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We Asked 3 Chefs for Their Favorite 'Underrated' Slow Cooker Dish, and Their Answers Surprised Us
In my house, a slow cooker was on my husband's Christmas list that was enthusiastically unboxed and used for a total of three times in the past four years. It's an appliance that has been taking up precious cabinet space in my compact New York City apartment. The abandoned appliance got me thinking about how much untapped potential might actually be sitting inside of it. Slow cookers are often called the ultimate “set it and forget it” appliance, yet for many home cooks, they end up feeling limited to a few repetitive recipes.
Many households seem to have a similar handful of go-to recipes and we tend to fall into a rut when it comes to using Crock Pots and similar appliances. Depending on the volume of the slow cooker you own and the number of people you're cooking for, it can work perfectly for an easy weeknight dinner. Larger models work very well for a hands-off dish for a dinner party or a big, versatile base that can be used to create multiple types of meals to keep things interesting without extra effort. But there is so much more to slow cookers than just this.
To explore what this everyday appliance is truly capable of, I reached out to chefs to learn which slow cooker dishes they think are most underrated, and the tips and hacks they rely on to get exceptional results.
Read on to find out more about their insights on unexpected recipes you can make in a slow cooker—as well as chef-approved tips and tricks for using your appliance.
Related: 35 Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Potato Dishes for Weeknight Ease
3 Underrated Slow Cooker Dishes, According to ChefsHere, three chefs tell Parade the #1 Crock Pot or slow cooker meal they believe is the most "underrated," and why they'd encourage more people to try it out themselves.
1. Beef BourguignonBeef bourguignon might sound like a dish you make only on special occasions but at its core, it's just a really flavorful beef stew. The only thing is that a beef bourguignon can only be called so if it has red wine as a back bone, lardons as a source of fat, mushrooms and pearl onions.
“One of the best dishes to make in a slow cooker is beef bourguignon,” says Franklin Becker of Manhattan’s acclaimed Point Seven restaurant. This classic French stew is generally simmered for hours on the stovetop, and therefore is especially well-suited for the slow cooker, where the steady heat allows the meat to become fork-tender while absorbing the flavors of the aromatics and red wine perfectly.
“First, sear cubes of beef chuck well in rendered bacon fat and transfer them to a plate. In the same pan, sauté mirepoix until softened, then add garlic and tomato paste and cook until fragrant," explains Becker. "Deglaze with red wine, letting it reduce slightly before transferring everything to the slow cooker along with the beef, bacon, stock and herbs. Let the mixture cook on the low setting for six to seven hours."
He finishes the dish by stirring in pearl onions and buttery sautéed mushrooms just before serving.
Related: 37 Simple and Healthy Crock Pot Recipes That Basically Make Themselves
2. Pulled PorkPulled pork might sound like a very generic and overdone slow cooker dish, but it isn't just about the pulled pork. What you do once the pork has been slowly cooked for hours and pulled apart makes all the difference. Matt Abdoo, chef and co-founder of Pig Beach BBQ calls it his "blank canvas."
“My favorite underrated slow cooker dish is pulled pork as it is one of the most versatile things you can make and something you can use to easily turn into different meals,” Abdoo tells Parade. “It’s the true definition of 'set it and forget it,' and it’s also incredibly forgiving. As long as you remember to turn the slow cooker on, it will come out juicy and full of flavor every time."
He starts with large chunks of pork shoulder and seasons it well with salt and pepper. Then, he transfers it to the slow cooker with a little chicken broth or even just water, and allows the slow cooker to do the work on a low setting for up to eight hours.
From there, the meat can easily be transformed into a hearty addition to mac n cheese, tossed into a green curry, or shredded into pasta sauce for a great pulled-pork ragu.
Maria Camila Tobon/Getty Images
3. Black-Eyed Pea and Butterbean Soup with Chicken Andouille SausageKevin Curry, founder and author of Fit Men Cook, highlights black-eyed pea and butterbean soup as his favorite underrated slow cooker meals.
“It has soul food roots with a Cajun nod, and it always tastes way more complex than the ingredient list suggests, which is exactly why I love it,” he says.
To build that depth, he soaks the beans, browns the sausage, and sautés the classic holy trinity of onion, bell pepper and celery in a Dutch oven. Then, he blooms his seasoning blends, Taco Titan and Land, Herb and Garlic, in the sautéed mixture with a spoonful of miso for an umami boost without extra salt.
“Everything goes into the slow cooker with stock and bay leaves,” Curry explains, “until the beans are tender and the butterbeans start to break down and thicken the broth.”
He recommends cooking this on the low setting for seven to eight hours and on the high setting for four to five hours. And, in a pinch, you can absolutely used canned beans, which also reduces cook time to 30-45 minutes on the high setting.
Curry finishes the soup with a splash of apple cider vinegar and serves it over fresh kale that has been massaged with lemon juice, which takes it to the next level.
5 Chef-Approved Slow Cooker Tips, Tricks & Hacks1. Cook low and slow for the best textureAny chef will tell you that cooking meat especially, low and slow is the way to go.
“Although the slow cooker generally has three settings, I like to cook my dishes on the low setting for the best texture,” says Abdoo. He suggests allowing yourself up to eight hours for the cooking to be done, depending on what it is.
“Smaller proteins such as chicken thighs will take around three to four hours, whereas larger proteins like pork shoulder or chuck roasts could take up to eight hours, depending on their size,” he explains.
Related: 63 Vegetarian Crock Pot Recipes for Light and Easy Weeknight Meals
2. Use less liquid than you thinkUnlike stovetop cooking, very little liquid evaporates from the slow cooker. “Ensure there is enough liquid but not too much for the most flavor,” says Becker.
Filling the slow cooker to a maximum of about two-thirds of its volume is a good gauge, allowing ingredients to release their own moisture without diluting the final dish. Too much liquid can mute flavors and leave sauces thin instead of rich and concentrated.
3. Keep the lid on at all timesIt is tempting to check in, but resist the urge. “Every time you lift the lid, heat and moisture escape, slowing down the cooking process further,” Becker, Abdoo and Curry all tell Parade. Trusting the process is key so allow the slow cooker to make its magic without interruption!
Related: 27 of the Best Crock Pot Chicken Recipes to Simplify Your Dinner Routine
4. Brown the meats firstIf you are making a non-vegetarian dish, searing the meat first can make a world of difference. Becker, Abdoo and Curry agree that the Maillard reaction on the surface of the meat when seared, creates complex, flavorful compounds that you can’t get from simply cooking alone.
“The caramelized exterior adds depth to the final dish, especially in slow-cooked recipes where all the ingredients simmer together for hours,” they say.
5. Add delicate ingredients lastThere are some ingredients that don’t do well sitting in a slow cooker for hours. Slow cooking certain ingredients can ruin the texture or add off-putting flavors to a dish.
“Fresh herbs, dairy, quick cooking vegetables such as mushrooms or zucchini, and citrus are best added at the end of the cooking process to allow them to truly shine,” suggests Curry. They are also the best way to add another layer of flavor.
Up Next:
Related: The Genius Crock-Pot Trick I Use All the Time
Sources:- Franklin Becker, chef and co-owner of Point Seven
- Matt Abdoo, chef and co-founder of Pig Beach BBQ
- Kevin Curry, founder and author of Fit Men Cook
This Outdoor Rocking Chair From Sam’s Club Has the Best Feature to Save Space on Small Patios
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Real talk: I live for an outdoor rocking chair moment. I have two on my front porch and the instant I sit in one it feels like my whole body can exhale. Like, the second you plop down and start that gentle back-and-forth, your brain gets the memo that you are officially off duty.
And the rocking itself is soothing in that almost nostalgic way, like your body remembers it before your brain does. You're (hopefully) not thinking about your to-do list—you're just existing peacefully. Ideally with an iced tea nearby. So the idea of a rocking chair you can take anywhere feels kind of genius. Patio, park or campsite—wherever you land, you've got your own little pocket of calm ready to go.
Member's Mark Rocking Chair, $79.98 at Sam's Club Member's Mark Rocking ChairSam's Club
Shop It!Sam's Club is selling a Member's Mark Rocking Chair that's designed to be used outdoors and, get this, it's foldable. So if you don't have a large patio or porch, or if you just simply want to rock on the go and throw this bad boy in the car, you can. Because it folds so easily and gets compact enough to stow it away anywhere.
