Parade

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

Creating a cozy bedroom doesn't always require a complete makeover. Sometimes, one simple update can completely change the look and feel of your space. That's especially true when it comes to bedding. The right pattern can add warmth, personality and charm while making your bedroom feel more inviting.

IKEA shoppers looking for an affordable bedroom refresh may want to take a closer look at the retailer's newest bedding collection. The home furnishings giant recently added a duvet cover set that taps into one of the biggest decorating trends right now: farmhouse-inspired style.

🍳 SIGN UP to get delicious recipes, handy kitchen hacks & fun food news in our daily Pop Kitchen newsletter 🍳

The new EKTANDVINGE duvet cover and pillowcase set features a classic gingham check pattern in dark blue and white. The timeless design instantly brings a relaxed, lived-in feel to a bedroom while still looking polished. Best of all, the Full/Queen size costs just $44.99, making it an easy and budget-friendly update.

EKTANDVINGE Duvet Cover and Pillowcases, $44.99 at IKEA

IKEA

Shop It!

Gingham has long been a favorite in farmhouse and cottage-inspired homes. The simple check pattern creates a sense of comfort and nostalgia that many people associate with country living. At the same time, it feels clean and versatile enough to work in modern spaces.

Related: Target's 100% Cotton Floral Reversible Quilt Creates the Most Calming Ambiance in Any Bedroom

That's one reason gingham bedding remains popular year after year. It can serve as a neutral backdrop or become the focal point of a room, depending on how you style it. Pairing it with crisp white sheets creates a fresh, classic look, while adding textured throw blankets or decorative pillows can make the space feel even cozier.

IKEA makes the duvet cover and matching pillowcase from 100 percent organic cotton, which keeps them extra soft and eco-friendly. It's a win-win! The natural fiber also helps absorb moisture, which can contribute to a more comfortable night's sleep year-round.

In addition to the blue-and-white version, IKEA offers the bedding set in pale gray-green and white, as well as in anthracite and white.

For shoppers who love farmhouse decor, cottagecore style or want a bedding set that won't go out of fashion, this new IKEA find checks a lot of boxes. Between the classic gingham pattern, soft organic cotton fabric and under-$50 price tag, it's an affordable way to bring a little extra charm into the bedroom.

Related: This Cute New Bedding Set From IKEA Is Inspired by Traditional Swedish Folklore

Morgan Wallen fans hoping to catch him in Pittsburgh this weekend will have to wait a little longer.

The country superstar announced that his second scheduled performance at Acrisure Stadium has officially been canceled due to severe weather concerns, explaining that the decision was ultimately out of his hands.

"After talking with local officials and my team, there is no choice but to cancel tonight's show due to severe adverse weather conditions expected throughout the rest of the day and night," Wallen, 33, shared in a statement posted to Instagram on Saturday, June 6. "Safety for my fans and crew is the highest priority. Refunds available at point of purchase."

A screenshot of Morgan Wallen's Instagram on June 6.

The canceled performance was set to be Wallen's second consecutive night at the Pittsburgh venue following Friday's show, which featured a surprise appearance from hometown hero Kurt Angle.

The weather-related announcement also comes just days after Wallen made headlines for an entirely different kind of concert disruption.

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

During a recent stop in Denver, the singer appeared to grow frustrated while performing his hit "Sand In My Boots" after experiencing technical difficulties with his piano. Fan-recorded videos showed Wallen struggling to hear the instrument before ultimately pushing it over onstage. Despite the unexpected mishap, he finished the remainder of the song a cappella, earning praise from many fans online for his raw vocals.

Wallen later addressed the viral moment on TikTok. As he approached a piano in the video, he told viewers, "Hey, I just want you guys to know that right now, this piano is working." The camera then panned to the instrument before returning to the singer, who added, "And that's what they told me last night." He joked in the caption, "Can’t you tell I’m so distraught over my piano.”

Related: Country Star Angrily Flips Piano On Stage After Technical Issue

Melanie Moreno is getting strong reactions from the Love Island USA audience in the first week. Beatriz Hatz accused her of being "a little excessive" with the new bombshell. Melanie, 24, disagreed and told her to relax. This is happening before the first dumping of the season.

Spoilers for Love Island USA Season 8 episode 4!

Beatriz Confronts Melanie on 'Love Island USA' Beatriz Hatz on 'Love Island USA' Season 8

Ben Symons/Peacock

Melanie coupled up with Sincere Rhea on the first night. But she was upset he pulled Kayda Bosse for a chat in episode 3. They didn't talk about it until the evening. Melanie took a shot at Kayda in episode 4's challenge by sliming her. Kayda got her revenge later.

Melanie was also inspired to explore because of Sincere's chat with Kayda. Corbin Mims entered the villa, and she immediately pulled him aside for a chat while he was talking to all of the girls. Bea wasn't happy about it and confronted her. Fans are torn in their reactions to the situation in the comments of an Instagram clip of the interaction.

Related: Sharon Stone Addresses Criticism of ‘Euphoria’ and That Ending

"Melanie losing me [for real] and I like how Bea let her know," a top comment read.

"Love the way Bea put Melanie in check because if someone did that with Sincere she would be mad," another fan agreed.

"Why did Melanie go to Kayda when she was spiraling and needed someone to talk to……now girl," a most-like comment reads. "I was second hand embarrassed."

Other fans support her actions. "I’m honestly on Melanie’s side, Beatriz did too much just say you wanted to speak to him first, one viewer claimed. "If anything Kenzie should be upset."

"I love Melanie! She doing her," one comment reads. "This ain’t friend island."

"Melanie is so Philly, I don’t think people are ready for it," one person claimed. "If you’re from Philly then you know Bea’s tone was a little froggy."

The episode ended with Melanie storming off after Beatriz confronted her. Aniya Harvey asked her to join them back on the couch to finish the conversation. She refused and asked for more time.

Related: ‘Love Island USA’ Producer Reveals How Far Their Matchmaking Can Go

Sunday night on May 7, will be the first recoupling of the season, and one person will be dumped. There is currently one more man therefore one should go. Sean Reifel is currently not in a couple and is therefore in danger of going home.

Knots Landing star Donna Mills is proud to be 85 and fabulous.

The blonde beauty, 85, who started her career in Clint Eastwood’s 1971 film Play Misty for Me, became a star in Knots, the primetime soap opera that was a spinoff of the beloved TV drama Dallas. Mills played the role of chaotic Abby Cunningham, known for causing trouble all over Los Angeles. The show ran from 1979 to 1993, but Mills departed in 1989 and went on to several popular TV movies.

These days, Mills is a social media star who has no apologies for aging on her own terms. In a new Instagram reel, the beauty sports a crop top and a chic silver hairstyle. Seeing as critics love to weigh in on what she wears as she ages, the TV icon loves shocking people with her endless style and ageless looks.

"This was supposed to be a joke…now I’m taking selfies! #silverhairdontcare#silverfox#hairplay#lilliancutler," Mills captioned her reel, which showed her sporting a cropped sweater, jeans, and a departure from her typical blonde hair.

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 🎬 

Fighting Back Against Social Media Shamers

In the present day, Mills is thriving and looks better than ever. But as anyone knows, that certainly won’t stop the commenters of the Internet from weighing in on how one looks. In a hilarious clapback, Mills fired back when a commenter said that “you wear too much makeup for your age.” In a video, a chic Mills sports a black leather jacket and blonde tousled hair as she says, “I guess I didn’t get the memo” and reverts to historic garb.

“Did you want me to look like this?” she said, wearing a high-neck blouse, glasses, and gray hair. “I said what I said 🤍 #style#aging#makeup#clapback#armchairwarrior,” Mills captioned the video.

View this post on Instagram When Did Donna Mills Turn 85?

Mills turned 85 back in December and made it clear that, in addition to getting more stunning with age, she’s also gotten wiser. Mills shared a stunning photo of herself on Instagram with some touching words of wisdom in the caption. With her blonde, wavy hair shining, the TV star made it clear that she still knows how to command a camera.

“Looking back… So many little moments that shaped me. Unexpected joys. Beautiful surprises. Lessons I didn’t know I needed. 🌿 I’m still here. 🔥 I’m still going. And I’m excited for everything ahead. 🎂 Feeling grateful today,” she captioned the post. “#AnotherYearAroundTheSun#StillGrowing#grateful.”

View this post on Instagram

Related: ‘Charlie’s Angels’ Legends Jaclyn Smith, 80, and Kate Jackson, 77, Are Ageless Beauties on the Red Carpet

Deep Purple has been full of amazing headlines in recent weeks. Following their forthcoming album announcement, Splat!, to their joint North American tour with Kansas and Jefferson Starship this August, the Rock & Roll Hall of Famers are still riffing “Smoke on the Water” more than five decades later. 

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

Now, Deep Purple have revealed another surprise. The pioneers of heavy metal and modern hard rock just announced a slick new music video for “Diablo,” the second single from Splat! featuring a surprising guest appearance from country superstar Keith Urban.

https://youtube.com/shorts/Kk_VDFCcTm4?si=A1_4pdSuhTtrXMaB

According toLouder’s Classic Rock, the new song “opens the door to one of Deep Purple’s surreal new story worlds: the most dangerous place on earth, where a heroine crosses a river, jumps into a fighting pit, celebrates with a bucket of wine, falls into the glitter pool and somehow makes it back home with a tale to tell.” As one does.

The biggest headline, however, may be Urban’s involvement. The Australian country star contributed guitar work to the new “Diablo” visuals, creating an unlikely collaboration between one of classic rocks’ most influential bands and one of modern country’s biggest names. Urban’s recent projects have ranged from a yacht-rock cover album to a performance with ZZ Top’s Billy F. Gibbons.

Related: Country Superstar Shocks Fans With Yacht Rock Covers Album Amid Major Life Change

Deep Purple frontman Ian Gillan adds that the YOLO tune is all about taking chances and embracing adventure. 

“Just for once in your life, do something exciting, step out of the mould, take that curious bend in the road instead of sticking to the highway and do something that will, for the rest of your life, either guide or warn you,” he explained. 

The “Diablo” video news follows the release of the band’s first Splat! single, “Arrogant Boy,” which arrived May 12. 

Fans can tune in Sunday at 8 p.m. CT/2 p.m. ET, when bassist Roger Glover will join the YouTube premiere of the new Deep Purple music video for a live chat. 

Produced by frequent Deep Purple collaborator Bob Ezrin, Splat! will be released July 3 via earMUSIC in an array of formats, from black or double purple vinyl, to limited-edition box set and CD. 

Related: 1977 Rock Ballad, Finally Released in Its Full Version, Becomes a Gateway Classic

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

As a proud member of Team No Big Light, ambient lighting is the best kind of lighting. Lamps that deliver soft, diffused light make any space feel inviting and cozy, making it easy to relax and unwind. Cordless lamps are a great way to set the mood, and this vintage-style option available on Kohl's website does just the trick. Even better, it is on sale right now.

