Parade

Subscribe to Parade feed Parade
Your daily destination for celebrity news, videos, entertainment, food, recipes, health tips, fitness, and games from America's most popular magazine.
Updated: 19 min 23 sec ago

‘Toy Story 5’ Theory Emerges Amid Taylor Swift Announcement — and Fans Think Another Singer Is Involved

Mon, 06/01/2026 - 3:37pm

A cryptic new video from singer Alex Warren has sparked a wave of online speculation, with fans wondering if it could be tied to the upcoming Toy Story 5 soundtrack. The speculation started just before Taylor Swift was confirmed to be contributing an original song to the film’s soundtrack.

Warren, whose music has become a staple over the past year, recently posted a video showing him suspended by strings against a blue sky backdrop filled with white clouds.

"48 hours. Be ready," Warren captioned the post.

View this post on Instagram

While not as in-your-face as some of the Swift Easter eggs have been, the post was enough to convince fans that Warren's announcement also has to do with Toy Story 5.

"Imagine if he featured in Toy Story 5," one person wrote in the comments section of the post.

"Hey, Toy Story maybe could have a Tay song and a Alex song??? Please, I don't wanna wake up," someone else said.

"Why is everyone announcing things with countdowns like Taylor Alison Swift," a third comment read.

"WAIT STOP TS5?" a fourth Instagram user asked.

Days earlier, Warren announced that he was getting ready to release his new song, "Passenger." He posted a video of himself singing the song with the same background as today's post. In the caption, he said the song would be out in a week. It's unclear if the two posts are related or if Warren's big announcement has anything to do with Toy Story 5—but fans will find out on Wednesday, June 3.

Costco’s Versatile 8-Piece Luggage Set Looks Like a Designer Style Over 3x the Price

Mon, 06/01/2026 - 3:30pm

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

Traveling can be stressful, and flying has a way of making it a little bit worse. That's why having the right setup in place before you leave can make a big difference in how smooth the overall experience feels.

One of the easiest ways to stay organized while traveling is with a reliable luggage set. Whether it’s a quick weekend trip or a longer family getaway, with the right pieces on hand, packing can be a lot less chaotic and far more streamlined in your favor.

That's why shoppers are currently racing to Costco for the CALPAK Evry 8-piece Luggage Bundle, a $180 streamlined solution for stress-free travel and organized packing alike. Even better, it bears a striking resemblance to a designer style over three times the price.

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

CALPAK Evry 8-piece Luggage Bundle, $179.99 at Costco View this post on Instagram

Spotted in-warehouse by @costcofam4u with a $10 discount attached (the online price is $189.99), the CALPAK Evry 8-piece Luggage Bundle provides a higher standard in luggage design by offering everything you need for a smoother travel experience. Available in black and green colorways, this 8-piece set includes both large and carry-on suitcases that feature built-in TSA-approved locks, personal ID tags and 360-degree spinner wheels designed for easy transportation.

At $180 in-store, this set is already a better deal than a lot of other single luggage pieces. And considering you get two luggage sizes, along with three sizes of packing cubes and two easy-to-clean pouches for keeping your belongings organized, that price suddenly feels like an absolute steal. Plus, when you compare the set to the Hue Starter Bundle 8-Piece Set, it’s pretty impressive how similar they are in what you get, while saving nearly $400 in the process.

Related: Hobby Lobby's 'Sturdy' 3-Tier Plant Stand Is So 'Perfect,' Shoppers Say They've Bought It More Than Once

“Best purchase ever,” one shopper raved in a review online. “I can’t believe I got such an amazing deal on this bundle! I have used Calpak for the past 8 years and their products have never failed me.”

“Beyond impressed,” another fan added. “I love this luggage set so much I bought a set for everyone in my family,” they added, while noting that the “carry-on is very roomy and great for a 3 day business trip.”

If you’re thinking about snagging a set for yourself or a loved one, you can expect to find 3 packing cubes, 1 laundry bag, 1 shoe bag and 1 luggage tag included, along with a 20-inch carry-on and 28-inch checked suitcase. You’ll also get to enjoy amenities like bottom grab handles for easier lifting, an expandable design with up to 2 inches of extra space and interior dividers with multiple pockets for added storage.

That said, this is one deal that is guaranteed to sell fast, so be sure to check with your local Costco to see if you can snag it before it’s gone while the discount is still in place. And if you really like what you’re seeing, don’t forget to check out Costco’s 3-tier mesh rolling cart and 8-piece BBQ set for more must-have warehouse finds.

Related: Shoppers Are Reliving the '80s With Costco's Retro Party Essential

2000s Rock Band, Once Split for 6 Years, Announces New Album

Mon, 06/01/2026 - 3:28pm

Fans of Wednesday 13 and Murderdolls received some exciting news on Monday morning.

Joseph Poole, who is best known by his stage name Wednesday 13, announced via Instagram that he will be releasing his first live album in six years, titled Un-Alive from Pol'and'Rock 2025, on Sept. 25. A lead single and its music video will be released on June 17 via Napalm Records.

The live album's tracklist is set to have 15 tracks that will take his fans from the beginning of his career through his solo catalog, including Murderdoll classics like "Summertime Suicide" and "197666", two songs from his debut album Transylvania 90210, "Too Fast For Blood" from his 2013 album The Dixie Dead and more.

"A career-spanning set of both Wednesday 13 and Murderdolls hits, the band journeys through Mr. Mother[explicit] extensive catalogue," Poole wrote in his caption. "A bloody good time from beginning to end, this album is meant to be heard with the windows down, your accelerator through the floor, and bats on the moonlit horizon."

View this post on Instagram

Poole began his music career in 1992 when he played guitar for Psycho Opera, then became the vocalist for Maniac Spider Trash soon after. In 2002, Poole founded Murderdolls alongside Joey Jordison and touring members Tripp Eisen, Eric Griffin, Ben "The Ghoul" Graces and Acey Slade. The rock group only released two studio albums: Beyond the Valley of the Murderdolls in 2002 and Women and Children Last in 2010. In between, Murderdolls took a hiatus for six years from 2004 to 2010, before officially calling it quits in 2011.

When Murderdolls went on break, Poole started his solo career and went on a tour around the United Kingdom under the stage name Wednesday 13. During the six-year hiatus, Poole released three successful studio albums. In total, Wednesday 13 has 10 studio albums, five EPs and six live and compilation albums. His most recent release was his 2025 album, Mid Death Crisis.

Wednesday 13 performs at Bloodstock Festival at Catton Hall on August 10, 2018 in Burton Upon Trent, England.

Katja Ogrin/Redferns

Wednesday 13 expressed the possibility of a Murderdolls reunion to Metal Hammer back in 2017, saying that it would be "a great idea."

"Murderdolls at the moment is the same as it’s been since 2011 – there hasn’t been any conversation between Joey and I. I just tell everybody, ‘From what I hear through the grapevine, Joey is possibly interested in doing Murderdolls again at some point,'" he told the publication. "I think the idea of us doing something in [the] future and doing shows would be a great idea. I don't see why we couldn't. In my mind, if we did anything first, it would be a couple of shows or some festivals."

Unfortunately, Jordison passed away in his sleep on July 26, 2021. Though his family never publicly disclosed the exact medical cause of his death, the drummer was diagnosed with acute transverse myelitis, a severe neurological condition that causes inflammation in the spine.

Murderdolls during Murderdolls Tour 2002 at Whiskey in Los Angeles, California, United States.

Annamaria DiSanto/WireImage

Fans can now pre-order Un-Alive from Pol'and' Rock 2025 on Napalm Records' official website. The live album will be available in a Digipak CD, three different vinyl variants and a digital album.

