Parade

When Nadia Bjorlin joined the cast of Days of Our Lives in 1999 as Chloe Lane she quickly became a fan favorite.

Since making her acting debut on the soap opera, Bjorlin, 46, has left and returned to the show several times, having runs from 1999 to 2005, 2007 to 2011, and 2015 to 2023. The last fans saw of Chloe on their TV screens, she was headed to New York City with Philip and her son Parker.

In a recent interview, Bjorlin revealed that she was asked once again to reprise her role on Days of Our Lives, but had to turn it down.

“What I can confirm is that they did ask me,” Bjorlin said. “But logistically, it just didn’t make sense.”

She went on to add, “TV now and budgets and whatnot… It just didn’t make any sense, and I said no.”

Despite disappointment from fans, Bjorlin has a good reason for not coming back. She currently lives in Ireland with her husband Grant Turnbull, and their two sons, while Days films in Los Angeles.

View this post on Instagram

Now rumor has it, Chloe’s character is being recasted, and Bjorlin has nothing but kind words for whoever is stepping into her shoes.

“It’s a different chapter of my life,” Bjorlin shared. “I wish another actor all the best, obviously, and whatnot, if that was their decision…. It’s OK. I’m OK because they did ask me and I said no.”

While she might not be returning to Salem, she is still acting, recently starring in the film, A Murder Between Friends. She is also set to star in the upcoming romance drama, Veronica & Julian, alongside another Days alum, Kyler Pettis.

And if we know anything about soap operas, there is always a chance Bjorlin will return in the future as Chloe Lane. Fingers crossed!

Quiz Show, a film based on the real-life scandal that rocked television in the 1950s, plays out like a taut thriller—not with physical danger, but with high-stakes trivia and the threat of a shocking scandal being exposed. And according to Rotten Tomatoes, it’s one of the greatest movies of all time.

First released in New York on Sept. 14, 1994, Quiz Show marked Robert Redford’s fourth directorial outing, and like its predecessors, which include Ordinary People and A River Runs Through It, the film was a critical smash, with the Chicago Tribune saying it “hums, purrs, and shines,” while the Los Angeles Times called it “impressive,” the Boston Globe called it “a class act.” Vulture called it “remarkably entertaining.”

View this post on Instagram

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

A masterclass in tension and character study, the film dramatizes the true-life rigging of the 1950s NBC television game show Twenty-One. When the show’s producers pressure their reigning champion, Herb Stempel (John Turturro), to take a deliberate dive, Charles Van Doren (Ralph Fiennes), an intellectual charmer and Columbia University instructor with a prestigious pedigree, takes his place. Meanwhile, congressional investigator Dick Goodwin (Rob Morrow) starts to smell something fishy.

“I watched Van Doren because he was rising, rising, rising, and he had this kind of … there was an arrogance about him,” Redford told Interview. “Yet he feigned a kind of innocence. And as I watched him coming up with these incredible answers, the actor in me said, ‘I don’t buy it.’ I remember that vividly. But what’s weird is that I never doubted the show.”

He added, “I didn’t take it to the next step and say, ‘The show’s rigged, it’s all bullsh-t.’ I just didn’t; I couldn’t. That’s how innocent I was. Because, as yet, we had not had an event in our history that had devastated our belief like this experience would. And when the scandal hit, I remember some slight feeling of vindication.”

The deception on the small screen went far beyond giving players the answers to the show’s quiz questions. Producers also coached contestants on how to perform for the cameras. Everything from pauses and hesitations to wiping their brows and pretending to struggle to remember answers was an illusion. The result was a carefully manipulated show that had millions of viewers completely snowed as they gripped the edges of their seats.

Despite the storyline’s scandal that stunk to high heaven, the film itself came up roses. The following year, Quiz Show was nominated for four Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Director. Redford ultimately lost to Robert Zemeckis, whose crowd-pleaser, Forrest Gump, took top prize.

In other real-life news, the picture wasn’t so pretty for the story’s characters, who faced major consequences in their careers, public standing, and personal lives. Van Doren, who won $129,000 before his confession, resigned from his teaching post. And Stempel, who took home $49,500 on the show, spent years living with the stigma of being the disgruntled former contestant and whistleblower.

Goodwin, however, rode the positive momentum into national politics and became a prominent White House speechwriter for Presidents John F. Kennedy and Lyndon B. Johnson. The fallout and congressional hearings also exposed the friction between the networks and producers who controlled the show.

Still, Quiz Show has only grown in stature with time. Currently sitting at a 97% critics score and an 87% from audiences, the film has also earned a place on several best-movies lists across the internet. From Rotten Tomatoes’ Best Movies of All Time to Letterboxd’s Greatest Movies You Haven’t Seen, the movie has evolved into a revered, albeit possibly overlooked, classic praised for brilliant performances and genius direction.

Related: 1979 Movie, Starring Robert Redford, Launched a Music Legend’s Acting Career—and Gave Him His Fifth No. 1

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

While summer’s coming to an end, that doesn’t mean that you can’t have sunshine-filled energy in your home anymore. If you want your living space to feel warm and breezy all year round, you should fill it with pieces that lend themselves to the Mediterranean aesthetic. This trend captures the essence of a slow-paced coastal lifestyle, comprised of artisanal home decor, warm and earthy hues, and natural, rustic materials. 

@theneutraledit.in

There’s nothing like a mediterranean style home #mediterranean #coast #interior #interiordesign #summer

♬ original sound – theneutraledit.interiors

Sometimes the smallest touches can make all the difference in your home, and this Sanmadrola 3-Piece Ceramic Vase Set at Walmart is a prime example. Rather than shelling out thousands on a complete renovation, snag this vase set to instantly bring Mediterranean charm to your living space. Right now, you can score it on sale for nearly 50% off. Normally retailing for $40, it’s now marked down to just $22 in two styles: a tan, taupe, and white combination, and a black, taupe, and blue combination. 

Sanmadrola 3-Piece Ceramic Vase Set, $22 (was $40) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Featuring various colors and shapes, this vase set looks like a carefully curated collection. All three pieces have similar vibes and feel cohesive, yet stand out on their own. They’re all different sizes, with the small vase measuring 3.9 inches tall and wide, the medium one measuring 4.5 inches tall and 3.1 inches wide, and the largest piece measuring 8.3 inches tall and 3.1 inches wide. 

Both the small and medium vases have spherical bodies. However, the small vase has a short neck, while the medium one has a smaller body and a longer neck that subtly flares out. Completing the set, the large vase also has soft, curved lines, but boasts a bottle-like silhouette. The bottom section is even and tapers near the top, transitioning to a narrow neck. 

With their earthy tones, these vases nail the Mediterranean aesthetic and will effortlessly elevate your living space. They’re made of ceramic with a matte finish, giving them a natural clay-like appearance. Placed anywhere in your home, they’ll add a touch of quiet luxury to the room. You can use them to accent your kitchen counter, dining table, console, bookcase, or anywhere else that could use some sprucing up. 

Sanmadrola 3-Piece Ceramic Vase Set, $22 (was $40) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Lined with a waterproof coating, these vases are ideal for fresh flowers. You can also put in faux plants as a low-maintenance option. If you’re going for the Mediterranean look, fill them up with olive branches, eucalyptus, lavender, or pampas grass. However, these vases are gorgeous on their own, so you could even leave them empty. 