Adesso's Stevie LED Cordless Table Lamp adds beautiful ambient lighting to any space. Featuring a slim base with an antique brass finish and a wicker shade with chic scalloped edges, this lamp has a vintage-inspired aesthetic but brings modern convenience with its cordless design. It is powered by a rechargeable LED, so you can bring it wherever you need to set the mood. It is also safe to use outdoors, adding to its versatility and ease of use.

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

Adesso Stevie LED Cordless Table Lamp, $64.99 (originally $99.99) at Kohl's

Kohl's

Shop It!

This lamp has a three-level touch dimmer switch, giving you control over the amount of light you want at any given time. Whether you need the lamp brighter for reading or dimmer for soft ambient lighting while you watch a movie, this cordless lamp has your back.

Related: Kohl's Is Selling a 12-Piece Toile Porcelain Dinnerware Set in the Prettiest Vintage Style

Kohl's shoppers love this vintage-style cordless lamp, giving it an average rating of 4.5 stars on Kohls.com, with 100 percent of reviewers saying they would recommend it to others. Fans of the lamp rate it highly for its quality, easy assembly, value and style. Some Kohl's shoppers loved it so much, they even purchased multiple.

"The faux wicker shade is realistic. I purchased two for my buffet table. It has three light levels of brightness. The brightest is enough to read with. The other two levels of brightness are perfect for ambient lighting. The brass base is a warm toned down gold color," said one fan in a five-star review on kohls.com.

"Nice looking," said another shopper in a four-star review on kohls.com. "Very happy with my lamp purchase."

You can order this vintage-inspired cordless lamp on kohls.com. It is currently on sale for $64.99, marked down from $99.99.

Related: Kohl's Bright and Cheery 6-Piece Pyrex Food Storage Set Is Perfect for Leftovers

Jason Sudeikis andOlivia Wilde may have ended their romantic relationship years ago, but they're proving that co-parenting remains a priority.

The former couple was spotted together at their daughter Daisy'sgraduation ceremony in Los Angeles on Thursday, June 4, marking a rare public reunion for the exes. Photos obtained by Page Six showed the pair smiling and chatting alongside their 9-year-old daughter, who wore a festive graduation lei as she walked between her parents. The pair's son, Otis, 12, did not appear to be present.

The sighting comes just days after the Ted Lasso star opened up about his current relationship status and the realities of dating after a very public breakup. 

During an appearance on the Friends Keep Secrets podcast, Sudeikis revealed that he finds today's dating landscape to be "daunting and overwhelming." He explained that he's reached a point in life where "it feels good or fulfilling to date numerous people all at once."

While discussing relationships, the actor said fatherhood has definitely shaped his priorities. When it comes to balancing romance and family life, his children come first. “Anybody I’m dating…they’re never number one on the call sheet, as the showbiz saying would go,” Sudeikis said. “The kids are…Even probably more so than myself,” he continued.

READ MORE: Jennifer Aniston Makes Surprising Comment About Ex Brad Pitt

Sudeikis and Wilde began dating in 2011 after meeting at a Saturday Night Live afterparty. The pair got engaged in 2013 and welcomed Otis in 2014 and Daisy in 2016 before ending their relationship in 2020.

After their split, Wilde famously dated Harry Stylesafter the pair met on the set of Don't Worry Darling, and was more recently linked to art dealer Caspar Jopling, the ex-husband of singer Ellie Goulding. Sudeikis, meanwhile, briefly dated model and Ted Lasso writer Keeley Hazell before his talk on the Friends Keep Secrets podcast, revealing that he's currently single.

Related: Madonna Doesn't Want to See This at Her Future Concerts, Issues Stern Warning to Fans

You don't have to be a kid to enjoy a movie about superheroes, magical creatures or monsters! Lucky for us, a bunch of animated and kid flicks that will also entertain the inner child of any adult are coming out in 2026, some after many delays over the last couple of years. That means you and your loved ones can look forward to smelling the delicious scent of buttery popcorn and sitting down in a plush theater chair to enjoy a new family favorite on the big screen. Or, if you'd rather sit on the couch in your jammie-jams, there are plenty of upcoming movies scheduled to drop on Netflix, Prime, Disney+ and other streaming services, so you can watch from the comfort of your own home.

Mark your calendars for these new kids and family movies!

Related: The 26 Best Family and Kids Movies on Netflix Right Now

New Kids and Family Movies Coming Out in 2026June 2026Masters of the Universe

Release Date: June 5, 2026
Where to Watch: in theaters

He-Man and Skeletor are back in this sword-and-sorcery epic based on the Saturday morning TV cartoon from the 1980s and its related media and toy franchise. The star-studded cast includes Nicholas Galitzine (Prince Adam/He-Man), Jared Leto (Skeletor), Morena Baccarin, Kristen Wiig, Alison Brie and Idris Elba.

Toy Story 5

Release Date: June 19, 2026
Where to Watch: in theaters

The fifth installment (not counting the spinoffs, prequels, TV series, etc.) in the 30-year-old franchise finds the toy gang going up against a new rival: technology, in the form of an electronic tablet called Lilypad. The usual voices are here (Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Joan Cusack, with newcomer Anna Faris providing the voice of Lilypad and Ernie Hudson taking over Combat Carl to replace the late Carl Weathers), and we can expect the same animation style and heartfelt story that characterizes most Toy Story films. If the toy ain't broke, don't fix it.

Related: We Ranked the 53 Best Animated Movies of All Time

July 2026Minions & Monsters

Release Date: July 1, 2026
Where to Watch: in theaters

Director Pierre Coffin and co-writer Brian Lynch return for the third Minions movie, which sees the yellow critters trying to find monsters to star in their creature feature.

Moana

Release Date: July 10, 2026
Where to Watch: in theaters

The live-action remake of the beloved Disney animated film is, um, another live-action remake of a beloved Disney animated film. One unique aspect is the fact that Dwayne Johnson is likely the first live-action actor to play the role of a character he voiced in the original animated version.

August 2026Paw Patrol: The Dino Movie

Release Date: Aug. 14, 2026
Where to Watch: in theaters

The sequel to Paw Patrol: The Mighty Movie sees Ryder and his canine rescue crew attempting to save an island of dinosaurs from a volcanic eruption. The movie's all-star voice cast features Carter Young, Mckenna Grace, Terry Crews, Meredith MacNeill, Ron Pardo, Jennifer Hudson, Hayden Chemberlen, Fortune Feimster, Jameela Jamil, Rain Janjua, Bill Nye, Paris Hilton, Lucien Duncan-Reid, William Desrosiers, Nylan Parthipan, Snoop Dogg and Henry Bolan.

The Magic Faraway Tree

Release Date: Aug. 21, 2026
Where to Watch: in theaters

After Polly Thompson quits her job designing smart fridges, she and her husband Tim decide to move their family of three kids out to the countryside. There, the children discover a magical tree that transports them to enchanted realms. Adapted from Enid Blyton's book series of the same name, the film stars Andrew Garfield, Claire Foy, Nonso Anozie, Nicola Coughlan, Jessica Gunning, Jennifer Saunders and Rebecca Ferguson, with a script by Paddington 2 writer Simon Farnaby.

Coyote vs. Acme

Release Date: Aug. 28, 2026
Where to Watch: in theaters

A fun film concept that struggled to get made for years, Coyote vs. Acme is a hybrid live-action and animated film (think: Space Jam) about Wile E. Coyote hiring an attorney (Will Forte) and suing Acme for all the faulty products he's purchased trying to catch the Road Runner. Other Looney Tunes characters that appear include Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Elmer Fudd, Sylvester the Cat, Tweety Bird, Yosemite Sam, and others. A court case may be too sophisticated for the youngest viewers, but it is being marketed as a kids' movie.

September 2026Tom and Jerry: Forbidden Compass

Release Date: Sept. 9, 2026
Where to Watch: in theaters

The famous cat and mouse rivals accidentally travel through time via a magical compass and must work together to get back home in this animated film from China. Clearly made for a Chinese audience, Tom and Jerry: Forbidden Compass is getting torn apart by critics, with Mark Kermodecalling it "insufferably boring, but so loud insufferably boring, so frenetic insufferably boring, so overcooked, so screamingly, shoutingly awful, I just wanted to pull my eyes out of their sockets and pull my ears off the side of my head so I could stop having to put up with it."

Forgotten Island

Release Date: Sept. 25, 2026
Where to Watch: in theaters

Forgotten Island is directed by Joel Crawford (Trolls Holiday, Puss in Boots: The Last Wish, Kung Fu Panda 4, The Wild Robot), with characters voiced by Lea Salonga, Dave Franco, Jenny Slate, Manny Jacinto and H.E.R.One source describes the plot as following best friends Jo and Raissa, who "find themselves stranded on the fantastic world of the forgotten island of Nakali...their only way home might come at the expense of a lifetime of memories and emotions."

October 2026The Legend of Aang: The Last Airbender

Release Date: Oct. 9, 2026
Where to Watch: Paramount+

Avatar: The Last Airbender continues in a film following the main characters (voiced by Dave Bautista, Eric Nam, Steven Yeun and others) as they become young adults.

Wildwood

Release Date: Oct. 23, 2026
Where to Watch: in theaters

In this stop-motion adventure, Prue McKeel and her friend are drawn into a hidden magical forest to save her infant brother from crows, which are led by a mysterious woman named Alexandra. Here, they encounter talking animals, bandits and powerful figures with dark intentions. The film is based on Colin Meloy and Carson Ellis’s 2011 novel and is directed by Travis Knight. It features an all-star voice cast, including Peyton Elizabeth Lee, Jacob Tremblay, Carey Mulligan, Mahershala Ali, Awkwafina, Angela Bassett, Jake Johnson, Charlie Day, Amandla Stenberg, Jemaine Clement, Maya Erskine, Tantoo Cardinal, Tom Waits and Richard E. Grant.

November 2026The Cat in the Hat

Release Date: Nov. 6, 2026
Where to Watch: in theaters

The third major adaptation of the 1957 Dr. Seuss book (after the 1971 animated TV special and the 2003 live-action film starring Mike Myers) is an animated movie with Bill Hader in the title role, with other voices provided by Quinta Brunson, Paula Pell, Giancarlo Esposito,America Ferrera, Bowen Yang and Tituss Burgess. In this version, the Cat helps a pair of siblings adjust to a new town.

Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol

Release Date: Nov. 13, 2026
Where to Watch: in theaters

Johnny Depp has been cast as Scrooge and Andrea Riseborough has also been cast. A Christmas Carol is a familiar story for most people, with many versions made for film and TV over the decades (some scarier than others); with its ghosts and other darker elements, parents should look into this version of the story and decide if it's right for younger or more sensitive kids.

Way of the Warrior Kid

Release Date: Nov. 20, 2026
Where to Watch: Apple TV

A bullied 11-year-old (Jude Hill) learns to defend himself and adopt a warrior mindset when he spends the summer with his Navy SEAL uncle (Chris Pratt). Way of the Warrior Kid is rated PG-13 and is based on the 2017 children's novel of the same name by retired Navy SEAL Jocko Willink.