Un-Alive from Pol'and' Rock 2025 by Wednesday 13 will be out on all streaming platforms on Sept. 25.

Related: '90s Country Rock Band Announces Update on First-Ever Live Album

1970 Hit Track, First Recorded by a Hollywood Actor, Became a No. 1 Career-Defining Love Ballad

Mon, 06/01/2026 - 3:26pm

Recording a cover song has often led to breakout and career-defining hits, and it was no different for American duo The Carpenters. Shortly after signing with a record label in 1969, Karen and Richard Carpenter released their second album, with a track that went No.1 and earned them their first Grammy win.

"(They Long to Be) Close to You" is considered a soft pop ballad that was originally released years earlier in 1963. It was first sung and released by Hollywood star George Chamberlain, who started as a teen heartthrob leading the show Dr. Kildare. He became known for hits like CentennialShōgun, the Three Musketeers trilogy, and the first to portray Jason Bourne.

Chamberlain's version had moderate success and was written by Burt Bacharach and his songwriting partner Hal David. It wasn't until the Carpenters released the track that it gained critical acclaim. According to American Songwriter, the song was shopped around to a few artists, including Herb Alpert, after his success with the 1968 track "This Guy's in Love With You."

Alpert ended up recording the track, but was displeased with it and never actually released it. It was said that he felt uncomfortable singing some of the lyrics, and instead passed it on to The Carpenters for consideration. Alpert felt they were better suited for the track after their hit "Ticket to Ride" entered the Billboard Hot 100 charts. Richard was then told by Bacharach that he could change the song anyway he wanted, as long as he kept the piano riff at the end of the bridge.

Along with some music changes, Richard felt the title was too long and was the one who added the parentheses around "They Long to Be." The ballad about longing love was soon released and dominated the Billboard Hot 100 charts at No. 1 for four weeks, with a total of 17 weeks on the charts.

For the Carpenters, "(They Long to Be) Close to You" became their career-defining and breakthrough hit. It earned the music duo their first of three Grammy awards for Best Contemporary Performance by a Duo, Group or Chorus and was later certified gold. Having been released in early May, the song was also tagged as the best of the summer of 1971.

"(They Long to Be) Close to You" would also become a pop culture sensation that became a plot device in the 1989 film Parenthood, and was used in The Simpsons Movie. It would play a key part in the animated series during emotional moments between Homer and Marge.

Related: 1966 Folk Rock Hit, Written in 15 Minutes, Ranked Among ‘Best Protest Songs' of All Time

The Best Beach Bar in the U.S. Is in the Most Unlikely State

Mon, 06/01/2026 - 3:19pm

As summer heats up, beachgoers across the country flock to bars for postcard-worthy views, fresh seafood, and ice-cold beverages right along the surf. And from California’s sweeping coastlines to Florida’s eternally sunny stretches of sand, there are plenty of oceanside taprooms to choose from in the U.S. USA Today’s Readers' Choice Awards named the ten very best beach bars of them all, and the location of the number one watering hole might surprise you. 

Bungalow Bar on New York City’s Rockaway Beach took the top spot as the best beach bar in the country. While New York State—and especially the Big Apple—probably isn’t the first place you’d expect to find bartenders serving tropical cocktails, the urban oasis impressed voters with unbeatable views and a lively atmosphere. Revelers enjoy panoramic bay scenery from the bar and restaurant’s sprawling outdoor deck, where the city skyline can be seen twinkling in the distance.

Related: This Florida Beach Town Just Won Best Beach 3 Years Running — and Retirees Are Obsessed With It

What to Expect at Bungalow Bar

The cocktail menu includes classic beach sips like fruit-flavored margaritas and huckleberry lemonade, as well as unique pours like a spicy watermelon drink and a peach basil breeze. Lobster rolls, steak, and barbecue dishes are all at the ready to satiate your appetite after a long day in the sun, while live music and weekend DJs keep spirits high late into the night. Despite New York's fickle seasons, Bungalow Bar is open year-round.

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

An eclectic group of waterfront bars makes up the rest of the top ten, with the East Coast nearly sweeping the category. Runner-up bar Flora-bama sits on the Alabama and Florida state line, hosting a legendary scene with five stages for live music, specialty frozen cocktails, and a build-your-own burger bar. 

View this post on Instagram

The Sunshine State claimed four other spots in the top ten. Daytona Beach’s OceanDeck Restaurant and Bar came in at number four, followed by Miami’s Joia Beach at number six, Lauderdale-by-the-Sea’s Aruba Beach Cafe at number eight, and Kiki’s Sandbar in Little Torch Key at number nine. 

New Jersey’s legendary shoreline also made a strong showing on the USA Today list. The PigDog Beach Bar in Wildwood snagged third place for its top-tier barbecue and 32-ounce Bloody Mary garnished with an appetizer sampler. Donovan’s Reef Beach Bar in Sea Bright, the number five best beach bar, has been serving since 1976, while Cape May’s beloved Harry’s Ocean Bar & Grill rounded out the list at number ten. 

Related: This is the Best South Florida Beach Getaway Right Now—And It's Not Miami

The final state to make the list was South Carolina, thanks to the Tiki Hut at Beach House on Hilton Head. It’s the island’s only beachfront live music venue, known for a frozen bourbon drink made with raspberry puree and its laidback ambiance.

Walmart's 'Beautiful' $32 Outdoor Area Rug Has a 'Pretty' and 'Vibrant' Reversible Design

Mon, 06/01/2026 - 3:15pm

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

If your deck, patio, or front porch could use a little sprucing up before summer officially sets in, Walmart has a new home decor deal that's worth taking a look at. The bestselling Findosom Outdoor Area Rug is a stylish, reversible option that adds a fun pop of color to any space, and it's currently on sale for over 35% off in all three shades. 

Originally $50, the popular rug is now available for just $32 in the 6-by-9-foot size. It comes in three versatile colors: black, dark blue, and teal, all of which feature a pretty woven pattern that catches the eye no matter where you place it. You can also shop it in three other sizes at varying prices: 5 by 8 feet, 8 by 10 feet, and 9 by 12 feet. 

Findosom Outdoor Area Rug, $32 (was $50) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Made of recycled plastic straw, this rug is waterproof, tear-resistant, and built to last. Despite its durable construction, it feels soft underfoot and is gentle enough to lay on decks or grass without causing damage. The reversible design gives you two stylish looks in one, allowing you to alternate between the brighter color or the contrasting lighter shade whenever you want to switch things up. 

Thanks to its machine-washable design, maintenance is also a breeze. To keep the rug looking like new, simply shake it off or rinse it with a hose, and let it air dry. The breathable, quick-drying material makes it easy to clean, while the heat-treated edges prevent fraying or pilling. Use it on a deck, under lounge chairs, or in a garage, or fold it up and take it with you while camping or taking an RV trip. 

Related: Walmart's 'Lovely' $11 Solar Hummingbird Wind Chime Is 'Truly Beautiful' at Night

The Findosom area rug is a bestseller for a reason, with over 250 five-star ratings from Walmart shoppers. Multiple reviewers praised its "pretty" and "vibrant" design, with one noting that "it makes my patio come alive." Others called it "pretty," "durable," and "great for indoors or outdoors," adding that the waterproof, quick-dry material makes it "very easy to clean."

Shop More Deals

Give your outdoor space the perfect finishing touch with this stunning reversible area rug. It's stylish, easy to maintain, and comes in three vibrant colors that will liven up any porch, garden or patio. Snag one for over 35% off before this limited-time flash deal ends at Walmart.

