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Glenn Close has a good explanation as to why she was recently seen walking with a cane.

In an Instagram video posted Tuesday, October 20, Close revealed that she had a full hip replacement before thanking fans for their concern. She stated that her left hip had been in bad shape.

“I have a cane because I had a complete hip replacement,” she explained. Close said she is focused on keeping herself healthy and ready for the challenges and opportunities ahead. She is still using a cane while she recovers, but reassured viewers, “I’m feeling great.” She also said her family is supporting her and shared that she is looking forward to what comes next. Her caption read, “A needed explanation. Love to all.”

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Fans wished Close well in the comments.

“This is proof that you are even more hip than ever!” one joked.

“❤️❤️❤️ Lots of love to you!!! I can’t wait to see bionic Glenn!!! 🤪 Speedy recovery!!! 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽” another said.

A third said, “Get well soon, cannot wait to see you in Hunger Games ❤️.”

The health update came five days after Close’s cane drew attention during a New York outing. She attended the October 15 opening-night screening of La Bola Negra at NewFest, where she was photographed carrying a cane.

READ MORE: Glenn Close’s Latest NYC Outing Prompts Concern From Fans as She Steps Out With a Cane

Her outfit also caught film fans’ eyes. Close wore a jacket featuring the New York Knights, the fictional baseball team from The Natural, the 1984 sports drama in which she starred opposite Robert Redford.

Close briefly handed her cane to someone nearby while posing for photographers. In comments on footage of the appearance, fans asked what had happened and wondered whether the cane was part of a role. One commenter guessed that she had recently undergone hip replacement surgery, a possibility Close has now confirmed.

Close described the surgery as part of taking care of herself so she can meet the challenges ahead. She said in her new video that her goal is to “keep myself in running order” and be ready for new opportunities. She also thanked her family for being there as she recovers.

She explained she’ll be flying to London on October 26 for the opening of The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping, then returning to New York for All’s Fair. Close plays Drusilla Sickle in the upcoming Hunger Games prequel, set to open in theaters November 20. Hulu lists All’s Fair Season 2, which features Close, for November 4.

Few party decorations make a statement quite like a balloon arch. Whether you’re hosting a baby shower, celebrating a milestone birthday or throwing a graduation bash, one of these colorful creations can turn an ordinary corner into a photo-worthy backdrop. There’s just one little problem: Some cost a small fortune. A friend of mine was hosting a baby shower for her sister, who demanded a very specific balloon arch that came with a $1,200 price tag. Yes, $1,200 American dollars. For balloons! Now, I’m all for making a celebration feel special, but that’s a whole lot of money for something that will deflate and end up in the trash.

If you’ve got the patience to do a little DIY, though, you can get that same big-decor energy without the big-decor bill. And no, you don’t need to be a professional party planner or possess the lung capacity of a competitive swimmer to pull it off. With the right frame and balloons that match your party’s color scheme, you can create a showstopping setup for a fraction of the price. That’s what I call being a budget-savvy host with the most!

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Metal Balloon Arch Set, $15 at Five Below

Five Below

That’s why Five Below’s $15 Metal Balloon Arch has gone viral. It gives you the framework to create your own eye-catching decor without paying an arm and a leg. Of course, you’ll still have to inflate a ton of balloons, but that’s when you call in friends and family for help.

The arch is roughly 78 inches tall and 39 inches wide, so you have plenty of space to create whatever you want. If you want to skip the balloons, you can always add florals, streamers, some drapey fabric—whatever your imagination leads you to make.

Related: Bring a Burst of Cheer to Your Cooking With Aldi’s Sweet 2-Piece Kitchen Essential for Only $4

First-Timer Tips for Working With a Metal Balloon Arch

If you’re putting together a metal balloon arch for the first time, don’t panic—you don’t need a party-planning degree to pull it off. Start by assembling the frame according to the instructions, making sure all the pieces are securely connected and the base is stable. Inflate your balloons in a few different sizes to give the finished arch a fuller, more professional look. And here’s a little tip: Use an electric balloon pump if you have one. Your lungs have better things to do than inflate 100 balloons before guests arrive.

Once your frame is ready, attach the balloons with balloon decorating strips, clips or zip ties, depending on what works best for your setup. Work in small clusters, mixing colors and sizes as you go, and fill in any awkward gaps with smaller balloons.

Finally, secure the arch so it won’t wobble or tip over, especially if your party is outdoors. Give yourself plenty of time to assemble it before guests arrive, then step back and admire your handiwork. At a fraction of the cost of a professionally installed arch, you can absolutely take a bow.

Related: How to Style Aldi’s $15 Oversized Corduroy Shirt Like You Live in Stars Hollow

Two decades after it first brought Jane Austen’s beloved romance to the big screen, Pride & Prejudice is still the period drama fans can’t stop revisiting. The 2005 film starring Keira Knightley and Matthew Macfadyen has just earned a major honor, with Rolling Stone naming it the best Jane Austen adaptation of all time. Directed by Joe Wright, the movie features a star-studded cast, sweeping English countryside views and the kind of romantic tension that makes you want to watch it all over again. And while its love story remains irresistible, there’s another reason this adaptation continues to stand out.

Rolling Stone Names the 2005 Pride & Prejudice the Best Jane Austen Adaptation of All Time

Jane Austen was one of England’s most celebrated novelists, known for her sharp wit, romantic storytelling and keen observations about love, class and the limited choices women faced in polite society. Pride and Prejudice, published in 1813, remains one of her most enduring classics. More than 200 years later, her stories continue to inspire film and television adaptations, as well as new stories.

The 2005 film adaptation of Pride & Prejudice brought Austen’s most famous romance to life with Keira Knightley starring as Elizabeth Bennet and Matthew Macfadyen as the reserved Mr. Darcy. The star-studded cast also includes Donald Sutherland as Elizabeth’s warmhearted father, Judi Dench as Lady Catherine de Bourgh, Rosamund Pike as Jane Bennet, and Jena Malone and Carey Mulligan as the younger Bennet sisters, Lydia and Kitty.

More than an adaptation, Wright’s version of Pride & Prejudice takes viewers into Austen’s world, almost as if they’ve been transported to the English countryside. Instead of confining the film to drawing-room conversations and formal period settings, Wright fills it with movement, natural light and sweeping views of the countryside. Misty fields, windswept landscapes and bustling homes make the story feel lived-in and intimate, rather than like a historical drama watched from a distance.

A Jane Austen adaptation wouldn’t be complete without sizzling chemistry between its leads, and this version doesn’t disappoint. Knightley and Macfadyen give Elizabeth and Darcy’s slow-burning romance an emotional pull, resulting in a film that feels faithful to Austen’s observations about love and class while remaining fresh enough to warrant another watch.

Related: New York Times Readers Name the ‘Ultimate’ Mr. Darcy

Why Pride & Prejudice Still Feels So Magical

Wright uses the landscape as more than a backdrop. He makes the countryside feel alive, as if viewers can feel the morning fog and the cool mist at dusk. The film’s visual style captures the energy of young love, making the English countryside feel like another important character in the story.

The result is an immersive experience that transports viewers directly into Austen’s world. And what a world it is.

Related: This Reese’s Book Club Pick Is Packed With Hidden Literary Easter Eggs From Ann Patchett to ‘’Eleanor Oliphant’

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Nothing feels quite as comforting as soft, plush bedding. At the end of a long day, you almost can’t think of anything but sinking back and enveloping yourself in cozy comfort. That’s even more appealing during the months when temperatures dip and skies grow dimmer. The prospect of hunkering down at home is appealing, especially with something as elegant and warm as the Macy’s Leslie 8-Piece Damask Comforter Set on your bed.

This reversible collection is an exceptional deal, reduced from its usual $100 to just $33 in twin, full, queen, and king sizes for a limited time at Macy’s. It’s not every day you score a massive 67% off eight pieces, but this set gives you everything that you need to give your bed a clean and cohesive look. Now is the perfect time to snap it up for the lowest price of the season during the Macy’s fall sale, which ends Oct. 25.

Leslie 8-Piece Damask Comforter Set, $33 (was $100) at Macy’s

Courtesy of Macy's

Shop at Macy's

The damask fabric is truly exquisite, with an intricate cream paisley pattern woven on a lush taupe backdrop. If you prefer a solid color, simply flip the comforter over to reveal a creamy beige hue. Both sides are restrained, proving that sophisticated styles don’t have to be flashy to have an impact on your bedroom.