And you have a few different colorways to choose from, too. There's blue, black, red, grey and "grey pumice" (basically just a lighter grey).
Related: Aldi's 3-Tier Floral Serving Piece Is the Stuff of Your Whimsical Tea Party Dreams
The Member's Mark Rocking Chair is one of those Sam's Club items that gets a lot of love in the product reviews section—mostly all five stars.
"This rocking chair is basically a throne for humans," says one enthusiastic customer. "The steel frame feels sturdy, the extra-wide seat is roomy, and the built-in pillows cradle your neck and back like royalty. Rocking gently, you might even start plotting great ideas—or just an epic nap. Highly recommend!"
I will say the padded body of the chair is a really nice feature. I have polyethylene rocking chairs on my front porch and while I love them, they do require extra cushions to make them more comfy. These Sam's Club chairs essentially have that cushioning built in—nothing pillowy but enough that you can sink into them and fully relax.
If you head to Sam's Club for these rocking chairs, make sure you hit up the home section. The retailer is selling the prettiest floral ceramic bowls for spring, as well as a timeless stoneware pitcher (perfect for holding that iced tea while you rock on your porch).
Related: This Light and Crisp Rosé Is the Perfect Wine for Your Easter Brunch
Rock Icon With No. 1 Hit Turns 79 Today
Former Toto singer Bobby Kimball turned 79 on March 29, 2026, as reported by On This Day.
Kimball lent his iconic vocals to several beloved Toto songs, including the 1982 song "Africa," which topped the Billboard Hot 100 on February 5, 1983. In a 2016 interview with A Growing Bolder, Kimball noted that his voice was featured on some of the band's most popular songs.
"Nobody sang anything else on 'Hold the Line.' I sang all the backgrounds and all the leads. I sang most of 'Rosanna,' I sang the chorus on 'Africa.' And everyone told me, 'Oh my god, we loved 'Africa' because of the chorus.' Well, I sang all the biggest hits Toto did," said the musician.
According to Ultimate Classic Rock, Kimball was removed from Toto because of his issues with substance abuse following the release of the 1982 album, Toto IV. While speaking to A Growing Bolder, Kimball said, "It was very tough getting asked to leave Toto in 1984."
Toto songwriter and keyboardist, Steve Porcaro, shared that the band went through some difficulty after Kimball's exit in a 2023 interview with Rock History Music. Porcaro described Kimball, who ended up being replaced by late singer, Fergie Frederiksen, as being "very special."
Parade reported that during a November 2025 appearance on The Rockonteurs, Porcaro stated that he wasn't on bad terms with Kimball.
“You know… there was all this bulls— in the early ’90s about how we were mortal enemies and all this crap. I love Bobby Kimball. He’s one of the greatest singers I’ve ever been around. When the voice was on… he was untouchable," said Porcaro during the November 2025 interview.
He also suggested that he and Kimball haven't been able to talk as much because he has Frontotemporal Dementia.
"Listen, I love Bobby, we’ve been in touch, but he’s starting to lose touch with who he is now because of, you know, dementia. It’s very sad, and I have no right to talk about it. I love him, and… there’s a third party involved that sends love," said Porcaro.
Spice Girl Geri Halliwell Attends Cruz Beckham's Concert Alongside David and Victoria: 'Dude Is A Star'
Cruz Beckham's music officially has another Spice Girl's stamp of approval.
On Saturday, at his most recent gig with his band, The Breakers, Geri Halliwell was in attendance along with his mom and dad, Victoria and David.
"This dude is a star," Ginger Spice captioned a selfie of her and Cruz from The Courtyard Theatre in London. She also shared selfies with David and Victoria and a photo of the band, captioned, "He's on fire!" on her Instagram Stories.
According to the Daily Mail, Victoria's brother and sister were also in attendance.
The show marked the conclusion of the band's tour around Europe, however the group will be heading across the pond starting in July for a North American tour, which Cruz announced via Instagram last week.
While his music career is well underway, the timing of his early success comes as the famous family continues to be at odds with its eldest son, Brooklyn. In fact, fans believe that Cruz's song "Loneliest Boy" is directly about his older brother and their estrangement. While performing the song on Tuesday, he became visibly emotional, the Daily Mail reported.
In addition to his music, Cruz has spoken about the family drama, which stemmed from Brooklyn's 2022 marriage to Nicola Peltz, denying the rumor that his parents have unfollowed their oldest son on Instagram.
"My mum and dad would never unfollow their son," he wrote at the time. "Let’s get the facts right. They woke up blocked… as did I.”
Related: Brooklyn Beckham Slams Victoria and David's 'Performative' Birthday Wishes
While rumors of tension between Brooklyn and Peltz and the rest of the family had been bubbling up since their wedding, the drama finally surfaced in January of this year when the amateur chef took to his Instagram stories with a lengthy and scathing post as to why he's cut ties with his family.
“I do not want to reconcile with my family," his statement read in part. "I’m not being controlled, I’m standing up for myself for the first time in my life.”
Still, Victoria and David, who have not publicly responded to his claims, wished him a happy birthday earlier this month on Instagram, to which Brooklyn slammed via a statement as "performative."
Kelly Ripa Gets Rare Apology From Howie Mandel After Viral Joke Controversy (Well, Sort Of!)
Comedian Howie Mandelcould be getting a little heat for the "joke" he made to Kelly Ripa on Live with Kelly and Mark last week. The awkward moment did go viral and started some important conversation, and today he's issuing a rare apology of sorts to the beloved host.
In case you missed it, Mandel was a guest on the talk show this week, in part, celebrating his 70th birthday. Both Ripa and her co-host husband Mark Consueloswere attempting to shower Mandel in compliments about his healthy physique and his looks.
After talking about his 70-year milestone, Ripa said, “That doesn’t make any sense.”
Mandel interrupted her saying, “What do you mean that doesn’t make any sense?”
And Ripa continued to say, “Because you look…”
This led to an awkward back and forth where Mandel explained (kiddingly?) he didn't like hearing he looked good only in in context with his age, and Ripa tried to clarify that wasn't what she was saying at all.
That's when Mandel dropped his joke, “”It’s like saying you’re smart for a stupid person.”
(We previously called out how Ripa, probably unwittingly, did use ageist language, despite how very socially acceptable it is to do so.)
Related: Howie Mandel, 70, Calls Out Kelly Ripa, 55, for Using Ageist Language
There are unconfirmed rumors that Ripa was upset by the joke. Perhaps this is why Mandel is now struggling really, really hard to apologize in his very Howie Mandel type of way.
Mandel posted the message to Ripa via his Instagram, stating he's been debating for 48 hours on whether or not to do it. "Philosophically I don't believe that somebody's who's a comedian needs to apologize for a joke," Mandel says. "It is a joke. It is meant as a joke. And it's not meant to offend. You can not like it ... In all my 50 years in the business, I haven't ever publicly, kind of, apologized for ... So this is incredibly hard for me."
After a pause, he says, "But this is for Kelly Ripa ..."
Take a listen to Howie Mandel's attempt at an apology for Kelly Ripa:
View this post on InstagramWell, at least we know where Mandel stands for now. Actually, take that back. It might be impossible to ever know where Mandel truly stands—or where the joking begins and ends.
It certainly doesn't appear his ego has truly taken a hit due to Ripa's comments—but for the record, we're still not gonna cosign the way she approached her compliment.
‘90s ‘Baywatch’ Star David Charvet and His Lookalike Son Are Basically Twins in Shirtless Gym Pics
David Charvet is best known for his role on Baywatch in the ’90s, and one glance at his lookalike son makes it clear that the apple doesn't fall far from the tree.
Charvet, 53, was born and raised in France before heading stateside and taking Hollywood by storm. It was his role as the handsome high schooler Matt Brody on Baywatch that catapulted him to superstardom and made him a household name among young women who loved his hair flip and washboard abs. (Which he clearly still has!)