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.

Anna Kendrick To Direct Netflix Adaptation of a 2017 Bestseller That Exploded on TikTok

Mon, 06/01/2026 - 3:09pm

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo is a 2017 bestselling novel by Taylor Jenkins Reid. The story, which was nominated for a Goodreads Choice Award for Best Historical Fiction, is about a Hollywood actress telling her life story, which includes details about her seven marriages.

Jenkins Reid, who also wrote Daisy Jones & The Six, is attached as an executive producer for the film adaptation. Deadline has also recently announced that Anna Kendrick will be directing.

Kendrick made her directorial debut in 2023 with Woman of the Hour, a crime thriller based on a true story. It told the tale of a serial killer who appeared as a contestant on the show, The Dating Game, in 1978.

Related: 1902 Mystery Named One of the Greatest Classic Novels Under 200 Pages Can Be Read in One Sitting

When speaking about her experience directing for the first time in a 2024 interview, Kendrick said, “I think for a long time, in my conscious mind, I was very much holding onto the belief that being a director just takes too much out of you. Subconsciously, I think I was sort of protecting myself because it feels really vulnerable to want to do something and say it out loud or even acknowledge it to yourself. So it was something that was under the surface for a long time, but maybe I just didn't feel brave enough to admit it until this movie came along.”

When asked what she would like to direct in the future, she said, "I’ll admit I am sort of surprised by the darkness I'm finding myself drawn to. Of the scripts that I've been sent to look at, the ones I've really liked seem really diverse, but I did notice that there's this underpinning in each of them of a man who is very unwell and the story outlines the repercussions of his actions on everyone around him. Then there's definitely part of me that's drawn to the lighthearted stuff. I would love it if somebody sent me a comedy that I can just fall in love with.”

A release date for The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo has not yet been announced, but it will be streaming on Netflix.

Who Won ‘Jeopardy’ Today? (June 1, 2026) Plus, the Final Jeopardy Answer

Mon, 06/01/2026 - 3:00pm

There are three things guaranteed in the world today: Death, taxes, and Jeopardy! being on. Believe it or not, the iconic game show has been on the air for over 60 years (though the modern incarnation we know and love technically debuted in 1984). Under the watchful eye of Ken Jennings (who himself was a record-breaking champion), Jeopardy! puts three people's trivia skills and reflexes to the ultimate test. And so many of the greats to grace those podiums started by simply watching the show as it aired on weekdays, as millions have done for over half a century.

Here's a spoiler-filled recap of who won Jeopardy! today, plus the answer to Final Jeopardy.

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

Who won Jeopardy today?Peter McFerrin

Chris D'Angelo's impressive 8-game winning streak comes to an end after a brutal Final Jeopardy stumped all three contestants. Hefinished his run with 8 wins and $194,201 in total earnings, securing a spot in the 2026 Tournament of Champions.

McFerrin won his first game with $18,999 daily total.

Who are the Jeopardy contestants today?Chris D'Angelo

Chris D'Angelo is a content manager from Washington, D.C.

Camryn Bell

Camryn Bell is a museum educator originally from Minnetonka, Minnesota.

Peter McFerrin

Peter McFerrin is an energy industry professional from Corona, California.

Related: Sam Heughan Surprises ‘Jeopardy!’ Fans With an ‘Outlander’ Category — Can You Answer the Clues?

What was Final Jeopardy today?

Final Jeopardy today was in the category "IDIOMS & EXPRESSIONS."

The clue: "In the 1830s cities on the Mississippi banned cardsharps, creating more of these, now meaning one who takes big risks."

The answer: "What are riverboat gamblers?"

Nobody answered Final Jeopardy correctly. McFerrin survived thanks to a textbook smart wager. Going in, he amassed $20,700, wagered just $1,701, the exact amount needed to cover a correct response from D’Angelo, who came in with $11,200 and wagered everything, bringing his total game score to $0 and ending his 8-day streak.

Meanwhile, Bell, who came in with $10,200, also wagered everything and ended the game with a final score of $0. 

McFerrin will be back on Tuesday for his second attempt at a win.

Did you get the answer? Sound off in the comments!

When is Jeopardy on next?

Jeopardy! will come back on Tuesday, June 2, with a new episode. Check your local listings to find out when to watch

Where is Jeopardy streaming?

Jeopardy! is available on both Hulu and Peacock. Subscribers can enjoy watching new episodes the next day, as well as access a vault of many classic episodes to enjoy at a moment's notice.

Related: Ken Jennings Reveals If 'Celebrity Jeopardy!' Questions Are Easier

'Am I Demisexual?' 14 Signs You Might Identify With This Sexuality

Mon, 06/01/2026 - 3:00pm

Navigating relationships and romantic attraction can be mystifying terrain, full of questions and gray areas when it comes to our orientations, interests and boundaries. If you've ever felt a disconnect with friends who eagerly pursue hookups, or if you’ve found yourself needing an emotional foundation before you feel a sexual spark, you may be curious if the term "demisexual" resonates.

Visibility and understanding around demisexuality have expanded in recent years, though many still find it an ambiguous identity. This guide aims to illuminate what it means to be demisexual, key signs and indicators that you may relate to this end of the orientation spectrum, and vital insights from human sexuality experts to contextualize the experience.

Related: What Does Bisexual Mean? What You Should Know About the ‘Invisible Majority’ of the LGBTQ+ Community

What Does 'Demisexual' Mean?

"Demisexual means needing an emotional connection with someone before having sex with them," explains sex therapist Jackie Golob, founder of Shameless Therapy. "Honestly, for heterosexual people who haven't explored their sexuality more, I wouldn't be shocked to see demisexuality more common in the future. A lot of times, people want to have sex, but have that emotional connection with people first."

Essentially, demisexuality refers to only experiencing sexual attraction after forming an emotional bond. While this may sound common, what sets demisexuals apart is that they often lack sexual interest entirely until that closeness has developed. 

According to sexologist Rhiannon John, "This emotional bond doesn't necessarily need to be love or romance but could be friendship."

She adds that demisexuality is a spectrum—some form intellectual connections, others bonds of kindness and care. The key thread is the emotional foundation that must precede romantic interest.

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

How Do You Know if You're Demisexual?

If you're wondering whether you fall under the demisexual label, sex and relationships expert Zach Zane offers this tip: "If you’re someone who doesn’t like having casual or anonymous sex and prefers to get to know the person before having sex, you may be demisexual."

Relationship therapist and psychotherapist at The Racial Equity Therapist, Domenique Harrison notes some other signs: "Demisexual folks rarely experience sexual attraction and may have very few examples of sexual and romantic feelings to reflect on in their life... They rarely initiate conversations about sex and don’t often have thoughts, feelings, and actions involving sex that match their peers."

Zane clarifies that "you shouldn't let demisexual define your behavior; rather, it should be reflective of your behavior." The label reflects overall patterns rather than absolutes, so don’t let yourself be limited by what’s considered “normal” for demisexuals.

Related: 17 LGBTQ+ Pride Flags and What They Each Represent

14 Signs You Might Be Demisexual1. You Need To Bond Mentally

Zane shares that if you need to have an intellectual conversation with someone before feeling a spark of attraction, unable to connect sexually without a mental bond first, you may be demisexual.

2. Casual Sex Lacks Appeal

"The idea of causal or anonymous sex doesn’t arouse or excite you sexually," says Zane.

3. Observing Attractiveness Stops There

"While you can acknowledge a stranger is attractive, you don’t find yourself fantasizing about having sex with them," says Zane.