What’s especially noteworthy about this set is its incredible versatility. It fits nicely into traditional, contemporary, and transitional spaces alike thanks to its neutral palette. The pattern is subtle, yet it has an ornate quality that sets it apart from other designs. It brims with a sense of regality, so it can easily make your room feel fancier and more polished.

The pieces all come together to create a luxe look that will never go out of style. In addition to the comforter, the set includes a flat sheet, fitted sheet, two pillowcases, two shams, and a bed skirt. Because the tones are so relaxed, the set can be a grounding element in a more colorful room or contribute to a serene space if you prefer a more understated aesthetic.

Related: Martha Stewart’s ‘Warm’ Reversible Chenille Throw Blanket Brims With Country-Cozy Charm for 42% Off

Everything in this collection was designed to stand the test of time, too. The microfiber material is soft and resilient, and you can toss the pieces in the washing machine to keep them pristine. It’s also fade-resistant, so it should maintain its appearance through regular use. It’s truly a year-round set, ideal to layer with a blanket during the cooler months yet still light enough to feel comfortable when the weather is warm.

Shop More Bedding Deals

• Nautica Charcoal Knit Jumbo Pillows 2-Pack, $17 (was $50) at Macy’s
• Nestl Ultra Plush Raschel Mink Blanket, $57 (was $190) at Macy’s
• Arch Studio Waterproof Mattress Pad, $19 (was $60) at Macy’s

It’s rare to find a bed-in-a-bag that offers so much value at such a reasonable price. And because the Leslie 8-Piece Damask Comforter Set is so refined, it has the potential to be a forever favorite! Snap it up now while it’s on sale at Macy’s for a limited time.

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It was an emotional night in the Dancing with the Stars ballroom as the 10 remaining celebrities and their pro partners took to the ballroom floor on Week 6, dancing the Viennese Waltz, Contemporary, or Paso Doble to songs honoring the influential people and places that have shaped their lives for “Dedication Night.”

Co-hosted by Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough, with judges Carrie Ann Inaba, Bruno Tonioli and Derek Hough, the ballroom welcomed back the 10 remaining celebrities and their professional partners as they delivered their heartfelt sixth performance. Joining the judges’ table was special guest judge Kym Johnson, who returned to offer her expert insights. 

Missing from the ballroom was Val Chmerkovskiy, who was suspended for a week due to an inappropriate post he made defending his wife Jenna Johnson against the criticism given her by Carrie Ann Inaba, who had criticized Jenna for an inappropriate lift. Instead, Alan Bersten replaced Val, dancing with Jenna Dewan.

And then, the couple with the lowest combined judges’ scores and America’s votes was eliminated.

Scroll down for our spoiler-filled recap of tonight’s Dancing with the Stars, including who went home and the full scores.

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Who was eliminated on Dancing with the Stars tonight?

NO ONE! Every one was safe on such a special night and the votes will carry over to next week when two couples will go home.

Who finished at the top of the Dancing with the Stars leaderboard tonight?

The highest score of the night went to Amber and Pasha for their Contemporary, getting two 10s – one from Carrie Ann and one from Kym – for a total of 38 points out of a possible 40. Carrie Ann said, “Thank you for delivering it with precision and raw vulnerability. Derek said, “You made us feel something. Incredible dance.” Bruno complimented Pasha on the choreography saying, “Absolutely brilliant the way you set the drama go the choreography.” And Kym called it “beautiful.”

Who finished at the bottom of the Dancing with the Stars leaderboard tonight?

Now that Guillermo Rodriguez and Witney Carson have been eliminated, it will be the first time this season someone else fills this position. It was a four-way tie for the lowest score, so not really a loser of the week. Tatyana & Jan, Jackson & Emma, Conner & Rylee and Tyler & Sharna all earned four 8s from the judges for a total of 32 points out of 40.

Related: How to Vote on Dancing With the Stars Season 35: Live Windows, Limits & 2026 Rules

What were the scores on Dancing with the Stars tonight?

Here are the full scores from tonight’s episode of DWTS:

Ezra & Daniella (Contemporary): Carrie Ann 9, Derek 9, Kym 10, Bruno 9 = 37
Tatyana & Jan (Viennese Waltz): Carrie Ann 8, Derek 8, Kym 8, Bruno 8 = 32
Maura & Mark (Paso Doble): Carrie Ann 8, Derek 9, Kym 9, Bruno 9 = 35
Jackson & Emma (Quickstep): Carrie Ann 8, Derek 8, Kym 8, Bruno 8 = 32
Amber & Pasha (Contemporary): Carrie Ann 10, Derek 9, Kym 10, Bruno 9 = 38
Jenna & Alan (Viennese Waltz): Carrie Ann 10, Derek 9, Kym 9, Bruno 9 = 37
Harry & Jenna (Foxtrot): Carrie Ann 9, Derek 9, Kym 9, Bruno 9 = 36
Conner & Rylee ( Viennese Waltz): Carrie Ann 8, Derek 8, Kym 8, Bruno 8  = 32
Tyler & Sharna (Contemporary): Carrie Ann 8, Derek 8, Kym 8, Bruno 8 = 32
Julia & Ezra (Contemporary): Carrie Ann 9, Derek 9, Kym 9, Bruno 9  = 36

Who’s left this season on Dancing with the Stars? Tatyana Ali and Jan Ravnik  Tyler Cameron and Sharna Burgess  Jenna Dewan and Val Chmerkovskiy  Ezra Frech and Daniella Karagach  Amber Glenn and Pasha Pashkov  Maura Higgins and Mark Ballas  Jackson Olson and Emma Slater  Harry Shum Jr. and Jenna Johnson  Julia Stiles and Ezra Sosa  Connor Wood and Rylee Arnold 

Season 35 of DWTS airs Tuesday nights at 8 p.m. ET/PT and is simulcast LIVE across both ABC and Disney+. Streams next day on Hulu.

Next, Dancing with the Stars Themes for Season 35 Revealed

Holiday entertaining often comes down to the little things people notice once they settle in. A thoughtfully folded napkin, a favorite song playing nearby or a colorful drink at each place setting can make a gathering feel special without adding much work to the host’s evening.

That is where a small seasonal swap can make a difference. Instead of buying an entirely new collection of plates and serving pieces, changing one everyday essential can give the table a fresh personality while keeping the rest of the setup familiar.

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Pandex 14-Ounce Holiday Icon Glasses, Set of 4, $24.99 at Costco

Costco

Costco’s Pandex 14-Ounce Holiday Icon Glasses bring that approach to drinkware. Priced at $24.99, the collection features a candy cane, gingerbread man, Christmas tree and wrapped gift, with a different seasonal design on each glass.

Related: Costco’s Cozy New Slippers Are Ridiculously Comfortable and Perfect for Winter

A Festive Detail Guests Can Claim

The mixed designs give everyone a favorite to choose from. At a four-person gathering, assigning each guest a different motif could also help distinguish drinks when conversation moves from the dining table to the living room.

Each glass holds 14 ounces, providing room for a chilled punch, cranberry mocktail or sparkling water with a citrus garnish. Costco lists the dimensions as 3.45 inches in diameter and 3.9 inches tall. The glasses are handcrafted, so small differences in appearance are part of the collection rather than a promise of identical pieces.

For an uncomplicated table, let the drinkware supply the playful detail. White dishes, green napkins and a simple centerpiece can provide a backdrop without competing with the holiday motifs. The same glasses could also brighten a casual lunch of leftover sandwiches during Christmas week.

Practical Care for the Entertaining Season

Made from soda-lime glass, the set is dishwasher-safe, making cleanup straightforward after guests head home. Costco says not to microwave the glasses or use them for boiling-hot liquids. Wash them before their first use, too.

The four-piece set costs about $6.25 per glass. It could make a useful host gift alongside a bottle of sparkling juice or a favorite drink mixer, especially for someone who enjoys seasonal table settings.

Related: Hobby Lobby’s Festive Doormat Is an Adorably Easy Way to Make Your Front Door Stand Out for Less Than $10

John Goodman won’t be joining Roseanne Barr in her new sitcom.

Barr revealed that her son asked the actor to make a cameo in Meemaw: A Modern Day Fable, but Goodman turned down the invitation.

“My son called Goodman and asked him to do a cameo on Meemaw and he declined,” the 73-year-old told The Hollywood Reporter during a wide-ranging interview about the new series and her career, which was shared on Tuesday, October 20.