After departing Baywatch, Charvet headed to Melrose Place and also pursued a music career. He even had success on the charts in his native country of France. But these days, Charvet's favorite role is devoted dad, and he regularly hits the gym with his son, Shay. In a shirtless selfie, the father-son duo shared a photo that showed they basically have the same face. It's almost mindblowing how much Shay looks like his father did at his age!
"No filters just hard work @buildlosangeles_ proud of you @shayacharvet ❤️," David captioned the photo, to which Shay replied, "Let's go."
View this post on Instagram What is David Charvet Up to These Days?During the show’s heyday, Charvet dated co-star Pamela Anderson, who played lifeguard C.J. Parker. He went on to marry Brooke Burke, who is the mother of his children, Heaven and Shay. However, the couple divorced in 2020.
While Charvet made headlines as an actor, life in front of the camera doesn’t interest him all that much anymore. He pivoted to working for a residential contractor, The Jones Builders Group, and hasn’t looked back.
“To wake up every morning early, to be able to be the first face that my kids would see has been a blessing,” Charvet explained to Fox News in 2022. “And I did it. People to this day ask me, ‘How come you have such a great relationship with your children?’ And I said to them, ‘… I put the time in.’”
We love a devoted dad!
I Stopped Looking at My Phone Before Bed for 30 Days and I Was Honestly Surprised by the Results
I've long been a night owl and a morning person. That is, I don't sleep as much as I'd like. These tendencies were necessary during two nearly back-to-back newborn phases for my children, and frankly, unavoidable during pregnancies (two thumbs down for third-trimester 3 a.m. bathroom runs).
But they became harmful as my kids grew, and they no longer needed a 3 a.m. feeding. For starters, my patience (a qualification for raising two small children and multiple pets) was as thin as my postpartum hair. Also, as a health writer, I am acutely aware of how vital it is to protect against cardiovascular disease, cognitive decline later in life and cancer. Nearly every time I ask any specialist for healthy lifestyle tips, sleep comes up.
So, after years of shrugging and saying, "I'll sleep when I'm dead," I began embarking on a journey to get longer, higher-quality shuteye—to fall asleep more easily and stay asleep. I thought I finally had it down after getting blackout curtains. They were super helpful (cool dark rooms for the win), but as my life got stressful again, the 3 a.m. wake-ups returned. I rinsed, washed and repeated with sleep meditations.
Throughout these struggles, I was good about blue light and putting my phone to bed at least one hour before I hit the hay. I'm aware of the effects blue light can have on sleep. But in January, I sustained an injury to my dominant hand and had some other stressors. The world was also on fire. Suddenly, my willpower to resist my phone before bed plummeted, and my sleep hours did, too (and I was already running on only about five hours nightly).
When my Parade editor sent out an email asking if anyone wanted to do a 30-day challenge to stop looking at their phone before bed, it felt like a sign from the universe to make a change. So, I did. That night, I began to shift to putting my phone away at least 90 minutes before bedtime (even longer than my pre-injury hour between nixing screens and bedtime).
It has not completely changed my life, but it has made a massive impact on my well-being. Here's what I learned when I stopped looking at my phone before bed, and the advice I'd give to others looking to do the same.
Related: This Is the Most Important Habit To Have if You Want To Get 8 Hours of Sleep Tonight
Courtesy Beth Ann Mayer
In December, I literally wrote a story on how a neuropsychologist chooses not to scroll before bed (link below). In it, Dr. Sanam Hafeez, Psy. D., a New York-based neuropsychologist and director of Comprehend the Mind, told Parade, “The brain works those evening hours to change modes, calm emotions and ready memory systems for tomorrow morning. If someone is staying up late scrolling or working or worrying, that transition gets disrupted.”
Research also suggests that exposure to blue light before bed can affect sleep.
Related: ‘I’m a Neuropsychologist—Here’s the One Thing I Never, Ever Do Before Bed
Yet, after I injured my right hand, I became BFF with Dr. Google. After all, I needed to use it to figure out when I'd be able to type with two hands (I thought Googling the same thing multiple times on different days would bring me to the answer I wanted). I needed to keep tabs on all the news the powers that be in Washington and beyond were pushing out. Is AI coming for my job and kids' safety?
Plus, Bridgerton dropped a new season (comfort watch!), and I absolutely needed to know the backstory of every U.S. Olympic figure skater—those were bright spots, except not really. Regardless of what I consumed, my sleep went from bad to worse to nearly non-existent.
I knew that was an issue. Common wisdom holds that adults need at least seven hours of sleep per night. Heck, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, "Quality sleep—and getting enough of it at the right times—is as essential to survival as food and water. Without sleep, you can’t form or maintain the pathways in your brain that let you learn and create new memories."
Gulp. It was time to practice what all the experts I'm lucky enough to speak to daily preach. I needed a reset.
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I Quit My Phone Before Bed for 30 Days: Here's What Happened My phone is out of sight, out of mind.Courtesy Beth Ann Mayer
Not scrolling before bed had an immediate effect on my mental well-being and focus, but I had to roll up my sleeves and change some of my phone habits to make it happen. Here's how I stopped scrolling before bed for 30 days (and counting!) and the changes I've noticed.
1. I had to make a planWhen it comes to digital habits, I need to save myself from myself. I set email, social media, news and shopping apps to "0 minutes" after 8:30 p.m., and "bedtime mode" at 9 p.m. My family is with me, so I reassured myself that a phone wasn’t necessary to hear about emergencies.
I have long heard that putting your phone in another room can improve sleep, so I decided to dock mine in the kitchen. To reinforce this new habit, I also decided I'd "reward" myself by putting a check on my calendar each day I didn't look at my phone after 8:30 p.m.
Because I still have perfectionist tendencies, I wound up earning a check each night. In short, the strategy was effective.
Related: ‘I Tried a Brick To Spend Less Time on My Phone—and I’m Not Sure How I Ever Lived Without It’
2. I had to pivotKeeping my phone in a completely separate room didn't last long because Peloton's sleep meditations really help, and I found I was having a harder time getting to bed without them. So, I put my phone on the floor—out of sight and reach. I also made my Peloton app accessible. It's an important reminder that we're all individuals.
3. I felt more focused and cut back on caffeineWithin a few days, I noticed I was sleeping at least six hours (every bit counts!). While I was still a bit groggy, I was certainly less tired and distracted during working hours. I had been drinking three cups of coffee per day, but I cut back down to my usual two cups and felt so much less jittery without losing focus on energy.
Related: This Common Nutrient Deficiency Is Quietly Ruining Women’s Sleep
4. I fell asleep more easily without supplementsI've taken Melatonin to help me fall asleep faster. One week into my challenge of not looking at my phone before bed, I wanted to see if I could cut back, so I took 5 mg (2 gummies), then 3.75 mg (1.5 gummies). I had no issues falling asleep. Two weeks later, I went down to one gummy (2.5 mg). Not only did I fall asleep within 10 minutes of my head hitting the pillow, but I also found myself far less groggy the next day.
5. My mental well-being improvedThe more sleep I got, the better I felt. I am not going to lie here—I still had issues, including pain from my injury. But what I loved the most about getting more sleep after committing to less pre-bed screentime was the clarity it gave me about the next steps I needed to take to reduce stress and feel better—mind and body.
It's amazing what happens when you realize it's best to call or message your physical therapist with questions and overall stop living in an endless stream of horrific news.
6. My overall screen time declinedLast fall, my lack of screen time became a badge of honor. I cut my screen time to less than an hour per day—a far cry from the five hours of just a few years ago. I never quite got back to the (not great) five hours on screens daily, but I was over two hours and not comfortable with it.
When I stopped scrolling at night, I realized I was less inclined to lean on it as a crutch to numb out from reality during the day, back to around an hour daily. My daily phone pickups plummeted to under 40 minutes daily.
Related: A Psychotherapist Is Begging People To Stop Making This Common Mistake on Social Media
7. I read more (but have no idea what happened during Bridgerton)Since I wasn't scrolling or streaming Netflix, I went back to one of my favorite hobbies: reading physical books. I plowed through three books in a month. I suppose the downside is that I had to avoid Bridgerton spoilers, as my pace slowed while watching the show on my phone. But since my screen time was down, it wasn't that hard (I finally finished season 4 two days ago).