4. Emotional Connection Is a Main Priority

"You need to feel emotionally connected and safe with someone before you have any desire to have sex with them," Zane explains. Safety enables vulnerability.

5. You're Not Into "Friends With Benefits"

"Friends-with-benefits arrangements or having sex early on in a relationship doesn’t feel appealing,” explains Harrison. “Sex and instances of sexual and romantic intimacy are not high on the list of importance."

Related: What Does 'Pansexual' Mean? Plus, How Pansexuality Differs from Bisexuality

6. Your Romantic Feelings Take Time

"Your feelings for someone may take longer to develop, and your emotional connection isn’t rushed," says Harrison.

7. Attraction Can Also Take Time

Attraction comes through shared experiences over time, says Harrison. It's not instant nor fleeting.

8. You Likely Lack a "Type"

Harrison explains that this can be because "emotional bonds define attractions more" than appearances.

9. Non-Sexual Connections Get Prioritization Early On

Conversations and common interests thrive first.

10. Physical Touch Requires Extra Comfort

As Harrison says, "Demisexual folks may need time to warm up to physical touch and touch intimacy."

11. You Don't Need To Talk About Certain Topics

11. You may have felt isolated among sexually-vocal peers, or that you needed to mask your discomfort, Harrison explains. Their constant sex chat felt foreign.

12. Crushing on Strangers Is Rare 

Harrison states that demis "very rarely, if ever, develop crushes on strangers."

13. Romantic Attraction Has Been Rare Throughout Your Life

You have few examples of romantic attraction to reflect on over your life so far, says Harrison. These fleeting moments stand out given their rarity.

14. This Label Has Brought Clarity

The demisexual label brought you clarity after lifelong confusion, shares Harrison. Finally, an explanation clicked for your atypical attractions.

Just like with most labels, how one person identifies might not be what another person with similar feelings or experiences identifies with. There can be a million reasons why one of these points hits home with you, but it might not be based in demisexuality (trauma, confusion, sexual repression and taught behaviors are just some reasons behind a lack of interest). So if a lot of these points are relatable to you, but you don’t feel like demisexual is a good fit, that’s okay!

As The Trevor Project’s website reads, “demisexual” can fall under the asexual umbrella, but so do other labels. And if you identify as demisexual but don’t feel like asexual describes you either, that’s okay too. Sexuality is very personal and the most important person to understand one’s identity is themselves.

Related: 175 Sex Questions To Ask Your Partner or Friends

Sources
  • Jackie Golob, sex therapist, founder of Shameless Therapy.
  • Rhiannon John, sexologist.
  • Zach Zane, sex and relationships expert.
  • Domenique Harrison,relationship therapist and psychotherapist at The Racial Equity Therapist.

Racing Community Hit With Another Tragedy As Former Indianapolis 500 Driver Dies at 56

Mon, 06/01/2026 - 2:42pm

The racing world has lost another talented driver following the death of Indianapolis 500 competitor Rick Treadway, who died on Saturday, May 30, at the age of 56 after suffering a motorcycle accident.

The tragic news was announced in a press release from the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

Treadway, an Indiana native, started the 2002 Indianapolis 500. He made his INDYCAR SERIES debut in 2001 at Kentucky Speedway, and his final start was at the Texas Motor Speedway in 2002. His best finish was fifth in Texas during the 2021 season.

This comes after the death of NASCAR legend Kyle Busch, who died at the age of 41, with his family later announcing he passed from “pneumonia [that] progressed into sepsis.” Busch was hospitalized shortly before and died just days before he was set to race in the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway.

Following the news of Treadway's passing, many in the racing community paid tribute.

"Sad news hearing Rick Treadway passed away last Saturday. Our condolences go out to my former @IndyCar team owner Fred Treadway, Janice and Brian Treadway. Rick was a fun, crazy, humble, wild and brave personality RIP Ricky We are thinking of you Treadway family," two-time Indy 500 winner Arie Luyendyk posted on X.

"Really sad to see this news today. If you listen to@SpeedStreetPod you know how much this name means to a certain segment of our show. RIP Ricky. We’ll keep doing our #indy500 driver research in your honor!," NASCAR driver Conor Daly shared.

"Very sorry to hear of the passing of Ricky Treadway. A really personable guy who loved signing autographs for fans. He had 11 @IndyCar starts and will be missed. Condolences to his family and many friends," one person commented.

"Oh man!! Great guy!! Race in peace, Rick!!," another person wrote.

Michael Kors Outlet Has 'Super Cute' Espadrille Sandals in 3 Colors That Feel Like 'Walking on a Cloud'

Mon, 06/01/2026 - 2:38pm

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

If you’ve been looking for a spring-to-summer sandal that can dress up casual outfits, Michael Kors Outlet has a major sale going on right now. The Richie Signature Logo Platform Espadrille Sandal is currently marked down to $79 from $155, nearly 50% off. It comes in three colors —  vanilla, brown, and powder blush — and it’s available in sizes 5 through 11. 

The Richie sandal is made with logo-print canvas and finished with Michael Kors’ famous “MK” hardware, along with a buckle ankle strap and rubber sole. The upper is 89.4% coated canvas, 9.6% polyester, and 1% polyurethane, with a polyurethane-blend lining. It also features a breezy open-toe design and a 1.5-inch jute heel, which adds some height while still keeping the sandal wearable for day-to-day plans.

Richie Signature Logo Platform Espadrille Sandal, $79 (was $155) at Michael Kors Outlet

Courtesy of Michael Kors Outlet

Shop at Michael Kors Outlet

The platform gives it a little more height than a flat style, while the signature print and hardware make it feel dressier than other basic sandals. Its overall design works perfectly for daytime outfits, travel, dinner, or weekends, and since it comes in three colors, there’s a nice mix of neutral and softer options depending on what you wear most.

One shopper said they feel “like walking on a cloud,” while another wrote, “These shoes are super cute!” A separate reviewer called them their “favorite pair of sandals” and added, “I could wear them all day without my feet hurting.” Someone else wrote that they are “comfortable and stylish” and “will be great for summer.” 

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

These would work well with jeans and a white tank, linen pants and a button-down, or a sundress on vacation. The espadrille texture adds a seasonal touch, and the signature logo-print finish gives them more personality than a plain neutral sandal. 

Shop More Deals

The Michael Kors Richie Signature Logo Platform Espadrille Sandals have over 400 five-star ratings, which proves just how beloved they are among shoppers. If you’ve been wanting a warm-weather sandal that can pair easily with dresses, jeans, and more casual outfits, now is a great time to grab these while they’re still marked down by nearly 50%.

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.

1970s Child Star From a Legendary Music Group Dead at 64

Mon, 06/01/2026 - 2:35pm

Foster Sylvers was a member of the chart-topping R&B group, The Sylvers, who released the iconic song “Boogie Fever" as well as “Fool’s Paradise” and “Hot Line.” As reported by TMZ, Leon Sylvers III revealed that Foster died in hospice after a battle with stage 4 pancreatic cancer. He was 64.

Foster was born on February 25, 1962, in Memphis, Tennessee. He was only 11 when he started his music career, back in 1973. His self-titled debut album was a huge success, with the lead single “Misdemeanor” reaching No. 7 on the Billboard R&B chart.

View this post on Instagram

Later on, Foster joined The Sylvers (which were previously known as Little Angels) along with his brothers and sisters. Overall, there were ten siblings in the family. Nine of them performed in the band at different periods, with only the youngest in the family never performing.

The group disbanded in 1985. This was the same year that the youngest brother, Christopher, died at the age of 18. Their other sibling, Edmund, died in 2004 of lung cancer.