The exchange came as Barr discussed her relationship with Goodman and Laurie Metcalf, her former Roseanne co-stars. Asked whether they had been like a family, Barr replied, “I did too.” She said she is no longer in contact with either actor. “Nobody is more brokenhearted than me,” she added, saying she chooses to remember the fun and good times.

Goodman played Dan Conner, Barr’s husband on Roseanne, which ran from 1988 to 1997 before returning for a revival in 2018. ABC canceled the revival after Barr posted an offensive tweet about former Obama adviser Valerie Jarrett. The franchise continued as The Conners, with Goodman and much of the ensemble cast, for seven seasons.

READ MORE: Roseanne Barr Reveals Surprising Reason Behind Her Controversial 2018 Tweet

Barr’s new project is a self-financed, single-camera sitcom inspired by her life in Texas. She plays the matriarch of a mixed-race family of preppers who runs into trouble while trying to raise money for her granddaughter’s bat mitzvah. Barr described the character as “a really wacky old lady,” and said, “I’m a prepper,” like the character.

The cast includes Drea de Matteo as Barr’s daughter, Omar Gooding as her son-in-law, and Randy Quaid as her romantic interest. Barr said she had fun making the series and is now looking for a distributor. So while Meemaw has been filmed, it doesn’t yet have a network or streaming home.

Barr also discussed trying to get Elon Musk’s attention about the show. “I don’t know why he hasn’t called me or returned my calls,” she revealed. She added that, of all people, she thought she was the person Musk should call. So far, though, Barr has not heard back.

The NBA is back, baby! And while basketball fans are gearing up for not one, not two, but three season-opening games, there’s one New York Knicks player who’s entering the season with a brand-new title: husband! Karl-Anthony Towns officially tied the knot with his longtime love, Jordyn Woods, this August.

If you’ve been following their relationship, then you know she became his good luck charm long before he helped lead his team to win the 2026 NBA Championship.

But don’t get it twisted, Woods may be married to one of the league’s biggest stars, but she’s been making moves and headlines in the industry before she became a WAG (a term coined for the “wives and girlfriends” of famous athletes).

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JULY 15: (L-R) Karl-Anthony Towns and Jordyn Woods attend the 2026 ESPY Awards at David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Center on July 15, 2026 in New York City. (Photo by Mike Coppola/Getty Images)

From famous friendships and her modeling career to fashion ventures and more, here’s everything you need to know about Jordyn Woods:

How did Karl-Anthony Towns and Jordyn Woods meet?

It’s your classic friends-to-lovers meet-cute.

Towns and Woods met in 2017 through mutual friends in Los Angeles. In fact, Woods told Vogue that the two bonded over a competitive game of Uno. The two developed a close friendship over the years, and their relationship eventually became romantic in 2020. And in standard Gen Z fashion, to reveal just how serious they were about each other, they made things Instagram official in September 2020. Woods and Towns have been going strong ever since.

Their bond only strengthened as they leaned on one another through some incredibly difficult moments. Woods lost her father, John, to cancer in 2017, while Towns’ mother, Jacqueline Cruz-Towns, died from complications of COVID-19 in April 2020. Both dealing with the loss of a parent, the two were able to support each other through the good times and the bad.

“You always pray you’re going to pick the right woman for you, and I know I did in my fiancée,” Towns said. “It’s crazy, when [my mom] passed, there was so much turmoil in my life. Funny enough, my fiancée was the one who was a friend at the time, was the only person I got to call before I had to go out there and say bye to her at the hospital.”

View this post on Instagram When did Karl-Anthony Towns and Jordyn Woods get married?

After almost six years together, Towns popped the question on Christmas Eve 2025 during a romantic rooftop proposal in NYC. The couple officially said, “I do” in a civil ceremony on August 11, 2026, before celebrating with family and friends at a lavish Malibu wedding on August 15.

The term “star-studded” is thrown around in Hollywood all the time, but their wedding guest list was truly stacked with celebrities. It included, but definitely wasn’t limited to, her longtime close friend Kylie Jenner, Timothée Chalamet, Michael B. Jordan, Justin and Hailey Bieber, Olandria, Ben Stiller, Teyana Taylor, Gayle King, Jada Pinkett Smith, Willow Smith, and Jaden Smith (who served as a “bridesman” for Jordyn), and several of Towns’ Knicks teammates and their wives.

Woods looked breathtaking in custom Danielle Frankel wedding gowns (that’s right, plural), while Towns kept things classic in a black tuxedo.

View this post on Instagram How old is Jordyn Woods?

Woods is 29 years old. She was born on Sept. 23, 1997, making her a Libra, and was raised in Los Angeles. She’s the second oldest of four children. Her siblings include her older brother, Joshua, and her two younger siblings, John, and Jodie, who you might’ve seen on the new Netflix reality series, Calabasas Confidential.

Woods and her mother, Elizabeth, are extremely close. Elizabeth is a talent and brand manager, executive, photographer, and president of Woods Management Group. She was married to sound engineer John Woods (who worked on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air) until he passed from cancer in 2017.

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – NOVEMBER 14: (L-R) Jordyn Woods, Elizabeth Woods, and Jodie Woods attend an exclusive event organized by IWC Schaffhausen and Mercedes-AMG at “Speed City” on November 14, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Ahead of the Grand Prix, Speed City is an outdoor desert camp and entertainment venue taking over the famous Speedvegas racetrack. (Photo by Phillip Faraone/Getty Images for IWC Schaffhausen) What does Jordyn Woods do for a living?

Our girl is booked and busy! Woods is a model, entrepreneur, fashion designer, and content creator.

She began making a name for herself in the fashion industry as a curve model, working with brands including ASOS, Aerie, and Good American. She also walked the runway for Christian Siriano and Lane Bryant. In 2018, Woods launched SECNDNTURE, a size-inclusive activewear brand, before expanding her business portfolio with additional style projects on the side. Throughout her career, Woods has also been vocal about body confidence and the importance of embracing different body types in the fashion industry. As a curve model and brand owner, she’s used her platform to advocate for greater size inclusivity and encourage women to feel confident in their own skin.

She’s also the founder of Woods by Jordyn, a clothing and accessories brand that’s become a major part of her entrepreneurial journey. In 2026, she took on another role as chief creative director of beauty brand Glosslab. Woods and Towns also spoke on a panel together at this year’s Culture Con to talk about “the real work behind business: starting before you’re ready, chasing big goals while staying grounded, and leading with people first—always focused on delivering the best experience.”

And unless you’ve been living under a rock, then you’ve probably heard about the lucky orange purse she would wear to his games…the same one worn when they won the championship. Yes, that was her brand. Woods showed off various pieces from her collections at the majority of the games.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JUNE 18: Jordyn Woods attends a championship celebration and Key to the City ceremony at City Hall Plaza after a ticker-tape parade honoring the team’s NBA Finals victory in New York City on June 18, 2026. (Photo by The Hapa Blonde/GC Images) Are Jordyn Woods and Kylie Jenner still friends?

Long before Woods became a staple at Knicks games, she was widely known for being Kylie Jenner’s best friend.

The two became friends in middle school after being introduced through Jaden Smith. Jordyn and the Smith family grew up with each other from infancy, after her dad met Will Smith on the set of The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air and became close friends. Jordyn and Jenner’s friendship eventually led to Woods making appearances on Keeping Up With the Kardashians and the 2017 reality series Life of Kylie.

However, things took a dramatic turn in 2019 when Woods became involved in a highly publicized controversy surrounding Tristan Thompson, who was dating Jenner’s sister, Khloé Kardashian, at the time. Woods later addressed the situation during an emotional appearance on Jada Pinkett Smith’s Red Table Talk, explaining that Thompson had kissed her but denying that anything further happened.

The fallout put a strain on her friendship with Jenner, but the two eventually reconnected. In 2023, Jenner confirmed that they’d maintained contact over the years, they appeared in TikToks together, and by 2026, she was among the famous guests celebrating Woods’ wedding.

PARIS, FRANCE – JUNE 21: Jordyn Woods and Kylie Jenner attend the Louis Vuitton Menswear Spring/Summer 2019 show as part of Paris Fashion Week on June 21, 2018 in Paris, France. (Photo by Chesnot/WireImage)

From navigating public controversies to building her own businesses and finding love, Woods has certainly come a long way. With a new chapter as Mrs. Towns officially underway, it’s safe to say she’s continuing to write her own story, and it’s been amazing to watch!

Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups are now one of America’s best-known chocolate treats, but they started as a small family business run by a man who was simply trying to make ends meet. 

Harry Burnett (H.B.) Reese began making candy in his basement in the 1920s, never knowing that his chocolate and peanut butter creations would eventually become a household name.

Born on May 24, 1879, in Pennsylvania, Reese grew up in a farming family. He tied the knot in 1900 and eventually had 16 children. With such a large family to support, he took on a variety of jobs, working as a butcher and factory worker, among other positions.

In 1917, Reese spotted an advertisement for a job on a dairy farm owned by Milton S. Hershey, the founder of the Hershey Chocolate Company. He took the position in Hershey, Pennsylvania, and spent several years working on the farm before moving to the company’s chocolate factory. 

That experience introduced Reese to the chocolate business and inspired him to try making his own candy. He began experimenting with recipes in his basement, using fresh ingredients and plenty of Hershey’s chocolate. Some of his early creations were even named after his children. 

By the 1920s, Reese’s homemade candies were selling well enough that he decided to turn his side project into a full-fledged business. He established the H.B. Reese Candy Company and continued developing new confections.

Los Angeles, Ca. A Reese’s cup for an illustration about the anatomy of a sugar rush.

Rick Loomis/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images

Reese’s biggest breakthrough came in 1928 when he began making chocolate cups filled with peanut butter. Originally known as “penny cups,” the treats cost just one cent each.

Before long, Reese was supplying local stores with five-pound boxes of his peanut butter cups, expanding his business beyond individual sales. As demand grew, Reese was able to leave his job at the Hershey factory and focus on his company. 

His business continued to grow, but World War II created new challenges. Shortages of ingredients and other supplies forced him to scale back production of many of his candies. He decided to focus on peanut butter cups, which had become his best-selling product. 

Sadly, Reese didn’t live to see just how successful his signature treat would become. He died of a heart attack in 1956, just days before his 77th birthday. His family continued running the company after his death. 

In 1963, six of his sons agreed to sell the H.B. Reese Candy Company to Hershey for $23.5 million. After the acquisition, Reese’s continued to expand under Hershey’s ownership.

The original chocolate-and-peanut-butter combination inspired a wide range of variations, from Big Cups and miniature versions to white chocolate and dark chocolate options. Today, the Reese’s lineup includes everything from Reese’s Pieces and cookies to Reese’s Puffs cereal, proving that the peanut butter cups were just the beginning. 

Related: In 1960, O.D. and Ruth McKee Put Their 4-Year-Old Granddaughter’s Picture on a Snack Cake Box; Little Debbie Became a Billion-Dollar Brand

Morgan Wagner and her horse, Endo, grew up together. When they met, Wagner was 13 years old and the Appaloosa foal was only a few months old.

“I first met Endo on my grandma’s farm when my family and I moved up from California to Oregon,” Wagner recalled years later in an interview with Guinness World Records.

Wagner’s grandmother told her she could choose any of the foals at the farm for her own.

“Endo has a big personality, that’s why I picked him out of all the babies my grandma had,” Morgan explained. “He thinks he’s the greatest horse in the world and he wants everybody to know that.”

Wagner and Endo learned about horseback riding together, mastering techniques like trotting and dressage. It was when Endo was eight years old that he developed a painful condition known as equine recurrent uveitis, also known as moon blindness or periodic ophthalmia, which is the leading cause of blindness in horses worldwide.

Wagner and Endo’s veterinarian tried everything they could to relieve his pain, but he kept getting worse. After his right eye ruptured, Wagner was forced to make the difficult decision to have it removed. Not long after, the same thing happened to his left eye, which also needed to be removed.

“I didn’t know how Endo would handle blindness. That was something that we just had to try and see how it went,” Wagner said, adding, “I just hoped he would be happy eating in his stall without pain, so we started there.”

At first, Endo was too afraid to leave his stall.

“He was very scared in the beginning, so I took him for walks around the barn and then moved on to walks around the property,” said Wagner. “Everything in small steps.”

From small steps to great leaps, literally: Thanks to Wagner’s patience and encouragement, Endo started jumping and trotting and doing everything he did before he lost his sight.

“Each record was something Endo already knew. We just had to practice and fine-tune it,” Wagner said. “He learned to jump again after going blind because he competed in a discipline that required upper-level riding and obstacle work, and in that discipline, he became national champion at the highest level.”

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On Oct. 29, 2022, “Endo the Blind” achieved three Guinness World Record titles: Highest free jump by a blind horse (3 ft 5.73 in); most flying changes by a horse in one minute (39); and fastest time for a blind horse to weave five poles (6.93 sec).

Wagner hoped Endo’s story would inspire other owners of horses with disabilities.

“Some advice for people with blind horses that are scared or confused on what they should do is to just take it step by step,” she said. “Don’t have big goals, just what your horse can do, reward, and try a little bit more next time.”

Earlier this year, following a series of health issues including a heart murmur and Cushing’s disease diagnosis, Endo died at the age of 26.

“Thank you for loving him along with me,” Wagner wrote on Instagram.

Related: Olympic Figure Skating Legend, Born With Clubfoot, Was 20 Years Old When She Won the Gold

Scorpio season 2026 invites every zodiac sign to look beneath the surface, reconsider their priorities, and get honest about their innermost psychological motivations. From October 23 to November 22, 2026, the Sun transits Scorpio, bringing greater attention to emotional truths, intimate relationships, shared resources, and parts of life ready for meaningful change.

This year’s Scorpio season is especially reflective, with several key astrological dates encouraging us to revisit old decisions, reconsider relationships, and make space for personal growth that challenges past habits and cycles.

View this post on Instagram Which 4 Zodiac Signs Are Most Impacted by Scorpio Season?

The fixed signs, Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, and Aquarius, are the most impacted by Scorpio season.

Key Dates During Scorpio Season 2026

• October 23: Scorpio season begins. The Sun enters Scorpio, shifting attention toward emotional honesty, trust, intimacy, and transformation.
• October 24: Mercury retrograde begins in Scorpio. Conversations, plans, and decisions require a second look. Take your time before making assumptions or committing to something important.
• October 25: Venus retrograde returns to Libra. Relationships, personal values, and financial priorities come up for review, encouraging you to look more closely at what feels balanced and worthwhile.
• October 26: Full Moon in Taurus. This lunation brings clarity around personal needs, relationships, and the balance between stability and change.
• November 9: New Moon in Scorpio. Set intentions around personal growth, emotional renewal, and releasing patterns that no longer serve you.
• November 14: Venus turns direct in Libra. Relationship dynamics, aesthetic preferences, and financial decisions may begin to feel clearer after a period of reconsideration.
• November 22: Scorpio season ends.

Scorpio Season 2026 Horoscopes

Read for your rising sign for the most personalized interpretation, or explore your Sun sign for another perspective on the season ahead.

Aries: Shared Finances and Emotional Intimacy

Scorpio season draws your attention to what you share with others, from financial responsibilities to emotional vulnerability. Aries may reassess a joint investment, discuss debts, or figure out whether an arrangement feels fair. If you’ve been avoiding an uncomfortable conversation, this is an opportunity to approach it with greater honesty.

Intimacy is another major theme. You begin to recognize where you’ve been holding back and where trust requires intentional rebuilding. Mercury retrograde encourages you to slow down before making significant financial commitments or drawing conclusions about another’s intentions. The goal isn’t to force a breakthrough, but to understand what needs to change in order for you to feel secure in the long term.

Taurus: Relationships and Important Commitments

Your closest relationships take center stage during Scorpio season, Taurus. Whether you’re navigating a romantic partnership, a business collaboration, or an important friendship, you may feel compelled to examine the balance between your needs and someone else’s. Are you giving too much? Is an arrangement still working for both parties?

The October 26 Full Moon in your sign brings an especially personal moment of clarity. You could recognize how much you’ve changed. It’s okay to accept that an old relational expectation no longer reflects who you are. With Mercury retrograde encouraging you to revisit conversations, avoid assuming you have the full picture before hearing the other person out. Honest communication can help you decide which commitments deserve renewed investment.

Gemini: Work, Wellness, and Everyday Priorities

Scorpio season turns your attention toward your routines, work environment, and overall well-being. You may be ready to streamline your schedule, improve your working conditions, or reconsider how you distribute your energy throughout the day. If your current routine leaves you feeling depleted, this is a good time to identify what’s no longer sustainable.