“These decorative vases are beautiful and perfect for adding a little elegance and personality to a table, shelf, or centerpiece,” one Walmart reviewer raved. A second shopper commented that they’re “so pretty with their earthy colors and beautiful ceramic.” A third customer described them as “classy and timeless.” 

Shop More Deals 

• Sanmadrola 100-Piece Pampas Grass Set, From $11 (was $18) at Walmart
• Better Homes & Gardens Faux Olive Plant With Vase, $15 (was $19) at Walmart
• Felhcc 2-Piece Donut Vase Set, From $20 (was $30) at Walmart

Related: Martha Stewart’s 12-Piece Porcelain Dinnerware Set Looks Like Heirloom China and Is Perfect for Fall Hosting

If you want to bring warm and natural energy into your home, refresh your space with the Sanmadrola 3-Piece Ceramic Vase Set. Head to Walmart and snag it while it’s still on sale for just $22! 

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.

Fifty-six years ago, soft-rock icon Gordon Lightfoot released “If You Could Read My Mind,” a song that would define his career and launch him into international stardom.

Released in December 1970 as the lead single from his fifth studio album, Sit Down Young Stranger, “If You Could Read My Mind” became a major hit. Upon its release, the track climbed up multiple Billboard charts, peaking at No. 1 on the U.S. Adult Contemporary chart and No. 5 on the Hot 100, becoming his first big mainstream breakthrough.

Beyond its chart performance, Lightfoot’s single achieved substantial commercial success. Following its runaway popularity, the song was certified Gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) for selling over 1 million copies in the U.S. alone.

Canadian folk-rock singer and songwriter Gordon Lightfoot sings and plays acoustic guitar for the television concert series, ‘Midnight Special,’ 1970s.

Getty Images

Creating “If You Could Read My Mind”

“If You Could Read My Mind” was penned by Lightfoot in 1969 inside an empty home in Toronto, Ontario. At the time, the songwriter was undergoing a painful divorce from his first wife, Brita Ingegerd Olaisson. After searching for places to live, he settled on a vacant house in the Forest Hill neighborhood. The empty space provided a secluded sanctuary, allowing him to channel his heartbreak and isolation into one of the most memorable works of his career.

In a 2010 interview with the Toronto Star, Lightfoot reflected on the writing process, noting how the emotional turmoil he was experiencing fueled the song’s creation.

“I was of course going through some emotional trauma leading up to a separation, so that of course manifested itself in that particular song on that particular afternoon,” Lightfoot recalled. “I would go in there with a chair and a table. I have a Quebec table here that fits in the trunk of my car that I take with me – just the chair and the table and the pad and the manuscript.”

“If You Could Read My Mind” connected deeply with listeners as a poignant breakup staple. Its vivid lyrical imagery painted a portrait of a heartbroken man navigating his failed romance. Paired with a melancholic acoustic folk arrangement, the song became a classic that has endured for over five decades.

In the digital era, Lightfoot’s signature masterpiece continues to resonate with modern audiences through streaming platforms. On Spotify alone, “If You Could Read My Mind” has garnered over 200 million streams—attesting to its lasting place in folk and soft-rock history.

Related: 1974 Country Song, With Singer Nicknamed ‘The Possum,’ Became a No. 1 Hit 52 Years Ago Today

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

When it comes to fall shoes, the best styles to invest in are the ones that don’t go out of fashion after a single season. Trend-heavy footwear can certainly be fun, but classic silhouettes tend to get much more wear over time. A clean suede boot with a sleek pointed toe is one of those reliable styles you’ll reach for year after year.

One option that fits the bill is the Cole Haan Go-To-Janece Pointed-Toe Dress Boots. Right now, they’re on sale for an impressive 75% off at Macy’s, bringing the price from $310 down to just $77. That’s a remarkable deal for a pair from a reputable footwear brand, especially if you’re looking for a sleek fall staple without the usual designer-level price tag.

Cole Haan Go-To-Janece Pointed-Toe Dress Boots, $77 (was $310) at Macy’s 

Courtesy of Macy's

Shop at Macy's

The boots are available in sizes 5 through 9.5, with half sizes available to make finding the right fit easier. They have a 1.3-inch heel, an 8.5-inch shaft height, and an 11.4-inch shaft circumference, with a regular calf width. The pointed toe gives them a refined shape, while the half-zip closure keeps everything secure.

Made with real suede, these tall boots add rich texture to fall and winter outfits. The upper is leather, the lining is polyester, and the outsole is rubber. A low kitten heel gives them a sophisticated lift without any discomfort or instability, making them a nice middle ground between flat boots and more dramatic heeled styles.

Related: Amazon Is Selling ‘Very Comfortable’ Toms Ankle Booties for Over 50% Off and They’re ‘Perfect’ for Any Occasion

Comfort is another standout feature, with a cushioned insole and flexible rubber outsole designed to make walking easier throughout the day. That makes them practical for everything from commuting and shopping to heading out for dinner. Instead of sacrificing comfort for a dressed-up look, you get a stylish silhouette that’s still easy to wear for hours.

Their versatility also makes them a particularly useful addition to your fall wardrobe. During the day, style the boots with straight-leg denim for an effortlessly chic outfit, then swap in a midi dress or trousers for dinner. The classic shape also works across seasons, taking you from early fall through late spring when temperatures allow.

Shop More Deals

• Cole Haan Gwendolyn Penny Loafers, From $96 (was $160) at Macy’s
• Cole Haan Go-To Janey Slip-On Pumps, $100 (was $180) at Macy’s
• Aerosoles Micah Tall Boots, $52 (was $129) at Macy’s

With fall right around the corner, there’s no better time to upgrade your shoe collection — especially when a timeless pair like the Cole Haan Go-To-Janece Pointed-Toe Dress Boots are marked down by more than $200. 

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.

Sometimes you wanna know … which television theme song reigns supreme. Consequence recently settled the debate, ranking the best small-screen opening tunes of all time. Its winner? Cheers’ “Where Everybody Knows Your Name.”

The friendly bar ballad topped 65 modern and nostalgic favorites, including Friends’ “I’ll Be There for You,” Three’s Company’s “Come and Knock on Our Door,” The Golden Girls’ “Thank You for Being a Friend,” and The Jeffersons’ “Movin’ On Up.”  

View this post on Instagram

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

“‘Where Everybody Knows Your Name’ derives so much of its power from directly engaging with the viewer on a relatable level,” Consequence wrote. “Its lyrics are all written in the second person, as Gary Portnoy sings about finding a place where loneliness is an impossible thing.”

Also written by Portnoy, with Judy Hart-Angelo, the song has become the gold standard for sitcom intro music and a cultural touchstone that instantly defines an entire era of pop culture. Case in point: TV Guide editors named it the greatest TV theme song of all time in 2013, a Rolling Stone readers poll put the song at the top, and Consequence’s previous roundup also has the ultimate bar anthem at No. 1.  

“This is a song about an everyday neighborhood bar, yet Portnoy and Judy Hart-Angelo’s nostalgia-tinged melody makes it feel timeless and universal,” Consequence added. “By the end, that humble Boston bar doesn’t just feel like a real place, but one you desperately wish you could be.”

More than a theme song, “Where Everybody Knows Your Name” reflects the sitcom it introduces. It’s deep and layered and comforting, just like Cheers’ cast of characters and its tavern setting tucked away and protected from the bustling, exhausting, and lonely realities of the outside world.