Related:‘M*A*S*H’ Actress Dead of Natural Causes at 93

After news of Foster’s passing broke, his daughter, Erin, posted to her social media to say, "You fought a good fight and ran your race the best you could. I’m happy you’re no longer suffering."

Holly Robinson Peete also posted about the news, admitting that he was her childhood crush. She said, “When I was 13 years old, I got the assignment of a lifetime: interviewing Foster and his siblings from the Sylvers for a show called Kidsworld. They were performing at Magic Mountain in LA and I showed up with a camera crew ready to be a professional journalist. The problem? I was so hopelessly in love with Foster that I completely tanked the interview. I mean, that face was just so ridiculously cute. I couldn’t focus, couldn’t get my questions out, and spent most of the time just staring at him. I was so bad, I ended up getting fired from the assignment. Years later, I had the chance to tell Foster that story, and we laughed about it together. He was gracious, kind, and every bit as charming as my 13-year-old self remembered him to be.”

Despite his success, Foster faced legal troubles after leaving the group. According to Page Six, “Sylvers was convicted of a sex offense in 1994 for sexually assaulting an unconscious woman, and had to register as a sex offender in the state of California.”

Amazon’s 'Light and Airy' $15 Cotton and Linen Top Is 'Breathable' and 'Perfect for Summer'

Mon, 06/01/2026 - 2:30pm

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

If you plan to live in flip-flops, sun hats, and flowy linen pants on vacation, you're going to need some cute tops to toss in your suitcase alongside these staples. To round out your warm-weather rotation, breezy tank tops in cute patterns and fun colors that you can mix and match with the rest of your wardrobe are a must. Right now, Amazon has a summer-ready top on sale for just $15, and shoppers are already scooping it up in multiple colors. 

Normally $20, the Akewei Cotton Linen Tank Top is currently discounted up to 25%, dropping the price to just $15 in five of the 12 available styles. Prices vary by color, but it comes in five solid colors including white, black, khaki, blue, and sky blue, four gingham prints, and three shimmery striped options. 

Akewei Cotton Linen Tank Top, From $15 (was $20) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at Amazon

Made from a blend of 80% cotton and 20% linen, this top was designed to provide exceptional breathability without the scratchy feel of a 100% linen top. It features a flowy, pull-on style with a crew neck and is sleeveless, so it should keep you feeling nice and cool, especially on hot summer days. On the back, a line of decorative buttons adds an elevated touch to an otherwise simple tank top.

Machine-washable on cold, the manufacturer recommends washing this top in a laundry bag and hanging it to dry to help prevent wrinkling. Available in sizes small to XX-large, shoppers said this tank top fits true to size. 

Related: Amazon’s 'Soft' $11 Lounge Set Is 'Perfect for Travel,' and It Comes in 10 Colors

Shoppers raved that the cotton-linen blend fabric is "light and airy," making it a "breathable" choice for warm weather wear. Many reviewers mentioned packing it for trips because it's "perfect for summer vacations," and any wrinkles were easy to smooth out with a quick iron. 

Designed with darts on the front, shoppers said "the cut is flattering," and several customers appreciated the "cute" button detailing down the back of the top. Because this is a shell-style tank with a high neckline, several reviewers said it works great as office wear in the summer paired with a light cardigan or blazer. 

Shop More Deals

You won't want to miss the chance to score the Akewei Cotton Linen Tank Top for just $15 at Amazon ahead of vacation season. Snag this classy and comfortable summer wardrobe staple in your favorite color or print while it's still in stock!

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.

What Does ‘Comphet’ Mean? You Might Have Seen the Term Floating Around the Internet, but It Has a Long History

Mon, 06/01/2026 - 2:30pm

Many terms are used online or in TikTok videos that make you go, "What does that mean?" And if you've ever come across queer TikTok or LGBTQ+ spaces on the internet, there might be a lot more of that (even if you do identify as queer or gay, there's always something out there you might not know).

One term you might have seen and wanted to know more about is "comphet." And contrary to a lot of internet discourse, it applies to more people and sexualities than you might think. 

The term really jumped in popularity with the release of the (sometimes controversial) "Lesbian Masterdoc" in 2018, but it didn't start in the age of the internet. It's actually a pretty complex concept despite the meaning of the word being somewhat straightforward; it's a combination of the words "compulsory heterosexuality," which can be confusing and controversial depending on who you ask.

Read on to find out comphet's meaning, the origin of the term, who it impacts and how to deal with it.

Related: What Is Lesbian Visibility Week? All You Need To Know About Celebrating This Week and Lesbian Visibility Day

What Does 'Comphet' Mean in Simple Terms?

As we just mentioned, the word "comphet" is a shortened version of the term "compulsory heterosexuality." It's the concept that because we're brought up in a patriarchal and heteronormative society, those ideals are forced onto everyone, and we default to heterosexuality even if that's not who we are.

This term was "popularized" by queer feminist, poet and essayist, Adrienne Rich, in her 1980 essay, "Compulsory Heterosexuality and Lesbian Existence." In this essay, Rich shares the idea that because so much emphasis is put on men and heterosexuality, especially for women, it's hard to even explore the idea or possibility of being a lesbian or queer. It was a way to bring forward lesbian visibility while also showing straight women how "heterosexuality as a political institution which disempowers women—and to change it," per Rich's foreword.

Eva Bloom, @whatsmybodydoing on TikTok, a queer sex educator from Toronto, posted a video in 2022 giving a pretty good overview of what 'comphet' means. 

"Comphet is not just a phenomenon experienced by lesbians, it's really experienced by a lot of queer people," they said in the video. "It refers to how in our society, straightness—and cisness—is seen as a default and also enforced like that through different social institutions and conversations among people."

They then give examples of this, like when people see a little girl and immediately start talking about boyfriends and crushes. 

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

What's the History and Origins of Comphet?

As stated above, comphet is a term that focuses on how our society is heterosexual, normalizes heterosexuality and forces an emphasis on heterosexual relationships as the only option, especially for women. This not only leads to the othering of different sexualities and genders but also makes it hard for people to understand what their actual sexuality is because they're so clouded by what we're taught is "normal" or accepted.

Because Rich's essay talks about compulsory heterosexuality from a queer, radical feminist lens, it focuses on women and lesbians, but any gender can experience comphet in their own way, as Bloom said in their TikTok video (more on that later). Even so, women are majorly impacted by this concept, as the essay talks about, just because of the inherent power structure in our patriarchal society.

Rainbow History Class (@rainbowhistoryclass on TikTok) is an educational group that aims to teach LGBTQ+ history that we didn't learn in school; their TikTok is run by co-creators Rudy Rigg and Hannah McElhinney. They posted a video about comphet on TikTok in 2021, where McElhinney shared more of the history of the term. They stated that Rich was making the point that "Heterosexuality is a political institution where attraction to men is assumed innate in all women and relationships between women, sexual or otherwise, are invalidated and erased."

"The institutions by which women have traditionally been controlled—patriarchal motherhood, economic exploitation, the nuclear family, compulsory heterosexuality—are being strengthened by legislation, religious fiat, media imagery, and efforts at censorship," Rich wrote in her 1980 essay.

@rainbowhistoryclass

We’ll do part 2 on how it has evolved 📚 #learnontiktok #tiktokpartner #comphet #lesbiansoftiktok #queerbook

♬ original sound - 🌈 Rainbow History Class 🌈

It's important to note, as Rainbow History Class's video does, that this essay was written about society in the 1970s and 1980s. Critics of Rich and her essay also note that it's very binary, talking about only women and men, without much room for conversation around transgender or nonbinary people (who are impacted and experience comphet, too).