Hexed

Release Date: Nov. 25, 2026
Where to Watch: in theaters

Not much has been revealed about this film yet. We do know that the director is Josie Trinidad (co-director of Zootopia 2), and a few other details were revealed at Disney's Destination D23 in August 2025. Cartoon Brew described the film's premise as centering on "an awkward teenage boy whose unusual traits turn out to be something far more powerful: real magical abilities. When his Type-A mom becomes entangled in the discovery, their lives and a hidden world of magic are flipped upside down."

December 2026The Angry Birds Movie 3

Release Date: Dec. 23, 2026
Where to Watch: in theaters

The third film of the Angry Birds Movie franchise features Jason Sudeikis, Josh Gad, Rachel Bloom, Danny McBride, Anthony Padilla and Ian Hecox reprising their roles from the previous installments. Plot details have yet to be revealed.

Jumanji: Open World

Release Date: Dec. 25, 2026
Where to Watch: in theaters

Dwayne Johnson, Jack Black, Kevin Hart and Karen Gillan are returning for the fifth and final installment in the Jumanji film series. It features a star-studded cast of returning players from the franchise. Little is known about the plot right now.

Nutmeg & Mistletoe

Release date: Dec. 25, 2026
Where to watch: in theaters

In this Christmas comedy directed by Peter Herro, a young girl named Alma writes a heartfelt letter to Santa Claus after she notices her town has lost its holiday spirit. In response, Santa sends two misfit elves, Nutmeg and Mistletoe, to help the townpeople rediscover the true meaning of Christmas. Nutmeg & Mistletoe stars Madeleine Arthur, Sarah Jeffery, Arianna Rivas, Maia Kealoha and Nia Vardalos.

Kids and Family Released Earlier in 2026January 2026Charlie the Wonderdog

Owen Wilson is the voice of Charlie in this animated feature about a family dog who discovers he has superpowers. Charlie must protect his family—and the world—from an alien DNA-enhanced cat who wants to conquer humanity.

Tafiti: Across the Desert

This animation adventure from Germany, based on a beloved children's book series, follows meerkat Tafiti and his bush pig buddy Bristles as they search for a magical flower in the African desert that will cure Tafiti's dad, who's been bitten by a snake.

February 2026Time Hoppers: The Silk Road

Time Hoppers is a media property based on an RPG and also an educational TV series, and The Silk Road is their feature-length film. Varietysays that it's the "first-ever Muslim animation property to receive a nationwide theatrical release."

Goat

This animated sports comedy takes place in an all-animal world and follows a small goat named Will (the voice of Caleb McLaughlin of Stranger Things) who gets a chance to join the pro "roarball" league (this world's version of basketball) and prove that "smalls can ball."

Kangaroo Kids

This family adventure film follows a 13-year-old named Johnny who befriends a famous kangaroo at her mother’s zoo. When a gang of thieves attempts to steal the animal, Johnny rallies her friends to thwart their plans. The film is directed by Fairai Branscombe Richmond and stars Josefina Baeza, Robbie Allen, Emily Ashby and Kathleen Kinmont.

I Can Only Imagine 2

Following the success of his song “I Can Only Imagine,” MercyMe’s Bart Millard faces a personal crisis at home, as his fame and fortune threaten the family he has built. The movie serves as a direct sequel to 2018’s I Can Only Imagine and stars John Michael Finley, Milo Ventimiglia, Sophie Skelton, Arielle Kebbel, Sammy Dell, Trace Adkins and Dennis Quaid. It is co-directed by Andrew Erwin and Brent McCorkle.

K-Pops!

Musician Anderson .Paak co-wrote, directed and stars in this movie about an American musician who moves to South Korea to compete in a TV music contest and boost his career. He reconnects with his long-lost son, who's poised to have his own successful music career, and the two must navigate a parent-child relationship that could also become competitive.

March 2026Hoppers

Release Date: March 6, 2026
Where to Watch: in theaters

In this Disney-Pixar animated film with an environmental message, young animal lover Mabel uses new technology to "hop" her mind into a robot beaver in order to battle a construction company planning to destroy a local animal habitat.

Youngblood

Release Date: March 6, 2026
Where to Watch: in theaters

A remake of the 1986 film starring Rob Lowe and Patrick Swayze, both films follow an aspiring young hockey player trying to make it in the NHL. But where the '80s version has Lowe as a white farmboy from rural upstate New York pursuing his dream, the 2026 release features a Black Canadian player (Ashton James) trying for the big leagues. The film is rated PG-13, so it may not be suitable for the youngest viewers, but inspirational sports films like this usually resonate with most kids.

The Pout-Pout Fish

Release Date: March 20, 2026
Where to Watch: in theaters

In this American-Australian co-production, Nick Offerman is the voice of the grumpy Mr. Fish. The animated feature is based on the 2008 children's book from the Pout-Pout series by author Deborah Diesen.

April 2026The Super Mario Galaxy Movie

Release Date: April 1, 2026
Where to Watch: in theaters

There isn’t much information about the story of The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, so it’s hard to say what the plot will look like. Cast member Keegan-Michael Keytold Men’s Journal in October 2024 that this next film in the series is “a little broader in scope, and where it takes place is very intriguing lore and the Mario world…They’re going to find some really fantastic Easter eggs and it’s been very exciting so far.” This could mean the new movie takes place someplace other than the Mushroom Kingdom. With decades of game lore and settings to explore, the possibilities are pretty much endless.

May 2026Swapped

Release date: May 1, 2026
Where to Watch: Netflix and select theaters

When small woodland critter Ollie (Michael B. Jordan) and majestic bird Javan (Juno Temple) magically swap bodies during a scuffle, they must put their rivalry aside and team up on a grand adventure. Tangled director Nathan Greno helms this animated comedy.

The Sheep Detectives

Release Date: May 8, 2026
Where to Watch: in theaters

A film featuring anthropomorphic, mystery-solving sheep, and it's live action?! Yes, The Sheep Detectives (based on the 2005 book Three Bags Full by Leonie Swann) will have actual actors playing real roles, although we assume many of them will be voicing the sheep. And what a cast: Hugh Jackman, Emma Thompson, Bryan Cranston, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Chris O'Dowd, Regina Hall, Patrick Stewart. Parents should be aware that the original novel was about the sheep sleuths solving a murder, so the material may not be appropriate for young or sensitive kids.

The Mandalorian and Grogu

Release Date: May 22, 2026
Where to Watch: in theaters

This Disney-Star Wars film picks up the story of the popular Disney+ series The Mandalorian, where Din Djarin (a.k.a. "The Mandalorian," played by Pedro Pascal) is the guardian of the mysterious child Grogu (a.k.a. "Baby Yoda").

The Breadwinner

Release Date: May 29, 2026
Where to Watch: in theaters

White-hot comedian Nate Bargatze plays an incompetent dad left alone with his kids while his wife (Mandy Moore) is out of town. Comparisons to Mr. Mom are valid, but why not revisit one of the funniest family comedies of the '80s? Other comedic actors that add to the fun are Will Forte and Kumail Nanjiani (along with the cast of Shark Tank!), and parents probably don't have to worry about anything too risqué—Bargatze has made it clear he wants his projects to be family-friendly.

Propeller One-Way Night Coach

Release Date: May 29, 2026
Where to Watch: Apple TV

John Travolta's directorial debut is based on his own 1997 children's novel and follows an actress mother and her young aviation enthusiast son as they take a cross-country flight to Hollywood. Exciting moments and fascinating passengers turn a simple trip into a coming-of-age journey.

Related: The 16 Best, Funniest Live-Action Comedies on Disney Plus Right Now

Believe it or not, some of the most addictive television out there isn't in English at all. Korean and Chinese dramas have built devoted, binge-until-3-a.m. fanbases around the world—and the best part is you can stream them in the U.S. right now. So grab some dim sum or gimbap and get ready to fall down a very satisfying rabbit hole.

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

The Best K-Dramas/C-Dramas To Watch Now1. 'Pursuit of Jade' (2025) Pursuit of Jade

Starring Zhang Linghe, Tian Xiwei
Available on Netflix, iQIYi

Based on a popular webtoon, Pursuit of Jade follows Fan Changyu (Tian), a butcher's daughter after she finds an injured nobleman (Zhang) in a snowstorm. As she nurses him back to health, both of them find themselves in dire straits. He must keep his identity hidden until he weeds out the killer, while she must marry before her gambling good-for-nothing uncle lays claim to her family home. The scenario leads to a marriage of convenience that later evolves into genuine love. Part of what I liked about this series is that the female lead character is no shrinking violet waiting to be rescued. She makes her own path, is the breadwinner in the marriage (before discovering her husband is actually a nobleman and a warrior) and even knows how to fight the bad guys better than the bad guys do! The series is both funny and romantic with a palpable chemistry between the two leads.

Fun Fact: Despite her small stature, Tian is noted for her physical strength. Even at 5'6" and around 100 lbs., it's Tian who actually carried the 6'3", 160 lb. Zhang on her back in the opening scenes where her character discovers him in the snow. Most viewers thought it done through wires and harnesses or a stunt double, but Zhang said in an interview that he never would have believed a small woman like her would be able to carry him, much less run with him like she does in those scenes!

2. 'Perfect Crown' (2026) IU and Byeon Woo-seok

Disney+

Starring IU, Byeon Woo-seok
Available on Hulu in the US, Disney+ internationally

Set in an alternate reality where the Korean monarchy is still ruling in modern day, Perfect Crown follows the people’s favorite royal, Grand Prince I-AN (Byeon Woo-seok), as he becomes embroiled in a power struggle with other members of the royal family. With pressure on the prince to wed, he strikes up a marriage of convenience with Huiju (IU), the heir to a Korean conglomerate, but as the pair works together to advance their own ends, emotions begin to flare and things don’t go quite as smoothly as planned. The two actors have a fun, playful chemistry and even in behind-the-scenes footage from the series, they are always laughing between takes and just enjoying themselves, Queen Dowager be damned!

Related: Hallmark Should Take Note — Hulu’s ‘Perfect Crown’ Is the Sweet Rom-Com Series Viewers Crave

3. 'King the Land' (2023)

Starring Lim Yoona, Lee Jun-ho
Available on Netflix

King the Land follows the story of Gu Won (Lee), heir apparent to The King Group, a luxury hotel chain, but before his succession can be made official, he's thrown into an inheritance war and must deal with the power struggles within the family. As he works out of one hotel, he keeps running up against Cheon Sa-rang (Lim), who always has a smile on her face for the guests and staff of the hotel, except for Gu Won. The series contains possibly one of the hottest kiss scenes in the history of K-Drama.