“Cheers was the first TV theme I ever co-wrote,” Portnoy shared, per Songfacts. “Coming from a background as a pop songwriter–as opposed to, say, a jingle writer–I approached the Cheers theme–and all that followed–as ‘songs’ rather than ‘themes.'”

According to Portnoy’s website, the road to “Where Everybody Knows Your Name” actually began with a different song. Portnoy and Hart-Angelo were working on the musical Preppies when a tape of their song “People Like Us” found its way to Cheers creators Glen and Les Charles. They liked what they heard, but because the song was tied to the stage production, they asked the pair to create something specifically for the sitcom.

Working together, Portnoy and Hart-Angelo put forth several attempts, including songs called “My Kind of People” and “Another Day,” but they were ultimately rejected. Channeling sad barflies one night, Portnoy came up with the keyboard melody that would then lead to their breakthrough lyric, “Sometimes you wanna go.” The song pretty much flowed after that.

When Cheers premiered in September 1982, the show was met with mixed reactions. A massive hit with television critics, the series was a ratings disaster, ending the year ranked 74th out of 77 shows, per Ultimate Classic Rock. The sitcom’s theme song, however, was a hit.

According to Songfacts, NBC received numerous requests for the sheet music and recording. So, Portnoy recorded a full version of the tune, which was then issued as a single. The song even made a mark on the Billboard Hot 100.

In May 1983, “Where Everybody Knows Your Name” peaked at No. 83, nestled between Michael Bolton’s “Fools Game” at No. 82 and Kenny Rogers and Sheena Easton’s “We’ve Got Tonight” at No. 84. Not bad for a ballad about a bar for a show about a bar.

Cheers eventually found an audience. Winner of 28 Primetime Emmys, including one nomination for its theme song, the sitcom ran for 11 seasons well into 1993. One of the series’ most famous fans came in the form of a former Growing Pains star, Leonardo DiCaprio.

NBC / Getty Images

“What is the Ninth Symphony of ’80s sitcom theme songs? There’s ‘Movin’ On Up,’ and there’s ‘Welcome Back.’ But they don’t have the weight that Cheers does, the emotional depth, the undercurrent of sadness, life, happiness, all rolled into one area where a man can have a beer,” DiCaprio told Rolling Stone.

In 2010, Portnoy released his original demo of the theme song on his album, Songs Along the Way. And now, ore than four decades after its original release, the song is still bringing people together and proving that a thoughtful theme song can become something much bigger than an opening sequence viewers would rather skip.

Related: 1973 Jukebox Hit, Produced by Todd Rundgren, Launched a Hard Rock Trio to Its First No. 1

Cozy fall weather is right around the corner, and Costco is pulling out all the stops to get you prepared. As luck would have it, you don’t have to search far to replace an old pair of matching sweats. A popular fan-favorite combo is back in stores with an updated look. 

Ready to elevate everything from the way you lounge at home to the clothes you wear while doing some shopping, Kirkland Signature Unisex Logo Sweats are finally here, with Crewneck Sweater and Pant options to choose from for just $19.99. Blink, and they’re gone. If you’ve ever wanted to know what it feels like to dress head to toe in Costco, now is your chance to find out.

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

Kirkland Signature Unisex Logo Crewneck, $19.99 at Costco View this post on Instagram

Spotted by @costcofam4u, who promptly shared the news online, Costco’s ever-evolving lineup of Kirkland Signature sweatpants and sweatshirts has quite the reputation with fans thanks to their cozy fit and stylish design. Now featuring a $20 price tag in-store while supplies last, you can snag both tops and bottoms in unisex sizing for just $40 and secure yourself your very own Costco uniform. 

Available in Gray, Navy and Black colorways, the Kirkland Signature Unisex Logo Crewneck features a small embroidered Costco Wholesale logo on the left chest and a matching wrist patch for added flair. Made of a 66 percent cotton and 34 percent recycled polyester blend, each color has a 320 GSM heavyweight construction, making it perfect for breezy fall weather and cozy days lounging at home.

Related: Uniqlo’s Essential Fall Layer Pairs Perfectly With Anything

Kirkland Signature Unisex Logo Pant, $19.99 at Costco

Costco

As for the Kirkland Signature Logo Pant, this style comes in black and gray, with the same $20 price tag in-store and $22 online. Made of a brushed fleece fabric with a relaxed fit, each pair features Costco Wholesale logo embroidery on the left thigh, along with two side pockets and plenty of room through the leg. The Logo Pant also features the same cotton blend as the crewneck, giving you a consistent look and feel through both pieces.

“This might be the ultimate Costco uniform,” @costcofam4u captioned their post, which was met with dozens of fans chiming in with excitement.

“These are legit,” one viewer said. “Insta cop,” another added, while others echoed the sentiment.

“So cute! Definitely need,” a third fan wrote, while a fourth urged everyone to “run, don’t walk” in order to snag theirs while supplies are still available.

Be on the lookout the next time you visit the store, and if you can’t make it, check online before everyone else gets the same idea. And for more wardrobe updates, check out Old Navy’s Relaxed Long-Sleeve Plaid Flannel Pocket Shirt and Uniqlo’s roomy Barrel Pants.

Related: Old Navy’s Timeless Men’s Staple Adds a Casual Touch to Fall Fits

Carla Jeffery, the actress who brought cheerleader Bree to life in Disney Channel’s Zombies franchise, has died, leaving her family, friends and former co-stars mourning a performer they remembered for her warmth and joy.

Jeffery, 33, died Tuesday, September 1, according to a statement shared by her longtime management company, Alexanders Talent Management.

A cause of death has not been disclosed.

View this post on Instagram

“It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of our beloved Carla Jeffery, who passed away on September 1, 2026, at just 33 years old,” her loved ones said.

Her representatives remembered her as a “beautiful, vibrant, and incredibly talented woman” whose “radiant smile could light up any room.”

Jeffery had been represented by Alexanders Talent Management since she was 12. “For more than 20 years, we had the privilege of watching her grow,” the agency said. “As Bree in Disney’s hit ZOMBIES franchise, Carla shared her joy, humor, and bright spirit with audiences around the world.”

The statement continued, “Carla was more than a client; she was family.”

Her representatives asked for privacy for her loved ones, concluding, “Rest beautifully, Carla. Your light will never be forgotten.”

What Did Carla Jeffery’s ‘Zombies’ Co-Stars Say? Carla Jeffery attends Disney+ “High School Musical: The Musical: The Series” Season 3 premiere

(Photo by David Livingston/FilmMagic)

News of Jeffery’s death brought an outpouring of grief from members of her Disney family.

Milo Manheim, who starred alongside Jeffery in the Zombies franchise, wrote, “Carla. The sweetest person I have ever met. I love you.”

Chandler Kinney, who appeared with Jeffery in Zombies 2 and Zombies 3, shared her own emotional tribute. “the brightest shining light in any room she walked into. the kindest person you’d ever meet. the most beautiful soul. this doesn’t feel real….. 💔” Kinney wrote, as reported by ABC7.

What Was Carla Jeffery Known For?