Related: This Common Supplement May Increase Your Risk of Heart Failure, According to Cardiologists
Final Tips and Takeways All the books I read since I didn't scrool.Courtesy Beth Ann Mayer
After my 30-day break from bedtime phone use, I was able to reset my sleep and reduce stress. If you want that for yourself, try some of these tips:
Experiment with phone locationYou may benefit from putting your phone outside the room. But if you use it for sleep sounds, putting it in a drawer, the floor or across the room can also work. Give yourself grace to do what works for you, even if it goes against the grain of the Internet.
Related: Wait, What's the Difference Between White Noise and Brown Noise? Experts Sound Off
Be curious about timingI am finding that logging off my phone for the night, 90 minutes or ideally two hours before bedtime, improves my sleep. You may be able to get by with less or need more. Try a few different times over a week or two and see what works best.
Hold yourself accountableSelf-boundaries are important but hard to keep. Consider gamifying your screentime habits with checkmarks for each time you meet your goals. A friend of mine sends another pal her screen time report each week, and I know others who use the Brick. I know people who make someone else set the code they need to break their screen time boundaries (and keep it a secret from them).
Related: I Took Magnesium Before Bed for 6 Months and It Completely Transformed My Sleep
Find a replacement habitI wasn't about to go to bed with my phone—the point was to give myself a buffer between putting it away and hitting the hay. Reading instead really helped distract me. I didn't “need” to walk over and get my device to beat boredom.
Related: 25 Best Short Books You Can Easily Read in a Day, According to Librarians
Manage expectationsNot looking at your phone before bed is an important step for logging more Zzzs, but it may not be a cure-all. Other habits, like stress management and meal timing, may also need work.
As for me, I am so proud of myself for getting my screen and sleep time back on track in 30 days that I am rewarding myself by keeping both habits. Sweeter dreams, everyone.
Up Next:
Related: Here's Exactly How To Track Your Sleep on Your Apple Watch
Sources:- Sleep and Cardiovascular Health: An Introduction to the Series. Circulation.
- Association Between Sleep Duration and Cognitive Decline. Geriatrics.
- The Triad of Sleep, Immunity, and Cancer: A Mediating Perspective. Cells.
- Impact of Exposure to Dim Light at Night on Sleep in Female and Comparison with Male Subjects. Psychiatric Investigation.
- Effects of pre-bedtime blue-light exposure on ratio of deep sleep in healthy young men. Sleep Medicine.
- Brain Basics: Understanding Sleep. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.
Beloved '90s Actress and Mother of 10-Time Grammy Award Winner Turns 67
One of the biggest pop stars' moms is celebrating her birthday.
Maggie Baird, best known as the mother of Billie Eilish and FINNEAS, is celebrating her 67th birthday on Sunday. The actress grew up in Colorado before attending the University of Utah to study dance and theater. She then moved to New York City to act in many Broadway and off-Broadway productions, before settling in Los Angeles to continue acting and teach at the Groundlings, a comedy troupe and improvisational theatre school. While at the Groundlings from 1994 to 2000, she trained and performed with various comedians, including Will Ferrell, Kristen Wiig and Melissa McCarthy.
She married actor Patrick O'Connell in 1995, had her two children and raised them in the Highland Park neighborhood of Los Angeles. The mother has been very active in her kids' careers, especially Eilish, accompanying her on tours, press events and shoots when she was a teenager. Baird also edited the music video for Eilish's song, "Six Feet Under."
In the 1990s and 2000s, Baird acted in many TV shows such as Murphy Brown, Bones, The X-Files and Six Feet Under, and provided the voice of Samara in the video game series Mass Effect. In addition, Baird released her debut studio album, We Sail, in 2009.
Maggie Baird onstage during the Billboard Live Music Summit at 1 Hotel West Hollywood on November 03, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.Rich Polk/Billboard via Getty Images
In addition to her acting endeavors, Baird is also a dedicated climate activist. In 2020, she founded Support and Feed, an organization that works to create an equitable, plant-based food system to address both food insecurity and environmental issues.
On Thursday, the mother of two revealed to PEOPLE that she is launching a cooking show titled Climate Kitchen, a "part-cooking show, part-lifestyle series, part-docuseries" that will feature Baird in her kitchen and across the country. The show will teach the audience how to make “delicious and affordable” plant-based meals and share tips on "sustainable living" and “stories from the climate front lines."
"I have been looking for a show like this for many years and having not found it," she told PEOPLE. Baird will serve as co-host and executive producer of the project. Her two kids, "who both love to cook now," are expected to also make guest appearances.
Billie Eilish and her mother Maggie Baird speak onstage during Overheated, a one-off climate activism event presented by Support + Feed and Billie Eilish at Flipper's Roller Boogie Palace on August 30, 2023 in London, England.Though Baird and her husband had been in Hollywood long before they started a family, Baird recently shut down the "nepo baby" allegations her kids were getting online after it was revealed she was featured in an episode of Friends. In a roundtable interview for Glamour that included the mothers of Selena Gomez, Travis Kelce and Beyonce, Baird thought it was "hilarious" when the clip resurfaced.
"Because that came out, and it was like, 'Oh, Billie is a nepo baby.' And I’m like, 'Did you know that I got that episode of Friends because I was about to lose my health insurance?'" she admitted. "My husband and I are working-class actors. We eked out a meager living, and it afforded us a lot of time with our kids, which was awesome. But the industry is primarily people like us, or even people not even like us, who couldn’t even do that. So when all of this happened to our kids, we’d never been on that side of it."
Nat Wolff, Patrick O'Connell, Billie Eilish, Maggie Baird, Finneas O'Connell and Claudia Sulewski attend the 68th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 01, 2026 in Los Angeles, California.Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for The Recording Academy
Despite the career Baird has built for herself, she is still best known as the mother of Billie Eilish. Now 24, the "Bad Guy" singer released her first song, "ocean eyes," when she was just 13 years old. Since her debut in 2015, she has put out three studio albums, which have all been nominated for multiple Grammy awards. Out of her 34 nominations, Eilish has won 10 of those, most recently for Song of the Year for "WILDFLOWER" at the 68th Annual Grammy Awards.
Her other child, Finneas O'Connell, is also a successful producer, songwriter and singer. He is the producer and co-songwriter for all of Eilish's songs, and has also worked with many singers, including Gomez, Drake, Halsey, Tate McRae and more. FINNEAS also has two solo albums of his own: Optimist (2021) and For Cryin' Out Loud (2024), as well as a new album with his duo The Favors with singer-songwriter Ashe, called The Dream, which was released last September.
Related: Billie Eilish Reacts to Brother’s Engagement Amid 'Hit Me Hard and Soft' Tour
’80s Rocker, With Major Hit Song, Requests Reunion Tour
In his first interview in five years, Bobby Blotzer, former drummer for iconic 1980s glam metal band Ratt, has revealed he wants a reunion tour. The admission came amid rumors that Mötley Crüe approached the original Ratt lineup to join a later leg of their 2026 anniversary tour, "The Return Of Carnival Of Sins."
When asked about the rumors during an interview with the Hair Metalo Guru, Blotzer did not shy away, sharing his perspective on the situation:
"I heard that from people. I think I saw something Nikki [Mötley Crüe bassist] wrote [on social media]—I can't remember—he's going, 'Yeah, we're trying to get bands [to join us on tour]. We're going round and round and round.' And if that's not a direct, like, 'Get your shit together or [expletive] off' to Ratt, I don't know what is. But that is a ticket that needs to happen, I think."
Portrait of Warren DeMartini, Robbin Crosby, Stephen Pearcy, Juan Croucier and Bobby Blotzer of Ratt at the Poplar Creek Music Theater in Hoffman Estates, Illinois, June 13, 1984.Blotzer continued, admitting that while he is no longer close with the members of Mötley Crüe due to differing lifestyles, he knows a joint tour is what fans would want.
"I'm not friends with those guys anymore, for no reason other than everybody's gone different ways. But it would be insane to have Mötley and Ratt go out. That would be a great double bill, for sure. People would love to see that," Blotzer said.