4. 'A Princess Royal' (2024)

Starring Zhang Linghe, Zhao Jinmai
Available on Netflix, Viki, Youku

In this bittersweet romance, a princess and her husband's long and loveless marriage ends in betrayal, but when they both wake up back when they were 18, they realize they have a chance to start life over and make different choices. When the two realize they both have memories of their previous existence, they decide to work together to figure out why they fell apart.

Zhang is the "it" boy in Chinese entertainment these days. His catwalk during a New Year's Eve gala this year nearly broke the internet, amassing over 40 million views within a 24-hour period. The man literally walked down a runway.

5. 'Would You Marry Me?' (2025)

Starring Choi Woo-shik, Jung So-min
Available on Hulu in the US, Disney+ internationally

When a woman learns she has won a lottery for a new home for newlyweds, she discovers she can't claim the prize without her new husband. Given that she broke off her engagement after she caught her fiance cheating, she enters into a flash marriage to claim the prize, pretending to be a couple to fool the inspector.

6. 'Boyfriend on Demand' (2026) Seo In-guk and Jisoo

Netflix

Starring Jisoo, Seo In-guk
Available on Netflix

Blackpink's Jisoo stars as Seo Mi-rae, an exhausted webtoon producer who escapes reality through a subscription-based virtual dating simulation program, where she gets to experience the dates of her dreams. Doom at Your Service'sSeo In-guk plays her co-worker Goo Young-il.

7. 'In a Time Called You' (2023) Ahn Hyo-seop

Netflix

Starring Ahn Hyo-seop, Jeon Yeo-been, and Kang Hoon
Available on Netflix

This mysterious romance centers around Jun-hee (Jeon), who is grappling with the loss of her boyfriend a year earlier. Miraculously transported back to 1998, she encounters Si-heon (Ahn), a man bearing an uncanny resemblance to her late love, and his friend In-gyu (Kang). Based on the Taiwanese series, Someday or One Day.

8. 'Love to Hate You' (2023) Teo Yoo, Kim Ok-vin

Netflix

Starring Teo Yoo, Kim Ok-vin, Kim Ji-hoon, Go Won-hee
Available on Netflix

She's a lawyer who's adept at martial arts and has an overhyped sense of social justice, especially when it comes to women who have been wronged by their boyfriend/husband/ex. He's the hottest actor around but has an aversion to touching women, and practically has a panic attack when he's near one which makes filming love scenes difficult. When the two are paired up, everything is bound to go wrong, right?

9. 'A Year-End Medley' (2021)

Starring Han Ji-min, Lee Dong-wook, Kang Ha-neul, Im Yoona, Won Jin-ah, Lee Hye-young, Jung Jin-young, Lee Jin-wook, Lee Joon-ok
Available on Disney+

This standalone movie was so popular it was broken up into segments for series television. It is Korea's answer to Love Actually. The stories take place leading up to New Year's Eve and all within a hotel (or involve employees or guests of the hotel). It's a cute rom-com with the multiple storylines including an OCD hotel owner and the free-spirited maid he becomes fascinated with, the suicidal guest and the hotel staff that go out of their way to ensure he has a positive stay, and the handsome dinner patron who has gone on dozens of blind dates in the hotel restaurant with no success.

10. 'When Life Gives You Tangerines' (2025) IU and Park Bo-gum

Netflix

Starring IU, Park Bo-gum, Kim Seon-ho, Park Hae-joon, Moon So-ri
Available on Netflix

When Life Gives You Tangerines follows Ae-sun (IU/Moon So-ri), a girl yearning for a poet's life away from her fisherwoman's destiny and Gwan-sik (Park Bo-gum/Park Hae-joon), the boy who cherishes her throughout their lifetime. Through their seemingly ordinary lives, an extraordinary love story unfolds.

11. 'Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha' (2021)

Starring Kim Seon-ho, Shin Min-a, Lee Sang-yi, Gong Min-jeung
Available on Netflix

When Yoon Hye-jin (Shin Min-a), a Seoul dentist, finds herself at a crossroads in life, she decides to throw caution to the wind and moves to a quiet seaside town where she discovers a quirky group of townspeople and an even quirkier yet handsome "Chief" Hong (Seon-ho).

12. 'Our Universe' (2026) Bae In-hyuk, Roh Jeong-eui

Starring Bae In-hyuk, Roh Jeong-eui
Available on Viki

When tragedy strikes leaving a young baby without parents, the parents' in-laws must step up to care for the child. While the sister is more than willing to step up for her own sister, she is overwhelmed. The child's uncle has harbored issues with his brother for years and is reluctant to help but eventually acquiesces. The two move in together to care for their nephew and all three go through growing pains.

13. 'Love in the Clouds' (2025)

Starring Hou Minghao, Lu Yuxiao
Available on Netflix, Viki, Youku

My people love their historical/fantasy dramas. There are probably more costumes and props in Chinese entertainment studios for such series than there are for modern day series. In Love in the Clouds, Ming Yi (Lu) is a ruthless war goddess, who assumes a new identity after being poisoned. Under disguise, she gets close to thief Ji Bozai (Hou) and what starts off as a game of deceit turns into a deep romance.

14. 'Destined with You' (2023)

Starring Jo Bo-ah, Rowoon
Available on Netflix

In this fantasy/romance series, Lee Hong-jo (Jo Bo-ah), a city civil servant, finds herself in possession of an ancient spellbook. Ace lawyer Jang Shin-yu (Rowoon) only wants one spell from the book. When she casts a love spell meant for another but the spell lands on Shin-yu, is his attraction to her due to the spell or something else?

15. 'Dynamite Kiss' (2025)

Starring Jang Ki-yong, Ahn Eun-jin
Available on Netflix

A single woman disguises herself as a married mom to land a job at a baby products company. She gets the job, only to discover that her new boss is the guy she nearly had a fling with a while back. She must keep up appearances to keep her job so she lets her boss believe she is happily married while both fight their ongoing attraction for one another.

16. 'The Manipulated' (2025)

Starring Ji Chang-wook, Jo Yoon-su
Available on Hulu

This action thriller series follows an ordinary man (Ji), whose life is turned upside down after he is wrongly accused of a major crime and is sent to prison. When he discovers he was framed, he sets out on a path of revenge.

17. 'My Demon' (2023)

Starring Song Kang, Kim You-jung
Available on Netflix

He's a 200-year-old demon. She's a modern day chaebol heiress. When the two meet—literally by accident—he is stripped of his powers only to find she now holds the source to his demonic magic. To stay close to her, he becomes her bodyguard. While the two are in forced proximity to one another, they find they become more and more dependent on the other for more than just power and protection. The series quickly became a hit—not only for its creativity, but also for the chemistry between the two leads.

18. 'Sold Out on You' (2026) Sold Out on You is now streaming on Netflix.

Netflix

Starring Ahn Hyo-seop, Chae Won-bin
Available on Netflix

Sold Out on You is a dreamy rom-com filled with constant bickering between Matthew Lee (Ahn), a farmer juggling multiple jobs and Dam Ye-jin (Chae), a home shopping show host plagued by severe insomnia. Their lives collide day and night in unexpected and hilarious ways.

Related: He Voiced Jinu in ‘KPop Demon Hunters’—Now He’s Headlining Netflix’s Newest Rom-Com, ‘Sold Out On You’

19. 'Lovely Runner' (2024)

Starring Byeon Woo-seok, Kim Hye-yoon, Song Geon-hee
Available on Netflix

Ryu Sun-jae (Byeon) is a celebrity who seems to have it all—fame, fortune, talent, and good looks. But beneath the surface lies a man who is exhausted and depressed. An admirer of Ryu's named Im Sol (Kim) finds solace in his music after an accident derailed her own dreams. When news breaks of Ryu's tragic death, Sol finds herself transported back 15 years prior when they were both high school students. Seeing this as a chance to change both of their futures, Sol takes it upon herself to rewrite destiny for both of them while challenging their pasts.

20. 'The First Frost' (2025)

Starring Zhang Rounan, Bai Jingting
Available on Netflix

Two former high school classmates accidentally run into each other at a bar six years later, both pretending not to recognize the other because of their awkward parting. Due to circumstances, the two end up sharing an apartment and are compelled to face their past when Yifan (Zhang)—triggered by stress and trauma—begins to sleepwalk again and finds herself in her roommate's room one night.

21. 'Nevertheless' (2021)

Starring Song Kang, Han So-hee
Available on Netflix

Park Jae-eon (Song) loves to flirt but has no interest in a serious relationship. Yoo Na-bi (Han) wants to date again, but has a distrust in men after her last breakup. The two art majors are inexplicably drawn to one another. Their complicated relationship tests both their resolves.

22. 'Bon Appetit, Your Majesty' (2025)

Starring Lim Yoona, Lee Chae-min
Available on Netflix

In this tasty time-travel romance series, Yeon Ji-yeong (Lim), is a modern-day Michelin-level chef. Retrieving a historical text for her scholar-father, she discovers the book is a Joseon-era cookbook. When she unexpectedly travels back in time to that same era, she finds herself in the court of the King. First, labeled a ghost/monster, she eventually impresses the King with her cooking and he makes her his Chief Cook. Along the way, she also begins to earn the King's trust and affection. Will she be able to get back to her time? Will she even want to when the opportunity presents itself?

23. 'Spring Fever' (2026)

Starring Ahn Bo-hyun, Lee Joo-bin
Available on Prime Video

When a targeted scandal forces Yoon Bom (Lee) to leave her life in Seoul for a teaching job in a small village, she meets a local man with a sincere personality who helps her trust and love again.

24. 'My Piggy Boss' (2024) Bubble Zhu, Lu Dongxu

Starring: Bubble Zhu, Lu Dongxu
Available on: Viki

My Piggy Boss is just so darn cute! In this adorable rom-com, an assistant at a Christmas lights factory discovers her boss turns into a pig at night. No, not a male chauvinist pig, but a literal pig. It seems his family was cursed by an evil alien pig (yes, that's right) after a butcher in his family slaughtered too many pigs. If the young CEO doesn't receive his true love's kiss by his 27th birthday, he will become a pig forever!

Despite his abrasive demeanor, the assistant is determined to help him find his true love—even if that person might be her. There are some laugh out loud moments, like when she's bathing the pig before she knows its her boss—or how her roommate offers the pig some pork fried rice. And of course, the instances where you think you're seeing the pig, but it's actually the actor standing in for it.

Check out this fun clip where Yang Xiaozhu (Bubble Zhu) discovers the pig for the first time and takes him home. She goes to bed with the pig, but wakes next to her naked boss (Lu) instead.

25. 'Business Proposal' (2022)

Starring Ahn Hyo-seop, Kim Sejeong, Kim Min-kyu, Seol In-ah
Available on Netflix

Business Proposal was one of Netflix's most beloved rom-com K-dramas, topping the platform's global non-English chart for weeks in 2022. The story follows Shin Ha-ri (Kim), who takes the place of her rich friend, Jin Young-Seo (Seol), on various arranged blind dates with over-the-top personalities to ward off potential suitors. On one particular date, Ha-ri is dismayed to find her date is Kang Tae-moo (Ahn), the CEO of the company where she works. Tae-moo has also been set up on a series of blind dates by his grandfather. Things get even more complicated when Young-Seo bumps into the man of her dreams at a convenience store only to later discover he is Tae-moo's right hand man, Cha Sung-hoon.