Because of this, the term comphet has evolved to fit queer people today, though the core meaning—that our heteronormative society forces people to choose straightness and cisness as a default—is still part of it. 

Related: What Does the Lesbian Flag Look Like? Here's Why You Might See So Many Variations of It

Comphet and the Lesbian Masterdoc

As we mentioned before, the Lesbian Masterdoc is a pretty popular place for sapphic women and nonbinary people to have seen "comphet" for the first time. The doc was first uploaded online in 2018, written by Angeli Luz (though it was originally posted anonymously). Since then, it has spread widely for those who might be wondering: "Am I a lesbian?"

The doc has received criticism from people who read it as presenting an idea that only lesbians are beholden to an outdated idea of marriage, expectations for women-aligned people and typical gender roles, which isn't true as Bust reported. Others have also noted that, to them, it ignores bisexuality and shares an "all roads lead to lesbianism" way of thinking. Those who do like the Lesbian Masterdoc, though, think that it gives a nuanced approach and doesn't speak for all lesbians or lesbians' experiences and feelings, per Vice.

So, say what you want about the Lesbian Masterdoc and whether you think it aids in lesbians realizing their true selves, but it does give a pretty good rundown of compulsory heterosexuality.

"'Compulsory' is the opposite of 'optional'. 'Compulsory heterosexuality' is exactly what it sounds like - being straight is something our culture tries to force on us," it reads.

It also hits on the reason why a lot of lesbians identify with dealing with comphet; lesbians, unfortunately, exist at an intersection of homophobia and misogyny. This means they get a large dose of "forced" feelings and expected behaviors like marriage and having children with a man.

"This is because compulsory heterosexuality easily ties in with the misogyny that causes women's sexualities and identities to be defined by our relationships with men," Luz, the writer of the Lesbian Masterdoc, told Cosmopolitan in 2021.

The Lesbian Masterdoc goes on to also explain that we've been taught to crave or value male validation, which might confuse a lot of sapphics when it comes to being attracted to men. It could explain why a lesbian might like fictional male characters or has liked men in the past, but doesn't actually want to be with a man in real life now.

Related: Where the 36 Remaining Lesbian Bars Are in America

Is Comphet Only for Lesbians?

Unsplash

As Bloom said in their TikTok video, lesbians aren't the only ones who experience comphet. Lesbians do, though, experience an intense and specific form of comphet, as stated above.

Maybe one of the best and most recent examples of perceived lesbian comphet is heard in queer singer-songwriter Chappell Roan's recent single, "Good Luck, Babe!" The song deals with themes of comphet, and—as many online would argue—specifically in lesbians. Many see it from the perspective of a lesbian or queer woman lamenting about how her current love interest doesn't want to "overcome" the comphet that's stopping them from realizing (or accepting) they're a lesbian.

Roan hasn't spoken directly about whether the love interest in this song is a bisexual woman or a lesbian, but the bridge seems to solidify that it's about a closeted lesbian. The line, "When you wake up next to him in the middle of the night/With your head in your hands, you're nothing more than his wife," saying they're going to regret it, points to someone who doesn't have the potential to be attracted to a man (i.e., most likely a lesbian). But regardless of the sexuality of the song's muse, Roan's "Good Luck, Babe!" is a good example of comphet in pop culture today. The muse is so against claiming their queerness that they'll throw Roan to the side, showing an example of what comphet can look like.

Compulsory heterosexuality can be the reason why a lot of people come out as lesbians later in life and even have families with men because they didn't realize that their "attraction" to men or assumed heterosexuality was just a learned or enforced behavior and not who they actually are.

For some women and non-men, it can be very easy to identify if you're attracted to women. But for others, it can be so hard to realize this because of how forced heterosexuality is in our society; having a same-sex partner as a woman is just not seen as a viable option with the way our society treats lesbians and sapphic relationships. And even if you do realize you like women, it can be even harder to realize you don't like men because, again, it's so ingrained in us to do so.

With all that said, it is important to remember that comphet isn't out here saying bisexual women (or people) don't exist, just that comphet might make it hard for a bisexual woman to realize she's even bi. Comphet is also something that anyone can experience, regardless of gender or sexuality, as Cosmopolitan also pointed out.

Related: What Does Sapphic Mean? The Definition

How To Spot Comphet

As Luz told Cosmopolitan, "When you're trained from childhood to see romantic/sexual relationships with men—and only men—as major life goals, how do you separate that from what ​you​ want?" Therefore, how do you understand if what you're feeling is comphet? How do you know if you're heterosexual, bisexual or lesbian?

NOCD reported there are some ways to figure out if you've been experiencing comphet. Ask yourself if you've ever picked an opposite-gender crush just because everyone else was. Have you ever talked yourself out of queer feelings for another non-man or woman because being gay is weird, abnormal or scary? Have you gone out with men (if you're a woman or non-man) even though you have no desire or interest in them (not the particular man, but just in general)?

"You might feel numb, detached or disengaged when friends or loved ones discuss romantic interest in a heterosexual way, like, for example, a woman feeling dread, dissociation, bodily discomfort, or confusion before, during, or after a romantic, sexual, or physical encounter with a man," Cassidy Dallas, LICSW, a queer therapist and educator, told NOCD. "This similar feeling could come up when discussing dating with friends, and everyone else shares heterosexual experiences."

How To Deal With Comphet

Once you realize that you might be dealing with comphet—or feelings that are a result of comphet—what do you do with that? We've got some ideas to help below.

1. Inspect How You Were Raised and the Lessons You Were Taught

While this isn't a hard-and-fast rule, if you were raised in a pretty strict "Women shall marry men and procreate" type of environment, comphet might be easily (and staunchly) ingrained into your mindset. So if you grew up really religious, in a conservative environment, or had parents who really emphasized the importance of a man and woman marrying, odds are you are probably dealing with comphet in some form, even if you already know you're queer.

2. Journal and Be Honest About Your Feelings

Sexuality, identities, how you see yourself in the world and how you are in relationships, etc. can all be very confusing things to figure out. Making sure to journal it out so you can read through it later and better understand how you're feeling is a good place to start, as Healthnews pointed out. It can also be good to talk it out with friends and read into the concept of comphet more.

3. Gain Community and Talk It Out

On that note, it's also important to create a support group of friends around you and have a good, strong community to lean on. If you're queer, that will also come in handy in more instances than just dealing with comphet. 

Bloom, an award-winning queer sex educator and speaker, has a community they built that deals with comphet and people questioning their sexuality (or who just want support and a queer community), called F–k Comphet Support Club on Patreon. Something like that can be a great place to start, especially if you don't have access to or can't access a queer community in person. 

4. Dig Into Your Feelings and Bring This Up in Therapy

Speaking of talking it out, going to a queer-friendly therapist is maybe one of the best ways to figure out what you're feeling and what it all means. While straight therapists can still help with this topic, seeing an LGBTQ+-friendly therapist can really do wonders if you're questioning your sexuality, feelings about gender and comphet. 

Related: You’ve Likely Heard the Term, but What Does ‘Nonbinary’ Mean?

This U.S. City Has the Best Park System in 2026, According to Data

Mon, 06/01/2026 - 2:25pm

Urban parks are having a moment in the United States. As cities continue investing in walkable green space, waterfront trails and community recreation areas, public parks are playing a bigger role in how Americans live, relax and connect.