Born July 10, 1993, in Houston, Jeffery began acting as a child. Her first film role came in the 2006 comedy Phat Girlz, where she played a younger version of Mo’Nique’s character. She later appeared in iCarly, Curb Your Enthusiasm, Good Luck Charlie, Shake It Up, Southland, Scream Queens, Crazy Ex-Girlfriend and American Vandal. Her best-known role arrived in 2018 when she played Bree in Zombies. She returned for Zombies 2 and Zombies 3 and later voiced Bree in Zombies: The Re-Animated Series.

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

As its name suggests, baker’s racks were originally used for baking, offering a place for pastries to cool down and providing storage for baking ingredients. However, they’re now used for a wide variety of purposes, transforming into beverage bars, display shelves, and appliance stands. They can bring an extra sense of order to your living space, and many modern versions double as a stylish accent piece. 

If you’ve been dreaming of creating a coffee station, or simply want to relieve your cluttered drawers, cabinets, and countertops, Walmart’s bestselling Edx Baker’s Rack is definitely worth checking out. There’s no better time than right now to grab one because it’s currently on sale for nearly 50% off. Normally retailing for $85, it’s now marked down to just $45 in a rustic brown version and $53 in a gray style. This baker’s rack is also available in both colors in a larger size, which you can snag on sale for either $57 or $59. 

Edx Baker’s Rack, From $45 (was $85) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Featuring three spacious shelves, this baker’s rack offers plenty of space for your storage needs. The top shelf serves as a countertop, where you can keep your espresso machine or coffee maker if you want to turn it into a coffee bar. Alternatively, you could use it to store bulky appliances like microwaves and air fryers if your kitchen counters are running low on space. 

The bottom two shelves offer even more space for appliances, as well as cookware, dinnerware, drinkware, and anything else you see fit. Designed to maximize storage, the middle shelf is adjustable between two heights so you can fit items of various sizes, reducing the amount of unused space. The sides of the middle tier feature a wire grid where you can hang items from the included S-shaped hooks. 

The top section of this baker’s rack has a narrow shelf where you can display decor pieces or store smaller items like spices and mugs. Underneath the shelf, this piece boasts a charging station with three standard AC outlets and a safety switch, offering a convenient place to power up your appliances. 

Edx Baker’s Rack, From $45 (was $85) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Just as chic as it is practical, this baker’s rack nails the farmhouse aesthetic. The shelves are made of wood and have an exposed woodgrain finish, giving this piece major rustic charm. Its raw and natural appearance will instantly elevate your living space, making it feel cozy and inviting. Ideal for small and large spaces alike, this baker’s rack measures 23.6 inches wide, 15.7 inches deep, and 51.8 inches tall. It builds up, taking advantage of vertical space. 

The frame is made of steel, and shoppers noted that it felt sturdy and durable. Attesting to its sturdiness, a customer commented that their rack was able to hold an air fryer, coffee pot, blender, small microwave, and more, without any issues. Reviewers also mentioned that it was quick and easy to put together. Ensuring stability, even on uneven surfaces, the legs are equipped with adjustable feet to prevent it from wobbling. For additional stability, it comes with an anti-tip kit to secure the rack to the wall. 

It’s really no surprise that this baker’s rack has earned over 500 five-star ratings at Walmart. Several reviewers raved about how it’s great for small spaces, calling it a “wonderful space saver.” One shopper said that they love how it “gives you your counter space back.” A second customer described this baker’s rack as “beautiful and spacious,” and a third person commented that it makes for a “really cute coffee station.” 

Shop More Deals 

• Homfa Tall Freestanding Kitchen Pantry, From $130 (was $180) at Walmart
• Stusgo 4-Tier Stackable Can Organizer, From $18 (was $34) at Walmart
• Stusgo 18-Piece Food Storage Containers Set, $24 (was $46) at Walmart

Related: Walmart Has a Fluted Nesting Coffee Table Set With ‘Artisanal’ Style and Hidden Storage for Just $96

If your kitchen could use a stylish storage solution, head to Walmart and snag the Edx Baker’s Rack while it’s still on sale for as low as $45! 

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.

Keeping your floors clean can definitely be a struggle, especially if you live with pets or kids (or both). That’s why this spray mop, available right now at Aldi, is so on point. It is super easy, quick and convenient to use, and there’s no bucket or wringing required.

Aldi’s in-house Easy Home brand just brought back its fan-favorite spray mop sets. Available in either black (pictured below) or blue, these mops are a game changer for keeping your floors nice and clean on a budget; each one costs just $14.99. Each set includes one spray mop and two microfiber cleaning pads.

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

Easy Home Black Spray Mop, $14.99 at Aldi

Aldi

The spray mop has a refillable bottle that attaches directly to the mop. You can add custom cleaning solutions to this reservoir and then spray them directly onto your floor using the manual hand trigger on the handle. From there, wipe up any messes, smudges and dirt from your floor. Simple.

Related: Aldi’s Moody New Area Rug Brings Dark Academia Vibes to Any Room

Past versions of the mop had rave reviews. On a Facebook group dedicated to Aldi Finds, one fan encouraged group members to snag one of these mops. “Don’t walk, RUN!!” they wrote in a post in the Facebook group. “I absolutely love this spray mop, so easy to use and it works great!!”

“Just used mine today. My old mop pads fit on it as well as the Bona one,” said one commenter on the Facebook group post.

This sleek cleaning tool is available at select Aldi stores now as part of the German grocer’s current rotation of Aldi Finds, product specials that come and go every single week on Wednesdays. These items are limited in stock and only stick around while supplies last, so if you see something you are interested in snagging, make sure to do it quickly. You can shop for these products in Aldi’s center aisle.

If you are interested in shopping other Aldi Finds, check out this spot-on Le Creuset Dutch oven dupe, this enchanting front door wreath that’s beautifully bold for fall or this cute portable charcuterie board that is a game changer for football tailgating this autumn.

Related: Aldi Is Selling a Rustic $12 Essential Designed for Morning Luxury

Five years ago, Walker Hayes burst into stardom when his song “Fancy Like” suddenly went viral on TikTok. Although he had previously found some commercial success, this viral song launched him into new heights. “Fancy Like” quickly put Hayes in the spotlight, landing him on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and even a remix with Kesha.

Since then, Hayes has played sold-out shows, collaborated with artists like Carly Pearce and continues to expand his fanbase with his current fall tour. But through all the success, one thing has remained the same in Hayes’ life: he adores his dogs.

In collaboration with Canidae, Hayes’ new song “Love is a Four-Legged Word” is an anthem inspired by his favorite four-legged companions. To celebrate the song’s release, Hayes spoke exclusively with Parade about the role his furry friends play in his life.

“I think God gave us the coolest little friends,” Hayes said. “They’re very important to me and my family. I’m almost 47 and I don’t remember a time where I either [didn’t] have a dog or I wasn’t trying to get one.”

“Love is a Four-Legged Word” became Hayes’ attempt to describe just how much his dogs mean to him — specifically his favorite dog, Skeeter.

“The sub-hook of the song says, ‘Skeeter’s my dog and I’m his human,’” Hayes said. “I think any dog owner will understand … there’s just a special bond that you have with your pets.”

Hayes’ bond with his dogs goes beyond just playing with them at home. He often brought them on the road with him.

“For the last four years of our lives, my family and all four dogs went out with us,” Hayes said. “We were all in a bus together, just four dogs, six kids and my wife. It was absolute blissful chaos.”

However, since Hayes has been traveling alone lately, he and his family are in a “tug-of-war” over who gets to spend more time with the dogs.