26. 'Cinderella and the Four Knights' (2016)

Starring Park So-dam, Jung Il-woo, Ahn Jae-hyun, Lee Jung-shin, Choi Min
Available on Viki

This one might be a decade old, but it's still a great series. It follows the story of a young woman who is hired by a grandfather to watch over his three adult grandsons as he determines who is worthy of being his successor. She is given additional tasks to accomplish for extra rewards and the only rule he has—she can't fall in love with any of them. Park So-dam (Parasite) stars as the Cinderella figure in the series.

27. 'What's Wrong with Secretary Kim?' (2018)

Park Min-young, Park Seo-joon
Available on Hulu, Viki

Lee Young-joon (Park Seo-joon) is young, handsome, rich, and successful. He likes his life in perfect order and that order is thrown into chaos when his longtime secretary announces her resignation. Refusing to let her go, Lee will do anything to change her mind and make her stay.

Related: I Had a Problem With Hallmark’s Mahjong Movie—Until I Understood This

28. 'Can This Love Be Translated?' (2026) All 12 episodes of Can This Love Be Translated are now streaming on Netflix.

Netflix

Starring Go Youn-jung, Kim Seon-ho
Available on Netflix

Can This Love Be Translated? is an unpredictable romantic comedy that unfolds as multilingual translator Joo Ho-jin (Kim) is assigned to translate for global celebrity Cha Mu-hee (Go). He is the consummate professional. She, not so much. As she throws his life in chaos, he is unable to do anything to stop the whirlwind that is Cha Mu-hee and what she's doing to his heart.

29. 'Perfect Marriage Revenge' (2023) A promotional image for Perfect Marriage Revenge

Starring Jung Yoo-min, Sung Hoon
Available on Apple TV, Viki

I don't know why this series isn't on more "Best of" lists. This was such a great show. In this series, Han Yi-joo (Jung) is the adopted eldest daughter of a wealthy family. Despite their cold demeanor toward her, she is constantly working for their love and approval. Within a single day, she discovers the famous paintings her mother asked her to recreate were her side hustle—ripping people off by selling fakes as the real thing. She also learns her husband has been secretly lusting after her sister for years and has filed for divorce. Distraught, she drives off and gets into a car accident. She wakes up in the past where she decides not to play the chump. She calls off her engagement and sets her sights on Seo Do-guk (Sung), the man her sister wants to marry. She proposes to him and without hesitation he agrees.

30. 'The K2' (2016)

Starring Lim Yoon, Ji Chang-wook
Available on Viki, The Roku Channel, Tubi

Action-packed with car chases, gun fights and martial arts, this drama will be enjoyed by fans of franchises like Mission: Impossible. Former soldier Je-ha (Ji) is haunted by his time as a mercenary for a private military company. Framed for the murder of his girlfriend in Iraq, he goes on the run. He returns to Korea to work as a private bodyguard, but when he falls in love with An-na (Lim)—the disfavored stepdaughter of his boss—he’s not sure where to place his loyalty.

31. 'My Love From Another Star' (2013)

Starring Kim Soo-hyun, Jun Ji-hyun
Available on Netflix, Viki

An alien lands in Korea in 1609, but 400 years later his handsome face hasn’t aged a day. Min-joon (Kim Soo-hyun) poses as a professor but can’t trust anyone with his true identity. Three months before he’s set to return to his home planet, he meets his snobby, disaster-prone actress neighbor Song-yi (Jun Ji-hyun). Though they fall in love, Min-joon knows he needs to leave and distances her. But when an evil man threatens her, he’s determined to save her life.

32. 'Crash Landing On You' (2019) Son Ye-jin in Crash Landing On You

Netflix

Starring Son Ye-jin, Hyun Bin
Available on Netflix

This popular rom-com series was inspired by a real-life event when South Korean actress Jung Yang’s boat accidentally strayed into the boundary waters between North Korea and South Korea. In the show, however, it’s a paragliding incident that takes Yoon Se-ri (Son) into the northern country. The heiress to a Korean company, Se-ri is smart, determined and set to take over her father’s company–much to the dismay of her brothers and their wives–when she accidentally drifts into North Korea, propelled by strong gusts of wind. She meets a North Korean soldier (Hyun) who promises to protect her in foreign territory and love blossoms.

Fun Fact: The two actors, Hyun Bin and Son Ye-jin, fell in love and married in real life!

33. 'Suspicious Partner' (2017)

Starring Ji Chang-wook, Nam Ji-hyun
Available on Netflix, Viki

Noh Ji-wook (Ji) is a prosecutor and Eun Bong-hee (Nam) is training to become a prosecutor. When a murder happens close to her, she becomes the prime suspect. Circumstances find Noh as a private attorney and the two work together to prove her innocence. As they investigate the case, they discover how deeply they both are connected.

Related: Next Up:

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

A purse is the perfect accessory to complete any outfit. It elevates your look with a stylish touch, while allowing you to go about your day hands-free — it’s chic and practical! For those on the hunt for a new everyday bag, this Cecily Medium Shoulder Bag from Michael Kors Outlet is definitely worth a look.

Made from a polyurethane and polyester blend, this bag boasts a faux leather material. Multiple shoppers said they love the fabric and noted that it feels different compared to other Michael Kors bags, as it’s more soft and flexible. It's available in a classic black hue that goes with just about everything, which makes it even more of a closet must-have.

Cecily Medium Shoulder Bag, $116 (was $378) at Michael Kors Outlet Shop at Michael Kors Outlet

This bag sports a sleek silhouette with a curved top that gives it some modern flair. It’s complete with silver hardware, including the chain that links the body of the bag to the handles, the dangling MK bag charm, and the brand’s logo. The handle has a 10.5-inch drop designed to sit comfortably on your shoulder and shoppers mentioned that they love how the bag fits under their arm. 

Measuring 13.5 inches wide, 6.5 inches high, and 4.5 inches deep, reviewers noted that the bag is a lot more spacious than it looks and is able to hold all their essentials. One shopper said it "fits everything you need" while looking "super stylish and modern."

The interior has a slip pocket, which is ideal for organizing small loose items. It’s secured with a complete zip closure. As an added bonus, the bag has a flat bottom to prevent it from toppling over when you set it down. 

Related: Michael Kors Outlet’s 'Beautiful' Shoulder Bag Comes in 4 Colors, and It's Great for Summer Travel

“Though it’s on the smaller side, I was pleasantly surprised by how roomy it is inside,” one shopper said. “It’s stylish, practical, and beautifully made — I get compliments on it all the time!” Another reviewer called it their “everyday bag” and a “must-buy.”

Hurry and head over to Michael Kors Outlet and grab the Cecily Medium Shoulder Bag while it's still in stock! It's the kind of versatile carryall that you won't regret having in your wardrobe.

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.

As a general concept, Pod Meets World has been a way to see Cory, Topanga, Shawn and Eric through a 2020s lens. Over nearly five years, the hit rewatch podcast has had Danielle Fishel, Will Friedle and Rider Strong going through each episode of the iconic TGIF series, from behind-the-scenes stories to modern-day analysis of their lives both on and off-screen. And the trio would be the first to tell you how shocked they are with the success the project has provided.

"We didn't feel that we were popular while we were on the air," Friedle recalls in an exclusive sitdown with Parade. "When Boy Meets World was on, I always called it the Wings of TGIF. Everyone's like, 'I loved Wings the two seasons it was on.' Wings was on for 400 years. We always felt like the show that just kind of kept going. So we didn't realize we were all that popular."

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

"And I think when we started to do the podcast, one of the things that was startling to me was everyone coming out with, 'This was the show of my childhood. This was the thing that was so important to me.' And so it wasn't till 30 years later that I think we all realized just how special the show was to a lot of people."

Fans will get a peek into that special dynamic in Doc Meets World, a new documentary that has its world premiere at the Tribeca Festival on Saturday, June 6. The film depicts the tour the three went on in 2025 in honor of the 30-year anniversary of the hit sitcom, while also weaving through a number of interstitials and talking heads about not only the podcast, but the personal lives of the hosts as well.

"That was sort of after the fact," Strong surprisingly reveals about the making of the documentary. "So Chris Levitus and Zane Rubin, I've known them for years. But we've never talked about the Boy Meets World part of my life. We were just good friends. And so when they started filming us and following us on tour, they started gathering our stories, our personal stories. And that's when they were like, 'We should go back to your childhood home.' So they really were the impetus to go investigate a little bit more. It happened organically. They sort of pursued, 'Oh, let's tell the whole story of your lives, essentially. It's like the podcast."

Related: ‘Boy Meets World’ Stars Give Rare Insight into Major Fall Out with Former Co-Star: ‘I Haven’t Given Up On My Friend’

Pod Meets World has given fans the wonderful opportunity to see what the trio has been up to since the show concluded in 2000 — and more importantly, who we've become. But it does beg the question: Considering they're the foremost experts on their characters, what do they think Topanga, Shawn and Eric would be up to today?

It's a lofty task. Luckily, they have a bit of a cheat sheet courtesy of the sequel series Girl Meets World, which checked in on the Matthews family in the mid-2010s. In the Sabrina Carpenter and Rowan Blanchard-led series, Topanga was a successful attorney on a path to becoming a judge. But Fishel herself doesn't feel it would be her ultimate destination.

"She was supposed to go on to be a judge at some point," she says. "I don't know that Topanga would be a judge. I don't think she'd want to take that route. I think Topanga would really be doing pro bono work at a law firm where that she was a partner. Or maybe she started her own law firm, you know, with a very specific goal in mind. And hiring like minded people where the goal was to help people. I absolutely think that's where her path would have been."

Over the course of Boy Meets World, Eric explored a wide variety of careers, from weatherman to retail worker to photographer. Girl Meets World got him to the realm of politics, as he was elected mayor of St. Upidtown at the Canadian border. By the end of the series, Mr. Plays With Squirrels had gone to Washington, elected Senator. But, like many of Eric's jobs, Friedle doesn't think that panned out completely.

Related: ‘Boy Meets World’ Star Rider Strong Reveals the Actor He Didn’t Want To Join the Cast

"Eric was impeached from the Senate," he states simply. "He was really excited because he loves peaches. It did not turn out the way he thought it was going to. And he now probably lives on a farm growing those peaches that they didn't give him at his hearing."

Strong has his own fruitful ending for Shawn, and he doesn't have to reinvent the wheel much. In between the two shows, Shawn had traveled the world as a writer and photographer. And, after dealing with his unresolved feelings for old flame Angela (Trina McGee-Davis), he began to develop chemistry with Katy (Cheryl Texiera), the mother of Maya (Carpenter). The two would get married in the show's final season.