A new 2026 ranking from Trust for Public Land takes a closer look at how the 100 most populous cities in the United States stack up when it comes to park access, equity, acreage, investment and amenities. The findings highlight where residents are most likely to live within a 10-minute walk of a park, and which cities are setting the standard for public green space.

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

Washington, D.C., Retains No. 1 Spot in National Park Rankings Washington, D.C.

Photo by Philip Yabut on Getty Images

Washington, D.C., continues to set the standard for urban green space in the United States. According to the 2026 ParkScore index from Trust for Public Land, the nation’s capital has once again been ranked the best big-city park system in the country, marking six consecutive years at the top.

Washington, D.C., offers some of the most recognizable urban parks in the country, including:

  • Rock Creek Park, a 2,700-acre forested escape in the city
  • The National Mall, home to iconic monuments and museums
  • Meridian Hill Park, known for its cascading fountain and historic design
  • Theodore Roosevelt Island, a wooded preserve in the Potomac River
  • The Yards Park, a modern waterfront space in the Capitol Riverfront
  • Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens, known for seasonal water lilies

Related: National Park Service Issues Major Warning to All Visitors, No Matter Which Park You're Visiting

Other Top U.S. Cities for Parks in 2026

While Washington, D.C., leads the rankings, several other cities also earned high marks in the 2026 ParkScore index, reflecting strong investment in public green space nationwide.

The top 10 U.S. park systems are:

  • Washington, D.C.
  • Irvine, California
  • Minneapolis, Minnesota
  • St. Paul, Minnesota
  • Cincinnati, Ohio
  • San Francisco, California
  • Arlington, Virginia
  • Seattle, Washington
  • Portland, Oregon
  • Chicago, Illinois

The ParkScore index is based on advanced geographic analysis that measures real-world accessibility, including barriers like highways or limited entry points. The goal is not just to count parks, but to measure how easily people can actually reach them.

Across all metrics, the 2026 rankings reinforce a clear trend: cities that invest in accessible, well-maintained parks are seeing measurable returns in health, equity and quality of life.

If you're planning a U.S. vacation this summer and parks are a top priority, consider Washington, D.C., or any of the other U.S. cities that made the list.

Related: This Is Officially the Dirtiest, Most Germ-Ridden Surface on a Plane (Eww!)

Netflix Is Quietly Removing Gripping French Crime Drama with Almost-Perfect Rotten Tomatoes Score

Mon, 06/01/2026 - 2:06pm

Licensing agreements run out, and that’s the reason the six-part French thriller, The Forest, is leaving Netflix at the end of the month. You have until June 29, 2026, to watch the series.

Titled La Forêt in French, has been available on Netflix since July 2018, after initially debuting on the Belgian channel, La Une, and then on the French channel, France 3, in 2017. It’s one of those crime thrillers that has sat there quietly, and it’s likely due to licensing agreements that it’s now leaving. 

While Netflix hasn’t officially confirmed, it’s a third-party show, and that usually means the streamer gets shows for a set number of years before the original studios look for other streaming homes.

The Forest follows Samuel Labarthe as Gaspard Decker and Suzanne Clément as Virginie Musso, as they search for a missing teenage girl in the Ardennes forest in Belgium. Her teacher helps the police, as she experienced her own traumatic experience in the exact same forest decades ago.

Decker is a new detective to the area and is leading the investigation surrounded by unfamiliar people. Meanwhile, Musso is a local police officer who knows the people and the forest. Musso also has a direct connection to the missing teenager, Jennifer, as her daughter knew Jennifer.

Delinda Jacobs created the series and wrote every single episode, while Julius Berg directed all six episodes.

The story is told over the course of one season, making it a limited series and a thrilling viewing session. It currently boasts a 95% Rotten Tomatoes score from viewers, with many of them praising the performances from the “unfamiliar players” and being “well written and suspenseful.”

As with any licensed show on Netflix, there is a chance that it will arrive again in the future. There is no confirmed streaming home after it exits Netflix in the United States, so this is your chance to binge-watch. Those who love international crime thrillers are sure to find themselves immediately hooked.

What Does 'Asexual' Mean, Exactly?

Mon, 06/01/2026 - 2:00pm

Asexuality, often referred to as "ace" or "aces," is a sexual orientation characterized by a lack of sexual attraction to others. According to The Trevor Project, asexuality is an umbrella term that exists on a spectrum. And aces "may have little interest in having sex, even though they desire emotionally intimate relationships."

Understanding this orientation and asexuality's meaning involves recognizing the diversity of human sexual orientations and challenging societal assumptions that equate sexual attraction with love and intimacy.

But the more we learn and understand others' experiences, the better allies we can be. 

For many aces, their journeys are complex and nuanced. Since asexuality exists on a spectrum, there are varying experiences and preferences within the community. Some asexual people may identify as "gray-asexual" or "demisexual," for example. Acknowledging and respecting these variations is crucial in fostering a more inclusive understanding of sexuality.

Related: 85 'Happy Pride Month' Wishes To Send to Friends and Family

What Does 'Asexual' Mean in Simple Terms?

It's important to understand that "asexual" is an umbrella term for individuals who experience little to no sexual attraction toward other people of any gender. According to the Cleveland Clinic, "Asexuality can vary in a lot of ways depending on our relationships and how we define our levels of sexual attraction, romantic attraction and aesthetic attraction."

Despite experiencing little to no sexual attraction to others, aces may still experience romantic attraction and form deep, emotional connections. 

Remember, asexuality exists on a spectrum and there are varied ways individuals may identify. Sexual attraction is only one type of attraction, and a person can still be physically or emotionally attracted to someone. This can include engaging in activities like dating, falling in love and getting married.

@abciview

What does being asexual mean to you? #MardiGrasABC #Asexual #LGBT

♬ original sound - ABC iview What Does the Asexual Flag Look Like, and What Do Its Colors Represent?

iStock

The asexual pride flag has four horizontal stripes. From top to bottom, the stripes are black, gray, white and purple. Here is what each stripe means, according to Outright International:

  • Black: asexuality
  • Gray: the gray area between sexuality and asexuality
  • White: non-asexual partners
  • Purple: community

Related: What's the History of the Pride Flag, and What Does Each Pride Flag Color Mean?

What Does 'Aromantic Asexual' Mean?

While some aces may experience romantic attraction, others do not. This is referred to as "aromantic asexual."

According to the Cleveland Clinic, being aromantic means experiencing little to no romantic attraction to other people of any gender.

What Does 'Gray Ace' Mean?

"Gray ace," also referred to as "graysexuality" or "gray-A," are individuals who experience limited sexual attraction. So, they may experience sexual attraction at a very low level or once in a blue moon. 

Related: What Does 'Comphet' Mean? You Might Have Seen the Term Floating Around the Internet, but It Has a Long History

What Are the Signs of Being Asexual?

If you are questioning whether or not you're asexual, you aren't alone. Understanding your own sexuality can be a complex journey—one that isn't always obvious at first. 

If you're currently in a relationship and questioning if you're asexual, The Trevor Project encourages thinking about how you feel about your partner. Reflect on how you feel about them romantically, spiritually and emotionally. Love can safely and happily exist beyond a physical level. 

Other signs you may be asexual include having little to no desire in sexual relations, engaging in sexual relations but not enjoying it and trouble identifying with other sexual orientations. But again, sexuality is different for everyone, and your journey might look different than others. Exploring who you are takes time, and there are resources like The Trevor Project and other organizations or therapists that can help you work through your feelings and thoughts.