“My kids say I should get [a puppy] that I take out [on the road],” he said with a laugh. “But I know that if I get one, the other puppies are gonna be jealous.”

While he might not always be able to be with his dogs, “Love is a Four-Legged Word” monumentalizes his love for them. The song is part of an ongoing “outside-the-box” animation project Hayes is working on, called Walker’s Woods, detailing the story of Hayes’ friendship with Skeeter.

Since Hayes’ success began when he and one of his children recorded a TikTok dance to “Fancy Like,” it only makes sense that this familial collaboration is continuing with this upcoming series.

“My daughter sings the voice of Skeeter, and she is his voice in all the animated episodes,” Hayes explained.

Several of Hayes’ children graduated from Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) with degrees in animation. He said it was important for him to work with them because they’re “inventive and fearless.”

“The first episode has been scripted and the entire song is there,” Hayes said. “The animation world is a great universe for me creatively.”

As fans wait for Hayes’ and Skeeter’s story to come to life through animation, “Love is a Four-Legged Word” can be listened to here:

How much screen time young children should have is a hotly debated topic amongst parents and childhood experts alike. But it’s worth remembering that not all screen time is created equal. In fact, there’s one ’90s kids show that can actually help educate your little ones about emotional intelligence: Bear in the Big Blue House.

It was a staple for children in the late ’90s and early 2000s, but nearly three decades after it originally premiered, it remains one of the most helpful shows for teaching kids about feelings, says child psychologist Dr. Tori Broems, PhD. She works as a school psychologist in New York’s Harborfields School District and also has a private practice, and she thinks this low-stimulation show for toddlers is a great way to encourage emotional development.

“If you’ve ever seen social media posts showing parents armed with stickers, coloring books, Magna-Tiles and endless restaurant activities while joking that they’re ‘fighting for their lives not to raise an iPad kid,’ then you know how challenging it can be to navigate parenting in the age of information,” she tells Parade.

But parents don’t have to be so black-and-white about screen time. Dr. Broems says that when you watch Bear in the Big Blue House with your child (aka co-viewing), it can encourage your kiddos in helpful ways.

“It creates meaningful opportunities for conversations about emotions,” she adds. “One of the show’s greatest strengths is that it treats emotions as a normal part of everyday life rather than problems that need to be eliminated.”

Here’s everything you need to know about why this show that ended 24 years ago can be so beneficial for kids.

Related: Child Psychologist Reveals: ‘This Is the Best Children’s Show To Work on Empathy in Kids and Grandkids’

The Beloved ’90s Classic: What Was ‘Bear in the Big Blue House’?

Originally created by the Jim Henson Company using Henson’s signature puppetry style, Bear in the Big Blue House premiered in 1997. It follows Bear and his cast of animal friends who share a big blue house together while going on adventures, learning to solve problems and more.

The series was produced until 2002, and the property was then sold to Disney by Henson’s company in 2004. The final seasons premiered on Playhouse Disney from 2002 until 2006, per IMDb. Now all four seasons can be streamed on Disney+.

Related: The One Emotional Skill Psychologists Say Parents and Grandparents Should Teach Before Age 7

Why a Child Psychologist Calls ‘Bear in the Big Blue House’ the Ultimate Tool for Emotional Intelligence

Dr. Broems appreciates that when the show features emotions like fear, sadness, anger and more, the characters don’t just rush past the experience.

“The show allows characters time to feel their emotions, name them, talk about them and move through them,” she says, adding, “[That] encourages a deeper understanding. Emotions are understandable, temporary and something we can talk about. This foundation is a key component of emotional intelligence.”

She applauds the show’s pacing regarding how much time the characters are given to solve their own problems.

“[They are] often given opportunities to work through challenges independently, allowing viewers to observe social interactions and conflict resolution in a realistic context,” she points out.

The psychologist also adds that watching the characters’ coping strategies and seeing things be resolved helps children to understand not just “what emotions are, but they learn how to respond to them.”

While some children’s shows focus on teaching kids tangible concepts like the letters of the alphabet, Bear in the Big Blue House spends more time on concepts like exploring big feelings, which can be somewhat nebulous to children.

“As both a school psychologist and a licensed psychologist who works with children, women and mothers, I frequently hear concerns about academic readiness,” Dr. Broems notes. “While early academic skills are important, young children [can be] simultaneously developing the emotional and social foundations that allow them to access those academic skills successfully.”

She adds that emotional regulation is hugely important for kids, and it’s one of the things the show does such a good job modeling. “Emotional competence involves recognizing internal states, understanding the emotions of others [and] communicating needs,” she explains.

“[Bear in the Big Blue House] models important social skills such as sharing, turn-taking, friendship, perspective-taking, communication and asking for help,” Dr. Broems says. “It also introduces concepts like patience, waiting, coping with disappointment and problem-solving.”

Though a show alone can’t give a child everything they need to succeed, she says parents shouldn’t dismiss screen time entirely.

“Shows like Bear in the Big Blue House can become powerful teaching tools when paired with conversations, emotional coaching and modeling from caregivers,” she states. “Integrate that within daily life as well and your child may pick up more than you think with regard to social-emotional learning.”

Related: 6 Ways To Raise Emotionally Intelligent Children or Grandchildren

The Science of ‘Low-Stimulation’ TV: Why Modern Cartoons Fail Where ‘Bear in the Big Blue House’ Succeeded

Many modern children’s shows are highly stimulating with bright colors, fast-paced action and loud sounds. Bear in the Big Blue House, by contrast, takes a low-stimulation approach with gentle songs, slow story pacing and more.

“Part of the show’s calming nature comes from its simplicity, routine and predictability,” says Dr. Broems. “Bear in the Big Blue House creates space for reflection… the characters move slowly, and emotions are communicated through dialogue, tone of voice, body language and relationships rather than through constant visual effects or rapid scene changes, which are frequently part of modern-day children’s television.”

She adds that the house itself serves as a consistent setting that children can come to expect. “Rather than transporting children through a series of visually overwhelming worlds, the show creates a sense of comfort, stability and home.”

Dr. Broems cites research published in Infant Behavior & Development, noting that “what children watch, not just how much they watch, matters.”

“In a longitudinal study of 195 families, children whose favorite programs were both slow-paced and rich in prosocial content demonstrated stronger gains in sharing behavior over time,” she explains.

In another study published in Pediatrics, Dr. Broems states, “Four-year-olds who watched a fast-paced cartoon performed significantly worse immediately afterward on measures of executive functioning, including working memory and self-regulation, compared to children who watched educational programming or participated in drawing activities.”

Overall, she thinks the research shows that “pacing and content can influence children’s attention, executive functioning and social behavior, all of which are critical aspects of brain development.”

In alignment with The American Academy of Pediatrics’ 5 Cs of Media Use, the psychologist encourages parents to prioritize high-quality content that’s interactive versus passive scrolling—as well as watching with their child and encouraging discussion afterwards.

Related: Psychologists Say Parents Who Raise Kind Kids Share These 9 Unexpected Habits

How the ‘Welcome’ and ‘Goodbye’ Songs Create a Secure Psychological Routine

“One of the most distinctive features of Bear in the Big Blue House is its predictable beginning and ending,” says Dr. Broems, when speaking about the consistent use of the same Welcome and Goodbye songs that bring the viewer in and then recap the day with them at the end.