Mercury retrograde brings back unfinished assignments and scheduling mix-ups. Rather than treating every interruption as a setback, use this period to refine your systems and address lingering details. Small adjustments could make a meaningful difference in how you feel. You don’t have to overhaul your entire life overnight; start with small habits, one step at a time.

Cancer: Romance, Creativity, and Personal Joy

When was the last time you made room for pleasure and joy, simply doing something because you wanted to? Scorpio season encourages you to reconnect with romance, creativity, and the hobbies that make you feel most alive. If you’ve been treating your interests as optional or putting your personal happiness on the back burner, ditch burnout hustle culture for a moment. Make space for enjoyment.

For some Cancers, this could mean revisiting a creative project that never quite got off the ground. Others may find themselves reconsidering what they want from dating or a romantic relationship. Mercury retrograde brings old feelings and unfinished conversations back into focus. Can you distinguish nostalgia from genuine desire? This is the ultimate question. You deserve experiences that feel fulfilling in the present, not just familiar because they belong to your past.

Leo: Home, Family, and Emotional Foundations

Scorpio season draws your attention inward, Leo, highlighting your living situation, family dynamics, and sense of belonging. You might feel ready to reorganize your home, address an unresolved family matter, or reconsider what you need from your private life to feel grounded.

Mars moves through your sign throughout the season, adding determination and urgency to your personal ambitions. However, that same drive could make domestic disagreements feel more intense than usual. Try to avoid turning every difference of opinion into a battle of wills. Mercury retrograde favors revisiting old discussions and clarifying what was left unsaid. Building a stronger foundation doesn’t require having every answer immediately. Often, it starts with acknowledging what you need to feel supported. From there, work together to find solutions versus figuring it all out on your own.

Virgo: Communication and Learning

Your words carry extra weight during Scorpio season, Virgo. This is an opportunity to have meaningful conversations, sharpen your writing, revisit a learning goal, or strengthen connections within your immediate community. You may find yourself drawn to subjects that require deeper research rather than a quick surface glance.

Mercury, your ruling planet, goes retrograde. This makes this an especially important season to review information. Double-check appointments, clarify misunderstandings, and give yourself time to reconsider your philosophical approach. A past conversation could also offer a fresh perspective on something you’ve been trying to understand. Rather than rushing to reach a conclusion, stay curious. You might discover that asking a better question is more useful than having an immediate answer.

Libra: Money, Self-Worth, and Personal Values

Scorpio season encourages you to look closely at your finances and what makes you feel valued. You’re getting ready to reassess your spending habits, negotiate compensation, or reconsider whether your current priorities reflect what matters most to you. This isn’t necessarily about cutting back; it’s about making sure your resources are supporting the life you want to build.

Venus, your ruling planet, spends much of Scorpio season retrograde before turning direct in Libra on November 14. This period can prompt reflection on your relationship with money, beauty, and self-worth. You might reconsider a purchase, revisit a financial decision, or recognize that you’ve been measuring your value by someone else’s standards. Give yourself permission to redefine what security and abundance mean to you. All in all, this season is about releasing what no longer serves.

Scorpio: Personal Reinvention and Fresh Intentions

Happy birthday season, Scorpio! With the Sun moving through your sign, you’re entering a period of heightened confidence. You’re restless to improve how you present yourself, take ownership of a personal ambition, or let go of an identity that no longer fits. This is your time to shine. Claim arising opportunities to reconnect with your desires and intentionally decide what kind of new chapter you want to begin.

Mercury retrograde in your sign encourages reflection before action. Old conversations, personal questions, or decisions you’ve put off could resurface, giving you a chance to approach them differently. November 9th’s New Moon in Scorpio is particularly fitting for setting intentions around your next chapter. You don’t need to become an entirely different person to grow. Sometimes, reinvention means finally allowing yourself to be more fully who you already are.

Sagittarius: Rest, Closure, and Inner Reflection

While you might usually prefer to keep moving forward, Sagittarius, Scorpio season asks you to slow down and pay attention to what is happening beneath the surface. Your private world, emotional well-being, and mental health deserve more attention now. You may benefit from spending time alone or stepping back from too many commitments while you’re already overwhelmed.

Mercury retrograde brings forgotten details or unresolved matters back into view, making this a useful period for reflection rather than forcing a fresh start. You don’t have to explain every decision to everyone around you. Some realizations need time to develop before you’re ready to share them. Prioritize rest, protect your boundaries, and allow yourself to close an emotional chapter before deciding what comes next.

Capricorn: Friendships, Community, and Future Plans

Scorpio season highlights the people and communities that help you move toward your long-term goals. You might reconnect with an old friend, reconsider your role within a group, or become more selective about where you invest your time and energy. A shared ambition could also benefit from a fresh discussion about expectations and responsibilities.

Mercury’s retrograde asks you to revisit plans before committing to a direction; you’re in a season of preparation, not rushing. If a collaboration has stalled, take it as a sign. This could be a chance to clarify the next steps rather than abandon the idea altogether. Pay attention to whether the people around you share your vision and respect your contributions. Your future isn’t built through individual effort alone; the right community can help you make meaningful progress.

Aquarius: Career, Reputation, and Long-Term Ambitions

Your professional life comes into focus during Scorpio season, Aquarius. You may be reconsidering your career direction, evaluating a leadership opportunity, or thinking more seriously about the reputation you want to build. Questions about success could feel especially pressing: Are you pursuing goals that genuinely matter to you, or are you following a path because it looks impressive from the outside?

Pluto, ending its retrograde in your sign, adds another layer to an ongoing process of personal transformation. Meanwhile, Mercury retrograde encourages you to review professional conversations, revisit proposals, and make sure your public commitments reflect your actual priorities. You don’t need a dramatic vocational move to make progress. Sometimes, the most powerful change begins with redefining what success means on your own terms.

Pisces: Beliefs, Travel, and Expanding Your Horizons

Scorpio season encourages you to broaden your perspective, Pisces. You may feel drawn to study a new subject, explore a different philosophy, plan a meaningful trip, or question a belief you’ve carried for years. Experiences that challenge your assumptions could help you see an old situation in a completely new light.

Mercury retrograde may require you to revisit travel plans, educational decisions, or conversations about your future direction. Leave room for adjustments rather than expecting everything to unfold the first time perfectly. This is also a good time to return to a book, course, or creative idea that once inspired you. You don’t need to have your entire future mapped out. Following your curiosity could help you discover the next direction worth pursuing.

Two penthouses that were previously owned by John Legend and his wife, Chrissy Teigen, are on the market.

The two penthouses are on the market at the same time, for a total cost of $22.5 million. Both are located in the Nolita in lower Manhattan, above the Little Italy neighborhood. Together, the sixth-floor simplex and a duplex spanning the fifth and sixth floors offer more than 6,100 square feet of interior space, with room for six bedrooms and access to the rooftop terrace.

Legend and Teigen purchased the two condos separately between 2018 and 2020, paying a combined $16.72 million, according to records. They initially planned to combine the apartments into a one-and-a-half-story residence, but decided against that because they spend most of their time in Los Angeles. They ended up selling both of the condos in 2022 as a package deal for $16.75 million, a little bit higher than what they bought them for.

Colorful old historic buildings at the intersection of Mott and Kenmare Street in Nolita neighborhood of Manhattan, New York City.

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The current owner has since updated the residences in collaboration with interior designer Augusta Hoffman. Those interested in purchasing can also buy the condos separately — with Penthouse North priced at $12.5 million, while Penthouse South is worth $10 million.

Penthouse North spans roughly 3,500 square feet, and has three bedrooms and two full bathrooms. Sprawled throughout the fifth and sixth floor of a building, the industrial heritage is apparent throughout the condo, showcased by original Corinthian cast-iron columns, high beamed ceilings, and steel-framed windows set against exposed brick walls. There are multiple entertaining spaces in the property, including a great room and a lower-level media lounge, which lead up to a 1,500-square-foot rooftop terrace.

Meanwhile, Penthouse South sits on the sixth floor, and has three bedrooms and three bathrooms. Roughly 2,600 square feet, the condo is anchored by a living room with 12-foot ceilings and sculptural traverse details. A southeastern exposure blankets the home with light, while a large private terrace sits above.

John Legend and Chrissy Teigen attend the Academy Museum 6th Annual Gala in Partnership with Rolex at Academy Museum of Motion Pictures on October 17, 2026 in Los Angeles, California.