Since Ratt frontman Stephen Pearcy left in 1992, the original lineup of the group has yet to reunite for a tour or new music. The closest thing longtime fans have had to a reunion is a two-man act featuring Pearcy and former guitarist Warren performing Ratt's original catalog, while other original members focus on seperate projects.
Despite the lack of a full reunion, Pearcy admitted in a 2021 SiriusXM interview that there is no bad blood among the band, even hinting himself that he would be open to one last creative project.
"I do talk to Bobby,” Pearcy said. “It’s love-hate, brother kind of a thing. We keep in touch and talk about positive things. He still has interest [in a reunion]... And Warren is the same.”
Blotzer seems to share this sentiment, telling the Hair Metal Guru that after the band's 44th anniversary, a reunion would provide closure.
"Absolutely. Yeah, man. I need it. It's closure. I wanna say goodbye to the fans [who gave us] so much for so long. I just—I wouldn't say 'celebrated', but last week was 44 years since I joined Ratt, and that's when my son was born. He was one month old when I officially joined Ratt March 12th of '82."
Related: Iconic '80s Rock Band Guitarist Reveals Plans For New Album After 18 Years
‘Saturday Night Live’ Legend Cheri Oteri Is 63 and Stunning in Rare Red Carpet Appearance
Cheri Oteri was a comedy queen on Saturday Night Live, and the talented actress is just as perfect in a rare red carpet appearance in 2026.
Oteri, 63, who rose to fame on SNL with characters like Arianna of The Spartan Cheerleaders alongside Will Ferrell, Cass Van Rye on Morning Latte, and Nadeen, a disgruntled employee who told everyone to "Simmer down now," departed the iconic late-night series in 2000. In the years that followed, Oteri made endless TV and film appearances, but avoided the major spotlight that claimed many of her famous former co-stars.
Flash forward to 2026, and Oteri is looking better than ever. The beauty hit the red carpet for the Human Rights Campaign Los Angeles Dinner at Fairmont Century Plaza this week in Los Angeles, California, and stunned in a black slip dress. It's almost mindblowing to think that it's been 26 years since she left SNL, because she hasn't changed a bit!
Photo by Julian Hamilton on Getty Images
Why Did Cheri Oteri Leave SNL?Last year, Oteri told Entertainment Weekly that departing the series after the season 25 finale on May 20, 2000, was a difficult choice. However, it was the right one.
"I wanted to end on a high and not a low. It was one of the hardest decisions I've ever made," she told EW. "I thought, I can't quit. I'm not a quitter. Then my agent at the time said, it's not about you quitting, it's do you want to renew your contract? I think I could have stayed there for 10 years if it wasn't so hard."
While it was bittersweet to leave, Oteri said her decision not to return was "a part of taking care of myself."
"It was everything I ever wanted to do. I got to live my dream," she said. "I have no regrets whatsoever. I just feel nothing but gratitude."
What's Cheri Oteri up to These Days?SNL fans rejoiced when they heard that Oteri would guest star on an episode of Happy’sPlace that aired in December. The comedy queen took on a guest-starring role as a health inspector named Monica, TV Insider reported.
Check out a clip below:
'The King and I' Marks 75 Years Since Its Broadway Debut
Seventy-five years ago today, a musical opened on Broadway that almost didn't happen. The composer thought the lead actress couldn't sing. The actor cast as the King was an unexpected choice. And the woman who brought the whole project together wouldn't live long enough to see what it became.
The King and I premiered on March 29, 1951, at the St. James Theatre in New York. It was the fifth collaboration between Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II, coming off the heels of South Pacific, which had won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama. The pressure to follow that up was enormous. It rained in New York all day, then stopped just in time for curtain.
The show wasn't even Rodgers and Hammerstein's idea. Gertrude Lawrence, one of Broadway's biggest stars, wanted the role of Anna Leonowens — and her agent, Fanny Holtzmann, brought the project directly to them. Rodgers wasn't sold. He later wrote that while they "both admired Gertie," they thought her vocal range was "minimal" and that she "had never been able to overcome an unfortunate tendency to sing flat." But Lawrence came with the project, so they made it work.
Rodgers and Hammerstein's "The King and I" opened at NYC's St James Theater 74 years ago today on March 29, 1951, starring Yul Brynner & Gertrude Lawrence. It ran for 1,246 performances, winning 5 Tony Awards; Yul Brynner would also star in the 1956 film version of course :) #otd pic.twitter.com/E9DlLKmiL4
— Classic Movie Hub (@ClassicMovieHub) March 29, 2025Then there was Yul Brynner. Born in Vladivostok and working as a TV director in New York, Brynner landed the audition after Broadway star Mary Martin pushed Rodgers and Hammerstein to see him. They signed him for $300 a week, a fraction of what Lawrence was making, and buried his billing below the title. But on opening night, none of that mattered. Brynner walked onstage and quickly became one of the show’s standout performers.
Publicity photos of Yul Brynner (The King) and Gertrude Lawrence (Anna) for Broadway’s “The King and I” in 1951. pic.twitter.com/siojrnEssY
— Aurora (@CitizenScreen) July 5, 2024According to Rodgers & Hammerstein’s official production history, Brooks Atkinson of The New York Times called it “an original and beautiful excursion.” The show won five Tony Awards — Best Musical, Best Actress for Lawrence, Best Featured Actor for Brynner, plus Scenic and Costume Design. It ran for 1,246 performances over nearly three years.
But Lawrence didn't get to see most of it. She'd been dealing with ongoing health issues throughout rehearsals and the run, and by fall 1952, it was liver cancer. She reportedly left one final instruction for her agent: "About the play — see that Yul gets star billing. He has earned it." She died September 6, 1952, at 54.
Yul Brynner, The King and I
(1956, Walter Lang) pic.twitter.com/HEjlFitFQ2
Brynner took the top billing and never let go. Over the next 34 years, he played the King more than 4,625 times on Broadway and on tour. He also starred in the 1956 film opposite Deborah Kerr, which won five Academy Awards, including Best Actor for Brynner. He received a special Tony in 1985 recognizing his long-running performance.
@fiftiesdailyDeborah Kerr and Yul Brynner dancing in ‘The King and I’ (1956)❤️#oldhollywood #movie #fyp #fashiontok #goldenageofhollywood #deborahkerr #1950sfashion #thekingandi #musical #filmtok #movieclips #foryoupagе #shallwedance #yulbrynner #victorian #dance #disney #oldhollywoodglamour #ritamoreno #vintagestyle #oldhollywoodstars #victorianfashion #goldenage #irenesharaff #oldhollywoodmovies #cinderella #oldfilm #classic #hollywood #1800s #goldenagehollywood #dancing #victorianstyle #eveningdress #ballgown #film #fypp #moviescenes #ballgowndress #opera #1800saesthetic
♬ original sound - FiftiesdailyHe died on October 10, 1985 — just over three months after his final curtain call.
The musical has been revived on Broadway four times. Every single one won Tony Awards, including the 2015 Lincoln Center Theater production starring Kelli O'Hara and Ken Watanabe.
Cuffed Jeans Are Trending for Spring—a Celebrity Stylist Shares the 7 Best Ways To Style Them
Styling denim in any season can feel overwhelming if you don't have the right guidance. For starters, there are so many options to choose from—whether that's a straight-leg or baggy jean—the world is your oyster. But, as we move into spring and are able to wear looks that are a bit more breezy and casual, celebrity stylists say there's one style of denim that's about to be everywhere: cuffed jeans.
While cuffed jeans never truly left the chat, they're making a comeback in a big way this season because they're so versatile and easy to style. Professional stylists say this style is here to stay because so many celebrities have co-signed the trend. Everyone, from Anne Hathaway to Jennifer Lopez and Sabrina Carpenter, has been spotted wearing cuffed jeans over the past few months, so the demand is only going to increase. Celebrity stylist Julie Matosis a big fan of this style and shares the seven best ways to style cuffed jeans for the coming months.
Luckily, cuffed jeans go with a variety of tops and shoes. For starters, Matos is a fan of classic favorites like sneakers or ankle boots. That's the beauty of styling this silhouette—they can be dressed up for a work setting or dressed down casually for running errands and going to dinner. Whether you're looking to try this trend out for the first time or just want new ways to style an old favorite pair of jeans, keep reading.