“The opening communicates, ‘We’re here. We’re together. Let’s check in,'” she points out. In every episode, Bear greets viewers by “smelling” them in a playful ritual that encourages connection.

“Although children are not literally interacting with Bear, the repeated fourth-wall engagement helps create a sense of participation and relationship,” she says.

At the end of the episodes, Dr. Broems says, “The Goodbye song provides a predictable endpoint, which is especially important for young children.”

“Predictability supports emotional security, and research has linked consistent routines with stronger emotion regulation while household chaos is associated with greater emotional difficulties,” she adds.

Related: Child Psychologist Is Begging Parents To Teach Kids These 7 Daily Habits

Where To Watch ‘Bear in the Big Blue House’ Today

You can find Bear in the Big Blue House streaming on Disney+. There are over 100 episodes to choose from, but a good starting point for parents is this list of episodes that deal with big feelings about fear, sharing, being left out, changing routines and more.

• Season 1, Episode 8: “Share Bear”
• Season 1, Episode 25: “Lost Thing”
• Season 2, Episode 8: “Back to Nature”
• Season 2, Episode 16: “Change is in the Air”
• Season 2, Episode 22: “Afraid Not”
• Season 2, Episode 29: “The Way I Feel Today”
• Season 3, Episode 3: “Nothing to Fear”
• Season 3, Episode 5: “You Never Know”
• Season 3, Episode 9: “What’s Mine is Yours”
• Season 3, Episode 14: “Wait for Me”
• Season 4, Episode 3: “Show and Tell”
• Season 4, Episode 12: “Big Blue Home of the Brave”
• Season 4, Episode 25: “Let it Go”

Up Next:

Related: This 28-Year-Old Children’s Show Is Still One of the Best Ways To Teach Your Kids Life Skills, Psychologists Say

Source:

• Dr. Tori Broems, PhD, works as a school psychologist in New York’s Harborfields School District and also has a private practice.
• Prosocial television and prosocial toddlers: A multi-method, longitudinal investigation (2021). Infant behavior & development.
• The immediate impact of different types of television on young children’s executive function (2011). Pediatrics.

Around this time in 1979, Electric Light Orchestra was on the verge of something big. The English rock band had just released its first song recorded without a string section, and they were watching their gamble pay off.

On Sept. 8, 1979, “Don’t Bring Me Down” cracked the Top 5 on the Billboard Hot 100, reaching No. 4, and ultimately becoming ELO’s biggest U.S. hit.

View this post on Instagram

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

Released from their eighth album, Discovery, in July 1979, the song was also a massive international hit, peaking at No. 3 in the U.K., reaching No. 1 in Canada, and infiltrating jukeboxes in bars and beyond. But the most surprising part of the song’s story might be the piece that was missing from it.

Up to this point, ELO’s signature sound was defined by rock and roll elevated by prominent orchestral and string arrangements. Mid- to late-’70s hits like “Strange Magic” and “Mr. Blue Sky” are perfect examples of this sound. Going forward, however, frontman Jeff Lynne wanted something different.

Pursuing a more muscular and rock-oriented vibe, Lynne and engineer Reinhold Mack began stripping away some of ELO’s familiar orchestral trappings. Discovery was the first ELO album on which the band’s resident string players were not used in the studio, and “Don’t Bring Me Down” was the first ELO song recorded without strings.

Lynne later said he was “fed up” with the strings after several albums, citing both creative fatigue and union issues. The resident string players—cellists Hugh McDowell and Melvyn Gale and violinist Mik Kaminski—were dismissed shortly after Discovery was released, leaving Lynne, Bev Bevan, Richard Tandy, and Kelly Groucutt as the band’s core four members.

According to Mack, “Don’t Bring Me Down” came together late in the Discovery sessions, when he created a drum loop from another track, and Lynne began building around it. Mack suggested adding layers of piano, bass, and guitar, while Lynne ultimately played all the instruments on the finished track himself.

“My biggest claim to fame with ELO, probably, is that I instigated ‘Don’t Bring Me Down,’” Mack told Tape Op. “It was like, ‘What do we do next?’ Probably the best thing, for once, was doing away with all the violins and the choirs and do straightforward, boogie, rock and roll.”

The string-cutting move was a monumental sonic shift for a band whose very identity was built around an orchestral string unit. Lynne wanted a “great big galloping ball of distortion,” and that’s what he got. But there’s even more enduring trivia here, which comes from a mysterious lyric that sounds suspiciously like the name “Bruce.”

Lynne has explained that he originally made up the word “groos” as a throwaway vocal, only to learn from Mack that it sounded like the German word “greeting.” He liked the coincidence enough to keep it. That said, when fans began singing “Bruce” on tour, he said the heck with it and just joined them.

Mack, of course, has offered a slightly different account of how the word came about, making the mystery surrounding the lyrics all the more fun.

No matter the mystery lyric or its missing strings, “Don’t Bring Me Down” has only gone up. The song became ELO’s biggest U.S. hit and an international success back in 1979, but its life has extended far beyond that era, thanks to its catchy, stomping beat and instantly recognizable vocal hook.

Nearly five decades later, the song that earned a reputation as a premier jukebox staple remains a classic rock radio hit alongside ELO favorites like “Mr. Blue Sky” and “Evil Woman.” And whether you hear “Bruce” or “groos,” that unmistakable vocal is still impossible not to sing along with. “Ooh-oh-oh.”

Related: 1984 Rock Ballad, Saved by Ron Nevison, Launched a Legendary Five-Piece Back to No. 1

​

With fall on the horizon, Halloween coming up and football season getting underway, the vibes are high as we approach some of the best months of the year. And if you’re looking for ways to lock in for the game, don’t overlook your local Dollar General or risk missing out on the perfect football season upgrade.

Perfect for dad or anyone you can’t peel away from the game if your life depended on it, Dollar General’s ‘Don’t Bother Me It’s Football Season’ Print Coffee Mug brings just the right level of charm to your drinkware collection. At $3 a pop, it’s just as much an easy gift for a football fan as it is a reliable source of a good laugh while entertaining friends.

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

“Don’t Bother Me It’s Football Season” Print Coffee Mug, $3 at Dollar General

Dollar General

Sporting a generous 20-ounce capacity and a color combination that could be perfect for an Eagles fan, the “Don’t Bother Me It’s Football Season” Print Coffee Mug is an easy $3 spent to kick off the season in style. Crafted from durable ceramic that promises long-lasting use, it features an all-white design with a green rim and handle for extra flair. 

Where this mug really gets its personality, however, is in the “Don’t Bother Me It’s Football Season” message surrounding a football graphic on its face. Tapping into the classic trope of the sports fan who simply can’t be bothered while the game is on, there couldn’t be a better way to showcase your love for the sport.

Related: Dollar General’s $1 Harvest-Inspired Kitchen Set Is an Easy Start to a Fall Refresh

Whether you’re snagging one for yourself, a friend or family member, this charming seasonal mug is made for keeping you refreshed for every touchdown, interception and nail-biting moment alike. Designed for both hot and cold beverages and featuring a comfortable hand-feel, it can be used at home or outdoors while tailgating with friends. 

That said, Dollar General does not provide specifics on whether it’s dishwasher- or microwave-safe, so proceed with caution and avoid both to prevent accidents. Otherwise, don’t miss out on this hilarious sports mug. With football season ramping up, it’s only a matter of time before other fans catch on and snatch one up for themselves. 