Stefanie Keenan/Oscars / Getty Images

As of now, the couple balance family life, public appearances and business ventures from their base in California, along with their four children: Luna, Miles, Esti and Wren. The two do split their time between LA and New York City. For instance, this past weekend, they co-hosted and sponsored the 36th annual parade in Tompkins Square Park in the East Village through their pet food brand, Kismet. The next day, the two attended and served on the host committee for the 6th Annual Academy Museum Gala in Los Angeles.

In addition, Legend is prepping to release his 11th studio album, Muse, which is out this Friday. He is also set to go on tour in early 2027, and continues to serve as a judge on The Voice.

Meanwhile Teigen, who started her career as a model, is busy running her food and lifestyle brand, Cravings by Chrissy Teigen, and serves as the mysterious banker on the game show franchise Deal or No Deal Island.

Related: In 2018, Red Hot Chili Peppers bassist Flea paid $4.25 million for a 5.7-acre La Crescenta compound with a Richard Neutra house; he has now relisted it for $5.8 million

Related: Washington Square Park was once a burial ground; now, NYU is investing $6 million to preserve it

Clint Black and Lisa Hartman Black celebrated their 35th wedding anniversary on Tuesday, October 20, and their daughter made it very special.

“Happy anniversary to my best friends,” Lily Pearl Black commented over a throwback Instagram photo of her mom and dad with their arms around each other.

“Thank you for teaching me how to love & how to love life,” Lily continued. “I don’t know how I got so lucky… but I’ll never stop thanking god for the gift he gave me of y’all as my parents. I love you both to the moon and back.”

The post included Clint and Lisa’s 2001 duet “Easy for Me to Say” from his Greatest Hits II album. Both proud parents shared the post in their Instagram stories.

The country legend and the singer/actress first met backstage after Clint’s New Year’s Eve concert in 1990. He proposed in September 1991 while working out on a Salt Lake City college running track. The next month, they married on a horse farm near Houston, TX on Oct. 20, 1991.

Ten years later, they welcomed Lily, their only child. Clint revealed in his 2026 memoir, Killin’ Time: My Life and Music, that he and Lisa experienced four pregnancy losses before Lily was born.

Lisa starred on TV in Knots Landing from 1982-1986, and has also released four music albums. She shared an Academy Of Country Music Award with her husband in 2000: Vocal Event of the Year for “When I Said I Do.” In 2020, they appeared together in three episodes of The Masked Singer as The Snow Owls.

Lily is following in her parents’ footsteps as a singer. She’s released one EP, and recorded “Magical Christmas” with her dad for his 2018 The Clint Black Christmas Collection album.

Clint is now back on the road performing after he was hospitalized in June when a severe tonsil infection forced him to cancel a show on his Back on the Blacktop Tour.

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If there’s one person who knows how to make a meal feel special, it’s Martha Stewart. From her tried-and-true recipes to her decorating tips, she’s been teaching us about cooking and entertaining for decades. And while Martha certainly knows her way around the kitchen, setting a beautiful table is one of her greatest talents. Whether she’s hosting a holiday feast or serving an afternoon tea, she has a knack for making every detail feel thoughtful. Luckily, you don’t need her collection of antique dishes to borrow inspiration.

Take the Martha Stewart Highbrook 10-Inch Jadeite Cake Stand With Glass Dome, for example. Available for $50 at Amazon, this gorgeous serving piece has the soft green color of jadeite milk glass, which was popular from the 1930s through the 1970s. It’s pretty enough to leave out on your kitchen counter by itself, but just imagine how lovely it would look filled with homemade cookies, muffins, or a cake. But if baking isn’t your strong suit, it can dress up a store-bought dessert, too.

Martha Stewart Highbrook 10-Inch Jadeite Cake Stand With Glass Dome, $50 at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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Made from genuine jadeite milk glass, the cake stand has a beautiful mint-green color and glossy finish that really lets its vintage-inspired design shine. The pedestal base has a gently curved shape that gives the whole piece an elegant look, while the slightly raised rim helps keep everything in place. It measures just over 10 inches across and stands 4.7 inches tall, making it a lovely size for displaying tiered desserts. 

The clear glass dome might be my favorite detail, as it protects baked goods from drying out. It has a little knob on top for lifting it off, and because it’s completely transparent, you can admire whatever delicious creation is waiting underneath. There’s room for a cake up to 8.5 inches wide, but you could just as easily fill the stand with a pile of chocolate chip cookies, cupcakes, or an assortment of pastries. 

Shop More Deals

• Martha Stewart Highbrook 8.5-Inch Handmade Jadeite Glass Cake Stand, $32 (was $38) at Amazon
• Martha Stewart Highbrook 11-Inch Jadeite Glass Cake Stand, $38 at Amazon
• Martha Stewart Patterson 10-Inch Round Stoneware Pedestal Cake Stand, $38 at Amazon

And don’t save it just for birthdays or special occasions. Set it out on the dining table with a homemade apple pie for Thanksgiving, fill it with gingerbread cookies around Christmas, or use it to display a lemon cake at your next spring brunch.

Bakers couldn’t get enough of this “beautiful” and “stunning” serveware piece. One shopper called the design “simple but elegant,” saying that it “elevates whatever you are baking, from biscuits or scones to a fabulous birthday layer cake.”

Related: Bake ‘Extra Joy’ Into Fall Desserts With Drew Barrymore’s $10 Stoneware Pie Plate

Even if your baking skills aren’t quite up to Martha’s standards, your presentation certainly can be. Shop the Martha Stewart Highbrook 10-Inch Jadeite Cake Stand With Glass Dome for $50 at Amazon!

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.

We’ve all been on the receiving end of a heavy conversational spill. A close friend calls you in tears after a devastating performance review, or your partner walks through the front door visibly shaken after a painful conflict with a family member. When someone you care about opens up and starts venting, the atmosphere in the room shifts instantly. You want to offer comfort, relieve their distress and prove that you are a safe harbor in their storm. Yet, despite our absolute best intentions, many of us unwittingly collapse the space needed for genuine connection by committing a classic communication blunder.

When a loved one is raw, vulnerable and processing painful feelings, our natural human impulse is to jump in and rescue them. We want to smooth over the rough edges of their day, map out an immediate action plan or point out the silver lining behind their dark cloud. However, mental health experts agree that this instinct to leap into problem-solving mode actually signals a subtle bump in our emotional development.

In fact, people who possess a truly high emotional quotient (EQ)—also known as high emotional intelligence (EI)—manage to avoid a specific, pervasive mistake during intense venting sessions. Instead of trying to fix the problem or bypass the underlying emotion, they lean into quiet presence and validation. Understanding why fixing and emotional bypassing harm our relationships—and learning what high-EQ individuals do instead—can completely transform how you connect with the people who matter most.

Related: You Won’t Hear Emotionally Intelligent People Use This 1 Phrase With Friends, Psychologist Says

The Toxic Habit High-EQ People Avoid When Someone Is Venting

When someone comes to you to vent, the biggest mistake you can make is trying to fix the issue or bypass their emotions. In pop psychology and relationship counseling, this pattern is frequently referred to as “fixer syndrome” or emotional bypassing. It happens when you offer unsolicited advice, downplay the situation or rush to reframe a negative emotion into a positive one before the speaker has had the opportunity to fully process what they are experiencing.

In a previous Parade article about the phrases emotionally intelligent people use, Dr. Deborah Vinall, PsyD, LMFT, a licensed marriage and family therapist and the Chief Psychological Consultant with Recovered.org, emphasized that true emotional intelligence requires resisting the urge to troubleshoot another person’s pain. When we rush in with quick solutions, we are often managing our own discomfort with uncomfortable feelings rather than supporting the speaker.

“Emotionally intelligent people are able to empathize with others with different lived experiences,” she explained. “They express compassion without needing to ‘fix,’ emotionally bypass, or compare their own experiences.”

When you attempt to repair a problem prematurely, you inadvertently send a subtle message to the person venting: Your feelings are an inconvenience or a puzzle to be solved, rather than a valid human experience. Bypassing emotions by saying things like “Look on the bright side” or “It could be worse” forces the speaker to suppress their genuine distress. Highly emotionally intelligent individuals recognize that validation must always precede problem-solving.