Related: 7 Best Jeans Styles for Women Over 50, According to Celebrity Stylists
How To Wear Cuffed JeansCuffed jeans are extremely versatile, making them a great option to keep your spring wardrobe fresh.
"You can go sleek and minimalist, casual and street-ready, or even office-smart depending on your top and shoes," says Matos, who's worked with celebs such as The Hunger Games and Game of Thrones actress Natalie Dormer and comedian Chelsea Handler. "The cuff instantly adds structure to the bottom of your jeans and frames your footwear, so it's a subtle way to elevate any outfit."
What's her favorite way to wear them?
"Personally, I love pairing them with heeled ankle boots, classic loafers or clean sneakers that make the cuff feel deliberate rather than accidental," she shares.
Are Cuffed Jeans Still in Style in 2026?If you're unsure whether cuffed jeans are a dated trend, have no fear: Matos says this is a classic and timeless style of denim that will always be in.
"I've seen them everywhere on street style, especially during fashion weeks," she tells Parade. "They're trending in a way that's intentional, polished and still effortless. The big trend right now is using cuffs to highlight your shoes, show off your ankle or give a little nod to that '90s/Y2K vibe without it feeling dated."
Related: 9 Best Petite Jeans for Women, According to Celebrity Stylists
What Shoes Look Best With Cuffed Jeans?You can wear any shoes you want with cuffed jeans, really, but Matos has a few particular shoe types that she loves to pair with cuffed jeans.
- Heeled ankle boots: "They elongate the leg and the cuff frames them perfectly. I wear this combo a ton," she says.
- Classic sneakers: "White or neutral sneakers give that cool, urban energy and feel effortless," the celebrity stylist states.
- Loafers: "Instantly smart, they elevate denim into a refined, polished look," she says.
- Combat boots or chunky boots: "These add attitude and street-style edge," she shares.
Related: 8 Best Ways To Style Ankle Boots Over 40, According to a Celebrity Stylist
How To Wear Cuffed Jeans With SneakersWearing cuffed jeans with sneakers is one of Matos's favorite ways to style the look. She shares a few easy-to-execute ways to pair your sneakers with this type of denim below.
- Clean single cuff: "One thick cuff, super simple. I do this with straight or vintage denim and a sleek sneaker," Matos says. "Feels very off-duty, but polished."
- Micro roll: "A few tiny, imperfect rolls. Nothing too precise," she shares. "I love this with slimmer jeans and a little ankle showing—very effortless."
- Inside fold: "I fold the hem in instead of out. It gives that clean, tailored crop with zero bulk, especially good with chunkier sneakers," she notes.
- Statement cuff: "Wider cuff, done on purpose. Works best with rigid denim," she suggests. "I’ll usually throw on a blazer with this instant look."
- One cuff a little higher than the other: "Subtle, but it makes it feel styled, not try-hard," she shares.
As for top styling with your cuffed jeans, Matos says there are a few staple styles that always work without fail. This doesn't mean that you can't wear other top styles with cuffed jeans, but these are her top picks when styling her celebrity clients.
- Crisp button-downs or blazers: "These are great for smart-casual or work-ready outfits," she says.
- Cropped sweaters or jackets: "Perfect for showing off the waistline and balancing proportion," she states.
- Graphic tees or simple white tees: "These styles keep it casual but polished if paired with a cuff and the right shoe," the celebrity stylist shares.
- Flowy blouses: "Adds a soft contrast to structured denim, especially for spring and summer," she says.
Related: 7 Best Ways To Style Wide-Leg Jeans at Any Age, According to a Stylist
How To Keep Jeans CuffedMatos also has a few tips for keeping your jeans cuffed all day. For starters, she recommends the double-fold method and a quick steam; this will ensure they stay all day.
Another hack is to try adding small pieces of fashion tape inside. "No one knows!" she says.
Next, she recommends rolling the cuff slightly over your sock or, if you're more of a DIYer, using a hair elastic under the cuff for grip.
"It should hit right at the top of your sneaker with a little ankle (or sock) showing," she adds. "If it feels too perfect, mess it up once—that's the look!"
Related: Here's Exactly How To Style Barrel Jeans in 2026
7 Best Ways To Style Cuffed Jeans, According to a Celebrity Stylist1. Sleek and minimalisticEdward Berthelot/Getty Images
A simple Canadian tuxedo or basic bodysuit always looks flattering when styling cuffed jeans.
"I love a super clean, Parisian-inspired look," Matos says. "Think a fitted black turtleneck tucked into straight, cuffed jeans with black heeled ankle boots. The cuff frames the boots perfectly and gives the outfit a polished, intentional vibe."
As a pro tip, she says to add a thin belt to define your waist and throw a simple gold necklace to elevate the look without making it feel overdone.
2. Modern bohoEdward Berthelot/Getty Images
This type of look is a favorite spring/summer combo for Matos.
"Loose cuffed jeans with a flowy blouse and strappy sandals [is a look that's] breezy, chic, and effortless," she explains. "The cuff keeps the proportions balanced and highlights your footwear. Keep the cuff moderate so it doesn't add bulk, and pick soft, lightweight fabrics to contrast with the structured denim."
3. Smart-casual edgeEdward Berthelot/Getty Images
If you like a work-appropriate outfit with added personal flair, cuffed jeans can take you there. Matos likes to call this type of look "smart and casual, but with an edge.
"Pair grey cuffed jeans with a crisp white button-down or blazer and loafers," she suggests. "The cuff adds a modern touch that makes the outfit look styled, not accidental. A single cuff is enough—don't overdo it. Roll sleeves or slightly tuck the top to keep the outfit balanced."
4. Denim-on-denimEdward Berthelot/Getty Images
Like Matos mentioned above, denim-on-denim is one of the best ways to style cuffed jeans. But there are a few things to keep in mind here.
"Double denim works if done right," she notes. "Dark wash cuffed jeans with a washed denim button-up and gold earrings [work well]. The cuff keeps the bottom clean and shows off your shoes. I love loafers or ankle boots here. Make sure the washes are different so the look feels intentional, not matchy-matchy."
Related: 7 Best Ways To Style a Jean Jacket, According to a Celebrity Stylist
5. Effortless street styleEdward Berthelot/Getty Images
Matos says that effortless and easy is the name of the game for everyday styling.
"A casual graphic tee tucked into cuffed jeans with sneakers or combat boots is my go-to when I want comfort with style," she shares. "The cuff gives structure to relaxed jeans and frames whatever shoe you choose."
Want to elevate this effortless look just a bit?
"As a pro tip, add a crossbody bag or sunglasses for street-style polish. Accessories really make the difference."
6. Power chic305pics/Getty Images
For meetings and office days, Matos says to go for a look that's "power chic." She explains a bit more about what this entails.
"Cuffed jeans can absolutely feel office-ready," she shares. "Pair them with a navy pinstripe double-breasted blazer and pointed loafers. It's a modern way to wear jeans in a smart-casual or creative work setting. Keep accessories minimal—let the cuff and blazer do the talking. A simple watch or gold hoop adds just enough polish."
7. Elevated casualEdward Berthelot/Getty Images
There are ways to keep your look simple and classy, but elevated. Matos says that mixing timeless staples, accessories and cuffed jeans is an easy way to achieve this.
"Cuffed jeans, a crisp white tee, gold earrings and sunglasses [are perfect]," she adds. "Finish with ankle boots or sleek sneakers. They're easy to wear anywhere and are effortless, but put together. A little cuff goes a long way. It subtly shows off shoes and keeps proportions clean. Roll once or twice, depending on your jeans' length."
Up Next:
Related: 7 Best Jeans for Curvy Women, According to Celebrity Stylists
Source:- Julie Matos is a celebrity stylist who has worked with celebs such as The Hunger Games and Game of Thrones actress Natalie Dormer and comedian Chelsea Handler.
Walmart's 'Lightweight' $18 Sleep Cardigan Is Perfect for Spring Lounging and Comes in 8 Pretty Colors
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Cozy days and nights call for next-level cozy attire! While you may have the go-to sweaters that you grab as you head out the door, the Dakimoe Sleep Cardigan was specifically made for those off-duty moments when you’re curled up on the couch or turning in for the night. Soft, fluffy, and just a bit oversized, this cardigan is destined to become one of your favorites once you experience its comfort!
