metallica, the Ramones, and Motörhead.

Forget the plastic wristbands and delayed sets. While festival-goers are fighting for a patch of grass at Coachella, a corner of Colorado is currently outperforming every stage-lit backdrop on the planet. We are talking about main character energy, but from the dirt up.

While social media can be a beige blur of quiet luxury and muted aesthetics, nature is screaming in neon. We’re witnessing a vibe shift from the manicured, curated tones of the indoor girl to the outdoor main character meadow.

Data from Spinblitz just confirmed it: flower tourism has quietly become one of the most competitive sports in the country. And no, we aren’t talking about a polite walk through a botanical garden. This is about landscapes that look like a saturation slider gone rogue. Places where the color is so aggressive it confuses your phone’s auto-focus.

Crested Butte took the top spot with a 7.75/10 score. They call it the Wildflower Capital of Colorado, but that’s an understatement. It’s more like a mountain-scale takeover. We’re talking over 100 species: Lupines, Colorado blue columbines, and the bizarrely named elephant’s head, all shoving their way through the alpine meadows.

The Crested Butte Wildflower Festival hits its 40th anniversary in 2026. With 429k hashtags already logged, it’s the kind of place that makes high-end camera gear look like a toy because the raw color is doing all the heavy lifting.

If you think the desert is a latte-colored wasteland, you haven't seen Catalina State Park. It grabbed the #2 spot, but it actually holds the highest vibrancy score in the entire country at 7.76.

Thanks to the spring rains, the Sutherland Trail is a carpet of lush flowers. Imagine towering green saguaros surrounded by a carpet of golden brittlebush and California poppies. It’s a 5,200-acre giggle at the notion that deserts are dead, jagged stretches of land. The contrasting colors are so sharp it looks like a glitch in the matrix.

The 2026 Bloom Power Rankings

Destination

The Energy

The Proof

Crested Butte, CO

Alpine Frenzy

100+ species of mountain blooms.

Catalina State Park, AZ

Desert Neon

Highest pure color score in the US.

Ennis, TX

Sapphire Highways

40 miles of solid blue blankets.

Falling Waters, FL

The Secret Garden

Florida’s tallest waterfall + rare flora.

Willow Creek, CO

Fire & Gold

Red Indian paintbrush and sunflowers.

The bluebonnets of Ennis, Texas, don’t do subtlety. They have 40 miles of mapped trails south of Dallas that turn into a solid, vibrating blue. It’s the Bluebonnet City. With a 4.7 Google rating, the crowds aren’t wrong. It’s the closest thing you’ll get to driving through a cloud.

But if you want to dodge the crowds, head to Falling Waters State Park in Florida. Nestled in Chipley, it’s home to the state’s tallest waterfall and a forest floor covered in black-eyed Susans and Queen Anne’s lace. It’s the floral version of an underground club, better because your neighbors haven't posted it yet.

Rounding out the list is Willow Creek Trail in Colorado. Here, the Indian paintbrush grows so red it looks like it’s on fire against the green meadow.

The window on the bloom is tiny. These flowers won’t last for long. In a few weeks, the colors will shift from blinding to muted to gone. Get the car. Get the shot. Just don’t call it pretty — it’s much bolder than that.