Related: These 7 ‘Bad’ Habits Actually Signal High Emotional Intelligence, Psychologist Says

What Emotionally Intelligent People Do Instead

Rather than leaping into action mode or offering toxic positivity, people with high emotional intelligence employ specific, highly attuned communication strategies that make others feel deeply seen, respected and supported.

1. They offer validating statements

Instead of offering solutions, high-EQ communicators use simple phrases that acknowledge the reality of the speaker’s pain. Using grounding statements like “That sounds painful” or “I hear you” allows the other person to feel anchored without judgment.

According to Dr. Vinall, expressing direct empathy—such as stating “That sounds painful”—is deeply validating for someone who is struggling. It signals that you are strong enough to sit alongside their difficult emotions without running away or forcing them to cheer up.

Related: The ‘Decision Regret’ Rule: How To Tell if a Friend Is Secretly a Toxic Influence on You

2. They ask open, collaborative questions

Instead of dictating what the speaker should do next, emotionally intelligent listeners hand control back to the person who is overwhelmed. They ask empowering, open-ended questions like, “What would make this easier for you?” or “Do you want to brainstorm solutions, or do you just need to vent?”

Dr. Vinall noted that asking what would make things easier demonstrates a “collaborative and allied mindset, gentle directness, and refrains from over-promising or rescuing.” It shifts the dynamic from a savior-and-victim structure to an equal partnership built on mutual respect.

3. They practice active, non-defensive listening

When someone is venting—especially if the topic touches on a shared situation or conflict—the reflex to defend oneself or prepare a rebuttal can be overwhelming. High-EQ individuals maintain deep presence by staying curious rather than defensive.

Using inviting phrases like “Tell me more” helps keep the focus entirely on the speaker’s narrative.

“Emotionally intelligent people listen deeply rather than planning their response or rebuttal while the other talks,” Dr. Vinall highlighted. “This simple phrase demonstrates the capacity to hold others’ narratives without rushing to defensiveness or a need to correct or re-center oneself.”

By choosing validation over fixing and presence over bypassing, you build deeper trust and cultivate relationships where true emotional safety can thrive.

Adapted from Parade’s “If You Commonly Use These 7 Phrases, You’re More Emotionally Intelligent Than You Might Realize, According to a Psychologist” by Beth Ann Mayer

Up Next:

Related: People Who Use This 1 Phrase in High-Stress Situations Have Abnormally High EQ, Says Psychologist

Source:

• Dr. Deborah Vinall, PsyD, LMFT, is a licensed marriage and family therapist and the Chief Psychological Consultant with Recovered.org.

Selma Blair’s time on Dancing With the Stars came to a heartbreaking end four years ago, but it turns out the actress isn’t ruling out another spin around the ballroom.

Blair opened up about her experience on the ABC competition during the Oct. 20 episode of The Jenny McCarthy Wahlberg Show, telling host Jenny McCarthy Wahlberg that she loved dancing on the show so much that she would consider doing it again.

The interview was recorded before Blair’s recent arrest after causing a disturbance on a flight. McCarthy Wahlberg added a message at the beginning of the episode noting the timing and sending the actress “love, compassion and support.”

Blair competed on season 31 of Dancing With the Stars in 2022 alongside professional partner Sasha Farber. The Legally Blonde star, who had publicly revealed her multiple sclerosis diagnosis in 2018, became a fan favorite but withdrew from the competition after four weeks because of concerns about her health.

Looking back on the experience with McCarthy Wahlberg, Blair described just how physically challenging performing could be.

She explained that while rehearsing a routine, her brain and body could sometimes learn to compensate enough for her to perform. But when the music stopped, she could suddenly struggle to move again.

“Then I couldn’t move again to get to the judges,” Blair recalled, adding that sometimes she would regain the ability while talking to the judges. Having to leave was difficult not only because Blair wanted to continue but because her exit also ended Farber’s season.

“I was so sad,” she said. “That meant that, like, Sasha had to be done with the season, and I loved it.”

Blair said she had never been a dancer, despite wanting to dance when she was younger. Finally getting that opportunity as an adult made the Dancing With the Stars experience particularly special.

“To have that moment, I loved it,” she said. “And it felt very old Hollywood. Right? It felt like a variety show. Totally. It felt incredible.”

That’s when McCarthy Wahlberg asked the obvious question: Would Blair ever go back?

“Oh my God, I would love to,” Blair replied.

Related: Selma Blair Reveals Her Role in Christina Applegate’s MS Diagnosis the Same Day Applegate Drops Misdiagnosis Bombshell

She acknowledged that another opportunity might be unlikely, while also explaining that she had undergone a bone marrow transplant before competing and was still dealing with the physical effects of her treatment at the time.

“I felt so good exercising again and having a goal,” Blair said. “I wanted to go back. You know, never say never, never say never.”

McCarthy Wahlberg floated the possibility of some kind of Dancing With the Stars reunion show before coming up with an even better idea: a “second chance” edition for contestants whose original runs were cut short.

“Maybe I’ll make a phone call,” McCarthy Wahlberg joked.

Blair was game enough to joke that she’d probably come back only to get eliminated in the first week.

The actress also revealed that she planned to watch the current season because her former co-star Julia Stiles is competing. Blair said she has “loved her forever” and noted that the two worked together on movies when they were younger.

Blair’s confession arrives at an especially fitting time. Dancing With the Stars airs Tuesday nights on ABC and streams live on Disney+, giving fans of the actress one more reason to wonder whether “never say never” might someday turn into a second chance in the ballroom.

Related: Jenny McCarthy Reveals Bizarre Moment at Tom Cruise & Katie Holmes’ Wedding: ‘Like Rosemary’s Baby’

Winter is fast approaching, and you know what that means: salty floors, slush, snow and other mess. Yay. And if you have kids or pets (or both), you know how dirty things can get this time of year, fast, with little boots and paws tracking in all of it. That’s why Aldi’s new power mop set is such a game changer for fall and winter. It makes keeping your floors clean easy and effortless. It’s a total winner.

Aldi’s Easy Home Sage/White Power Mop Set makes keeping your floors clean this fall and winter a complete and total breeze. Available in a white-and-sage or white-and-gray color scheme, this mop works on all types of floors, including hardwood, laminate and tile. This nifty flat mop set helps you get the job done quickly, efficiently and easily.

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Easy Home Sage/White Power Mop Set, $24.99 at Aldi

Aldi

The three-piece set includes a mop, flat mop head and bucket, making it easy to tackle everything from salt to dirt, mud and other grime. The bucket system lets you easily wring out the mop.

This super convenient cleaning companion is available at select Aldi stores right now as part of the current selection of Aldi Finds, weekly product specials with limited stock available only while supplies last. You can shop for them in the center aisle. This mop set retails for $24.99.

Other Aldi Finds to Check Out

If you’re interested in checking out some other Aldi Finds, be sure to take a look at this $50 stand mixer that’s giving major KitchenAid vibes but for a whole lot less, this cutesy and nostalgic holiday ceramic village collection that could pass for Lenox, these sophisticated but cozy $10 cordless lamps that bring a warm glow to any room or this darling ceramic gingerbread train that looks straight out of a Pottery Barn catalog.

Related: Revamp Your Pantry With Aldi’s Sleek New Bamboo Organizers

You don’t need a log cabin in the mountains to enjoy its cozy charm. As the temperatures dip and the days get shorter, it’s oh-so appealing to turn your bedroom into a little woodland retreat where you can curl up with a good book, sip something warm and pretend your only responsibility is deciding which blanket to snuggle under next. This usually involves soft, layered bedding, warm wood accents, a bedside lamp that casts a gentle glow and maybe a few nature-inspired touches, like pinecones, leafy prints or a landscape painting. The goal isn’t to turn your room into a hunting lodge (unless that’s your thing!) but to capture a relaxed, rustic feeling.

You can get that cabin-in-the-woods vibe without doing much. Sometimes, all it takes is switching to bedding with a cozy pattern or a richer seasonal palette. A quilt is especially handy because you can layer it over your existing comforter or use it on its own when it’s not quite freezing.

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Aspen Holiday Shadow Reversible Quilt Set, $49.99–$59.99 at Marshalls

Marshalls

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If this is the cozy aesthetic you’re aiming for, meet the Aspen Holiday Shadow Reversible Quilt Set at Marshalls. It’s $49.99 for the Queen size and $59.99 for the King size, with a lovely woodland print on one side and a mini green gingham pattern on the other. The set includes the quilt (obviously) and two coordinating shams.