It's an exceptional deal right now at Walmart, reduced from its usual $31 to just $18 in your choice of eight colors. Love a neutral? Shades like beige, black, camel, taupe, and gray are perfect for pairing with virtually anything, while pink, navy, and green add a little pop to your lounging looks. Can't decide? No problem. At this price, you can stock up without breaking the bank.
Dakimoe Sleep Cardigan, $18 (was $31) at Walmart Shop at WalmartAvailable in sizes small to XXL, the cardigan boasts a loose fit — and you can always size up if you prefer it even roomier. It's cut for comfort, measuring 30 inches in length so it falls below the hip. That makes it an ideal partner for anything from pajamas to joggers to leggings. While it's definitely designed for laid-back days relaxing or working from home, you might be tempted to throw it on for a quick errand run or neighborhood stroll, too.
Made from 100% polyester, it's a soft option to throw on whether you're unwinding at night or puttering around the house on a day off. Many shoppers commented on its especially snuggly feel. If you're always cold or you just want an easy layering piece you can slip into when it gets a little brisk, this is a great choice!
"Fashionable and toasty," one customer wrote, adding that they’re versatile enough to use as a bed jacket yet “attractive enough to wear over a turtleneck with jeans or slacks and go to dinner."
Another person wrote, "Super soft and so cozy. This is the softest jacket I have ever worn!"
With the holidays coming up fast, this cozy sweater would also make an excellent gift for any loungewear lover in your life. With so many sizes and hues to choose from, there's an option for just about everyone.
Shop More Deals- Mintreus Lounge Set, $18 (was $31) at Walmart
- Ablanczoom Memory Foam Slippers, $12 (were $21) at Walmart
- Joniyear Bubble Blanket, From $32 (was $36) at Walmart
Now is a great time to elevate your lounging wardrobe. Don't miss the Dakimoe Sleep Cardigan while it's available in your preferred size and color combination at Walmart! The bestseller may move fast at only $18.
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Victoria Konefal Honors Her 'Days of Our Lives' Training While Taking on the World of Horror
Former Days of Our Lives star Victoria Konefal (Ciera Brady) is opening up about the differences between working in daytime television and filming horror movies.
In a recent interview with CineDump, Konefal reflected on her experience in film and compared it to her time on the long-running Peacock soap opera.
She first pointed to the difference in work schedules. “Filming a movie, you film really long days, but there's a lot of downtime,” she said.
Konefal also highlighted the difference in daily output. “On average, on a movie you film between 7 to 11 pages a day,” she shared. “If it's a 12-page day, you did a really good job.”
The pace stands in stark contrast to daytime television. “On a soap, we do like 80 pages a day,” she said. “It's very fast-paced.”
She explained that soap actors must come to set fully prepared. “There's not much room for error on a soap,” she said. In comparison, film allows for more flexibility. “With a movie, we really get to take our time, do as many takes as necessary for the right take. It's also a lot more technical in terms of direction and shots and camera work.”
Konefal added that soap production tends to follow a consistent structure. “On a soap set, everything is already set up. The cameras are on the ground,” she said. “Everyone has kind of a rinse and repeat cycle versus actually taking your time with it.”
Konefal is best known for her Daytime Emmy-winning portrayal of Ciera Alice Brady on Days of Our Lives, the daughter of iconic supercouple Bo (Peter Reckell) and Hope (Kristian Alfonso). She played the role on and off beginning in 2017, with her most recent appearance airing in 2025. She also reprised the role in the spinoff Days of Our Lives: Beyond Salem in 2021 and 2022.
In addition to her time on the soap opera, she has appeared in films such as Circus Kane, Deadly Exchange, Fog City, and most recently Scared to Death.
Days of Our Lives streams weekdays on Peacock.
Before the Firefly Revival, Jewel Staite Revealed Why the Cast Never Really Left Each Other
Last spring, Jewel Staite sat down with actress and podcast host Katee Sackhoff and told her she's been asked if there was going to be a 'second season' for almost 25 years.
She was talking about Firefly, the sci-fi western that Fox canceled after a single season in 2002. She said it the way someone says something they've made peace with. Then, almost exactly a year later, Nathan Fillion knocked on her door.
She described the bond among the Firefly ensemble as something that had 'never really been broken' across two and a half decades. She called the original production 'a blip in a lifetime', six months of shooting, start to finish, and seemed genuinely amazed that something so short had left such a long shadow.
'Lightning in a bottle,' she said. She spoke about the fandom as keeping the show 'living on in another dimension,' kept alive by people who simply refused to let it go. And she talked about her castmates the way people talk about family. 'We would do anything for each other,' she said. 'We've always been there for each other.'
That solid bond helps explain why a year later, the entire surviving main cast happily agreed to come back together to (hopefully) continue the story.
On March 15, 2026, at AwesomeCon in Washington, D.C., Fillion announced that an animated Firefly series is in advanced development, with the original cast returning to voice their characters. Staite is among them, back as Kaylee Frye, the ship's warm-hearted, coverall-wearing mechanic. Also returning: Alan Tudyk, Gina Torres, Morena Baccarin, Sean Maher, Summer Glau, and Adam Baldwin. The project is being developed through Fillion's production company Collision33 in partnership with 20th Television Animation, with showrunners Marc Guggenheim and Tara Butters, a married couple who first met while working on the original series, already having completed a first episode script. Animation studio ShadowMachine, which has Emmy and Oscar wins to its name, is attached.
The series still needs a streaming home before production can begin. Fillion has urged fans to boost the signal on social media to help it find a home. Fan organizations are mobilizing to get it done, and we’ll be following the progress in the coming weeks and months.
Staite also touched on why Firefly has stayed on every great science fiction list for over two decades, always near the top, often at it. Part of it, she suggested, is the brevity itself. New fans can watch the entire run in a weekend. They reach the end and want more. They have always wanted more. The fans who kept asking at convention tables and in comment sections for 25 years were not wrong, it turned out, to keep asking.
The animated series has Joss Whedon's blessing, Fillion confirmed this at the announcement, though Whedon is not involved in the production. The creative direction belongs to Guggenheim and Butters. Where it lands is still to be determined.
But the crew of Serenity is back together. Kaylee included. Everyone have a strawberry to celebrate!
Is There a New Episode of 'Tracker' Tonight? (March 29, 2026)
There's only one thing that fans look forward to on Sunday evenings—new episodes of Tracker.
With our weekly TV appointment set, catching up with Justin Hartley's Colter Shaw and helping him solve cases and bring justice is our way of winding down after a busy weekend, and forgetting all about those Sunday scaries.
When the drama, centered around a lone-wolf survivalist and rewardist, doesn't air new episodes, it changes the entire dynamic of the night, which is why fans want to know if there will be a new episode on March 29, 2026.
The good news is, there's plenty more to come.
Is there a new episode of Tracker tonight?Yes, there is a new episode of Tracker on Sunday, March 29, 2026. Tracker Season 3 Episode 14, titled "The Field Trip," will premiere at 9/8 CT on CBS.
What is tonight’s episode of Tracker about?The case of the week takes Colter to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where he assists a desperate father in finding his missing son.
The official synopsis for "Field Trip" proves it will also be a gripping, high-stakes episode, which fans have come to expect from the series.
"When a young boy disappears during a school field trip at the aquarium, Colter must navigate a volatile father’s desperation to find his son," the longline reads.
Related: Who Plays Virgil Dean on ‘Tracker’? Here’s Why He Looks So Familiar
Tracker Season 3 Episode 14 cast and guest starsHartley will appear as Colter Shaw, along with the regulars—Colter's tech whiz, ChrisLee, who plays Randy and was just upped to a series regular for season 4.
Fiona Rene's Reenie and Cassady McClincy Zhang's Mel Day will also appear on Tracker Season 3 Episode 14.
The guest stars include Elyse Levesque (Stargate Universe) as Sara, Luvia Peterson (Continuum and Ghost Wars) as Detective Monroe and Paradise star Jon Beavers as James.