Looking for more tailgate essentials? Grab the Member’s Mark 20-Count Fall Assorted Donut Tray at Sam’s Club for a good snack and then head over to Costco for the Canon Ivy 2 Mini Photo Printer to physically preserve all the magical sports moments you capture on your phone.

Related: Hobby Lobby Is Selling the Cutest $4 Scalloped Baker for Cozy Fall Recipes

You don’t have to be a sports fan to know who Steve Ballmer is. In fact, you’ve either seen his cringey dance-a-long with Bill Gates from a 1995 conference that went viral or you’ve seen his passionately fiery interviews related to either his successful tech career with Microsoft or his current passion-project, owning the Los Angeles Clippers.

Those very Clippers have been the laughingstock of the league for decades, never winning a championship despite numerous all-star rosters, dating back to their time as the San Diego Clippers with Bill Walton to now their new-arena era in Inglewood, where they recently traded their top player Kawhi Leonard back to Toronto to much controversy.

Leonard has repped the Clips’ colors for seven seasons after winning the championship with the Raptors in 2019, but will now return in what’s become the never-ending soap opera of the NBA offseason.

Related: Tech Mogul Aiming to Live Forever Reveals Concerning Health Update

To add to the drama, this wasn’t any ordinary trade. The deal was contingent upon on a league investigation which today was revealed to find many wrongdoings from multiple parties, including Leonard’s inner circle, whereas his uncle, Dennis Robertson, is banned from the NBA for five years.

Owner Steve Ballmer will be suspended for the entire 2026-27 NBA season for knowingly helping All-Star Kawhi Leonard obtain outside income, including approving a business deal that he knew was a precondition for financial-services company Aspiration to enter into a lucrative endorsement agreement behind closed doors.

Now, Leonard will reportedly have to pay back $700,000 in restitution himself, and the team’s future looks even dimmer now that the league has forced the Clippers to forfeit, not one, not two, or even three first-round draft picks, but five in total through 2033 — plus, a hefty $30 million fine.

Ouch.

“The NBA announced today that the LA Clippers and Kawhi Leonard have been penalized for violating the salary cap circumvention rules contained in the league’s Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) with the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA),” the league announced in a statement.

It’s safe to say the Lakers are the team to watch in LA this year as even the billionaire owner won’t be able to take his luxe seats he’s been known to occupy and fire up the crowd as the team’s unofficial cheerleader.

The NBA imposed a historic punishment against the Los Angeles Clippers on Wednesday, September 2, for violating the salary cap circumvention rules.

Here are the penalties:

• Clippers must forfeit five first-round draft picks (2029, 2030, 2031, 2032 and 2033 drafts)
• $30 million fine for the Clippers
• Leonard must pay the NBA $700,000
• One-year suspension from all league and team activities for Clippers governor Steve Ballmer
• One-year suspension without pay for Clippers president of business operations Gillian Zucker
• Six-month suspension without pay for Clippers president of basketball operations Lawrence Frank
• Five-year ban from engaging with NBA teams and conducting business with them on behalf of a player, employee, or personnel for Leonard’s former business manager, Dennis Robertson
• Clippers personnel are subject to additional compliance and monitoring overseen by the NBA for five years

This comes after nearly a yearlong investigation regarding whether a $28 million endorsement contract between Leonard and Aspiration Fund Adviser LLC broke league rules. The issue was brought to the public in a report by journalist Pablo Torre.

CBA rules broken by the Clippers (per NBA):

Affirmatively initiating off-court income opportunities between Mr. Leonard and four companies doing business with the team: Aspiration Partners, Boingo Wireless, Daktronics, and Lockton Insurance;

Facilitating endorsement agreements…

— Bobby Marks (@BobbyMarks42) September 2, 2026

The team released a statement, denying the findings and making it clear they intend to fight this punishment.

“We vehemently reject the NBA’s findings, which are the result of a heavily biased investigation seeking to justify a predetermined narrative rather than facts and evidence. What the league told us privately differs from what it announced today publicly, and they have not held themselves close to the standard Commissioner Silver set at the start of this investigation to ensure it’s fairness and accuracy,” the statement said. “For the past year, we cooperated fully and in good faith and we will now fight just as hard to demonstrate our innocence.

“We intend to vigorously challenge these findings and penalties through every avenue available to us and look forward to an ethical and impartial arbitration process.”

Leonard also released a statement of his own.

“Integrity and respect for this game are fundamental to who I am. I accept full responsibility for lapses in judgment by people within my inner circle and regret the distraction this situation has caused the fans and my family,” the statement read via ESPN’s Shams Charania.

“I entered into my contract with the Clippers as well as the agreements in question in good faith, fully committed to fulfilling my obligations and with no knowledge of any intent on anyone’s part to circumvent the salary cap. For 15 years, my priority has been giving everything to my family, the game, and those I share the court with. As I return to Toronto, I am focused on what I can control, closing this chapter, and moving forward with a clean slate.”

When Bob Dylan first heard folk singer Karen Dalton sing in the early 1960s, who knew he was listening to a true original? Though Dalton never became a household name, she had a haunting, bluesy voice that stopped other singers in their tracks—including Dylan, who was one of her biggest admirers.

Karen Dalton met Bob Dylan during both singers’ early years in the 1960s folk scene, when they were both trying to find their way in Greenwich Village. In Chronicles: Volume One, Dylan had high praise for Dalton, writing that she had a voice like Billie Holiday and played guitar like Jimmy Reed.

@dimestoreradio

Remembering Karen J. Dalton (July 19, 1937 – March 19, 1993) She was an American folk blues singer, guitarist, and banjo player. She was associated with the early 1960s Greenwich Village folk music scene, particularly with Fred Neil, the Holy Modal Rounders, and Bob Dylan. Although she did not enjoy much commercial success during her lifetime, her music has gained significant recognition since her death. Dalton was born Jean Karen Cariker in Bonham, Texas, but was raised in Enid, Oklahoma. She also lived in Stillwater, Oklahoma and Lawrence, Kansas.  With two divorces behind her at the age of 21, Dalton left Oklahoma and arrived in Greenwich Village, New York City in the early 1960s. She brought her twelve string guitar, long-neck banjo, and at least one of her two children with her. And according to her daughter Abralyn Baird, at that point Dalton had lost two of her bottom teeth breaking up a fight between two of her boyfriends. In later years, Dalton lived in a mobile home located in a clearing off Eagle’s Nest Road, outside the town of Hurley, near Woodstock. She died there in March 1993 from an AIDS-related illness, aged 55. According to her friend Peter Walker, she had been living with the disease for more than eight years.(Wiki) Karen Dalton, ‘It Hurts Me Too’ for a French TV short film, ‘Unknowns of Manhattan’ in 1969. #karendalton #folk #folkmusic #folksinger #dimestoreradio

♬ original sound – Dime Store Radio

Even more striking, Bob Dylan called Karen Dalton his absolute favorite vocalist. Dalton never achieved mainstream success and wasn’t a polished pop star or someone with a string of hits, making Dylan’s praise even more meaningful. Karen Dalton was the kind of vocalist who made other singers stop and take notice. Dylan knew she had something special: an unusual, weathered voice unlike any other.