"I actually think where Shawn ended up on Girl Meets World was pretty great," Strong admits. "He ends up with a happy ending. Married, adopting Marya, that's great. That is a wonderful thing."

Regardless of what their fictional counterparts may be doing nowadays, we're so happy to have Fishel, Friedle and Strong all back in our lives, letting Boy MeetsWorld fans get to see the show through completely different eyes — and introducing it to a whole new wave of devotees.

Related: Danielle Fishel Names the ‘Boy Meets World’ Star She Thinks Would Shock Fans on ‘Dancing with the Stars' (Exclusive)

When it comes to concert etiquette, Madonnahas a stern warning for her fans.

The pop icon made a bold comment during the premiere of Confessions II – The Film at New York City's Beacon Theatre on Friday, June 5. Following the screening, Madonna participated in a Q&A alongside directing duo TORSO, moderated by Anderson Cooper, where the conversation eventually turned to how audiences have changed over the years.

Variety shared that attendees' devices were secured in Yondr pouches throughout the event, with Cooper noting how rare it has become to experience a crowd without a sea of screens.

Madonna agreed, saying society has developed a "persistent need" to document everything around them. While she acknowledged that technology is simply part of modern life, she admitted she's never quite embraced it herself. “I came to this earth to be a doer, not a watcher,” she said, per the outlet.

The singer used her appearance at Coachella alongside Sabrina Carpenteras an example of how dramatically concert culture has evolved. Rather than seeing fans dancing and connecting with one another, the 67-year-old said she was struck by the number of people viewing the experience through their phones.

So when Cooper asked whether she had any final thoughts to leave the audience with, Madonna didn't hesitate: “Put your f*cking phones down and connect.”

Madonna's unfiltered comments have been on full display while promoting Confessions II. During another Q&A last week, she was asked to name her "best d**k down" among people she'd dated who had since passed away. Her answer?John F. Kennedy Jr., whom she briefly romanced in the late 1980s.

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

The revelation prompted a stunned reaction from those onstage. Designer Raul Lopez noted, "You're the third person I've heard say that," to which the Queen of Pop replied, "So, you know it's true."

Though their relationship was short-lived, the pair remained connected in later years. According to An Intimate Oral Biography, Kennedy was flattered by Madonna's interest, and he later invited her to appear on the cover of his political magazine, George. 

Confessions II – The Film is set to premiere on YouTube on Monday, June 8, while her upcoming studio album, Confessions II, arrives July 3 via Warner Records.

Related: Tori Kelly Kicks Off the NBA Finals With National Anthem and Fans Have Thoughts

Over the years, countless iconic beverages have come and gone. And while mainstream brands have found ways to stay relevant through the decades, that success hasn't come without a long list of wild experiments. From energy drinks and bold new flavors to retro callbacks and wacky creations, part of staying on top of the beverage game is introducing something new in hopes of finding the next big hit.

In the 2000s, soda experimentation was at an all-time high, with major brands like Coca-Cola, Pepsi, Sprite and Mountain Dew rolling out a seemingly endless stream of new concepts. Coming off the fruity flavors, saturated colors and extreme advertisements of the 90s, the early 2000s ushered in an era of neon colors, wild flavor mashups and some truly unforgettable experiments.

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

To honor some of the most creative swings of the decade, we put together a list of 7 iconic 2000s sodas that earned a massive following and then quietly disappeared without a trace. Some were ahead of their time, others simply fell short of expectations and a few are still begging for a comeback. Follow along to see which ones you remember, and let us know if we missed any of your favorites.

2000s Sodas That Quietly Disappeared

Photo by Stockah on Getty Images

Say what you will about the new millennium, but it birthed some of the most iconic trends that still get talked about today. This list captures the decade’s bold creative risks and experimental spirit, narrowed down to 7 of the most unforgettable sodas of the era. Keep scrolling for a trip down memory lane.

1. Surge

Born in 1997 but very much a cult favorite heading into the early 2000s, Surge was Coca-Cola's answer to Mountain Dew, known for its bright green color, tangy citrus flavor and extreme sports-inspired marketing. At the time, Surge amassed a massive following among teens and young adults, though it eventually suffered a decline in sales and was discontinued in 2002.

That wasn't the end of Surge, however. The brand made a brief resurgence (pun intended) in 2014 when it returned as a 12-pack of 16-ounce cans sold exclusively through Amazon. Despite a loyal fan base, the revival was short-lived, and the iconic soda quietly vanished.

2. Pepsi Blue

Yet another attempt to challenge Mountain Dew's dominance, Pepsi Blue was introduced in 2002 as an answer to the wildly popular Code Red. This electric-blue soft drink paired cola with a sweet berry flavor, creating a vibrant, hard-to-miss product on store shelves. And while the novelty of Pepsi Blue helped it become an instant hit among teens, selling an impressive 17 million cases in its first year, its popularity quickly faded. By 2003, the soda had largely disappeared from store shelves before being discontinued the following year.

Like many of its fallen cohorts, Pepsi Blue made a limited comeback in 2021, giving fans another chance to experience its nostalgic flavor before disappearing entirely once again.

3. Sprite Remix

Easily one of the most popular experiments of the era, Sprite Remix was Coca-Cola’s attempt to put a fresh spin on its classic lemon-lime soda by launching an entire line of fruit-infused variations. Debuting in 2003 with Sprite Tropical Remix, the lineup eventually expanded to include BerryClear Remix and Aruba Jam Remix, giving fans a range of colorful takes on the iconic soft drink.

Despite its short run during the early 2000s, Sprite Remix amassed a devoted following. And even though it was discontinued after just a few years, Coca-Cola has occasionally revisited the nostalgic lineup through limited releases of reimagined Tropical Remix flavors, leaving fans still wondering why it never made a permanent comeback.

4. Coke BlāK

If you were around for the early 2000s, you might remember just how much the popularity of Starbucks flipped the beverage industry on its head. And seeing as Coca-Cola at the time had yet to offer a coffee-based beverage, this was the soda giant’s chance to capitalize on the trend. Coca-Cola BlāK was born in 2006, blending classic cola with a shot of rich coffee essence.

Confusion over what Coca-Cola BlāK was actually supposed to be ultimately held it back from success, as Coca-Cola failed to consistently define what it was meant to be: somewhere between a coffee-flavored soda and a soda-flavored coffee. Its taste also varied by market, with U.S. versions using high fructose corn syrup and aspartame, resulting in an overly sweet profile, a strong coffee finish and a noticeable artificial aftertaste. After a brief run, Coca-Cola BlāK was discontinued in 2008, becoming one of the brand’s more infamous flavor experiments.

Related: 10 Retro Taco Bell Items We Desperately Need Back on the Menu

5. Mountain Dew Pitch Black

Debuting originally in 2004 as a limited-time Halloween offering, Mountain Dew Pitch Black is a quintessential nostalgic product of the early 2000s. It immediately stood out for its deep purple color and bold grape flavor, existing within a wave of early 2000s experimental soda releases and quickly gaining a cult following for its unique flavor profile and spooky branding.

After its initial run, Mountain Dew Pitch Black earned enough positive feedback to secure several limited releases and variations over the years, including a sour alternative in 2005 known as Pitch Black II. But despite its strong fan following and repeated comebacks, Pitch Black never found a permanent place in the lineup, as its fruity flavor and slightly tangy edge eventually faded out of existence.

6. Vault

Located somewhere between a soda and an energy drink, Vault was released in 2005 as Coca-Cola’s way to bridge the gap between two beverage styles. Combining a citrus-heavy flavor with a soft drink profile, Vault featured a splash of energy and was marketed with the tagline “Drinks like a soda, kicks like an energy drink.”

Standing out in the mid-2000s for its bright neon packaging and loud, aggressive marketing, Vault was aimed at younger consumers, but it ultimately lost momentum as interest in hybrid soda-energy drinks eventually faded. Vault was discontinued in 2011, though over time it became a nostalgic reminder of the creative swings brands regularly took in the 2000s in the name of innovation.

7. Dr Pepper Berries & Cream

Born into a world of tasty infusions, Dr Pepper Berries & Cream released in 2006 as part of the brand’s “Soda Fountain Classics” line, which already had a hit on its hands with the famed Cherry Vanilla flavor. Meant to be a permanent companion to its Cherry Vanilla counterpart, Berries & Cream blended the brand’s signature 23-flavor base with raspberry and vanilla cream notes, creating a sweet, dessert-like flavor. It also featured a diet version and hit shelves with a full nationwide marketing campaign and sampling events to boot.

Despite high expectations of success, Berries & Cream didn’t achieve anywhere near the level of popularity as its Cherry Vanilla predecessor, and it was pulled from shelves after just a few short months. That said, it did make a brief comeback in 2022, with an extremely limited rewards program giveaway through Pepper Perks, Dr Pepper’s digital rewards platform. And while it is still discontinued to this day, the flavor’s short lifespan and multiple half-comebacks easily cement its status as one of the early 2000s’ more memorable experiments.

Feeling a bit nostalgic? Whether you’re looking to quench your thirst or read up on more iconic food and beverage creations, check out these 10 fast-food items that caused massive public outrage and the 10 retro Taco Bell items we desperately need back.

Related: 15 Discontinued Fast-Food Burgers We Are Still Begging Them to Bring Back

In 1982, music icons George Thorogood and the Destroyers released a blues-rock anthem that would go on to become one of the industry's most recognizable epics.

The band released "Bad to the Bone" on August 9, 1982 as the title track of their fifth studio album. Peaking at No. 27 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock chart, the song enjoyed some commercial success upon its initial release. Years after it first came out, the song was introduced to a wider audience after it was featured in prominent movies and television shows such as 1991's Terminator 2: Judgment Day, starring Linda Hamilton and Arnold Schwarzenegger, and 1998's The Parent Trap, starringLindsay Lohan.

A huge hit on MTV, the legendary music video features Thorogood playing a game of pool against rock and roll superstar Bo Diddley.

“I first heard Bo Diddley in 1966,” Thorogood told NME in 2008. “I knew The Rolling Stones were big on this guy and I got a copy of Bo Diddley’s ’16 All-Time Greatest Hits’ and flipped over it, and played it constantly.”

In addition to introducing Thorogood to Diddley's music, The Rolling Stones were an inspiration to Thorogood when releasing his own work. "Bad to the Bone" was the first song that he had ever written, and it was during his 1981 tour with British rock band when he was spurred on to create his own original music.

"I did those gigs with the Stones,” Thorogood recalled, per Classic Rock. “And I noticed that every time they went into the opening of 'Start Me Up'—it’s a very brief opening, and there’s a pause—the response from the audience was just over-the-top."

"So I said to myself: ‘Georgie, you gotta come up with a song, kid,'" he continued. "'You gotta write something that gets that response when you go into it.’" 

It paid off, as "Bad to the Bone" has one of the most recognizable riffs in music history. The signature guitar lick is based on "stop-time" techniques, call-and-response blues traditions, and uses open G tuning.