How Many Episodes of Tracker Season 3 Left?Don't worry, there's still plenty of Tracker episodes this season. We're currently on the 14th episode in the season, but there will be a total of 21, with the season 3 finale scheduled for May 17, 2026.
You can watch Tracker on CBS or live and on demand with a Paramount+ subscription.
This Sam’s Club Bakery Tray Is Reason Enough to Host Brunch
With sunny days and warmer weather finally here, it’s the perfect time to invite friends and family over for a weekend brunch. And Sam’s Club’s latest breakfast tray is a pretty good reason to do exactly that.
This returning favorite is back with fresh new flavors that fit right into the season. Whether you’re planning a laid-back Sunday get-together or putting together an Easter spread, this bakery find makes it easy to serve something everyone will want a piece of.
You can see it in this March 24 Instagram from @samsclubfoodreview:
View this post on InstagramEach tray comes with eight of each flavor, so there’s plenty to go around. The lineup includes strawberry delight, a strawberry cake topped with a layer of strawberry icing, blueberry streusel with a buttery crumb topping and baked-in berries, and a lemon raspberry cake with a bright yellow base and a red berry swirl. There’s also a tuxedo-style chocolate swirl made with rich cocoa cake and a cream cheese ribbon, plus a classic cinnamon crumb that pairs perfectly with coffee.
Related: This New Sam’s Club Bakery Loaf Is Perfect for Soup Night
Excited shoppers shared their thoughts. Viewer @morganchomps commented, “Whoa, the chocolate swirl!! Yum!” While @samsclub_doesitagain noted, “Oh, those look good, especially warmed up!” And @the_cerealqueen shared, “I never knew this was a thing! I love the variety, especially the cinnamon crumb.”
Sam’s Club Bakery Breakfast Tray Offers Variety and Value for SpringBeyond the flavor lineup, the value is hard to ignore. You get 40 generously sized pieces for $20.98. Baking that kind of variety from scratch would take time, and picking up more than three dozen pastries from a bakery would undoubtedly cost far more. Whether you’re hosting a spring brunch, planning an Easter breakfast, or bringing in treats to share at the office, this tray offers both convenience and variety.
A classic brunch spread with pastries and glasses of champagne.Image via Shutterstock/Chiociolla
If you’d rather keep the entire pastry tray to enjoy yourself, it’s easy to make it last. The individual pieces can be wrapped and stored in an airtight, freezer-safe container, so you can pull one out whenever you’re in the mood for something sweet.
No special occasion on the calendar? This Member’s Mark pastry tray might be the only reason you need to get everyone together.
'Today' Co-anchor Dylan Dreyer Is Getting Her Own Show
Today co-anchor Dylan Dreyer is getting her own show in the form of a new podcast called The Parent Chat, the NBC morning show journalist recently announced.
On March 26, Dreyer revealed the exciting news on her Instagram Stories. She declared that she was "so excited" about the podcast, per Hello! magazine, also noting that the first episode premieres on Thursday, April 2.
A description of The Parent Chat offered more information about the podcast for curious fans.
"You know her as Today’s candid third hour host," it began. "But Dylan Dreyer is also a mom of 3 boys in New York City, trying to figure out the big stuff: how to raise kind, confident, resilient kids and keep her sanity along the way. And like every parent, sometimes she needs…HELP!"
The description continued, "On The Parent Chat, Dylan calls in reinforcements—from parenting experts with big advice to fellow working moms that can help all parents feel less alone. Because parenting doesn’t come with a manual, but it can come with a group chat."
New episodes of The Parent Chat With Dylan Dreyer will premiere every Thursday.
Related: Savannah Guthrie Announces Today Return Date After Mom Nancy’s Abduction
View this post on InstagramIn addition to co-hosting the third hour of Today alongside Al Roker and Craig Melvin and her role as a mother, Dreyer, 44, is the co-host of the radio show Off the Rails with Roker and Sheinelle Jones. The mom of three also co-hosted a radio series, Lunch Date With Dylan and Brian, with her soon-to-be ex-husband, Brian Fichera.
Dreyer filed for divorce from Fichera in March. They had been married since 2012 and share three sons: Calvin, 8, Oliver, 6, and Russell, aka "Rusty," 4.
Next: Today Announces Major Shake-Up With Co-Anchor Exiting After 22 Years
Lucille Ball’s Final TV Appearance Was 37 Years Ago Tonight
Thirty-seven years ago tonight, Lucille Ball walked onto the stage at the 61st Academy Awards. It was the last time she'd ever appear on television.
On March 29, 1989, Ball joined her longtime friend Bob Hope at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles to introduce a segment celebrating "the stars of tomorrow." The lineup included Patrick Dempsey, Ricki Lake, Corey Feldman, Blair Underwood, Chad Lowe, Tracy Nelson, Keith Coogan, and Corey Parker. The audience gave them a standing ovation.
Getting Ball there hadn't been easy. Hope had to call the I Love Lucy star repeatedly before she finally agreed. She hated the wig she'd picked out — the netting gave her "a goddamn headache," according to Mental Floss — and wasn't thrilled about the whole production. "Goddamn Hope," she reportedly said. "No one cares what the hell he looks like, but everybody cares what I look like. God, I'm so tired of myself."
She showed up anyway.
Ball closed the segment by introducing choreographer Kenny Ortega — a moment often cited as her final words on television.
Less than three weeks later, Ball began experiencing severe chest pains. She underwent emergency open-heart surgery on April 18 and initially appeared to be recovering. On April 26, 1989, she died from a ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm. She was 77. President George H.W. Bush posthumously awarded her the Presidential Medal of Freedom later that year.
One of the most touching details from her final days came from her close friend Carol Burnett.
In January, the 92-year-old comedian sat down for Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson's IMO Podcast and shared her last memory of Ball. "She always sent me flowers on my birthday," Burnett said. "And I got up one morning, and she had died on my birthday. And I got flowers that afternoon."
The card read: "Happy birthday, kid."
Amazon's 'Sleek and Modern' C-Shaped Side Table Set Is Just $40 During Its Big Spring Sale
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Having a small living room or a cramped bedroom can mean struggling with clutter and limited surface area. You need places to set down a drink or the remote, hold your laptop or a lamp, and stack books, but larger tables often won't fit. Amazon has an end table set that solves this problem beautifully with a clever, space-saving design — and right now, you can snag it at a discount during the Big Spring Sale.
The Amhancible C-Shaped Side Table Set is currently on sale for just $40, down from its usual $60 price. With more than 1,600 five-star reviews to vouch for its quality and convenience, this set has recently skyrocketed in popularity, with over 1,000 purchased in the last month alone. Both rustic brown and dark gray are available at this price, so you can choose which color best fits your home's aesthetic and get two tables for just $20 per piece with this deal.
Amhancible C-Shaped Side Table Set, $40 (was $60) at Amazon Shop at AmazonThese tables feature a wood-grain finish and powder-coated black metal legs, giving them an elegant look that blends with many decor styles from farmhouse to contemporary. The C-shaped design with compact dimensions means they're easy to slide partially under a couch, bed, or chair.
The tables can support up to 22 pounds, making them ideal for holding a lamp, books, remotes, and drinks, using them as workstations, or using them as tray tables to enjoy meals. They're lightweight but sturdy and can be moved around whenever you need to place things within reach of where you're sitting. Shoppers who used the tables with large sectional sofas or recliners, and those who needed a readily accessible bedside table, especially appreciated these features.
Shoppers with small spaces said they are "versatile, reliable side tables" that can make any room "more functional without taking up extra space." They described the look as "rustic," and the compact design as "sleek and modern."
Several reviewers raved about how simple these tables are to assemble. One was pleased that the manufacturer "actually thought about the customer putting it together," and noted that the entire process took under 10 minutes.
Shop More Deals- Xnsdxv Adjustable-Height End Table, $40 (was $68) at Amazon
- Vagusicc Round Side Table With Storage Basket, $36 (was $45) at Amazon
- Hoobro Rustic Side Table With Charging Station Set, $40 (was $50) at Amazon
Now just $40, the Amhancible C-Shaped Side Table Set delivers excellent value and functionality at just $20 per piece. Amazon's Big Spring Sale ends March 31, so be sure to add this set to your cart while this deal is still available!
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