Related: Brighten Things Up With Marshalls’ Antique-Inspired Lamp in One of Morris & Co.’s Most Popular Patterns

How to Choose the Right Bedding Layers

Choosing between a quilt, comforter, duvet or a mix of layers really comes down to your sleep style and how much warmth you need. Quilts are typically lighter and less puffy, making them great for warm sleepers, mild nights or layering over other bedding when temperatures drop.

Comforters, on the other hand, offer more loft and cozy insulation, so they’re a solid choice if you tend to get chilly or want that fluffy, tucked-in feeling. Duvets offer a similar snuggly feel, but with a removable cover that’s easier to wash or swap out when you’re ready for a seasonal refresh.

Don’t underestimate the power of layers! Pair a lightweight quilt with a comforter or add a throw at the foot of the bed so you can adjust your warmth throughout the night. The trick is finding a setup that feels comfortable to you, because nothing’s better than not having to kick off half the covers at 3 a.m.

Related: Kohl’s Gorgeous Green Washable Rug Is Giving ‘Rich Home’ Vibes on a Budget

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Replacing several windows is a significant home-improvement expense, so timing the project around seasonal promotions can make a difference. Window companies often see their busiest periods when homeowners tackle renovations in spring and summer. During slower months, some companies offer promotions or have more scheduling flexibility.

There is no single month that guarantees the lowest price everywhere. Labor rates, window styles, project size, location and current promotions all affect the final quote. But understanding how demand changes throughout the year can help you shop strategically.

Ready to see how much you could save on your window replacement project this season? Schedule your free design consultation with Renewal by Andersen today to unlock exclusive local promotions and special financing options.

When Is the Cheapest Time of Year To Replace Windows?

Late fall and winter are often worth checking for replacement-window promotions because demand tends to be lower than during the traditional spring and summer renovation season. Some companies use off-season discounts or financing promotions to encourage homeowners to schedule projects during these slower periods.

Renewal by Andersen specifically notes that winter installation may come with special pricing, discounts or promotions, although offers vary by location and time. Its 2026 guidance on getting the most value from replacement windows recommends checking for seasonal sales and current promotions.

That does not mean you should automatically wait for winter. If your windows are failing, delaying the project could mean spending another season dealing with drafts, condensation or poor operation.

Does Winter Window Replacement Really Cost Less?

It can, but the savings depend on the company and promotion. Winter is generally considered an off-peak period for many home-improvement projects, which can give homeowners more opportunities to find a deal.

Renewal by Andersen says replacement windows can be installed year-round. Its installers use techniques designed to minimize heat loss during cold-weather installation, including working on one window at a time.

That makes winter a practical time to request quotes, even if you live somewhere with cold temperatures. You do not necessarily have to wait for warm weather to replace drafty windows.

Related: How To Match Replacement Windows to Your Home’s Siding and Trim

Why Winter May Offer Pricing Advantages

A slower season can give replacement-window companies an incentive to attract projects through:

• Seasonal discounts
• Promotional financing
• Package offers
• Greater appointment availability

These incentives are not guaranteed, so compare the actual project price rather than assuming a winter quote will be lower.

Is Fall a Good Time To Buy Replacement Windows?

Fall can offer a useful combination of moderate weather and off-peak scheduling, particularly once the busiest summer renovation period starts winding down.

It is also a practical time to address windows before winter heating becomes a daily necessity. Replacing inefficient windows before cold weather arrives means you can begin benefiting from improved performance during the heating season.

For homeowners who want more flexibility without waiting until the coldest part of winter, fall is worth including when requesting quotes.

Don’t let drafty, inefficient windows drive up your monthly energy bills for another season. Request a free quote from Renewal by Andersen now and start lowering your utility costs.

Are Spring and Summer More Expensive for Window Replacement?

Not necessarily, but demand can be higher during the warmer months. Spring and summer are popular times for home renovations, so installation calendars may fill more quickly.

Higher demand does not automatically mean higher prices. A company’s labor costs, material prices, local competition and current promotions still determine the quote. However, homeowners who wait until peak season may have fewer appointment options.

If you already know you need replacement windows, getting a consultation before the busiest season can give you more time to compare options and schedule the work around your preferred timeline.

How Much Can You Save by Replacing Windows in the Off-Season?

There is no reliable nationwide amount that every homeowner will save by choosing winter or another off-peak month. A claim that winter automatically cuts hundreds from every project would be misleading.

Actual savings depend on the promotion available, the number and type of windows being replaced, installation costs and the company’s regular pricing.

For example, Renewal by Andersen currently advertises location-specific promotions that can include discounts on windows and doors and special financing. Its offers are subject to eligibility requirements, minimum purchases and expiration dates, so homeowners should check the current offer when requesting a quote. The better approach is to compare the total project price and terms, not simply the advertised discount.

What Is the Best Way to Get a Lower Window Replacement Price?

Start by getting quotes before you need the work completed. That gives you time to compare window materials, glass options, installation and warranties rather than making a decision based solely on a limited-time promotion.

Ask each replacement window company:

1. Is the quoted price for the complete installation?
2. Are there current seasonal promotions?
3. Does the promotion have a minimum purchase?
4. Can promotional financing be combined with other discounts?
5. How long is the quoted price valid?

Comparing equivalent projects is essential. A lower quote may not represent a better value if it includes different glass, materials, installation services or warranty coverage.

Related: Replacing Every Window in Your Home? How To Build a Budget Without Overspending

Should You Wait for a Window Sale?

If your windows are still performing well, waiting for an upcoming promotion can be reasonable. But waiting solely for a seasonal discount is less useful when existing windows are already causing drafts, water problems or operational issues.

Energy savings also begin after installation. Renewal by Andersen notes that replacing inefficient windows can begin reducing energy costs immediately, so the potential savings from waiting for a promotion should be weighed against the cost of keeping poorly performing windows for another season.

New Windows From Renewal by Andersen

Renewal by Andersen

Professional window replacement from Renewal by Andersen can help you save money on your utility bills.

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How Can You Time a Window Replacement Project?

A good strategy is to start researching during the warmer months and request quotes before the traditional renovation rush. If a company has an off-season promotion, you can then decide whether the savings justify scheduling the installation later in the year.

Renewal by Andersen offers a free design consultation, where homeowners can discuss their project, receive measurements and review available options and current promotions.

If you are trying to lower the cost of replacement windows, ask about off-season pricing rather than waiting for a specific “cheapest month.” A current promotion, flexible installation date or financing offer could affect your total more than the calendar alone.

Planning ahead is the best way to secure flexible installation dates and beat the peak renovation rush. Schedule a complimentary consultation with Renewal by Andersen today to receive a personalized estimate tailored to your home and budget.

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

Tom Cruise dared to try something different from his Mission: Impossible movies when he appeared as the titular character in Digger, which was released earlier this month.

The new movie, directed by Alejandro G. Iñárritu and costarring Riz Ahmed, John Goodman, and Sandra Hüller, follows as “[t]he most powerful man in the world embarks on a frantic mission to prove he is humanity’s savior before the disaster he’s unleashed destroys everything,” according to IMDb.

Despite the star power behind the movie, it “is bombastic, misanthropic and an epic, critically savaged flop,” The Guardian notes.

That was backed up by The New York Times stating that “[t]he film has been roundly savaged as a critical and financial catastrophe, a soon-to-be legendary flop that will go down alongside Mr. Cruise’s biggest public missteps, like the couch jumping, the Matt Lauer interview and Knight and Day.”

Indeed, it’s received less-than-favorable reviews from critics (to put it mildly), and after only taking in $8 million during its first weekend in US theaters, before dropping a massive 60% for the second weekend, it was pulled from over 2,500 theatres across the country before week three.

At the same time, The Guardian claims that “[i]t is also the near-perfect climate change film for our era.” Beyond that, “Digger might not be the climate film we want. But it may be the one we need.”

Although “[e]verything is unendurably loud” in the film and “nothing is funny,” The New York Times mentions that Iñárritu “has hidden a quiet, thoughtful movie about our collective failure to act on climate change inside the husk of a earsplitting, empty one. As a result, Digger may be the best climate crisis movie ever made, cleverly disguised as the worst.”

The movie makes audiences face what’s happening around us due to our own actions, and although “[i]ts commercial failure, along with the ideological leanings of the movie studio overlords, may deter further attempts to give us unvarnished tales of the climate crisis,” The Guardian points out “[t]hat would be a huge, iceberg-sized mistake.”