Related: 1972 Classic, Lasting Over 23 Minutes, Remains One of Progressive Rock's Most Beloved Anthems 54 Years Later

It’s been seven months since Heated Rivalry was first released to Crave and HBO Max, and fans are already begging for more.

Based on the book of the same name written by Rachel Reid, the romance drama took the internet by storm at the end of 2025. Since then, a second season for the show has been greenlit, with Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie reprising their roles as Heated Rivalry’s beloved couple, Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov.

While we wait for more episodes, here’s everything we know about season 2 of Heated Rivalry.

Season 2 will be based on The Long Game by Rachel Reid

Written as the sequel to her Heated Rivalry book, Reid’s The Long Game will be the main source of inspiration for season 2. The book is set ten years after Shane and Ilya first started seeing each other, and follows the couple as they try to decide what’s most important to them: hockey or love.

"It really is different," Jacob Tierney, Heated Rivalry’s showrunner, said during a panel at BookCon in April. “And the challenge, from an adaptation standpoint, is you're in much more serious territory. There's still lots of flirting, and there's lots of sex, but it's this kind of danger. This kind of 'hotel room, adolescent sex' stuff is largely gone."

Filming will begin this summer

In an interview with Gayle King on CBS Mornings, Tierney and executive producer Brendan Brady revealed that the show will begin shooting in August. The scripts are currently being written, and Justin Stockman, Bell Media’s VP of Global Content, said to Deadline that they’re “coming together really well.”

“I don’t think anyone will be disappointed,” Stockman said.

It’s scheduled to return in spring 2027

While rumors of the show’s return have been spreading for months, Bell Media confirmed to Deadline that the show is officially scheduled to return to Crave and HBO Max in spring of 2027. Carlyn Klebuc, Bell’s General Manager of Original Programming, told Deadline that they would have liked it to be faster.

“But Jacob is writing and directing, and he needs the time to make another beautiful season, which we’re confident he will do,” Klebuc said.

You can already enter to win tickets to the premiere

In support of Rainbow Railroad, an organization that helps LGBTQIA+ people find safety, you can already enter to win tickets to the 2027 Heated Rivalry season 2 premiere. The contest is available to enter through Charitybuzz, with extra entries given to those who donate more. Check it out here.

On June 3, Top Gun: Maverick actor James Handy was stabbed and killed in Tarzana, Calif. Michael Gledhill, who was accused of stabbing the actor, was formally charged on June 5 by Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman.

Gledhill is the son of Handy’s girlfriend, Wendy. Gledhill has been charged with “one count of murder with a special allegation that he personally used a deadly weapon, a knife,” according to a news release from the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office.

“This is not how anyone’s life should end, stabbed in the chest and left dying in the front yard of a home,” Hochman said in the news release. “The victim, James Handy, deserved to live out his later years enjoying what he had worked so hard for and enjoying it with those he loved and cared about. Like all murder victims, his life mattered and the person who inexplicably and violently took it must be held accountable for his actions.”

According to the release, Gledhill faces up to 26 years to life in state prison. Prosecutors are currently recommending that his bail be set at $2.02 million. The case still remains under investigation by the Los Angeles Police Department’s Robbery-Homicide Division.

Several celebrities and Handy’s friends have taken to social media to pay tribute to him, including writer/producer Don Winslow, known for his work on UC: Undercover.

"James Handy was a terrific actor, and we were honored to have him on UC: Undercover in a recurring role,” Winslow posted on X. “His performances were always special."

“I could not have asked for a more talented, humble or gracious client and friend than James Handy,” Pam Ellis-Evenas, Handy’s agent, said in an email to the Associated Press.

Read the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office’s full news release here.

Whether you’re a perpetually voracious reader, someone who can’t hit the beach without a book in hand, or an audiobook lover, you’ve likely picked up a historical fiction novel at some point. Even if it’s not your go-to genre, there’s something about being transported to another time that has universal appeal.

The best historical fiction books serve as handheld time machines, offering a fantastic dose of escapism that involves immersing yourself in a completely different era. For a sense of the next one you should read, look no further than your birth month, which offers useful intel on your perspective, strengths, and even life purpose. Explore expert insights from Maressa Brown.

Your Ideal Historical Fiction Novel, Based on Your Birth Month

Read on to learn which historical fiction book might be an instant classic as far as you’re concerned, based on the month you were born.

January: Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus

Born as a new year was just beginning, you came into the world as the sun traveled through hardworking, serious Capricorn or rebellious, eccentric Aquarius. Both signs are ruled by Saturn, the taskmaster planet, offering you a respect for putting your nose to the grindstone and finding work that resonates with your mind and your heart, a theme that is woven throughout Bonnie Garmus’s 2022 novel set in 1960s Los Angeles. Protagonist and chemist Elizabeth Zott has to trade her lab coat for an apron when she is forced out of the research world and is hired as the host of a cooking show called Supper at Six. Featuring themes of feminism and passion for scientific progress, Lessons in Chemistry will appeal to your forward-thinking spirit.  

RELATED: Best-Selling Author’s New Historical Fiction Novel Is Barnes & Noble’s June Book of the Month

February: Daisy Jones & the Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid

Born when the sun was moving through either quirky, revolutionary air sign Aquarius or poetic, spiritual hippie heart water sign Pisces, you’re a dreamer who finds it easier to strike out against convention than to adhere to arbitrary rules and regulations. That said, you’re sure to fall head over heels for Daisy, the rebellious, wild child, free spirited main character of Taylor Jenkins Reid’s hit 2019 novel that was actually turned into a Prime miniseries in 2023. Inspired by Fleetwood Mac, the book is written as an oral history of a legendary 1970s rock band.  

RELATE?: 4 Birth Months That Make The Best Writers

March: Outlander by Diana Gabaldon

Because you were born while the sun was in empathic, psychic water sign Pisces or action-oriented, impulsive fire sign Aries, you’re a rose-colored glasses-wearing romantic and a go-getter who can get behind an epic adventure like Outlander, the historical fantasy series by Diana Gabaldon that kicked off in 1991 and was turned into a TV series in 2014. The novels, which follow British nurse Claire Randall from the 20th century back in time to 18th century Scotland, where she meets Highland warrior Jamie Fraser, are full of heart-pounding thrills and steamy romance, which can’t help but appeal to your driven, whimsical nature.

April: The Other Boleyn Girl by Philippa Gregory

Born when the sun was moving through either passionate, competitive fire sign Aries or Taurus, the grounded, tactile earth sign, you are determined, pour your whole heart into your desires, and believe deeply in your aspirations. You’ll be engaged by the story of Mary and Anne Boleyn who were pitted against one another to aim for the affections of King Henry VIII as it’s a tale of ambition, survival, and freedom. 

May: The Secret Book Society by Madeline Martin

Whether you were born when the sun was moving through grounded, practical earth sign Taurus or social, curious air sign Gemini, genuine, fulfilling relationships are at the epicenter of what matters to you in life. In The Secret Book Society, which is set in 1895 London, three women join a secret book club hosted by Lady Duxbury. Blending suspense and romance while touching on themes like sisterhood, this 2025 novel will speak to your adoration for nurturing your most heartfelt bonds.

June: The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan

As a person who came into the world when the sun was in either super-social air sign Gemini or emotionally intelligent, heartfelt water sign Cancer, your bonds with loved ones are a top priority. Following the story of four Chinese immigrant families in San Francisco who start a mahjong club known as The Joy Luck Club, this hit 1989 novel, which was adapted to an Oscar-nominated film in 1993, is structured in short vignettes and will appeal to your cerebral, nurturing soul. 

EXPLORE: The Literary Woman Your Birth Month Embodies

July: Before the Crown by Flora Harding

Born when the sun was in either deeply caregiving water sign Cancer or theatrical, big-hearted fire sign Leo, you believe in showing up fully for your nearest and dearest — and are a pro at falling in love. Both themes are woven throughout Harding’s 2021 novel that’s set in 1940s England and centers on Princess Elizabeth and Prince Philip’s courtship in the wake of WWII. Brimming with “royal secrets and forbidden love,” Before the Crown has been called a must-read for fans of Netflix’s The Crown and will appeal to your unflinchingly romantic outlook on life. 

August: Z: A Novel of Zelda Fitzgerald by Therese Fowler

Whether you were born under sunny, dynamic fire sign Leo or cerebral, thoughtful Virgo, you believe deeply in following your heart and pursuing your greatest ambitions. You may be a tad (or a lot) theatrical and want to make the most of life in any given moment, much like Zelda Fitzgerald, the protagonist in Therese Fowler’s 2013 biographical novel about the wife of F. Scott Fitzgerald. Spanning 1918 to 1940, the fictionalized account of Zelda’s life aims to set the record straight on the famous flapper party girl and OG Daisy Buchanan who Fowler casts as an independent creative whose writing talent were never given due credit. As someone who can understand the need to be recognized for their artistic prowess, this take on Zelda’s life and decline will light your inner fire. 

READ: 4 Birth Months Who Have Always Been Bookworms

September: The Paris Wife by Paula McLain

You were born under either intelligent, communication-savvy earth sign Virgo or partnership-loving, balance-seeking air sign Libra, which means literature and romance are themes that appeal to your heart and mind. In turn, you’ll adore diving into Paula McLain’s New York Times Bestseller published in 2011. A fictionalized biography of Ernest Hemingway’s first wife, Hadley Richardson, the book was based on the couple’s biographies, letters, and Hemingway’s novels and transports the reader back in time to galavant with the literati of 1920s Paris. 

October: The Mists of Avalon by Marion Zimmer Bradley

The sun moved through balance-seeking air sign Libra and powerful water sign Scorpio during the month you came into the world, which means you’re someone who knows your heart and is willing to go to great lengths to follow it. This 1983 historical fantasy novel reimagines Arthurian legends from the point of view of the female characters, Morgaine, Gwenhwyfar (Guinevere), Viviane, Morgause, Igraine, and others. You’ll be mesmerized by Bradley’s transformative, complex, political, and magical take on romance and the thrilling adventures of Camelot's court. 

November: Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens

Whether you were born under the fearless water sign Scorpio or adventurous fire sign Sagittarius, your passionate heart will be moved by this brilliant murder mystery, courtroom drama, and bold love story beloved by millions of readers. Published in 2018, Owens’s coming-of-age book kicks off in 1969 and flashes back to the ‘50s, telling the story of Kya, who grows up flying solo in the marshes of North Carolina and ultimately finds herself on trial for murder. Given your desire to better understand and explore human nature, Crawdads, which was adapted to a film in 2022, is sure to grip you. 

December: The Alice Network: A Novel by Kate Quinn 

Born with your sun in either adventurous fire sign Sagittarius or industrious earth sign Capricorn, you aim to step outside your comfort zone and make your mark. You’ll find yourself enthralled by Kate Quinn’s story of a spy recruited to the Alice Network in France during World War I and an American socialite who is searching for her cousin in 1947. In two different timelines, the women are brought together in a story that is grounded in themes of courage, redemption, wartime glory, and sacrifice. 