Related: 2007 Sara Bareilles Song, Written When Record Label ‘Asked for a Hit,’ Became a Timeless Radio Favorite

Bob Dylan Recognized Karen Dalton’s Unique Voice

Karen Dalton would eventually perform alongside Bob Dylan and folk singer Fred Neil before moving part-time to Boulder, Colorado, becoming part of a community of musicians connected to both cities’ folk scenes.

But it was Dylan’s support that gave Karen Dalton a level of credibility she never received from the mainstream music business.

Dalton had a voice that was difficult to categorize. Her singing could sound fragile, weathered and deeply emotional, yet there was an unmistakable strength behind it. She brought an intimacy to the songs she performed that made them feel as though she were singing directly to the listener.

Karen Dalton Recorded Very Little Music @storiesbehindthesongs

Bob Dylan’s Favorite Singer… That Nobody Heard Karen Dalton, Bob Dylan, forgotten singer, folk music 1970s, Greenwich Village folk scene, underrated artists, singer songwriter story, lost music legends, haunting voice, Something On Your Mind, In My Own Time album, music history stories, Stories Behind the Songs kkarenDaltonbbobdylanffolkmusicsingersongwriter #underratedartists She had one of the most haunting voices of her generation… and almost no one heard it. Bob Dylan called her one of the greatest. She only released two albums… then disappeared. Now her music is quietly finding its way back.

♬ original sound – storiesbehindthesongs

Karen Dalton recorded very little. She had been part of the music scene for years before her debut album, It’s So Hard to Tell Who’s Going to Love You the Best, arrived in 1969.

She released just one more album, the aptly titled In My Own Time, in 1971.

Dalton never seemed particularly interested in becoming a mainstream star, and her reluctance to conform to the music industry only added to her mystique. While other performers were building careers around hit records and carefully crafted public images, Dalton remained fiercely committed to her own artistic identity.

Bob Dylan, meanwhile, would go on to become one of the most influential singer-songwriters in American history. His early recognition of Dalton’s talent is a reminder that some of music’s most extraordinary vocalists don’t necessarily achieve worldwide fame.

Karen Dalton Became a Cult Favorite

Karen Dalton eventually achieved a sort of cult status among other musicians, thanks to her emotionally haunting voice and her unwillingness to become a mainstream artist.

She died in 1993 at the age of 55, but her music has continued to find new audiences decades later.

Artists including Nick Cave and Vanessa Carlton have spoken emphatically about Dalton’s influence, describing her as a powerful force who held onto her own artistic point of view.

Her music continues to reach new listeners through streaming platforms and classic folk and rock playlists, giving her recordings a second life and introducing a new generation to the singer Dylan admired so much.

But more than 60 years ago, Bob Dylan recognized Karen Dalton’s unique talent.

The rest of the world is finally catching up.

Related: Dolly Parton, Emmylou Harris and Linda Ronstadt Delivered One of the Most Flawless Harmonies Ever Covering a Neil Young Classic

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

A former NFL player and college football star for Wake Forest University has died at 40 years old in Florida.

Per TMZ, Alphonso Smith Jr. played four seasons in the league — first with the Denver Broncos, followed by three more seasons with the Detroit Lions after being traded.

Drafted in the second round, the high-school All-American athlete fulfilled his dreams as the 37th pick in the NFL draft for the 2009 season after a stellar college tenure.

The standout defensive back only played a handful of games in his up-and-down final season, as it’s long been said that “NFL” really should stand for “Not For Long” as the average career surprisingly spans only 3.3 years.

Smith Jr. earned more than $4 million from his rookie contract, signing a four-year, $4.08 million deal with the Broncos after being drafted in 2009. His pro football career came to an end following the 2012 season.

Today marks a sad day for Smith’s family, friends and fans, as the former cornerback reportedly died by suicide Wednesday in Florida. His final Facebook post addressed his struggles.

Related: Suicide Prevention: How You Can Make a Difference

In the post, Smith wrote, “Do not cry for me! I tried everything in my power to fight the demons behind the ones that someone put into ME! I did not want to be that WAY! I know I have disappointed so many folks. This is a DEMON in me! But not only me! It’s EVERYONE! I have HURT so many! I needed help & did not get it!”

He went on to apologize for his actions, ending the post with, “I am SORRY! THIS IS IT!”

Rest in peace, Alphonso.

If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide or struggling with suicidal thoughts, help is available 24 hours a day through the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.

Dolly Parton kept much of what was happening with her health out of the public eye before her death. Now her niece Jada Star is shedding some light on why.

One week after the country music legend died at age 80 following a brief battle with cancer, Star spoke to Extra about her family’s loss and the privacy surrounding Parton’s health struggles.

“You know, we kind of kept all that stuff real private and so she never wanted to worry anybody,” Star said when asked whether Parton’s second hospitalization had come as a shock. “So I think it was just a shock on Tuesday.”

Parton’s cancer diagnosis was not publicly revealed before her death on August 25, and her representatives only confirmed afterward that she had faced a “brief battle with cancer.” The specific type of cancer has not been disclosed.

While Parton had acknowledged experiencing health problems, she remained upbeat. In May, she revealed that her immune and digestive systems had gotten “all out of whack” over the previous three years. She was later hospitalized and acknowledged that she had neglected some of her own health while caring for her husband, Carl Dean, before his March 2025 death.

READ MORE: Eminem Shares Emotional Dolly Parton Tribute — and Reveals Her Unexpected Message That Had a Lasting Impact on Him

Even as her health declined, Parton remained focused on her work—something Star believes her aunt would expect the family to do now, too. “She would also tell us to start drying it up and start trying to get back to work and love each other real hard,” Star said, becoming emotional.

Star, who is also a singer-songwriter herself, reflected on the advice Parton gave her throughout her life, including one question that stuck with her: “Why are you worried about what other people think?”

Star said she relied on those words while recently participating in a Grand Ole Opry tribute to her aunt and plans to carry Parton’s influence into her own writing and teaching.

When asked what she would tell Parton if she had one more opportunity, Star again became emotional. “I think I would just say thank you so much. And I love you so much,” she said. “And I know you’re OK.”

Related: Jane Fonda Fights Back Tears While Revealing the Important Lesson Dolly Parton Taught Her

Southwest Airlines is going where Southwest Airlines has never gone before—the airport lounge.

The airline, once known for its no-frills business model, has been rapidly undergoing a facelift in recent years. After ditching its unique open-seating model and its two free checked bags policy, the airline announced it will be making a splash with its first-ever airport lounges beginning in 2027.

Southwest Airlines announced a partnership with Chase—known for their luxury Chase Sapphire Reserve Lounges—to create a premium and welcoming airport experience, the company announced on Wednesday, September 2.

Construction in underway at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport, Daniel K. Inouye (Honolulu) International Airport, and Nashville International Airport, with grand openings slated for late 2027. Seven other airport lounges are planned for opening over the next several years.

“Southwest Airlines has built one of the most trusted brands in travel1 by delivering authentic Hospitality that Customers value. Our lounges will be a natural extension of that experience, offering Customers a place to relax and experience the Southwest brand in a new way,” Tony Roach, Executive Vice President, Chief Customer & Brand Officer at Southwest Airlines, said on Wednesday. “The introduction of a lounge network represents a strategic investment in Rapid Rewards and deepens our 30-year partnership with Chase.”

Travelers will need to obtain a premium, Southwest Rapid Rewards® Credit Card issued by Chase in order to gain access to the upcoming lounges. The new credit card is set to debut in 2027.