Famous People and Celebrities Who Identify as Asexual

There are quite a few celebrities who identify as asexual. Here is a list of some of the most famous ones:

  • Tim Gunn
  • Caitlyn Jenner
  • Erica Mendez
  • David Jay
  • Kim Deal
  • Emily Bronte
  • Emilie Autumn
  • Yasmin Benoit
  • David Archuleta
  • Paula Poundstone

Related: 55 Pride Month Trivia Questions & Answers To Test Your LGBTQ+ Trivia Knowledge & Honor Queer Communities

Legendary ’90s Rocker Announces New Song Amid 2026 Tour

Mon, 06/01/2026 - 1:57pm

Tom Morello just released a new, powerful single on Thursday.

The Grammy-winning musician and former Rage Against the Machine member shared on Instagram on Friday that his newest song, "Adjourn It," is out now on all streaming platforms. Morello originally announced the song on May 15, and says it was inspired by "the persecution of immigrants across the land and the counterforce of a heroic resistance to the rising tide of fascism."

"The song was inspired by 'The persecution of immigrants across the land and the counterforce of a heroic resistance to the rising tide of fascism,'" Morello wrote in his caption. "ADJOURN IT is a 'Freedom Song' of crushing riffs for justice and equality.”

"Adjourn It" is also a collaboration with Morello's 15-year-old son, Roman, on guitar, and System of a Down vocalist Serj Tankian.

"NEW MUSIC! An honor to collaborate with @serjtankian & my son @romanmorello1 on 'ADJOURN IT'!!'" Morello shared in another post on Friday. "Out now EVERYWHERE!!"

View this post on Instagram

Three days after "Adjourn It" was released, Morello posted a video explaining that the song was created in response to DHS and ICE raids in Los Angeles, which had been escalating over the past year.

"The streets of LA were being terrorized by Gestapo-like tactics. Children are being abducted from school, [there is] an absolute reign of terror on our city," Morello shared in a new Instagram reel. "We have to do what we can, while we can, with what we can. With us, that's making music."

View this post on Instagram

Morello, 62, is an American musician and guitarist who founded the iconic rock bands Rage Against the Machine and Audioslave, and had stunts on various bands and groups such as Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band, the supergroup Prophets of Rage and his solo work under the name Nightwatchman. Morello is also known for his socialist political views and activism. Alongside Tankian, the two co-founded Axis of Justice in 2002, a non-profit that airs a monthly program on Pacifica Radio station KPFK (90.7 FM) in Los Angeles.

Currently, Morello is touring with Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band on their arena tour around the United States for selected songs. He is also set to appear at the Sweden Rock Festival and the Download Festival in Derby this month, and perform a solo show at Klub Stodola in Warsaw, Poland, on June 9.

Last Thursday, Morello announced the first-ever The Power to the People Festival, which will take place at the Merriweather Post Pavilion in Columbia, Maryland, on October 3. The headliners and special guests will include Morello, Springsteen, Foo Fighters, Dave Matthews, with performances by The Linda Lindas, Joan Baez, Jack Black, Taylor Momsen, Cyprus Hill and more. Tickets sold out over the weekend.

View this post on Instagram

"Adjourn It" is out now on all streaming platforms, and tickets to Morello's upcoming shows this summer can be found on his official website.

Related: '90s Rock Band Releases New Song For the First Time in 21 Years

‘Heated Rivalry’ Star Issues Emotional Statement as Award-Winning Series Makes History

Mon, 06/01/2026 - 1:53pm

It’s been seven months since Heated Rivalry first premiered on HBO Max, and fans still can’t get enough of the hockey romance series.

At the Canadian Screen Awards on Sunday night, Heated Rivalry set a new record, winning 16 awards out of 18 nominations. Hudson Williams, who plays Shane Hollander in the series, also made history as the youngest person in the Canadian Screen Awards to win the category of Best Lead Performer.

Williams, 25, arrived at the ceremony in a Dolce & Gabbana suit with a white button-up shirt. His girlfriend, Katelyn Larson, arrived with him, wearing a stunning black long-sleeved dress. To make the night even more special, Williams’ parents also walked the red carpet.

"I didn't write a speech, but I do have a little thank-you list," Williams said at the ceremony. "My mom and dad for always believing in me and never letting this dream become something that I shouldn't believe in. My partner Katelyn, love you. Thank you so much for always keeping me stable, 'cause sometimes I'm not.”

E! News reported that Williams also made sure to thank the author of Heated Rivalry, Rachel Reid, showrunner Jacob Tierney, and executive producer Brendan Brady. But Williams gave the biggest thanks to his co-star, Connor Storrie, who plays Ilya Rozanov.

"If I could cut this award down the middle, I would," Williams said. "Because if these gay, yearning little bottom eyes didn't have a big, sexy Russian to feast upon, my performance wouldn't be as good. So, to the honorary Canadian Connor Storrie, I share this award with you."

Williams’ longtime groomer, Aika Flores, posted a series of photos from the ceremony on Instagram, along with a sweet shoutout to the actor.

“Beyond proud of you, H,” Flores said. “Grateful to have witnessed this milestone and so many defining moments alongside you.”

View this post on Instagram

While the plot of Heated Rivalry’s second season is still under wraps, it was announced that filming will begin in August with an expected April 2027 release date.

“There will be more Heated Rivalry on your TVs, like, truly, as soon as humanly possible,” Tierney said.

Taylor Swift Just Confirmed A New Song Ahead of Rumored Summer Wedding

Mon, 06/01/2026 - 1:46pm

Taylor Swift is making it official. The pop princess just confirmed she’ll release a new song in June after intense fan speculation had the internet buzzing. The Life of a Showgirl singer is rumored to be marrying beau Travis Kelce in July, but first she’s gifting fans with new music.

In a social media post shared Monday, Taylor Swift confirmed what fans had been speculating about for days, writing:

View this post on Instagram

“You knew it! My new original song “I Knew It, I Knew You” for Disney and @pixar’s @toystory 5 will be yours on June 5th. I’ve always dreamed of getting to write for these characters who I’ve adored since I was a 5-year-old kid watching the first Toy Story movie. I fell instantly in love with Toy Story 5 when I was lucky enough to see it in its early stages, and I wrote this song as soon as I got home from the screening. Sometimes you just know, right? You can pre-order now exclusively on my site and catch Toy Story 5 in theaters June 19th.”

Swift accompanies the post with a photo of herself among a bed of flowers and a series of Toy Story 5 posters.

Why Taylor Swift Joined the Toy Story Universe

Explaining that she is a longtime admirer of the Toy Story films, Swift noted she grew up watching the original movie as a child. That personal connection played a major role in her decision to contribute to the fifth installment of the franchise.

Swift’s contribution to Toy Story 5 reflects a broader trend of major pop artists contributing original music to animated feature films, where songs often become key emotional anchors within the story.

Swift joins Beyoncé, Justin Timberlake, Ariana Grande, Rihanna, and Sia, all of whom have written music for animated films and/or served as executive producers for an animated film’s soundtrack.

Toy Story 5 is set to hit theaters June 19, 2026. The fifth installment of the beloved Pixar franchise is one of the summer’s most highly anticipated films. The collaboration between Taylor Swift and the Pixar universe brings together one of the biggest names in pop music and one of the most beloved animated film franchises of all time, marking a major cultural crossover moment ahead of the film’s release—and ahead of Swift’s rumored July 2026 summer wedding to Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce.

Swift’s involvement in Toy Story 5 adds another layer of excitement surrounding the next installment of this beloved franchise, while also creating a new generation of Swifties to her music through the film’s soundtrack.

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

Pages

Sullivan Independent News

Sullivan Independent News
411 Scottsdale
Sullivan, MO 63080

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

 

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