UP NEXT:

Jeremy Piven, best known for his role as Ari Gold in HBO’s Entourage, has finally sold his home in Los Angeles. But not nearly for the price he was hoping for.

Piven purchased his Mount Olympus mansion in 2017 for $6.8 million. The 6,200-square-foot home was originally built in 1980, boasting everything from an infinity-edge pool to a two-story glass conservatory.

Piven listed it as a $35,000 per-month rental before finally putting it up for sale at $9.49 million in January 2025. After over one year of looking for a buyer, the home finally sold this month at $6.85 million. Realtor.com reported that the actor will have to pay a 4% levy on the sale price, meaning he won’t be getting much more than he paid for the home.

Piven was represented by the Beverly Hills Estates, who never revealed why he was selling the home. Although Piven has an “impressive and varied property portfolio that includes several other dwellings,” according to Realtor.com, his Mount Olympus property “was certainly one of the jewels in that crown.”

“The two levels of the four-bedroom, five-bathroom residence have a switchback design connected by a floating staircase,” Architectural Digest wrote after Piven bought the home. “The marble-and-dark-wood kitchen flows into the dining area, which has glass walls that open into the backyard. A dark-wood floating bookshelf separates living and game rooms, which also benefit from sweeping views and ample natural light through the glass walls.”

The home is positioned above the Sunset Strip, close to West Hollywood and Beverly Hills. It also boasts a fire pit lounge, multiple patios and a lawn “all set against a world-class backdrop,” the listing said.

Realtor.com noted that Piven had put his own spin on the home, with many listing photos showing personal items like a drum kit, framed photos and even Emmy statues that were awarded to him during his time on Entourage.

Check out photos of the Los Angeles home here.

Jon Cryer starred in the iconic romcom Pretty in Pinkalongside Molly Ringwald in 1986. Cryer played Duckie, who had a rivalry with Blane McDonough, played by Andrew McCarthy. However, Cryer revealed that the tension wasn’t only on screen. The two didn’t get along in real life, either.

In an interview with Page Six, Cryer said, “I thought he was aloof and just a d–k. We had all kinds of issues.”

Cryer recalled one specific moment when he was trying to film a close-up and Ringwald and McCarthy were goofing around on the set. “I got really mad at them,” he said. “I found out that the director asked them to do that because he wanted me really mad for the scene. But at the time, I didn’t know.”

Related: Stanley Tucci, 65, Discusses 21 Year Age Gap With His Wife: ‘We Had Nothing in Common

However, looking back, Cryer realized that McCarthy was struggling more than he realized when they were filming the hit movie. “I didn’t know that he was going through; he was battling his own demons and had a fractured family relationship with his dad. And he was already starting to have issues with alcohol,” he said. “None of this I knew about at the time, so of course he was aloof. He was just trying to keep it together on a really big job.”

Cryer shared a similar sentiment during an interview with PEOPLEin 2024. “Molly and I were work friends,” he said. “Andrew and I couldn’t even manage that. I had no idea he was already dealing with an alcohol addiction. At the time, I perceived him as kind of haughty and remote, but had I known he was working so hard just to keep it together, I might have been more understanding.”

Related: ‘The Love Boat’ Star Exposes One Man on Set Who ‘Was Not a Good Human’

McCarthy wasn’t a fan of Cryer, either. In his 2021 memoir, Brat: An '80s Story, he revealed that he disliked the actor because he had “a nervous laugh I found irritating.”

Luckily, Cryer revealed that the pair are on good terms today. “Andrew and I have had a lot of communication in the last couple of years,” he revealed.

Over-the-counter medications are nothing if not convenient. If you feel a cold coming on, you can pop over to your local pharmacy and grab something to soothe symptoms so it's slightly less cruddy. Yet, hepatologists are begging people not to take common medications so casually. In fact, they say it's best to talk to your doctor before taking OTC medicines, even though you don't need a prescription.

"Since over-the-counter medications are easy to obtain, it’s a common assumption that they are safe by default," Dr. Brian T. Lee, MD, a transplant hepatologist at Hoag Digestive Health Institute and director of the Hoag Liver Program, tells Parade. "This, unfortunately, isn’t the case, and I see the consequences of this assumption frequently as a hepatologist."

OK—what does medication for a cold or backache have to do with the liver? A lot, as it turns out.

"The liver is responsible for metabolizing most medicines," Dr. Lee explains, noting that the liver has only so much capacity to metabolize medicines safely. When you take a dose that's higher than advised, use a medication too frequently or combine it with something like alcohol, it's possible to damage the liver.

"While concerning, the reality is that much of this type of harm is preventable, and the first step is understanding that just because a medication is available without a prescription does not mean it is harmless," Dr. Lee says. "Recognizing that is an important distinction and is where responsible use begins."

For this reason, hepatologists like Dr. Lee wish people would stop taking this common medication so casually.

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

The Common Medication To Stop Taking So Casually, Hepatologists Say

"Acetaminophen overdosage is the most common cause of acute liver failure in the United States," states Dr. Veronica Loy, DO, a transplant hepatologist and the medical director of liver transplantation at Rush University Medical Center. Acetaminophen is the generic name for the active ingredient in brands like Tylenol.

The FDA is also begging people not to overuse acetaminophen, saying it can lead to overdose and "severe liver damage.

Dr. Lee says that acetaminophen-induced liver failure can happen in several ways. Unintentional overdoses, sometimes called “therapeutic misadventure,” are common.

skhoward/Getty Images

"This happens when patients are not trying to harm themselves, and most likely, they even believe they are taking the medication safely," Dr. Lee reports. "Then, they do something unknowingly harmful, like taking multiple products simultaneously without realizing that each contains acetaminophen. Common scenarios of this include mixing cold and flu medications, sleep aids and/or prescription combination pain medications." 

Acetaminophen is a pain reliever, but it's often compounded with other cold and pain remedies, including NyQuil and Percocet, warns Dr. Lee F. Peng, MD, Ph.D., the chief of gastroenterology and hepatology at Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore University Medical Center. All of these contribute to the safe dose of acetaminophen, even if you're taking Tylenol as directed.

Plus, you can find Tylenol in Extra Strength, which contains 500 milligrams of acetaminophen (regular Tylenol has 325 milligrams of acetaminophen).

The dose per day isn't the only part of the label to pay attention to. Dr. Lee points out that OTC medicines will also say how many days in a row you can take them. "Liver injury also occurs when someone consistently exceeds the maximum recommended dose over consecutive days, even if each dose is not extreme," he explains. "It can also happen at lower doses in people with underlying liver disease, those who have poor nutrition or other risk factors."

Alcohol use is one of those risk factors (which is why acetaminophen and alcohol don't mix). "Regular alcohol intake also increases the risk of liver toxicity from acetaminophen use, making smaller doses of acetaminophen potentially toxic," says Dr. Anurag Maheshwari, MD, a hepatologist at Mercy.

Related: We Asked 3 Hepatologists What To Drink in the Morning for Liver Health and They All Said the Same Thing

How Much Acetaminophen Can You Take?

"The average healthy adult can tolerate up to 4,000 milligrams of acetaminophen in 24 hours," Dr. Loy states. "That is about eight regular Tylenol or six Extra Strength Tylenol."

Still, she says it's crucial to check your other medicines to make sure you're not getting acetaminophen through other sources, too, noting that alcohol use or steatosis of the liver can lower your limit for safe use of acetaminophen. Dr. Loy says that people with liver problems are advised to cap acetaminophen intake at 2,000 milligrams daily.

Dr. Loy warns that even regular, moderate alcohol use can impact your liver's ability to handle medications, including acetaminophen.

Your best bet? "We recommend that patients do not drink alcoholic beverages while taking Tylenol because of the potential serious liver damage that can result from consuming two separate substances that both can damage the liver at the same time," Dr. Peng says.

Besides, alcohol won't heal that flu or back pain any faster—if anything, it'll drag them out.

Related: ‘I’m a Hepatologist—This Is the One Thing I Tell Every Patient With Fatty Liver Disease To Do Before Anything Else’

Alternatives to Acetaminophen

When used correctly, acetaminophen is considered safe to use. However, you may be interested in alternatives.

"The most common OTC alternatives for acetaminophen are NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and naproxen sodium," Dr. Lee says. "These medications work differently from acetaminophen and are effective for pain and inflammation. However, they carry their own risks, including irritating the stomach or increasing the risk of ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding."

People with liver disease may be able to use acetaminophen, and everyone needs to use any medication as directed. "NSAIDs should be used cautiously in chronic liver disease and are generally avoided in cirrhosis, especially in the setting of ascites, kidney dysfunction...and low platelet counts," Dr. Lee says, adding that you may also be able to try more natural strategies instead of reaching for acetaminophen, like heat, ice, physical therapy and rest.

Related: This 1 Vitamin May Reverse a Common Health Condition, According to a Hepatologist

Hepatologists' Tips for Safe Medication Use

Over-the-counter medication can be safe and effective, but it's important to understand that they aren't without risks. To manage these risks and protect your short and long-term health, hepatologists recommend:

1. Seek advice from an expert. Dr. Loy suggests reviewing the risks and benefits of certain OTC medications with you so you can make an informed choice: "What you may see on social media or word of mouth may not apply to everyone."
2. Tell your provider about all medications you take, including over-the-counter products. Since medications and supplements can interact with one another, Dr. Lee says it's possible they can make underlying conditions worse and contribute to liver damage. So, you'll want to flag any medications you're already taking with your provider during your risk-benefit discussions.
3. Follow the instructions on the label. Dr. Maheshwari stresses that this one is huge. "Unfortunately, some people have a habit of just taking a handful and not paying attention to the exact dose—they can be consuming something that is strongly advised against."
4. Do not take a higher dose because a medication “isn’t working." Dr. Lee emphasizes that "more medication" doesn't always mean "more benefit." "With acetaminophen, exceeding the recommended dose may not provide better pain relief, but it does increase the risk of liver injury. If the labeled dose is not controlling the pain or fever, that is a signal to call your doctor, not to take more medicine."

Up Next:

Related: 2 Supplements You Should Never Take if You Want To Protect Your Liver, According to Hepatologists

Sources:

• Dr. Brian T. Lee, MD, a transplant hepatologist at Hoag Digestive Health Institute and director of the Hoag Liver Program
• Dr. Lee F. Peng, MD, Ph.D., the chief of gastroenterology and hepatology at Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore University Medical Center
• Dr. Veronica Loy, DO, a transplant hepatologist and the medical director of liver transplantation at Rush University Medical Center 
• Dr. Anurag Maheshwari, MD, a hepatologist at Mercy
• Acetaminophen Toxicity. National Center for Biotechnology Information.
• Don’t Overuse Acetaminophen. FDA.
• Acetaminophen. National Center for Biotechnology Information.